Delta rallies stakeholders to defend threatened Aeromexico joint venture
Delta Air Lines has assembled a wide coalition of businesses, trade groups, lawmakers and governors in opposition to a US government decision that stands to force Delta and Aeromexico to end their joint business.
Canada highlights arctic aviation capability with far-northern drills
During a series of exercises known as Operation Nanook-Nunalivut, the Royal Canadian Air Force highlighted its ability to deliver ground forces and equipment on missions in high latitudes.
Airbus A220 workers orchestrate work slowdown in Mirabel amid contract dispute
Unionised assembly workers and other technicians at Airbus’s A220 manufacturing site near Montreal are orchestrating work disruptions after voting down an employment contract proposed by the manufacturer.
HA-420 landed fast and long in excessive crosswind before damaging excursion
US investigators have disclosed that a Honda Aircraft HA-420 light executive jet was travelling above reference speed, and attempting to land in gusts above crosswind limits when it suffered a damaging excursion at Houston’s William Hobby airport.
US Navy takes delivery of first MQ-25 autonomous refueller
Marking the receipt of the service’s first-ever carrier-based without a pilot, the US Navy accepted delivery of the first MQ-25 Stingray tanker jet from Boeing.
Miami maintenance firm personnel sold falsely-certified parts to Canadian carriers
Representatives of a Florida-based aircraft maintenance company have pleaded guilty to charges relating to distributing parts with falsified documentation to Canadian airlines.
Airlines candid on Boeing concerns
Good weeks have been few and far between at Boeing for some time, but the past few days have proven particularly challenging as the airframer works to move beyond its various issues.
Air Transat seeks to offset capacity lost due to PW1100G engine problems
Its fleet beset by grounded Airbus A321LRs needing work on their Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan (GTF) engines, Canadian airline company Transat AT is adding both newly leased and previously ordered aircraft to partially offset the lost capacity.
Delta to revive flights to Tel Aviv amid ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict
Major US carrier Delta Air Lines plans to revive daily flights to Tel Aviv from New York this summer, becoming the latest airline to indicate interest in resuming operations amid the war between Israel and Hamas.
Canada prepares $630m airfield upgrades as part of tanker acquisition
Improvements to runways and hangar facilities will support Ottawa’s planned fleet of nine Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport jets.
US Air Force cuts fighter acquisition goals for 2025
In its fiscal year 2025 budget request, the US Air Force reveals it plans to acquire fewer F-15EXs, temporarily slow the pace of F-35 purchases and spend billions of dollars developing a sixth-generation fighter and autonomous jets to support the new platform.
Court filing lists nearly 30 737s as part of IAero asset sale linked to US carrier Eastern
Court filings have revealed that US operator IAero Airways – which is under US bankruptcy protection – is pursuing an asset-sale agreement involving an entity linked with carrier Eastern Airlines.
Alaska rebounds after taking $150m hit from 737 Max 9 grounding
US carrier Alaska Airlines estimates the grounding of its Boeing 737 Max 9s following the 5 January door plug blow-out on flight 1282 resulted in lost profits of at least $150 million.
’Vertical-lift crossover’ developer XTI Aerospace listed on US stock exchange
Colorado-based XTI Aerospace on 13 March began trading as a publicly listed company on the US stock exchange, vowing to commercialise its conceptual “vertical-lift crossover” business aircraft.
Canada’s Nolinor reveals fresh livery on 737-400 repurposed for mining industry
Canadian charter carrier Nolinor Aviation has adorned its first Boeing 737-400 with an update of its distinctive blue, white and gold livery.
Boeing confirms to NTSB it has no records of work on failed 737 Max door plug
Boeing confirms to federal accident investigators it has no records of work completed last year on a 737 Max 9 door plug that failed during a 5 January flight, nor does it know which employees performed the work.
Second AviaAM 777-300ER transferred for Mammoth freighter conversion
Irish-based AviaAM Leasing has transferred a second Boeing 777-300ER for cargo conversion by US-based Mammoth Freighters.
Pentagon declares full-rate production on F-35, years behind schedule
The US Department of Defense has approved Lockheed Martin for full-rate production on the F-35 stealth fighter programme, years behind schedule and well after the airframer had already started assembling the jets at maximum capacity.
Frontier to create new cabin class by blocking middle seat in first two rows
US ultra-discounter Frontier Airlines is again taking cues from European carriers by guaranteeing open middle seats in the two front rows of all its aircraft.
Boeing steps up quality inspections as part of initial response to two concerning safety audits
The chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes has laid out initial steps the company is taking to address quality and safety concerns raised by two recent investigations into its 737 Max assembly site in Renton.
GE Aerospace targets production and quality improvements with $650m investment
GE Aerospace plans to spend $650 million this year on efforts to boost quality and production at its sites and those of suppliers, more than twice the $335 million it spent on similar projects last year.
Boeing MH-139 nuclear security helicopter begins operational service
An operational US Air Force unit has for the first time received one of the new Grey Wolf helicopters which will replace the Bell UH-1N in supporting physical security at the service’s nuclear-armed intercontinental ballistic missile silos.
‘Boeing needs to become a better company’: Southwest CEO
Boeing’s 737 Max delivery delays have drawn sharp criticism from Southwest Airlines’ chief executive Bob Jordan, who described on 12 March the carrier’s highly constrained 2024 growth plan.
Canada retires Hawk jet trainers without replacements identified
The Royal Canadian Air Force says its fighter training squadron has entered a “period of hiatus” after the service retired its fleet of BAE Systems CT-155 Hawk trainer jets.
Boeing’s 737 deliveries slowed in February as investigators scrutinised operation
Boeing’s pace of 737 Max deliveries slowed again in February amid intense scrutiny over product quality, though the company succeeded last month in accelerating narrowbody deliveries to customers in China, a country that had been essentially closed to new 737s until recently.
United considering A321neo order as 737 Max 10 certification stalls
United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby acknowledges that the US carrier is considering a potential order of Airbus A321neos to replace the Boeing 737 Max 10 aircraft it no longer expects to be delivered.
Tax bump on private jet fuel included in USA’s proposed budget for 2025
US president Joe Biden’s proposed budget for 2025 includes increased taxes on fuel for private jets, which the administration has identified as a potential source of funding the National Airspace System (NAS).
GE Aerospace predicts booming profits as Leap deliveries and service work accelerate
GE Aerospace has big plans for the coming years, predicting that demand for engine aftermarket services combined with accelerating new-engine deliveries will push its adjusted operating profit to $10 billion by 2028, up from $5.6 billion in 2023.
Five killed as Gulfstream G100 crashes in rural Virginia
A twin-engine Gulstream G100 was on short approach to Ingalls Field airport outside of Hot Springs, Virginia when it struck trees and crashed into a hillside.
New Leap turbofans are getting fuel nozzle fix and modified blades as part of durability effort: GE Aerospace
GE Aerospace has introduced improved fuel nozzles for CFM International Leap turbofans and expects by year-end to introduce fixed high-pressure turbine blades – efforts to address durability problems with its best-selling engines.
Stratolaunch completes first powered flight of hypersonic test vehicle
While the first Talon-A flight did not break the Mach 5 hypersonic barrier, Stratolaunch says the vehicle achieved high supersonic speed before executing a planned water landing.
FAA releases final guidelines for type certification of Joby’s air taxi
In a first for the US air taxi segment, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued final airworthiness criteria for Joby Aviation’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Eve’s spending on electric air taxi development doubled in 2023
US air taxi developer Eve Air Mobility doubled its research and development spending in 2023, compared with the previous year.
Former Global Crossing chief to start up Florida-based A220 operator
Just weeks after leaving his post as chief executive of US operator Global Crossing Airlines, Ed Wegel has revealed plans to start a new carrier operating Airbus A220s.
United 737 Max 8 runs off taxiway in Houston
A United Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 ran off the taxiway on 8 March after landing at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental airport, coming to rest with a wing tilting into the grass.
Pentagon to resume Osprey flights, despite unanswered questions around fatal crash
Although the US military now knows what caused the fatal crash of a Bell-Boeing V-22 tiltrotor last November, the airworthiness authority for the type still does not know why the deadly failure occurred, even as it plans to restart flight operations.
Bristow details S-92 woes and outlines AW189 fleet growth
Bristow Group sees the spare parts shortages afflicting the Sikorsky S-92 lasting until at least the end of the year and is increasingly looking to other helicopter types for its future capacity requirements.
Lagging Asia-Pacific leaves global airline traffic just short of 2019 levels
That the global airline industry is able to record a 17% year on year rise in passenger traffic for January 2024 and still be just below 2019 levels is a reminder of how nascent some aspects of its Covid-19 recovery are.
GE Aerospace advances open-fan engine development, insists design will see service
GE Aerospace has started testing key components of its in-development open-fan engine, and executives still insist the fuel-efficient design will find its way on future narrowbody passenger jets.
United 777 diverts after losing tire on take-off
A United Airlines Boeing 777-200 diverted from its route to Japan after losing a tire on take-off from San Francisco International airport.
Cold-soaked servo could have led to ‘stuck’ rudder pedals on United 737 Max 8
Rudder pedals that became stuck in neutral position during the landing of a Boeing 737 Max 8 operated by United Airlines may have been related to a cold-soaked rudder roll-out guidance servo.
GlobalX trims projected 2026 fleet to 35 from 50 jets
After pursuing an aggressive early growth strategy, US start-up carrier Global Crossing Airlines has cooled off on its ambitious fleet-expansion plans.
Boeing may have ‘no documentation to share’ about 737 Max 9 door plug removal
Boeing has suggested it has no documentation related to its removal and re-installation of the 737 Max 9 door plug that failed during a 5 January flight, while insisting it is fully cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) investigation.
Canada takes delivery of new King Air 350ER-based surveillance aircraft
Under the Manned Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance project, L3Harris will modify three Beechcraft King Air 350ER turboprops with mission packages for service with the Royal Canadian Air Force under the designation CE-145C Vigilance.
NTSB chair slams Boeing for failing to supply information about failed door plug
The head of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has slammed Boeing for failing to provide investigators with basic information as part of the agency’s inquiry into the 5 January in-flight failure of a 737 Max 9’s door plug.
Envoy planning to add 12 more E175s starting in 2025
American Airlines’ regional subsidiary Envoy Air is planning to take an additional 12 large regional jets, with the first of the aircraft due for delivery in 2025.
Big three US airlines again delay resumption of further China flights
The three largest US airlines are pushing back until at least late October the resumption of many flights to China that they cut early during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ethiopian commits to purchase eight Boeing 777-9s
Ethiopian Airlines has committed to purchase eight Boeing 777-9s as part of a deal that could see the Addis Ababa-based carrier take a further 12 aircraft.
Ampaire acquires glider-inspired electric ‘aerotowing’ start-up Magpie Aviation
Hybrid-electric propulsion developer Ampaire has acquired glider-inspired start-up Magpie Aviation, which has worked to enable long-range electric flights with towing systems.
American’s 85-strong Max 10 order includes ‘financial protections’ against delivery delays
Acknowledging that American Airlines’ order for an additional 85 Boeing 737 Max 10s is a “vote of confidence in Boeing”, airline executives say financial protections are built into the deal should the aerospace giant stumble further.
Canada to sunset leased King Air fleet in favour of air force modernisations
The Royal Canadian Air Force is declining to renew leases on two Beechcraft King Air transports, with Ottawa saying the savings will be used to support a sweeping modernisation plan for the service.
American Airlines orders 260 narrowbody and regional jets in huge boost to fleet plan
American Airlines has placed orders for 260 new aircraft, including those produced by Airbus, Boeing and Embraer, with deliveries expected to begin later this decade.
SkyWest adds another 20 Embraer E175s to United fleet
SkyWest Airlines will add another 20 aircraft to fly under contract for United Airlines by the end of this year.
Scrapping of recovered Emtrasur 747 irks Venezuelan government
Venezuela’s government has condemned the scrapping of a Boeing 747-300M following its retrieval by US authorities from Buenos Aires, where the jet had been impounded nearly two years.
AAR snaps up Triumph’s maintenance and repair business for $725m
Aircraft maintenance provider AAR has acquired aerospace company Triumph Group’s aircraft maintenance and repair business for $725 million, marking another in a string divestitures by Triumph.
Boeing confirms it is in talks to acquire Spirit but analysts are sceptical
Boeing confirms it has interest in acquiring 737 fuselage maker Spirit AeroSystems, a move some industry experts think could help the US aircraft manufacturer finally address troubles at its largest supplier.
United expects 102 fewer aircraft deliveries in 2024
United Airlines expects Boeing to deliver 102 fewer aircraft in 2024 than contractually agreed, forcing the airline to recalculate its fleet plan and delivery expectations in the coming years.
Board approval sets up GE to become standalone aerospace company on 2 April
General Electric’s board of directors has approved a plan to spin off energy business Vernova on 2 April, setting up GE to become a standalone aviation company named GE Aerospace on that date.
Boeing lands $3.4 billion contract for Canadian, German P-8As
Boeing has secured a $3.4 billion production contract from the US Navy covering P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft for Canada and Germany.
NTSB revises accident report to remove blaming Tamarack for 2018 crash
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revised a 2021 accident report to remove a conclusion that Tamarack Aerospace’s Atlas active winglets caused a deadly Cessna Citation 525 crash in 2018.
Spike NLOS missile on target for US Army fielding this year
The US Army will begin fielding Rafael’s Spike NLOS long-range air-to-surface missile with its Boeing AH-64E Apache fleet later this year, following the recent completion of qualification testing.
Kaman readies uncrewed ‘Kargo’ quadcopter for front-line logistics
Kaman’s fully autonomous cargo aircraft is designed to meet the challenges of rapidly changing battlefield logistics.
Icon ups A5’s gross weight and range with new four-blade prop
Icon Aircraft has increased the gross weight of its A5 light sport aircraft, allowing new-build A5s to carry more fuel and giving the type 2h more flight endurance.
United adds former Walgreens CEO Rosalind Brewer to board
United Airlines has added Rosalind Brewer, former chief executive of retail pharmacy and healthcare company Walgreens Boots Alliance, to its board of directors.
FAA gives Boeing 90 days to submit quality improvement plan
The Federal Aviation Administration has given Boeing a 90-day deadline to submit a plan detailing how it intends to address quality-control concerns recently identified by FAA investigators and by a separate safety review panel.
Tru Simulation merges virtual reality with ‘tactile feel’ of cockpit controls
Seeking to package the capabilities of a full flight simulator into a compact design, Tru Simulation + Training has unveiled a virtual reality-augmented system called the Veris VR Flight Simulator.
Sikorsky ‘not confined to rotor blades’ as it unveils tiltwing Hex demonstrator
Sikorsky has shared its vision for a hybrid-electic tiltwing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft called Hex.
American Airlines sides with US DOT in Delta-Aeromexico JV spat
American Airlines has spoken out against Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico’s opposition to a US Department of Transportation (DOT) ruling that would force the two carriers to unwind their seven-year collaboration.
Phenix rises for ‘dirty, dull and dangerous’ missions with newly unveiled Ultra 2XL
Uncrewed aircraft developer Phenix Solutions has unveiled a full-sized prototype of its remotely piloted heavy-lift rotorcraft at the Heli-Expo show in Anaheim.
Universal completes first test of fuel-cell powertrain mated to its liquid-hydrogen ‘modules’
Universal Hydrogen has run its hydrogen-fuel-cell propulsion system on hydrogen supplied from one of its proprietary storage tanks, a milestone the company says helps demonstrate the feasibility of its hydrogen-powered regional aircraft concept.
Archer CEO wants to ditch ‘eVTOL’ label and revive ‘flying car’
Archer Aviation chief executive Adam Goldstein is embracing the term “flying car”, which had for decades been used to describe futuristic personal aircraft but has since fallen from favour.
New report flags ongoing safety gaps within Boeing
A detailed new report alleges that numerous safety gaps still exist within Boeing, including unclear safety-related processes, safety culture disconnects and concerns about the company’s self-oversight system.
Allegiant and Viva Aerobus urge US DOT to resume review of proposed alliance
Las Vegas-based Allegiant Air and Mexico’s VivaAerobus have requested the US Department of Transportation (DOT) reinstate the procedural schedule pertaining to approval of an alliance between the two ultra-low-cost carriers.
Delta and Aeromexico slam US DOT for ‘arbitrary’ cancellation of joint business
Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico call the US government’s planned termination of their joint cooperation agreement (JCA) “arbitrary, misdirected, discriminatory and ineffectual” in a new filing protesting the move.
Air Canada caps fares and adds seats to help Lynx passengers
Air Canada will cap fares and add 6,000 seats in “select markets” to assist passengers in the wake Lynx Air’s pending cessation of operations.
Lynx owes Indigo C$124m amid insolvency due to Max grounding and pandemic: court papers
Canadian start-up carrier Lynx Air attributes its descent into insolvency to factors including the grounding of Boeing’s 737 Max, Covid-19 travel restrictions and surging fuel prices.
Canada’s Chorus turns C$106 million profit in 2023 as all segments remain strong
Canada’s Chorus Aviation said its 2023 profit more than doubled year on year to C$106 million as all three segments of the company posted gains.
Unapproved parts scandal spurs creation of aerospace supply-chain task force
Airframers and engine suppliers, as well as other representatives of the aerospace industry, have established a joint organisation intended to tackle the problem of unapproved parts.
Can Boeing steady the ship after bumpy start to 2024?
It is clear that Boeing needs to do something to turn around its fortunes, but exactly what that something should be remains a subject of debate among the people who follow and work with the US aerospace giant.
Lynx Air to cease operations due to high costs and stiff competition
Canadian start-up carrier Lynx Air is ceasing operations on 26 February, citing financial pressure in the highly competitive low-cost segment.
Boeing attorney Amuluru to succeed D’Ambrose as human resources chief
Boeing corporate attorney Uma Amuluru, a former White House counsel, will succeed Michael D ’Ambrose as the company’s chief human resource officer, effective on 1 April.
JetBlue expects average of 11 grounded aircraft due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues: CFO
JetBlue Airways expects to have an average of 11 Airbus narrowbody aircraft grounded during 2024 due to inspections of the jets’ Pratt & Whitney PW1100G geared turbofan (GTF) engines.
American to launch daily flights between JFK and Tokyo Haneda in June
American Airlines will become the only US carrier to connect New York and Tokyo when it launches daily flights to the Japanese city in June.
Wisk eyeing potential air taxi operations in greater Houston area
The California-based start-up has an agreement with the city of Sugar Land, Texas to develop autonomous air taxi services in the Houston area.
Joby completes third of five-stage FAA type certification process
US advanced air mobility company Joby says it’s completed the third of the Federal Aviation Administration’s five-stage type certification process as it reports a 2023 full-year loss of $513 million.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes shakes up management to ‘enhance focus’ on quality
Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) has made some management changes in the wake of numerous recent quality issues that have affected its airframes and cast a shadow over the US airframer.
Boeing nears delivery of first combat-configuration F-15EXs
Boeing has already delivered six examples of the latest F-15 variant to the US Air Force in an operational test configuration, with tail numbers seven and eight marking the first combat-configured aircraft.
USAF teases export potential for future autonomous fighters
Speaking at the Singapore air show, the top procurement official for the US Air Force said subsequent versions of the autonomous fighter aircraft currently being developed could be eligible for sale to overseas customers.
United to rely on Boeing 737 Max 9s as it awaits Max 10 certification: CFO
United Airlines will rely more on its Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet as the US airframer is having trouble delivering on other Max variants, including the yet-to-be certificated higher-gauge Max 10.
Breeze firms 10 Airbus A220 orders and will be profitable in 2024: CEO
Start-up carrier Breeze Airways has converted 10 Airbus A220-300 options to firm orders as the three-year old company is anticipated to be profitable for the first time in 2024.
Canadian ultra-low-cost carriers Lynx and Flair to combine: reports
Canadian media have reported that two of the country’s ultra-low-cost carriers – Lynx and Flair Airlines – are on the cusp of announcing a merger.
Hawaiian’s shareholders accept Alaska’s $1.9bn takeover bid
Hawaiian Holdings’ shareholders have voted to accept the $1.9 billion acquisition offer from Alaska Air Group.
A320 wake turbulence triggered SR22’s fatal in-flight upset
US investigators believe wake turbulence from a landing Airbus A320 caused a trailing Cirrus SR22 to suffer a fatal in-flight upset on approach to Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson airport.
BAE Systems completes $4.8bn acquisition of Ball Aerospace
BAE Systems has completed its acquisition of Ball Aerospace, with the move further strengthening its US business presence.
JetBlue expands board to accommodate two Icahn designees
US budget carrier JetBlue Airways is to expand its board and appoint two directors nominated by entrepreneur Carl Icahn, following his acquisition of a near-10% share in the airline.
FAA proposal targets 787 anti-ice system overheating risk
As Boeing works to address engine anti-ice issues with its 737 Max, the Federal Aviation Administration now says it is taking steps to address risks associated with the anti-ice system on 787s.
Air Canada turned profitable in 2023 on international travel growth
Canada’s flag carrier is optimistic about international travel in 2024 amid stagnant growth of its domestic-Canadian operation
Hawaiian takes delivery of first of 12 Boeing 787s
The airline’s first 787-9 arrived in Honolulu on 14 February after a delivery flight from Boeing’s 787 production facility in Charleston, South Carolina.
Canada grounds some PT6-powered aircraft due to blade-failure risk affecting up to 180 engines
Transport Canada has ordered operators to ground aircraft powered by some Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) PT6 turboprops pending turbine blade replacements, a move coming in response to failures of three second-stage power turbine blades.
Collins preparing to test ACES 5 ejection seat for F-15E integration
The latest combat ejection seat from Collins will provide generational improvements to the company’s Cold War-era ACES II system, which is featured in numerous fighter and bomber aircraft.
Nearly $1bn directed toward improving 114 US airports
President Joe Biden’s administration on February 15 indicated that it is awarding some $970 million for improvements to airports in 44 states across the USA.
Porter plans trio of new E195-E2 crew bases across Canada
Canada’s Porter Airlines is launching a trio of crew bases staffed with a total of 350 employees to support its growing Embraer 195-E2 operations.
Separate 737 Max engine anti-ice system issue prompts FAA action
The Federal Aviation Administration has taken action to address another issue involving the anti-ice system on Boeing’s 737 Max, after Boeing notified the regulator that a fault could render the system inoperative.
Atlanta retains biggest airport crown as passengers pass 100m mark again in 2023
Passenger numbers at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International airport increased almost 12% in 2023 to reach 104.7 million, ensuring the Delta Air Lines hub will retain its position as the busiest airport in the world.
Allies conclude Spears of Victory air power exercise in Saudi Arabia
The annual Saudi Arabian-hosted Spears of Victory exercise drew to a close on 15 February, with the activity having involved more than 60 aircraft from nine nations.
Surf Air secures 90 early deliveries of Electra’s hybrid-electric aircraft
A pair of US start-ups with plans to electrify regional aviation are partnering to bring their emerging low-emissions technologies to a “broad customer base”.
US Army to pursue full-rate production deal with Boeing for Block II Chinooks
As part of a wide-reaching shift in its aviation strategy, the US Army will enter into negotiations with Boeing to acquire the latest version of the CH-47F heavy-lift helicopter.
United dials up effort to secure Hawaiian’s forfeited Haneda slot
United Airlines is requesting the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to “immediately grant” the carrier’s uncontested application for a soon-to-be-vacated slot at Tokyo’s Haneda airport.
Smaller airframers concerned over scope of 25h cockpit-voice recorder proposal
Manufacturers of regional and business aircraft have expressed various concerns about the US FAA proposal to fit 25h cockpit-voice recorders to all newly-manufactured models.
PHI prepares for H160 route-proving trials
Airbus Helicopters and US operator PHI are preparing for the start of route-proving flights in the Gulf of Mexico using the airframer’s new H160 medium-twin.
Merlin to develop autonomous KC-135 flight capabilities with USAF
Autonomous flight technology company Merlin has an agreement with the United States Air Force (USAF) to work toward uncrewed operations of the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker.
Boeing clarifies that 737 suppliers are running at 38-monthly rate, but not Boeing itself
A Boeing executive has clarified that the company’s actual 737 production rate is less than the 38-per-month rate cited by Boeing chief executive David Calhoun in January.
BAE to provide additional electronic warfare packages for new Compass Call aircraft
Based on a Gulfstream G550 business jet and bearing the designation EA-37B, the electronic warfare aircraft will replace the previous EC-130 Compass Call platform that was based on a cargo transport.
Canada’s Nolinor Aviation re-introduces 737-200 for gravel runway operations
Canadian charter airline Nolinor Aviation has re-introduced a Boeing 737-200 optmised for gravel runways that it plans to use in austere far-northern operating environments.
Boeing ended January with no net new aircraft orders for the month as aircraft delivery pace slows
Air Europa and an unidentified customer cancelled orders for three Boeing jets in January, and the company’s deliveries slipped to only 27 aircraft during the month.
US authorities retrieve sanction-linked Emtrasur 747-300M from Buenos Aires
US authorities have retrieved an Emtrasur Boeing 747-300M freighter which had been impounded in Argentina nearly two years ago, over allegations that it had been engaged in conduct prohibited by sanctions.
JetBlue reveals 9.9% shareholding acquired by entrepreneur Icahn
US operator JetBlue Airways has disclosed that entrepreneur Carl Icahn has picked up a 9.91% shareholding in the budget carrier.
Pratt & Whitney on track to field F-35 engine upgrade by 2029
Despite ongoing budgetary uncertainty in Washington, engine maker Pratt & Whitney says its F-35 Engine Core Upgrade programme remains on schedule, with a projected entry into service by 2029.
Crashed Challenger’s pilot told controller both engines lost thrust on approach
Air-ground radio communications from the Bombardier Challenger 604 which crashed on a Florida highway indicate the aircraft lost thrust in both engines moments beforehand.
Delta asks US to reconsider decision to break up joint venture with Aeromexico
Delta Air Lines is urging the US government to reverse a January order requiring it and Aeromexico wind down their joint venture, saying the airlines played no part in a decision based on a treaty dispute.
Five people aboard business jet during crash on South Florida interstate
A Bombardier Challenger 604 business jet crashed on Interestate 75 near Naples, Florida on 9 February with five people aboard.
Spirit AeroSystems aims to bring more technology to the 737’s manual-centric fuselage production process
Spirit AeroSystems intends to automate some aspects of its Boeing 737 Max fuselage production in a bid to improve quality, though the decades-old design of the narrowbody jet will limit the degree of modernisation available.
Loose part found in cowling of Atlas Air 747 after in-flight engine fire
US investigators found a loose component in the engine cowling of the Atlas Air Boeing 747-8 involved in an in-flight engine fire during a 18 January fight from Miami International airport.
