WestJet and Delta said to be resubmitting transborder JV application
Canada’s WestJet and Delta Air Lines reportedly intend to resubmit their plans for a transborder joint venture, eight months after the carriers pulled their last application to the US Department of Transportation (DOT).
US court denies Wisk’s request for injunction against Archer
A US court has dismissed a motion for an injunction against urban air mobility start-up Archer Aviation, brought by competitor Wisk Aero.
Airline Business Weekly Briefing: No more domestic bliss in Asia-Pacific
News this week that Australia’s domestic air travel market has been hit hard by a resurgence of Covid-19 cases reflects a growing trend of Covid-19 challenges in Asia-Pacific, with no easy answers.
Air Canada ‘ready to deal with’ Porter Airlines expansion
Air Canada is undaunted by regional carrier Porter Airlines’ plans to grab market share when it begins operating jet aircraft from Toronto’s Pearson International airport in 2022.
Air Canada ‘turning a corner’ as restrictions ease despite further heavy loss in Q2
Air Canada once again lost more than a billion Canadian dollars in the second quarter of the year as the airline continues to struggle to do business amid Canada’s ongoing travel strict restrictions.
Overture will have ‘fraction’ of Concorde’s fuel burn: United Airlines chief
Improved propulsion technology and a lower cruising speed will ensure the Boom Supersonic Overture significantly outperforms the BAC-Aerospatiale Concorde, according to United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby.
Sikorsky-Boeing SB-1 Defiant lifts 2,400kg as flight testing continues
The Sikorsky-Boeing SB-1 Defiant rotorcraft demonstrated the ability to lift a 2,400kg (5,300lb) sling load in a recent test flight.
Southwest is ‘delighted’ with recovery progress
Southwest Airlines is “very delighted” with the post-coronavirus crisis rebound in air travel and has not yet seen any indication that the more-contagious “Delta variant” has had any effect on business.
Alaska Airlines ‘on the path to profitability’
Alaska Air Group narrowed its loss in the second quarter of 2021, as passenger demand rose in line with the entire air transport industry.
Government aid pushes American to small second-quarter profit
American Airlines achieved a profit of $19 million in the second quarter of the year as the airline ramps up its operations in the face of dramatically increased leisure demand.
Why the ill-timed 777X can still be a winner for Boeing
Pandemic, decimated international travel demand and certification delays. Why Boeing’s chief executive has no regrets about developing the 777X.
Boeing’s response to A321neo still unclear, but Max 10 narrows competitive gap
As the pandemic eases, Boeing finds itself in the familiar position of still having to address the competitive threat posed by Airbus’s A321neo – particularly the longer-range A321XLR variant.
787 programme’s future remains bright, though scope of fuselage issues unclear
But despite stopping deliveries, despite fuselage issues, despite withered demand for international travel and despite markedly reduced 787 production rates, analysts still foresee bright tomorrows for the jet.
Boeing’s Max gains momentum as pandemic recovery accelerates
Despite ongoing technical issues, Boeing has recently landed significant new orders for the once-grounded narrowbody, progressed with clearing a hundreds-deep inventory of stored jets and achieved first flight of the Max 10.
How A220 programme proved sound investment for Airbus amid pandemic
One curious effect of the air transport crisis is that it has effectively pushed the sector back in time, leaving a fleet technologically shaped to address the 2020s facing levels of demand from the turn of the millennium.
Boeing integrates Superjet data into its flight-performance calculation tool
Boeing is integrating aircraft capability data for the Sukhoi Superjet 100 into the US airframer’s performance tool platform to enable improvement to the type’s take-off and landing operations.
American ups pilot hiring targets due to rapidly increasing demand
American Airlines will hire 350 new pilots this year, up from 300, as the industry recovery accelerates following the year-long coronavirus crisis.
United ‘bullish’ about business and international travel rebound
United Airlines executives are “bullish” about the carrier’s post-coronavirus recovery trajectory, and expect the business travel segment to accelerate significantly in the coming months.
Canada’s WestJet declines federal aid
WestJet, Canada’s second largest airline, says it is “not actively pursuing financial support from the federal government” to help it navigate through the Covid-19 crisis
United's Q2 ‘exceeded expectations’ as business travel returns
United Airlines says its second quarter results “largely exceeded original expectations” as business and international travel began to make a stronger return in addition to leisure travellers’ run on tickets for the beginning of the summer holiday travel period.
JetBlue and American start next phase of Northeast Alliance
JetBlue Airways and American Airlines have launched the next phase of their so-called Northeast Alliance (NEA), together offering more than 700 daily flights from Boston and New York.
Air Canada to offer 220 transborder flights per day after border reopening
Air Canada will offer up to 220 transborder flights every day after the government of Canada announced it would lift entry restrictions for US citizens and permanent residents who are fully vaccinated beginning in August.
US tourists may enter Canada from 9 August
Canada will re-open to vaccinated US leisure travellers on 9 August, almost 17 months after the border between the two nations was effectively sealed for non-essential travel in order to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.
Airline industry not assertive enough in early days of Covid-19: IATA chief
The airline industry was too accepting of draconian restrictions on international travel in the first months of the pandemic, according to IATA director general Willie Walsh.
BA to accelerate 787 nose-gear modifications after retraction incident
British Airways is to speed implementation of a fix to prevent a repeat of the nose-gear retraction incident that damaged one of the carrier’s Boeing 787-8s on the ground at London Heathrow, in the aftermath of two similar events in the previous five years.
USAF to update MQ-9A Reaper fleet in 2022 with auto-land-and-take-off capability
The US Air Force (USAF) plans to start updating its fleet of MQ-9A Reapers with an automatic land-and-take-off capability starting in the spring of 2022.
New 787 issue casts fresh uncertainty over production rates, deliveries and possible forward loss
Boeing’s latest 787 manufacturing issues and associated production cut has raised more uncertainty about the programme, leaving analysts unclear about production rates, the pace of regulatory approval and whether the airframer might take another financial charge against the programme.
Canada to open border to vaccinated travellers from the US
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the country may lift its entry restriction for vaccinated travellers from the USA by the middle of next month.
FAA grounds Rhoades Aviation, operator of 737 that crashed on 2 July
The Federal Aviation Administration has grounded Honolulu-based Rhoades Aviation, which operated a Boeing 737-200 that crashed into the Pacific Ocean after take-off from Honolulu on 2 July.
US president says decision imminent on reopening to European travellers
US president Joe Biden has suggested that there will be news on the potential reopening of US borders to non-essential European visitors in the coming days.
Canada prepares to launch multibillion-dollar pilot training revamp ahead of fighter order
As the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) upgrades its fleet with new aircraft, including the upcoming purchase of 88 advanced fighter jets, it is revamping pilot training through a multibillion-dollar programme called Future Aircrew Training (FAcT).
FAA orders airlines to test pressure switches in all 737s, citing risk of failure
The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered airlines to test cabin altitude pressure switches in all Boeing 737s, saying some operators have reported that both switches on several aircraft had failed.
Pratt & Whitney Canada again commits to develop hybrid-electric propulsion system for regional airliners
With Canadian government support, Pratt & Whitney Canada is moving forward with project to equip a De Havilland Canada Dash 8-100 turboprop with a hybrid-electric propulsion system, with demonstrator flights scheduled to begin in 2024.
Avelo to launch flights between Las Vegas and Santa Rosa
Low-cost startup Avelo Airlines plans to launch its first flights between two cities in the western USA that are not its home base.
The USA should invest in electric regional aircraft – not high-speed rail
In earlier decades, there wasn’t a workable and environmentally friendly alternative to high-speed rail. That is no longer the case.
Why visionaries think small electric aircraft can revolutionise regional air travel
If all goes to plan, by this time next year Canadian regional carrier Harbour Air will make history as the first airline to fly paying passengers on an all-electric aircraft.
Northrop Grumman breaks ground on hypersonic missile design and production facility
Northrop Grumman has started construction of a “Hypersonics Center of Excellence” in Elkton, Maryland that will house the company’s hypersonic missile design, development and production work.
Wheels Up becomes public company, raises $650m
US private-aviation services provider Wheels Up became a publicly traded company on 14 July, generating $650 million through a stock offering the company says will help fund accelerated global growth and technology investment.
Delta eyes continued financial recovery in second half of 2021
Delta anticipates its business will continue improving in the third quarter, with revenue and capacity expected to creep closer to 2019 levels thanks partly to strong demand for travel within the USA and to Latin America.
Delta returns to profit in Q2 with help from US government payroll grants
Delta Air Lines returned to the black posting a $652 million profit in the second quarter, aided by $1.5 billion in US government Covid-19 support,
Freighters help Boeing offset collapse in twin-aisle passenger jet orders
Figures at the half-year point clearly illustrate the difference that Boeing’s freighter line has made to the two main airframers’ long-haul order activity following the onset of the air transport crisis.
American started accumulating cash in Q2, swung to profit in June
American Airlines says it was profitable during June, the first month it has completed without a loss since December 2019.
Delta to acquire 29 used 737s and seven used A350s
Delta Air Lines will add 29 used Boeing 737-900ER aircraft and seven used Airbus A350-900s to its fleet as passenger demand returns following the more-than year-long global health pandemic.
United signs up to acquire Heart’s in-development electric regional airliner
United Airlines and its regional partner Mesa Airlines have agreed to buy a combined 200 of an all-electric 19-passenger regional aircraft under development by Heart Aerospace.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: July 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, 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 slows 787 production to address forward pressure bulkhead manufacturing issue
Boeing is slowing 787 production in order to address a new manufacturing issue that the company says involves an issue with the jet’s forward pressure bulkhead.
Boeing’s undelivered 787s have another manufacturing problem: FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration has learned of a new manufacturing problem found on the nose section of some undelivered Boeing 787s – an issue that Boeing must address before delivering the jets.
Transat pilots accept deal to return to work
Pilots at Canada’s low-cost vacation specialist Air Transat have accepted a new contract, clearing a path for them to return to work when the airline resumes service, now scheduled for 30 July.
NASA’s X-56B UAV destroyed in crash on 9 July
NASA’s X-56B unmanned air vehicle was destroyed in a crash after suffering an “anomaly in flight”.
AOPA blasts FAA for policy change on certain types of aircraft
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is sharply criticising the Federal Aviation Administration for a sudden policy change regarding giving or receiving flight instruction in several categories of general aviation aircraft.
Porter confirms cancelling ‘conditional order’ for 30 Airbus A220s
After announcing an order of 30 Embraer 195-E2 jets in addition to a route expansion, Canada’s Porter Airlines says it has cancelled an earlier letter of intent to acquire a similar number of Airbus A220s.
BBAM orders another 12 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters
US aircraft lessor BBAM Limited Partnership has ordered another 12 Boeing 737-800 converted freighters, throwing further momentum behind the conversion programme at a time of heightened air cargo demand.
Ditched Transair 737-200 wreckage pictured on sea floor off Honolulu
US investigators have released images of the Rhoades Aviation Boeing 737-200C which ditched off the coast of Hawaii shortly after departing Honolulu.
Will Roper, former USAF acquisition chief, named CEO of drone cargo delivery start-up Volansi
Will Roper, former chief of US Air Force aircraft development and acquisition, has been named chief executive of Volansi, a start-up developing unmanned air vehicles for cargo delivery.
US government to regulate airlines' ancillary fees
The US government will regulate airlines’ ancillary fees as part of a broad executive order the White House says will improve competitiveness, strengthen consumer rights and counter “the trend of corporate consolidation”.
Finnair steps into long-haul leisure routes from Stockholm
Oneworld alliance carrier Finnair is to branch into long-haul operations from the Swedish capital Stockholm, operating to destinations in the USA and Thailand.
FAA imposes new ‘cumbersome’ rules for some pilot training, citing improved safety
In what one general aviation (GA) lobby group calls “a stunning turnabout”, the Federal Aviation Administration has ruled that owners of certain types of aircraft and flight instructors who teach in those aircraft must obtain additional documentation for flight lessons.
Why the US Air Force plans to make a digital replica of the F-16 fighter
The US Air Force plans to disassemble and make 3D digital scans of two Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters mothballed in the Arizona desert.
FAA set to require inspections of more 737NG aft pressure bulkheads
The Federal Aviation Administration seeks to subject hundreds of additional Boeing 737NGs to inspections following more reports of cracks in aft pressure bulkheads.
Premature Bell 212 rotor strap pin failures spur urgent inspection order
Canadian authorities have ordered urgent replacement of rotor hub strap pins on certain Bell helicopters after premature failure of the component was found during investigation of a fatal Bell 212 crash.
Two months after launch, Avelo cuts destination cities, raises prices
Just over two months after launching operations, US startup carrier Avelo Airlines is pulling back service to several of its launch cities, and raising prices.
US travel lobby groups urge swift reopening to foreign visitors
Aviation and travel lobby groups have once again urged the US government to ease restrictions on foreign visitors as coronavirus case counts decline and vaccinations increase.
US Air Force detonates warhead for ARRW hypersonic missile for first time
The US Air Force (USAF) has detonated an AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) warhead for the first time.
United’s order reinvigorates Max programme, but Airbus deal casts unwelcome shadow
There is no getting away from the fact that United Airlines’ recent 200-unit order for Boeing’s 737 Max throws considerable – and much needed – additional momentum behind the programme, even if the airframer had to offer a significant discount to secure the business. But the carrier’s simultaneous deal with Airbus for another large batch of A321neos will be an unwelcome reminder that the European airframer is continuing to encroach on Boeing’s turf.
US Air Force releases rendering of B-21 Raider stealth bomber with unusual windows
The US Air Force (USAF) has released a new rendering of the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider stealth bomber, showing an unusual window layout.
WestJet names Diederik Pen as new COO
Canada’s WestJet has appointed former Wizz Air executive Diederik Pen to be its next chief operations officer.
Skyborg shows broader capability by piloting a General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger
The US Air Force’s Skyborg system controlled a General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-20 Avenger unmanned air vehicle during a recent flight test, demonstrating for the first time that the autonomous system can be used on different types of aircraft.
Number of US air travellers exceeded 2019 levels two days last week
More people travelled by air on two consecutive days around last weekend’s US Independence Day holiday weekend than did on the same days in pre-coronavirus 2019, the government agency responsible for airport security says.
Air Canada to reinstate more international routes
Air Canada is reinstating numerous international routes as the government of Canada begins to tentatively relax coronavirus-driven rules for inbound travellers.
Marshall completes support work on first USMC KC-130J
MRO specialist Marshall Aerospace & Defence Group has returned the US Marine Corps’ first Lockheed Martin KC-130J tanker/transport to have undergone depot-level maintenance at its Cambridge airport site in the UK.
Sonar scan to aid recovery of ditched Transair 737’s flight recorders
US investigators are aiming to conduct a sonar scan of underwater wreckage and debris following the Transair Boeing 737-200 freighter crash off Hawaii on 2 July.
Canada’s Porter to restart flights in September with federal aid
Porter Airlines intends to resume operations on 8 September, following months of delays as the regional carrier watched for signs that Canada would loosen travel restrictions and that demand for flights would return.
Transair 737-200 crash crew believed both engines were failing
Air-ground communications from the crew of a Boeing 737-200 which ditched off Honolulu on 2 July indicate the pilots were dealing with an engine failure and believed the other engine was also on the verge of failing.
First US Marine Corps squadron declares full operational capability for F-35C
US Marine Corps (USMC) fighter attack squadron 314, based at MCAS Miramar in California, has become the first within the service to declare that its Lockheed Martin F-35C stealth fighters have reached full operational capability.
USAF awards Raytheon $2bn for next stage of LRSO nuclear cruise missile programme
The US Air Force (USAF) has awarded Raytheon a $2 billion contract to start the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase of the Long Range Standoff (LRSO) nuclear cruise missile programme.
US House bill addresses hazards around transporting lithium batteries
The US House of Representatives has voted to approve an infrastructure bill that also addresses hazards in the air transportation of lithium batteries.
Transair 737 ditches off Hawaii after experiencing engine trouble
A cargo aircraft that had just departed from Honolulu made an emergency landing in the ocean after experiencing engine trouble.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: Early call for aircraft orders
This is an industry that has to both plan for and bet on future demand, and while United’s order may feel like a resumption of business as usual for airlines, the reality is that the here and now remains firmly in crisis.
Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band ready for production: US Navy
The US Navy (USN) has given the green light for the Raytheon-made Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band to start low-rate initial production, after finishing the Milestone C assessment for the programme.
Aero Capital orders seven more AEI 737-800 converted freighters
Texas aircraft lessor Aero Capital Solutions has committed to convert seven Boeing 737-800s into freighters under Aeronautical Engineers’ (AEI) supplemental type certificate, with modifications starting in January 2022.
Canada among new additions to EU ‘safe list’ for travel
Canada heads a list 11 states or territories that the European Union has added to its list of destinations where it is recommending member states lift restrictions on non-essential travel into the bloc.
Former GE executive West to succeed Smith as Boeing CFO
Brian West, chief financial officer of data provider Refinitiv and formerly with GE Aviation, will succeed Greg Smith as Boeing CFO effective 27 August.
Eviation changes Alice design, performance specifications shift
Eviation Aircraft confirms it has significantly shifted the design of its in-development Alice all-electric aircraft, and says it remains on track for a first flight this year.
A220 pilot manuals revised to avert low-thrust take-off incidents
Airbus Canada has revised the A220 flight operations manual to emphasise the correct setting of thrust levers during departure, after a series of incidents in which the autothrottle did not engage on take-off.
