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.
Aerion prepares to break ground on new Melbourne headquarters and production centre
Supersonic jet developer Aerion remains on track to begin producing its AS2 business jet at a new headquarters in Melbourne, Florida in 2023.
AeroTec selling Caravan used for all-electric project
Aircraft certification specialist AeroTec is selling the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan that it and partner Magnix flew with an all-electric propulsion system in May 2020.
Boeing commits by 2030 to produce jets that can burn 100% sustainable fuel
Boeing has committed that its new commercial aircraft will be able to burn 100% “sustainable” fuel by 2030, an achievement Boeing describes as essential to meeting industrywide carbon reduction goals by 2050.
US travel industry pushes back on potential quarantine
The US air transport and travel industries are pushing back on a potential quarantine requirement for international travellers arriving in the US, currently being weighed by the administration of President Joe Biden, in order to stem the spread of the coronavirus.
JetBlue complains it is being locked out of London slots
JetBlue Airways has complained to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) that it is being locked out of securing slots in London for its planned transatlantic expansion.
US airlines ask DOT to lead global Covid-19 testing programme for travellers
The US airline sector is urging the Department of Transportation to lead the creation of global Covid-19 testing standards for international travellers.
Biden requires masks on flights, pursues quarantine for international arrivals
The US government is mandating travellers wear face coverings on all public transportation, including on commercial airline flights and in airports, and is moving to require quarantines for inbound international passengers.
Biden’s DOT nominee commits to begin FAA review ‘right away’
If confirmed, President Joe Biden’s nominee to head the US Department of Transportation (DOT) intends to quickly take steps to strengthen the Federal Aviation Administration’s oversight of aircraft certification.
Canada’s WestJet returns Boeing 737 Max to service
Canada’s WestJet returned the Boeing 737 Max to revenue service on 21 January with a flight from Calgary to Vancouver, becoming Canada’s first airline to fly the aircraft commercially following an almost two-year pause.
United expects expanded profit margins by 2023
United Airlines expects to exceed its 2019 profit margin by 2023, executives say a day after the airline reported a $7.1 billion full-year loss for coronavirus-plagued 2020.
US President Biden to sign order mandating masks on aircraft
The new US administration of President Joe Biden will require face coverings be worn on flights in a more rigorous attempt to contain exploding coronavirus case counts across the country, according to reports.
United posts $1.9b Q4 loss ahead of ‘transition year’
United Airlines lost $1.9 billion in the fourth quarter of 2020 but is preparing for a “transition year”, following the devastating effects of the global coronavirus pandemic on the airline’s business and the industry as a whole.
Canada’s Cargojet to acquire two 777Fs, five 767Fs
Canadian freight airline Cargojet intends to acquire five Boeing 767 Freighters and two 777Fs in the coming years – enabling it to meet increasing demand for air cargo.
FAA requires fuel-sealant inspections on some Boeing 737 Max 9s
The Federal Aviation Administration is proposing inspections of 25 Boeing 737 Max 9s after determining that a fuel sealant was not applied during manufacturing.
DOT seeks to collect more ticket data from more US airlines
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) intends to collect additional passenger ticket data from airlines as part of an overhaul of its Origin-Destination Survey.
Magnix consolidates, moves headquarters from Redmond to Everett, Washington
Electric aircraft propulsion company Magnix is consolidating its operations at a new headquarters in Everett, Washington, a move the company says will give it a greater presence in Washington’s aerospace hub.
Is this the new look for Eviation’s Alice?
An image obtained by FlightGlobal shows what appears to be an evolution of Eviation’s design for its all-electric Alice commuter aircraft.
Biden team says US travel restrictions will remain
The administration of US President-elect Joe Biden has no intention of immediately lifting the USA’s entry ban on travellers arriving from certain coronavirus-affected countries.
BBAM orders another six 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters
Aircraft lessor BBAM Limited Partnership has placed orders with Boeing for the conversion of six additional 737-800s into the Boeing Converted Freighter configuration.
US carriers’ fate hangs on vaccine rollout
US carriers will likely have to slog through the prime summer season and most of 2021 continuing to burn millions in cash daily as they await the herd immunity promised by mass Covid-19 vaccination.
Air Canada caters for passengers’ anxiety as it details 737 Max re-introduction
Air Canada is to return the Boeing 737 Max to service at the beginning of February, after the Canadian civil aviation regulator detailed the requirements for clearing the aircraft for flight.
Flybe Q400s to be converted into firefighters for Conair
Source: Conair Group Eleven Q400s, formerly with Flybe, are being transferred to Conair
US airlines begin tapping into government aid
The US government has begun disbursing $15 billion in payroll assistance to airlines, which have been eagerly awaiting the financial relief ever since an earlier programme expired in September.
Former KPMG CEO Doughtie joins Boeing’s board as Kennedy steps down
Former KPMG chief executive Lynne Doughtie has joined Boeing’s board of directors, filling a seat left vacant by the resignation of board member Caroline Kennedy.
Embraer North American president Spulak retires
Gary Spulak, the longtime president of Embraer’s US business, retired from the Brazilian airframer at the end of 2020, Embraer confirms.
US airlines gear up for potential trouble ahead of presidential inauguration
US airlines have adopted stricter safety policies on flights to and from the Washington, DC-area ahead of the presidential inauguration scheduled for 20 January.
US airline unions seek mask mandate from Biden
US president-elect Joe Biden after his inauguration on 20 January plans to enact a federal mandate for interstate travellers on aircraft, trains and buses to wear masks after the Trump administration refused petitions from both airlines and pilot unions to order a mask rule.
Delta Air Lines’ 2020 loss tops $12 billion in ‘toughest year’
Delta Air Lines reported a fourth-quarter net loss of $755 million as the carrier endured what the it calls “the toughest year in Delta’s history”.
Aerospace leaders see clearing skies, eye post-Covid air travel boom
Things might get worse for the global aerospace industry before they get better. But the industry will recover, likely starting this year, thanks to vaccine distribution and pent-up demand for air travel.
Air Canada to expand cargo business through 767 sale, leaseback
Air Canada is having two passenger Boeing 767-300ERs converted to freighters, and also selling the jets and leasing them back.
Spirit AeroSystems and GE Aviation beneficiaries of $125m in US-backed loans
The Export-Import Bank of the United States has agreed to guarantee two financing deals that will provide $125 million to support aerospace work at GE Aviation and Spirit AeroSystems.
United waives fare change charges for US-bound customers
United Airlines is waiving fare difference charges for international passengers who choose to travel to the United States before the nation’s blanket coronavirus testing requirement begins on 26 January.
Delta hires former Bombardier chief executive Bellemare
Delta Air Lines has named former Bombardier chief executive Alain Bellemare to be its new President-International, the carrier says.
Air Canada cuts more jobs and capacity
Air Canada will once again reduce its employee count and shrink its network, citing new Canadian travel restrictions aimed at mitigating the spread of the coronavirus.
Freighter line hands Boeing advantage in twin-aisle delivery contest
While Airbus delivered far more aircraft overall than Boeing last year, the US airframer’s freighter activity meant it was able to hand over a greater number of twin-aisle models.
How Airbus’ 2020 orders and deliveries compare to Boeing’s
The release by Airbus and Boeing of full-year 2020 order and delivery figures has brought into stark view just how significantly the Covid-19 pandemic has stricken the world’s two largest airframers.
USA to require negative coronavirus test for inbound passengers
The US government will begin requiring all inbound international air travellers to provide a negative coronavirus test result that is less than 72h old before entering the country.
US DOT clears planned American-JetBlue partnership: airlines
JetBlue Airways and American Airlines say the US Department of Transportation (DOT) has cleared their planned strategic alliance, despite low-cost carriers warning that the tie-up may stifle competition.
Middle East’s Jordan Aviation discloses plans for US services
Middle Eastern carrier Jordan Aviation is seeking to open scheduled services to the USA within the next four months.
Canada names new Transport Minister
Canada has named a new Minister of Transport in a cabinet reshuffle as the country’s airline industry continues to suffer from the effects of the global coronavirus crisis
DHL orders another eight 777Fs
DHL Express has ordered another eight Boeing 777 Freighters, providing a much needed boost to Boeing at a time when demand for passenger jets remains severely curtailed.
Airline bookings weaken as IATA warns recovery ‘some way away’
Forward airline bookings have weakened going into the first quarter of 2021, as IATA warns that the situation is likely to get worse before it gets better.
Boeing closes 2020 with backlog down 22% in one year
Boeing logged another month of zero 787 deliveries in December 2020, while also receiving cancellations for another 105 737 Max.
March Heli-Expo to be in-person event
The Helicopter Association International is moving ahead with plans for its 2021 HAI Heli-Expo trade show in March to be held in person – not just virtually.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: January 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.
US lawmakers urge FAA to beef up security planning ahead of inauguration
Two US lawmakers have asked the FAA to coordinate with airlines ahead of the presidential inauguration next week in order to prevent violent protesters from travelling to Washington, DC and potentially threatening the safety of the air transport system.
Spirit, Southwest reiterate concerns about JetBlue-American partnership
Spirit Airlines and Southwest Airlines have “serious competitive concerns” about the planned strategic partnership between JetBlue Airways and American Airlines.
Porter Airlines delays restart to 29 March
Canada’s Porter Airlines has once again delayed resuming flights, and is now targeting a date more than one year after it shut down due to the global coronavirus crisis.
Airbus dismayed as US tariffs sting aircraft structure shipments
Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury has reiterated the need for a negotiated settlement to the long-running transatlantic subsidies dispute, as the US government – in the final days of the Trump administration – prepares to put further sanctions in place.
Emirates 777-9 comments raise questions about delivery timeline and launch operator
Recent comments suggest that Emirates now expects to receive its first Boeing 777-9 in 2023, a development that raises questions about delivery timelines and launch customers.