Naval Osprey variant unsuitable for carrier delivery role: Pentagon report
An assessment from the defence official overseeing operational testing and evaluation describes the Bell-Boeing CMV-22 tiltrotor as unsuitable for replacing the Northrop Grumman C-2A Greyhound on carrier-resupply missions.
Spirit AeroSystems closing in on new financial terms with Airbus
Spirit AeroSystems aims before the end of February to secure a revised supply agreement with Airbus, in an effort to help turn around loss-making production programmes.
Costs still in sharp focus for USA’s short-haul carriers
The recent suggestion from Wizz Air chief executive Jozsef Varadi that short-haul air travel “is a cost game, not a revenue game” has pertinence beyond that airline’s markets.
US Army cancels next-generation FARA scout helicopter
Citing a resource-constrained environment, the US Army is opting to invest more into existing rotary aviation platforms, walking away from the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) programme, on which billions of dollars were spent to build two flightworthy prototypes.
Senate committee rejects raising mandatory US pilot retirement age
A US Senate committee has voted down a measure in the Federal Aviation Administration’s five-year spending reauthorisation bill that would have raised the mandatory pilot retirement age from 65 to 67 years old.
Porter Airlines names Rob Palmer new finance chief
The Toronto-headquartered carrier said Palmer had joined the company as of 7 February, after most recently working as CFO of the Calgary Airport Authority.
Spirit pushes back on ‘misguided narrative’ about stability without JetBlue
Spirit Airlines executives maintain that the company has the financial resources necessary to succeed in the absence of a tie-up with JetBlue Airways.
Spirit Airlines lowers Q1 capacity expectations on GTF engine woes
Spirit Airlines has reduced its capacity forecast for the first quarter as the scope of its Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan (GTF) engine issues come into focus.
General Atomics reveals experimental XQ-67A uncrewed jet
The uncrewed aircraft manufacturer developed the new type, which it calls the XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station, in partnership with the US Air Force Research Laboratory.
Copa Airlines seeks ‘fair’ compensation from Boeing for Max 9 grounding
Copa Airlines executives say they are seeking “full and fair” compensation from Boeing for the three-week grounding of the 737 Max 9 in January.
Five fatalities confirmed in California crash of USMC helicopter
A Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing in San Diego crashed in a remote forest area while flying through the Southern California mountains during a winter storm.
GlobalX seeking new chief executive following Ed Wegel’s resignation
Global Crossing Airlines is searching for a new chief executive after the resignation of founding leader Ed Wegel.
Joby prototype lost propeller blade before 2022 crash: NTSB
One of Joby Aviation’s pre-production prototypes broke up mid-flight after losing a propeller blade during envelope-pushing flight-testing in February 2022.
Martin St George returns to JetBlue amid financial turbulence
JetBlue Airways is turning to a familiar figure during a turbulent period, appointing Martin St George president of the company, effective 26 February.
Archer assembling trio of Midnight aircraft for certification flights
US air taxi developer Archer Aviation has revealed that it is building a trio of Midnight aircraft that will conform to the company’s intended type design.
Missing USMC Super Stallion helicopter located in remote California forest
The Sikorsky CH-53E heavy-lift helicopter travelling through the southwestern USA from Nevada to California failed to arrive as planned at a Marine Corps air station in San Diego.
Unsecured SAS creditors accepted revised Chapter 11 plan after ‘hard-fought’ discussions
Unsecured creditors of SAS had been dissatisfied with a previous version of the carrier’s US Chapter 11 re-organisation plan, and agreed to the latest revision after “hard-fought” discussions, court filings show.
Piper unleashes Fury as M600 successor
US airframer Piper Aircraft has unveiled the M700 Fury – its fastest ever single-engined aircraft – a turboprop that boasts an uprated Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A engine that offers a maximum cruise speed of over 300kt (555km/h) and climb performance 34% better than its M600 SLS predecessor.
Boeing pushes delivery of fourth T-7A to February
Boeing has delayed the delivery of the US Air Force’s fourth new trainer jet after quality control checks found components supplied by a sub-contractor failed to meet the company’s standards.
Four bolts intended to secure Alaska Max 9’s door plugs were missing: NTSB
The four bolts intended to secure the door plug that failed on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 in January were missing at the time plug blew out, causing a rapid depressurisation.
FAA chief says agency needs more staff to better oversee certification
The Federal Aviation Administration needs more workers to bolster its oversight of companies like Boeing, to better evaluate aircraft certification programmes and to help improve runway safety at US airports.
Spirit AeroSystems lost $633m in 2023 as production troubles weighed on financials
Spirit AeroSystems hiked deliveries of aircraft structures in 2023 but still lost $633 million as it continues seeking to right money-losing programmes and address quality concerns.
Frontier to cut ‘unprofitable flying’ to core markets of Las Vegas and Orlando
Ultra-low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines plans to cut a third of its passenger capacity to a pair of its core leisure destinations – Las Vegas and Orlando – by summertime in the USA.
FAA warns lawmakers not to tamper with pilot retirement age
The Federal Aviation Administration has come down hard against efforts in Washington to raise the federally mandated retirement age for airline pilots.
Allegiant chief compares airline’s low-cost market to ‘private swim lane’
Amid intense competition in the North American low-cost segment, Allegiant Air is seeking separation from the pack by focusing on unique routes and flying primarily during peak air travel times.
Allegiant’s first 737 Max deliveries delayed until spring
Allegiant Travel Company is expecting another lengthy delay in the delivery of its first Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft amid further difficulties for Boeing’s next-generation narrowbody programme.
USAF special operations test air-launching small UAVs from MQ-9A
The recent demonstrations saw an Anduril Altius 600 deployed from a General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-9A Reaper while in flight, as the US Air Force seeks to expand its ability to operate in a contested environment.
Most Alaska and United Boeing 737 Max 9s back in the air: FAA
Nearly all of Alaska’s and United Airlines’ Boeing 737 Max 9s have returned to service a month after the rapid de-pressurisation of Alaska Airlines flight 1282 grounded most of that type of aircraft in the USA.
Operators of certain 777s instructed to replace control yoke force-limiters
Operators of Boeing 777s are being instructed to replace force-limiter components which could prevent a pilot’s control yoke being freed in the event of the other pilot’s yoke jamming.
MQ-20 launches ALE produced with additive manufacturing
A General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-20 Avenger unmanned air vehicle has conducted the in-flight release of an Advanced Air-Launched Effects (A2LE) platform that was produced via additive manufacturing.
SkyWest 2,000 pilots short of demand: CEO Chip Childs
SkyWest Airlines is benefiting from favourable trends in pilot training and retention but is still 2,000 pilots short of market demand.
SkyWest acquires partial ownership of US charter operator Contour Airlines
US regional carrier SkyWest Airlines has acquired partial ownership of Tennessee-based Part 135 operator Contour Airlines.
Honda Aircraft marks 250th delivery of ultra-light HA-420 HondaJet
Honda Aircraft recently delivered the 250th HA-420 HondaJet, a milestone coming about eight years after the type’s certification and as the company turns its attention to developing the larger HA-480 Echelon.
Sun Country Airlines undaunted by major industry disruptions: CEO Jude Bricker
Sun Country Airlines’ model of mixed operations – scheduled passenger, charter and cargo – is shielding it from many of the industry forces that are impacting other US carriers.
WestJet Dash 8 take-off abort triggered by mobile phone alarm
Canadian investigators have disclosed that an alarm which prompted a De Havilland Dash 8-400 to abort take-off was traced to a mobile phone.
Both engines of Allegiant A320 damaged during bird-strike on take-off
Both engines of an Allegiant Air Airbus A320 were damaged during a bird-strike on departure from Phoenix Mesa Gateway airport, the US FAA has disclosed.
Start-up Reliable Robotics receives approval for USAF flight-testing
Autonomous flight developer Reliable Robotics has secured “military airworthiness approval” to begin using its Cessna 208 Caravan to demonstrate the potential of pilotless flight to the US Air Force (USAF).
TAP Air Portugal pushes for fast-tracked codeshare extension with JetBlue
Star Alliance carrier TAP Air Portugal is asking US civil aviation regulators to fast-track an extension of its codeshare agreement with New York’s JetBlue Airways.
Boeing aims to offload most of its 250 undelivered 737s and 787s by year-end
Boeing ended 2023 with about 200 737 Max and 50 787s in its inventory of undelivered jets, and executives still expect the company will deliver most of those by the end of the year.
General Atomics completes first flight of modernised Gray Eagle
The first flight of Gray Eagle 25M focused on flight critical operations, including the testing of an improved flight computer, new heavy fuel engine and power generation systems.
US start-up carrier Avelo to establish operational base in Northern California
Avelo Airlines is planning to launch an operational base north of the San Francisco Bay Area – and close its base in Las Vegas.
Boeing needs up to 12 months to redesign anti-ice system prior to 737 Max certification
Boeing has provided new insight into when the 737 Max 7 might achieve certification, with executives saying they need another nine to 12 months to finish development of a fix to the type’s engine anti-ice system.
Beta completes USAF electric aircraft test deployment
During the three months of evaluations with the US Air Force, airframer start-up Beta says one of its all-electric Alia aircraft demonstrated its ability to support a range of operations, including casualty evacuation, logistics resupply and personnel transport.
Boeing is producing 38 737s and five 787s monthly but future rate changes unclear
Boeing is producing 737 Max at a rate of 38 monthly amid a cap on production expansion implemented this month by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Boeing lost $2.2 billion in 2023 amid fresh 737 Max scrutiny
Boeing lost $2.2 billion in 2023 as it continued seeking to stem vast losses from its commercial aircraft business, which faces ongoing quality troubles and fresh scrutiny from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Hawaiian still searching for profits as Japan recovery drags
US airline group Hawaiian Holdings is still searching for the profitability that has mostly eluded it since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic nearly four years ago.
Xwing delivers cargo to US Air Force with pilotless Grand Caravan flight
Autonomous flight developer Xwing recently operated a pilotless cargo flight with its modified Cessna Grand Caravan on behalf of US Air Force (USAF) officials.
Boeing reveals flight of first production-model MH-139
Without providing a specific date, Boeing says it completed assembly of the first production-model MH-139A Grey Wolf nuclear-site security helicopter in late December, with the first flight of that aircraft following shortly after.
JetBlue slows aircraft delivery schedule as it expects no growth in 2024
Growth will be constrained for US carrier JetBlue Airways throughout 2024 as it expects double-digit numbers of Airbus A320s to be grounded for geared turbofan (GTF) engine inspections.
Demand for aircraft helped push US foreign military sales to new record in FY2023
The US Department of State says American industry supplied nearly $81 billion-worth of military armaments and services to foreign partners in fiscal year 2023, a 55% increase compared to the previous year.
Austrian Airlines to open new transatlantic service
Star Alliance carrier Austrian Airlines is to open a new transatlantic service, with flights to the US city of Boston.
Airbus’s new Beluga carrier cleared to serve US destinations
Airbus has been authorise to conduct transatlantic services with its newly-established Airbus Beluga Transport outsize cargo operation.
American 777 crew dealing with belated load close-out before serious JFK incursion: inquiry
US investigators have disclosed that an American Airlines Boeing 777-200ER crew had originally expected and briefed for a different runway departure, and was dealing with a belated load close-out, before a serious runway incursion incident at New York JFK last year.
Boeing withdraws exemption request for 737 Max 7 amid door-plug failure scrutiny
Boeing has withdrawn a request with the Federal Aviation Administration for a temporary exemption from some certification rules for its 737 Max 7, bringing more uncertainty to the type’s certification timeline.
JetBlue appoints Warren Christie as new chief operating officer
US carrier JetBlue Airways plans to replace chief operating officer Joanna Geraghty with long-time executive Warren Christie when Geraghty assumes leadership of the company on 12 February.
Hawaiian returns Haneda slots due to unfavourable market conditions
Hawaiian Airlines has given up slots for flights to Tokyo’s Haneda airport from Honolulu and Kona effective 2 April, blaming “current market conditions”.
US government tentatively declines Aeromexico-Delta joint venture
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has tentatively ordered Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico to unwind the joint venture that the two carriers have been pursuing since December 2016.
Canadian investment firm CDPQ establishes new lessor with SMBC Aviation Capital
Canadian investment company CDPQ is tying up with SMBC Aviation Capital to establish a new leasing and aircraft finance platform.
Additional US manufacturers join USAF autonomous fighter effort
Three additional aerospace manufacturers – Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman – have confirmed they will participate in a US Air Force effort to develop autonomous fighter jets known as collaborative combat aircraft.
Airlines returning first of grounded Boeing 737 Max 9s to service
Major carriers such as Alaska Airlines, Copa Airlines and United Airlines are returning to service Boeing 737 Max 9s grounded following the 5 January de-pressurisation emergency on Alaska Flight 1282.
US regional carrier Silver Airways expands reach through codeshare with Brazil’s Azul
US regional carrier Silver Airways has entered a codeshare agreement with Brazil’s Azul, through which the carriers will sell each other’s flights as their own.
Mesa seeks to dodge de-listing from stock exchange with late fiscal Q4 filing
Mesa Air Group on 26 January filed its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings report, potentially helping it avoid being de-listed from the US Nasdaq stock exchange.
Eviation picks Eve co-founder Andre Stein as new chief executive
Former CEO Gregory Davis is staying on as president of the Washington-based developer and helping Stein transition into the role of CEO.
Investigators probe fatal Jetstream crash after departure for remote Canadian mine
Investigators have identified a British Aerospace Jetstream 32 involved in a fatal terrain collision in Canada as a 33-year old airframe operated by Northwestern Air Lease.
JetBlue's deal to acquire Spirit set expire in two days
JetBlue Airways’ agreement to acquire Spirit Airlines is set to expire on 28 January, creating further uncertainty about a proposed combination that has already been shot down by a US judge.
Broken balance weight arm jammed Canadian PC-24 rudder during climb
Canadian investigators discovered damage that jammed the rudder mechanism of a Pilatus PC-24 which suffered control problems during climb en route to Kelowna.
Lockheed warns of fresh TR-3 schedule risk as F-35 shipments slow
Lockheed Martin chief executive James Taiclet has warned of another potential schedule slip for the F-35 programme’s Technical Refresh 3 (TR-3) activity, as shipments of the fifth-generation type fell below triple figures last year.
Southwest to slow growth in 2024 in bid to address surging expenses
Southwest Airlines is slowing both expansion and hiring to improve efficiencies as it seeks to offset the ballooning costs that pushed it into the red last quarter.
Cost overruns on B-21 development generate $1.5bn charge for Northrop
While company executives previously predicted that early stages of B-21 development and production would lose money, the substantial $1.56 billion charge from the US government related to cost overruns led Northrop to post a loss in the final quarter of 2023.
NASA retires Mars helicopter Ingenuity due to rotor damage
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory has retired its Mars helicopter Ingenuity after the craft suffered damage upon landing.
Anduril selected for USAF autonomous fighter programme
The artificial intelligence-focused defence technology start-up, which recently acquired autonomous fighter developer Blue Force Technologies, will be among five companies advancing so-called collaborative combat aircraft.
Alaska’s 2024 growth plan takes hit from 737 Max 9 troubles
Alaska Air Group has trimmed its 2024 capacity expectations and expects to take a $150 million hit this year due to the 737 Max 9 door-plug issue, which Alaska’s chief executive has now squarely pinned on Boeing.
American upbeat on short-haul business after posting $822m 2023 profit
American Airlines posted an improved full-year 2023 profit of $822 million on record revenue.
FAA prohibits Boeing from expanding 737 Max production amid door-plug inquiry
The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered Boeing to halt further 737 Max production rate increases as the agency undertakes a large-scale investigation intended to ensure the safety of the aircraft’s production system.
Air France to open transatlantic service to new US destination
SkyTeam carrier Air France is to open a new transatlantic service this year, operating to the US city of Phoenix.
Airbus seeks approval for A321XLR mini-suites on behalf of US operator
Airbus is seeking US regulatory approval to fit mini-suites to the A321XLR, on behalf of a US operator looking to configure the twinjet in a three-class layout.
Why United chief Kirby is unfazed by more operational and cost pressures in 2024
United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby reflected during the carrier’s earnings call on 23 January that he mostly called 2023 right.
United Airlines removes Max 10 from fleet plan over expected delay
United Airlines has removed the Boeing 737 Max 10 from its fleet plan and is looking at “alternate options”, as the impact of the recent in-flight loss of a door plug on an Alaska Airlines Max 9 potentially spreads to other variants.
Saab lands $101 million T-7A aft fuselage production contract from Boeing
Saab has been awarded a $101 million contract to produce aft fuselage sections for Boeing T-7A Red Hawk advanced jet trainers, as the new type advances towards operational use.
Northrop approved to begin low-rate production on B-21
The decision comes after the first prototype of the next-generation stealth bomber has completed at least two successful flights.
United posts 28% lower fourth-quarter profit as expenses rise almost 15%
United Airlines posted a $600 million profit for the fourth quarter of 2023, down almost one-third from last year’s profit in the same period, as expenses such as salaries and maintenance costs rose.
F-16 programme powers past 50th anniversary of first flight
A remarkable anniversary in the history of Lockheed Martin’s F-16 programme will be marked on 20 January, exactly 50 years after a prototype of the lightweight fighter got airborne for the first time.
‘Just didn’t work’: Mesa chief describes financial troubles under previous deal with United
Phoenix-based regional carrier Mesa Airlines has been manoeuvring to reduce debt and improve profitability, largely through new agreements with partner United Airlines.
Spirit and JetBlue appeal court ruling blocking acquisition
JetBlue and Spirit Airlines are appealing the court ruling earlier this week that denied the airlines’ $3.8 billion tie-up.
FAA exempts G700 and G800 from fuel-icing certification rules
The Federal Aviation Administration has temporarily exempted Gulfstream’s in-testing G700 and G800 business jets from certain fuel-icing airworthiness rules, seemingly bringing the company one step closer to achieving the jets’ certification.
Cargojet abandons 777 freighter plans over ‘soft’ market concerns
Canadian carrier Cargojet has opted against entering the Boeing 777 freighter sector, and is dropping its commitment for four converted aircraft.
Southern Airways Grand Caravan makes emergency landing on Virginia highway
A Southern Airways Express Cessna 208B Grand Caravan made an emergency landing on a highway near Washington DC’s Dulles International airport shorly after taking off.
JetSetGo tentatively signs deal for 50 of Overair’s ‘Butterfly’ aircraft
Indian executive jet operator JetSetGo has signed a letter of intent to potentially purchase 50 of Overair’s in-development Butterfly aircraft.
Spirit working to steady itself after JetBlue deal is blocked
Following a US judge’s decision to block JetBlue Airways’ acquisition of rival low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines, Spirit has told investors that it is moving to shore up its financial position.
Atlas Air 747 suffers engine fire after take-off
Video shows flames pouring from one of the Boeing 747’s left-side engines, which forced the jet’s pilots to divert back to Miami International airport just 14min into a scheduled flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Despite exceptional 2023 figures, airline safety faces scrutiny after wake-up calls
The airline industry’s exceptional performance in 2023 illustrates how much safety has improved over recent decades – but the new year’s opening week delivered a stark wake-up call.
Why Delta engineer Emma Galarza is adding drone technology to carrier’s fleet
Senior engineer Emma Galarza is helping Delta Air Lines to revolutionise its aircraft maintenance processes by pioneering advanced inspection and machine learning technologies.
Struggling Mesa Airlines reworks United deal and continues selling CRJ900s
Financially struggling Mesa Air Group has reached new agreements with partner United Airlines and continues selling off spare aircraft and engines as the company risks being de-listed from the US stock market.
B-21 completes second known test flight
The next-generation US Air Force stealth bomber being developed by Northrop Grumman made its first flight in November from a test centre in Palmdale, California.
Frontier to bolster Puerto Rican presence with planned crew base in San Juan
Frontier Airlines is planning to open a crew base at Luis Munoz Marin International airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico starting this Northern Hemisphere summer.
Boeing faces renewed scrutiny as quality issues resurface with Alaska Max 9 incident
Boeing’s quality-control and safety protocols have been thrust back into the spotlight following the early January in-flight failure of a 737 Max 9’s door plug, with regulators, investigators and lawmakers launching fresh probes into the company’s persistent troubles.
Lockheed completes assembly of 1,000th F-35
While fabrication of the milestone aircraft has been completed, details on the jet’s intended recipient are not yet available as deliveries of new F-35s remain suspended while Lockheed completes flight testing on the latest configuration of the advanced fighter.
What next for JetBlue and Spirit after collapse of deal?
Whatever comes next, the court’s assertion that the ruling represents a “victory for consumers” will be tested
Leonardo hones capabilities of BriteCloud 55-T decoy
Leonardo has upgraded the capabilities of its fighter-launched BriteCloud 55-T active decoy, with the effort having been completed in conjunction with a NATO working group.
Passengers of flight 1282 sue Alaska Airlines and Boeing for ‘fear and trauma’
Four passengers who were aboard Alaska Airlines flight 1282 during the rapid depressurisation incident that has grounded 171 Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft have filed a lawsuit against the US carrier and the airframer.
US government shutdown could ‘dramatically hinder’ NTSB investigations
US National Transportation Safety Board chair Jennifer Homendy warned lawmakers that a government shutdown could stall investigations such as that into why an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 suffered a rapid in-flight decompression two weeks ago.
New Horizon chief charts course for now-public Canadian air taxi start-up
Now a publicly traded company, New Horizon Aircraft’s chief executive Brandon Robinson looks ahead to certification of an in-development hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle.
Bell secures $1.6bn contract for Canadian CH-146 sustainment
The $1.68 billion deal between Ottawa and Bell Textron Canada will provide maintenance and overhaul support to the Royal Canadian Air Force’s fleet of 82 CH-146 Griffon utility helicopters.
Lockheed to integrate latest air defence suppression missile with all F-35 variants
The manufacturer of the advanced F-35 stealth fighter received a $97 million Pentagon contract to begin early development work on integrating the Northrop Grumman AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile – Extended Range with all three variants of the fifth-generation jet.
Spirit at risk of bankruptcy and liquidation as JetBlue deal falls through: TD Cowen
In the wake of a US judge’s decision to block JetBlue Airways’ attempted acquisition of Spirit Airlines, it is unclear how the respective low-cost carriers will chart paths forward.
Nixed JetBlue-Spirit deal might impact Alaska-Hawaiian transaction
The blocked acquisition of Spirit Airlines by JetBlue Airways could have some bearing on another potential blockbuster deal in the US market: Alaska Airlines’ bid for Hawaiian Airlines.
Boeing names retired Navy admiral to lead ‘independent’ quality review
Boeing has started forming a team to lead a detailed assessment of product quality, a move coming in response to an issue that forced US regulators to ground 171 737 Max 9s 10 days ago.
US court blocks JetBlue’s acquisition of Spirit
A US district court ruled on 16 January that JetBlue Airways’ proposed $3.8 billion acquisition of rival low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines cannot proceed, blocking the deal on anti-competitive grounds.
SAS to open transatlantic service to SkyTeam hub Atlanta
Star Alliance carrier SAS is to open a new transatlantic service to Atlanta, a key hub for rival alliance SkyTeam which the airline is set to join.
Helios Horizon sets sights on stratospheric electric flight in 2025
Helios Horizon, a small US aerospace project seeking to demonstrate electric propulsion, aims to break a world altitude record for electric aircraft this summer and in 2025 to fly higher, into earth’s stratosphere.
Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker: January 2024 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Airbus widened order and delivery edge over Boeing in 2023
For the fifth consecutive year, Airbus in 2023 delivered more aircraft and landed more orders than Boeing, reflecting the US company’s ongoing difficultly in overcoming troubles with its aircraft programmes, most notably with the 737 Max.
Alaska initially offered $20 per share for Hawaiian but revised bid as stock slid
In its initial bid to acquire Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines offered $20 per share before the two sides eventually agreed on a final price of $18, as the Honolulu-based carrier’s stock lost two-thirds of its value during the second half of 2023.
Financial firm BlackRock takes over London Gatwick and Sydney airports investor GIP
Investment advisory firm BlackRock is to acquire Global Infrastructure Partners, the entity whose portfolio includes London Gatwick, Edinburgh and Sydney airports.
FAA asks Boeing for ‘additional data’ before approving Max 9 inspection protocol
The Federal Aviation Administration is asking Boeing to provide “additional data” before it approves ”an extensive and rigorous” inspection protocol that would allow the Boeing 737 Max 9 to return to service.
‘Quiet’ supersonic X-59 demonstrator unveiled by NASA and Lockheed
With the drop of a curtain, NASA and Lockheed Martin on 12 January revealed the experimental X-59 aircraft that is intended to demonstrate the potential of “low-boom” supersonic flight.
FAA warns travellers to brace for weather-related chaos
The Federal Aviation Administartion is warning travellers this long holiday weekend that inclement winter weather may cause havoc for air travel across the nation.
Pentagon unveils first-ever national strategy for defence industry
The new National Defense Industrial Strategy hopes to address significant challenges that arose within critical manufacturers following the Covid-19 pandemic, including lack of critical inventory and labour shortages, and a slow-to-adapt government acquisition process.
Supply chain issues will plague aviation for some time: Delta CEO
Delta Air Lines’ chief executive Ed Bastian says supply chain issues will continue to plague the industry for some time, citing Pratt & Whitney’s engine recall as an example.
FAA launches audit of Boeing and considers third-party oversight of 737 Max quality
The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an audit into Boeing’s production system as part of its investigation into why an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9’s emergency exit door plug failed during a flight last week.
Delta posts profit of $4.6bn for 2023
Delta Air Lines posted a full-year 2023 profit of $4.6 billion on revenue 20% higher year on year, and reports a strong profit for the fourth quarter.
Delta Air Lines orders 20 A350-1000s
Delta Air Lines has announced an order for 20 Airbus A350-1000s, with options for 20 more of the larger variant.
Cirrus introduces new G7 variant of SR Series single-engine piston aircraft
Cirrus Aircraft has introduced a new variant of its popular single-engine SR-series aircraft, with a redesigned interior, updated electronics and displays, advanced safety systems and other comfort and “convenience features” for both pilots and passengers.
Atlas Air receives fourth 777F to operate on behalf of MSC Air Cargo
US carrier Atlas Air Worldwide has taken delivery of the last of four Boeing 777-200 Freighters it is contracted to fly for Swiss transport and logistics specialist Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).
FAA focuses 737 Max 9 investigation on ‘non-compliance’ by Boeing
Boeing has become a target of the Federal Aviation Administration’s investigation into the 5 January inflight failure of an emergency exit door plug on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9.
What does Boeing 737 Max 9 door incident mean for airlines?