Alaska aims to become ‘most fuel-efficient’ US airline: CEO
Alaska Airlines is aiming to become the most fuel-efficient US airline in the next five years, the airline’s chief executive says.
Bombardier receives order for 10 jets worth $452m
Canada’s Bombardier has received a firm order for 10 aircraft from an undisclosed existing customer worth $452 million.
Confusing NOTAMs led overrun 747 crew to believe longer runway was unavailable
Investigators probing the overrun that destroyed a Boeing 747-400F at Halifax have highlighted the contribution of poorly-presented NOTAM information to the accident.
Ravn Alaska considering using 757s to launch new operation: reports
Alaskan regional airline Ravn Alaska is reportedly considering a major expansion, using Boeing 757s to launch flights from its home state to Asia and the contiguous USA.
Sky Lease 747 wrecked after minor factors conspired to cause Halifax overrun
Canadian investigators have found that belated braking during a Boeing 747-400F’s landing at Halifax led to its overrunning the runway and being written off as a result of substantial damage.
ATSG leasing unit accelerates plan to add A321 converted freighters
Lessor Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) is set to add its first Airbus freighters after announcing a deal to purchase two A321s in response to customer demand.
US Air Force stands up new electronic warfare wing
In light of a growing need for electronic warfare capabilities, the US Air Force has stood up the 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing.
United’s fleet renewal plan cements CEO Kirby’s legacy
In addition to disclosing an order for 270 more Airbus and Boeing narrowbodies on 29 June, Kirby says United’s focus has shifted toward strengthening its presence in large markets – and less on small markets. United has also recently committed to acquiring electric air taxis and supersonic jets, and pledged to invest in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
United views 737 Max 7s as potential 737-700 replacements
United Airlines may look to the Boeing 737 Max 7 aircraft, the smallest member of the re-engineered 737 Max family, when it comes time to retire its 737-700 aircraft, a company executive says.
United Airlines still undecided on 757-300 replacements: CEO Kirby
Although United Airlines will use incoming Airbus A321neos and Boeing 737 Max jets to replace its ageing 757-200s, the new aircraft will not supplant its larger 757-300s.
United not 'in the market' for 100-seaters, says chief Kirby
United Airlines has no plans to acquire narrowbody aircraft in the 100-130-seat class – a category filled by jets like the Airbus A220 and Embraer E-Jet family.
United orders 270 Airbus and Boeing narrowbodies, plans to retire 200 50-seat jets
United Airlines has placed orders for a combined 270 Airbus and Boeing narrowbody jets, including 200 737 Max and 70 A321neos – a pair of massive deals that signal that the US airline industry is recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Number of women leading top airlines doubles in space of months
While there has arguably been remarkably little executive churn at the top of airlines during the pandemic, the past few months suggest that might be starting to change – and that some positive trends could emerge from the crisis.
ZeroAvia obtains Dornier 228s for 19-seat hydrogen-electric demonstration
Advanced propulsion specialist ZeroAvia has acquired a pair of Dornier 228 turboprops for research, as it seeks to progress towards developing a 19-seat hydrogen-electric powered aircraft.
GECAS orders three more 777-300ERSF converted freighters
GECAS is exercising options on a contract with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to convert three additional Boeing 777-300ER passenger planes to 777-300ERSF freighters.
US Navy to purchase nine additional Sikorsky CH-53K heavy-lift helicopters
The US Navy has awarded Sikorsky a $879 million contract for nine more CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopters.
ALPA calls on FAA to require ‘secondary’ cockpit barriers
The largest US pilot union is urging the US government to take additional steps to prevent passengers from gaining access to cockpits, saying a recent spike in air-rage incidents signals a need for better security.
CAE on track to close purchase of L3Harris’ military training business on 2 July
Canadian pilot training company CAE has received required regulatory approvals for its planned purchase of L3Harris Technologies’ military training business and now expects the acquisition will close on 2 July.
Swissport chief Warwick Brady outlines ambitions for restructured handling giant
With a reduction in debt of €1.9 billion and a capital injection of €500 million, Swissport is aiming to emerge from the pandemic as a leaner but stronger business.
Boeing must complete more 777-9 analysis and address regulatory concerns: FAA
Boeing will need to complete more 777-9 analysis and assuage regulatory concerns, including those related to design changes, prior to the Federal Aviation Administration agreeing the jet is on track to meet certification requirements.
Unidentified phenomena pose flight-safety threat and potential broader risks: US government
Preliminary US intelligence analysis of unidentified aerial phenomena has concluded that such incidents are at least a threat to flight safety and potentially present a broader hazard.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: Two very different CEO departures
This week saw two low-cost carriers announce changes at the top of their businesses, where the similarities between the stories begin and end with the business model.
How NASA intends to make the next narrowbody airliners 25% more efficient
NASA’s new Sustainable Flight National Partnership aims to boost the efficiency of the next generation of single-aisle jets by up to a quarter and simultaneously enhance competitiveness of the US aerospace industry.
FAA to expand proposed inspections related to 737NG structure-related ‘gaps’
The Federal Aviation Administration intends to propose a new, expanded rule after learning that a structure concern involving “un-shimmed gaps” in some Boeing 737NGs is broader than previously suspected.
Eve partners with Blade to offer US air taxi flights
Embraer-backed air taxi developer Eve Urban Air Mobility Solutions has agreed to provide Blade Air Mobility with up to 60 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, for use in the USA starting in 2026.
WestJet makes cargo move with 737-800 freighters
Canadian carrier WestJet will launch dedicated freighter operations following the delivery of a Boeing 737-800 converted freighter.
Bell ends V-280 test flights ahead of US Army’s FLRAA competition
Bell has finished its flight-test programme of the V-280 Valor tiltrotor ahead of the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft request for proposal that is anticipated to be released by the US Army this summer.
United, with one of USA’s oldest fleets, poised for huge aircraft order: reports
United Airlines is reportedly preparing to announce a large aircraft order, possibly next week, a move that could set United on a path to replacing what is among the US airline industry’s oldest fleet.
US Air Force’s Agility Prime funds eSTOL test flights in 2022
The US Air Force’s Agility Prime programme has signed a contract with start-up Electra Aero to build and flight demonstrate a prototype hybrid-electric short take-off and landing aircraft in 2022.
Southwest Airlines chief to step down in February 2022
Southwest Airlines’ chief executive Gary Kelly will step down from his role in early 2022, after having led the US low-cost carrier through aviation’s most devastating crisis.
Lufthansa tentatively reinstates full US network from second half of July
Lufthansa tentatively plans to reinstate its full US network from the second half of July, using its “big Atlantic fleet”, amid uncertainty over when Washington will relax its travel restrictions.
US Air Force funds development of pulsejet-powered air decoy
The US Air Force is funding development of a new pulsejet-powered decoy as it continues seeking cheaper and simpler forms of unmanned air vehicle (UAV) and cruise missile propulsion.
Transat ends takeover negotiations with Peladeau
Transat AT on 21 June announced the end of a special committee charged with reviewing takeover bids, adding that billionaire investor Pierre Karl Peladeau has withdrawn his offer to purchase control of the tourism provider due to lack of shareholder interest.
Boeing fires chief political lobbyist Tim Keating: Reports
Boeing’s chief political lobbyist in Washington DC, Tim Keating, has abruptly left the company.
American’s cancellation issues stem from pilot scarcity: Union
American Airlines’ cancellation of hundreds of flights in the past few days stems primarily due to a lack of trained and current pilots, union officials say.
Europe certificates updated Cessna CJ4 Gen2
European regulators have certificated Textron Aviation’s Cessna CJ4 Gen2, clearing a path for the airframer to begin delivering the upgraded light jet variant to the first European customer before the end of June.
US Marine Corps to buy UVision Hero-120 loitering munition
The US Marine Corps plans to acquire an undisclosed number of UVision Hero-120 loitering munitions to be mounted and launched from two types of armoured ground vehicles and an autonomous boat.
Canada ends 14-day quarantine for vaccinated citizens and residents
Canada will begin to ease travel restrictions for travellers vaccinated against Covid-19 beginning on 5 July, but has yet to present a comprehensive re-opening plan following the global pandemic.
US airline industry calls for swift prosecution of belligerent passengers
US airline trade groups have called upon the government to quickly and uniformly prosecute passengers who are accused of unruly behaviour, and are increasingly creating a safety hazard on flights.
American cancels hundreds of flights through July
American Airlines is cancelling hundreds of flights through July due to staffing shortages and anticipated bad weather.
Boeing 737 Max 10 makes maiden flight
Boeing’s 737 Max 10 lifted off from Renton Municipal airport at 10:07 local time on 18 June, beginning a maiden flight expected to last 2h.
Canadian authority warns operators over 5G risk to radio altimeters
Canadian authorities are warning operators of the potential risk of interference to radio altimeters arising from 5G communications networks, following auction of part of the frequency spectrum.
USAF seeks initial bids to deliver “Bridge” tankers after 2029 under KC-Y effort
The US Air Force is seeking industrial partners to deliver up to 160 “Bridge” tankers, a commercial aircraft-based aerial refueling jet that the service intends to acquire after Boeing stops producing KC-46As in 2029.
EU recommends lifting travel restrictions for US residents
The Council of the European Union has added the USA to its list of countries for which travel restrictions should be lifted.
Boeing’s 737 Max 10 prepares to make first flight
Boeing’s 737 Max 10 is scheduled to take off on its maiden flight on 18 June, beginning a certification campaign that Boeing aims to end in time for deliveries to start in 2023.
Airline Business Index shows industry below two-thirds of pre-Covid size
The latest quarterly Airline Business Index shows the global airline industry is still below two-thirds of its pre-pandemic size, at a score of 60 (2019 = 100), with only a small uptick in the data over the three months to 31 March 2021.
Magnix rolls out two more-powerful electric propulsion systems
Electric propulsion company Magnix has unveiled two new, more-powerful electric propulsion units (EPUs) for commercial aircraft, replacing earlier systems, including one that powered several all-electric demonstration flights.
De Havilland begins ‘decommissioning’ Downsview production site, but could retain presence
De Havilland Canada has started “decommissioning” its Dash 8-400 manufacturing site in Toronto and will soon pause production, but remains hopeful in retaining some presence at the site in the city’s Downsview section.
FAA mandates inspections for 737 Max flight control systems
The Federal Aviation Administration has mandated that US airlines perform repeated inspections of aspects of Boeing 737 Max flight control systems.
US Air Force T-7A advanced jet trainer delayed by up to 15 months
The US Air Force’s T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer has fallen as much as 15 months behind schedule after parts shortages, initial design delays and the discovery of aircraft wing rock.
David Curtis, head of Viking and De Havilland parent Longview, to retire
David Curtis, executive chairman of Canadian aerospace company Longview Aviation Capital, will retire on 1 August, ending a nearly 40-year tenure during which Longview acquired major aircraft programmes including the Viking Air Twin Otter and De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Dash 8.
US DOT plans to fine Air Canada $25.5m for ticket refund delays
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) is looking to impose a $25.5 million civil penalty on Air Canada after the carrier dragged its feet on refunding tickets held by US passengers.
US nominates Sullenberger to ICAO post
The administration of US President Joe Biden has nominated former airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger to be its next ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
US and Europe commit to preventing transfer of aerospace technology to ‘non-market’ economies
The US government and European Union will collaborate to help prevent aerospace technology from falling into the hands of “state-financed competitors” and so-called “non-market economies”.
Southwest grounds operations due to computer ‘issues’
Southwest Airlines grounded operations on 15 June due to computer issues, marking the second time in two days that the airline suffered significant operational problems.
Cheap fuel killed propfan concepts decades ago. Can CFM’s revived concept endure?
As before, experts agree propfans have real ability to bring significant efficiency gains to the next generation of commercial airliners – in this case, the jets Airbus and Boeing are expected to bring to market in the 2030s.
End in sight for prolonged Airbus-Boeing dispute as US and EU agree funding framework
Airbus is encouraged by plans to end the long-running transatlantic dispute over subsidies for large civil aircraft programmes through a series of steps outlined by a co-operative framework.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: June 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, 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.
Lufthansa eyes positive cash flow in Q2
Lufthansa Group is reporting a significant surge in air travel bookings and predicting positive cash flow in the second quarter of 2021 thanks partly to its restructuring.
Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota to be first operational base for B-21 stealth bomber
The base will also host the stealth bomber’s formal training unit.
US Army looks for vehicle-launched swarming loitering munition ideas
The US Army is looking for prototypes and ideas for loitering munitions swarms that can work together with little or no control from a human operator.
WestJet introduces flights to Amsterdam, resumes Gatwick connections
WestJet will introduce seasonal service to Amsterdam, and resume service to London’s Gatwick airport as the global pandemic wanes and Canada looks set to ease travel restrictions.
The many challenges facing the air taxi vision
Regulators could clear air taxi flights as soon as 2024, but questions about the business case remain unsettled
Lockheed Martin to produce 133 to 139 F-35s in 2021 as Covid hangover lingers
Lockheed Martin plans to manufacture between 133 and 139 examples of its F-35 stealth fighter in 2021, a number about the same as 2019 levels, but below previous projections as the programme continues to feel the lingering effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: Let us fly again, please
Several of the world’s largest airlines began the week with a rare show of unity during a joint press conference to demand that governments open up UK-USA travel.
Time for action on reopening UK-US market: Gallego
IAG chief executive Luis Gallego is calling for action in re-opening the US-UK aviation market after plans for a taskforce to study the opening up of the market emerged.
Transat limps out of fiscal Q2, hopes to restart operations on 30 July
Transat AT, the parent company of Canadian leisure airline Air Transat, continues to struggle as its operations remain suspended amid uncertainty about when Canada will lift its pandemic-driven travel restrictions.
United negotiating to buy Airbus and Boeing narrowbody jets: reports
United Airlines is reportedly talking with Airbus and Boeing about purchasing a total of 200 aircraft, including jets from both airframers.
United Airlines forms venture-capital arm to advance clean-energy technology
United Airlines has formed an investment company called United Airlines Ventures, through which the carrier intends to invest in emerging clean-energy technologies.
‘I’ve never seen such a dramatic swing and recovery’: Alaska Airlines CEO
Alaska Airlines expects to be profitable in the third quarter of this year, as it benefits from what chief executive Ben Minicucci describes as a “dramatic recovery”.
Porpoising and bounced landing badly damaged Atlas Air 767
US investigators have determined that improper flare technique led to a porpoised and bounced landing at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, badly damaging an Atlas Air Boeing 767-300ER.
FAA forming committee to develop ‘beyond line of sight’ drone rules
The Federal Aviation Administration is convening a committee tasked with recommending rules to permit “beyond line of sight” drone operations, a step toward allowing significantly broader use of unmanned aircraft.
JetBlue sees Q2 capacity down 15% compared to 2019
JetBlue Airways expects second quarter capacity to be 15% lower than during the same period in pre-coronavirus 2019 as the airline gears up for progressively higher demand as vaccination rates rise and fears around Covid-19 fade.
Canada ditches government hotel-stay quarantine for vaccinated citizens
Canada plans to allow vaccinated citizens and permanent residents arriving from abroad to bypass the mandatory quarantine in a government-authorised facility, a first tentative step as in the country’s re-opening to international travel.
WestJet chief executive Sims to retire at the end of 2021
WestJet chief executive and president Ed Sims will retire at the end of the year, citing family reasons.
Electra Aero unveils concept for seven-passenger commuter aircraft
Electra Aero, a company started by the founder of aerospace innovator Aurora Flight Sciences, has become the latest in a string of aerospace start-ups to unveil the design of an electric aircraft.
Ravn Alaska agrees to purchase Airflow’s in-development electric fixed-wing aircraft
Alaskan airline Ravn Alaska intends to purchase electric-powered short take-off and landing (eSTOL) aircraft being developed by San Francisco-area start-up Airflow.
US lifts 'do not travel' warning for Canada, Mexico, much of Europe
The US State Department has lowered its risk profile for travel to Canada and Mexico, just as Canada also considers easing some of its own strict restrictions for travellers who have been vaccinated against the coronavirus.
Boeing’s orders jumped by 20 jets in May
Boeing marked a fourth consecutive month of positive order activity in May, with orders jumping by 20 aircraft despite dozens of additional cancellations.
April air cargo demand up 12% from pre-crisis level: IATA
Global air cargo demand in April was up 12% from pre-crisis levels, according to IATA, as the sector continues to offer a rare positive airline story during the Covid-19 crisis.
Southwest orders 34 more 737 Max 7s
Southwest Airlines has ordered another 34 Boeing 737 Max 7s, bringing its total Max 7 orders to 234 jets in a move the company says reflects an improving financial outlook.
US Navy’s unmanned MQ-25 demos air-to-air refuelling of F/A-18 Super Hornet for first time
The US Navy’s Boeing MQ-25 Stingray unmanned air vehicle has demonstrated in-flight refuelling of an F/A-18F Super Hornet for the first time.
Macquarie to sell FBO operator Atlantic to investment firm KKR
New York Investment company KKR, which holds a substantial aviation portfolio, has agreed to purchase fixed-base operator Atlantic Aviation from Macquarie Infrastructure for $4.48 billion in cash and debt.
Garmin wins Collier Trophy for auto-land system
Garmin has won the 2020 Robert J Collier Trophy for its Autoland system – a technology approved for three general aviation aircraft that can complete fully autonomous landings in the event pilots become incapacitated.
Airline CEOs call for reopening of UK-USA travel corridor
The chief executives of the US and UK airlines that offer passenger services between the two countries have joined forces to call for the reopening of transatlantic travel.