Students flock to some US flight schools despite aerospace industry woes
Evidence suggests that student pilots continue streaming into US flight schools despite the Covid-19 pandemic having left the world’s airline industry scrambling to survive.
NTSB calls for more scrutiny of flight instructors
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the federal agency responsible for aviation accident investigations, has recommended closer scrutiny of flight instructors following a 2019 crash in Mokuleia, Hawaii that killed 11 people.
WestJet cuts more staff and flights, citing Canadian travel restrictions
Canadian low-cost carrier WestJet is laying off more employees and cutting its already pared network by another third, citing government travel restrictions.
Does shift towards pre-flight Covid-19 testing spell disaster for airlines?
The tightening of border controls is an emerging theme in the early days of 2021, as governments react to concerns about new variants of Covid-19 and soaring infection rates in many regions.
US lawmaker urges authorities to place rioters on national no-fly list
A US lawmaker has asked aviation security and law enforcement authorities to place customers who have been identified as committing crimes during the 6 January riot in Washington, DC on the national “no-fly” list.
US government blames just two Boeing test pilots for Boeing’s Max ‘fraud’
The US government’s criminal case against Boeing rested on the actions of just two Boeing employees who prosecutors say conspired to defraud the US government.
Boeing to pay $2.5bn to settle US government’s 737 Max investigation, avoids prosecution
Boeing has agreed to pay $2.5 billion to settle a Department of Justice criminal investigation into circumstances surrounding the certification of the 737 Max.
Online travel agency sues JetBlue for 'unfair fare practices'
An online travel agency group is suing low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways for removing its flights from the external travel portals, forcing customers to book more expensive fares through the airline’s own website.
US Transportation Secretary Chao resigns after pro-Trump riot
Elaine Chao, who heads the powerful US Department of Transportation, has said she will resign, a day after pro-Trump rioters stormed the US Capitol building in Washington, DC, leaving destruction and chaos in their wake.
Air travel demand flatlined in November: IATA
Air travel demand remained sharply down in November, IATA’s latest industry statistics show, as resurgent Covid-19 cases and renewed travel restrictions battered passenger confidence.
Air cargo volumes to reach 2019 levels by March or April: IATA
Global air cargo volumes sank more than 6% year on year in November, but remain on track to return to 2019 levels by March or April, according to IATA.
Aviation union warns of safety onboard aircraft after Washington, DC riots
A US airline flight attendants’ union says its members are afraid for their safety onboard aircraft after an angry mob of rioters breached the US Capitol building in Washington, DC earlier in the day. The mob was attempting to stop the certification of the election of Joe Biden as president of the USA.
Boeing confirms closure of Seattle R&D center
Boeing confirms that it intends this year to shutter a research and development site in Seattle, shifting work performed there to other locations.
WestJet prepares for 737 Max flights pending approval
WestJet will begin non-commercial test flights of its Boeing 737 Max aircraft during the coming weeks with the aim of having the aircraft type ready to resume revenue flights on 21 January pending approval from Transport Canada.
FAA requires more V2500 disk removals in response to 2020 uncontained failure
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring airlines to remove more high-pressure turbine (HPT) disks from International Aero Engines V2500s in response to a 2020 disk failure.
New US regulation aims to streamline civil supersonic flight test approvals
US regulators have finalised a rule intended to ease the process by which aircraft manufacturers obtain approvals to perform supersonic aircraft flight tests.
Delta to install new wi-fi portal in 300 of its narrowbody jets
Delta Air Lines has inked a partnership with communications company Viasat that will deliver a new branded high-speed wi-fi portal to passengers on more than 300 of its narrowbody aircraft.
American, Alaska ban emotional support animals inside the cabin
American Airlines and Alaska Airlines are shutting down the practice of bringing so-called “emotional support animals” (ESAs) into aircraft cabins, after the US Department of Transportation (DOT) last month gave passenger carriers the right to ban them.
Wheels Up purchases charter company Mountain Aviation
US charter company Wheels Up continues to expand through acquisition, announcing it has purchased Colorado-based private aviation company Mountain Aviation.
Aircraft designs must better account for pilot responses: US law
The Federal Aviation Administration will soon require aircraft manufacturers to fully consider how various cockpit warnings might affect the ability of pilots to properly respond to failures.
New law targets FAA’s self-certification system, takes aim at 737 Max lessons
The US government has ordered an “expert review” of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) programme, while also setting aside $81 million to help the FAA hire more technical staffers.
Delta sells seven Boeing 767-300ERs to Amazon Air
Amazon Air has purchased seven Boeing 767-300ERs from Delta Air Lines, growing its fleet as the shortage of cargo capacity during the coronavirus pandemic increases opportunities to generate revenue from air freight.
IATA blasts Canada’s new testing rule for inbound air passengers
Airlines trade group IATA has blasted the government of Canada after it imposed new travel restrictions on inbound air passengers beginning later this week.
Bombardier completes acquisition of Berlin service center
Bombardier has acquired 100% of an aircraft service centre in Berlin, buying out partners amid a broader effort by the Canadian company to expand its aircraft service business.
US hits Europe with new tariffs on aircraft parts
The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) has placed new tariffs on aircraft manufacturing parts as well as some alcohol products from the European Union in an ongoing transatlantic spat about aerospace subsidies.
Canada adds negative test to quarantine requirement for inbound travellers
The government of Canada has imposed additional travel restrictions for all inbound air passengers in a further effort to stop the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus.
United calls on US presidential transition team to restore air travel
United Airlines has appealed to advisors of US President-elect Joe Biden to set up a task force that would re-establish air travel as the global coronavirus pandemic leaves carriers to flounder amid continued depressed demand.
American Airlines’ Boeing 737 Max returns to revenue service
American Airlines has become the first US carrier to conduct a revenue flight on the Boeing 737 Max aircraft following the type’s ungrounding last month.
US issues emissions standards for new aircraft
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has for the first time issued greenhouse gas (GHG) standards for new aircraft which, it argues, will ensure “international consistency” and give US manufacturers a “level playing field” with foreign competitors.
FAA publishes new rules on drone operations
The Federal Aviation Administration has published two new rules for drone operations that it says will increase safety in the fastest-growing sector of the aviation industry today.
Southwest rescinds furlough warning notices
Southwest Airlines is rescinding its warnings of imminent furloughs to almost 7,000 employees after US president Donald Trump signed a government funding bill that sets aside a second tranche of coronavirus pandemic-relief funds for US airline workers.
Trump signs law providing pandemic aid to US airlines
US president Donald Trump has signed a US government funding bill that sets aside a second tranche of pandemic-relief funds for US airline workers, according to a Trump administration spokesperson.
Canada orders Hermes 900 for environmental monitoring
Transport Canada has ordered a single Elbit Systems Hermes 900 Starliner unmanned air vehicle (UAV) to serve in the environmental monitoring mission.
Air Canada Boeing 737 Max suffers engine issue on ferry flight
Air Canada says that one of its reactivated Boeing 737 Max experienced an engine issue during a repositioning flight, bringing renewed scrutiny to the beleaguered type just weeks after it was re-certificated following a 20-month grounding.
United to require negative covid test for US-bound passengers from the UK
United Airlines will begin requiring US-bound passengers from the UK to show proof of a negative coronavirus test result as a more virulent strain of the virus continues to tear across southern England.
Bombardier receives order for 10 Challenger 350 jets
Bombardier says it has received a firm order for 10 of its super-midsize Challenger 350 business jets, one of the largest orders of the year.
Boeing to speed up transfer of 787 production to South Carolina: reports
Boeing is reportedly speeding up the transfer of all 787 aircraft production to its North Charleston, South Carolina plant.
L3Harris secures contract for new low-band jammer work
L3Harris has secured a $496 million engineering and manufacturing development contract for further work on the US Navy’s Next Generation Jammer Low Band (NGJ-LB) project.
Atlas completes transatlantic flight using sustainable aviation fuel
Cargo carrier Atlas Air Worldwide has completed a test flight from Europe to Latin America using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) sourced from fresh vegetable oil.
Delta, Virgin join British Airways in testing passengers from UK
Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Airways will join British Airways in implementing pre-departure Covid-19 testing for passengers booked on flights from the United Kingdom to the United States.
US airlines express relief at new coronavirus relief bill
US airlines have expressed relief after legislators in Washington, DC reached an agreement on a deal to extend payroll protections to aviation workers to the tune of $15 billion.
British Airways will test all inbound passengers to New York at governor’s request
At the request of New York’s governor Andrew Cuomo, British Airways will be testing all New-York-bound passengers from the UK prior to departure as a new, more contagious mutation of the coronavirus rages in the southwest of England.
Third Libyan charged with Pan Am 747 bombing after 32 years
Precisely 32 years after a bomb explosion destroyed a Pan Am Boeing 747-100 over Scotland, the US government has formally charged a third person with the attack on the aircraft.
US lawmakers agree on long-awaited extension of financial aid
After months of negotiations, US lawmakers in Washington, DC have agreed on an additional $900 billion relief package that gives airlines $15 billion more in payroll support to help them manage through the ongoing coronavirus crisis
How might new Covid-19 strains affect the airline industry’s outlook?
The emergence of more infectious strains of Covid-19 and the consequent restrictions placed on travel to and from the UK, Denmark and South Africa could have significant implications for the airline industry’s recovery path.
Lockheed Martin in $4.4 billion acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne
Lockheed Martin will acquire Aerojet Rocketdyne for $4.4 billion, in a bid to beef up its capabilities in advanced propulsion.
Canada and other countries bar flights from UK as virus fears spike
Canadian regulators have prohibited the operation of commercial passenger flights from the UK to Canada – a move coming after the UK announced it identified a new, faster-spreading strain of the Covid-19 virus.