The failure of a door plug on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet on 5 January continues the commercial air transport industry’s inauspicious start to 2024 in safety terms
Alaska Airlines cancels hundreds of Max 9 flights through 13 January
Alaska Airlines has cancelled all of its Boeing 737 Max 9 flights through 13 January in the aftermath of the 5 January incident in which parts of one such aircraft’s fuselage blew off during a flight from Portland, Oregon to Southern California.
Airbus Helicopters settles Grand Canyon crash lawsuit for $75m
A judge in Las Vegas has approved a settlement that will see Airbus Helicopters and sightseeing tour operator Papillon Airways pay a combined $100 million to the family of a victim in a 2018 fatal crash in the Grand Canyon – the lion’s share of which will be paid by the airframer.
Supernal unveils conceptual S-A2 air taxi
Hyundai Motor Group subsidiary Supernal revealed its proposed S-A2 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle on 9 January during consumer electronics show CES in Las Vegas.
Mesa Airlines at risk of de-listing from US stock exchange
Mesa Air Group recently received notice it is at risk of being de-listed from the US stock exchange due to continued delays in reporting its fiscal fourth-quarter results.
Global airline passenger traffic reached 99% of 2019 levels in November
Global passenger traffic was within 1 percentage point of 2019 levels in November last year, according to the latest data from IATA, as it closes on the pre-Covid peak.
Lessors chase 777 Partners for $28m alleging non-payment for Flair 737s
Investment firm 777 Partners is being pursued by lessors of four aircraft formerly operated by Canadian carrier Flair Airlines, over allegations of non-payment.
Only one pilot in cockpit of Astra badly damaged in Las Vegas overrun
US investigators have determined that only one pilot – rather than the two required – was flying an IAI 1125 Westwind Astra business jet when it landed long and overran at North Las Vegas airport.
Boeing ramped deliveries and landed significant new sales in December
Boeing logged more aircraft orders and deliveries in December than in any month in 2023, marking a positive finish to a year marred by production and quality issues.
Guide roller fittings on Alaska Max 9 door plug are fractured: NTSB
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said that damage to a door plug which blew out of an in-flight Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 last week includes fractured guide fittings that hold the plug in place.
Surf Air to launch subsidised service between Williamsport and Washington Dulles
US start-up Surf Air Mobility has an agreement with Pennsylvannia’s Williamsport Regional airport to launch scheduled commuter flights to Washington Dulles International airport starting in May.
JetBlue president Geraghty to succeed Hayes as CEO in February
JetBlue Airways president and chief operating officer Joanna Geraghty will succeed Robin Hayes as the company’s chief executive on 12 February.
United finds ‘bolts that needed additional tightening’ on some Max 9s
United Airlines confirms that it has found several Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft with loose door plug bolts and other parts in the wake of an accident involving an Alaska Airlines airframe of the same type.
NTSB releases images of recovered door plug that failed on Alaska Airlines’ 737 Max 9
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released images of the door plug that blew out of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 after departing Portland, Oregon on 5 January.
Joby plans first electric aircraft charging station in Southern California
US air taxi developer Joby Aviation has an agreement with private jet operator Clay Lacy Aviation to install its first electric aircraft charging station in Southern California.
Transat’s flight attendants to vote on second tentative deal after ‘unforeseen rejection’
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat has reached another tentative five-year contract agreement with its 2,100 flight attendants following the union’s rejection of the airline’s first offer.
Venezuelan government furious over transfer of impounded Emtrasur 747-300M
Venezuela’s government has reacted angrily to an Argentinean judicial decision to order the transfer of an impounded combi Boeing 747-300M to US authorities.
Boeing to hold all-hands safety meeting following 737 Max 9 door-plug blowout
Boeing’s chief executive is taking several steps to encourage employees to strengthen their commitment to aviation safety following the in-flight failure of a cabin door plug on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9.
Boeing begins transforming MD-90 into NASA’s X-66A demonstrator
Boeing has started dismantling and scanning an old MD-90 as part of a multi-year NASA-supported project to transform the former passenger jet into the X-66A truss-braced-wing demonstrator.
Detached door-plug from Alaska 737 Max located: US investigators
US investigators are retrieving the door-plug which detached from an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9, after the structure was located by an individual in the Portland area.
NTSB’s Homendy blasts FAA for dragging its feet on cockpit voice recorders
US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) chair Jennifer Homendy blasted the Federal Aviation Administration for dragging its feet on a rule change pertaining to cockpit voice recording equipment that she says will significantly increase commercial aviation safety in the USA, and assist with investigations.
NTSB probes critical safety questions on Alaska accident aircraft
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) says that the Alaska Airlines aircraft involved in an explosive depressurisation accident earlier this week is structurally sound, but critical safety questions have come to light on the first day of the investigation.
United Airlines cancels 270 flights due to Boeing 737 Max 9 grounding
United Airlines, the world’s biggest operator of the Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft with 79 examples in its fleet, is keeping all of its airframes of the type grounded pending inspections mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration.
US NTSB asks for public’s help in locating Alaska Max 9 burst door plug
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is asking for the public’s assistance in the investigation of the door plug blow-out of an Alaska Airlines’ Boeing 737 Max 9 over Portland, Oregon.
Experts point at Boeing as investigation into Alaska 737 Max incident gets underway
Though the investigation into the 5 January fuselage failure of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 is just getting underway, Boeing is already in the crosshairs.
FAA grounds ‘certain’ Boeing 737 Max 9s after Alaska Airlines depressurisation incident
The US Federal Aviation Administration has ordered the “temporary” grounding of “certain” Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft after an incident in which a window and parts of the fuselage were blown out of an Alaska Airlines aircraft while in flight.
Air-ground communications capture Alaska 737 Max depressurisation emergency
Air-ground communications show that the depressurisation which affected an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 occurred just after it was transferred to Seattle en route air traffic centre while climbing out of Portland.
Alaska grounds 737 Max 9s after window blow-out incident
Alaska Airlines has grounded its fleet of Boeing 737 Max 9s hours after one such aircraft suffered a window blow-out after take-off.
Alaska 737 Max suffers ‘pressurisation issue’ after window blow-out
An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 suffered a “pressurisation issue” after a window and parts of the fuselage blew out shortly after take-off.
Aurora begins fabrication of X-65 ‘active flow control’ jet
The Boeing subsidiary is under contract by the Pentagon’s secretive Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to design and fabricate a novel aircraft that uses so-called “active flow control’ to manoeuvre, rather than traditional mechanical aerodynamic surfaces like flaps and rudders.
USAF crew ejects from B-1B in South Dakota crash
All four crew aboard a US Air Force Boeing B-1B supersonic bomber safely ejected from a crash on Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota, for which the cause is not yet known.
Start-up carrier New Pacific Airlines cuts Las Vegas from network
US start-up carrier New Pacific Airlines has dropped Las Vegas, one of its primary markets, from its fledgling network due to ongoing ground delays at Harry Reid International airport.
Hermeus completes ground testing on first Quarterhorse hypersonic testbed
The non-flying Quarterhorse Mk 0 test article is the first of four aircraft in the Quarterhorse programme, through which US start-up Hermeus aims to produce a hypersonic vehicle capable of reaching Mach 4 and surpassing the all-time airspeed record held by Lockheed Martin’s SR-71 Blackbird.
Initial King Air 200s with Garmin’s auto-land system enter service
Beechcraft King Air 200s are now flying with Garmin’s auto-land system after two aircraft service companies recently delivered aircraft retrofitted with the technology.
Horizon Aircraft assembles board of directors ahead of public listing
Canadian hybrid-electric air taxi developer Horizon Aircraft has assembled a five-member board of directors that will oversee the company following its combination with Pono Capital Three and subsequent listing on the US stock exchange.
US flight cancellations down during busiest-ever year of air travel: DOT
The USA’s busiest-ever year for air travel also saw the lowest rate of flight cancellations since 2016.
Envoy to add 19 more Embraer E-Jets amid ongoing fleet expansion
American Airlines’ regional subsidiary Envoy Air is planning to add 19 large regional jets – eight Embraer 175s and 11 E170s – with deliveries expected to begin this year.
Police probe Salt Lake City fatality after finding unconscious man inside engine of Delta A220
Police in Utah have detailed a fatal event during which an individual accessed the apron at Salt Lake City airport and was found inside an operating aircraft engine.
Boeing urges airlines to inspect 737 Max jets for potentially loose bolt
The Federal Aviation Administration said on 28 December that Boeing has issued a multi-operator message “urging operators of newer single-aisle airplanes to inspect specific tie rods that control rudder movement for possible loose hardware”.
US Army to purchase thousands of counter-UAV interceptors from Raytheon
The US Army plans to purchase 6,700 Coyote jet-powered drone interceptors from Raytheon, including an explosive warhead variant and a secretive “non-kinetic” model that uses electronic warfare or directed energy.
FAA grants Icon Aircraft’s A5 primary category certification
The US Federal Aviation Administration has granted Icon Aircraft’s A5 amphibious airframe type certification in the primary category, clearing the way for the aircraft type to be sold and registered outside of the USA
US Navy expands fighter maintenance support to cover air force F-16s
Amid the ongoing retirement of older model Boeing F/A-18 strike fighters, the US Navy is using excess capacity at its fighter maintenance depots to assist the US Air Force in sustaining its Lockheed Martin F-16 jets.
USAF tests reverse flow air refuelling using C-5M to top off KC-10
The reverse refuelling concept turns the US Air Force’s massive Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy strategic lifters into “floating gas stations”, freeing up more dedicated tanker aircraft to refuel tactical craft.
Weather-related difficulties plague Southwest’s holiday operations again
A year after overseeing an operational meltdown that disrupted end-of-year travel for millions of Americans, Southwest Airlines once again struggled with weather-related difficulties during the busy winter holiday travel period.
US Congress restores funding to F-35 adaptive engine programme
Although the Pentagon wants to move on from the Adaptive Engine Transition Programme, lawmakers in the US Capitol approved $280 million in 2024 to fund the research programme that generated two prototype adaptive cycle powerplants for the F-35 stealth fighter.
Why Lockheed Martin’s F-16 remains a prize fighter 50 years after flight debut
Still in production half a century after its unplanned first flight in prototype guise, the F-16 continues to punch above its weight for 25 nations, with service entry also drawing near for Ukraine’s air force.
Boeing delivers two F-15EXs with two more expected by year-end
The delivery marks the third and fourth examples of the latest F-15 variant turned over to the US Air Force, which hopes to supplement its growing fleet of fifth-generation fighters.
Southwest pilots to vote on tentative contract
Some 11,000 pilots represented by the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) are set to vote on a tentative agreement for a new five-year contract that would run through 2028.
NASA and Joby simulate up to 45 eVTOLs in Dallas Fort-Worth airspace
NASA and air taxi developer Joby Aviation have completed a series of simulations designed to evaluate how electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft integrate into busy airspace.
‘Franken-bird’ project attempts to splice together damaged F-35s
Lockheed Martin and the US Air Force say the salvage mission represents the first-ever attempt to remove viable airframe sections from damaged aircraft and re-connect them into an airworthy jet.
FAA establishes committee to examine air traffic controller fatigue
The US Federal Aviation Administration has established a panel to examine air traffic controller fatigue.
US Congress halts KC-135 replacement until USAF produces stealth tanker acquisition plan
The 2024 defence spending plan approved by lawmakers in Washington bars the US Air Force from issuing a formal strategy to phase out the ageing Boeing KC-135 tanker fleet, until the service produces an acquisition strategy for the Next Generation Air-refuelling System survivable tanker.
US lessor Azorra takes first widebody through Voyager acquisition
US lessor Azorra has branched into widebody aircraft with the acquisition of a Boeing 777-300ER operated by Air France.
Canada to obtain 11 MQ-9B SkyGuardian RPAs
Ottawa’s decision to obtain 11 MQ-9Bs is one part of a major overhaul for Canadian airpower.
Southwest and pilots’ union agree in principle on new contract
After more than three years of often acrimonious negotiations, Southwest Airlines has an agreement in principle for a new contract with its pilots’ union.
US defence spending bill could expose new details of sixth-generation fighter development
Language included in the 2024 US defence spending plan will require the Pentagon to provide greater insight into how it plans to develop and field the next generation of combat aircraft, including sixth-generation fighters and autonomous support jets.
US carrier JSX tentatively signs for over 330 hybrid-electric aircraft
US charter carrier JSX has provisionally agreed to acquire over 330 hybrid-electric aircraft from three manufacturers – US-based Electra, France’s Aura Aero and Sweden’s Heart Aerospace.
Overair reveals full-sized prototype of ‘Butterfly’ air taxi
Southern California air taxi developer Overair on 19 December revealed the first full-scale prototype of its electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle.
Government auditor tells SOCOM to slow Armed Overwatch acquisition
The US Government Accountability Office says the Pentagon’s Special Operations Command is moving ahead too rapidly with the acquisition of Armed Overwatch turboprops from L3Harris-Air Tractor, failing to adequately justify the planned fleet size of 75 aircraft.
Southwest hit with $140m penalty for end of 2022 network meltdown
The US Department of Transportation on 18 December issued a $140 million penalty in response to Southwest Airlines’ system-wide operational meltdown that cancelled 16,900 flights and left 2 million passengers stranded during the height of air travel in December 2022.
Canada announces deployment of military helicopters to Baltic region
During a visit to fellow NATO member Latvia, Canada’s top defence leaders announced Ottawa will deploy Bell CH-146 Griffon and Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopters to the Baltic region starting in 2024 as part of a multi-national battle group – Canada’s first “persistent” deployment of tactical rotary aviation to Europe in roughly 20 years.
WestJet plans to launch Calgary-Seoul flights in 2024
Canadian carrier WestJet Airlines intends to launch flights from its base in Calgary to Incheon International airport in Seoul with three-times weekly flights starting on 17 May.
US Congress approves nearly 12% reduction to A-10 fleet
For the second consecutive year, lawmakers who control US defence spending have approved the retirement of some Fairchild Republic A-10 attack jets, a move long-sought by US Air Force leaders.
Chris Raymond to become Boeing Global Services CEO
Boeing’s chief sustainability officer Chris Raymond will succeed Stephanie Pope as chief executive of Boeing Global Services, effective on 1 January 2024.
P&W engine issues could ground one third of Air Transat’s A321LRs
Up to one third of Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat’s Airbus A321LRs could be grounded late in 2024 due to its Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan (GTF) engines needing to come off wing for inspections.
Gol revises fleet-growth forecast to reflect slower pace of 737 deliveries
Delays by Boeing in delivering 737 Max have led Brazilian discount airline Gol to significantly par back its fleet expansion plans through 2028, leaving it unable to fully capitalise on increasing demand for air travel.
Air Transat continues distancing itself from lows of Covid
Transat AT, parent of Canadian carrier Air Transat, squeezed out a profit and generated C$765 million ($570 million) in revenue during its fiscal fourth quarter which ended on 31 October, as the carrier distances itself from the lows of the Covid-19 pandemic.
GE Aerospace achieves breakthrough in hypersonic engine development
Using a subscale demonstrator, jet turbine manufacturer GE Aerospace successfully ignited a dual-mode ramjet engine using rotating detonation combustion – a technique the company says holds promise for powering crewed hypersonic vehicles.
Ampaire’s CEO: 12h flight demonstrates hybrid-electric’s range-extending potential
Hybrid-electric propulsion developer Ampaire recently completed a continuous 12h flight with its Electric EEL aircraft, demonstrating the range-extending potential of its technology for regional aviation.
US major airlines gear up for busy end-of-year travel period
Major US carriers expect a busy end-of-year holiday travel season and record passenger figures, topping last year as well as November’s Thanksgiving holiday period.
Alaska Airlines and Porter Airlines create ‘broad partnership’ with interline agreement
Oneworld carrier Alaska Airlines has launched an interline agreement with Canada’s Porter Airlines, which is expanding its reach across North America.
‘Very novel and very difficult’: Wisk takes measured approach to developing autonomous air taxi
Wisk is on a mission to improve people’s lives by making their daily commutes or trips to the airport more manageable, and for its autonomous flight technology to be widely accessible.
Wisk CEO: Air taxi start-up ’not in either camp’ on eVTOL charging debate
As opposing views on standards for electric air taxi charging infrastructure have recently burst into public view, autonomous aircraft developer Wisk Aero finds both cases compelling.
Air Transat names Jean-Francois Pruneau chief financial officer
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat has appointed Jean-Francois Pruneau as chief financial officer effective 9 January.
Boeing accelerates 737 deliveries in November as Emirates 777X deal boosts backlog
Boeing ramped up its 737 Max deliveries in November and secured a massive order from Emirates Airline for the in-development 777X, giving the airframer’s backlog a boost as 2023 nears closure.
Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker: December 2023 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
FAA to set new PW1100G maintenance requirements after learning more parts could fail
The Federal Aviation Administration plans to place new maintenance requirements on airlines after learning that more components in Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines may be affected by a powder-metal manufacturing problem.
Boeing lands SOCOM order for six MH-47G Chinook helicopters
The deal for six MH-47G special operations helicopters will help sustain Boeing’s Chinook Block II production line, while the manufacturer awaits a hoped-for acquisition decision by the US Army.
Boeing picks Stephanie Pope for new chief operating officer role
Boeing has appointed Stephanie Pope – currently head of the airframer’s services business – to the newly created post of chief operating officer, effective from 1 January.
Anduril advancing Fury autonomous fighter after Blue Force acquisition
California defence start-up Anduril is integrating its proprietary autonomy software, along with expertise in propulsion and composite materials, into the Fury autonomous fighter platform, following the company’s acquisition of the jet’s original designer Blue Force Technologies.
Why airline industry focus is on the margins of profitability
Confirmation from IATA that the airline industry will return to collective profitability this year and that passenger volumes will shortly surpass pre-Covid levels is an indication that the sector has finally normalised.
Troubled US kit manufacturer Van's Aircraft aims to restructure under Chapter 11
US-based kit manufacturer Van’s Aircraft has resorted to Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection while it attempts to restructure, after encountering financial difficulties.
US grounds entire Osprey fleet following deadly crash in Japan
Both the US Air Force and US Navy say a preliminary investigation into the 29 November crash of a Bell Boeing CV-22 Osprey indicates a “potential materiel failure” caused the deadly mishap, but the underlying cause remains unclear.
US flight school ATP orders 40 more Textron Aviation Cessna Skyhawks
ATP flight school has ordered 40 more Textron Aviation Cessna Skyhawk single-engine piston aircraft for delivery beginning in 2026.
‘Miami-Dade and beyond’: GlobalX plans electric aircraft operations in South Florida and Caribbean
The recent launch of Global Crossing Airlines Group’s new subsidiary UrbanX is part of a long-term plan to develop an electric aviation ecosystem in South Florida that will build off the expanding cargo and charter operations of GlobalX and its fleet of Airbus A320s.
Top Aces adds A-4 Skyhawk to Canadian adversary training fleet
The private provider of adversary air support has been providing aggressor training to the Royal Canadian Air Force using a fleet of modified Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets and Bombardier Learjet 35s.
‘We went into this with eyes wide open’: Hawaiian CEO on acquisition by Alaska
As the dust settles on arguably the biggest surprise announcement of the year for US commercial aviation, Hawaiian Airlines’ chief executive Peter Ingram says there is probably no better match for Hawaiian than Alaska Airlines.
Lockheed Martin sues F-35 supplier over refusal to deliver titanium components
The F-35 prime contractor alleges ones of its sub-contractors, Pittsburgh-based Howmet Aerospace, breached its contract with Lockheed when the metallic components supplier refused to deliver titanium parts for the advanced stealth jet at previously agreed upon prices.
Reliable Robotics completes pilotless test flight of Cessna Caravan
Autonomous aviation developer Reliable Robotics recently flew a Cessna Caravan with no pilot on board during a test flight in Northern California.
Stratolaunch prepares to introduce ex-Virgin Orbit 747-400 to aerospace test fleet
US air-launch specialist Stratolaunch has shown off the Boeing 747-400 it acquired after former operator Virgin Orbit was broken up earlier this year.
IATA raises 2023 profit expectations for airlines to $23bn and sees small rise for 2024
IATA expects the airline industry to post a collective net profit of $23.3 billion for 2023, more than doubling its expectations from six months ago.
Porter Airlines to launch flights from Montreal to Western Canada in 2024
Entering a new phase of its ongoing North American expansion, Porter Airlines plans to launch flights from Montreal to Western Canada next year with its growing fleet of Embraer 195-E2s.
Fuelled TalonA carried aloft as first Stratolaunch hypersonic flight approaches
Following a successful taxi test of its two-aircraft hypersonic flight system, California start-up Stratolaunch has carried a fully-fuelled TalonA hypersonic vehicle aloft under the company’s jet-powered Roc mother ship, a prerequisite for TalonA’s first self-powered flight.
Chilean low-cost carrier Sky Airline applies to DOT for routes to USA
Chile’s Sky Airline has applied to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to provide air service to the United States alongside its Peruvian subsidiary, which has been flying to the US since 2022.
Western Global emerges from restructuring with fleet and workforce intact
US cargo carrier Western Global Airlines has emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection with a “strong financial foundation” after implementing its restructuring plan.
Boeing no longer competing to build USAF’s new ‘Doomsday jet’
The withdrawal of Boeing from the contest to build a new airborne command centre capable of managing a nuclear exchange leaves Sierra Nevada Corporation as the only bidder to replace the current Boeing E-4B Nightwatch.
Anti-ice issue prompts Boeing to seek certification exemptions for 737 Max 7
Boeing has asked the Federal Aviation Administration to exempt its long-delayed 737 Max 7 from several certification rules due to an issue involving engine anti-ice system overheating.
Hawaiian and Alaska agree to break-up fees if planned tie-up falls through
Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines have released more information about their potential merger, including reciprocal break-up fees in the case of non-consummation of the proposed transaction.
Alaska acquisition of Hawaiian is ‘pro-consumer, pro-competitive’: Minicucci
Alaska Airlines chief executive Ben Minicucci says that the planned acquistion of Hawaiian Airlines will benefit not only the companies, but also employees and consumers, and it was the right opportunity for the Seattle-based company at the right time.
Alaska Airlines to acquire Hawaiian for $1bn plus debt
Alaska Airlines to acquire Hawaiian Airlines for $1 billion, the companies said on 3 December.
Beta to expand New York facility into electric aircraft delivery centre
Vermont-based electric aircraft manufacturer Beta Technologies has received a $20 million grant from the state of New York to expand its facility at Plattsburgh International airport into a flight-test and aircraft delivery centre.
FAA proposes rule to extend cockpit voice recording requirement to 25h
The US Federal Aviation Administration has proposed a new rule to increase the recording time of cockpit voice recorders to 25h for all newly manufactured aircraft from its current 2h requirement.
Which types retired in our latest World Air Forces review?
We detail some of the most notable national fleet retirements recorded in the 12 months since we published our last World Air Forces directory at the end of 2022.
Anduril unveils drone-killing ‘reusable missile’ designed for mass production
Part aircraft, part munition, the Roadrunner is a lethally-armed, twin-engined jet designed by US defence start-up Anduril to cheaply intercept and destroy high-density aerial threats, including cruise missiles, UAVs and some crewed aircraft – or return to base for refuelling and subsequent flights.
Air Transat and Porter Airlines plan to take on Canada’s top airlines together
With plans to become more closely intertwined, Canadian carriers Air Transat and Porter Airlines are offering a “strong third option” to Air Canada and WestJet.
USCG to acquire more former Navy H-60s amid shift to all-Sikorsky helicopter fleet
The US Coast Guard (USCG) has received approval to acquire another 20 former US Navy Sikorsky H-60 helicopters, a move coming as the service looks eventually to operate an all-Sikorsky MH-60T helicopter fleet.
USCG receives first new airframe for MH-60T Jayhawk refurbishments
The US Coast Guard (USCG) has received from Sikorsky the first bare-bones airframe under a project to keep the service’s MH-60T Jayhawk medium-lift rescue helicopters flying into the 2040s.
Canada signs to acquire 14 Boeing P-8As for multi-mission aircraft replacement programme
The Canadian government has agreed to purchase at least 14 Boeing P-8A Poseidon multi-mission aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to start in 2026.
‘We’ve done everything required’: Connect Airlines chief blasts US regulators over certification delays
US start-up carrier Connect Airlines is pushing back against aviation regulators for allegedly stifling its ambitions of launching flights between Canada and the USA and decarbonising regional air travel with hydrogen propulsion technology.
Atlas Air takes delivery of third 777F on behalf of MSC Mediterranean
US carrier Atlas Air has taken delivery of its third of four Boeing 777 Freighters placed on long-term aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance agreements with MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company.
2024 World Air Forces directory: how major conflicts impacted global fleet
Air forces are maintaining a high operational tempo, including performing combat duties in Europe and the Middle East. Our annual review details the global military fleet and nations’ procurement plans.
Pratt & Whitney wins sole-source contract for F-35 engine upgrade
Although the Pentagon had already declared its intent to advance the Engine Core Upgrade programme for the F135 engine, the sole-source contract announcement solidifies Pratt & Whitney’s position as the F-35 propulsion supplier for another decade.
Porter Airlines orders 25 more Embraer 195-E2s
Canada’s Porter Airlines has placed firm orders for 25 more Embraer 195-E2s – on top of 50 existing orders – in a deal valued at $2.1 billion.
FAA orders airlines to inspect lightning protection features on all 747 variants
The Federal Aviation Administration is ordering airlines to inspect fuel-tank lightning-protection features on all Boeing 747 variants because some components are degrading faster than expected.
Electra secures deposits from Bristow for five short take-off and landing aircraft
US hybrid-electric aircraft developer Electra has taken early deposits from helicopter specialist Bristow Group for five of its proposed short take-off and landing aircraft.
Textron plans job cuts at Bell and Textron Systems divisions
Textron is cutting 725 jobs at three divisions including subsidiary helicopter maker Bell, part of a restructuring aimed at cutting costs.
GlobalX launches subsidiary UrbanX Air to operate air taxis in South Florida
Global Crossing Airlines Group, which operates the charter airline GlobalX, has created a wholly owned subsidiary known as UrbanX Air to operate the company’s anticipated fleet of electric air taxis in South Florida.
Spirit’s management shake up continues as Marnick leaves COO role
Longtime Spirit AeroSystems executive Samantha Marnick has left the company and her role as chief operating officer, a change the company describes as part of an effort to improve its operation and product quality.
Pentagon invests $3.7m in composites manufacturer Qarbon Aerospace
The contract with Texas-based Qarbon Aerospace will support the design and manufacture of advanced lightweight continuous fibre thermoplastic composite structures intended for national defence aviation applications.