Mis-rigged trim tabs discovered after fatal Navajo crash in South Carolina
Investigators probing a fatal accident involving a Piper PA-31P Navajo, on its first flight after maintenance, have discovered that elevator trim tabs were installed upside-down.
France opens to vaccinated US tourists on 9 June
France will open its borders to vaccinated US tourists next week, provided they bring a negative Covid test result that is less than 72 hours old.
US Air Force gets serious about delivering military cargo via space rocket
The US Air Force has named “Rocket Cargo” as its fourth “Vanguard” programme, meaning the concept is a top science and technology development priority for the service.
US and Canadian airlines call for border opening
US and Canadian airlines have appealed to the government of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau to ease travel restrictions between the countries, insisting high vaccination rates on both sides of the border make safe travel possible.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: A week of Boom and bust
If ever a week has demonstrated how much the luck of an airline’s home market is dictating its fortunes during the crisis, this was it.
Biden curtails US investment in AVIC, other aerospace players
US President Joe Biden has issued an executive order that bars US securities investment in 57 Chinese companies with defence ties, with airframer AVIC featuring prominently on the list.
JetBlue picks Airbus for A220 component MRO services
JetBlue Airways has signed a long-term Flight Hour Services component MRO contract with Airbus, becoming the airframer’s first North American customer for the service.
Boeing lost confidence in Aerion investment, remains committed to Wisk: Boeing CEO
Following the recent shuttering of Boeing-backed supersonic aircraft developer Aerion, Boeing’s chief executive says his company lost confidence in the value of its investment in supersonic start-ups.
Long term, Boeing expects 787 deliveries will hit pre-pandemic levels: CEO
Boeing intends eventually to ramp up 787 production to a pre-pandemic level of 14 jets monthly despite a decision to end production at one of two sites.
Calhoun again urges for improved US-China trade relations
Boeing’s chief executive is again calling on the US government to normalise trade relations with China, a country that accounts for a vast portion of Boeing’s historic and potential aircraft sales.
American expects business travel to return more quickly
American Airlines says business travel is returning more quickly than originally expected, and leisure bookings will continue to remain strong through the coming months.
Boeing preps to begin 2021 ‘ecoDemonstrator’ programme using 737 Max 9
Boeing will continue its ecoDemonstrator programme in 2021, using a 737 Max 9 to evaluate new cabin sidewalls, 3D-printed cabin air vents, noise-reducing engine nacelles and a new fire-fighting chemical. The company will also use the jet to evaluate flight-control technology, atmosphere-measuring equipment and the use of biofuel.
Is IATA right to call for ‘data-driven decisions’ on international travel?
IATA’s belief is that draconian government restrictions are standing in the way of a meaningful restart of international travel, and that data proves those restrictions are an overreaction to the actual risks.
United to purchase 15 of Boom Supersonic’s Overture, financial commitment undisclosed
United Airlines has agreed to purchase 15 of Boom Supersonic’s in-development faster-than-sound airliner Overture, joining at least two other airlines that have partnered with Boom.
Airlines invited to bid for Oneworld London-US summer 2022 slots
Airlines have been invited to apply for slots between London and the USA, as part of interim measures imposed to address concerns over transatlantic routes operated under the Oneworld alliance’s joint business arrangement.
US Air Force beefs up BACN fleet
Bombardier’s Learjet unit has secured a US Air Force contract worth up to $465 million for a potential six E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) aircraft.
Red 6, augmented realty fighter pilot training start-up, raises $30 million
Red 6, an augmented reality fighter pilot training start-up, has raised a $30 million round of financing.
The airline start-ups trying to confound Covid crisis by launching during pandemic
FlightGlobal has spoken to the leaders behind start-ups across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas about their respective launch carriers’ ambitions and for perspectives on starting an airline during the crisis.
P&W matures low-emission technologies but near-term focus rests on GTF
A cadre of engineers and scientists at Pratt & Whitney and other companies within the Raytheon Technologies group are busy advancing next-generation technologies, like electric propulsion and the use of hydrogen fuel.
US Air Force asks to retire 201 older aircraft, plans to invest in R&D and new aircraft
The US Air Force is asking the US Congress to let it retire 201 aircraft in fiscal year 2022, in order to reinvest savings from not operating and maintaining those aircraft into research and development, as well as procurement of next-generation aircraft and weapons.
NASA launches programme to support future single-aisle commercial aircraft
NASA aims to launch a programme to advance technologies needed to support development of a “next-generation single-aisle” transport aircraft that is 25% more efficient than jets flying today.
US FAA calls for ‘extreme caution’ when flying over Belarus
The US Federal Aviation Administration has urged US airlines to “exercise extreme caution” when overflying Belarus.
US Air Force completes Golden Horde autonomous bomb testing
Six modified Boeing GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs, dropped simultaneously from two Lockheed Martin F-16s, established communications with each other and a ground station, and after receiving new instructions mid-flight, autonomously swarmed and hit two targets.
President Biden proposes tax credits for biofuel and hydrogen production
President Joe Biden has proposed instituting tax credits for the production of both hydrogen fuel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a move mirroring broader support from industry and lawmakers for aviation-related clean-fuel subsidies.
After FAA requests more data, Boeing halts 787 deliveries again
Boeing has again halted 787 deliveries, this time after the Federal Aviation Administration declined to approve a Boeing-proposed algorithm related to inspections of a fuselage issue.
Canadian airlines welcome recommendation to end federal quarantine mandate
Canadian airlines are welcoming a report published by that government’s health advisory board recommending an end to a mandatory quarantine requirement for inbound international travellers.
IATA chief economist signs off with optimistic outlook for airline recovery
Brian Pearce’s final IATA media briefing as the association’s chief economist saw him provide a relatively positive industry outlook, after a year in which he had become accustomed to delivering unimaginably bleak news about airline fortunes.
Canadian travel sector presses government for reopening strategy
Representatives from Canada’s airlines, airports and tourism sector have called on the government to quickly develop a national strategy to reopen the country to travel.
Hawaiian shutters Ohana regional subsidiary
Hawaiian Airlines has pulled the plug on its Ohana by Hawaiian subsidiary as the pandemic and ongoing risk mitigation measures have led to a sharp decline in neighbour island service demand.
USAF bungling caused KC-46’s $100m refuelling boom redesign: Inspector General
By overlooking design changes made by Boeing to the KC-46A’s refuelling boom, the US Air Force (USAF) missed an opportunity to catch problems early and stave off a $100 million redesign effort.
Breeze Airways gets airborne with first flight from Tampa to Charleston
The first Breeze Airways flight took off from Tampa International airport at 10:44 local time on 27 May, marking the launch of a new US airline and another chapter in the start-up-studded career of founder David Neeleman.
USAF should consider supersonic business jets for battlefield management: think tank
The Mitchell Institute is calling on the US Air Force to consider using in-development supersonic business jets as next-generation command and control aircraft.
Transat COO Guerard to succeed retiring chief Eustache
Transat AT chief operations officer Annick Guerard will become chief executive of the company on 27 May, succeeding current CEO Jean-Marc Eustache, who is retiring.
Honda unveils new HondaJet variant, Elite S
Honda Aircraft has unveiled a new variant of its HondaJet, the Elite S, which has upgraded avionics and 120nm additional range.
IATA expects airline passenger numbers to exceed pre-Covid levels in 2023
Airline industry body IATA has outlined an “optimistic” outlook for the Covid-19 recovery, forecasting that pre-crisis passenger numbers will be exceeded as soon as 2023.
US-Mexico flights continue despite safety downgrade, Delta strips code from Aeromexico flights
US carriers will continue to operate flights to Mexico normally following the Federal Aviation Administration’s recent downgrade of the country following a safety evaluation.
Airline recovery brings fresh cash-crunch risk as costs return: IATA chief
Airlines will face a new cash-crunch challenge as the resumption of operations sees a range of costs return alongside a lack of liquidity from forward bookings, in the view of IATA director general Willie Walsh.
Post-summer US travel demand uncertain: American
At the moment, US airlines are riding a surge in demand for domestic leisure travel this summer.
Lawmakers urge Biden, FAA to address Belarus overflight concern
Two US lawmakers are warning that airspace over Belarus is “not safe” for critics of that country’s government, calling a 23 May diversion of a Ryanair flight to Minsk “state-sponsored hijacking”.
P&W views ‘sole-source’ contract as required for development of next commercial engine
Developing a new commercial aircraft engine will be tough to justify for Pratt & Whitney without an airframer committing to a single engine type for their next clean-sheet commercial aircraft.
US Navy declares Joint Precision Approach and Landing System operational
The US Navy has declared initial operational capability (IOC) for Raytheon’s Joint Precision Approach and Landing System aboard its nuclear aircraft carriers.
FAA orders more V2500 disk inspections, citing ‘uncontained’ failure risk
The Federal Aviation Administration has issued an emergency order requiring aircraft operators to inspect high-pressure turbine disks in some International Aero Engines V2500s, which power Airbus A320-family jets.
Raytheon looks at integrating AMRAAM-ER in F-35A internal carriage
The US Air Force’s F-35A could field two examples of the larger missile, one in each internal weapons bay.
P&W aims for new Asheville site to begin producing airfoils in 2022
Pratt & Whitney intends to begin producing high-pressure turbine airfoils for commercial and military aircraft engines at its new North Carolina facility by the second half of 2022.
Delta hires GE executive Janki as new CFO
Delta Air Lines has hired longtime General Electric executive Daniel Janki as its next chief financial officer.
Neeleman’s Breeze Airways to be airborne from 27 May
Breeze Airways, the new low-cost airline led by serial aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman will begin operating flights next week, spooling up to a network of 39 routes between 16 cities across the eastern half of the USA by July.
WestJet 737 overrun crew did not anticipate tailwind from runway change
Canadian investigators believe a WestJet Boeing 737-800 overran at Halifax after its crew failed to realise that a landing runway change would result in a tailwind, rather than a crosswind, during the approach.
US Special Operations Command explores amphibious MC-130 transport concept
The US Special Operations Command is exploring turning its Lockheed Martin MC-130J into an amphibious aircraft by adding two large floats below its hull.
General Atomics teases new addition to its portfolio of air-launched effects
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems is teasing a new air-launched effect, a part of a growing portfolio of in-development drones that it plans to launch from its MQ-9A Reaper and MQ-1C Gray Eagle unmanned air vehicles.
US start-up Global Crossing to lease A321P2Fs from ST Engineering
Singapore-based ST Engineering’s aircraft management business will lease up to five Airbus A321P2F converted freighters to US start-up Global Crossing Airlines, with deliveries to begin in 2022.
Cirrus warned not to overshoot turn before Colorado collision
Investigators probing the mid-air collision involving a Fairchild Metroliner and a Cirrus SR22 over Colorado are trying to establish why the Cirrus apparently overshot its final approach path after each aircraft was cleared to land on separate – but closely-spaced – parallel runways.
Boeing’s many hurdles on the path to recovery
Boeing executives insist the company has solid plans to address its many challenges, but people who follow the airframer are increasingly eager to understand exactly what that plan entails.
Biden arms sales policies face new questions, but similarities to Trump and Obama remain
Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. That’s more or less the conclusion of analysts watching the first few months of US President Joe Biden’s arms export decisions and policy statements.
eVTOL developer Wisk files motion for preliminary injunction against Archer
Urban air mobility aircraft developer Wisk Aero has filed a court motion to prevent competitor Archer Aviation from using what it calls its “confidential trade secrets” it claims Archer stole, before the case goes to trial.
US Air Force tests using F-15’s EPAWSS to clear path for F-35
At its Northern Edge 21 exercises in Alaska, the US Air Force (USAF) tested the Boeing F-15 conducting an electronic attack to clear a path for a Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter.
FAA dishing out hefty fines to combat surge in ‘unruly’ air passengers
The Federal Administration has been dishing out more and higher fines in recent weeks to combat a surge disturbances caused by “unruly” passengers, including incidents involving violence against flight crew.
US lawmakers seek ‘records’ related to potential ongoing 737 and 787 production issues
Two US lawmakers have requested additional records from Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration related to “continued issues” involving 737 Max and 787 production and quality-control concerns.
US aviation industry seeks a cut of massive infrastructure bill
The US aerospace and airline industries are seeking a slice of the $2 trillion infrastructure-investment proposal working through the US Congress, requesting tax credits, grants and other funds for the purpose of advancing clean-energy technology.
Lufthansa calls for transatlantic air travel corridor as bookings surge
German flag carrier Lufthansa has called for a “clear perspective” on a transatlantic air corridor between the USA and Europe as bookings for long-haul travel surge.
Beta raises $368m to support development of its Alia aircraft
Beta Technologies, a developer of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL), has raised $368 million in funding to support development of its Alia aircraft
Flight schools, instructors face regulatory questions following US court ruling
Flight instructors fear a recent US court ruling could cause major headaches for the pilot-training community, just as airlines begin to again warn of a pilot shortage in the coming years.
Will Airbus transform the aerospace industry?
Two years into the role, Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury has developed a clear plan and is rapidly guiding the manufacturer through necessary transformational changes, writes Patriot Industrial Partners managing director Alex Krutz
Bulgaria’s Cargo Air takes Europe's first AEI 737-800 freighter
Bulgarian operator Cargo Air has become the first European carrier to take delivery of a converted Boeing 737-800 freighter from US specialist Aeronautical Engineers.
Sriwijaya 737-500 crash probe spurs order to check autothrottle computers
Investigations into the fatal Sriwijaya Air Boeing 737-500 accident earlier this year have spurred an order to operators of older 737 variants to conduct autothrottle checks aimed at detecting possible flap synchronisation component failure.
Porter pushes tentative restart from June to July
Porter Airlines will delay its tentative date for resuming flights to 20 July, marking the 10th time the regional airline has moved the date forward since shuttering its operations at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic downturn in March 2020.
Babcock, Leonardo to jointly pursue Canada’s Future Aircrew Training programme
Babcock Canada and Leonardo Canada have signed a letter of intent to jointly pursue Canada’s Future Aircrew Training Program (FAcT).
Eviation receives Alice’s first Magnix electric propulsion unit
Eviation Aircraft has received the first electric propulsion unit (EPU) for its in-development all-electric passenger aircraft Alice, and still aims to have Alice airborne by year-end.
United expands domestic and international schedule
United Airlines has added 400 daily domestic and international flights to its schedule in anticipation of a run on air travel during the summer vacation season following the coronavirus pandemic-driven downturn.
JetBlue outlines CFO succession plan
JetBlue Airways’ head of treasury and investor relations Ursula Hurley will become acting chief financial officer effective 12 June.
General Atomics MQ-1C Gray Eagle controlled via tablet on ground
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems demonstrated a soldier on the ground using a tablet computer to control an MQ-1C Gray Eagle Extended Range unmanned air vehicle.
FAA grants Breeze Airways air carrier certificate
Breeze Airways, the startup airline from aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, has received its long-awaited air carrier certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration which will allow it to begin passenger revenue operations.
Investor scraps plan to acquire Transat: reports
Canadian billionaire investor Pierre Karl Peladeau has reportedly scrapped his effort to acquire Transat AT, the Montreal company that owns leisure carrier Air Transat.
CDC relaxes mask mandate; face coverings still required for travel
While the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has lifted most mask-wearing requirements for vaccinated people in the USA, it stressed that wearing a face covering while travelling is still mandatory.
GE Aviation finishes testing on first XA100 adaptive cycle engine
The US Air Force is interested in re-engining the Lockheed Martin F-35A stealth fighter with an adaptive engine to increase the aircraft’s 1,200nm (2,222km) range, which is viewed as too short for attacking targets within China.
Spirit again charges JetBlue-American alliance undermines competition
Spirit Airlines has once again complained to the Department of Transportation (DOT) that the “Northeast Alliance” (NEA) between JetBlue Airways and American Airlines is undermining competition.
Southwest expands schedule to Hawaii
Southwest Airlines will greatly expand its flying to the Hawaiian islands from the US mainland beginning in June.
FAA approves Boeing fix for grounded 737 Max electrical issue
Boeing’s fix for the electrical issue that grounded 106 in-service 737 Max and paused delivery of new aircraft has been approved by the FAA.
Airbus procurement chief assigned to lead A220 towards profitability
Airbus systems procurement chief Benoit Schultz is to take over as head of the A220 operation, as chief executive of Airbus Canada, succeeding Philippe Balducchi who has led the division for nearly three years.
American will ‘slowly’ relaunch international routes
American Airlines will bring back long-haul international routes “slowly and cautiously”, accounting for travel restrictions and gauging passenger demand to overseas destinations.
US Air Force shows F-15E loaded with five stealthy JASSMs
The proof-of-concept shows that the F-15E could more than double its capacity of long-range cruise missiles.
Mangled Metroliner lands safely after mid-air collision
Two aircraft collided over Colorado on 12 May, with both landing safely despite extensive damage.
Fractional-jet operator Airshare orders three Challenger 350s, takes 17 options
US fractional jet ownership company Airshare has ordered three Bombardier Challenger 350 business jets and taken options to purchase another 17, with the first three deliveries scheduled for 2021.
AerCap shareholders back GECAS acquisition
Leasing firm AerCap’s shareholders have voted in favour of the proposed merger with US leasing giant GECAS, which the two companies unveiled in March.
Honeywell’s $13m penalty shows it’s tricky doing business with China and Pentagon
Honeywell reached a $13 million settlement with the US Department of State over alleged violations of the Arms Export Control Act and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (better known as ITAR).
US lawmakers aim to prevent cut-rate airlines from operating to the US
The US House of Representatives has introduced a bill that would prevent cut-rate airlines which have been established under “flags of convenience” to operate in the US.