United to return Boeing 737 Max to service on 11 February
United Airlines plans to bring the Boeing 737 Max aircraft back into its schedule from 11 February, with departures out of its Denver and Houston hubs.
Canada’s OWG launches with initial flight to Cuba
The inaugural revenue flight of new Canadian airline OWG has taken off from Toronto’s Pearson International airport, headed to Santa Clara Abel Santamaria airport in Cuba.
Electric Cessna 208B suffered partial power loss during test flight
Electric propulsion company Magnix confirms that an electric-powered Cessna 208B Grand Caravan landed under degraded power after an issue with an inverter during a test flight.
In pictures: The airline industry’s crisis year
A year that began with plenty of reasons for optimism about the industry’s prospects quickly turned into 12 months of unprecedented challenges, dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic
Faradair chooses MagniX for electric aircraft project
US electric propulsion specialist MagniX will collaborate with UK-based Faradair Aerospace to deliver an 18-seat Bio Electric Hybrid Aircraft (BEHA) by 2026, giving the sustainable aircraft sector a good-news boost during an otherwise bleak year for aerospace.
Canada ‘validates’ Max updates ahead of January order
Canada’s civil aviation regulator has “validated” Boeing’s 737 Max updates, indicating it will lift the jet’s grounding in January.
F-35 deliveries to reach 121 units this year, Lockheed says
With just two weeks of 2020 remaining, Lockheed Martin expects to end December having delivered a total of 121 F-35 stealth fighters this year.
US Air Force deploys first automated quadcopter for base security
The US Air Force has deployed its first automated unmanned air vehicle security system for an airbase.
JetBlue expands across sun destinations
JetBlue Airways is launching a major expansion to southern sun destinations - including four new airports - in a broad effort to snag more of the vacation market from its competitors as the air travel industry slowly climbs out of its coronavirus-driven hibernation.
United Airlines launches contact tracing for all flights
United Airlines is introducing contact tracing for all of its flights as the coronavirus pandemic continues to unsettle customers who are wary about spending time in close proximity to strangers on an airplane.
Boeing hires pilots to assist customers with Max and other models: report
A European staffing company is reportedly hiring some 160 pilots to assist Boeing’s customers with various aircraft models, including the 737 Max.
Kazzaz to succeed Rousseau as Air Canada chief financial officer
Air Canada has named Amos Kazzaz as its new chief financial officer, replacing Michael Rousseau who will be taking the role of chief executive officer at the Montreal-based carrier in February.
Southwest raises daily cash burn estimate for fourth quarter
Southwest Airlines has raised its average daily cash burn expectations for the fourth quarter as the air travel recovery stalls following exploding coronavirus case counts across the United States.
As vaccine shipments accelerate, Boeing and FAA highlight dry ice guidelines
As the world’s airlines begin distributing Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine to various corners of the globe, Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration are reminding carriers about dry-ice shipping guidelines.
US airlines see potential in reshaped networks
US airlines are rethinking their network strategies to get the most out of the coronavirus-driven industry shifts.
Former presidential candidate Buttigieg nominated to head US DOT
US president-elect Joe Biden has nominated former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg as his choice for secretary of transportation.
US Congress inches closer to second round of airline aid
Airline groups are rallying behind a broadly-supported bill that would benefit airline workers by extending financial aid to struggling US carriers.
Eviation tweaks Alice design, aims for 2021 first flight
Eviation has tweaked the design of its Alice electric aircraft and intends to fly the model in 2021 despite a battery fire that damaged a prototype early this year.
Air Force Research Lab demos ‘record-breaking’ scramjet and ‘high-speed’ warhead
The US Air Force Research Laboratory completed a series of “record-breaking tests” of a scramjet engine in November. The laboratory also finished sled testing a new ‘high-speed’ warhead technology.
Boeing’s 787 inventory hits 60 amid broader quality issues
Boeing’s stockpile of undelivered 787s has swelled in recent weeks as the company addresses quality issues determined to be more widespread than initially suspected.
Transat shareholders green light discounted sale to Air Canada
Shareholders of Transat AT, parent to leisure carrier Air Transat, have approved a plan under which Transat will be sold to Air Canada at a significant discount.
Lessor DAE delivers 737 Max 8 to American Airlines
Lessor Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has delivered a Boeing 737 Max 8 to American Airlines, the first of 18 737 Max 8s acquired under a sale & leaseback (SLB) deal.
Saab offers two aerospace centres in Gripen E proposal for Canada’s Future Fighter
Saab is offering to open two new aerospace centres as part of its Gripen E proposal for Canada’s Future Fighter Capability Project.
Transat warns of ability to remain ‘going concern’, eyes Air Canada lifeline
Transat AT, owner of Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat, has warned investors about its ability to remain in business “as a going concern” if a planned acquisition by Air Canada falls through.
FAA clears pilots to receive Pfizer vaccine
The Federal Aviation Administration is allowing pilots to receive Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine, so long as they wait 48h before returning to the cockpit.
Tamarack calls attention to factors contributing to a 2019 Cessna CJ1+ incident
Winglet maker Tamarack Aerospace is stressing that several factors other than erroneous deployment of a control surface contributed to a 2019 incident involving a Cessna Citation CJ1+.
Montreal’s aerospace industry to partner with Nagoya’s aviation cluster
Quebec’s aerospace industry has partnered with the aerospace cluster in Japan’s Aichi prefecture, home to Japanese aerospace company Mitsubishi Aircraft in the industrial city of Nagoya.
Return of 737 Max marks just one of Boeing’s comeback challenges for 2021
Boeing’s troubles are far from solved, but the events of 18 November 2020 at least cleared a cloud that had overshadowed the Chicago airframer for 20 months.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: December 2020 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, airport passenger throughput, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Probe traces ATR terrain alert to wrong airport's weather data
Canadian investigators have traced an unexpected ground-proximity warning on a domestically-operated ATR 42-300 to an altimeter setting error triggered by an incorrect weather-data transmission.
US passenger airlines’ employment dips to lowest level in at least 30 years
Scheduled US passenger airlines cut almost 37,000 jobs in the one-month period ending mid-October, bringing that sector’s employment to the lowest level in at least 30 years, US government data shows.
Pilots urge FAA to fast-track approval of Covid-19 vaccine for flight crew
A top US pilot union wants to ensure pilots can get jabbed with the Covid-19 vaccine – and not lose their medical certificates.
United to invest in ‘direct air capture’ as it makes 2050 carbon-neutral pledge
United Airlines has unveiled an effort to become carbon neutral by 2050 through investments in a process that strips CO2 from air and deposits it underground.
‘Sledgehammer’ sanctions on Comac will harm US more: think-tank
A senior advisor at a US think-tank has criticised potential sanctions against Chinese airframer Comac as being more detrimental to the US aerospace industry than their intended target, China.
UK risks friction as it drops tariffs on Boeing jets in bid to end WTO spat
Boeing and Airbus’s long-running transatlantic dispute over government subsidies to their civil aircraft development industries has taken a new turn following the UK government’s unilateral decision to suspend tariffs on the US airframer’s aircraft imports.
Lawmakers propose second round of airline funding
A bipartisan group of lawmakers have proposed a second coronavirus relief package that would provide airlines and airports with another round of pandemic-relief funding.
Ampaire demonstrates hybrid-electric Cessna on flight across Maui
Electric aircraft company Ampaire has flown its hybrid-electric powered Cessna 337 Skymaster on what it calls an “actual airline route”, between two of Hawaii’s islands.
Joby Aviation to acquire Uber Elevate
Joby Aviation has entered a deal to acquire Uber Elevate, with Uber to also invest $75 million into the California-based developer of small electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles for taxi services.
Boeing resumes Max deliveries as United receives new jet
Boeing has resumed deliveries of the 737 Max, with United Airlines receiving an aircraft on 8 December, the carrier confirms.
Boeing needs to develop a smaller mid-market aircraft: analysts
Competitive pressure will require that Boeing move forward with developing a mid-market aircraft. But that jet must be smaller than the concept Boeing had previously been studying, aerospace analysts say.
Boeing logs more Max cancellations in November as deliveries slow
Boeing recorded 88 cancellations for the 737 Max in November, and delivered just seven jets, as the coronavirus pandemic continued hammering the commercial aviation market.
Montana to succeed Weir as American Airlines’ treasurer
American Airlines’ former assistant treasurer Meghan Montana has succeeded Tom Weir as vice-president and treasurer, the Fort Worth, Texas-based airline says.
Viking pushes back ‘formal launch’ of CL-515 water bomber
Canadian airframer Viking Air confirms it has delayed the launch of its CL-515 First Responder aerial firefighter aircraft, citing the Covid-19 pandemic.
Liquidity still US carriers’ focus despite vaccine news
US airline executives’ attempts during their third-quarter earnings calls to shift the narrative from liquidity levels to visions of a cash-positive recovery had an air of wishful thinking.
Boeing trims 787 production again, as undelivered inventory climbs
Boeing has cut its planned 2021 787 production from six to five jets monthly in response to the long-haul air travel sector’s lack of recovery.
US airlines hike Q4 cash burn estimates
US airlines are warning that exploding coronavirus case counts across the country have sparked a new wave of cancellations which will negatively affect their business in the current quarter, including expectations of higher-than-previously-forecasted cash burn.
Bubbles, testing, vaccines, quarantines: airlines brace for complicated 2021
There is a high risk that a reduction in the threat posed by Covid-19 might only further expose a messy operating environment for international travel, stymieing the sector’s ability to take advantage of the virus’s reduced prevalence.
FAA order targets 787 localiser-capture issues
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring 787 operators to update aircraft flight manuals to include new localizer-approach procedures.
Southwest warns 6,828 employees of impending job losses
Southwest Airlines has warned 6,828 employees that their jobs may be at risk, the first large-scale involuntary furlough scheme at the company since the beginning of the coronavirus crisis.