Atlas orders pair of Boeing 777Fs
Atlas Air Worldwide has ordered two additional Boeing 777 Freighters to be delivered in the second half of 2024.
Air Transat and Porter plan closer collaboration through joint venture
Canadian operators Air Transat and Porter Airlines have agreed to coordinate flight schedules and routes under a new joint venture aimed at helping both carriers expand.
Elbit’s DIRCM system to protect Canadian A330 tankers
Canada’s future fleet of Airbus Defence & Space A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transports (MRTTs) will be equipped with self-protection equipment from Elbit Systems.
US Navy hopes to restore crashed Hawaii P-8 to flight status
Salvage operations are under way in Hawaii following the crash of a Boeing P-8 maritime patrol jet, with the US Navy optimistic that it can recover the aircraft and restore it to flight status.
Atlas Air Worldwide appoints Artem Gonopolskiy chief financial officer
Atlas Air Wordwide’s board of directors has named Artem Gonopolskiy as the company’s permanent chief financial officer, after he had filled the role for several months on an interim basis.
How Hydroplane founder is drawing on her stellar engineering talent
In her role as chief executive of zero-emission general aviation propulsion developer Hydroplane, Anita Sengupta is drawing on some out-of-this-world engineering experience at NASA.
US Navy prepares for recovery of crashed P-8A in Hawaii
The US Navy is preparing for the recovery of a Boeing P-8A Poseidon that crashed into the sea while attempting to land at a military base in Hawaii.
Embraer predicts ‘wave’ of E-Jet orders as company continues operational turnaround
Embraer executives say demand for E-Jets is lagging a broader boom for larger aircraft like Airbus and Boeing narrowbodies. Soon, they say, airlines will turn more attention to E-Jets to fill a market-segment gap.
Stratolaunch completes fuelled taxi test ahead of first hypersonic flight
The California start-up completed a taxi test of its two-aircraft captive carry hypersonic flight system, for the first time loaded with live propellant, as the company moves towards its first hypersonic flight before year’s end.
BAA Training signs for 48 Cessna Skyhawk trainer aircraft
Lithuania-headquartered BAA Training has agreed to buy 48 examples of Textron Aviation’s Cessna Skyhawk aircraft, which are expected to be delivered in 2026.
FAA clears Boeing to start 737 Max 10 certification flights
The Federal Aviation Administration has approved Boeing to begin the certification flight-test programme for its 737 Max 10, moving the manufacturer closer to completing the aircraft’s long-delayed certification effort.
KlasJet obtains authorisation for Canadian wet-lease operations
Lithuanian private and corporate charter carrier KlasJet has obtained Canadian approval for wet-lease operations in the country.
General Atomics touts STOL wing for MQ-9B after Mojave carrier debut
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems sees the UK and several other nations as potential future customers for a version of its MQ-9B unmanned air vehicle adapted for short take-off and landing (STOL) operations.
Avelo to exit four markets and seasonally suspend nine routes
US ultra-low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines is exiting four markets that did not develop as planned and intends to seasonally suspend a further nine routes.
US Court approves SAS’ investment agreement with Castlelake consortium
A US court has approved Scandinavian operator SAS’ entry into a formal investment agreement with Castlelake, Air France-KLM, the Danish government and financing company Lind Invest.
‘Kinetic and non-kinetic’ solutions needed to defend against uncrewed aircraft: Pentagon
The US military’s top officer focused on countering uncrewed aerial systems says addressing the growing threat will require a mix of offensive and defensive equipment, including interceptor missiles, electronic warfare and microwave and laser-based systems.
Frontier seeks further foothold in Midwest USA with trio of planned crew bases
Seeking to bolster its presence in the Midwest USA, ultra low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines plans to open crew bases in Chicago, Cleveland and Cincinnati early next year.
Piasecki wins $37m AFWERX funding for tilt-duct aircraft
The multi-year funding through the AFWERX programme and Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) will see Piasecki showcase in flight its Aerial Reconfigurable Embedded System (ARES) tilt-duct unmanned air vehicle and a ZeroAvia fuel cell propulsion system.
US Navy P-8A overshoots runway and ends up in sea
A US Navy Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft has crashed into the sea after attempting to land at a military base on the Hawaiian island of Oahu.
Boeing moves toward low-rate production of MH-139 nuclear patrol helicopter
With delivery of the sixth and final test aircraft, Boeing has completed the research and development phase of the MH-139A Grey Wolf programme, now moving toward low-rate initial production on the helicopter that will be used to patrol the silos housing the USA’s nuclear-armed intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Propulsion start-up Universal Hydrogen names first chief financial officer
US propulsion developer Universal Hydrogen has named long-time Nikola executive Anastasiya Pasterick as chief financial officer, effective on 4 December.
Lockheed unveils LED-based flight simulator promising significant reduction in training cost
Billed as a generational leap in simulator technology, fighter manufacturer Lockheed Martin says replacing domed projector screens with LED displays in flight simulators will offer better performance, simplified maintenance and significantly reduced operating costs.
Electra's hybrid-electric Goldfinch prototype takes first flights
US hybrid-electric aircraft developer Electra’s short take-off and landing EL-2 Goldfinch prototype has gotten off the ground for the first time.
UAE targets domestic development of VRT light helicopters as Russian partnership disolved
Development of the VRT500 and VRT300 co-axial light helicopters looks set to continue in the United Arab Emirates under the leadership of the country’s Strategic Development Fund (SDF) after it ditched its former partner Russian Helicopters.
Connect Airlines vows to appeal DOT decision to revoke certificate
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has revoked certificate authority from Waltzing Matilda Aviation, the Massachusetts company that owns start-up regional carrier Connect Airlines.
FAA taking ‘immediate action’ to implement improvements to ATC safety
Following the publication of a damning report on the state of US air traffic control (ATC) operations earlier this week, the Federal Aviation Administration has said it is taking “immediate action” to enhance training and safety reporting.
Airbus to study ‘little understood’ hydrogen contrails with Blue Condor glider
Airbus’ innovation arm UpNext has conducted an 100% hydrogen-powered flight of a modified glider it is using to study contrails produced by hydrogen propulsion systems.
Overair targeting Texas with planned air taxi operations
US electric aircraft developer Overair is collaborating with Texas officials on air taxi operations at Dallas-Forth Worth International airport and in the city of Arlington.
Elroy Air’s Chaparral C1 makes maiden flight
Elroy Air’s autonomous turbogenerator-hybrid electric vertical take-off and landing (hVTOL) cargo drone Chaparral C1 has flown for the first time.
Suppliers seek to renegotiate loss-making contracts with Airbus and Boeing
Aircraft makers are facing increasing pressure to renegotiate discounted supplier contracts that have turned unprofitable amid slow production, high inflation and other post-pandemic business challenges.
Air Chateau plans to purchase Archer air taxis
Dubai helicopter operator Air Chateau has signalled its intention to possibly acquire a fleet of electric air taxis from Archer Aviation.
Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker: November 2023 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Pratt & Whitney lands contract to maintain B-52 and E-3 engines
Engine maker Pratt & Whitney (P&W) has won a Pentagon contract valued up to $870 million for sustainment of TF33 engines, which power Boeing B-52H heavy bombers and Boeing E-3 Sentry airborne early warning jets.
Delta and Air Baltic launch codeshare partnership
Delta Air Lines and Latvia’s Air Baltic have launched a codeshare partnership due to begin this month.
Alaska Air Cargo takes delivery of freighter-converted 737-800
Alaska Airlines’ cargo arm has added its first Boeing 737-800 as it plans to increase “flexibility and capacity” on routes throughout Alaska and the contiguous USA.
Safety review team says US airspace at “significant risk” for accidents
A comprehensive report by an independent review committee has found the US national airspace system (NAS) and air traffic control organisation (ATO) full of risks for potential accidents.
Aurora proposes fan-in-wing aircraft for DARPA Sprint competition
Revealing the second of four designs for DARPA’s Speed and Runway Independent Technologies aircraft development programme, Boeing subsidiary Aurora is opting for a blended-wing-body approach using fan-in-wing rotors for vertical lift.
NATO to buy six Boeing E-7A Wedgetails for initial AEW&C transformation
NATO plans to acquire six Boeing E-7A Wedgetail aircraft for introduction from early next decade, as part of preparations to draw down its veteran Boeing E-3A airborne warning and control system fleet.
Wright Electric and Axter flight test hybrid-electric system on Thrush S2R
Start-up Wright Electric has completed test flights of a hybrid-electric modified crop-dusting aircraft and has squeezed more power out of a separate electric motor it is developing to power regional passenger aircraft.
Secretive US ‘spaceplane’ will return to orbit on SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket
The Boeing X-37 Orbital Test Vehicle, operated by the US Space Force, will return to orbit atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy booster for its seventh long-endurance flight mission.
Cargojet names co-chief executives to succeed Ajay Virmani
Canada’s Cargojet has named two long-time members of its C-suite team as co-chief executives, with current CEO Ajay Virmani to become executive chairman.
US airlines welcome Dutch government’s about-face on Schiphol slot cuts
US airlines are celebrating news that the Dutch government has backed off a plan to reduce the number of flights at Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport next year.
Air Canada boosting capacity in Asia-Pacific
Air Canada plans to increase capacity in the Asia-Pacific region through the next Northern Hemisphere summer as it seeks to capitalise on stronger-than-expected demand for trans-Pacific air travel.
Boeing 737 deliveries crept along in October but sales momentum continues
Boeing’s 737 delivery pace remained slow in October though the aircraft manufacturer landed a major 737 sale in the period and continued building its backlog of 787 orders.
Continued demand may prolong E175 production into 2030s
Embraer could continue building its E175 into the 2030s as continued airline demand and a lack of scope-clause relief in the USA combine to extend the regional jet’s expected production life.
DARPA selects competitors for high-speed vertical take-off and landing aircraft
Four manufacturers will compete to build an experimental, special operations-focused platform capable of combining jet aircraft speeds with the versatility of vertical take-off and landing.
Joby and Volocopter fly air taxis in New York City
Two air taxi makers descended on New York City on 12 November to show the capabilities of their electric aircraft ahead of planned operations as soon as 2025.
‘Amazing momentum’ has C-390 prospects soaring, Embraer defence chief says
Embraer is aiming to close out an already great year for its C/K-390 airlifter by securing additional orders, while it also eyes longer-term opportunities in the Middle East.
Boeing 777-9 edges towards formal certification test phase
Boeing is edging towards type inspection authorisation from the US FAA for its 777-9, the point at which it will commence the formal certification testing demonstration for the twinjet.
Silver Airways refreshes livery with repainted ATR turboprop
US regional carrier Silver Airways has revealed a new livery for its fleet of ATR turboprops.
CommuteAir sticking with ‘workhorse’ ERJ-145s while exploring ‘larger gauge’ jets
US regional carrier CommuteAir is sticking with Embraer ERJ-145s as its mainstay regional jet after acquiring last month a single E170 for planned charter operations.
Flight of the Raider: B-21 lifts off for the first time
The next-generation stealth bomber, under development by Northrop Grumman for the US Air Force, made its first flight on 10 November from the secretive Plant 42 industrial facility in the California high desert.
American Airlines applies for Haneda slots and plans more Caribbean flying in 2024
One day after United Airlines submitted an application to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to operate more flights to Tokyo’s Haneda airport, Fort Worth-based rival American Airlines has done the same.
Charter carrier GlobalX loses $4.9m amid Q3 pilot hiring spree
South Florida start-up carrier Global Crossing Airlines (GlobalX) reports a third-quarter loss of $4.89 million as it ramped up pilot hiring to keep pace with its rapidly growing fleet.
United Airlines’ customer chief on ‘day of travel’ power of the airline app
While United Airlines' customers are able to engage across a range of platforms and timeframes, for the carrier's chief customer officer Linda Jojo many of the advances with airline apps centre around their ability to support ‘day of travel’ functionality.
Airbus launches autonomous aircraft division in the USA
Citing growing demand for uncrewed aviation assets within the US Department of Defense, Airbus is establishing a division with within its American subsidiary focused on developing new UAV platforms.
FAA will establish rulemaking committee on pilot mental health
The US Federal Aviation Administration will establish an aviation rulemaking committee to examine issues around pilot mental health after several recent incidents shed new light on the problem.
Archer keeps burning cash on quest for scaled air taxi operations
US air taxi maker Archer Aviation reports a third-quarter cash position significantly lower than the one it held on 30 September of last year. .
Hanwha Aerospace moves engine business to Connecticut and seeks closer ties with Pratt and GE
To forge closer ties with suppliers and with prime customers Pratt & Whitney (P&W) and GE Aerospace, South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace has moved the headquarters of its International Engine Business to Connecticut.
Wheels Up loses $145m in Q3 but aims for operating profit in 2024
Charter aircraft provider Wheels Up lost $145 million in the third quarter of 2023, but executives insist a network overhaul, a partnership with Delta Air Lines and new financing position it to turn operationally profitable next year.
United applies to US regulators for operating slots at Tokyo’s Haneda airport
United Airlines has applied to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to operate daily nonstop flights to Tokyo’s Haneda airport from Bush Intercontinental airport in Houston, intending to acquire slots vacated by Delta Air Lines earlier this year.
Joby bucks competitors by pushing adoption of its ‘universal’ electric charging system
US air taxi maker Joby Aviation is pushing for the electric aviation sector to adopt its system for charging aircraft rather than the automotive-based standards recently proposed by competing start-ups Archer Aviation and Beta Technologies.
US airlines gearing up for ‘busiest ever’ Thanksgiving holiday travel period
US airlines are gearing up for a major holiday travel weekend as demand for air travel over the upcoming Thanksgiving travel period is higher than both last year and pre-pandemic 2019.
First Boeing T-7A arrives at California air base for flight testing
The first example of Boeing’s T-7A Red Hawk has arrived at Edwards AFB in California, as Boeing and the US Air Force (USAF) progress through flight testing toward low-rate production of the new jet trainer.
Spirit moves to raise $400 million and push back $1.2 billion debt repayment
Spirit AeroSystems is taking steps to strengthen its financial foundations by seeking to raise $400 million in cash and to restructure $1.2 billion in debt.
P&W’s defective disk issue found to affect more business jet engines
Dozens of Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307 turbofans on Dassault Aviation business jets may contain disks with the same manufacturing defect affecting more than 1,000 Pratt & Whitney (P&W) PW1100Gs.
Frontier to open crew base in Cleveland with 400 employees
US ultra-discounter Frontier Airlines plans to open a crew base that will employ hundreds at Cleveland Hopkins International airport starting in March.
F-15EX prices exceed those of F-35As in latest USAF contract for 48 fighters
The US Air Force and Boeing have finalised terms for the next three rounds of production for F-15EX fourth-generation fighters, covering 48 aircraft valued at $3.9 billion.
Airbus emerges from three-year probation after fraud-inquiry settlements
Airbus has formally emerged from a three-year probation period imposed after corruption investigations conducted by three national jurisdictions.
Sun Country stymied by captain availability on way to modest Q3 profit
Sun Country Airlines reports earning $7.6 million during the third quarter as chief executive Jude Bricker cited the lack of pilots upgrading to captain as a persistent problem.
Cargojet’s Q3 profits dip amid cooling air freight market
Canada’s Cargojet Airways reports a third-quarter profit of C$10.5 million ($7.63 million) – versus marking C$83.4 million during the same period last year – amid cooling demand for air cargo.
Eve doubles third quarter R&D spending as it starts building air taxi prototype
Electric air taxi developer Eve Air Mobility reports high spending on research and development during the third quarter as it starts assembling its first prototype ahead of a planned 2024 flight-test campaign.
US Navy to field Stormbreaker precision bomb on F/A-18 fleet
The Raytheon-made guided munition, fielded under the designation Small Diameter Bomb-II, has already been certificated for service with the Boeing F-15 and is in the process of being integrated into the full three-variant fleet of F-35 fighters.
Archer and Beta call for standardised electric air taxi charging systems
A pair of leading air taxi developers on opposite coasts of the USA – California’s Archer Aviation and Vermont’s Beta Technologies – are working together to “spur the widespread roll-out” of shared charging infrastructure for electric aircraft.
Embraer CEO sees US pilot shortage as ‘improving’
Embraer’s chief executive sees his company’s recent success selling regional jets to US carriers as signifying that a shortage of pilots is easing.
F-35B test pilots complete first rolling vertical landing at night on UK carrier
Building on a series of flight evaluations with the UK Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales, test pilots with the US Marine Corps successfully completed a night-time rolling vertical landing on to the UK’s newest aircraft carrier.
Eve names trio of systems suppliers for in-development air taxi
Air taxi developer Eve Air Mobility has identified a trio of systems suppliers for its proposed five-person electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
Condor now selling Alaska Airlines flights through codeshare
Oneworld carrier Alaska Airlines and German leisure specialist Condor have expanded their codeshare agreement, allowing Condor to market and sell more than 70 routes throughout the USA.
FedEx encourages pilots to move to regional carrier PSA as cargo demand slumps
FedEx Express is encouraging pilots to move to regional passenger carrier PSA Airlines as direct-entry captains, with the opportunity to flow through to legacy American Airlines. The regional carrier is sweetening the deal with a $250,000 signing bonus.
China Eastern orders 25 GEnx turbofans for 787s and Xiamen picks Leap-1A for A320neos
GE Aerospace and its affiliate CFM International have landed new orders from Chinese carriers for both GEnx-1B and Leap-1B turbofans.
Ukraine’s Supernova plans all-cargo transatlantic services to US destinations
Ukrainian carrier Supernova Airlines is seeking to open widebody freighter services to US destinations, initially New York.
Reliable Robotics embracing radar as integral part of autonomous flight system
Viewing radar technology as critical for developing its remote-autonomous flight system, California start-up Reliable Robotics has chosen industry expert Marc Pos to lead its radar design.
US government approves US airlines’ complaints about Amsterdam capacity cuts
The US government has approved complaints by JetBlue Airways and trade group Airlines for America against the government of the Netherlands and European Union for alleged violations related to capacity cuts at Amsterdam Schiphol airport.
US NTSB to hold pilot mental health forum in December
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will hold a roundtable discussion on pilot mental health after several recent incidents have come to light in which pilots apparently suffered mental breakdowns.
Canada’s Flair Airlines plans to step up flying to USA in 2024
Canadian discount carrier Flair Airlines’ summer schedule for 2024 includes twice as much flying to the USA and new routes to Quebec City and Guadalajara, Mexico.
Allegiant loses $25m in third quarter amid ‘modest demand decline’
Allegiant Travel Company posted a $25.1 million loss during a third quarter that increasingly appears to have been a slow period for US low-cost carriers.
Allegiant’s first 737 Max delivery pushed to 2024
US-based ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air reports that delivery of its first Boeing 737 Max has been delayed until next year.
Bombardier sticks to 2023 delivery target as other aerospace companies reset expectations
Bombardier still expects to meet its full-year 2023 aircraft delivery target despite supply chain struggles that have prompted other aerospace manufacturers to curtail delivery expectations.
Joby remains in strong cash position as it breaks even in Q3
US electric aircraft developer Joby Aviation roughly broke even during a third quarter in which it passed several milestones on its intended path to commercial air taxi operations in 2025.
Spirit AeroSystems seeks to renegotiate contracts with Airbus as losses pile up
Spirit AeroSystems is working to renegotiate loss-making supply contracts with Airbus and to refinance more than $1 billion in debt coming due in 2025, efforts executives describe as requiring urgent attention.
Spirit AeroSystems loses $204 million in Q3 amid surging expenses and costly rework
Costly fuselage rework and increased supply chain and labour expenses pushed US aerostructures manufacturer Spirit AeroSystems to a $204 million loss in the third quarter of 2023.
Canada’s Helijet International places firm orders for four Beta air taxis
British Columbia-based helicopter operator Helijet International has placed firm orders for four of Beta Technologies’ Alia air taxi.
Gulfstream adds manufacturing capacity in Savannah for G400s, G500s and G600s
Gulfstream has completed an expansion in Savannah of the manufacturing facility where it assembles G400, G500 and G600 business jets, leaving the company prepared to increase output.
JetBlue expects P&W engine issues to ground at least six aircraft through 2024
JetBlue Airways expects six of its Airbus A321neos to be grounded by Pratt & Whitney (P&W) engine issues by year’s end – and for that number to rise.
JetBlue lost $153m in Q3 as air-travel demand failed to keep up
Operational troubles and too many seats in the USA pushed JetBlue Airways to a $153 million loss in the third quarter of 2023, prompting the airline to trim its capacity.
Air Transat targets first flights to Africa in 2024
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat is targeting Africa for the first time with plans to launch flights between Montreal and Marrakesh, Morocco in June.
WestJet completes integration of discount subsidiary Swoop
Canadian airline company WestJet Group recently completed the integration of former low-cost subsidiary Swoop into its primary WestJet operation.
Finally steady Air Canada makes C$1.25 billion third-quarter profit
Air Canada’s slow and painful recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic appears mostly in the rear-view mirror as the carrier reports reaching more stable ground during the third quarter.
Mexico’s VivaAerobus posts $56m profit during third quarter
Mexican low-cost carrier VivaAerobus earned $56 million during the third quarter of 2023, its second consecutive quarter with a profit, as demand was high and fares improved.
SkyWest profitable in Q3 as block hours fall
US regional carrier SkyWest Airlines earned $23.5 million during the third quarter, down from $48.3 million last year as it flew 10% fewer block hours.
SkyWest orders 19 new E175s to fly on behalf of United
US regional carrier SkyWest Airlines will acquire 19 new Embraer 175s to fly under contract for United Airlines.
United plans flights to 38 European destinations next year
United Airlines will fly to 38 European destinations during the 2024 northern hemisphere summer travel season, including the only flight between the New York City metropolitan area and Faro, Portugal, as well as new connections to Reykjavik, Brussels, Rome and Malaga.
Beta delivers first electric aircraft to USAF
The Vermont-based aircraft manufacturer flew one if its conventional take-off variant Alia types from the northeastern USA to Eglin AFB in Florida, delivering the fully-electric platform to the US Air Force for evaluation.
Southwest third-quarter profit falls 30% to $193m as expenses rise
Southwest Airlines reported a 30% decline in profit as increasing costs outweighed strong leisure demand and additional ancillary and loyalty programme revenue during the summer travel season.
Southwest orders 108 Boeing 737s and takes more order options
Southwest Airlines has restructured its order book with US airframer Boeing, planning to receive up to 216 more 737 Max between 2023 and 2031.
Frontier reports lacklustre Q3 results as it struggles in ‘over-saturated’ core markets
Frontier Group Holdings struggled with soft third-quarter demand in its core markets and operational difficulties that company executives attribute to air traffic controller shortages.
Frontier adopting European ultra-discounter strategies amid ATC-related disruptions
Biffle describes how the Denver ultra-low-cost carrier is shifting its network and capacity strategy partly in response to ongoing operational difficulties it attributes to ATC staffing shortages.
Northrop expects B-21 low-rate production contract by year-end
Defence contractor Northrop Grumman says it remains on track to fly the secretive B-21 Raider stealth bomber before the end of 2023, with the US Air Force expected to issue the company a low-rate initial production contract for the type shortly after that milestone.
Spirit Airlines posts ‘disappointing’ third-quarter results on price weakness
Spirit Airlines lost $158 million in the third quarter of 2023 as the carrier experienced price weakness in its core markets.
Air Inuit’s 737-800 freighters to be converted by Aeronautical Engineers
Canadian operator Air Inuit has selected US-based Aeronautical Engineers to convert three Boeing 737-800s into freighter configuration.
JetBlue urges DOT ’countermeasures’ against KLM over potential Schiphol slot losses
JetBlue Airways recently called on the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to retaliate against Dutch carrier KLM if JetBlue is expelled from Amsterdam’s Schiphol International airport due to capacity cuts.
JetBlue adds Dublin and Edinburgh to its European palette
JetBlue Airways is adding Dublin and Edinburgh to its palette of European destinations beginning in March.
Boeing pushing production rates to keep suppliers ‘hot’ despite delivery slowdown
While Boeing will deliver fewer than expected 737s this year due to a quality problem, the company is broadly working to speed up the pace of its entire 737 production system, aiming to hit a 38-monthly rate this year.
Overair nears assembly of prototype with flight testing on near horizon
After completing ground testing of its propulsion system last year, Southern California’s Overair is focusing on building and flying the production prototype of its ”Butterfly” air taxi.
NTSB sends team to investigate Houston-Hobby midair collision
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has sent a six-person team to investigate an incident in which two business jets collided on 24 October.
Gulfstream pulls back 2023 delivery forecast and still hopes for G700 approval this year
Gulfstream has become the latest aerospace company to trim its 2023 delivery goals as supply chain troubles prove more difficult to overcome than some industry executives suspected.
Northrop begins B-21 taxi testing ahead of first flight
The US Air Force confirms its next-generation stealth bomber is conducting ground taxi activities as part of a testing regimen leading up to the jet’s first flight by year-end.
Pipistrel joins USAF electric aircraft effort
Textron subsidiary Pipistrel joins other electric aircraft manufacturers in the US Air Force’s Agility Prime initiative, which aims to explore potential military applications for battery-powered aviation.
Michael Whitaker confirmed as administrator of the FAA
The US Senate on 24 October unanimously confirmed Michael Whitaker as administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, ending an 18-month period of uncertainty regarding the agency’s long-term leadership.
Fixed-price defence contracts to weigh on Boeing until at least 2025
Led by cost challenges on the VC-25B presidential aircraft programme, Boeing’s defence business lost $924 million in the third quarter of 2023, with top executives warning recovery will not come until as late as 2026.
Archer’s Midnight air taxi hovers for first time
Archer Aviation’s Midnight aircraft has hovered off the ground, a milestone in the company’s progress toward certification and commercialisation of its air taxi design.
Boeing trims 737 delivery forecast as it posts $1.6bn third-quarter loss
Boeing has pared back the number of 737s it expects to deliver this year amid a quality issue involving pressure bulkheads, and lost $1.6 billion in the third-quarter of 2023.
Caribbean carriers seek collaborations to attract Latin American vacationers
As small Caribbean and Central American airlines struggle with taxation and infrastructure issues that also plague their much larger Latin American peers, the carriers are working on creative ways to boost connectivity and attract an increasingly travel-savvy South American clientele to their part of the hemisphere.
Defective disks push P&W to $2.5bn third-quarter loss as executives stress recovery plan
RTX executives insist Pratt & Whitney (P&W) has a workable plan to address a defective disk problem that forced it to recall thousands PW1100Gs engines and that pushed the company deep into the red during the third quarter.
Hawaiian Holdings loses $49m amid Q3 engine issues and sagging demand
Hawaiian Holdings reported a second-quarter loss of $48.7 million during the third quarter as the airline company continues to be affected by engine issues and the Maui wildfires.