Canada to invest an additional C$700m in airport infrastructure
Canada has set aside C$700 million ($579 million) to support the country’s airport infrastructure as it recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.
Full impact of US pipeline shutdown still unclear, American reroutes two flights
At least one US airline has rerouted flights after a cyber-attack forced the shutdown of a pipeline system that provides nearly half the fuel consumed in the eastern USA.
Boeing’s orders inch higher in April on fewer cancellations
Boeing’s aircraft orders outnumbered cancellations again in April, marking the third consecutive month of order expansion for the Chicago airframer.
B-52 completes long-range kill chain with simulated hypersonic missile attack
The US Air Force demonstrated a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress bomber carrying out a simulated hypersonic missile strike using targeting data from sensors positioned more than 1,000nm (1,852km) away.
321 Precision nears first A321-200PCF delivery, more conversions to begin in June
Aircraft conversion shop 321 Precision Conversions is close to delivering its first Airbus A321 converted freighter, and plans to begin work on a second conversion in June.
Unions squabble over contract for Canadian cargo pilots
Canada’s Unifor union has sharply criticised US-based pilot union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) for “interference” in pilot-contract negotiations with cargo and charter carrier Cargojet.
Arlington Capital buys Triumph’s aerostructures sites, names business ‘Qarbon’
Triumph Group has completed the divestment of three aerostructures manufacturing sites to private equity company Arlington Capital Partners, which has renamed the businesses Qarbon Aerospace.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: May 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, 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.
Super Hornet conducts captive carry test with AARGM-ER
The US Navy has completed the first captive carry test of the Northrop Grumman AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile – Extended Range (AARGM-ER) aboard a Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet.
Breeze backtracks on recruiting college students as flight attendants
Breeze Airways, the new low-cost startup airline founded by entrepreneur David Neeleman, is backtracking on a plan to hire only university students to work as flight attendants after coming under fire for the programme last week.
Kratos to deliver first XQ-58A Valkyrie production unit in a ‘couple of months’ to USAF
Kratos is anticipating that the XQ-58A Valkyrie will move toward operations.
Air Canada loses C$1.3bn in Q1; calls on government to end restrictions
Air Canada continues to haemorrhage cash as the airline’s home country keeps its air carriers in the dark about a time-line for easing strict restrictions that are hindering them from returning to a pre-coronavirus normal.
Airbus chief sees single-aisle ‘triopoly’ with China as early as end-decade
Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury believes its single-aisle duopoly with Boeing could transform into a three-way competition by the end of the decade if China progresses strongly with its Comac C919.
Air Tractor, L3Harris launch AT-802U Sky Warden light attack aircraft
Air Tractor has teamed with L3Harris Technologies to produce the AT-802U Sky Warden, a new variant of its light attack aircraft.
Skyborg autonomy ‘brain’ flies for first time aboard Kratos UTAP-22 UAV
The US Air Force’s (USAF’s) Skyborg autonomy core system flew for the first time aboard a Kratos UTAP-22 Mako tactical unmanned vehicle (UAV) at Tyndall AFB in Florida.
Avelo plans US East Coast expansion with New Haven base
Recently launched US start-up Avelo Airlines will expand to the US East Coast this year with flights from Tweed New Haven airport in Connecticut.
Bombardier makes first-quarter loss but hopes worst of downturn ‘behind us’
Bombardier’s operating business lost $251 million in the first quarter of 2021, but the company’s chief executive insists the aerospace industry has turned a corner and that an upswing is under way.
Sun Country earns $12.4m profit in first quarter
Sun Country Airlines’ diversified business model – which includes scheduled passenger services, charter flights and freight transport – helped propel the airline to a first-quarter profit.
Pilots concerned over increasing space threat as heavy Chinese booster re-enters
North American airline pilot association ALPA International is expressing concern that there is no formal process to warn commercial crews of the increasing risks posed by space debris re-entering the atmosphere.
Boeing to open first 737 freighter conversion line in Latin America
Boeing has tapped Costa Rican MRO Coopesa to launch Latin America’s first Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) production line.
US Air Force signs research contract for ‘Bell’s High Speed VTOL’
The US Air Force Research Laboratory has contracted Bell to research a high-speed vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
Atlas posts $90m profit as cargo business soars
Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings continues to profit from higher freight demand during the global health crisis, as long-haul passenger flights - and the belly cargo that is transported in them - are still far from pre-pandemic levels.
Acubed CEO Cousin takes engineering job at Universal Hydrogen
Mark Cousin, who has been chief executive of Airbus innovation arm Acubed, is leaving that company to be vice-president of engineering at hydrogen-fuel development start-up Universal Hydrogen.
Spirit AeroSystems loses $171m in first quarter on back of 787 and A350 costs
A $72 million charge against two key widebody aircraft programmes, combined with other pandemic-related expenses, pushed Spirit AeroSystems to a $171 million loss in the first quarter of 2021, against a loss of $163 million in the same period of 2020.
AeroVironment lays out vision for teaming aerial drones and robotic vehicles
Long-time tactical drone maker AeroVironment has completed its acquisition of ground robot manufacturer Telerob for $45.4 million in cash and a pay-off of $9.4 million of the firm’s debt.
Allegiant ‘bullish’ about summer travel, after turning small profit
Allegiant Travel Company, the parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air, turned a slim profit in the first three months of the year as the company prepares for a busy summer with a “bullish” outlook.
Domestic and cargo pick-up in March fail to offset international traffic gloom
A strong recovery in the large Chinese domestic market was the key driver for an improved global passenger traffic performance in March, though RPKs still remain two-thirds below pre-crisis levels.
Corrosion caused by storage prompts FAA to order Leap-1B checks
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring airlines perform checks to prevent storage-induced corrosion issues involving CFM International Leap-1B engines.
Environmental impact now part of airline fleet thinking: Udvar-Hazy
While Air Lease executive chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy sees airlines giving greater attention to addressing environmental concerns in their fleet planning amid heightened pressure to tackle aviation’s climate impact, he does not believe it will change the useful life of aircraft.
‘Project Hydra’ connects US Air Force F-35 and F-22 via U-2 spyplane
The US Air Force’s Lockheed Martin F-35 and F-22 stealth fighters passed data to one another using a communications gateway aboard a U-2 spyplane.
Aviation and tourism groups appeal for US-UK travel corridor
US airlines have joined almost 50 other aviation and travel organisations, appealing to the governments of the USA and UK to open up a travel corridor between the two countries “as soon as safely possible”.
Upgrading CH-47 Chinook with more powerful GE T408 turboshaft is feasible: US Army
The US Army believes it is feasible to upgrade its fleet of Boeing CH-47 Chinooks with the GE T408 turboshaft engine.
Perlan plans for 2021 flights following loss of ‘compass’ Enevoldson
Einar Enevoldson was the legendary test pilot behind a project that has flown sailplanes to altitudes exceeding 70,000ft, capturing records and advancing high-altitude scientific research.
US extends mask mandate in airports, aircraft
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the government agency responsible for security screenings across 450 commercial airports, has extended a mandatory face mask requirement by four months.
Commercial aircraft market should reach equilibrium by 2023: Udvar-Hazy
The commercial aircraft market should return to something more like its historical balance by 2023, following an accelerated retirement and replacement cycle, in the view of Air Lease executive chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy.
JetBlue takes delivery of its first A321LR
JetBlue Airways has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321LR aircraft, with which it intends to launch transatlantic service later this year.
Glimmers of optimism for US MRO sector, recovery pace unclear
The Covid-19 pandemic has jumbled the aircraft maintenance and repair industry, driving down prices for some aircraft components and leaving MRO shops reeling from depressed demand.
Profitability will return with business and long-haul travel: United’s Kirby
United Airlines’ chief executive Scott Kirby says that the carrier will not turn a profit until business travellers and long-haul international travellers return in greater numbers.
Transat secures C$700m in government aid
Transat, the parent company of Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat, has reached a deal to borrow up to C$700 million ($569 million) from the Canadian government.
Boeing VC-25B takes $318m loss due to Covid restrictions and supplier dispute
Boeing’s V-25B was snagged by coronavirus restrictions and a dispute with a supplier in the first quarter of 2021, causing the company to report a $318 million loss on the Presidential Aircraft Replacement programme.
Spirit AeroSystems acquires MRO provider Applied Aerodynamics
Aerostructures manufacturer Spirit AeroSystems has acquired US composites MRO provider Applied Aerodynamics.
New aircraft efficiency will rely less on propulsion, more on engineering: Boeing CEO
Boeing chief executive David Calhoun believes that the next generation of aircraft will distinguish themselves by the way they are engineered and constructed, rather than through increasingly efficient engines alone.
Avelo launches operations with flight from Burbank to Santa Rosa
Avelo Airlines, a new US startup passenger carrier, has completed its inaugural flight from Burbank, in the Los Angeles suburbs, to Santa Rosa, north of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Boeing aims to evenly split narrowbody aircraft market share
Boeing aspires to split the narrowbody aircraft market evenly with Airbus after losing ground to the European airframer as a result of the nearly two-year grounding of its 737 Max.
Boeing delivers nine 787s after five-month pause
Boeing has delivered nine of its widebody 787 Dreamliners following a five-month break due to quality issues.
Boeing pauses deliveries of 737 Max while awaiting electrical fix
Boeing has paused deliveries of its 737 Max narrowbody as it works on a fix for the electrical issues that forced airlines to temporarily pull some of their aircraft from service.
Boeing calls on US government to normalise trade relationship with China
Boeing is calling on the administration of president Joe Biden to reinstate trade relations with China, saying aircraft orders from that country will be key to the airframer’s long-term health.
Boeing trims loss to $561m in first quarter as deliveries accelerate
Boeing narrowed its first-quarter loss to $561 million, a massive improvement on the $8.4 billion loss it registered in the fourth quarter of last year, and better than the $641 million loss in the same period of 2020.
Hawaiian Airlines Q1 loss narrows as US mainland passengers return
Hawaiian Airlines says it saw a marked increase in passengers from the US mainland, which helped stem the carrier’s losses for the first quarter of the year.
P&W keeps profitable in Q1, engine deliveries inch higher
Engine maker Pratt & Whitney squeaked out a $20 million operating profit in the first quarter of 2021, a period during which its deliveries of large commercial aircraft engines bumped higher.
Magnix and Boom CEOs ask lawmakers to support electric aviation, sustainable fuel
The chief executive of propulsion company Magnix has urged the US government to set ambitious electric-aircraft goals, while the head of Boom Supersonic has asked the government to throw weight behind sustainable fuel.
First flight of Boom’s XB-1 demonstrator could happen next year: CEO
The chief executive of Boom Supersonic has left open the possibility that the company’s supersonic demonstrator may not get airborne until next year.
US Special Ops buys AeroVironment’s anti-armour Switchblade 600 loitering munition
US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has awarded AeroVironment a $26.1 million contract to purchase the company’s Switchblade 600, a loitering munition effective against light armour.
JetBlue narrows loss as customers book further ahead
JetBlue Airways has seen “meaningful progress” to a sustainable rebound in the past weeks, as passengers begin to return in greater numbers and to plan further ahead.
GE Aviation lost 1,900 Leap orders in 12 months
GE Aviation lost orders for about 1,900 Leap-1B turbofans in the last year, a period influenced both by the Boeing 737 Max grounding and the pandemic.
All USAF B-1B bombers grounded for fuel pump issue, as fleet shows its age
The US Air Force grounded all of its Boeing B-1B Lancer bombers on 20 April after a fuel pump issue was discovered.
NASA envisions revived US regional air transportation network
The USA’s many small, underused airports, combined with autonomous and electric-propulsion technologies, could enable a vast new US regional air transportation system.
Kaman’s autonomous K-Max Titan helicopter makes first flight
Kaman’s unmanned K-Max Titan helicopter flew for the first time on 21 April.
Guangzhou displaces Atlanta as Chinese airports dominate latest ranking
Guangzhou Baiyun displaced Atlanta Hartsfield as the world’s busiest airport in 2020, as Chinese facilities shot up the global ranking to dominate the top 10, according to preliminary data released by ACI World in late April.
Second F-15EX test aircraft arrives at Eglin AFB
The US Air Force’s second Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter arrived at Eglin AFB in Florida on 20 April, ahead of the service launching operational test and evaluation work on the new model.
Reservation system outage hits startup Avelo Airlines
US low-cost start-up Avelo Airlines is one of 20 carriers affected by a reservations system outage, leaving the airline unable to sell tickets one week before it plans to begin operations.
Saab readies West Lafayette site for T-7A trainer work
Saab’s new West Lafayette production site in the USA has been completed, as it prepares to set up aft fuselage manufacturing work for the T-7A advanced jet trainer developed with prime contractor Boeing.
Fatal Alaskan mid-air collision illustrates see-and-avoid inadequacy: inquiry
US investigators have found that two sightseeing aircraft were effectively invisible to their pilots before they fatally collided over an Alaskan lake, highlighting the inadequacy of conventional see-and-avoid strategies.
US lawmakers slam F-35 programme for sustainment problems
US lawmakers unloaded anger against Lockheed Martin, Pratt & Whitney and the Department of Defense (DoD) during a 22 April hearing, criticising the group for not meeting F-35 stealth fighter programme sustainment goals.
Delta orders 25 A321neos, accelerates Airbus widebody deliveries
Delta Air Lines has firmed orders for 25 Airbus A321neos and pulled forward A350 and A330 deliveries, reflecting the airline’s anticipation that passenger demand will accelerate in coming years.
Universal Hydrogen lands $20.5m investment, Airbus and JetBlue arms contribute
Investment arms of Airbus and JetBlue Airways are among companies that have invested a combined $20.5 million in Universal Hydrogen, the Paul Eremenko-backed firm developing a hydrogen-fuel distribution and storage system.
Southwest swings to Q1 profit, ‘the worst is behind us’
Southwest Airlines made a profit in the first quarter thanks to federal payroll support payments, but says passenger demand remains “inconsistent by region” as the airline shuffles its fleet to meet fluctuating demand.
Bill to reduce disease transmission on jets targets airworthiness standards
US lawmakers have proposed a union-backed bill that seeks to prevent the spread of disease within the commercial aviation sector, including by changing aircraft certification requirements.
American sees aviation rebound 'accelerating'
American Airlines sees the pace of the aviation industry rebound “accelerating” as shifts in customer travel behaviour have forced the carrier to be exceedingly flexible when planning its fleet.
Alaska stems losses in Q1, buoyed by US government funds
Alaska Air Group lost $131 million in the first quarter of 2021, a significant improvement from the previous quarter thanks largely to pandemic-related US government aid.
Why Boeing's test pilot Heather Ross has the job of dreams
Heather Ross has a job that many aviators around the world would dream of. She is a test pilot at Boeing, currently working on the Chicago-based airframer’s newest project, the 777X.
C208 suffered excursion after unstable approach and long landing
Investigators have found that a Cessna C208B operating a cargo flight conducted an unstable approach before landing long and hard, and suffering a runway excursion in the British Virgin Islands.
Business aviation programmes all set for post-pandemic recovery
The pandemic has buffeted private aviation more lightly than its commercial cousin – some areas have done surprisingly well. But Covid-19 continues to have an impact, with activity and sales down.
US Air Force starts MQ-9 Reaper upgrades to keep UAV relevant against sophisticated foes
The US Air Force (USAF) has started upgrades to part of its General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-9 Reaper fleet to keep the unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) effective against near-peer adversaries, such as China and Russia.
Spirit anticipates positive earnings in 2021
Spirit Airlines is optimistic that it will be one of the first carriers to pull out of the coronavirus-driven industry crisis as leisure travellers begin to return and book vacations in greater numbers.
Aviation leaders ask for mask mandate extension, reopening to tourists
Aviation leaders have asked the US government to extend a national mask mandate aboard aircraft and in airports, and to develop a robust plan to reopen the country to foreign visitors.
Canada proposes C$2 billion in aerospace aid
Canada’s federal government has proposed providing the aerospace industry with C$2 billion ($1.6 billion) in aid over multiple years to help the sector recover from the pandemic downturn.
Airline recovery hopes blighted by slow recovery despite bright pockets
It says something about the depth of the airline industry’s troubles that even an extra $9 billion in losses this year would leave the industry significant healthier than in 2020.
JetBlue and American unveil next stage of ‘Northeast Alliance’
American Airlines and JetBlue Airways are again expanding their networks from Boston and New York’s John F Kennedy International airport as part of their so-called Northeast Alliance.
American recalls pilots, will hire up to 900 more by end-2022
American Airlines is recalling all of its pilots ahead of what the carrier anticipates will be a busy summer travel season.
US DOT’s inspector general begins third review of FAA’s Max oversight
The US Department of Transportation’s top inspector has commenced a third investigation into the Federal Aviation Administration’s oversight of the Boeing 737 Max, this time examining the FAA’s grounding and re-certification of the jetliner.
Honeywell pushes development of alternatives to GPS
To deal with disruptions to GPS, sometimes caused by malicious jamming or spoofing, Honeywell is developing several alternative navigation technologies for military aircraft.
Boeing shareholders grant board chair Kellner another term
Boeing’s shareholders re-elected ten company board members, including chair Lawrence Kellner, to another term on 20 April, while rejecting a proposal to require the company disclose more lobbying details.
Boeing plans to transfer Paine Field Dreamlifter center to FedEx: report
Boeing declines to comment about a recent report that the company has nearly finalised a deal to transfer the lease its Dreamlifter cargo facility at Paine Field in Everett to air cargo giant FedEx.