Boeing positions Ryanair deal as 'momentum' ahead of optimistic 2021
Boeing’s executives are describing Ryanair’s new 737 Max order as a turning point for the troubled Max programme and indicative of a faster-than-expected airline sector recovery.
Delta introduces contact tracing for international travellers
Delta Air Lines is the first major US carrier to introduce contact tracing for passengers arriving from overseas.
Delta wins Decade of Airline Excellence Award for North America region
Recipient of the Decade of Airline Excellence Award for the North America region, sponsored by Pratt & Whitney, and the overall winner.
To boost confidence, American offers five employee-only flights in the Boeing 737 Max
American Airlines plans to operate five employee-only flights in the newly re-certificated Boeing 737 Max ahead of its first scheduled passenger revenue flight on 29 December.
Winglet maker Tamarack expands with new South Carolina install site
Business-aircraft winglet manufacturer Tamarack Aerospace has opened a new installation facility in South Carolina, adding a third such installation site to the company’s footprint.
No more emotional-support peacocks inside the cabin: DOT
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) says airlines may ban almost all so-called “emotional support animals” (ESAs) inside the aircraft cabin, putting an end to passengers bringing unusual and sometimes intimidating creatures with them on their travels.
Business aviation showing improvement as 2020 ends: Honeywell
The business aircraft sector has improved in the back half of 2020 but flight hours this year will still be down some 30% from 2019 levels, says Honeywell Aerospace chief executive Mike Madsen.
Collins targets clean-cabin technologies, eyes supersonic future
Amid the pandemic, Collins Aerospace continues to invest in supersonic aircraft technology while eyeing aspects of business and commercial aviation that will be “systematically” changed by Covid-19
What challenges do airlines face as they reintroduce Boeing 737 Max jets?
With the US Federal Aviation Administration’s long-awaited recertification of the Boeing 737 Max being swiftly followed by the same from Brazil’s ANAC, carriers in the Americas are preparing to reintroduce the narrowbody type to paying passengers.
Lockheed Martin moves to connect USAF F-35 simulators in USA and UK in 2021
Lockheed Martin plans to connect full-mission simulators in the USA and in the UK at RAF Lakenheath through a software upgrade starting in 2021, allowing US Air Force pilots to virtually train with one another across international borders.
Boeing Capital gets boost with $5bn commitment from Castlelake
Investment company Castlelake has agreed to provide Boeing’s customers with up to $5 billion in financing for the purchase of new jets.
US lawmakers reportedly earmark $17b for airlines in new coronavirus stimulus package
US lawmakers in Washington, DC have submitted a bi-partisan relief package worth $908 billion to extend coronavirus-crisis-driven financial aid after the previous bill, called the CARES Act, expired on 1 October.
Hawaiian cuts service as Kauai opts out of pre-travel testing
The popular Hawaiian tourist destination Kauai has opted out of the state’s pre-travel coronavirus testing programme and re-imposed a mandatory quarantine for all inbound passengers, once again disrupting Hawaiian Airlines’ return to normal service.
Udvar-Hazy talks recent travel, 2021 rebound and demand for Boeing’s 737 Max
Air Lease chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy thinks demand for new jets will boom post-Covid, thinks Boeing’s next move must leapfrog Airbus
Embraer to allow ERJ-145 operators to install HEPA filters
Embraer has issued a service bulletin allowing operators of its 50-seat ERJ-145 regional jet to install high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, with the first kits to be delivered by next month.
F-35A drops inert nuclear bomb for first time
The Lockheed Martin F-35A has operated a flight test involving the dropping of a mock B61-12 nuclear bomb.
Airport slots board requests summer 2021 relief from 80:20 rule
Airports, airlines and slot coordinators have joined forces to call for some relief on slot rules during the northern hemisphere’s summer 2021 season.
B-1B pylon work sets stage for hypersonic weapons carriage
A Boeing B-1B has performed a captive carry test that could pave the way for the swing-wing type to carry hypersonic missiles externally.
CMV-22B Osprey in maiden flight to an aircraft carrier
The US Navy (USN) has conducted the first landing and refuelling of a Bell Boeing CMV-22B Osprey aboard an aircraft carrier.
Delta pilots agree to pay cuts to avoid furloughs through 2021
Pilots at Delta Air Lines have agreed to cost-cutting measures that will prevent involuntary furloughs of cockpit crew through the end of 2021.
Covid impact sees China shoot up global airline connectivity ranking
The latest air connectivity ranking from IATA shows how China’s large domestic airline market – and the country’s apparent success in controlling the spread of Covid-19 – has boosted its fortunes versus other markets.
CAE to buy Tru Simulation’s non-US assets from Textron
Canadian flight training company CAE has agreed to buy Tru Simulation and Training’s non-US assets from US conglomerate Textron for $40 million.
IATA puts faith in sustainable aviation fuels
IATA is urging governments to promote sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a critical tool to enabling the industry to halve its CO2 emissions against 2005 levels by 2050.
No one-size-fits-all answer to testing airline passengers: WHO chief
The testing of international travellers for Covid-19 must not take resources away from higher-priority areas and should be tailored to each country’s need, in the view of World Health Organization director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Mesa will operate 40 CRJ900s for American Airlines
Mesa Air Group, the parent company of Mesa Airlines has signed a new five-year contract with American Airlines to operate 40 Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft for the Fort-Worth-based carrier beginning on 1 January.
Pandemic’s effect on converted freighters led Boeing to trim 20-year cargo outlook
A pandemic-caused surge in conversions of younger passenger jets to freighters is among reasons why Boeing cut its 20-year cargo-jet forecast.
How EASA’s 737 Max requirements differ from the US FAA’s
While the European airworthiness directive to modify the Boeing 737 Max for return-to-service are the same as those issued by the US FAA, some of the operational requirements will differ.
Asian and North American airlines to lead recovery but all regions loss-making in 2021
IATA expects airlines in Asia-Pacific and North America to lead the recovery in 2021 aided by strong domestic markets, though it still sees all regions loss-making as international passenger markets struggle to recover from the pandemic.
Governments beware: Walsh promises ‘different style’ as IATA leader
Former IAG chief Willie Walsh has promised a “different style” of leadership when he takes over from Alexandre de Juniac as the director general of IATA in April 2021 – particularly when it comes to working with governments.
‘When the house is on fire, you don’t pontificate’: IATA chief
IATA is working full-out to secure further government financial support for struggling airlines, alongside the introduction of Covid-19 testing regimes to reopen borders, Alexandre de Juniac explained in his final AGM as IATA director general today.
IATA deepens airline net loss forecast for 2020 to $118bn
IATA now expects the global airline industry to record a net loss of $118 billion in 2020, some $34 billion deeper than the figure it projected in June.
A year in headlines: IATA grapples with airline industry’s gravest crisis
In this timeline, we recall some of industry body’s key moments from an unprecedented period for airlines and the wider travel sector
Alaska to swap Airbus A320s for Boeing 737 Max
Alaska Airlines will sell 10 of its Airbus A320s, shifting to 13 more-fuel-efficient leased Boeing 737-9 Max aircraft which will be delivered from the end of 2021 through 2022.
Flexibility on airport slots should be extended to summer 2021: IATA
The suspension of the 80:20 ‘use it or lose it’ rule on slots should be extended into the 2021 summer season and possibly beyond, in the view of IATA’s head of worldwide airport slots Lara Maughan.
IATA to launch health passport in push to reopen international travel
IATA is close to launching a digital health passport that it believes will aid the reopening of borders to international travel through the secure sharing of information on Covid-19 testing and vaccinations.
Women have 14% of top airline jobs in slow trend towards parity
FlightGlobal’s survey of the crisis-hit airline industry reveals progress has been made on improving the C-suite gender balance over the past 12 months – but from a low base
Delta and WestJet withdraw joint venture application
Delta Air Lines and Canada’s WestJet have withdrawn their application for a transborder joint venture saying the conditions imposed by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) for antitrust immunity (ATI) approval are “arbitrary and capricious”.
Delta and Aeromexico see recovery in transborder flights
Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico plan to operate nearly the same amount of capacity for transborder flights in December as they did during the same month of 2019.
Crisis CO2 levels highlight scale of airline challenge: IATA sustainability chief
The huge reduction in emissions from commercial airlines in 2020 paradoxically highlights the scale of the challenge ahead for the industry to meet its sustainability targets, according to IATA’s director of aviation environment, Michael Gill.
Eviation Alice fire involved lithium-ion batteries which ignited after hours of powerplant tests
A January blaze that severely damaged Eviation’s Alice prototype ignited after hours of powerplant testing, involved lithium-ion batteries and forced the aircraft’s three occupants to evacuate, according to detail contained in fire incident reports.
XTI teams up with VerdeGo for unmanned autonomous VTOL
XTI Aircraft has teamed up with VerdeGo Aero to build the TriFan 200, an unmanned, autonomous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft.
American axes change fees on long-haul international travel
American Airlines has become the first major US carrier to eliminate change fees on many long-haul international fares, matching its earlier policy change on domestic trips as customers continue to stay away from air travel due to restrictions and public health warnings.
Southwest expects passengers will accept re-certificated Boeing 737 Max
Southwest Airlines expects there will be a “minority” of passengers who will opt not to travel on the newly re-certificated Boeing 737 Max due to ongoing fears about the aircraft’s safety.
Pilot, leader, proud Metis woman, Teara Fraser
Teara Fraser, founder and chief executive of the first indigenous-woman-owned airline, tells the story of how earning her wings helped her connect to the land of her ancestors
Questions persist after 737 Max recertification
The grounding of Boeing 737 Max aircraft highlighted doubts about the effectiveness of US Federal Aviation Administration oversight. The FAA’s end of the Max flight ban on 18 November leaves families of Max crash victims unsatisfied and Congress trying to pass aircraft certification reform.