Pratt reveals other GTF variants have disk defect but predicts minimal A220 and E-Jet impact
Two other Pratt & Whitney (P&W) geared turbofan variants are affected by the powdered-metal manufacturing problem now disrupting operators of PW1100G-powered Airbus A320neo-family aircraft.
Hawaiian expects P&W engine issues to ground up to four A321s through first quarter
Chief executive Peter Ingram describes how the company is being affected by RTX and subsidiary Pratt & Whitney’s recall of thousands of PW1100G geared-turbofan engines.
GE Aerospace trims 2023 Leap delivery target amid ‘supplier delinquencies’
GE Aerospace’s CFM International joint venture will likely deliver fewer than planned Leap turbofans this year amid sticky supply chain issues and robust demand for new aircraft engines and services.
GE expects to become standalone aerospace business in second quarter 2024
General Electric expects to complete the divestiture of its energy division Vernova at the start of the second quarter of next year, leaving GE Aerospace as its sole surviving entity.
Class-action lawsuit alleging Archer misled investors dismissed
A class-action lawsuit alleging that Archer Aviation and its top executives misled investors about progress toward certification of its air taxi has been dismissed.
Severe bird-strike punctured cockpit of descending A320
US investigators have disclosed that a bird-strike involving a Delta Air Lines Airbus A320 last year was severe enough to penetrate the fuselage and affect pressurisation.
US Army delivers FARA engines to Bell and Sikorsky
The delivery of the GE Aerospace T901 Improved Turbine Engines to the two finalists for the US Army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft competition sets up Sikorsky and Bell to fly their prototype designs in 2024.
Spirit grounded A320s for airframe bracket inspections: FAA
The inspections that recently grounded 25 Spirit Airlines’ jets and caused dozens of flight cancellations across the carrier’s network involve potential fatigue cracking around airframe brackets on Airbus A320-family aircraft.
Air Canada begins retrofitting cabins of A320-family jets
The Montreal-based carrier recently rolled out changes to its Airbus A320 cabins, including new exterior cameras, upgraded seating, larger overhead bins, Bluetooth audio and colourful LED lighting throughout the cabin.
Lockheed Martin withdraws bid to produce new USAF aerial tanker
The military airframer’s withdrawal from the US Air Force’s tanker-fleet recapitalisation effort makes it all but certain the service will opt to procure more KC-46 refuellers from Boeing.
JetBlue A321 suffers tail tip at JFK as passengers disembarked
An out-of-balance JetBlue Airways Airbus A321 tilted onto its tail and rested with its nose high in the air while on the ground at John F Kennedy International airport on 22 October.
Jump-seat passenger attempts to 'shut' engines of Horizon 175 during 22 October flight
Pilots of a Horizon Air Embraer 175 regional jet diverted during a flight on 22 October after a person in the cockpit jump seat reportedly attempted to shut down the jet’s engines.
Hydraulic leak and undercarriage wiring probed after FedEx 757 gear-up landing
US investigators have disclosed that a hydraulic system failure just after take-off preceded the gear-up landing by a FedEx Boeing 757-200 freighter at Chattanooga earlier this month.
Honda Aircraft embarks on campaign to certify Echelon as an HA-420 derivative
Honda Aircraft aims for its in-development HondaJet Echelon to be certified as a variant of its existing HA-420 HondaJet, and for both models to share a common pilot type rating.
Atlas Air plans to move into new corporate headquarters
US cargo and charter carrier Atlas Air Worldwide plans to move its corporate headquarters from Purchase to White Plains, New York.
Spirit cancels dozens of flights to inspect 25 A320-family jets
The Florida-based carrier asserts that the cancellations are related to inspecting “a small section” of its aircraft, and that it is working to make arrangements for affected customers.
Air Transat’s CFO Patrick Bui to leave company
Patrick Bui, chief financial officer of Canadian airline company Transat AT, plans to leave his role on 15 December to “pursue another carrer opportunity” as CFO for Canadian discount store chain Dollarama.
Beta logs first electric aircraft flight to Washington, DC air force base
The flight to Andrews AFB near Washington, DC is part of a multi-leg trip from Beta’s headquarters in Vermont to Eglin AFB in Florida, where the company will deliver its all-electric Alia aircraft to the US Air Force for testing.
Frontier names former CFO James Dempsey as president
Frontier Group Holdings has named longtime chief financial officer James Dempsey to president of the company.
Alaska Air Group increases Q3 profits while business travel lags
Alaska Air Group reports increased profits and generated about $2.8 billion of revenue during the third quarter, which company executives attribute to strong operational performance and “cost discipline”.
Alaska strikes deal to sell final 10 A321s to American
Alaska Airlines expects to start delivering the last of its Airbus narrowbodies to American Airlines in the fourth quarter.
American posts $545m Q3 loss as operating expenses rise almost 10%
American Airlines posted a $545 million loss for the third quarter of 2023 as its expenses jumped 9.4% year-on-year, including an almost 17% increase in jet fuel prices and a one-time charge related to its new pilot contract.
American orders four E175s with 2024 deliveries
American Airlines has ordered another four Embraer 175 regional jets, which it intends to deploy into the fleet of its subsidiary regional carrier Envoy Air.
United sees Dreamliner order giving it control of fleet growth plan
United Airlines’ recent order for more Boeing 787-9s reflects the airline seeking to lock in its growth opportunity amid a backdrop of sliding aircraft deliveries.
Top 100 airline groups traffic rankings 2022
Passenger traffic among leading global carriers sharply recovered last year, outpacing the additional capacity they restored and helping load factors climb back above 80%. FlightGlobal’s analysis of the airline industry traffic performance in 2022 based on the top 100 airline groups by revenue passenger kilometre (RPKs).
United banks on international gains amid fourth quarter headwinds
United Airlines executives struck a bullish tone about the strength of international markets, even if the disruption to its Tel Aviv services was a key contributor to a weaker fourth quarter outlook.
‘You could fly the plane’: how a few encouraging words inspired Tailwind’s chief pilot
Tailwind Air chief pilot Maria Maas Pettit remembers the exact moment the idea of becoming a pilot first flashed into her mind.
Sun Country planning summer expansion to Canada
US ultra-low-cost carrier Sun Country Airlines plans to launch new routes from its base in Minneapolis to Montreal and Toronto in June 2024.
Wheels Up’s new chief executive lays out recovery plan as Delta ties tighten
Just two weeks into the job, the new head of Wheels Up arrives as this year’s NBAA business aviation show with a turnaround plan resting on operational rigour, more corporate business, fleet changes and closer ties with 39% owner Delta Air Lines.
Electra believes ‘blown-lift’ eSTOL will take off with corporate customers
Chief product officer Marc Ausman outlines why Electra’s conceptual aircraft could impact the business aviation market.
Tecnam closes on certification for short take-off and landing variant of P2012
Italian airframer Tecnam is nearing European certification for the short take-off and landing (STOL) variant of its P2012 Traveller, with first deliveries slated for January next year.
Volocopter makes NBAA flying debut
German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle developer Volocopter’s 2X prototype made its NBAA flying debut on Tuesday, continuing its charm offensive to convince the public of the appeal of advanced air mobility.
Wisk building autonomous air taxi with plans for first flight in 2024
US air taxi developer Wisk Aero is assembling the production prototype of its sixth-generation aircraft in California and plans to fly the fully autonomous vehicle next year.
United lifts Q3 profits a fifth on strong international demand
United Airlines’ net profits climbed by one-fifth in the third quarter to reach $1.1 billion, in part driven by a strong performance on its international routes in the Atlantic and Pacific regions.
AB Jets orders three Bombardier Challenger 3500 jets
US charter operator AB Jets is adding three super-midsize Bombardier Challenger 3500 jets to its fleet, with the option of ordering a fourth aircraft by the end of 2023.
FlyExclusive named fleet-launch customer for Citation CJ3 Gen2
North Carolina private aviation provider FlyExclusive has been disclosed as the fleet launch customer of Textron Aviation’s newly revealed Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 light jet.
F-35 delivery projections drop below 100 for 2023 amid TR-3 delays
Lockheed Martin now estimates it will deliver just 97 F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters in 2023, despite producing the fifth-generation jets at a rate of 156 per year.
Embraer Executive Jets pushing for sustainable aircraft production
With the difficult-to-abate business aviation sector increasingly embracing carbon-cutting technologies, Embraer Executive Jets is “doing its part”, according to chief executive Michael Amalfitano.
Air Canada stays with GEnx for fresh Boeing 787 order
Air Canada has opted for GE Aerospace GEnx-1B engines to power its latest batch of Boeing 787 Dreamliners ordered last month.
German start-up airline FlyVbird outlines possible deal for up to 50 Eviation aircraft
The all-electric Alice commuter aircraft will potentially be deployed as part of FlyVbird’s proposed app-based, on-demand regional service.
Boeing Business Jets launches ‘BBJ Select’, a streamlined interior design and purchasing process
Boeing Business Jets has unveiled “BBJ Select”, a new offering which allows potential customers to configure aircraft through a modular concept, and simplifies and accelerates the purchasing process.
Honeywell and Supernal developing system for remotely controlled eVTOL operations
Honeywell and South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Group will develop together a ground control station to enable pilotless operations for advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft.
Honda Aircraft renames in-development light jet Echelon and plans for 2026 first flight
Honda Aircraft has renamed its in-development light jet Echelon and disclosed new production and timeline details about the aircraft, formerly known as the 2600.
Tailwind Technologies sells Hartzell Aviation to Arcline Investment Management
Tailwind Technologies has sold Hartzell Aviation to Arcline Investment Management, a private equity firm with $8.9 billion in cumulative capital commitments.
Stratolaunch secures USAF funding for second reusable hypersonic vehicle
The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) will fund a second example of a reusable hypersonic flight vehicle built by American start-up Stratolaunch.
Honeywell reports slowing business jet orders but leaves 10-year delivery forecast unchanged
Honeywell has left its long-term business jet sales forecast unchanged, predicting that manufacturers will deliver 8,500 aircraft over the next 10 years.
NBAA brings business aviation back to Las Vegas
Strong aircraft backlogs and resilient demand for private air travel mean the business aviation industry is approaching 2024 in good shape.
US aviation groups oppose changes to ‘public charter’ rules
Seven prominent aviation groups have expressed opposition to changes to US government rules governing “public charter” aviation companies like JSX – changes that may threaten their ability to operate.
Air Wisconsin pilots ratify three-year contract with 38% pay bump for captains
The deal boosts Air Wisconsin pilots’ combined pay by nearly $48 million over the life of the agreement and concludes negotiations that began in August 2022.
Textron Aviation adding auto throttles to Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 light jet
Textron Aviation is adding an auto-throttle system as standard equipment on its Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 light jet, a move the company says will improve safety and efficiency.
Strong demand helps Delta lift third-quarter net profit to $1.1bn
Delta Air Lines’ net profits climbed 59% to over $1.1 billion in the third quarter, as revenues jumped 11% on continued strong demand.
Court trial in US government’s JetBlue-Spirit case delayed
JetBlue Airways will defend its proposed $3.8 billion acquisition of Spirit Airlines in US district court one week later than expected.
US State Department to launch citizen repatriation flight programme from Israel
The US State Department plans to partner with airlines in launching a repatriation flight programme to evacuate US citizens from the conflict zone in the Middle East.
Delta expects P&W engine issue will impact its operation
Delta Air Lines’ executives expect the impact of Pratt & Whitney PW1100G geared turbofan (GTF) engine recall to be “modest to minimal” on the airline’s Airbus narrowbody operations.
Delta takes ‘not insignificant’ hit due to automobile worker and Hollywood strikes
Delta Air Lines has experienced a “not insignificant” negative change in business travel due to recent strikes in the US automobile and film industries.
Air taxi sector has yet to see collapses or consolidations. Will it last?
Although the field of start-ups promising to revolutionise urban transportation with electric air taxis is increasingly crowded, it could start thinning by the end of next year.
Delta weighs adding flights to Europe amid Israel conflict
Delta Air Lines has cancelled its flights to Israel at least through October as the security situation in the Middle East deterioirates, but says it may add more flights to Europe in order to help get travellers back to the USA.
USAF battling surge of aircraft lasing incidents
The air force says the incidents, which involve commercially available laser pointers, pose a significant safety risk to aircraft and crew.
Embraer rolls out auto-throttle system for Phenom 300Es
Embraer is now offering its Phenom 300E with an optional auto-throttle system, bringing the light jet’s avionics further in line with systems found on larger business jets.
Boeing to study SAF contrails using 737 Max under partnership with NASA and United Airlines
Boeing intends to use a 737 Max 10 to evaluate the environmental effects of burning sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), including its impact on contrail formation.
Congressional dysfunction could impact the US Army’s next-generation aircraft
Political in-fighting has paralysed the US congressional budget process, leaving defence officials scrambling to prepare for funding disruptions that could impact testing and roll-out of new development programmes, including the army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft and Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft.
Archer secures $65m of financing for eVTOL manufacturing facility
US air taxi developer Archer Aviation has secured the “substantial majority” of financing required to complete construction of its electric take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturing facility in Georgia.
Airline Business Podcast: SAS stakes, sustainability and sweet spots
Graham and Lewis discuss the latest consolidation moves in Europe, as Air France-KLM announces plans to take a minority stake in SAS.
A220 stabiliser jams traced to actuator water intrusion
Canadian regulators have ordered Airbus A220 operators to carry out lubrication tasks on the horizontal stabiliser trim actuator, after occurrences of jamming at the end of cruise.
BermudAir pivots away from all-premium seating strategy
Several weeks into operating flights to the East Coast of the USA, BermudAir no longer plans to configure its cabins exclusively with business-class seats.
Report highlights ‘significant’ hurdles associated with sustainable aviation fuel
A new report lays out significant challenges facing the global airline industry’s plan to expand its use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), while predicting wider SAF use will inflate airfares.
General Atomics testing airborne recovery tow line for small UAS
The tow cable, being developed in partnership with helicopter winch manufacturer Breeze-Eastern, would allow large uncrewed aerial vehicles to recover smaller aircraft while in flight for either refit or return to base.
Avelo bumps pilot pay in anticipation of ‘at least five’ 737 deliveries
US start-up Avelo Airlines has raised its pay rates in an effort to attract qualified pilots and support fleet-expansion plans in 2024.
Leap-1A compressor-stall problem prompts FAA to propose inspections
Several high-pressure compressor stalls involving CFM International Leap-1A turbofans have prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to propose new maintenance requirements for the engines.
Huge Ryanair 737 Max deal pushes Boeing’s September orders to 224 aircraft
Ryanair’s massive commitment for the 737 Max 10 pushed Boeing’s total new orders in September to 224 aircraft, while the airframer also made progress ramping up the pace of 787 deliveries.
Top 100 airline group financial rankings 2022
Robust revenues as passenger markets reopened enabled many of the world’s leading airlines to restore profitability in 2022 – but the scars of the pandemic were still evident. FlightGlobal’s analysis of the airline industry financial performance in 2022 based on the top 100 airline groups by revenue.
Mesa seeks to streamline pilot training with ‘pay-as-you-go’ programme
US regional carrier Mesa Airlines launched on 9 October a pilot-training programme built around the company’s recently acquired Pipistrel Alpha 2 light aircraft.
US airlines cancel flights to Israel following attack as safety concerns mount
Major US airlines have suspended flights to Israel and security concerns abound after Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack on the country over the weekend.
Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker: October 2023 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Islander stalled on approach before fatal crash just short of Michigan runway
US investigators believe a Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander stalled at low altitude on approach before fatally crashing short of the runway in Michigan.
Ampaire to develop ‘megawatt-scale’ hybrid powertrain with USAF
Hybrid-electric propulsion developer Ampaire has secured a $1.25 million contract with the US Air Force (USAF) to develop “megawatt-scale hybrid technology” under the service’s Agility Prime programme.
Steadicopter pitching uncrewed armed helicopter to US Army
The Israeli manufacturer of uncrewed rotary aviation systems is bringing its Golden Eagle platform to the USA, showcasing the type’s ability to autonomously identify and track targets, which a remote gunner can then engage with direct-fire weapon systems.
GlobalX expects three Airbus aircraft deliveries within several weeks
US start-up carrier GlobalX will take delivery of its third Airbus A321F on 10 October and plans to soon add two passenger jets.
FAA moves to require autopilot software updates for thousands of small aircraft
Owners of nearly 6,000 small aircraft in the USA may soon need to update their Garmin autopilot software due to a defect that could cause the autopilots to make uncommanded flight-control inputs.
LOT and JetBlue to begin codesharing on US and European flights
JetBlue Airways and Polish carrier LOT intend to begin a codeshare arrangement under which they will jointly sell flights from Europe and the USA.
NTSB urges steps to prevent DHC-3 Otter stabiliser failures
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is urging aviation regulators to require De Havilland Canada DHC-3 Otters be equipped with secondary devices to prevent horizontal stabiliser actuators from separating.
Embraer, Nidec electric propulsion joint venture gets regulatory nod
Nidec Aerospace, the electric propulsion joint venture between Embraer and Japanese electric motor specialist Nidec, has secured regulatory approvals to commence operations, as it targets mass production of electric propulsion systems by 2026.
USMC completes first test flight with autonomous XQ-58
The US Marine Corps now joins the US Air Force as the second operator of the Kratos autonomous fighter jet, with both services using the Valkyrie type to explore how uncrewed platforms could potentially be teamed with conventional fighter aircraft.
Pilot shortage ‘very real’ for US regional carriers struggling to keep aircraft flying
The pilot-supply outlook remains gloomy for regional airlines as hundreds of aircraft are parked – and the shortfall looks likely to reverberate into the 2030s.
CFM scrutinises data from suspect distributor in hunt for unapproved engine parts
Powerplant manufacturer CFM International has identified 126 engines, including a number in its overhaul facilities, which contain parts sourced from AOG Technics – the company embroiled in controversy over allegations of distributing unapproved parts.
FedEx 757 skids along Chattanooga runway during gear-up landing
A FedEx Boeing 757 Freighter made a gear-up landing and skidded off the runway at Chattanooga Metropolitan airport in Tennessee late on 4 October.
Kratos acquires autonomous fifth-generation fighter developer Sierra Technical Services
The sale of the start-up to Kratos, which Sierra’s founder calls both a competitor and teammate, comes soon after the company won a contract with the US Air Force to produce a fifth-generation-style aerial target jet.
Supporters of charter airline JSX push back against effort to change charter rules
An online campaign to shore up support for US public charter airline JSX has been launched as US aviation regulators consider changes to charter operations rules.
California eVTOL developer Joby begins piloted test flights
Air taxi developer Joby Aviation has begun flying its pre-production prototype aircraft with a pilot on board.
US Navy preparing ‘significant’ E-2D modernisation package
The US Navy describes the $845 million upgrade package as the “most significant change” since the iconic airborne early warning turboprop entered service, including new systems to reduce pilot workload, improve situational awareness and boost cybersecurity.
FARA engine delivery expected in coming weeks
Helicopter makers Bell and Sikorsky, finalists for the US Army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) contract, will receive the long-delayed Improved Turbine Engine that will power their prototype designs from GE Aerospace before the end of October.
Collins opens new Illinois electric propulsion laboratory ‘The Grid’
Collins Aerospace has now opened “The Grid”, a long-planned Illinois facility that houses its development of electric and hybrid-electric propulsion technologies for future aircraft.
Allegiant adds options for 30 more jets to Boeing 737 Max deal
Ultra low-cost carrier Allegiant Air has amended its agreement with Boeing to add options for up to 30 more 737 Max, and changed the mix of 737 variants it plans to acquire.
United Airlines to add 110 aircraft to fleet beginning in 2028
United Airlines will add 110 more Boeing and Airbus aircraft to its fleet beginning in 2028, bringing “additional flexibility” for its long-term strategy.
Porter to launch flights from Toronto to Los Angeles and San Francisco
Canada’s Porter Airlines plans to launch its first flights to California early next year as part of an ongoing expansion to the USA.
Allegiant secures $412m of financing for 11 Airbus and Boeing narrowbodies
The carrier currently operates an all-Airbus fleet but has a deal to purchase up to 130 737 Max 7s and Max 8-200s – a high-density variant of the baseline Max 8.
Anduril wins $8m contract for autonomous UAV development
The US Air Force’s AFWERX technology incubator will work with defence start-up Anduril on advancing autonomous flight capabilities, using Anduril’s Ghost UAV as a test platform.
Inquiry suggests air or ice in modified fuel system led PC-12 to ditch during oceanic ferry
US investigators believe a Pilatus PC-12 turboprop with a modified fuel system ditched in the Pacific Ocean after a build-up of ice, or the emergence of air, led to fuel starvation and a loss of engine power.
Pratt & Whitney to supply GTF engines to Boeing X-66A truss-braced-wing demonstrator
Pratt & Whitney will supply geared turbofan (GTF) engines for the truss-braced-wing narrowbody aircraft demonstrator Boeing is developing under a NASA project.
Wright Electric pursues high-energy batteries for larger future all-electric aircraft
Electric aviation propulsion company Wright Electric sees a path to develop aviation batteries with four times the energy density of traditional lithium batteries, a breakthrough that could enable development of larger electric passenger aircraft.
Textron and Griffon Aerospace advance in US Army UAS competition
Seeking a new design replacement for the currently serving Textron RQ-7B Shadow, the US Army has winnowed the field of competitors down from five bids to just two.
NASA alum Deborah Diaz joins ZeroAvia’s board of directors
DIaz joins the hydrogen aviation start-up’s board as a non-executive director and will “help accelerate the company on its strategic journey from innovator to global leader and major supplier of zero-emission aircraft engines”.
Aeromexico will launch 17 new routes to the USA
Mexican carrier Aeromexico has said it will introduce 17 new routes to the USA after the Federal Aviation Administration lifted Mexico’s security status, allowing that country’s carriers to once again expand service accross its northern border.
Alaska retires last Airbus A321s and moves on with all-Boeing fleet
Alaska Airlines’ final revenue flight using an A321 was completed on 30 September, ending an era of operating and maintaining a nonhomogenous fleet.
US lessor ATSG appoints Mike Berger as president
Ohio-headquarted ATSG says that the company’s board of directors has elected Berger, 62, to lead the lessor’s “transformational growth as the market leader in freighter leasing and air operations”.
Beta opens production facility to begin manufacturing Alia air taxis
US air taxi developer Beta Technologies has opened a production facility at Burlington International airport in Vermont, where the company will manufacture and assemble its all-electric Alia aircraft.
Spirit AeroSystems chief executive Gentile resigns after production challenges and labour strike
Tom Gentile, the chief executive of critical aerostructures supplier Spirit AeroSystems, has resigned as head of the key manufacturer after a year marked by production quality challenges and a labour strike.
AOPA’s Richard McSpadden dies in aircraft accident
Richard McSpadden, executive director of the Air Safety Institue at US general aviation lobby group Aircraft Operators and Pilots’ Association, has died in an aviation accident.
US Congress passes bill to fund government, but freezes Ukraine aid
The 45-day spending measure temporarily funds government services, including air traffic control and the military, but put a hold on further aid to Ukraine.
JetBlue denounces capacity cuts in Amsterdam as it risks losing hard-won slots
US low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways has joined US airline industry groups in criticising capacity reductions at Amsterdam Schiphol airport.
US commuter carrier Cape Air continues phasing out high-time Cessna 402s
Cape Air is continuing a long-term transition away from its fleet of high-time Cessna 402s but still envisions flying the twin-engined aircraft well into the future.
Severe flooding disrupts air travel around New York City
Severe flash flooding in and around New York City has caused major disruptions at the region’s three major commercial airports.
Ukrainian pilots arrive in USA for F-16 training
The Pentagon has confirmed that the first Ukrainian air force pilots have arrived in the USA to start F-16 flight training, beginning with English language instruction.
WestJet on track to integrate Sunwing’s 737s by October 2024
Canadian company WestJet Group plans to complete its integration of Sunwing Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737s by October 2024.
United Airlines pilots approve new four-year contract
United Airlines pilots have approved a new contract, according to union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA).
UK competition regulator re-energises inquiry into IAG and Oneworld transatlantic pact
UK competition regulators are to re-energise the long-running probe into the IAG and Oneworld transatlantic joint business arrangement, as the air transport sector continues to recover.
Lack of FAA leadership looms over regional airline conference
Uncertainty surrounding Michael Whitaker’s potential confirmation as administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration – now without a permanent leader for roughly 18 months – is an ongoing source of anxiety for the US regional airline sector.
High winds jammed MD-87’s elevators prior to 2021 Houston crash: NTSB
Jammed elevators due to high wind prior to flight caused the crash during take-off of a Boeing MD-87 near Houston in October 2021, marking another instance of a known hazard.
Allegiant brings back former CEO Gallagher after Redmond departs suddenly
Ultra low-cost carrier Allegiant Air’s former chief executive Maurice Gallagher is back in the airline’s top spot after his successor John Redmond resigned suddenly.
Florida-based cargo start-up 7 Air aims to build 737 freighter fleet
US start-up cargo carrier 7 Air is intending to commence services in February next year, using a fleet of Boeing 737 converted freighters.
Cessna 560 crew failed to release parking-brake before fatal take-off overrun
US investigators have determined that the pilots of a Cessna Citation 560 XLS+ failed to release the aircraft’s parking-brake before it overran the runway on take-off, pitching rapidly up before rolling inverted and crashing into a building.
Archer’s Midnight eVTOL yet to get airborne but ‘will be flying soon’
California air taxi developer Archer Aviation has yet to fly its in-development Midnight aircraft but says it remains on track to hit targets for certification and entry to service.
USAF reveals ‘recent acquisition’ of Su-27 from Ukraine
The Soviet-era fighter arrived in the USA via a private acquisition around 2009 and was traded between several private operators before ending up in the hands of the Pentagon, which will now display the jet at the national air force museum.
BAE Systems lands five-year deal for F-22 electronic warfare support
Under the contract, BAE Systems will continue to manage the air superiority fighter’s AN/ALR-94 electronic-warfare system, providing repairs, upgrades, logistics, test equipment maintenance, depot-level spares and engineering support.
Eviation’s electric commuter aircraft undergoing ‘subtle’ redesign
The Washington-based developer maintains that the adjustments will be minor and that the aircraft’s timeline for certification and service entry remains unchanged.
Universal Hydrogen’s modified Dash 8 flies again as two-year test period commences
Aviation start-up Universal Hydrogen has kicked off an expected two-year process of flight-testing its hydrogen-propulsion modified De Havilland Dash 8-300 turboprop.