United to return 737 Max and 777s to schedule
United Airlines anticipates returning two Boeing aircraft types to its schedule after dealing with separate safety issues that grounded both this year.
Boeing CFO Smith to retire, Boeing board ups retirement age for CEO Calhoun
Longtime Boeing chief financial officer Greg Smith, an executive who some observers had suspected might be the company’s next chief executive, will retire from the airframer, effective 9 July.
Saab ships first aft fuselage for Boeing’s T-7A jet trainer
Saab has shipped its first aft fuselage section for an engineering and manufacturing development-phase example of the US Air Force’s Boeing T-7A Red Hawk advanced jet trainer.
Swiss company H55 to provide batteries for Harbour Air’s electric Beaver
Swiss battery company H55 has joined Harbour Air and Magnix in an effort to develop and certificate an all-electric De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver seaplane.
Tactical drone, powered by solar panels and hydrogen fuel cell, flies 24h
The US Naval Research Laboratory flew a Hybrid Tiger unmanned air vehicle (UAV) for more than 24h in November 2020, its longest flight demonstrated.
United loses $1.4bn in Q1, sees path to profitability
United Airlines lost $1.4 billion in the first quarter but sees a path to profitability as customers return to air travel in greater numbers.
Small rotorcraft ‘Ingenuity’ flies on Mars
NASA has flown a small rotorcraft on Mars, the first powered controlled flight of an aircraft on another planet.
FAA subjects all US 787s to decompression panel inspections
The US Federal Aviation Administration is expanding to all US-registered Boeing 787s an airworthiness directive (AD) related to potential failure of decompression panels.
United adds flights to Croatia, Greece and Iceland
United Airlines has added three new international routes for the summer travel season, as it banks on vacationers travelling abroad as soon as they are vaccinated and travel restrictions are lifted.
UK regulator clears path for JetBlue transatlantic debut
UK regulators have cleared JetBlue Airways to launch flights to London from New York and Boston, a further step in the carrier’s plans to begin transatlantic services this year.
David Neeleman ready for his fifth act with Breeze Airways
After launching four successful airlines in 30 years, serial entrepreneur David Neeleman’s latest project sees him targeting underserved US cities with Breeze Airways
Boeing delivered 89 737 Max since December, airlines place them in storage
Boeing has delivered almost 90 737 Max since US regulators lifted the type’s grounding last November, though airlines have placed those jet in storage, according to Cirium fleets data.
FAA proposal targets risk of GEnx ‘uncommanded’ thrust
The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed that airlines take steps to address the risk that GE Aviation GEnx turbofans might experience uncommanded increase in thrust.
US regional carrier ExpressJet plans comeback
ExpressJet, a US regional carrier which ceased operations in September, has requested to resume scheduled service under its own brand.
First 777-300ER for freighter conversion joins Israeli commemorative flypast
Israel Aerospace Industries has flown a Boeing 777-300ER set for freighter conversion in a formation to mark the anniversary of Israeli independence.
Discussion of restriction-free air travel is cause for optimism
It made sense for Willie Walsh to use his first briefing as IATA director general to insist that Covid-related health measures – such as pre-flight testing and vaccination certificates – should only be in place for as long as is necessary.
Xwing conducts first fully autonomous gate-to-gate cargo flight
Autonomous aircraft company Xwing says its Cessna Grand Caravan 208B has completed its first “fully autonomous gate-to-gate demonstration of a commercial cargo aircraft”.
US Air Force HH-60W combat rescue helicopter finishes developmental tests
The US Air Force’s Sikorsky HH-60W Jolly Green II combat rescue helicopter finished its developmental test programme on 13 April.
Commercial aircraft delivery funds tumbled 40% in 2020
Airlines, lessors and other financiers laid out $59 billion for the purchase of new commercial aircraft in 2020 – a full 40% less funding than was available in 2019.
Delta loses $1.2bn in Q1, aims for profitable Q3
Delta Air Lines aims to return to profitability in the third quarter as domestic travel ramps up following the year-long coronavirus downturn.
Blocked middle seats cut coronavirus transmission risk: US government report
Blocking middle seats on commercial jets does help reduce the spread of coronavirus.
Airline Business Index puts industry at 0.59 of pre-Covid size
The first Airline Business Index put the airline industry at 0.59 of its pre-pandemic size at the end of 2020 – with 1 being the size at end-2019 – amid the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
What future does the A380 have in a post-pandemic travel world?
Already a luxury of debatable value to many operators before the crisis, the A380 appears even less well-suited to a market featuring depressed travel demand and a focus on cargo
GA Telesis orders more 737-800 converted freighters
Commercial aviation industry services specialist GA Telesis is ordering another four Boeing 737-800SF converted freighters, the modified airframe developed by Aeronautical Engineers.
American plans to fly 90% of domestic capacity during the summer
American Airlines says that it plans to fly 90% of its normal domestic seat capacity and 80% of its international capacity during the summer season as customers begin to return to air travel in greater numbers after the beginning of the coronavirus health crisis.
US Air Force claims longest air-to-air missile shot with AIM-120 AMRAAM
The US Air Force claims that it achieved the longest known air-to-air missile shot in March 2021.
Boeing continues to ride the ups and downs of 737 Max return
Southwest’s follow-on commitment for 100 Max 7 aircraft and Ryanair’s imminent start of services with a higher density version of the Max 8 are further positives for Boeing’s flagship programme after the restart of commercial flights last December, but further order cancellations and the back-up power control issuing impacting some of the fleet show challenges remain
WestJet extends flight suspensions to sun destinations
WestJet has extended its temporary suspension of flights to southern destinations until 4 June as the Canadian air travel industry continues struggling with the coronavirus crisis.
Boeing loses 800 firm orders in first year of pandemic
Boeing’s total aircraft orders tumbled by roughly 800 jets in the last 12 months, bringing an abrupt end to the company’s remarkable sales successes in the preceding decade.
British Airways chief says UK travel-restart framework ‘lacks ambition’
The UK government’s proposed framework to reopen international travel markets has its merits but fails to properly take into account the improving health situation, according to British Airways chief executive Sean Doyle.
Boeing delivers only two KC-46A tankers in Q1 2021
Despite orders for dozens more KC-46A Pegasus in-flight refuelling tankers in recent months, Boeing only delivered two examples of the aircraft in the first quarter of 2021.
Air Canada begins to offer refunds for non-refundable fares
Air Canada says it will begin to offer refunds to customers whose flights were cancelled or who did not use their non-refundable tickets due to the coronavirus crisis that has been dragging on for more than a year.
Boeing nets 40 new aircraft orders in March despite more Max cancellations
Boeing marked a second straight month of positive order activity in March, with orders for new jets offsetting an ongoing stream of 737 Max cancellations.
United launches ‘sustainable’ fuel investment scheme
United Airlines has launched “Eco-Skies Alliance”, a programme through which it will allow customers and corporate partners to invest in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
Canada takes equity stake in Air Canada in C$5.9bn bailout deal
The government of Canada will take an equity stake in legacy carrier Air Canada after the company struck a deal for financial support as the coronavirus crisis continues to tear into the airline’s business.
US Navy tests radar-guided missile decoy on P-8A Poseidon
The US Navy has successfully completed an airworthiness test of a radio frequency countermeasure pod prototype on a Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
Porter again delays restart, to 21 June
Canada’s Porter Airlines has once again delayed its restart for another month as travel restrictions in that country continue to disrupt the industry.
Andrew Levy’s low-cost Avelo Airlines hits the ground running
Avelo Airlines, industry veteran Andrew Levy’s new carrier, made a splash last week when it landed in the US low-cost-carrier pool, offering $19 fares and flights from the Los Angeles area to nearly a dozen cities in the western third of the country.
A320 close call at San Francisco highlighted NOTAM overload: ICAO forum
Overflight of a heavily-occupied taxiway by an Airbus A320 at San Francisco served as an illustration of the serious risks of overloading pilots with NOTAMs, an ICAO forum has heard, as the organisation initiates efforts to reduce unnecessary NOTAM information.
Missing 777 rivet heads prompt FAA call for inspections
The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed that airlines be required to address a Boeing 777 rivet issue that raises concerns about potential pressure loss.
US carriers remove some 737 Max from service due to ‘power control unit’ issue
American, Southwest and United have pulled some of their Boeing 737 Max jets from revenue service due to an issue related to the type’s “back-up power control unit”.
Slip in Airbus order total illustrates 12-month impact of crisis
Analysis of Airbus backlog data over the year since the onset of the air transport crisis shows the airframer’s overall orders fell during the period, an extraordinary contrast to its strong annual performances over the previous decade.
Boeing urges 737 Max electric fix prior to further flight
Boeing is urging 16 operators of 737 Max jets to address an electrical system concern before further operating the aircraft.
Southwest recalls all flight attendants
Southwest Airlines has recalled all of the flight attendants who had taken long-term voluntary leave as the airline prepares for a domestic recovery which is progressing faster than expected.
ALPA calls on US government to help boost pilot diversity
Pilot union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) has called on the US government to help diversify the pilot ranks by making it easier for under-represented groups such as women and minorities to have access flight training.
Cheap jet lease rates mean opportunity for bold US start-ups
The Covid-19 era has also created opportunity by deflating aircraft lease rates to levels at which new players can acquire jets at fire-sale prices, say aerospace analysts.
New carrier Connect Airlines to launch US-Canada flights in October
A new regional carrier called Connect Airlines plans to begin passenger flights in October between the USA and Toronto’s Billy Bishop City airport.
How Jude Bricker transformed Sun Country on journey to IPO
In four short years, former Allegiant president Jude Bricker has taken the Midwest niche carrier from near-death to a stock market IPO, aided by a well-timed venture into cargo markets with Amazon
US start-up Avelo Airlines launches ticket sales
A new US passenger carrier start-up called Avelo Airlines is now selling tickets and plans to start revenue flights on 28 April.
Wider economic recovery drives up jet-fuel costs for ailing airlines
Rising jet-fuel prices will make it harder for airlines to reach cash-positive positions in the coming months, according to industry body IATA.
F-15EX ‘Eagle II’ ready for test and evaluation phase
The US Air Force has formally named its F-15EX fighter the “Eagle II”, as it prepares to launch test and evaluation work on the new platform at Eglin AFB in Florida.
Hypersonic ARRW test failure a setback, USAF says
A launch sequence problem resulted in the failure of a planned first test firing of a Lockheed Martin-built hypersonic missile, the US Air Force (USAF) says.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: April 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, 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.
Canada’s PAL Airlines to expand to 11 cities this summer
Canadian regional carrier PAL Airlines will expand its network this summer to include 11 new destinations in eastern Canada.
President Biden talks of supersonic travel within 10 years
President Joe Biden has raised the prospect that supersonic civil aircraft might be crossing the world’s skies within the next 10 years.
NTSB again calls for cockpit video recorders
The US National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) long-running quest to have video cameras installed in aircraft cockpits continues, with the agency again recommending that regulators require the recorders.
New IATA chief insists all Covid-related travel measures should be temporary
New IATA director general Willie Walsh has called for all restrictions and constraints on international air travel to be removed as quickly as possible, as the trade body’s latest traffic data showed the continued catastrophic impact of the Covid-19 crisis on the airline industry.
UPS takes options to purchase 150 eVTOLs from Vermont manufacturer Beta
Express package delivery company UPS has acquired options to buy up to 150 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Vermont-based developer Beta Technologies, with deliveries planned to start in 2024.
HAECO's Vector Light seats get FAA certification; Q4 delivery targeted
HAECO Americas’ interiors unit, HAECO Cabin Solutions, has clinched the US Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) certification for its Vector Light narrowbody seat.
FAA requires inspections of PW4000 low-pressure turbines
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring airlines to inspect and replace “air sealing ring” assemblies within Pratt & Whitney PW4000 low-pressure turbine [LPT] cases.
Wisk Aero sues Archer, alleging stolen eVTOL trade secrets
Urban air mobility developer Wisk Aero has sued competitor Archer Aviation in US federal court, alleging that Archer stole trade secrets, infringed on patents and copied Wisk’s aircraft design.
Allegiant to open crew base in Austin
Allegiant Air will invest $75 million in opening a base in Austin, Texas as it explores more ways to benefit from the rebound in leisure travel following the year-long coronavirus crisis.
Unmanned Valkyrie releases Altius-600 drone in sixth test flight
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions’ XQ-58A Valkyrie performed its sixth flight late last month, culminating with the “loyal wingman” releasing an air-launched effect vehicle from its internal weapons bay for the first time.
United will train 5,000 pilots by 2030, half to be women or minorities
United Airlines says that it will train 5,000 new pilots in the next ten years through its “Aviate” pilot recruiting programme, with at least half of those to be women and people of colour.
How do you design and build throw-away aircraft?
The US Air Force wants UAVs that it can afford to lose – but that presents industry with numerous challenges to overcome.
FAA orders US carriers to inspect Embraer ERJ landing gears
The US Federal Aviation Administration has followed Brazil’s lead in requiring US carriers to address a landing gear issue affecting more than 300 US-registered Embraer 135 and ERJ145 regional jets.
Delta cancels more than 100 flights due to staff shortage
Delta Air Lines has cancelled more than 100 flights over the busy Easter holiday weekend due to staffing issues.
Major US airlines’ booking websites apparently crash
Several major US airlines appear to be experiencing technical problems that are preventing customers from booking flights on their websites.
US domestic air travel to normalise by 2022: report
A new report by consulting firm Oliver Wyman says that US domestic air travel is expected to make a full recovery by early next year.
Pilots back global campaign to cut excessive NOTAM burden
Cockpit crew representatives are backing efforts to overhaul of the NOTAM system this year, claiming that the repository of aeronautical information has become cluttered, inefficient and burdensome.
Industry welcomes new CDC guidance on vaccinated travellers
The US travel industry has welcomed a new public health determination that fully vaccinated people may travel domestically without required Covid-19 testing or mandatory quarantines.
Norse Atlantic fires back against US lawmakers, alleging ‘false’ claims
Start-up airline Norse Atlantic Airways has blasted US lawmakers for making “false” claims about its labour practices, insisting it will conform to US air transport treaties.
Spirit accuses JetBlue and American of coordinating beyond their alliance
Spirit Airlines is accusing JetBlue Airways and American Airlines of coordinating flights and routes outside of the scope of their new Northeast alliance.
FAA to require airlines replace fuel system units on 737 Max
The US Federal Aviation Administration has proposed requiring airlines to replace fuel system processors on Boeing 737 Max jets, citing problems with fuel shut-off systems.
US opposition builds to Norse Atlantic’s planned transatlantic flights
Top US lawmakers are gearing up to battle a potential application by start-up Norse Atlantic Airways to begin transatlantic flights to the USA.
Air Canada and Transat call off merger
The European Commission (EC) has put the brakes on Air Canada’s planned acquisition of Transat AT, the parent of Air Transat, leading the companies to call off the deal completely.
US Navy and Royal Australian Air Force order 11 Boeing P-8A Poseidons
The US Navy and Royal Australian Air Force have ordered 11 more examples of the Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft for $1.6 billion.
United to resume hiring pilots, starting with 300 candidates
United Airlines plans to hire hundreds of pilots this year as the airline begins what it sees as a sustainable recovery after a coronavirus-plagued year.
WestJet lays off another 415 pilots
Canada’s WestJet has laid off another 415 pilots as the coronavirus crisis continues to tear through that country’s aviation sector.
Frontier shares begin trading on Nasdaq
Frontier Airlines’ stock began trading at $19 per share on the Nasdaq exchange on 1 April, raising $266 million in net proceeds for the Denver-based airline.
Airbus A330 MRTT cleared to pursue Canadian tanker deal
Canada has notified Airbus Defence & Space that its A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) has been qualified to bid in a process to replace its air force fleet of A310s. A rival offer of the Boeing KC-46 Pegasus was rejected by Ottawa.
Anduril acquires air-launched effects maker Area-I
Anduril Industries, a venture-capital backed start-up, has acquired another start-up, air-launched effects maker Area-I.
Willie Walsh takes over as IATA chief
Describing his passion for the airline industry, Walsh notes that IATA’s work has never been more “critical… than during the Covid-19 crisis”.
FAA certificates Boeing 737 Max 8-200 variant
The Federal Aviation Administration has certificated the Boeing 737 Max 8-200 – a specially-configured high-density variant of the 737 Max 8 destined for low-cost carrier Ryanair.
Bird strike blamed for fatal crash of Royal Canadian Air Force ‘Snowbird 11’ aircraft
The Royal Canadian Air Force’s Directorate of Flight Safety has concluded that the ingestion of a small bird into a Canadair CT-114 Tutor jet’s engine caused the aircraft to crash in May 2020.
Alaska Airlines joins Oneworld alliance
Alaska Airlines officially became the 14th member of the Oneworld aviation alliance on 31 March.
US airports would receive $25bn under Biden infrastructure plan
US airports would receive $25 billion in funding under the infrastructure investment plan rolled out by President Joe Biden on 31 March.
Delta to stop blocking middle seats in May
Delta Air Lines, the last US carrier to continue blocking middle seats amid the pandemic, will rescind that policy in the coming weeks.
Aviation industry calls for collaboration on ’vaccine passports’, concerns remain
The aviation sector is calling for close collaboration in development of so-called “vaccine passports”, hoping such documents could promote re-opening of international travel following the yearlong coronavirus crisis.
Cape Air orders another 10 Tecnam P2012s
US commuter airline Cape Air has firmed orders for 10 additional Tecnam P2012 Travellers, part of its ongoing plan to replace Cessna 402Cs with the new Italian aircraft.