US pilot unions satisfied with Boeing 737 Max improvements
US pilot unions say they are satisfied with the improvements to the Boeing 737 Max that led the Federal Aviation Administration to unground the aircraft and open a path for it to return to the airlines’ respective operating fleets.
FAA’s Dickson suspects Canada, Brazil and Europe will clear Boeing 737 Max within days
Aviation regulators in Brazil, Europe and Canada could within days follow the Federal Aviation Administration’s lead in lifting the Boeing 737 Max’s grounding, says FAA chief Steve Dickson.
FAA chief vouches for safety of Boeing 737 Max, cites ongoing pilot-training concern
Federal Aviation Administration chief Steve Dickson insists Boeing’s 737 Max has been made safe but concedes flaws in the process by which the Max was initially certificated.
Delta to continue blocking middle seats through March
Delta Air Lines will continue to block middle seats in its economy class through the first quarter of next year, the only major carrier in North America to do so.
In clearing Boeing’s 737 Max, FAA eyes 737NG updates
The Federal Aviation Administration may require Boeing 737NG flight manuals to include updates now required for 737 Max manuals.
Airlines gear up to return Boeing 737 Max into fleet
American Airlines will lead the way in bringing the newly re-certificated Boeing 737 Max aircraft back into its schedule after the Federal Aviation Administration gave the jet the green light to start flying again.
How Boeing 737 Max flight computers now handle angle-of-attack failures
The Federal Aviation Administration has provided more insight into how updated flight computers on Boeing’s 737 Max respond to angle-of-attack (AoA) indicator failures.
Canada’s 737 Max certification coming ‘soon’ but with different requirements
Canada’s transport minister has signaled his country will “soon” follow the USA in certificating the Boeing 737 Max.
Boeing 737 Max cleared to fly again after 20-month grounding
The Federal Aviation Administration has cleared the Boeing 737 Max to fly, a move coming 20 months after regulators grounded the jet following two crashes that killed 346 people.
US-UK air services pact gives US cargo operators additional rights
The air services agreement signed by the US and the UK provides US cargo operators new rights that they did not have in the previous agreement with the European Union.
American, British Airways launch pre-departure coronavirus testing programme
American Airlines and British Airways will collaborate to launch pre-departure free coronavirus testing on some flights between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Kratos upgrades mixed-reality helicopter trainer to simulate aerial assaults
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has launched a new upgrade to its mixed-reality helicopter aircrew training system.
Pandemic drives cargo yields higher amid demand for cargo jets: Boeing report
The air cargo segment has been a rare beneficiary, with e-commerce sales and scarcity of widebody passenger jets driving up cargo yields and demand for cargo jets.
Collins to develop nacelles for Boom’s in-development Overture supersonic jet
Collins Aerospace is the latest supplier to join up with Boom Supersonic, having signed an agreement to help develop nacelles and other structures for Boom’s conceptual ultra-fast airliner Overture.
Boeing 737 Max to be inspected for foreign object debris prior to service return
All Boeing 737 Max will be inspected for foreign object debris (FOD) prior to returning to revenue service, according to Boeing.
United launches free coronavirus tests ahead of flights to London
United Airlines has begun offering free coronavirus tests for customers travelling from the carrier’s New York-area hub to London.
DOT clears Aer Lingus’ entry into transatlantic joint venture
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has tentatively approved Aer Lingus’ entry to an existing joint business that includes American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia and Finnair.
US Navy orders second batch of TH-73A training helicopters from Leonardo
The US Navy has awarded Leonardo a $171 million firm-fixed price contract for 36 more examples of the TH-73A trainer helicopter.
Hawaiian Airlines’ frequent travellers can redeem miles for Covid test
Hawaiian Airlines says that frequent fliers can redeem air miles to pay for a coronavirus test that would allow them to bypass the state’s 14-day mandatory quarantine.
JetBlue will stop blocking middle seats in January
JetBlue Airways is the latest US carrier to announce plans to unblock middle seats, citing research showing passengers face a low risk of catching coronavirus on an aircraft.
American eyes 737 Max delivery deferrals
American Airlines expects to defer Boeing 737 Max deliveries in the coming years but still anticipates acquiring some new Max from Boeing this year.
US airlines expect nearly 40% Thanksgiving air travel slump
US airlines trade group Airlines for America (A4A) expects 39% fewer passengers during this year’s Thanksgiving holiday period which will be characterized by markedly different travel patterns as the country is experiencing a widespread third wave of coronavirus infections.
Variety of Covid-19 entry requirements baffles US travellers
US airline customers tend to get confused about region-by-region and state-by-state Covid-19 entry requirements when searching for flights to leisure destinations, often leading them to take the path of least resistance and book flights to Florida beaches, American Airlines’ chief revenue officer Vasu Raja has observed.
JetBlue chief views 2021 as ‘perfect time’ for London launch
JetBlue Airways plans to launch transatlantic services in the second half of 2021 amid what it expects to be a resurgence in demand for air travel, according to the airline’s chief executive Robin Hayes.
Embraer cuts jobs, restructures and lays out recovery plan as losses mount
Embraer continues restructuring its operation and cutting costs as it aims to return to growth after 2021.
United Airlines returns to New York’s JFK airport
United Airlines will return to New York’s John F Kennedy International airport in early 2021 with flights to the US West Coast, aiming to benefit from new trends in travel following the coronavirus crisis.
Max cancellations inch up in October as Boeing lands no new orders
In October, Boeing lost another 12 orders for the 737 and received no new commitments for any commercial aircraft type, while deliveries inched up to 13 jets.
FAA to complete 737 Max review in ‘coming days’
The Federal Aviation Administration expects “in the coming days” to complete its review of Boeing’s changes to the 737 Max, signaling it may soon clear the Max to fly.
Northrop, Boeing AEW&C work demonstrates open mission system potential
Northrop Grumman and Boeing have demonstrated an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar optimised as an open mission system connecting with an airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system in recent ground and flight tests.
Air Lease removed 14 more 737 Max from its order commitments in Q3
Aircraft lessor and top Boeing customer Air Lease slashed its 737 Max order book by 14 aircraft in the third quarter, bringing its year-to-date cancellations of the type to 19.
Promise of Covid vaccine sends aerospace stocks soaring on 9 November
Aerospace stocks surged on 9 November following news about a promising coronavirus vaccine under development by pharmaceutical company Pfizer.
Air Lease execs doubt Boeing might soon launch new jet
Air Lease executive chair Steven Udvar-Hazy doubts Boeing is anywhere close to launching a new commercial aircraft programme, countering recent media reports suggesting otherwise.
EU strikes back in subsidy dispute with 15% duty on Boeing jets
Boeing aircraft imported to the European Union are to carry a 15% tariff after European regulators imposed their own countermeasures in the long-running transatlantic subsidies dispute.
Canada supports essential air service in Yukon
The government of Canada has signed a new agreement to support essential air services to remote communities in the far-northwestern province of Yukon.
Sunwing restarts operations after 230 days
Canada’s Sunwing Airlines began flying last week after 230 days during which the holiday specialist had grounded its fleet in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Air Canada reports Q3 loss, defers aircraft deliveries
Air Canada reported another quarterly loss as it continues to shrink its fleet and defer aircraft deliveries amid a slow recovery hindered by ongoing strict travel restrictions in the country.
United adds 1,400 flights ahead of the US Thanksgiving holiday
United Airlines is adding 1,400 flights ahead of the all-important Thanksgiving holiday weekend as US leisure travellers prepare to visit family and friends in other parts of the country, many for the first time since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.
Minicucci to succeed Tilden as Alaska chief executive next year
Alaska Air Group chief executive Brad Tilden is to step down from the role on 31 March 2021 to be succeeded by Alaska Airlines’ president and long-time company veteran Ben Minicucci.
Positive vaccine news comes just as airline industry needed it the most
Carriers in the northern hemisphere are heading into a winter season that is likely to be bleaker than even their worst pre-pandemic nightmares could have imagined.
Canada considers financial aid for aviation industry
The government of Canada has said it is considering financial aid for that country’s aerospace industry, as the coronavirus crisis drags on.
US Air Force receives first two Sikorsky HH-60W combat rescue helicopters
The US Air Force received its first pair of Sikorsky HH-60W combat rescue helicopters at Moody AFB on 5 November.
Triumph completed G650 wing work sale to Gulfstream in August
Aerospace company Triumph Group confirms that in August it completed a planned sale of G650 wing work Gulfstream for proceeds of $52 million.
Hot pursuit: car chase at Van Nuys airport disrupts operations
A car breached security at Los Angeles-area Van Nuys airport, leading police on a high-speed car chase across a runway, several taxiways, the apron and through the field’s perimeter fence before the driver surrendered.
Southwest plans to furlough 42 workers after cost-cutting talks break down
Southwest Airlines has warned a group of employees that their jobs are in danger after talks with the workers’ union about cost-cutting measures across the company broke down.
Former SpaceX, Tesla engineer to lead Boeing’s software team
Boeing has hired a former SpaceX and Tesla executive with autonomous technology experience to lead its software development team.
Unusual airworthiness concerns arise for pandemic-struck fleets
US and European safety regulators are having to address a number of potential airworthiness concerns arising from the unusual circumstances created by the coronavirus pandemic, as aircraft are retrieved from storage or treated in the course of operations.
Lawsuit seeks to force release of FAA’s 737 Max ‘ungrounding’ documents
A US advocacy group has asked a federal judge to order the Federal Aviation Administration to release some 100 documents related to the agency’s pending re-certification of the Boeing 737 Max.
UK fraud investigators probe Bombardier over Garuda Indonesia deals
UK fraud investigators are probing aircraft manufacturer Bombardier over contracts relating to Asian carrier Garuda Indonesia.