Northrop wins USAF contract for new air defence suppression missile
Defence contractor Northrop Grumman has been selected by the US Air Force (USAF) to develop a new air-to-ground missile that could be used to destroy enemy air defence assets.
Class-action lawsuit alleges Archer misled investors about air taxi progress
Filed on 21 September in a California federal court, the suit comes as San Jose-based Archer works to certificate an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft called Midnight that it says could be flying passengers in 2025.
Textron confirms Surf Air Mobility’s order for first 20 Cessna Grand Caravans
Textron Aviation has confirmed California start-up Surf Air Mobility’s order for the first 20 Cessna Grand Caravans to be converted with in-development electric and hybrid-electric powertrain technology.
USAF makes first U-2 flight with avionics upgrade
Manufacturer Lockheed Martin is in the process of upgrading the USAF fleet of Cold War-era high-altitude spy craft with modern computers, cockpit displays and improved communication systems.
SkyWest’s CEO Chip Childs reveals the regional carrier is ‘1,200 pilots short’
Regional airlines continue to be most acutely affected by the USA’s ongoing pilot shortage as SkyWest Airlines remains some 1,200 pilots below its pre-pandemic flight crew staffing levels.
SkyUp looks to branch into US operations after securing authorisation
Ukrainian carrier SkyUp Airlines is aiming to develop US wet-lease and charter services, having secured authorisation to operate in US territory.
American appeals court ruling against collaboration with JetBlue
American Airlines has appealed a court ruling that struck down its so-called ”Northeast Alliance” (NEA) with JetBlue Airways, the Fort Worth-based airline said on 25 September.
US NTSB opens investigation into JetBlue turbulance incident that injured eight
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation into a JetBlue Airways flight which experienced severe turbulence, injuring numerous passengers and one crew.
NASA pursuing new space vehicle to return International Space Station to Earth
The US space agency is asking aerospace suppliers to design a new orbital craft that could be used to perform a controlled de-orbit of the multinational space station, which is scheduled to be decommissioned in 2030.
United Airlines applies for Tokyo Haneda slots vacated by Delta
United Airlines has applied for additional slots to operate flights between the USA and Tokyo’s Haneda International airport after competitor Delta Air Lines renounced the slots last week.
Joby to deliver first air taxi to USAF on 25 September
California air taxi developer Joby Aviation is set to deliver on 25 September an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to the US Air Force, which plans to evaluate the type’s suitability for military missions.
Air Canada orders 18 787-10s and cancels deal for two 777Fs
Air Canada has ordered another 18 Boeing 787s and taken options to purchase a further 12 of the widebody jets as part of broader plan to renew its fleet.
Allegiant A319 took evasive action on take-off to avoid low-altitude inbound Cessna
US investigators have found that an Airbus A319 had to take evasive action on take-off at St Petersburg in Florida, to avoid climbing into the path of an inbound light aircraft which was flying an abnormal pattern to another runway.
Unidentified tool jammed Jazz Dash 8’s landing-gear during test flight
Canadian investigators have disclosed that an unmarked tool jammed the landing-gear of De Havilland Dash 8-400 which was undergoing a post-maintenance test flight earlier this month.
Nearly half of US F-35s not ready to fly
Analysis by auditors at the independent US Government Accountability Office found only 55% of the USA’s Lockheed Martin F-35 fleet was ready to perform assigned missions.
JetBlue-Spirit trial could be delayed by looming US government shutdown
The US Department of Justice’s antitrust trial to block low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways’ acquisition of Spirit Airlines could be delayed if the federal government shuts down for more than two weeks.
United’s Leskinen will succeed Laderman as CFO
United Airlines has named former vice-president of investor relations Michael Leskinen as its next chief financial officer, effective immediately, succeeding Gerry Laderman, who is scheduled to retire from the company in September 2024
How ambition drove Nicole Battjes to form Rainbow Helicopters
Honolulu-based Nicole Battjes built her helicopter tour company from scratch, starting with just $5,000 and a dream. Its assets recently delivered relief supplies after a devastating fire in Lahaina.
Why business aviation leaders are highlighting sector’s environmental gains
With climate activists targeting business aviation, what progress is the sector making towards achieving its sustainability targets?
IAI to establish 777-300ER freighter conversion line in Arizona
Israel Aerospace Industries is set to establish a US-based Boeing 777-300ER freighter conversion line in Arizona from next year.
Air Transat and CAE to build pilot pipeline with new Ascension Academy
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat and CAE have created a new cadet academy to help the airline meet soaring demand for pilots.
Condor to launch flights between Frankfurt and San Antonio in May 2024
The German leisure carrier’s new transatlantic route would be the first non-stop flights between Europe and San Antonio International airport.
Delta and investment partners secure majority ownership of Wheels Up
Charter aircraft provider Wheels Up has closed a deal under which it has secured $450 million in fresh financing from investment partners including Delta Air Lines.
IAero Group files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection
IAero Group, formerly Swift Air, has voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Florida.
Government shutdown could derail air traffic controller training: Buttigieg
US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg has told lawmakers that a looming government shutdown could derail training for thousands of desperately needed air traffic controllers.
FAA exempts Max 7 from lightning rules but requires updates by 2027
The FAA on 19 September approved an exemption relating to lightning and radiation rules, allowing Boeing to proceed with the Max 7’s certification without first addressing non-compliance of the type’s “stall management yaw damper” (SMYD) system.
WestJet brings new Las Vegas flights and expands codeshare with Air France
Canada’s WestJet has added flights from two western cities to Las Vegas to cater to sun-hungry Canadian holiday-makers.
UPS names Bill Moore as next president of UPS Airlines
UPS has named Bill Moore as the next president of UPS Airlines, effective next month.
Canada approved to buy armaments for UAVs it does not yet have
Even though Canada has not yet made a decision in its Remotely Piloted Aircraft System programme, the US government has approved Ottawa to purchase $313 million in armaments for the General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-9B, which is currently the sole competitor for the Canadian contract.
Start-up carrier New Pacific Airlines to launch flights to Reno and Nashville
Recently re-branded US start-up New Pacific Airlines plans to double the size of its burgeoning networks with two new destinations – Reno, Nevada and Nashville, Tennessee.
USMC locates missing F-35 wreckage and pauses flight operations
The Pentagon located the crash site of a US Marine Corps F-35B fighter more than 12 hours after the pilot ejected and the craft went missing.
Northrop plans wide-ranging B-2 upgrades, including new anti-radar coating by year-end
The manufacturer of the iconic flying wing stealth bomber is undertaking a series of modernisations that will make the notoriously difficult-to-maintain B-2 easier to keep flightworthy, more lethal and compatible with the next-generation B-21 Raider stealth bomber.
US military asks for public help in locating missing F-35
The US Marine Corps has been unable to locate the $100 million short take-off and vertical landing Lockheed Martin F-35B after the pilot ejected over South Carolina.
Joby reveals plan to open air taxi manufacturing site in Dayton, Ohio
US air taxi developer Joby Aviation has chosen a site in Dayton, Ohio as the place where it hopes eventually to manufacture an electric aircraft that remains in development and still must achieve certification.
FAA extends slot waivers in Northeast USA through October 2024
The US Federal Aviation Administration has extended slot relief rules at busy airports in the Northeast USA through the end of next year’s summer travel season due to continued air traffic control staffing shortages.
Boeing flight testing Red 6 augmented reality dogfight training system
Recent sorties by a Douglas TA-4J Skyhawk trainer incorporated an augmented reality pilot helmet produced by start-up Red 6, which Boeing hopes to eventually incorporate into its latest T-7A Red Hawk jet trainer.
Beta installs first USAF electric aircraft charging station
The Vermont-based developer of electric aircraft installed the US Air Force’s first-ever electric aircraft charging station at Eglin AFB, Florida, ahead of the planned arrival of Beta’s Alia under a Pentagon contract.
USN awards ‘Multi-Intelligence’ MQ-4C Triton with IOC
The Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton unmanned air vehicle has received initial operating capability (IOC) from the US Navy (USN).
Universal Hydrogen takes ‘key step’ in certification of fuel cell propulsion system
California start-up Universal Hydrogen is a step closer to establishing a certification basis for retrofitting ATR 72 regional turboprops with its fuel cell technology.
Air Transat’s extra engines could spare it from worst of P&W’s engine recall
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat maintains that it will not be immediately impacted by Pratt & Whintey’s recall of PW1100G geared turbofan engines, which power the airline’s fleet of Airbus A321LRs.
Bell begins sled testing on VTOL jet concept
Vertical lift manufacturer Bell has delivered a test article to the US Air Force that aims to demonstrate a novel technology concept that combines the vertical take-off and landing traits of a helicopter with the high-speed horizontal flight of a jet aircraft.
Transat AT posts first profitable quarter since 2019 due to strong leisure demand
The parent of Canadian carrier Air Transat reports on 14 September making C$57.3 million ($43.5 million) during its fiscal third quarter – its first quarterly profit since late 2019.
Northrop begins ground engine tests on B-21
The US Air Force and Northrop Grumman have started engine runs in Palmdale, California as part of the ground-testing programme for the B-21 Raider next-generation stealth bomber.
Mesa Airlines CFO Zubeck to leave US regional carrier
After working for nearly two years as chief financial officer of US regional carrier Mesa Airlines, Daniel Torque Zubeck is resigning from the company effective 15 September.
United’s bookings remain high as hub strategy pays off: Leskinen
As numerous US airlines revised their third-quarter results estimates due to higher fuel prices and lower-than-expected bookings, United Airlines remains committed to the financial guidance it published in July, touting its hub-and-spoke network as well as its United Next strategy.
‘Canary in the coal mine’: Frontier cuts Q3 capacity forecast as bookings sag
Frontier Airlines has cut its capacity forecast for the third quarter based on lower bookings and higher fuel prices, making it the latest North American carrier to lower expectations for the period.
Cuberg CEO outlines battery developer’s plan to enable short-haul electric flights
Previously flying somewhat under the radar, California battery developer Cuberg is now signalling its intentions to be a difference-maker in the electric aviation industry.
Spirit reduces Q3 revenue forecast due to fuel cost bump
Ultra-low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has become the latest US airline to lower its third-quarter revenue forecast based on higher-than-expected fuel costs.
Inflation's 'biggest spike is behind us': Alaska Airlines CFO
Still facing cost increases on some fronts, Alaska Air Group's leadership believes it has successfully navigated the worst of industry-wide inflation related to the Covid-19 pandemic.
US ready to return Mexico to ‘Category 1’ safety status: report
The Federal Aviation Administration is reportedly poised to upgrade Mexico to “Category 1” safety status once again, clearing the way for airlines of both countries to add transborder capacity to their schedules.
L3Harris and BAE deliver first EC-37B to USAF
The latest iteration of the Compass Call electronic warfare aircraft is built on a Gulfstream G500 business jet.
Boeing poised to deliver first T-7 to USAF
Airframer Boeing says the first test version of its next-generation T-7A Red Hawk jet trainer is ready for delivery to the US Air Force, which is expected to accept the aircraft as soon as 12 September.
Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker: September 2023 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Boeing books 45 gross orders in August with 35 deliveries
Boeing took in 45 gross orders in August, with the month’s sales activity dominated by leasing companies, which accounted for 38 of the total.
Lockheed taps Aerojet Rocketdyne for HALO anti-ship missile engine
Lockheed Martin has tapped Aerojet Rocketdyne to power a hypersonic anti-ship missile it is developing under a US Navy contract.
JetBlue decries ‘startling switch in positions’ in federal antitrust lawsuits
JetBlue Airways has accused the US Department of Justice of “taking inconsistent positions” in respective lawsuits to break up JetBlue’s Northeast Alliance with American Airlines and block its proposed acquisiton of Spirit Airlines.
Alaska Boeing 737 damaged due to fractured trunnion pin: NTSB
The US National Transportation Safety Board says in a preliminary report that an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-800 suffered a fractured trunnion pin upon landing in Santa Ana, California last month.
General Atomics prepares for flight testing of uncrewed ‘missile truck’
The producer of combat UAVs is developing an uncrewed, air-launched vehicle for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency that will itself carry and launch currently available air-to-air missiles.
JetBlue commits some Spirit assets in Northeast USA and South Florida to Allegiant
JetBlue Airways has entered a second divestiture agreement with a rival low-cost carrier – this time, Allegiant Air – as part of its bid to acquire Spirit Airlines.
P&W geared turbofan issue will ground hundreds of A320neos through 2026
Airlines will need to remove hundreds of Pratt & Whitney PW1100G geared turbofan (GTF) engines from the wings of Airbus A320neo-family jets by the end of 2024 to inspect for defective high-pressure turbine and compressor discs.
Design and inspection problems preceded 2021 PW4000 failure as nine more cracked blades found: NTSB
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has blamed the 2021 uncontained failure of Pratt & Whitey PW4077 turbofan on engine design and testing failures and on inadequate fan blade inspections.
Northern Pacific Airways to rebrand itself as New Pacific Airlines
US start-up carrier Northern Pacific Airways plans to rebrand itself as New Pacific Airlines rather than fight a trademark lawsuit.
Spirit AeroSystems CEO flags ‘pressures’ affecting composite manufacturing
Spirit AeroSystems’ composite-manufacturing programmes continue to weigh on the company amid escalating costs, slow production rates and a longer-than-anticipated composite-material “learning curve”.
FAA approves Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines for G700 and G800 business jets
Gulfstream says the Federal Aviation Administration has certificated the Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 turbofans which power its G700 and G800 large-cabin business jets.
GlobalX lands deal for financing and construction of new South Florida MRO hangar
US charter carrier GlobalX has reached an agreement with Sheltair Aviation for the financing and construction of a new maintenance facility in South Florida that will support the airline’s fleet growth plan.
Hawaiian to relaunch Kona-Tokyo flights in pandemic recovery milestone
Hawaiian Airlines plans to resume flights between Kona and Tokyo’s Haneda airport in October, marking a milestone in the carrier’s network recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Anduril acquires UAV fighter developer Blue Force Technologies
Autonomous defence technologies start-up Anduril acquired uncrewed aircraft developer Blue Force for an undisclosed sum, with an eye toward the Pentagon’s surging interest in autonomous combat aircraft.
Boeing must inspect thousands of holes on some 165 stored 737 Max
Roughly 165 of the 737 Max 8s in Boeing’s inventory of undelivered aircraft will require detailed inspections and rework to address a recently revealed issue with the jets’ aft-pressure bulkhead.
Avelo opens base in Las Vegas with plans for five new routes
Start-up carrier Avelo Airlines on 7 September opened a new operational base in Las Vegas, the ultra-low-cost carrier’s sixth in the USA.
Insitu unveils precision strike option for Integrator UAV
The Boeing subsidiary says it will now offer a miniature precision munition capability for the company’s Integrator UAV, which the US Navy operates under the designation RQ-21 Blackjack.
Biden nominates airline and air-taxi executive Whitaker as FAA administrator
President Joe Biden intends to nominate Michael Whitaker, who currently works at an air taxi developer but has decades of airline experience, to lead the Federal Aviation Administration.
GE Aerospace joins FLRAA as supplier for Bell
GE Aerospace will provide digital backbone, voice and data recorder, and health awareness system for Bell V-280 Valor, which the US Army selected as its next-generation troop carrying aircraft.
Hawaiian launches ticket sales for Boeing 787 flights
Hawaiian Airlines has begun selling tickets for flights on its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner, set to be delivered to the Honolulu-based carrier in January.
Gulfstream bumps G700’s advertised range up to 7,750nm
Business jet maker Gulfstream has bumped up the advertised maximum speed and range of its in-development large-cabin G700, a move coming as the company works to obtain certification for the delayed programme.
WestJet appoints board members Cruz and Smith as vice-chairs
The WestJet Group has appointed longtime airline executives Alex Cruz and Ben Smith as vice-chairs of its board.
Lockheed delays delivery of F-35 upgrades, prolonging delivery halt until 2024
Airframer Lockheed Martin now says it will not complete flight certification on the series of F-35 computer and communications upgrades known as TR-3, extending the halt on new deliveries by the US government and others.
US carriers adjust Q3 expectations due to surging fuel costs and extreme weather
US airlines are adjusting their third-quarter financial expectations in response to higher-than-anticipated fuel costs and extreme weather events that have disrupted operations throughout North America.
South Korean lessor intends to buy up to 50 Eviation Alice electric aircraft
South Korean leasing company Solyu has signed a letter of intent to purchase 25 of Eviation’s in-development electric commuter aircraft Alice.
USAF test fires three JASSM cruise missiles from single F-15EX
Test pilots with the US Air Force showed the latest variant of the venerable fourth-generation Boeing air superiority fighter can deploy with three precision Lockheed Martin weapons, which boast a range greater than 500nm.
Biman seeks to serve JFK and other US routes if FAA upgrades safety status
Biman Bangladesh Airlines is seeking authorisation to open US services once it secures regulatory confirmation that its aviation oversight is compliant with ICAO standards.
Hawaiian revises Q3 earnings expectations down due to engine issues and Maui wildfire
Hawaiian Airlines has adjusted its third-quarter earnings expectations down following issues with its Pratt & Whitney engines and a devastating wildfire on the island of Maui that reversed the carrier’s third-quarter earnings trends.
GlobalX adds 10th passenger jet and lands contracts for Caribbean operations
US charter carrier Global Crossing Airlines recently accepted delivery of its 10th passenger aircraft, a 20-year-old Airbus A319 that entered service with the airline on 1 September.
Boeing closes 13-strong 737 Max order from Aviation Capital
Aviation Capital Group has ordered 13 more Boeing 737 Max in a deal that brings the aircraft lessor’s total outstanding 737 orders for 47.
United briefly grounds departures nationwide due to ‘technology issue’
A “technology issue” halted the departure of all United Airlines flights nationwide on the last day of the traditionally busy Labour Day holiday long weekend, and the end of the northern hemisphere’s summer travel season.
Mammoth progresses with first 777-200LR freighter conversion for Cargojet
US modification specialist Mammoth Freighters is progressing with its prototype Boeing 777-200LR conversion for freight carrier Cargojet Airways.
Revenues power airlines above 2019 benchmark despite lagging traffic and capacity
The latest Airline Business Index shows the second quarter of this year was marked by soaring revenue and a jump in passenger numbers, as the industry exceeded the 2019 benchmark index score for the first time since the pandemic.
New regional carrier Bermudair completes first flights, to and from Boston
Regional start-up carrier Bermudair launched its first flights from Bermuda to the East Coast of the USA on 1 September after being delayed by supply chain issues and then Hurricane Franklin.
US airlines expect record numbers of passengers over Labour Day long weekend
US airlines are gearing up for one of the busiest weekends of the Northern hemisphere’s summer travel season.
Allegiant decries DOT decision as favouring ‘oligopolistic’ carriers over discounters
Allegiant Air is railing against the US government’s decision to suspend review of the airline’s proposed joint venture with Mexican ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) Viva Aerobus.
Bermudair delays service start due to Hurricane Franklin
Bermudair has delayed its inaugural flights to the USA due to severe weather and now plans to launch 1 September.
Air Nostrum doubles Airlander 10 commitment to 20 aircraft
Spanish airline group Air Nostrum has doubled its commitment for Hybrid Air Vehicles’ (HAV) Airlander 10 to 20 aircraft, delivering a boost to the UK developer ahead of its planned production start and certification campaign.
Bombardier reveals cockpit updates for in-service Global business jets
Bombardier has rolled out an avionics update programme for in-service Global-series large-cabin business jets that includes equipping the jets with a “combined vision system”.
USAF KC-135 crew records ‘St Elmo’s fire’ weather phenomenon during hurricane evacuation
While evacuating their Florida base ahead of Hurricane Idalia, the crew of a US Air Force Boeing KC-135 aerial refueller recorded video of a rare weather phenomenon known as St Elmo’s fire, forming around the aircraft.
USA aims to counter China with ‘thousands’ of autonomous systems
The Pentagon’s new “Replicator” initiative aims to field “multiple thousands” of low-cost “attritable” and autonomous systems within the next two years – technology Washington hopes will counter China’s numerical advantages in the Indo-Pacific region.
FAA orders 777 inspections to address ‘urgent’ risk involving fire prevention
An “urgent unsafe condition” has led the Federal Aviation Administration to order airlines to ensure their Boeing 777s have correctly installed “cap seals” – components used to prevent fuel-tank fires.
Union accuses Air Canada, Jazz of not honouring ‘pilot flow’ agreements
The union representing Jazz Aviation pilots has accused the Canadian regional airline – along with mainline partner Air Canada – of engaging in unfair labour practices during recent contract negotiations.
Hawaiian to decide on 717 replacements in coming months
Hawaiian Airlines expects to decide on a replacement for its Boeing 717 short-haul fleet in the coming months, the company’s chief executive tells FlightGlobal.
JetBlue seeks ‘serious sanctions’ following redaction error in Spirit-merger lawsuit
JetBlue Airways continues fiercely pushing back against claims that it intends to hike prices by up to 40% on Spirit Airlines’ aircraft after its proposed acquisition of the rival carrier is finalised.
Canadian investigators release initial report on fatal Chinook crash
The crash of the Royal Canadian Air Force heavy-lift helicopter in June killed two pilots after the Boeing CH-47F impacted the Ottawa River during a training flight in Ontario.
Flight-control issue prompts NASA and Lockheed to move X-59 back inside for troubleshooting
Flight-control issue prompts NASA and Lockheed to move X-59 back inside for troubleshooting.
Pentagon to use artificial intelligence for airspace monitoring near Washington
Following what it describes as a successful 18-month prototype demonstration, the Pentagon now plans to field an airspace monitoring system developed by Teleidoscope that uses artificial intelligence to deliver upgraded visual recognition, identification and warning.
Tropical Storm Idalia growing into hurricane, poised to impact airports in Florida
Tampa International airport will be closed on 29 August due to fast-moving Tropical Storm Idalia, which is expected to gain force and become a Category 3 hurricane before making landfall in Florida.
Pilot and crew disagreed on ejection in MiG-23 air show crash: NTSB
In their preliminary report into the 13 August crash of a privately operated MiG-23 fighter jet during a Michigan air show, American safety investigators say the aircraft’s backseat crew member initiated ejection procedures without direction from the pilot and owner.
US DOT fines American Airlines $4.1m for tarmac delay violations
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has fined American Airlines $4.1 million for violations associated with lengthy tarmac delays, the largest civil fine ever issued for these kinds of transgressions.
JetBlue pushes back on reports that it plans to hike fares 40% after acquiring Spirit
JetBlue Airways is pushing back on media reports that it plans to raise fares after completing its proposed $3.8 billion acquisition of Spirit Airlines.
Sikorsky lands additional CH-53K order from USMC
The $2.7 billion deal will see the helicopter manufacturer deliver another 35 of the heavy-lift King Stallion helicopters to the US Marine Corps and Israel.
FAA to consider tightening rules for some charter flight operators
US aviation regulators have signalled intention to examine the public charter “loophole” that pilot and flight attendant unions say allows carriers to skirt safety regulations.
Court filing reveals JetBlue plan to hike fares after acquiring Spirit: report
A failure to properly redact sections of court documents has seemingly revealed JetBlue Airways’ plans to hike fares as high as 40% on Spirit Airlines aircraft following its proposed acquisition of the ultra-low-cost carrier.
Boeing evaluating if 2023 delivery goal is feasible following new 737 quality problem
Boeing is reviewing a newly disclosed 737 Max production issue to determine if the problem might keep it from meeting its 2023 delivery target.
Boom gets FAA airworthiness ticket for supersonic XB-1 demonstrator
Boom Supersonic has received an airworthiness certificate for its XB-1 demonstrator from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), clearing a major hurdle to the start of flight testing.
Porter launching first E195-E2 flights to USA with seven new Florida routes
Canadian carrier Porter Airlines is planning to enter the next phase of its North American expansion with its first flights to the USA using its new Embraer 195-E2s.
Only ‘some’ 737 fuselages affected by aft bulkhead issue: Spirit AeroSystems
US supplier Spirit AeroSystems states that it will continue to deliver fuselages to Boeing’s 737 programme, because not all are affected by a newly-discovered quality issue involving the aft pressure bulkhead.
New business-class carrier Bermudair ‘akin to a private jet’ service: CEO
Bermudair is betting that Bermuda’s sizeable business community will sustain its planned flight frequencies and allow for potential network and fleet expansions.
Boeing investigating another 737 quality issue that could again delay deliveries
US airframer Boeing is investigating another problem with 737 fuselages that could once again delay deliveries, the company revealed on 23 August.
NASA, Boeing and Northrop progress with studies of a Mach 5 airliner
NASA is now calling attention to a research project aimed at studying a passenger jet capable of flying at up to four times the speed of sound.
Northern Pacific Airways halts ticket sales on its only route from September
US start-up carrier Northern Pacific Airways has stopped selling tickets on its only route after the end of this month, leading to questions about the young carrier’s future.
Maglev pitches ‘magnetic levitation’ air taxi concept and names GE as supplier
US start-up aerospace company Maglev Aero has revealed details about its development of a new breed of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft powered by a magnetically levitated, rotating fan.
US start-up carrier Red Way to cease operations two months after launch
Start-up carrier Red Way is ceasing operations roughly two months after launching out of Lincoln, Nebraska, ending an experiment that involved a unique low-cost business model.
USAF flies B-2 from Iceland to Alaska for Arctic drills
A US Air Force B-2 stealth bomber flew from Iceland, where it is currently forward deployed as part of a NATO deterrence mission, to Alaska for recent air-combat exercises in the high north.
Canada Jetlines plans to add two winter routes to nascent network
North American ultra-low-cost carrier Canada Jetlines plans to add two new warm-weather destinations to its early-stage network – Orlando and Montego Bay, Jamaica.
FAA hands out $121m to improve airport infrastructure
The Federal Aviation Administration is handing out $121 million to improve infrastructure at several US airports.
US aviation groups flag concerns about air taxi revolution
Some US aviation groups are concerned about the safety of electric air taxis and other in-development novel aircraft, while warning about strained electricity grids and other practical challenges.
USA outlines terms for Ukraine F-16 transfer
The Biden Administration says it is open to authorising the transfer of F-16s from Denmark and the Netherlands when certain conditions are met, and may even contribute American aviators to the training effort.
Claims of global pilot shortage misleading, UK pilot union warns trainees
UK cockpit crew representatives are urging potential student pilots to exercise caution before committing to flight training, insisting that suggestions of a global pilot shortage are misleading.
US arms regulators approve AH-64 sale to Poland
The US State Department has given authorisation for Poland to purchase 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing, at a price of $12 billion.
Alaska Airlines jet damaged upon landing in Santa Ana during storm
An Alaska Airlines jet was heavily damaged upon landing in Santa Ana, California during a tropical storm.