FAA to require A220 wing-to-body fairing inspections
US regulators are following Canada’s lead by proposing that Airbus A220 operators be required to inspect the type for potential cracks in wing-to-body fairing components.
US airlines commit to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050
US airlines have committed to spearhead initiatives in order to help the industry get to net-zero carbon emissions by the middle of this century.
Boeing finalises sale of 23 737 Max to Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines has firmed an order for 23 Boeing 737 Max 9s, securing the jets after having in December announced an intention to acquire them.
US Army aims to speed up FLRAA’s major subsystem and weapons development
The US Army has granted Bell and a Sikorsky-Boeing team contracts to speed up the time it ought to take to complete preliminary design reviews for major subsystems and conceptual weapon systems on their Future Long Range Assault Aircraft proposals.
Gulfstream vows commitment to G280, countering ‘rumours’ that production could end soon
Gulfstream is seeking to reassure the business-aircraft sector that its commitment to the G280 super-midsize business jet remains unflinching, despite “rumours” of the contrary.
American to reactivate ‘most’ aircraft in Q2 amid rising demand
American Airlines will operate the majority of its fleet in the second quarter, in response to stronger-than-anticipated demand for domestic and short-haul air travel.
Sikorsky tests UH-60 Black Hawk flying autonomously under pilot supervision
Sikorsky and DARPA recently conducted an autonomous flight of a UH-60 Black Hawk under on-board piloted supervision.
United expands flights to Latin America in May
United Airlines says that during the month of May it will exceed its pre-pandemic schedule to Latin America, 15 months after cutting service to the region as passenger demand plummeted amid the first wave of the coronavirus.
Wisk to begin eVTOL programme in New Zealand this year
Urban air mobility developer Wisk will later this year kick off a trial programme in New Zealand that is eventually intended to involve passenger flights on the company’s autonomous electric aircraft, Cora.
Sikorsky to integrate, qualify new GE turboshafts on UH-60M Black Hawks in FY2022
The US Army plans to grant Sikorsky a sole-source contract to integrate and qualify the Improved Turbine Engine on its UH-60M Black Hawk utility helicopter, with work starting in fiscal year 2022.
Southwest orders 100 737 Max 7s, takes 155 options
Southwest Airlines has ordered 100 Boeing 737 Max 7s, a deal that cements the manufacturer as Southwest’s long-term aircraft partner and throws enormous support behind the Max programme.
From record profits to Covid-19 devastation, de Juniac saw it all as IATA chief
In 2016, Alexandre de Juniac brought his French government and airline industry experience to a role that required diplomacy and a steady hand on the tiller. From 2020 onwards, unprecedented crisis-management skills were the order of the day.
Navy contract helps MQ-4C escape production pause
The Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton unmanned air system has avoided a production freeze owing to a US Navy (USN) contract for one example.
JetBlue appears to secure Heathrow slots from 2 August
JetBlue Airways appears to have secured 270 slots at London’s Heathrow airport for the summer travel season, as it launches low-cost transatlantic narrowbody service from the US East Coast.
F-35B completes sea trials on Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour
The F-35 Joint Program Office has delivered a flight clearance recommendation to the Italian navy for the safe operation of the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II on the aircraft carrier ITS Cavour.
FAA to stop requiring repeated PW1500G compressor inspections
Airlines may no longer need to repeatedly inspect low-pressure compressor (LPC) rotors in Pratt & Whitney PW1500G turbofans, which power Airbus A220s.
Boeing 787 deliveries restart after five-month pause
After a five-month hiatus, Boeing has resumed 787 deliveries, handing a 787-9 to United Airlines on 26 March.
Bell opens advanced manufacturing centre aimed at winning US Army’s Future Vertical Lift
Bell believes new digital engineering and manufacturing technologies will allow it to cut the cost and lead times on rotorcraft parts by double-digit percentages. It also thinks those bold claims are likely to attract doubts.
Supply chain competition to heat up as China develops domestic aerospace industry
China is undergoing an aerospace evolution, developing a homegrown industry anchored by Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac) and supported by a strengthening domestic supply chain.
United to add 26 domestic routes, increase international flying
United Airlines is adding more domestic point-to-point routes and upping its international flying as US travellers continue to book flights in greater numbers following the year-long global health crisis.
Airports body predicts travel surge but warns of $94bn revenue loss in 2021
Airports industry body ACI World expects a “surge” in travel demand during the second half of 2021, but that global passenger numbers will still be down some 47.5% for the full year compared with pre-Covid levels.
American prepays CARES Act loan with $10bn financing proceeds
American Airlines has closed a previously announced $10 billion financing backed by its customer loyalty programme and used a portion of the proceeds to prepay its CARES Act loan to the US Treasury.
ALPA sets out policy priorities in white paper
US pilot union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) is calling on the industry to revisit numerous labour, safety, subsidy and collective bargaining issues that for the past year have taken a back seat to the coronavirus pandemic.
Bell sees V-280 and V-247 having ‘synergy’ with US Navy FVL Maritime Strike
Bell believes its work on the V-280 Valor tiltrotor for the US Army and the unmanned V-247 Vigilant tiltrotor concept for the US Marine Corps ought to have “synergy” with the US Navy’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) Maritime Strike programme.
Bell sees its APT cargo UAV as being attritable in combat
Bell believes it will be able to design and build its Autonomous Pod Transport cheap enough for the unmanned air vehicle to be considered attritable.
FAA to require inspections of Leap-1A high-pressure turbine cases
The Federal Aviation Administration is set to require inspections of high-pressure turbines (HPTs) in some CFM International Leap-1A turbofans, which power Airbus A320neo-family jets.
WestJet hopes to restore full Canadian network by late June
WestJet intends to restore flights to several cities in eastern Canada in late June, a move meaning the company would again be flying to all the cities in Canada that it served before the pandemic.
JetBlue explores possible E190 sale-and-leasebacks
JetBlue Airways has been looking at potentially selling and leasing back 30 owned Embraer 190s as it seeks to transition the aircraft out of its fleet in favour of the Airbus A220, Cirium understands.
USA has 70 efforts to develop hypersonic technologies, totalling nearly $15bn: GAO
The USA has funded 70 efforts to develop hypersonic missiles, and related technologies, between fiscal years 2015 and 2024.
Can supersonic hopefuls deliver as commercial interest booms?
The handful of companies in the space spent the last year partnering with major aerospace suppliers (including engine makers), lining up buyers, hiring known aerospace executives and, in the case of Boom Supersonic, rolling out a demonstrator jet.
NTSB urges tighter oversight of some passenger-carrying general aviation flights
Following several deadly accidents in recent years, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is urging the Federal Aviation Administration to tighten oversight of certain passenger flights conducted under general aviation rules.
NASA to fly Ingenuity helicopter on Mars within three weeks
NASA is planning for Ingenuity, its Mars helicopter, to fly within the next three weeks, engineers say on 23 March.
Airbus extracts more range from A220-300 with further weight increase
Airbus is to offer a further range increase on the A220-300 towards the middle of this year, with a 1t hike in the twinjet’s maximum take-off weight.
DARPA tests artificial intelligent dogfighting in two-versus-one simulations
DARPA’s Air Combat Evolution programme tested team dogfighting between artificial intelligence-controlled fighters in a software simulation in February.
Alaska Airlines names new chief operating officer
Constance von Muehlen has been named as Alaska Airlines’ new chief operating officer, effective 3 April.
Satcom radome vibrations prompt A220 ELT antenna checks
Airbus A220 operators are being instructed to check and replace emergency locator transmitter antennas, after incidents in which vortices from a communications radome generated vibrations resulting in antenna failure.
Boeing, USN kick off major EA-18G Growler upgrade
Boeing has kicked off a mission system upgrade for the US Navy’s fleet of EA-18G Growler electronic warfare jets.
US Navy looks at manned-unmanned teaming role for E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
The US Navy is planning to award Northrop Grumman a sole-source contract to modify the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye’s mission computer and display software so that the early warning aircraft could control unmanned air vehicles.
Former SpaceX engineers propose two-stage eVTOL for regional, military use
Two former SpaceX engineers are proposing a two-stage electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for regional cargo and passenger flight, as well as for US military missions.
Sun Country stock debuts with $1.84 billion valuation
Sun Country Airlines began trading on 17 March under the ticker “SNCY” on Nasdaq priced at $33 per share, higher than its original expectation of $21 to $23 per share, giving the low-cost carrier a market value of $1.84 billion.
UK to buy Switchblade loitering munition
The UK plans to buy the AeroVironment Switchblade loitering munition, in what appears to be the first purchase of the US-made weapon by a foreign country.
Spike NLOS validated for AH-64 after 17.3nm target hit
The US Army has validated the Rafael Spike non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missile as an interim long-range weapon for its Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopter.
IATA aims for in-person AGM with postponement to October
IATA’s annual general meeting has been postponed to 3-5 October 2021, as the airline industry association seeks to ensure an in-person event happens this year amid a hoped-for recovery from the worst effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Airline leaders optimistic on return of transatlantic market in summer
Several airline leaders have expressed optimism that the transatlantic market so crucial to the financial fortunes of many European and US network carriers will begin to open up in the coming summer season.
US DOT slams Hong Kong air crew quarantine rules
The US Department of Transport (DOT) has criticised the Hong Kong government’s quarantine requirements for air crew as “disproportionally” impacting US carriers “to the benefit of Hong Kong carriers”.
What’s the strategic logic behind ‘surprise’ bomber flights?
US Air Force (USAF) bombers are touching down in new places. In February, for the first time in history, the Boeing B-1B Lancer bomber landed in India. Then, in March, the supersonic jet deployed for the first time from a Norwegian air base. Just this week the variable-sweep bomber landed in Poland for the first time ever.
Lockheed Martin kicks off USAF F-16 sustainment contract with receipt of first jet
Lockheed Martin received its first F-16 fighter in Greenville, South Carolina as part of a 10-year sustainment contract with the US Air Force.
Airbus pits TwoTwenty against business jets like Global 7500 and G700
Five months after launching its ACJ TwoTwenty executive jet, Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) is talking up the performance of its modified A220-100, pitching the type as competitive in two segments of the business aircraft market.
US Air Force looks at ‘cognitive electronic warfare’ for F-15
The US Air Force is researching adding “cognitive electronic warfare” capabilities to the Boeing F-15 fighter.
US airlines giddy about recovery
US airline executives are finding it difficult to contain their excitement as the industry hovers on the verge of a sharp rebound in travel demand with customers beginning to plan forward travel in numbers that air transport has not seen for more than a year.
Southwest sees break-even by June
Southwest Airlines hopes to break even by mid-2021 as air travellers return in greater numbers.
New airline plans Norwegian-style transatlantic flights with 787s
A new airline backed by the founder of Norwegian is seeking to launch transatlantic flights with Boeing 787s later this year, as it aims to fill the long-haul low-cost gap left by the latter’s recent withdrawal from Europe-USA market.
American’s Parker says recovery imminent
American Airlines is optimistic that a sustainable post-coronavirus rebound has begun as customers start to return in greater numbers.
American deal on track despite JetBlue’s pilot tiff: CEO Hayes
JetBlue Airways remains able to implement a business partnership with American Airlines despite JetBlue’s pilots recently voting down new contract terms.
JetBlue reports surge in March leisure travel demand
JetBlue Airways has seen a substantial jump in air travel demand during March, with its daily revenue almost doubling – thought the airline has not reached cash-break-even levels.
Jazz pilots agree to Air Canada Express deal
Pilots at Canada’s Jazz Aviation have approved a deal that will allow the company to become the exclusive operator of Air Canada Express flights.
United’s Kirby predicts break-even cash flow this month
United Airlines is on track to stop burning through cash by the end of March, according the company’s chief executive, who struck a remarkably positive tone during a 15 March investor conference.
Ed Clark to succeed Odisho as head of Boeing 737 programme
Boeing has named Ed Clark, a top executive in Boeing’s aircraft services division, to succeed Walt Odisho as vice-president and general manager of the 737 programme.
Hawaiian to fly 90-95% of normal schedule by May
Hawaiian Airlines anticipates flying 90-95% of its normal schedule by May, as vaccine roll-out continues across the USA and as Americans begin to consider summer travel plans.
777 Partners orders 24 737 Max 8s
Miami private equity company 777 Partners has ordered 24 Boeing 737 Max 8s and taken options to buy a further 60 of the type, adding fresh momentum to the narrowbody’s backlog.
US regional airlines struggling to secure government pandemic-relief aid: RAA
The US regional airline sector is calling out the US government for months-long delays in the distribution of pandemic-relief funds to the country’s smaller airlines.
US Air Force accepts first Boeing F-15EX fighter
The choice to acquire the F-15EX is controversial as the fourth-generation fighter lacks the low radar cross-section of the service’s former favourite jet, the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter.
Air Transat suspends operations until June
Transat AT, the parent company of Canadian holiday specialist Air Transat, has effectively shut down revenue operations due to the coronavirus mitigation measures imposed by the Canadian government earlier this year.
Transat ponders ‘plan B’ should Europe reject Air Canada takeover
Transat AT, parent of Canadian holiday-focused airline Air Transat, is working on a “plan B” in case its planned acquisition by Air Canada falls through.
United Airlines chief warns of ‘dramatic’ impact of unchecked climate change
Human-influenced climate change is the “defining issue for our generation to solve”, in the view of United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby, who says his passion for the subject is behind the carrier’s attempt to become an industry leader on sustainability.
Retired B-1B to serve as USAF integration lab
A retired US Air Force Boeing B-1B bomber will serve as an integration laboratory at Edwards AFB in California.
US DOT says airline employment at highest level since April 2020
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) says airline industry employment in January rose to its highest level since April 2020, a tentative sign that demand for air travel may be returning following an almost year-long decline due to the coronavirus.
Northrop pitches UVision Hero loitering munition variant for US Army Future Vertical Lift
Northrop Grumman plans to pitch the US Army on an air-launched effect variant of the UVision Hero family of loitering munitions.
Southwest nears 737 Max 7 order: report
Boeing is closing in on the sale of 737 Max 7 jets to Southwest Airlines, a deal that, if closed, would prove a massive win by Boeing and reflect Southwest’s continued loyalty to the Chicago airframer, according to a report from Bloomberg.
President Biden to sign bill providing $14bn to airlines
Both houses of the US Congress have now passed a pandemic-relief bill that would make billions of dollars in aid available for the benefit of employees at US airlines.
Southwest set to return Boeing 737 Max to its fleet
Southwest Airlines, the world’s biggest operator of Boeing 737 aircraft, is set to return the 737 Max into its network and schedule, operating several revenue flights on the type for the first time in two years.
US DOT grants Breeze certificate to operate
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has given start-up low-cost airline Breeze Airways the green light to begin operations.
Business travel will come back: United Airlines chief
It is a mistake to believe that business travel demand will be fundamentally altered by the Covid-19 pandemic, even if its recovery will lag the return of leisure markets, according to United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby.
AerCap agrees acquisition of US lessor GECAS
Leasing giant AerCap has agreed to acquire US lessor GECAS, creating a leviathan with over 2,000 aircraft and more than 900 engines as well as 300 helicopters.
The Max crisis has already shifted how regulators certificate jets
The Boeing 737 Max crisis has already upended some aspects of aircraft certification, with regulators more closely reviewing certification projects and shying away from rubber stamping decisions made by foreign counterparts.
Why Boeing’s future still rests on the 737 Max’s recovery
The Max holds outsize importance for Boeing, both financially and competitively. Which is precisely why the grounding left the US aerospace behemoth in such a competitive pickle, and why the type’s rebound is key to Boeing’s recovery, aerospace analysts say.
How and why Boeing re-engined the 737 to create the Max
Circumstances preceding Boeing’s 2011 launch of the 737 Max programme share similarities with the situation the company now finds itself in.
Max crisis and pandemic wipe nearly 1,250 737s from Boeing’s backlog since January 2020
Since the start of 2020, cancellations and accounting adjustments pushed Boeing’s 737 Max backlog down by some 1,250 aircraft, erasing 28% of the 737 orders Boeing held in January 2020.
US Navy plans to buy 120 submarine-launched Blackwing UAVs
The US Navy plans to acquire up to 120 AeroVironment Blackwing unmanned air vehicles (UAV) for its submarines.
Boeing logs positive order tally for February despite 737 Max and 787 cancellations
Boeing landed orders for 82 new commercial aircraft and was hit by only 51 cancellations in February, marking the first month since November 2019 that the airframer’s net order total has been in positive territory.
NASA seeks to shrink turbofan cores for efficiency as it targets next narrowbody jets
NASA has launched a research effort aimed at squeezing 5-10% more fuel efficiency out of turbofan cores, with the goal of developing engine technology for future commercial aircraft, possibly including an eventual Boeing 737 replacement.
Recovery unsustainable without Travel Pass-style apps: IATA
Governments around the world are not moving quickly enough to plan for the reopening of international travel markets, in the view of IATA, particularly when it comes to the creation of digital standards for Covid-19 testing and vaccination records.
Spill spurs order to de-activate 777F potable water system
Operators of certain Boeing 777 freighters have been instructed to de-activate potable water systems on the aircraft, over the risk of water intrusion into the forward electronic equipment bay.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: March 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, 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.
Frontier seeks IPO after cancelled attempt in 2020
Frontier Airlines on 8 March filed for an initial public offering of stock with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, a year after cancelling its previous bid for a $100 million offering that it initiated in 2017.
US Air Force looks at air-to-air combat technologies for next-generation UAVs
The US Air Force is looking for air-to-air combat technologies for its family of next-generation unmanned air vehicles.