Bombardier plans restructuring as it transitions to aviation-only company
Bombardier has broadly laid out a plan to return to profitability in the coming years as a standalone aviation company that will deliver 100 to 120 business jets annually.
Aero engine makers shrink to survive, putting development projects in doubt
Just how significantly the coronavirus pandemic has hammered aircraft engine makers came starkly into view in recent weeks, when several top manufacturers disclosed third-quarter results. Whether this will affect future disruptive initiatives remains to be seen
Airline passenger demand ‘hit wall’ in September: IATA
Weak international travel demand continued to weigh heavily on the airline industry’s performance in September, according to the latest data from IATA.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: November 2020 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, airport passenger throughput, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Spirit AeroSystems aims for 10-monthly 737 rate in early 2021
Spirit AeroSystems intends to produce 737 fuselages at a rate of 10 monthly starting in January 2021 – a rate that would allow the company to burn down its inventory of finished fuselages.
Spirit AeroSystems reports $156m Q3 loss
Wichita-based aerostructures manufacturer Spirit AeroSystems lost $156 million in the third quarter of 2020 amid tumbling revenue resulting from the dual pressures of the pandemic and Boeing 737 Max grounding.
Air Canada Rouge relaunches with Cancun flight
Air Canada Rouge on 2 November flew passengers from Toronto to Cancun, Mexico, marking the first time it has operated since the start of the coronavirus pandemic travel downturn in March.
American expands pre-flight testing programme
American Airlines has expanded its pre-flight coronavirus testing programme, hoping to inspire customers’ confidence to return to air travel.
Trump or Biden: How might aerospace fare?
How might a Joe Biden presidency impact the aerospace sector differently than another four years with President Donald Trump in the White House?
Canadian National Defence orders three King Air 350ERs for special ops recon
The Canadian Department of National Defence awarded L3Harris Technologies a firm-fixed price contract of an undisclosed amount to modify three King Air 350ERs into intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft for the country’s special operations forces.
ATSG turns Q3 profit as it steps up 767 freighter deployments
Air Transport Services Group made an operating profit of $74 million in the third quarter, up 80% year on year, as it deployed seven Boeing 767 freighters to leasing customers to capitalise on the demand for cargo aircraft amid the pandemic.
Boeing lands contract for two more JASDF KC-46s
Boeing has secured a contract for the third and fourth KC-46 aerial tankers for the Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF).
Cargo pilots’ union blasts UPS for inadequate coronavirus protections
The head of the Independent Pilots Association, the union representing pilots at international cargo carrier UPS Airlines, says that the coronavirus could have a “significant impact” on the airline’s operations and sharply criticises the company for neglecting to keep cockpit crew safe from the highly-contagious virus.
Delta and its pilot union reach agreement to avoid furloughs
Delta Air Lines has reached a tentative deal with its pilot union to avoid furloughs at the Atlanta-based carrier until 2022.
Textron Aviation posts Q3 loss but aims to turn profitable in Q4
Textron Aviation lost $29 million in the third-quarter, but executives predict the aircraft manufacturer will regain profitability in the final quarter of 2020.
Lockheed Martin to support JASSM-ER launch demonstrations from cargo aircraft
The US Air Force awarded Lockheed Martin a $25 million contract to help with the service’s Palletized Munitions Experimentation Campaign, an effort to test the feasibility of launching cruise missiles from the back of cargo aircraft.
Spirit Airlines reports Q3 loss, anticipates more end-of-year travel
Spirit Airlines reports lower third-quarter results and is preparing for a significant upturn as leisure travellers look to the end-of-year holidays to begin to alleviate their pent-up demand for cheap, safe travel to visit family and friends.
Boeing CEO downplays 737 production-site shift, office space cuts coming
Boeing’s chief executive has downplayed the likelihood that the company might move 737 manufacturing from Renton to Everett as part of a broader corporate-wide restructuring.
Boeing takes $67m loss on KC-46 tanker, but sees reason for optimism
Boeing has taken another multimillion dollar charge on the KC-46A Pegasus in-flight refueling tanker, but believes the programme is beginning to “clear the hurdle” in terms of how the US Air Force (USAF) views its manufacturing performance.
Allegiant Q3 results up as the airline is “flirting with break-even”
Allegiant Travel Company, the parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air, is “flirting with break-even” as point-to-point leisure travel rebounds faster than other parts of the aviation industry after it came to a near-standstill earlier this year.
Kalitta to be launch operator of 777-300ERSF converted freighter
Kalitta Air will be the first airline to operate the Boeing 777-300ERSF, a converted freighter being developed by lessor GECAS and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
Boeing assessing technologies for next commercial jet: CEO
Boeing continues working toward development of a new commercial aircraft, though chief executive David Calhoun has disclosed few details.
Boeing revises 2021 737 Max delivery pace, reflecting depressed demand
The company now anticipates that next year it will deliver about half of the 450 Max it stockpiled amid the type’s grounding, chief financial officer Greg Smith says on 28 October.
Southwest’s O’Hare service to take flight on Valentine’s Day
Southwest Airlines will commence operating flights for its new Chicago O’Hare service on 14 February, with 20 total departures to Nashville, Baltimore/Washington International, Denver, Dallas Love Field and Phoenix.
Boeing sticks to 2022 777X delivery goal as CEO warns of schedule ‘risk’
Though Boeing continues working toward delivering the first 777-9 in 2022, the company’s chief executive has warned about potential further changes to the timeline.
Boeing sees nine-month losses balloon to $3.5 billion
Boeing lost $466 million in the third quarter of 2020, bringing the company’s losses in the first nine months of 2020 to $3.5 billion.
Third-quarter profits tumble at GE Aviation on sliding engine sales and aftermarket work
GE Aviation saw third-quarter operating profit plunge by 79% year on year, to $356 million, amid tumbling demand for aircraft engines and aftermarket services.
Hawaiian posts $97m Q3 loss, details 787 delivery delays
Hawaiian Airlines posted a $97 million loss in the third quarter, as the state’s coronavirus-driven quarantine requirements hampered air travel demand – and the airline’s recovery.
More aircraft production rate cuts coming? Perhaps, analysts say
Some financial analysts suspect airframers might further cut aircraft production in 2021 owing to the depth of the pandemic-driven aerospace downturn.
JetBlue reports sharply lower Q3 but sees leisure rebound
JetBlue Airways reported sharply declining third-quarter financial results but remains optimistic that the coming weeks will bring recovery as customers begin planning travel for the end-of-year holiday season.
P&W ships more commercial engines in Q3, eyes lower-cost production in Asheville
Pratt & Whitney shipped 114 large commercial aircraft engines in the third quarter of 2020, up slightly from the previous period.
Airline cash burn to continue throughout 2021: IATA
Airlines will struggle to cut unit costs sufficiently to prevent cash burn continuing throughout 2021, based on current demand assumptions, according to IATA.
Raytheon turns third-quarter profit amid layoffs and depressed aftermarket demand
Raytheon Technologies’ commercial aerospace businesses continued to struggle in the third quarter of 2020, though the company’s Collins Aerospace unit did swing to an operating profit.
China to sanction Boeing Defense, Raytheon and Lockheed Martin over Taiwan weapons sale
China plans to sanction Boeing Defense, Raytheon and Lockheed Martin over a possible $1.8 billion Foreign Military Sales package for Taiwan.
De Havilland delivers another two Dash 8-400s to Ethiopian
De Havilland Canada has delivered another two Dash 8-400s to Ethiopian Airlines, bringing to 30 the number of the turboprops received by Ethiopian and its affiliates.
Southwest flirts with Airbus in fleet renewal
Southwest Airlines, an all-Boeing carrier since its inception almost 50 years ago, is again flirting with the idea buying aircraft from a competing airframer.
American Eagle ERJ-145 damaged in Bahamas excursion
Investigators in the Bahamas are probing a runway excursion involving an American Eagle service from Miami which badly damaged the aircraft.
US DOT approves WestJet-Delta transborder joint venture
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has tentatively approved a joint venture application from Delta Air Lines and Canada’s WestJet for transborder travel, under certain conditions.
United extends point-to-point flights to Florida
In an effort to capture more of the leisure travel market while keeping its fleet active, United Airlines will extend its offering of point-to-point connections between the Northeast and Midwest USA to Florida beyond the winter holiday season.
Airbus Mobile plant delivers first US-built A220, to Delta
Airbus has delivered the first US-built A220, handing over an A220-300 to Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines.
Southwest reports record loss, addresses fleet changes and travel rebound
Southwest Airlines, the last of the four major US airlines to report third-quarter results, posted a record loss for the period but remains optimistic that the worst of the downturn has passed and that demand is rebounding.
Alberta to ease quarantine requirements to passengers arriving in Calgary
Canada has taken the first tentative steps of easing its coronavirus quarantine rules, rolling out a programme aimed at allowing air passengers arriving in Calgary to sidestep quarantine requirements.
American posts $2.4bn loss in Q3, retires all A330s
American Airlines reported a staggering third-quarter loss and announced additional fleet retirements as it joins industry peers in lurching toward a new normal following the shock of the coronavirus pandemic.
Global 5000 maintenance revision aims to avert roll-control reversal
Canada’s safety regulator has drawn attention to new maintenance instructions intended to avoid possible misinstallation of roll-control systems for Bombardier Global 5000 and 6000 business jets.
Hawaiian reinstates flights to Boston, New York
Hawaiian Airlines will reinstate its flights to the northeast USA as the weather there turns cold and potential customers who have refrained from travelling due to the coronavirus may be thinking of a winter getaway.
Boeing study concludes disinfectants kill Covid-19 virus on cabin surfaces
A joint study by Boeing and the University of Arizona found that disinfectants already used on aircraft are successful in killing viruses like the bug causing Covid-19.