Replacing F-35’s power-management system would cost $3 billion: Honeywell
The manufacturer of the F-35’s electrical power and cooling system argues that the US government should more actively coordinate with various suppliers to deliver a long-term solution for additional onboard cooling.
Air Cahana’s CEO details plan to ‘clean up’ aviation with hydrogen power
Southern California start-up Air Cahana has an ambitious plan to establish and expand hydrogen-powered regional air service in the Southwest USA this decade.
Reliable Robotics uses Cessna Caravan to prove its autonomy works with ATC
US technology developer Reliable Robotics has completed flight tests intended to demonstrate that its autonomous systems can allow pilotless aircraft to operate safely in air-traffic-control-managed airspace.
American Airlines pilots accept new deal that will boost pay up to 46%
American Airlines’ pilots have voted to accept a new contract proposal that promises pay raises of up to 46%, according to the Allied Pilots Association (APA).
US Army to field voice-command technology for UAVs
The prototype artificial intelligence assistant designed by Primordial Labs will allow special-operations troops to control an Teledyne FLIR Black Hornet micro UAV via voice commands.
United 767 fuselage wrinkled as nose-gear bounced during Houston landing
US investigators have disclosed that a United Airlines Boeing 767-300ER sustained substantial upper fuselage damage while landing in Houston, after its nose-wheel bounced heavily on the runway.
FAA orders inspections of some PW1100Gs to address risk of component cracks
The Federal Aviation Administration has given airlines roughly one month to inspect some Pratt & Whitney PW1000G-series turbofans for high-pressure compressor cracks, after the engine maker last month disclosed that widespread inspections were needed.
Canadian carriers cancel flights to western cities as wildfires rage
Air Canada will cease flying to the northern Canadian city of Yellowknife and WestJet has cancelled flights to and from Kelowna.
Air taxi developer XTI Aircraft plans to create public company with Inpixon
Colorado-based XTI Aircraft recently entered a definitive merger agreement with Inpixon to create a publicly traded company focused on bringing its in-development “vertical-lift crossover” aircraft to market.
The Pentagon wants a stealthy UAV to train pilots against fifth-generation fighters
A little-known company in California’s high desert has spent years developing to platform, which aims to replicate the flight characteristics of advanced enemy aircraft like Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 and China’s Chengdu J-20.
Top 100 aerospace companies ranked by revenue
The past financial year was one of post-pandemic recovery for many of the largest aerospace companies. However, supply chain woes and a depressed defence sector were a brake on growth.
Why US aviators are frustrated by broken system
Aviators in the USA are struggling to complete their certifications amid a broken pilot examination system – but can the nation’s regulator fix it at a time of such soaring demand?
How will a new breed of city flyers train to operate eVTOL aircraft?
With a flurry of eVTOL types on final approach to certification, the focus is turning to those who will pilot them – where they will come from, how they will train, and the challenges urban aviation presents.
Defence sales slide, despite heightened global tensions
Defence sales slid by 4.1% in 2022 versus the previous year.
Commercial aviation flying high after pandemic squeeze
Commercial aircraft business soared in 2022, as demand rose in a post-pandemic hurry.
Acquisitive TransDigm tops list of leading margin makers
Acquisitive TransDigm tops the operating margin table in our annual Top 100 report.
Montana Aerospace leads the sales growth climbers
Montana Aerospace’s acquisition of rival Asco in early 2022 has seen it vault up the Top 100 and head the sales growth table with a revenue increase of 123%.
G150 overran after unstable approach as crew ‘raced’ to destination
US investigators have revealed the pilots of a Gulfstream G150 acted as if they were engaged in a race to beat another aircraft to their destination, before an unstable approach at excessive speed resulted in an overrun that badly damaged the jet.
More signs of airline markets ‘normalising’ as fares soften
While airline executives are not panicking about the outlook, there have been increasing indications of passenger market ‘normalisation’ spreading to more regions, as carriers report fares softening from the highs seen in 2022
Boeing flies MD-90 to Palmdale to begin building NASA’s X-66A
Boeing has now moved an MD-90 to the site in Palmdale, California where it plans to modify the former passenger jet into NASA’s X-66A truss-braced-wing demonstrator aircraft.
Allegiant reaches two-year contract extension with technicians
Allegiant Air and its technicians represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters have agreed a two-year contract extension.
Now confident in 787 deliveries, American plots 2024 European expansion
American Airlines has increasing confidence in Boeing’s ability to deliver 787s as planned, prompting the airline to finally move forward with plans to launch new routes to Europe in 2024.
BAE Systems to acquire $2bn-revenue Ball Aerospace
BAE Systems is to acquire US defence and space contractor Ball Aerospace for around $4.8 billion, pending regulatory approval.
Surf Air forecasts ‘rapid growth’ in first quarterly disclosure since public listing
California start-up Surf Air Mobility has disclosed second-quarter results reflecting its recent acquisition of regional carrier Southern Airways.
JetZero to build USAF blended-wing-body prototype
The US Air Force will provide $235 million to aerospace start-up JetZero to develop a blended-wing-body prototype aircraft – dubbed the XBW-1 – with an eye toward increasing fuel efficiency by up to 50%.
Air taxi developers see significant hurdles in FAA’s proposed rules
Air taxi developers are urging the Federal Aviation Administration to revamp proposed rules for air taxi operations and pilot certification, but a major US pilot union is standing the way.
Cirrus updates SF50 Vision Jet with ‘Auto Radar’ and data-tracking package
Fifteen years after Cirrus’ SF50 Vision Jet made its maiden flight, and seven years after the first delivery, the company has rolled out upgrades it promises will reduce pilot workload and improve safety.
Air taxi developer Horizon embarks on path to become publicly traded
Canadian hybrid-electric air taxi developer Horizon Aircraft intends to become a publicly traded company on the US Nasdaq stock market by early 2024, becoming the latest aerospace start-up to pursue go-public plans.
Airline Business performance tracker: Americas Q2 2023
Key data from the most-recent Americas earnings period – the April-June 2023 quarter – and the equivalent periods stretching back to the last pre-Covid year, powered by Airline Business Insight
SAS cleared to sell engineless A321s to US trading firm
Scandinavian carrier SAS has been cleared to proceed with selling a batch of engineless Airbus A321s, for eventual part-out, to a US entity called Spectre Air Capital.
Runaway Dash 8 collides with fence after parking-brake fails during start-up
Canadian investigators have disclosed that a De Havilland Dash 8-300 sustained collision damage after a parking-brake failure caused it to roll forward during engine start-up.
Boom hires former Boeing engine executive
Boom Supersonic has hired a Boeing propulsion veteran to lead development of the engine for its conceptual supersonic airliner.
Southwest to add crew base at Nashville International next year
Southwest Airlines plans to add a crew base at Nashville International airport in the second quarter of 2024 that will start with 150-250 pilots and eventually house 500-600 pilots.
Delta and investment partners to acquire 95% of Wheels Up with $400m in funding
Delta Air Lines and several investment partners are set to own 95% of Wheels Up’s stock by providing the struggling private aviation company with $400 million in fresh financial aid.
Pilot of crashed MiG-23 ejected after feeling power loss: NTSB
Following the crash of a privately-operated Soviet fighter jet during an air show in Michigan, safety investigators in the USA say the aircraft’s two crew ejected after noticing a loss of power.
Russian aircraft breach Alaska air defence zone: NORAD
The joint US-Canada North American Aerospace Defense Command says four Russian military aircraft operating in international airspace breached the air defence identification zone around Alaska that abuts Washington’s sovereign airspace – an increasingly common occurrence.
Fuel starvation suspected after test-pilot school Cessna 414 force-lands in field
Canadian investigators have pointed to fuel starvation after a Cessna 414 was forced to land in a field while en route to a test-pilot training institution.
Canada Jetlines posts modest Q2 loss, needs ‘to raise additional capital’
North American start-up carrier Canada Jetlines lost C$940,000 ($698,000) during the second quarter as it continues expanding its scheduled and charter operations.
Cargojet’s second-quarter results sag amid ‘difficult’ economic conditions
Canadian carrier Cargojet Airways’ second-quarter revenue declined 15% year-on-year as the freight hauler rode out “difficult” market conditions.
ATSG delivers six converted freighters in past month
US lessor Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) recently delivered six converted cargo aircraft to customers in five countries amid a broad downturn in the global air freight market.
US Navy touts record F/A-18 mission-readiness rate
More than 80% of the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler fighter jets were assessed as mission ready, according to a senior US Navy admiral – a drastic improvement from recent years.
Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker: August 2023 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Challenger fatally stalled as pilot tried to salvage unstable circle-to-land approach
US investigators have determined that a Bombardier Challenger 605 first officer’s attempt to rescue an unstable approach, after a series of crew lapses, caused the executive jet to stall and roll into a rapid fatal descent.
US and China to allow more direct flights between the two countries
The US government has agreed to allow Chinese airlines to increase the number of direct flights between the two countries more than three years after the beginning of the global Covid-19 crisis, with the government of China apparently reciprocating.
Canada’s Air Transat to expand flying to Latin America this winter
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat looks to gain a greater foothold in Mexico and South America starting in December.
Air Canada rides wave of international travel to second quarter profit
Air Canada generated second-quarter revenue of C$5.4 billion ($4 billion), up 36% from C$3.9 billion during the same period a year ago, as international travel rebounded strongly from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Archer keeps burning cash as it seeks to ‘take lead’ in air taxi race
Electric air taxi developer Archer Aviation lost $181 million during the second quarter of 2023 as the start-up pushes to certificate its Midnight aircraft.
Boeing invests in Archer, settling lawsuit with Wisk
Air taxi rivals Archer Aviation and Boeing-backed Wisk Aero have settled their long-running lawsuit, with Boeing making an investment in Archer.
US NTSB attributes Maui near-crash to ‘miscommunication’ in United cockpit
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has attributed a near-accident off the coast of an Hawaiian island late last year to flightcrew miscommunication.
US airlines modify schedules, evacuate people from Hawaii’s Maui as brush fires rage
US airlines have modified their operations and begun evacuating residents and tourists from a Hawaiian island as brush fires there have killed at least three dozen.
Military aircraft respond to deadly Hawaii wildfire
Military aircraft from the US Coast Guard and the Hawaii National Guard are responding to a fast-moving wildfire on the island of Maui that has already killed at least 36 people and destroyed hundreds of structures.
Textron Aviation’s SkyCourier gains certification in Brazil
Textron Aviation has secured certification for its SkyCourier twin turboprop from the National Civil Aviation Authority of Brazil (ANAC), clearing the way for operations in that Latin American country.
US start-up carrier Avelo plans to launch first flights outside continental USA
US start-up carrier Avelo Airlines plans to operate its first international flights with new routes from the East Coast of the USA to Puerto Rico starting in November.
NASA’s Mars helicopter resumes flight operations after emergency landing
The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter successfully completed its 54th flight over the red planet, after NASA was able to re-establish control of the rotorcraft after it executed an emergency landing in July.
737 Max awaits engine inlet design fix to avert risk of severe damage from anti-ice
Boeing is undertaking design modification of the 737 Max engine inlet after discovering that use of engine anti-ice in certain operating conditions can result in failure of the inlet’s inner barrel and substantial cowl damage.
Airtanker specialist Conair picks up more Dash 8s to counter increasing wildfire risk
Canadian aerial firefighting specialist Conair Group is purchasing another seven De Havilland Dash 8-400 turboprops for conversion into airborne tankers.
Mesa posts $47.6m second-quarter loss due to lower block hours and ‘captain crunch’
Mesa Air Group lost $47.6 million during its fiscal third quarter, with the airline’s block hours plummeting during its transition to flying its Bombardier CRJ-900s on behalf of United Airlines.
Spirit AeroSystems seeks to develop new materials for hypersonic flight
Aerostructures manufacturer Spirit AeroSystems will partner with the USA’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory to develop advanced materials capable of withstanding the high temperatures of hypersonic flight for military, space and commercial applications.
GlobalX reports $7.5m Q2 loss as aircraft delivery delays take toll
South Florida start-up carrier Global Crossing Airlines (GlobalX) reports a second-quarter loss of $7.5 million as aircraft delivery delays and long turnaround times for aircraft maintenance continue hindering the airline’s operations.
Nebraska-based start-up airline Red Way plans to ‘crawl, walk, run’: CEO
Red Way is betting that its model will revitalise air service from Lincoln and prove itself worth replicating in other parts of the USA.
Western Global struggled with closure of Chinese market and belly-capacity rebound
US cargo carrier Western Global Airlines has outlined the setbacks which led to its entry to Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, including a customer shift away from dedicated freighters, contrary to expectations, and the delayed recovery of Chinese activity.
MNG Airlines and Golden Falcon terminate proposed business combination
Turkish logistics operator MNG Airlines has terminated its proposed business combination agreement with the specialised private equity company Golden Falcon Acquisition.
US Airlines request extension of slot waivers at busy Northeast airports
US airlines have asked the Federal Aviation Administration to extend slot waivers at some busy airports in the Northeast USA through the end of October
Eve reports $31.4m second-quarter loss as it ramps up eVTOL development
The bulk of the company’s quarterly expenses came from $21.8 million spent on research and development, including internal design, engineering and testing infrastructure for its electric air taxi.
USMC showing interest in Archer eVTOL aircraft
A recent visit by US Marine Corps officials to eVTOL manufacturer Archer comes after the company signed a $142 million deal with the US Air Force for six of its all-electric Midnight aircraft.
New business-class carrier Bermudair tentatively approved to fly to USA
New regional carrier Bermudair on 7 August received tentative approval of its foreign air carrier permit from the US Department of Transportation (DOT), clearing it to fly to the USA.
Boeing scores 52 orders in July, as deliveries slide from June high
Boeing took in 52 gross orders in July, including a 39-strong 787 widebody commitment from Saudi Arabian Airlines, alongside deals for 12 737 Max jets and a single 777 Freighter.
Solar UAV may have broken endurance record with three-day flight
The solar-powered Kraus Hamdani Aerospace K1000 Ultra-Long Endurance UAS completed a 75h nonstop flight in Pendleton, Oregon, nearly doubling the current endurance flight record for the class of small aircraft.
US freight carrier Western Global files for Chapter 11 to assist restructuring
Pressured US freight operator Western Global Airlines has voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, as it seeks to implement a restructuring plan to cut debt and stabilise the business.
How agile Air Serbia is finding a profitable growth path
When it comes to examples of airlines exiting the Covid-19 crisis as bigger, more confident operations, Air Serbia is a compelling case, even as it grapples with the capacity constraints that are being felt across the industry.
Sun Country sees higher yields embedded post-Covid
Sun Country Airlines chief executive Jude Bricker believes higher fares post-Covid are now embedded, even if domestic demand has fallen from the spike seen in 2022.
Canada’s Chorus Aviation posts C$20m profit for second quarter
Canada’s Chorus Aviation reported a profit of C$20.3 million ($15.2 million) during the second quarter of 2023, boosted by aircraft leasing revenue, foreign exchange rates, parts sales, MRO activities and contract flying.
Eviation outsources design of Alice’s production configuration to TLG Aerospace
Eviation has outsourced the design of the production configuration of its all-electric Alice aircraft to TLG Aerospace.
US FAA urges early adoption of front-row seat safety enhancements
US regulators are urging operators to adopt safer passenger restraints for front-row seats, after research indicated that lap seat-belts alone could result in severe injuries in an emergency landing.
Uncleared Learjet departed in front of E190 flaring on intersecting runway
US investigators have determined that an executive jet crew commenced take-off without clearance before it passed in front of a JetBlue Embraer 190 that was flaring for touchdown on an intersecting runway.
Icon eyes international orders as FAA certification imminent
Icon Aircraft’s A5 is ready for international prime time, and with the FAA’s certification as a primary category aircraft seemingly imminent, it hopes to soon sell at least a quarter of its airframes outside the USA.
Sun Country Airlines achieves second-quarter profit of $20.6m
Sun Country Airlines reported a $20.6 million profit for the second quarter of 2023 as all three business segments – scheduled passenger service, charter and cargo – posted increases.
JetBlue and Air Serbia expand interline agreement to codeshare
JetBlue Airways has entered into a codeshare agreement with with Air Serbia, building on an interline agreement the two carriers have had since 2016.
Spirit Airlines sees ‘softer’ summer demand; posts Q2 loss
Ultra low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines says summer travel demand was “softer than expected” as travellers chose more long-haul international destinations than domestic ones, while on-time performance suffered under air traffic challenges and instable summer weather.
US pent-up demand shifts to long-haul at expense of domestic
A curious consequence of the Covid-19 recovery has become apparent during the current earnings season, as domestic-focused US carriers report a stronger-than-expected shift in pent-up demand towards international, long-haul flying.
US-Mongolian flights planned under new air transport pact
Flights between the USA and Mongolia are planned for next year, with the signature of an air transport agreement planned as part of a reinforced partnership between the two countries.
Joby flies production prototype of its electric air taxi
Joby Aviation says that it has successfully flown the production prototype of its in-development electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for the first time.
Joby loses $286m in second quarter, reports $1.2 billion cash position
Electric air taxi developer Joby Aviation continues burning cash as it pushes for certification and service-entry of its aircraft, reporting a loss of $286 million in the second quarter.
Spirit Aerosystems takes Q2 earnings, deliveries hit due to strike and 737 quality issue
Spirit Aerosystems, which makes Boeing 737 fuselages and other components, said it lost $206 million during the second quarter, as it was hit by a work stoppage and a vertical fin quality issue on the 737.
Allegiant posts $89m Q2 profit, reports delayed 737 Max deliveries
Allegiant Travel Company, parent of Allegiant Air, reports making a profit of $88.5 million in the second quarter “in the face of high demand and operational complexity”.
Surf completes acquisition of Southern, orders up to 150 Cessna Grand Caravans
Surf Air Mobility has completed its acquisition of US regional carrier Southern Airways, and now turns attention to its fleet expansion and electrification plans.
Etihad Airways unveils new route to US gateway
Middle Eastern carrier Etihad Airways is to open another US route, with services to Boston from spring next year.
Fuel-cell-converted aircraft could replace 20% of turboprop market: report
A new report concludes that fuel-cell powered ATR and De Havilland Canada turboprops could have enough range to cover most typical turboprop routes – but only when carrying far fewer passengers.
Frontier navigates weather, ATC issues and long-haul competition to Q2 profit
Frontier Airlines on 1 August reports a $71 million second-quarter profit amid competition from international long-haul flights and ongoing operational difficulties.
JetBlue posts profitable Q2 amid operational struggles, breakup with American
US low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways reports a second-quarter profit of $138 million – compared with a $188 million loss last year – while the carrier struggles operationally and works to unwind its alliance with American Airlines.
JetBlue’s operational struggles in Northeast contribute to gloomy Q3 revenue outlook
Flight disruptions related to summertime thunderstorms and air traffic control worker shortages at major airports in the Northeast USA have been “much, much worse” than anticipated by JetBlue Airways.
Shimmy dampers examined after Red Air MD-82 gear collapse
US investigators have been scrutinising shimmy damper mechanisms from a Red Air Boeing MD-82 which suffered a main landing-gear collapse and runway excursion after touching down at Miami.
Airline Business Podcast: Summer disruption, airport noise, sustainability and award winners
Graham and Lewis discuss the operational challenges being seen in Europe and North America, as ATC issues and airspace restrictions combine with weather events and other factors.
US DOT suspends review of Allegiant-Viva Aerobus joint venture
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has suspended its review of a joint venture between ultra low-cost carrier (ULCC) Allegiant Air and Mexico’s Viva Aerobus, putting a wrench in the carriers’ already-delayed plans for expansion in each others’ home markets.
Canada Jetlines takes delivery of third Airbus A320, plans 15-strong fleet
North American ultra-low-cost carrier Canada Jetlines has taken delivery of its third Airbus A320, which it hails as a “significant milestone” in its fleet-growth strategy.
US lessor Azorra finds avenue to widebodies with absorption of struggling Voyager
US-based lessor Azorra Aviation is to acquire the leasing firm Voyager Aviation Holdings through a $743.5 million agreement which involves Voyager’s filing for US Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Archer secures $142m contract to deliver up to six ‘Midnight’ eVTOLs to USAF
Electric air taxi developer Archer Aviation has secured contracts with the US Air Force (USAF) worth up to $142 million, expanding both its partnership with the military and potential use cases for its in-development Midnight aircraft.
Boeing logs another 737 Max 7 delay, now plans for first delivery in 2024
Boeing has pushed back its expected first 737 Max 7 delivery until next year, marking continuation of its struggle to get the long-delayed aircraft into customers’ hands.
US judge dismisses Go First suit against Pratt after arbitrator changes terms
A US judge has tossed out Go First’s lawsuit against Pratt & Whitney (P&W) after a Singapore arbitration body overturned an earlier order.
FAA requires aircraft manufacturers to be more clear in reporting design risks
The Federal Aviation Administration intends to tweak its certification process to require manufacturers to specifically inform the agency about “safety critical” items.
DARPA advances ‘Liberty Lifter’ seaplane competitors with another $40m in funding
The Pentagon’s secretive technology development arm has allocated an additional $40 million to fund continued work on a heavy-lift seaplane demonstrator competition involving General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Aurora Flight Sciences.
Lockheed to build nuclear-powered spacecraft for Pentagon
The defence aerospace manufacturer won a contract from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and NASA to develop and demonstrate a reusable space flight vehicle propelled by a nuclear thermal rocket engine with substantially improved fuel efficiency over chemical rockets.
Bermudair requests ‘immediate action’ from US DOT to launch operations
Start-up regional carrier Bermudair has received an air operator certificate from the Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority, taking it one step closer to launching operations to the East Coast of the USA.
Prospective A380 start-up Global Airlines plans initial New York and Los Angeles routes
Prospective UK long-haul start-up Global Airlines is intending to configure its Airbus A380s with 450-470 seats, and initially operate to New York JFK and Los Angeles from London Gatwick.
Southwest profitable in Q2 but network ‘not optimised’: CEO
Southwest Airlines on 27 July reported a second-quarter profit of $683 million based on “continued strong demand” from leisure travellers, but has struggled to attract business travellers during its recovery.
US competition regulator clears L3Harris to acquire Aerojet Rocketdyne
The proposal by L3Harris to purchase the strategically important maker of rocket motors was approved by the US Federal Trade Commissionon on 27July, after the agency previously opposed a similar bid from Lockheed Martin.
Southwest ordered 19 more 737 Max jets in recent months
Southwest Airlines has exercised options for 19 yet-to-be-certificated Boeing 737 Max 7s, while also converting 16 Max 7s to Max 8s in its order book for 2024.
First B-21 bomber powered up ahead of flight testing
Northrop Grumman continues to progress toward first flight of its in-development B-21 stealth bomber, announcing it recently powered up the initial flight-test aircraft for the first time.
Northrop bows out of NGAD fighter competition
Chief executive Kathy Warden says the defence manufacturer, which is currently developing the next-generation B-21 stealth bomber, will not submit a prime bid for the US Air Force’s sixth-generation fighter programme.
Boeing CEO downplays threat of Airbus developing larger A220
Boeing’s chief executive is downplaying competitive threats that might arise should Airbus move forward with developing a larger variant of its A220 narrowbody jet.
Boeing reports $527m loss on defence business in second quarter
Despite strong demand around the world for military hardware, Boeing’s defence unit continues to struggle with money-losing development programmes and supply chain constraints.
Gulfstream on track for year-end G700 certification
Gulfstream is increasingly confident the Federal Aviation Administration will certificate its in-development large-cabin G700 business jet before year-end.
Tecnam to deliver P-Mentor trainers to four US customers, targets 2023 FAA certification
Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam expects the US Federal Aviation Administration will certificate its P-Mentor training aircraft late this year, paving the way for the company to begin deliveries to four newly disclosed customers.
Aviation industry descends on ‘world’s largest general aviation gathering’ in Oshkosh
During the summer, the aviation industry calendar is packed with events, airshows, conferences and trade fairs. The Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin is graddaddy to them all.
Boeing CEO thinks truss-braced airliner concept could ‘see service’
Boeing’s development of NASA’s X-66A truss-brace-wing experiment aircraft will either spawn an entirely new class of commercial jetliners or prove the design unfeasible.
Porter plans to fly from Ottawa to Edmonton
Canadian carrier Porter Airlines continues plotting westward expansion with a new transcontinental route to be operated with its growing fleet of Embraer 195-E2s.
Electra secures investment from Statkraft Ventures to develop ‘blown-lift’ eSTOL
US regional air mobility start-up Electra Aero is getting a financial boost from a venture capital firm focused on developing low-emission transportation technologies.
Boeing moves forward with plan to bump up 737 and 787 production rates
Boeing is hiking production of two aircraft types, increasing 737 output to a 38-monthly rate and aiming by year-end to have five 787s moving off its production line every month.
Turbulence during cruise jolts Jazz Dash 8 pilots from seats
Canadian investigators have disclosed that both pilots of a De Havilland Dash 8-400 were jolted from their seats during a severe turbulence incident en route to Windsor.
Hawaiian posts $12.3m Q2 loss, reports delivery delay of first Boeing 787
Hawaiian Holdings reports losing $12.3 million during the second quarter of 2023 as the company looks to capitalise on rebounding air travel between Hawaii and Japan.
Hawaiian expects no ‘major surgery’ on A321neos due to P&W engine recall
Hawaiian Airlines has not “yet fully calibrated the impact” of 25 July news that Pratt & Whitney is recalling 1,200 of its next-generation turbofan engines, but acknowledges that operations are hindered by “engine unavailability”.
Aviation industry will need more pilots over 20 years than previously expected: Boeing
Boeing expects the global aviation industry will need even more pilots than previously expected, predicting in a new report that demand will exist for 649,000 new pilots during the next 20 years.
US airlines to advise X-66A project as NASA reveals livery scheme
Several US airlines have agreed to provide technical advice in support of Boeing’s project with NASA to develop the X-66A truss-braced-wing demonstrator aircraft.
Wisk demonstrates air taxi concept for first time at public event
Silicon valley air taxi manufacturer Wisk has flown its fifth-generation test aircraft for the first time at a public event.
Airbus wins $2.7bn contract for new Canadian tanker fleet, first deliveries set for autumn
Ottawa selected Airbus’s A330-based Multi-Role Tanker Transport to be the Royal Canadian Air Force’s new in-flight refueller, replacing the current Airbus CC-150 Polaris multi-purpose transport.
Air taxi developer Supernal opens engineering headquarters near Los Angeles
Electric air taxi developer Supernal has opened a new California engineering headquarters that will give the company more space for testing its in-development technology.
GE Aerospace hikes turbofan deliveries as profits flow
GE Aerospace turned a $1.5 billion profit in the second quarter of 2023 as the company significantly increased the pace of its commercial aircraft engine deliveries.