US Congress approves aviation payroll support extension
Both houses of the US Congress have passed the third comprehensive coronavirus relief package for the air transport industry, which would grant airlines $14 billion more in payroll support as the crisis drags on.
Honeywell developing 1MW turbo-generator for air-taxi segment
Honeywell later this year plans to demonstrate a new, more-powerful turbo-generator designed for use on air taxis, cargo drones and hybrid-electric commercial aircraft.
DARPA kicks off feasibility study of military jetpacks
The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is studying the technical feasibility of military jetpacks, and other personal flying platforms, potentially for use by US special forces.
FedEx invests $2bn in sustainable technologies
US cargo carrier FedEx is investing more than $2 billion as part of an effort to achieve carbon-neutral operations across its global network in 20 years.
US-EU strive to ‘reset’ relationship by suspending tariffs in Airbus-Boeing row
European Union regulators have agreed to a temporary suspension of tariffs in the long-running Airbus-Boeing dispute over civil aircraft subsidies, a four-month hiatus which will lift tariffs on aircraft and non-aircraft imports.
Bell 505 single-pilot operations restricted as inspection regime tightens
Canadian safety authorities have temporarily banned right-hand single-pilot operations of Bell 505 Jet Ranger X helicopters, after further investigations into the potential fracture of collective sticks on the type.
American Express Ventures invests in Boom Supersonic
The innovation-finance arm of American Express is the latest company to invest in Denver-based supersonic aircraft maker Boom Supersonic.
Second Avenger gets FAA Experimental Certificate as UAV plays growing payload-testing role
A second General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Avenger Extended Range (ER) unmanned air vehicle (UAV) has received an Experimental Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Bombardier turnaround plan leans on aftermarket expansion and demand for Global jets
Bombardier aims to achieve 20% profit margins by 2025 through a mix of cost cutting, corporate restructuring, improved productivity, aftermarket expansion and increased sales of high-profit business jets.
US government temporarily suspends UK tariffs in shift to resolve Airbus-Boeing spat
Signs have emerged of a shift in the effort to resolve the long-running transatlantic civil aircraft subsidies dispute, after the US and UK governments agreed to suspend tariffs for four months.
Spirit chief bets on A320neos and A321neos for capacity growth
Spirit Airlines continues to target mid-2021 as the inflection point when its capacity returns to pre-pandemic levels and is betting on new Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft for its expansion plans, two executives from the carrier said during an online discussion on 3 March.
SpaceX Starship lands upright, then explodes
SpaceX’s Starship Serial Number 10 (SN10) prototype rocket landed safely under its own power after a test flight that took it to an altitude of 33,000ft. Eight minutes later, it blew up.
Sky Regional to cease operations end-March: reports
Sky Regional airlines will cease to operate from 31 March after Air Canada transferred all of its Air Canada Express flying to Jazz Aviation, according to numerous reports in Canadian media.
NetJets takes purchase rights for 20 Aerion AS2 supersonics
Fractional aircraft ownership company NetJets has thrown its support behind Aerion’s AS2, acquiring rights to purchase 20 of the in-development business jets.
Airline cash-burn figures focus the mind
While the US majors have made significant progress on reducing their daily cash burn, the magnitude of the figures is till noteworthy
Mesa plans joint venture to fly CRJ900s in Europe
Mesa Air Group on 2 March announced a conditional agreement with London-based Gramercy Associates to launch a joint venture to operate Mesa’s Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft on passenger or cargo routes in Europe by the end of 2021.
Canadian airlines lost 23% of international market share: WestJet chief
Airlines in Canada during the coronavirus pandemic have lost 23% of their market share on international routes to competitors in Europe and the USA whose governments have provided sector-specific relief funds, WestJet chief executive Ed Sims said during an online discussion hosted by multinational aviation group Eurocontrol on 2 March.
Meggitt to begin supplying ‘cockpit indicators’ for 737 Max
British aerospace company Meggitt will soon begin supplying unspecified cockpit indicators for Boeing’s 737 Max, taking that work from another unnamed supplier for reasons the companies have not disclosed.
Breeze plans summer launch of flights and ‘super app’: Neeleman
Breeze Airways’ co-founder and chief executive David Neeleman expects his new Salt Lake City-based low-cost airline will be operating flights before this summer, in the process acclimating travellers to an app-centred customer experience.
FAA to begin testing drone detect-and-avoid systems this year.
Before the end of 2021, the Federal Aviation Administration will begin testing technologies aimed at preventing manned aircraft from colliding with drones.
Macquarie AirFinance orders four AEI 737-800 converted freighters
Aircraft conversion shop Aeronautical Engineers (AEI) has landed an order from lessor Macquarie AirFinance to convert four passenger-configured Boeing 737-800s into 737-800SF converted freighters.
Delta to shift all pilots to ‘active’ status by October
Delta Air Lines intends to return all its pilots to “active-flying status” by October, part of the carrier’s effort to prepare for returning to 2019 capacity by summer 2023.
Hypersonic boost-glide ARRW missile scheduled to fly this week
The US Air Force’s plans to flight test its boost-glide AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon this week for the first time.
Air Canada to shift E175s from Sky Regional to Jazz
Air Canada intends to transfer the operation of 25 Embraer 175s from Sky Regional to Jazz Aviation, making Jazz the sole operator of Air Canada Express flights and leaving the future of Sky Regional uncertain.
Canada’s Porter again pushes back restart date
Canada’s Porter Airlines has again delayed its restart, now saying it will resume operations on 19 May.
United orders 25 more 737 Max
United Airlines has ordered another 25 Boeing 737 Max and moved forward deliveries of 45 previously ordered Max, moves the company says will enable to it capitalise on increased demand following the pandemic.
Crew alarmed by speed decay before American 757 abruptly pitched down
Investigators probing an abrupt manoeuvre by an American Airlines Boeing 757-200 have indicated that the crew suddenly pitched the aircraft nose-down after realising the airspeed had unexpectedly bled away.
Golden Horde collaborative bombs hit four targets simultaneously in test
The Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL’s) Golden Horde collaborative munitions programme had its first successful demonstration last week.
United to pay $49.5 million to settle postal fraud case
United Airlines has agreed to pay more than $49 million to resolve criminal charges and civil claims relating to postal service fraud for transporting international mail.
Boeing 777-9 performing runway tests in Oklahoma
Boeing has sent one of its four 777-9 test jets to Clinton-Sherman airport in Oklahoma for a series of tests that will primarily examine the jet’s performance on the runway.
Texan aviation investment group MDI acquires three Austrian 767s
Lufthansa Group carrier Austrian Airlines has agreed to sell three of its Boeing 767-300ERs to a US company, Texas-based MonoCoque Diversified Interests.
Prior United 777 blade-out might give clues to UA328 engine structure loss
While US investigators disagree with the immediate impression that the recent United Airlines Boeing 777-200 engine incident was one of uncontained failure, the extent of the damage to the powerplant was nonetheless catastrophic.
Australian competition watchdog re-authorises American, Qantas joint venture
The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) will re-authorise the joint venture between Qantas Airways and American Airlines across the Pacific.
FAA fines Boeing $6.6 million to settle three cases involving ODA failures
The Federal Aviation Administration has fined Boeing $6.6 million in penalties to settle three enforcement cases, including those related to its Organisation Designation Authorization (ODA) programme.
USAF ponders Boeing E-3 Sentry replacement, some ask for Boeing E-7 Wedgetail
The US Air Force (USAF) is pondering replacing its Boeing E-3 Sentry airborne early warning and control aircraft and the commander of the Pacific Air Forces wants the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail.
USAF to flight test Skyborg autonomous system at Orange Flag this summer
The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) plans to flight test its Skyborg autonomous aircraft technology during Orange Flag exercises this summer for the first time.
De Havilland and PAL pitch special-mission ‘P-4’ Dash 8-400
De Havilland Canada and Canadian aircraft modification company PAL Aerospace intend to offer a special-mission variant of the Dash 8-400 turboprop to the Royal Malaysian Air Force.
Alaska burned $137 million in January amid steady recovery
Alaska Air Group forecasts that revenue for the first quarter will be slightly better than expected yet will still be down 55-60% year on year compared with the first quarter of 2020 before the coronavirus pandemic began.
DOT raises concern about FAA’s self-certification oversight
The US Department of Transportation’s top inspector has doubts that the Federal Aviation Administration, as currently structured, can identify risks within its Organisation Designation Authorization (ODA) programme.
Erickson pitches US Army on autonomous S-64F+ Air Crane
The company believes the S-64F+ could compliment the US military services’ fleet of Boeing CH-47 and Sikorsky CH-53 heavy lift helicopters by supporting training and logistics operations.
P&W to perform 777 PW4000 fan blade checks required by FAA
Pratt & Whitney will perform the PW4000 thermal acoustic imaging (TAI) inspections required under the Federal Aviation Administration’s recent emergency airworthiness directive (AD).
Business jet deliveries sink 20% in 2020
The Covid-19 pandemic definitely hit commercial aerospace harder than other aviation segments, though the fallout on private and business aviation was not insignificant.
Joby Aviation reveals plan to go public, showcases eVTOL in flight
Joby Aviation, a Silicon Valley-headquartered air taxi company, will merge with Reinvent Technology Partners with the eventual goal of taking the startup public as it shows off its five-seat aircraft in flight and introduces a new chief financial officer.
Spirit AeroSystems expects to lose money on A220 work for up to five years
Spirit AeroSystems expects to lose money on its Airbus A220 work for three to five years, until Airbus ramps the twin-jet’s production to at least 100 aircraft annually.
Airline industry might burn through $95bn in cash this year: IATA
The global airline industry might continue to burn cash into 2022 amid uncertainty over when governments will release travel restrictions, according to a range of scenarios presented by IATA.
Spirit AeroSystems performing 787 analysis and rework
Spirit AeroSystems is performing engineering analysis and “rework” on Boeing 787 components as part of Boeing’s broader effort to address 787 quality issues.
Ex-Flybe Q400 arrives at Conair base for firefighting modification
Canada’s Conair Group has received the first in a batch of former Flybe Bombardier Q400s due for conversion into aerial firefighters.
FAA issues emergency airworthiness directive for PW4000
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring US operators to immediately conduct thermal-imaging inspections of fan blades on certain Pratt & Whitney engines after the recent PW4077 failure on a United Airlines flight.
Lockheed Martin confident F-35 operating cost will be reduced to $25,000 per hour
The company is under pressure to deliver improvements to the aircraft’s reliability and operating costs as the jet’s leading customer, the US Air Force, considers cheaper alternatives such as the Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter or a clean-sheet 4.5-generation combat aircraft.
First USAF Boeing T-7A advanced trainer enters production
The US Air Force jet is likely to roll out of Boeing’s St. Louis, Missouri factory in late 2021 or early 2022.
NTSB says United engine failure caused by metal fatigue
After a preliminary onsite exam, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) says the engine failure on a United Airlines aircraft on 20 February was likely caused by metal fatigue.
Israel signs for Boeing KC-46, plans for more F-35s and heavy lift helicopters
The Israeli ministry of defence has signed a letter of acceptance (LOA) for two Boeing KC-46 in-flight refuelling tankers.
After 25 years, NTSB to dismantle TWA 800 reconstruction
he National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will soon dismantle the skeletal reconstruction of Trans World Airlines flight 800, the Boeing 747-100 that exploded over the Atlantic Ocean nearly 25 years ago.
Airline Business special: CEOs to watch in 2021
As the Covid-19 crisis moves into its second year, we feature some of the airline chiefs whose success or otherwise will be bellwethers of the industry’s recovery in 2021.
FAA orders emergency PW4000 inspections as airlines ground 777s
The US Federal Aviation Administration is ordering emergency inspections of some Pratt & Whitney PW4000-powered Boeing 777-200s in response to a 20 February in-flight uncontained engine failure.
United 777’s failed PW4000 appears uncontained, forward cowling missing
The 20 February failure of a Boeing 777-200’s Pratt & Whitney PW4077 turbofan was apparently an uncontained failure, with images showing damage similar to a 2018 event.
United 777 suffers engine failure over Denver
A United Airlines Boeing 777-200 suffered an engine failure just minutes after taking off, strewing debris across a Denver neighbourhood.
Astro Aerospace to acquire eVTOL maker Horizon Aircraft
US autonomous aircraft developer Astro Aerospace has signed an agreement to buy Horizon Aircraft, a Canadian company developing its own electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Former Boeing chief Condit joins Boom’s advisory board
Supersonic aircraft maker Boom Supersonic has landed former Boeing chief executive Philip Condit as an advisor.
Bombardier sells Mexico wiring business to Latecoere
Bombardier has sold its aerospace wiring business in Mexico to French aerospace company Latecoere for $45 million, closing a deal that had been in the works for more than one year.
US airlines throw support behind voluntary Covid-19 contact tracing
US airlines are joining together to support a comprehensive contact-tracing programme to help fight the spread of the coronavirus.
United to add Boston-Heathrow route
United Airlines will launch a daily nonstop route from Boston Logan to London Heathrow this year, assuming travel restrictions diminish and demand materialises.
Boeing 737 Max service return in the Americas gathers pace
Airlines across the Americas are first to test customer appetite for the aircraft in much-changed operating climate
Atlas reports $495 million profit for 2020
Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings generated an operating profit of $495 million for the full year 2020 despite the coronavirus pandemic downturn making it the worst year in history for air cargo demand, reversing its fortunes from an operating loss of $461 million in 2019.
Terrafugia to shut down US operations: reports
US-based flying car manufacturer Terrafugia will reportedly shut down US operations after it pulled the plug on local development of its two-seater Transition aircraft.
NATO declares initial operating capability for RQ-4D Phoenix fleet
NATO has declared initial operating capability for its fleet of RQ-4D Phoenix unmanned air vehicles.
NASA’s Mars helicopter ‘Ingenuity’ arrives on the red planet
NASA is preparing to fly the first unmanned robotic rotorcraft on another planet after its latest rover successfully landed on the planet’s surface on 18 February.
Brazil drops WTO subsidies suit against Canada, calls for negotiations
Brazil has dropped a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) in which it alleged that Bombardier, when developing the jet now called that A220, received unfair subsidies from Canadian governments.
Surf Air Mobility acquires Ampaire
Shared private aviation company Surf Air Mobility is acquiring electric aviation firm Ampaire, calling the latter’s hybrid-electric powertrain technology a “critical component” of Surf Air’s plan to expand in environmentally-friendly regional transportation.
US Air Force begins retiring group of 17 B-1B bombers
In all, the service plans to retire 17 B-1B supersonic bombers to free maintenance funds and labour for the 45 examples of the aircraft that will remain in the fleet. The reduced fleet should also free up funds for buying the in-development Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider stealth bomber.
Universal Hydrogen lands former Airbus chief as advisor, secures funding
Alternative fuel developer Universal Hydrogen has formed an advisory panel composed of former top-level Airbus executives, including former chief executive Tom Enders and former chief commercial officer (CCO) John Leahy.
American and JetBlue unveil first phase of collaboration
American Airlines and JetBlue Airways have unveiled new routes as they begin to consummate their strategic partnership.
De Havilland clarifies that Dash 8 production will cease in first half of 2021
De Havilland Aircraft confirms its expects to stop producing Dash 8-400s in the first half of 2021.
Rolling updates planned for HH-60W Combat Rescue Helicopter
After the original US Air Force requirements for the HH-60W Jolly Green II were overtaken by new threats within less than a decade – even before the first example of the rotorcraft was delivered – manufacturer Sikorsky is aiming to update the service’s Combat Rescue Helicopter on a rolling basis.
Two Boeing board members to step down in latest shake up
Two Boeing board members to step down in latest shake up
De Havilland to halt Dash 8 production, exit Downsview assembly site
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada will temporarily stop producing Dash 8s and begin vacating its Downsview Toronto production site in the second half of 2021.
Covid-hit airlines still seeking the initiative on sustainability
The airline industry could have been forgiven for concentrating on immediate challenges around its very survival during the Covid-19 crisis.
JetBlue pilots reject union support for American codeshare
JetBlue Airways pilots represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) union voted to reject a tentative agreement to give the carrier contractual relief for its codeshare with American Airlines, seeking more job security as the airline partnership nears completion.
USAF to consolidate multiple aircraft roles into Armed Overwatch
The US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) aims to consolidate multiple aircraft roles into its Armed Overwatch aircraft programme in order to save money on the War on Terror.
Las Vegas McCarran airport to be renamed after former US senator Harry Reid
Officials in Las Vegas have decided to rename the city’s McCarran International Airport after former democratic US senator Harry Reid.
Transat-Air Canada deal in limbo
The planned acquisition of Transat AT by Air Canada continues to be in limbo after the terms of the deal expired on 15 February without the necessary approvals in place to complete the transaction.
Challenges await as Rousseau takes Air Canada helm from Rovinescu
Air Canada’s Michael Rousseau takes the helm of the largest Canadian airline at a time when it faces multiple crises, the biggest of which is not of its own making.
Airlines anxiously await international rescue as variants trump vaccines
Concerns about variants of Covid-19 are spoiling what was, towards the end of 2020, expected to be a turning point for international air travel.
After more than $5bn in losses, can KC-46A become profitable?
The KC-46A programme is about $5.1 billion in the hole and there are questions about whether Boeing can make it profitable.
CAE’s civil training business remains profitable in most-recent quarter
Canadian pilot training company CAE’s civil aerospace business turned a C$48 million ($38 million) operating profit in the third quarter of the company’s 2021 fiscal year despite the pandemic driving revenue down by more than half.