Pratt & Whitney contracted to study upgrading F135 engine
Pratt & Whitney was awarded a $1.5 million contract by the F-35 Joint Program Office to study engine upgrade requirements for Block 4.2 and later iterations of the stealth fighter.
Nationalise Air Canada? Union floats idea of returning to government ownership
A Canadian union has floated the idea of re-nationalising legacy carrier Air Canada in light of the “disheartening impact” of the coronavirus pandemic and the government’s lack of support for the industry.
Air Canada will fly all-business-class A319s to warm-weather cities this winter
Air Canada will deploy all-business-class configured Airbus A319s on selected scheduled routes this winter as it searches for passengers after the coronavirus decimated Canada’s air transport industry.
Boeing will save cash by consolidating 787 in South Carolina, but how much?
Boeing’s plan to shift all 787 production to South Carolina will indeed save cash, but savings will be a relative small percent of the programme’s total expense, financial analyst say.
Boeing to co-develop supersonic missile demonstrator for F/A-18 Super Hornet
Boeing and the US Navy plan to co-develop a supersonic land and sea strike missile to be carried aboard the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter.
US Marine Corps retires last Bell AH-1W Super Cobra
The US Marine Corps has officially retired the Bell AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopter from its fleet, after more than 34 years of service.
Inmarsat and Hughes partner to offer in GX+ satellite connectivity product
Satellite communications providers Inmarsat and Hughes Network Systems have partnered to launch an in-flight connectivity product for North American airlines.
Icelandair plans for 30% capacity cut in summer 2021 schedule
Icelandair is expecting to operate a summer 2021 schedule with capacity down by 25-30% compared with last year.
US start-up GlobalX tentatively signs for Vallair A321 freighters
US company Global Crossing Airlines is intending to lease 10 converted Airbus A321 freighters from the asset management specialist Vallair, the launch customer for the modification.
Automated A220 thrust-exceedance check aids engine shutdown probe
Airbus and Pratt & Whitney have developed an update to A220 health-management units to detect whether thrust thresholds on the type are being exceeded and, if so, automatically transmit a report.
5GAT first flight scheduled for October
The US Department of Defense’s Office of Operational Test and Evaluation plans to test fly its Fifth-Generation Aerial Target prototype for the first time in October at Dugway Proving Ground in Utah.
Crisis means American Airlines ‘feels like start-up company’
The impact of the coronavirus crisis means American Airlines sometimes feels more like ”a $2-3 billion start-up company” than one of the world’s largest and longest-established operators, according Rhett Workman, the carrier’s managing director for Europe and Asia-Pacific.
US TSA screens more than 1m passengers for first time since March
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened more than 1 million passengers in one day for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic brought air travel to a near standstill earlier this year.
Boeing bolsters leadership council with nine new executives
Boeing has beefed up its executive council with several new executives, a move the company says brings more diversity, perspective and expertise to a top leadership panel.
Transat down to 160 flight attendants in November: union
Canada’s Air Transat will be laying off more flight attendants and closing a west-coast base in the coming weeks as the coronavirus continues to take its toll on the country’s air transport industry, the Canadian union for public employees (CUPE) says.
Northrop Grumman APG-83 radar declared operational for National Guard F-16s
The US Air Force has declared that the Northrop Grumman APG-83 scalable agile beam radar has met full operational readiness for use on the Air National Guard’s Lockheed Martin F-16s.
FAA finalises new commercial spaceflight rules
The US Federal Aviation Administration has finalised new rules it says streamline oversight of commercial spaceflight, enabling continued expansion of the commercial space industry.
Air Canada chief Rovinescu to retire in early 2021
Long-standing Air Canada chief executive Calin Rovinescu is to retire in February and will be replaced by his deputy and chief financial officer Michael Rousseau.
Why Boeing might shift where it manufactures jets
Amid the troubles of 2020, Boeing’s strategy for returning to past heights remains unclear, with open questions about the company’s product strategy and future production footprint.
Hawaii begins virus testing to boost air travel
Hawaii starting on 15 October will allow travellers to submit negative coronavirus test results 72 hours in advance of their flights to bypass its ongoing quarantine for new arrivals to the islands, hoping to boost tourism after months of nearly non-existent air travel.
United’s recovery plan built around late 2021 arrival of vaccine
United Airlines says it will have enough liquidity to not just survive the “difficult” 12-15 months ahead but to be the first among its network peers to return to positive cash flow when an effective Covid-19 vaccine becomes widely available.
Aerion teams up with Electra.Aero
Aerion Supersonic has teamed up with Electra.Aero to together develop what they call a “global mobility ecosystem”.
US Army’s Future Affordable Turbine Engine effort to finish by end of 2020
The US Army’s Future Affordable Turbine Engine (FATE) programme, an effort to come up with engine performance enhancing technologies, is nearing completion and should be wrapped up by the end of 2020.
AeroVironment and Viasat to aim to improve radio encryption for Puma AE
Up against increasingly sophisticated electronic warfare threats from countries such as Russia and China, drone maker AeroVironment and satellite communications company Viasat are partnering to develop better encrypted radio communications for the Puma AE reconnaissance unmanned air vehicle.
EmbraerX launches first urban air mobility project, Eve
EmbraerX, the Brazilian airframer’s innovation subsidiary, has spun off its first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) project, called Eve.
Wet-lease operator SmartLynx to introduce A321 freighters
Wet-lease and charter specialist SmartLynx’s Maltese division is to lease a pair of Airbus A321s which have been converted to freighters.
Why Embraer thinks regional travel – and regional jets – will emerge stronger
Embraer expects regional airports and smaller passenger aircraft will emerge on top from the coronavirus pandemic due to population shifts away from big cities.
How domestic capacity return varies across key markets
Domestic markets have been a salvation for many airlines as the global pandemic continues to batter international travel.
Sikorsky Boeing SB-1 Defiant reaches 211kt
The Sikorsky Boeing SB-1 Defiant compound helicopter reached 211kt (391km/h) using about two-thirds propeller torque and engine power during a straight and level flight on 12 October.
United Airlines reports $1.8bn Q3 loss as revenue falls 78%
United Airlines reported a $1.8 billion loss for the third quarter as it restructured its operations to reflect lower demand following the near-collapse of the passenger aviation industry earlier this year.
Pratt & Whitney Canada cuts staff due to Covid downturn
Pratt & Whitney Canada has implemented more layoffs in response to the troubled state of aerospace industry.
WestJet indefinitely suspends flights to Atlantic Canada
WestJet will cease flying to numerous destinations in far eastern Canada and reduce frequencies to other cities in the region, cutting 80% of seat capacity in that part of the country.
Civil aircraft subsidies: EU fails to persuade WTO of case for higher penalties
While the European Union, in its transatlantic civil aircraft subsidy dispute, had sought World Trade Organization authorisation to impose a higher penalty than the $7.5 billion awarded to the US government, it ultimately failed to convince the WTO of its case.
StormBreaker approved for use on F-15E Strike Eagle
The US Department of Defense plans to start fielding the weapon on the US Navy’s Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet later this year, followed by the Lockheed Martin F-35 at a later, undisclosed date.
How ‘War on Terror’ UAV maker General Atomics is pivoting to great power conflict
The San Diego-based company has reacted with a flurry of new initiatives in the past couple of years intended to hold onto existing business, seize new opportunities in the near future and ultimately maintain its position as the USA’s leading maker of armed reconnaissance UAVs going into the 2030s.
Delta posts $5.4bn Q3 loss, sees bright spots
Delta Air lines reported a third quarter loss of $5.4 billion as the airline begins to regroup following a catastrophic summer brought on by the coronavirus global pandemic.
Porter pushes back restart to December
Canada’s Porter Airlines has pushed back its restart date for the sixth time as ongoing travel restrictions in Canada hamper the industry’s overall recovery in that country.
Boeing cuts 51 Max from backlog in September, with no new orders
Boeing stripped 51 737 Max from its backlog in September and received no commercial aircraft orders in the month, partly reflecting the coronavirus pandemic’s continued impact on new-aircraft demand.
EU can impose $4bn penalty in transatlantic aircraft subsidies row
European Union authorities have secured the right to impose almost $4 billion in tariffs on US imports, including aircraft, in retaliation for harm arising from US government subsidies to Boeing.
US government urges FAA to address cybersecurity risks to aircraft
The Federal Aviation Administration has not taken adequate steps to address the increasing risk of cyberattacks against commercial aircraft avionics, says a new report from the US Government Accountability Office (GAO).
Former Wizz deputy chief to lead Canadian budget carrier Flair
Canadian low-cost carrier Flair Airlines has named former Wizz Air deputy chief executive Stephen Jones to lead the company.
Subtle shifts in travel may drive long recovery: trade group
As air travel struggles to return to pre-coronavirus levels, the industry is adopting new patterns of operating that might become permanent during a prolonged recovery, the airline trade group Airlines for America (A4A) says.
Allegiant hopes its focus on underserved routes will help it beat coronavirus
Allegiant Air says that its laser-focus on underserved routes, the most popular travel days of the week and cost-conscious leisure travellers will be key to pulling itself out of the coronavirus crisis.
321 Precision Conversions completes first flight of A321 converted freighter
Oregon company 321 Precision Conversions has completed first flight of its Airbus A321-200PCF freighter.
Delta eyes potential Covid boost to regional flying
Will the coronavirus pandemic cause a long-term bump in air travel from small- and medium-size airports?
Lockheed Martin plans to buy Integration Innovation’s hypersonics portfolio
In the realm of hypersonic technologies, Integration Innovation says it specializes in thermal protection systems, propulsion, missile seeker windows and domes, ground test and evaluation facilities and services, flight test services, weather evaluation, modelling and simulation, and software development.
Southwest to begin O’Hare and Houston Intercontinental flights in 2021
Southwest Airlines in 2021 will begin flights at Chicago O’Hare International and Houston George Bush Intercontinental airports.