Volaris turns modest Q2 profit as fuel costs slide
Mexico’s Volaris reports a second-quarter profit of $6 million as its leisure-focused operation benefited from significantly lower fuel costs compared with last year.
P&W takes $181m Q2 hit due to ‘customer insolvency’ as Go First failed
Pratt & Whitney’s (P&W’s) second-quarter profit slipped 24% year-on-year to $230 million largely because a “customer insolvency” forced the company to take a $181 million charge.
Alaska rides international travel surge to ‘record’ quarterly revenue
Alaska Air Group on 25 July reported a second-quarter profit of $240 million thanks to steady leisure travel and an “unprecedented surge in international demand” during the three months ending in June.
P&W to recall 1,200 PW1000Gs for inspections in latest blow to airline operations
Pratt & Whitney (P&W) has determined that many more PW1100Gs might contain defective high-pressure turbine disks and therefore require accelerated removal and inspection.
WestJet plans to fly year-round from Calgary to St John’s
Canadian carrier WestJet Airlines’ recently released winter schedule includes year-round flights from Calgary to St John’s, capital of the eastern province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Catalina Aircraft relaunches ‘iconic’ flying boat, eyes military sales
Florida-based Catalina Aircraft says it plans to start new production on a modernised version of the legendary World War II-era PBY Catalina flying boat, targeting military and commercial operators.
FedEx pilots reject tentative contract
The union representing FedEx pilots on 24 July rejected a tentative contract with the logistics giant, setting back negotiations on a five-year deal that would have taken effect next month.
Why the US Air Force is accelerating its future tanker fleet plans
Accelerated plans to develop and field a next-generation tanker have raised questions about the US Air Force’s need to plug a gap as its venerable KC-135s head for retirement.
US aviation industry fights to maintain safety record after spate of close calls
With air travel in the USA bursting at the seams, the nation’s ageing air traffic control infrastructure is struggling to cope – resulting in several high-profile near-disasters and deep soul-searching within the industry.
Alaska plans to bolster regional Horizon routes in Northwest USA
Alaska Airlines plans to boost regional air service in the USA’s Pacific Northwest by increasing flight frequencies to three cities and resuming service to another.
FAA approves Reliable Robotics’ autonomous flight system certification plan
The California start-up is pushing for certification and commercialisation of its autonomous flight system, which works as an always-on autopilot during taxiing, take-off and landing.
FAA to require 757s be inspected for frame cracks
The Federal Aviation Administration intends to require airlines to inspect Boeing 757s after one operator found cracks on a high-time jet.
USAF makes first-ever use of commercial in-flight refueling service
During recent exercises over the American southwest, a commercially-operated tanker provided air-to-air refuelling support to US Air Force military aircraft.
RTX green lights sale of actuation business to Safran
US aerospace giant RTX has approved the sale of subsidiary Collins Aerospace’s $1.5 billion-revenue actuation division to French firm Safran.
Collins steps up 3D-printing capabilities to meet engine component demand
Collins Aerospace has significantly expanded its additive manufacturing capabilities at a facility in Iowa, part of an effort by the aerospace giant to produce more aircraft engine components via 3D printing.
Boeing begins Block III upgrades to existing US Navy F/A-18s
The aerospace giant says it has begun installing Block III upgrades on the US Navy’s Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet strike fighters, which will get an additional 4,000h of service life and a new touch-screen cockpit display.
Archer adds Uber Elevate co-founder Nikhil Goel as chief commercial officer
Archer Aviation has named Uber Elevate co-founder Nikhil Goel as chief commercial officer – the second high-profile addition the electric air taxi start-up has made to its leadership team in the past month.
US House passes FAA reauthorisation bill as Senate negotiations continue
The US House of Representatives passed a Federal Aviation Administration funding bill that would increase the pilot retirement age and push the FAA to hire more air traffic controllers.
Super Hornet production to end in 2025, following Indian competition loss
Boeing expects to finish production of its F/A-18E/F Super Hornet within around two years, following the type’s defeat in an Indian Navy contest for 26 carrier-based fighters.
Ampaire acquires eVTOL developer Talyn Air
US regional air mobility company Ampaire has acquired Talyn, a start-up developing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technologies inspired by two-stage rockets.
Families of Canadian service members sue Sikorsky over fatal Cyclone crash
Relatives of six Canadian air force and naval personnel killed in 2020 when a Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone helicopter crashed off the coast of Greece are suing the helicopter maker in a US court, alleging the aircraft’s fly-by-wire flight control system made improper adjustments that caused the incident.
United sees improvement in Newark as it cuts summer schedule: CEO
United Airlines has adjusted its flight schedule in the Northeast US after an operational meltdown several weeks ago disrupted hundreds of thousands of passengers.
C-17 engine upgrade will benefit all operators, Pratt & Whitney says
An updated engine support contract for the global fleet of Boeing C-17 strategic transports will deliver substantial savings to operators.
American reports ‘outstanding’ Q2 with $1.3bn profit
American Airlines reported a $1.34 billion second-quarter profit as passenger demand continues to rise and fuel prices fell by more than one-third since last year.
Atlas Air takes second of four expected 777-200F deliveries
US cargo and charter airline Atlas Air Worldwide has taken delivery of the second of four new Boeing 777-200 Freighters it plans to operate on behalf of shipping giant MSC Mediterranean.
Pressured US freight carrier Western Global seeks to reinforce financial position
US cargo carrier Western Global Airlines has admitted that it is facing financial pressures, and that its management team is exploring options to reinforce the company’s position.
Japan’s SkyDrive clinches first pre-order in USA
Japan-based advanced air mobility company SkyDrive has disclosed its first pre-orders from a North American customer, with South Carolina-based charter outfit Austin Aviation signing for five of its eponymous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Archer to fly ‘Midnight’ air taxi ‘within a matter of days’
Electric air taxi developer Archer Aviation is on the verge of attempting first flight of its production aircraft, “Midnight”, at the company’s San Jose test facility.
Lockheed delivery numbers falter as Pentagon stops accepting new F-35s
The Pentagon has stopped taking delivery of new F-35s while manufacturer Lockheed Martin completes flight testing for the “Technical Refresh 3” upgrade package, substantially lowering the company’s delivery forecast for 2023.
United posts three-fold rise in second-quarter profit as demand surges
United Airlines posted a second-quarter profit of $1.08 billion, as passenger demand for travel at the beginning of the Northern Hemisphere’s summer travel season surged.
IATA slams North American air traffic control chaos
The International Air Transport Association has slammed North American aviation regulators for dragging their feet on increasing staffing at air traffic control centres.
Southwest adds former US senator Roy Blunt to board of directors
Blunt joined the 15-member board on 16 July, and will apply his “broad experience spanning health care, infrastructure and national security” to the role.
Breeze plans Florida ‘snowbird’ expansion with 11 new seasonal routes
US start-up airline Breeze Airways plans to double down on flying winter travellers south with 11 new seasonal routes to Florida starting in November.
Raytheon wins additional DARPA funding for hypersonic cruise missile
The Pentagon’ secretive Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency awarded an $81 million contract to Raytheon for further test flights of the Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept cruise missile.
FAA releases plan to support air taxis ‘at scale’ by 2028
The Federal Aviation Administration has published a report broadly laying out a path to enable operation of electric air taxis and other novel aircraft in sizeable numbers by 2028.
Loose pin caused 767 gear-up landing in 2020
Failure of hardware inside a FedEx Boeing 767-300ER Freighter’s left-side main landing gear prevented the gear from extending during an August 2020 flight, leading to a gear-up landing at Los Angeles.
Flight attendant union schedules strike vote against American Airlines
American Airlines’ flight attendants are set to vote starting late this month on whether to approve a strike against the carrier, a move coming as the airline and union continue battling over a new contract.
BAE’s PHASA-35 programme on a high after stratospheric test debut
BAE Systems has performed a first stratospheric flight with the PHASA-35 high-altitude pseudo-satellite, marking a new milestone for the unmanned air system.
United Airlines adds Pacific routes from October
United Airlines is adding new routes between the USA and Asia as demand for flights across the Pacific Ocean sharply climbs.
Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker: July 2023 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
But is it an aircraft? FAA undecided on critical question as Regent seeks ‘seaglider’ guidance
Developers of wing-in-ground-effect craft insist their designs are marine vessels and therefore should be subject to oversight by the USCG, but with the FAA hovering, there are concerns that an emerging sector could be scuppered before it has even set sail.
No end date in sight for P-8, E-7 output, Boeing says
Boeing has no date in mind for ending production of its 737NG for conversion into military derivative models, as the P-8 Poseidon and E-7A Wedgetail variants continue to attract customers.
ExpressJet planning revival as widebody charter operator
Defunct US regional airline ExpressJet could re-emerge as a charter carrier under new ownership, initially flying passengers on one Boeing 777-200ER.
United Airlines Boeing 767 loses evacuation slide prior to landing in Chicago
A United Airlines flight arriving from Zurich apparently lost an inflatable emergency evacuation slide pack just before landing at Chicago’s O’Hare International airport.
Conditions ‘not ideal’ for Ukraine to use F-16s: Pentagon
As Europe awaits American approval to transfer US-made F-16 fighters to Ukraine, Pentagon officials continue to resist, most recently saying Russian air defences would limit the jet’s battlefield impact.
After launch, Northern Pacific cancels second scheduled flight
Northern Pacific Airways, which operated its first commercial flight from the Los Angeles metropolitan area to Las Vegas on 14 July, is seemingly having trouble continuing service.
Gulfstream’s second G800 test aircraft makes first flight
Gulfstream’s second flight-test variant of its G800 ultra-long-range business jet has taken to the skies, completing its maiden flight on 15 July.
The Airline Strategy Awards 2023: winning stories
Alaska Airlines’ Ben Minicucci, Pegasus’ Guliz Ozturk and Singapore Airlines’ Goh Choon Phong were among those recognised at this year’s Airline Strategy Awards on 16 July in London, alongside former American Airlines chief executive Doug Parker.
United Airlines and pilots agree on new contract
United Airlines and its pilots have come to an agreement in principle (AIP) on a new contract.
Avelo plans first commercial flights from Oregon’s capital city in nearly 15 years
US ultra-low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines plans to launch the first commercial air service from western Oregon’s Salem Municipal airport in nearly 15 years.
American and JetBlue begin unwinding Northeast Alliance
American Airlines and JetBlue Airways have begun to unwind their Northeast Alliance, two months after a court ruled it was anti-competitive.
How small efficiency gains are fuelling USAF’s combat edge
The US Air Force (USAF) has outlined some of the efficiency gains it is pursuing for its air mobility fleet, with the service seeking to boost operational readiness and reduce its environmental impact.
Delta kicks off Q2 airline earnings with record revenue and ‘robust demand’
Delta Air Lines kicked off the second-quarter earnings season by reporting record revenue and delivering a message of optimism that the post-Covid-19 recovery is in full swing and sustainable.
Nine manufacturers to build autonomous ship-based VTOL aircraft for DARPA
Aerospace manufacturers including Northrop Grumman, AeroVironment, AVX Aircraft, Griffon Aerospace, Karem Aircraft, Leidos, Method Aeronautics, Piasecki Aircraft, and Sikorsky will design demonstrator versions of an autonomous ship-based reconnaissance aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing for the Pentagon’s secretive Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency technology incubator.
Boeing secures long-lead funding for US Chinook Block II production
A $22.5 million contract from the US Army will fund preparations at Boeing to deliver Block II CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters under production Lot 4, a platform the service has not yet committed to fully acquiring.
Delta exercises options on 12 more Airbus A220-300s and orders one A330
Delta Air Lines has exercised options on a dozen more Airbus A220-300s, taking its firm commitment for the jet including the smaller -100s to 131.
American, JetBlue make Northeast Alliance break-up official
US carriers American Airlines and JetBlue Airways will terminate their Northeast Alliance (NEA) at the end of July.
NTSB traces Delta gear-up landing to fractured gear link
A fractured landing gear component prevented the pilots of a Delta Air Lines Boeing 717 from lowering the nose gear during a flight on 28 June that ended with a gear-up landing.
Pratt & Whitney wins initial F-35 engine upgrade contract
The engine maker secured $66 million in funding to support early stage design engineering and long-lead material purchases for the Engine Core Upgrade programme, which will provide enhancements to the USA’s Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter fleet and billions of dollars in revenue to Pratt & Whitney over the coming years.
Airbus and Boeing ride wave of demand as aerospace recovery picks up pace
The world’s airlines are again clamouring to get their hands on narrowbody and widebody jets, with Airbus and Boeing riding a wave of demand that accelerated swiftly in the first half of 2023.
Alaska Airlines looks to ‘carbon transformation’ company Twelve for SAF supply
Twelve has broken ground on a new plant that promises to convert CO2 from the atmosphere into jet fuel that could one day power some Alaska Airlines Boeing 737s.
Paris air show reveals strong demand and a resilient but challenged supply chain
Aerospace suppliers are dealing with a variety of issues in the post-Covid-19 environment, and those issues are challenging their ability to ramp production. Three challenges – involving productivity, pricing and working capital – are most pressing.
Surf Air expects to soon go public, close deal with Southern Airways
Regional air travel company Surf Air Mobility anticipates it will be listed on the New York Stock Exchange during the week of 24 July, which would complete a process involving the company’s acquisition of regional carrier Southern Airways.
Boeing roars back in June with orders for 288 new aircraft
Deals landed at the Paris air show pushed Boeing’s net aircraft orders in June to 288, more than it has logged in any month in recent memory.
Northern Pacific to launch first passenger flights this week: CEO
The Federal Aviation Administration has issued Northern Pacific Airways an air carrier certificate, clearing the way for the start-up airline to begin passenger flights later this week.
Canada Jetlines plans to expand charter flights to Guyana and Greenland
Start-up carrier Canada Jetlines has recently shown intention to expand its charter operations beyond North America.
Boeing keeps 737 delivery goal despite collapse of bridge used to transport fuselages
Boeing still expects to meet its 737 delivery target this year despite facing a significant logistical hurdle imposed by the recent collapse of a railway bridge used to transport fuselages.
US NTSB investigating engine fire on United Airlines’ Boeing 737 Max
A fuel leak may have been the cause of an engine fire that occurred on a United Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft in Newark last week, the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) says in a preliminary report.
US pilot union demands government close charter ‘loophole’ being ‘exploited’ by JSX and SkyWest
Air Line Pilots Association, International continues decrying what it calls a “loophole” of scheduled flights being operated under the guise of Part 135 charter operations.
US start-up Connect Airlines' certification work lags as proving flights 'terminated’: DOT
Start-up regional carrier Connect Airlines has been struggling to meet FAA certification requirements and to start operating planned flights from Philadelphia and Chicago to Billy Bishop Toronto City airport, according to US regulators.
Global airline passenger traffic closes to within 4% of pre-Covid levels
Global airline passenger traffic was at 96.1% of 2019 levels in May this year, as the industry neared parity with pre-Covid levels of demand after three years of deficit.
Airlines need to prepare for more extreme weather events
It is noteworthy how the recent challenges have been accompanied by a rising tide of studies and reports suggesting that the world will need to brace for more extreme weather events, as a result of global warming.
Boeing, Aurora to launch work on future tanker technologies
Boeing has announced plans to enhance the self-protection capability of its KC-46A in-flight refuelling aircraft, with new technology initiatives also to include the increased use of composite components.
JetBlue to exit Northeast Alliance after court ruling, in bid to save Spirit merger plans
JetBlue is set to terminate an alliance with American Airlines in the coming months, and will focus instead on a planned $3.8 billion acquisition of Spirit Airlines.
Iran taken to United Nations court over Ukrainian 737 shootdown
Four countries have collectively filed to initiate proceedings before the United Nations International Court of Justice over the destruction of a Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737-800 shot down over Tehran.
Air Inuit to replace 737-200s with combi-configured 737-800s
Canadian operator Air Inuit is to introduce three Boeing 737-800s to modernise its fleet, which includes 737-200 variants.
Amid United Airlines’ operational meltdown, CEO apologises for private jet trip
United Airlines’ chief executive Scott Kirby chartered a private jet earlier this week as the company suffered an operational meltdown that cancelled hundreds of flights, and stranded thousands of passengers.
US airlines predict minimal impact as 5G restrictions take effect on 1 July
Even as US airlines work to recover from days of a disrupted operations, another risk looms on the horizon – that posed by new 5G-related aircraft-operating restrictions.
Airlines, passengers and FAA brace for tough travel weekend
The US Federal Aviation Administration expects more than 2.8 million air passengers on Friday, the anticipated busiest travel day of the upcoming Independence Day travel period.
US DOT slaps down Delta request for Haneda slot relief
The US Department of Transportation has rejected Delta Air Lines’ request for flexibility in selecting departure points of flights to Tokyo’s Haneda International airport.
US air-travel system failed this week - after airlines insisted they were ready
Over and over this year, executives at US airlines insisted they were taking steps that would ensure their operations run more smoothly this summer. They spoke far too soon.
ATP flight school orders 40 more Cessna Skyhawks from Textron
US flight school network ATP has ordered more 40 Cessna Skyhawk single-engine piston trainer aircraft from Textron Aviation.
Five years an Airbus: How the ‘little’ A220 transitioned to the big league
For an aircraft originally dismissed by Airbus as having no business case, the A220 has defied sceptics not only by settling snugly into the airframer’s line-up but also by emerging as a potential successor to the ubiquitous A320.
Spirit to restart operations after union accepts new contract, ending week-long strike
Spirit AeroSystems expects to fully resume production on 5 July, after its largest employee union voted to accept new employment contract terms, ending a week-long strike.
Southwest Airlines’ pilot union requests release from federal mediation
The pilot union representing Southwest Airlines’ flight deck crew has requested to be released from mediation with the airline for a new contract, six weeks after its members voted in favour of a strike.
Honda Aircraft reveals used-jet sales programme for HA-420s
The North Carolina-based manufacturer’s new “Certified Pre-Owned Programme” is similar to a used-aircraft sales business launched in 2021 by Bombardier.
Universal relocates hydrogen-modified Dash 8 to Mojave for flight tests
Universal Hydrogen has flown its hydrogen-fuel-cell powered De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300 demonstrator to the Mojave Air & Space Port in California for resumption of flight testing ahead of a 2025 certification goal.
El Al would have avenue to SkyTeam membership under Delta co-operation pact
Israeli flag-carrier El Al could potentially join the SkyTeam alliance with Delta Air Lines’ support, following a strategic co-operation agreement sealed between the two airlines.
South Korea’s SK Telecom invests $100m in Joby Aviation
South Korean telecommunications company SK Telecom has made a $100 million equity investment in air taxi developer Joby Aviation.
USAF kicks off Boeing T-7A test programme with first EMD-phase flight
A first engineering and manufacturing development-phase example of the T-7A Red Hawk advanced jet trainer made its first flight on 28 June, with Boeing and US Air Force test pilots at the controls.
Lynx Air pilots seek first collective agreement
Pilots at Canadian ultra-low-cost carrier Lynx Air have sent a notice to the airline’s management requesting to open negotiations on their first collective agreement.
FAA insists controller shortage is no longer holding up flights, as meltdown continues
The Federal Aviation Administration is insisting its operation is not to blame for the last several days of a massive airline operational meltdown in New York.
Joby unveils first production prototype aircraft
Air taxi developer Joby Aviation has unveiled the first production prototype aircraft built at its production facility in Marina, California.
CALC picks PW1100G engines for up to 60 A320neos
China Aircraft Leasing Group intends to order Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines to power up to 60 additional Airbus A320neo-family jets, marking another win for the US engine manufacturer.
Canada gains US approval for $5.9bn P-8A acquisition
Washington has valued a prospective sale to Canada of 16 Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft at roughly $5.9 billion.
FAA’s air traffic controller shortage poses safety risk: government report
A report from US Department of Transportation’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) finds that the Federal Aviation Administration’s air traffic controller shortage is a safety risk factor that must be addressed promptly.
Spirit and union reach new contract deal as strike continues
Spirit AeroSystems and its largest employee union have agreed to the terms of a new contract, though workers remain on strike ahead of a planned union vote on 29 June.
United spars with FAA as carriers face New York operational meltdowns
Major US airlines are suffering operational meltdowns in New York City, cancelling hundreds of flights in recent days and prompting a spat between United Airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration.
Cockpit-recorder riddle emerges after fatal crash of unresponsive Citation
US investigators have yet to locate a cockpit-voice recorder from the Cessna Citation V business jet which crashed in Virginia on 4 June after its pilot became unresponsive.
US airlines gear up for busy Independence Day holiday travel
US airlines are preparing for their busiest Independence Day travel period since the beginning of the global Covid-19 pandemic.
Rough air over Baghdad: A-10 pilot Kim Campbell flies into aviation history
As the US Air Force finally begins to retire the vaunted A-10 ground attack jet, a combat-tested pilot remembers how the Warthog’s rugged airframe saved her life on a combat mission over Baghdad 20 years ago.
Are plans to decarbonise air traffic management on the right path?
The opportunity to improve air traffic management systems to accelerate decarbonisation seems to be strong – but it is characterised by complex and interdependent networks, loaded with politics.
NASA to end all-electric X-57 programme without flying prototype
NASA is to end its experimental X-57 all-electric aircraft project without flying the prototype airframe, citing a shortage of time to address technical issues.
Lockheed ignites F-35 propulsion spat with support for new engine
A Lockheed Martin executive speaking at the Paris air show endorsed a full engine replacement for the F-35 stealth fighter, over a less-invasive core upgrade, igniting a spat between the defence giant and current engine supplier Pratt & Whitney on the event’s final day.
Porter Airlines chief Michael Deluce hails North American expansion with E195-E2s
Under the leadership of Michael Deluce, the Canadian regional carrier is in the early stages of its grandest-ever expansion, thanks to the arrival of its new Embraer jets
Spirit AeroSystems plans to stop operations on 22 June amid labour dispute
Spirit AeroSystems plans to suspend operations on 22 June in response to a decision to strike by employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).
Why pilots of ditched Transair 737 identified, then misidentified, failed engine
US investigators believe pilots of a Transair Boeing 737-200 freighter which ditched in the ocean off Honolulu did not verify which engine had failed shortly after take-off, despite initially correctly identifying the damaged powerplant.
One-tenth of jets with P&W’s geared turbofans have been sidelined
About 10% of aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1000G geared turbofans have recently been of service amid a surge in durability problems that the engine maker insists it is addressing.
Porter agrees E195-E2 sale-and-leaseback deal with Avolon
Canadian regional carrier Porter Airlines has agreed to sell 10 of its incoming Embraer 195-E2s to aircraft lessor Avolon and buy back the E-jets.
Electra, Safran to produce hybrid-electric eSTOL propulsion system
US start-up Electra Aero has signed an agreement with Safran Helicopter Engines to develop a hybrid-electric propulsion system for the prototype of its in-development short take-off and landing aircraft.
Flying Whales on ‘huge’ mission to access remote regions with conceptual airships
Airship developer Flying Whales is on course to launch cargo flights with its massive craft by 2027 despite significant regulatory hurdles facing its ambitious programme.
Zimex named third customer for rebooted Twin Otter 300
The Switzerland-based airline group has signed a purchased agreement for two of the lighter 300G variant.
P&W thinks engine-efficiency target may take a bit more time
Pratt & Whitney thinks the aerospace industry might need a bit more time to achieve a broad goal of squeezing 20%-plus efficiency out of the next generation of narrowbody aircraft engines.
Lockheed trains battlefield expertise on fighting wildfires
Lockheed Martin, the military airframer best known for advanced fighter aircraft such as the F-35 and F-22, wants to use its experience enabling battlefield communications and decision making to assist wild-land firefighters in an era of more severe burns.
Air mobility challenges will be mastered – with time and money
Advanced air mobility projects received their own showcase at the Paris air show this week, as the segment’s leaders race each other to the commercialisation finish line.
Spirit advances high-rate composites research in bid to supply next narrowbody
Aircraft structures supplier Spirit AeroSystems is using the Paris air show to call attention to research work it hopes will enable the next generation of narrowbody jets to have composite fuselages.
Aerolease signs for 50 Eviation Alice electric aircraft
Miami-based leasing company Aerolease has signed a letter of intent for 50 of Eviation’s in-development Alice clean-sheet commuter aircraft.
US Air Force supports GE-Clemson project to advance high-temperature materials
GE Aerospace and Clemson University have secured government funds to develop materials capable of holding up in the ultra-hot temperatures associated with high-speed flight.
Victory for Valor: Bell celebrates FLRAA win in Paris
With a new chief executive at the helm and an era-defining contract for its V-280 Valor tiltrotor in hand, helicopter-maker Bell is taking a victory lap at the Paris air show.
Aviation Industry will need 1.3m new professionals by 2032: CAE
Canadian flight crew training company CAE says the global aviation industry will require 1.3 million new professionals across numerous work groups in the coming decade in order to keep up with the ever-growing demand for commercial and business air travel.
Avolon firms up order for 40 Boeing 737 Max
Boeing has landed a firm order for 40 737 Max 8s from Irish aircraft lessor Avolon, a deal that firms up Avolon’s previously stated intention to purchase the jets.
Horizon Aircraft takes hybrid-electric approach to VTOL development
Though much of the emerging vertical take-off and landing sector is focused on fully electric vehicles, Canadian developer Horizon Aircraft is taking a different tact with its in-development Cavorite X7.
China Airlines firms order for eight Boeing 787-9s
China Airlines has ordered eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, the US airframer said at the Paris air show on 20 June.
Boom discloses more Overture detail as it sources main aerostructures
Boom Supersonic has revealed greater detail of its Overture aircraft design, including its Symphony engine, after selecting primary suppliers to produce the composite fuselage, wing and empennage of the Mach 1.7 jet.
Monte firms order for up to 100 ZeroAvia hydrogen-electric engines
ZeroAvia disclosed during the Paris air show that it has a purchase agreement for up to 100 of its hydrogen-electric engines with the UK’s Monte Aircraft Leasing.
GKN will produce thermoplastic flight control surfaces for Joby’s eVTOL
Joby Aviation and GKN Aerospace have signed a multi-year agreement to supply the air taxi developer with thermoplastic flight control surfaces.
GE insists open-fan concept can hit 20% efficiency target despite Boeing’s doubts
Boeing and GE Aerospace remain slightly at odds about the actual fuel-efficiency gains possible with CFM International’s in-development open-fan engine.
Raytheon seeks to double F-35 power and cooling capacity
Raytheon subsidiary Collins Aerospace recently completed laboratory testing on the Enhanced Power and Cooling System for the F-35 fighter, which the company says will more than double the current capacity on the cooling-challenged jet.