US airlines lobby against potential Covid-19 test mandate for domestic flights
US airline executives have met with administration officials at the White House to lobby against government deliberations to impose a coronavirus testing requirement for all domestic air travellers.
Volaris sticks with P&W turbofans for another 80 A320neos
Mexican discount airline Volaris has agreed to power another 80 incoming Airbus A320neo-family jets with Pratt & Whitney PW1100G geared turbofans.
Air Canada ends ‘undeniably grim’ year with Q4 loss of C$1.2bn
Air Canada ended 2020 with a fourth-quarter loss of C$1.2 billion ($950 million), closing a year the company’s outgoing chief executive calls “undeniably grim”.
Air Canada ‘confident’ that government aid is coming
Air Canada’s chief executive is “confident” that the government of Canada will offer airlines a sector-specific financial aid package – the type of support for which the industry has clamoured since the coronavirus pandemic began.
Spirit targets return to full capacity in summer
Spirit Airlines made a $508 million operating loss in 2020 but plans to return to full pre-pandemic capacity levels by the summer travel season and take delivery of 16 aircraft by year-end.
Kaman plans flight tests of optionally piloted K-Max in first half of 2021
Kaman plans to start ground and flight testing its K-Max Unmanned Aerial System in the first half of 2021.
Pandemic could speed up sustainable ‘reset’ of aviation: webinar
Disruptive alternative propulsion will not come to aviation in leaps and bounds, but will require time, significant investment and partnerships between major manufacturers and small, nimble start-ups
Canada approves Air Canada’s acquisition of Transat
The Canadian government has approved Air Canada’s takeover of vacation specialist Transat AT, subject to numerous conditions.
Bombardier to cut 1,600 jobs and reduce manufacturing footprint in bid to slash costs
Bombardier in 2021 will eliminate 1,600 jobs, concentrate aircraft completions work in Montreal and divest real estate as part of a plan to eliminate hundreds of millions in annual costs and recapture profitability.
Bombardier to cease Learjet production at year-end
By the end of 2021 Bombardier will stop producing Learjets, a brand launched in the early 1960s by Bill Lear that quickly became synonymous with luxury travel for stars and business moguls.
US Navy orders final production lot of VH-92A ‘Marine One’ helicopters
The US Navy (USN) has ordered five additional VH-92As from Sikorsky as part of the final production lot in the Presidential Helicopter programme of record.
Analysts urge Boeing: launch a mid-market jet
Aerospace analysts are increasingly in agreement that Boeing must build a new narrowbody jet – lest it lose a huge chunk of valuable market share to competitor Airbus.
US government considers third aid package for airlines
The US government is considering a further $15 billion in payroll support for aviation workers as the industry hopes for recovery this year.
Air travel could fully recover by late 2022: analyst
A leading aerospace analyst is predicting that airline passenger traffic will return to 2019 levels by the end of 2022 – one to two years sooner than predicted by others.
Archer to go public as United partners with view to 200-strong eVTOL order
Palo Alto-based air taxi developer Archer has secured a $1 billion aircraft commitment from United Airlines and unveiled a plan to become a publicly traded company worth $3.8 billion.
Mesa defers revenue from mainlines amid $27m first-quarter profit
The parent company of Mesa Airlines reported an operating profit of $27 million during its first quarter of 2021 as it plans to continue to allow its mainline customers to defer payments to aid their recovery during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Why Boeing needs to work quickly on NMA decision
Boeing needs to begin work on a design for a planned new mid-market aircraft (NMA) if it is to remain competitive against Airbus, says an aviation analyst at the annual Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance conference, being held virtually this year.
Boeing’s backlog slips by 39 jets in January
Boeing’s backlog of commercial aircraft declined by 39 aircraft in January, though the company did receive new orders during the month for four 747-8 Freighters.
Allegiant announces 34 new routes
Allegiant Air will launch 34 new nonstop routes to domestic leisure destinations as the airline continues to plan for customers to return in larger numbers during the summer travel season.
Air Canada suspends flights to USA, Latin America, Europe and Asia
Air Canada is temporarily cutting 17 more routes as it struggles to operate amid government travel restrictions designed to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.
Textron unveils cabin-updated CJ4 variant
Textron Aviation has updated the Cessna CJ4’s cabin to create a new variant of the light-twin business jet called the CJ4 Gen2
Airbus lines outside Europe delivered most aircraft in January
Airbus’s delivery figures for January were unusual because, as a result of the air transport crisis, the majority of aircraft were handed over from its non-European final assembly lines.
Sun Country Airlines files for IPO
US leisure travel specialist Sun Country Airlines has applied to go public, according to a filing with the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC).
UPS receives first cockpit-updated A300, aims for fleet-wide updates by end-2022
Express air shipment company UPS has received its first Airbus A300 Freighter with Honeywell avionics updates and is now working to have its entire fleet upgraded before the end of 2022.
American expands international schedule from Miami
American Airlines is expanding international service from its Miami hub, with new direct flights to Tel Aviv and Paramaribo, Suriname, set to launch in June and July, respectively.
Delta to block middle seats through April
Delta Air Lines has extended through the end of April its ban on selling middle seats on its flights to give customers the additional “peace of mind” that comes with fewer passengers and the perceived lower risk of getting infected with the coronavirus.
Boeing turns page on troubled 2020 but strategy ill defined
Some analysts view Boeing’s fourth quarter 2020 results as a case of a company clearing the decks – dumping a barrel of bad news at the end of a terrible year so as to focus on rebuilding in 2021.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: February 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, 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.
Canadian operators West Wind and Transwest to consolidate as Rise Air
West Wind Aviation and Transwest Air will consolidate and rebrand as Rise Air to adapt to the travel downturn of the coronavirus pandemic and provide charter flights to western and northern Canada pending regulatory approval.
SkyWest loses $46 million in fourth quarter with reduced flight schedules
SkyWest Airlines says it lost $46 million in the fourth quarter of 2020, as reduced flight schedules and lower demand from its mainline airline partners continued to challenge the regional carrier.
Allegiant Q4 loss is $29m, sees recovery ‘on the horizon’
Allegiant Travel Company, the parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air, sees a post-coronavirus recovery “on the horizon” with customer travel intention steadily rising following almost a year of coronavirus-driven inertia.
American warns of more layoffs as expected summer travel demand falls short
Citing the slow pace of vaccinations and new travel restrictions, American Airlines has warned 13,000 workers they might be laid off after government aid expire on 31 March.
SkyWest asks for extension of temporary cargo reconfiguration rule
SkyWest has asked the FAA to extend a rule that allows carriers to temporarily reconfigure passenger aircraft to cargo operations, in light of the continued depressed demand in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Airline passenger traffic saw sharpest decline in history during 2020
The coronavirus-ravaged airline industry experienced its sharpest-ever decline in passenger demand during 2020, as global traffic fell 65.9% from 2019 levels, according to full-year data released by IATA today.
Spanish long-haul start-up World2Fly plans transatlantic services
Newly-established Spanish operator World2Fly is seeking to open transatlantic services to US destinations.
Air cargo demand decline in 2020 ‘worst since records began’
The air cargo sector – touted as the airline industry’s bright spot during the coronavirus crisis – saw its largest year-on-year fall in demand since IATA records began during 2020, although the final quarter brought signs of the gap closing.
Sunwing takes two more 737 Max from Air Lease
Lessor Air Lease has resumed deliveries of the Boeing 737 Max, having handed two of the jets to Canadian leisure carrier Sunwing Airlines.
IATA outlines scenario where Covid variants pummel 2021 traffic
The global airline industry might only see traffic growth of around 13% from 2020 levels this year amid the impact of new variants of Covid-19, according to a potential scenarios presented by IATA.
Sine Draco seeks FAA approval for A321 freighter conversion
Airbus A321 freighter conversion developer Sine Draco is formally seeking US FAA approval for the modification, and has recruited Sierra Nevada Corporation support arm 3S to assist with the regulatory compliance process.
Breeze takes delivery of first Embraer 190
Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) has delivered the first of 15 Embraer 190 jets to US start-up airline Breeze Airways.
Practical thinking behind striking new livery on DC-10 firefighter
Even aerial firefighting aircraft are worth a make-over, but the revamped livery on the distinctive McDonnell-Douglas DC-10-30 of US operator 10 Tanker serves a practical purpose.
US Senate confirms Pete Buttigieg as DOT head
The US Senate has confirmed Pete Buttigieg to lead the Department of Transportation (DOT) in the administration of President Joe Biden by a vote of 86-13.
SpaceX Starship rocket crashes during test flight
A SpaceX prototype rocket crashed on landing after conducting a test flight.
Former Boeing CEO’s start-up aims to invest in advanced aerospace technology
A new aerospace company led by former Boeing head Dennis Muilenburg has assembled an experienced management team and aims to advance technologies such as alternative propulsion, automation and manufacturing.
Qantas could launch Project Sunrise flights in 2024
Qantas could introduce ultra-long-haul flights under its delayed Project Sunrise programme as soon as 2024, according to the carrier’s chief executive, Alan Joyce.
Boeing’s commercial backlog value plunged 25% in 2020
The value of Boeing’s commercial aircraft backlog sunk 25% in 2020 as customers scuttled orders and sales uncertainty led Boeing to shift jets out of its firm backlog.
Boeing delays 737 Max 10 deliveries two years, to 2023
Boeing has further delayed its 737 Max 10 programme by two years, with deliveries of the largest variant of its re-engined narrowbody now scheduled to begin in 2023.
Biden meets with Republicans on Covid relief package
US President Joe Biden on 1 February met with a group of Republican senators at the White House to discuss their proposed $618 billion coronavirus relief package, while his administration continues to call for a $1.9 trillion stimulus to help the US economy weather the pandemic.
Summit amends Dornier 228 ice procedures after dual-engine flame-out
Canadian operator Summit Air Charters has modified icing procedures after an incident in which both engines on a Dornier 228 flamed out just after take-off on a service to Yellowknife.
JetBlue unveils new business seat aimed at London flights
JetBlue Airways has unveiled new full-flat business seats ahead of its planned launch of flights to London later this year.
Wheels Up to become public company in Q2
US private aviation company Wheels Up Partners has unveiled a plan to become a publicly traded company by merging with a “blank check company”.
Industry groups urge US government to reject domestic testing requirement
A coalition of travel industry lobby groups and unions is urging the new US administration to reject a coronavirus testing mandate for domestic air travel similar to the one that was introduced for international arrivals earlier this week.
United warns 14,000 employees their jobs may be in danger
United Airlines has put 14,000 employees on notice that their jobs are once again in danger when the second round of US government financial aid set aside for airline payroll support expires on 31 March.
Boom Supersonic hires aerospace, marketing veterans
Supersonic airliner developer Boom Supersonic has hired two senior executives with experience working at globally known aerospace and technology companies.
PSA returns CRJs to service after inspections
Regional carrier PSA Airlines is again flying its MHIRJ CRJ jets after having grounded the aircraft for mandatory inspections, PSA parent American Airlines says.
Lilium partners with Ferrovial to build ‘vertiports’ in Florida
German electric air taxi company Lilium has partnered with Spanish infrastructure company Ferrovial to build “at least 10 vertiports” in what it calls “strategic locations” across the southern US state of Florida.
Canada suspends all flights to Mexico and the Caribbean
Canadian airlines will suspend all flights to Mexico and the Caribbean for the next three months as the country imposes even stricter measures to stem the spread of new variants of the coronavirus.
Bombardier becomes pure business jet company with sale of rail unit
Bombardier has completed its planned transformation into solely a business jet manufacturer, having closed the sale of its train business to French company Alstom.
AeroTec expands maintenance work, hangar space
Aerospace services company AeroTec has opened a third maintenance hangar in Moses Lake, Washington and secured approvals to maintain several aircraft types.
De Havilland considers pausing production of Dash 8-400
De Havilland Canada confirms it is considering “pausing” production of its Dash 8-400 turboprop amid the pandemic.
US airlines blast possible Covid-19 test requirement for domestic travellers
Requiring Covid-19 tests for US domestic air passengers would be unnecessary, complex and impractical – or as one Southwest Airlines executive puts it, “a real goat rodeo”.
Southwest posts full-year loss for the first time since 1972
Southwest Airlines lost $908 million in the fourth quarter of 2020, bringing the airline’s full-year loss to $3 billion – the first time in 47 years that the carrier ended the year in negative earnings territory.
JetBlue lost $1.4bn in 2020
JetBlue Airways lost $1.4 billion in 2020, but is stressing that network and fleet shifts should position it to perform well when the air travel market recovers.
PSA Airlines grounds ‘most’ of CRJ fleet for inspections
US regional carrier PSA Airlines has removed “most” of its fleet of MHIRJ CRJ-series regional jets from service so as to inspect nose landing-gear doors.
American posts $2.2bn Q4 loss, bets on vaccinations
American Airlines says it lost $2.2 billion during the fourth quarter of the year, bringing its full-year loss to $8.9 billion as the coronavirus continues to plague the industry.
Controlling out-of-trim 737 Max will not require ‘exceptional’ strength
Critical to pilots’ acceptance of the Boeing 737 Max’s re-entry into service is the assurance that a serious out-of-trim situation can be easily resolved without the risk of manual controls becoming impossible to manipulate owing to aerodynamic forces.
Boeing CEO hints ‘mid-market’ aircraft remains on the table
Boeing’s chief executive has hinted that the company might still develop an aircraft similar to the conceptual jet known as the “New Mid-market Airplane”.
Boeing warns of 787 forward loss charge
Boeing may need to take a forward loss on its 787 programme if it must further trim production or if long-term demand dries up.
Aerospace machinist union calls for government aid
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has called on the government to offer additional assistance to the industry as part of any future Covid-19 relief measure.
Boeing to resume 787 deliveries no sooner than February
Boeing’s pause on 787 deliveries will continue until at least February, when the company expects to resume 787 deliveries following a several-month hiatus.
Boeing trims 777X production quantity expectation by 50 jets
Boeing has reduced the number of 777X it expects to produce over the life of that aircraft programme from 400 to 350 aircraft – a 12.5% cut.
Air Transat cancels all flights to and from Toronto
Canada’s Air Transat, the country’s third largest passenger carrier, has suspended all flights from Toronto for the rest of the winter season citing new travel restrictions that make conducting normal operations almost impossible.
Boeing making design modifications to 777X
Boeing’s latest 777X delay results partly from modifications Boeing is making to the jet’s design, including to actuator controls, so as to meet regulators’ “expectations”.
Boeing 737-10 processes to undergo revision after EASA’s Max scrutiny
One crucial consequence of the Boeing 737 Max scrutiny is that development and certification work for the 737-10 will differ substantially from that of the earlier Max variants.
Boeing reports $11.9bn 2020 loss, logs billions in Q4 charges
US manufacturing giant Boeing lost a staggering $11.9 billion in 2020, due partly to a $6.5 billion charge on its 777X programme but also the 737 Max grounding and the pandemic’s evaporating effect on travel demand.
Boeing delays first 777-9 delivery to 2023, takes $6.5bn charge
Boeing has further delayed the 777-9 programme, saying it intends to deliver the first of the aircraft type in late 2023.
Canada’s Flair Airlines to operate 13 Boeing 737 Max 8s
Canadian discount carrier Flair Airlines will lease 13 new Boeing 737 Max 8s from Miami-based private equity company 777 Partners, with deliveries starting in “early 2021”.
Hawaiian Airlines posts Q4 loss as travel restrictions remain
Hawaiian Airlines reported a fourth-quarter loss of $172.8 million as the ongoing global coronavirus crisis and ensuing strict travel restrictions in its home state continue to create hardship for the business.
Commercial aerospace recovery will begin in Q2, accelerate through 2021: Raytheon
Raytheon Technologies believes its subsidiaries Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace will begin experiencing notable recovery starting in the second quarter of 2021.
Fewer engine shipments and less aftermarket work hammer P&W and Collins 2020 results
Steep losses at Pratt & Whitney and slumping profits at Collins Aerospace pushed parent company Raytheon Technologies to a $3.5 billion loss in 2020.
Alaska posts $316mn Q4 loss, sees mixed bag for 2021
Alaska Air Group lost $316 million in the fourth quarter of 2020, and is preparing for a mixed bag in the current year as the coronavirus crisis drags on.
GE Aviation eyes recovery this year, as 2020 profits plunge by 82%
In 2020, GE Aviation’s engine sales sank 48% and its service revenue tumbled 36%, but the company expects the aerospace sector will begin recovering in the second half of this year.
US extends entry ban for most European nations and Brazil
The US government has extended an entry ban preventing travellers from Europe’s Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Brazil from entering the country in a further attempt to slow the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus, and its even more virulent mutations.
Sun Country introduces 16 new direct flights
Leisure specialist Sun Country has introduced 16 new flights, adding nine additional airports to its network in an effort to offer more passengers possibilities to fly direct to popular vacation destinations.
Alaska takes delivery of first Boeing 737 Max
Alaska Airlines has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737 Max aircraft as it begins to streamline its fleet, in an effort to improve overall efficiency and profitability.
How trust strained by the DC-10 fractured with the 737 Max
As the domino-chain grounding of the Boeing 737 Max and its gradual patchwork rehabilitation have revealed, unanimous agreement that air safety is paramount does not necessarily translate into a harmonised approach to delivering it.
Frontier picks P&W engines for first time to power 134 A320neos
US carrier Frontier Airlines has selected Pratt & Whitney PW1100Gs to power 134 incoming Airbus A320neo-family jets, a move that will diversify its fleet away from complete reliance on CFM International powerplants.