Spirit CEO predicts quicker recovery than larger competitors
The chief executive of Spirit Airlines suspects his carrier will recover from the coronavirus downturn faster than major US carriers, though the pace of Spirit’s long-term fleet-growth plan remains uncertain.
US Air Force aims to train pilots faster using brain electrode
In August, the US Air Force Research Laboratory 711th Human Performance Wing launched its iNeuraLS project, an effort to speed up pilot training through brain stimulation.
Hawaiian Airlines suspends Ohana by Hawaiian service
Hawaiian Airlines has said it will suspend its regional subsidiary Ohana by Hawaiian on 1 November as the carrier continues to experience economic hardship due to the coronavirus and resulting quarantine requirements.
Air Canada and Transat sharply discount takeover deal
Air Canada and Transat AT, the parent company of Air Transat, have renegotiated the terms of their planned tie-up, sharply discounting the price per share.
First Lockheed Martin F-35s loaded with ODIN hardware
For the first time, Lockheed Martin F-35s have been loaded with Operational Data Integrated Network (ODIN) hardware, an initial step in replacing the stealth fighter’s troubled support system.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: October 2020 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, airport passenger throughput, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Allegiant burned $1.3 million daily during third quarter
The parent company of Allegiant Air burned a daily average of $1.3 million in cash during the third quarter, including debt payments, rising from its daily cash burn average of $900,000 during the second quarter.
HAPSMobile Sunglider reaches 63,000ft, demos broadband transmission
The HAPSMobile Sunglider unmanned air vehicle reached an altitude of more than 60,000ft above sea level during a 20h demonstration flight on 21 and 22 September.
Air Canada 737 Max transactions garner $365 million
Air Canada has sealed sale-and-leaseback transactions for three Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft with Jackson Square Aviation and six Max 8 aircraft with Avolon for total proceeds of $365 million.
Person ‘more likely to be hit by lightning’ than catch Covid-19 in aircraft
Data suggests that an individual has a much greater chance of being hit by lightning over a 12-month period than they would of catching Covid-19 during a commercial flight, according to IATA.
Airports saw 58% drop in passengers during first half of 2020
Worldwide airport passenger numbers were down 58.4% year on year during the first half of 2020 as the pandemic weighed on travel demand, according to ACI World data released today.
Pentagon, SpaceX may demo rocket delivery of cargo in 2021
The US Transportation Command has partnered with Space Exploration Technologies Corporation to study delivering tens of thousands of kilograms worth of cargo to anywhere on Earth within about an hour using the aerospace company’s vertical landing rockets.
Boom rolls out XB-1 supersonic demonstrator, lays out Overture timeline
Boom Supersonic has publicly unveiled its XB-1 supersonic aircraft, a demonstrator Boom will use to develop a future supersonic passenger aircraft called Overture.
Pentagon funds autonomous sea barge for rotorcraft to land, refuel and rearm
The US Department of Defense (DoD) has granted a contract to Sea Machines Robotics to develop a prototype autonomous ocean barge that would serve as a floating Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP) for rotorcraft.
Qatar Airways adds new US link with San Francisco flights
Qatar Airways is to launch flights to San Francisco this December, adding the west coast city to its US network for the first time.
Alaska speeds retirement of 10 Airbus A320s
Alaska Airlines will retire 10 of the Airbus A320 aircraft it owns earlier than intended, accelerating its cost-saving transition back to the all-Boeing fleet structure it operated before acquiring Virgin America.
2015 FAA reports highlighted early concerns about self-certification programme
A trio of Federal Aviation Administration reports, written several years before two fatal 737 Max crashes, highlighted concerns about agency’s self-certification programme, describing the Boeing-FAA relationship as “contentious” and possibly needing a “reset”.
Trump halts negotiations on bill that included airline aid
Hope that lawmakers might agree to a second airline financial aid package grew dim on 6 October, after President Donald Trump called an end to negotiations, leaving thousands of furloughed aviation workers with no immediate prospect of returning to their jobs.
FAA releases 737 Max draft pilot training rules
The Federal Aviation Administration has released a draft report proposing training requirements for 737 Max pilots, another step towards the agency’s certification of the grounded jet.
FAA requires changes to 767 and 747 fuel-tank systems to prevent ignition risk
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring airlines to modify Boeing 747-400 and 767 fuel-tank monitoring systems to prevent the risk of ignition within the tanks.
US regulator orders more inspections to address 757 frame cracks
US airlines must complete additional inspections of Boeing 757 fuselage frames under a new airworthiness directive aimed at addressing frame cracking.
US Army catches ‘air-launched effect’ drones in mid-air using another UAV
The US Army for the first time caught and recovered Area-I Altius “air-launched effects” drones in midair using a quadcopter during Project Convergence exercises in August and September.
Technical description: How Gulfstream is going further with G700
In launching the programme at the NBAA convention in October 2019, the US business jet manufacturer made clear its ambition: to surpass its current G650ER flagship and take on competitors like Bombardier’s Global 7500.
Southwest to cut pay in order to avoid furloughs through 2021
Southwest Airlines will cut employee pay in order to attempt to prevent furloughs through the end of 2021.
Widebodies most affected as Boeing shaves 2% from 20-year delivery forecast
Boeing has revised downward its 20-year commercial aviation outlook – but only by a hair, predicting new-aircraft demand will accelerate in the coming years as airlines replace old jets with new.
Honeywell predicts quick business-jet industry recovery, shaves 4% from 10-year deliveries outlook
Honeywell Aerospace’s 2020 business-aviation outlook predicts the coronavirus industry downturn may only slightly dampen demand for new business jets between 2021 and 2030.
Bombardier’s Learjet 75 Liberty enters service
Bombardier’s Learjet 75 Liberty has entered service, a milestone coming 15 months after the Montreal-based company launched the updated variant.
Airbus A220-100 to evolve as ‘TwoTwenty’ corporate jet
Airbus’s corporate jet division has formally unveiled an executive version of its A220-100 twinjet, which will be able to operate across a range of up to 5,650nm (10,500km).
Airbus delivers initial two H135 helicopters to NASA
The initial pair of helicopters will be joined by a third example that is scheduled for delivery early next year.
Fourth G700 test aircraft operates maiden flight
Gulfstream has operated the maiden flight of its fourth G700 test aircraft, as the company progresses testing for the new type.
GE to perform GE9X sand-ingestion tests in 2021
GE Aviation in 2021 will kick off a GE9X test programme intended to validate the powerplant’s durability when operating in sandy, dusty conditions.
United to resume flights to more leisure destinations in November
United will resume 40 international routes in November, including many to leisure and beach destinations like Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Emirates fined over JetBlue codeshare flights in Iranian airspace
Middle Eastern carrier Emirates is set to be fined by the US Department of Transportation for operating services through Iranian airspace while carrying a codeshare with US budget operator JetBlue Airways.
Airbus and Boeing still hold nearly 200 undelivered jets, excluding 737 Max
Airbus and Boeing are still sitting on large fleets of produced but undelivered commercial jets, reflecting the continued slow pace of aircraft hand-offs amid what could be called the aerospace industry’s most-severe downturn.
Safran Cabin to close Bellingham, Washington facility
Safran Cabin will close its Bellingham, Washington facility next year in response to the virus-driven aerospace industry slump.
United, American furlough 32,000 workers
United Airlines and American Airlines have furloughed 32,000 employees after federal government financial aid ran out and was not extended.
Boeing will move all 787 production to South Carolina, eyeing mid-2021 transition
Boeing confirms it will consolidate 787 production at its site in North Charleston, South Carolina and end production of the popular twin-engined widebody in Everett, Washington.
AeroVironment unveils anti-armour Switchblade 600 loitering munition
After months of public teases, AeroVironment has unveiled its Switchblade 600, a loitering munition with a larger, anti-armour warhead.
IATA calls on US jurisdictions to ditch quarantines
Aviation trade group IATA has called on US jurisdictions to eliminate quarantine requirements imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, advocating instead for systematic pre-departure testing protocols.
RSAF KC-135Rs find new home with US firm Meta Aerospace
Defence services provider Meta Aerospace confirms that it has obtained four Boeing KC-135R tankers that previously served with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).
USAF doubles MQ-9A’s Hellfire missile payload
The General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-9A Reaper unmanned air vehicle (UAV) has made a sortie with double the number of Lockheed Martin AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, greatly improving its combat persistence.
Report: Boeing to move all 787 production to South Carolina
Boeing declines to confirm a report that it has decided to end 787 production in Everett and consolidate that work at its other 787 manufacturing site in North Charleston, South Carolina.
Hawaiian resumes flights to US mainland and Japan
Hawaiian Airlines is restarting service to 10 US mainland destinations and Tokyo following the state of Hawaii’s partial reopening.
US aviation industry braces for furloughs as relief package expires
The US aviation industry is preparing for thousands of layoffs as government financial aid to protect workers’ salaries expires in the coming hours.
FAA’s Dickson flies Max, declares ‘I like what I saw’
Federal Aviation Administration chief Steve Dickson piloted a Boeing 737 Max on 30 September, declaring afterward that the experience made him “comfortable” with the Max’s systems, but insisting his agency will certificate the jet only when convinced it is safe.
US Marine Corps F-35B and KC-130J collide and crash
A US Marine Corps Lockheed Martin F-35B stealth fighter and KC-130J tanker collided and crashed during a refuelling exercise in Southern California on 29 September.
FAA administrator Dickson in Seattle for Max training ahead of 30 September flight
Federal Aviation Administration chief Steve Dickson arrived in Seattle on 29 September and will complete new 737 Max pilot training requirements before flying the Max on 30 September.
No commitment on final date, but Bell 525 certification tests ‘finishing’
Certification tests of the Bell 525 Relentless “are finishing” says Bell, but the date when the super-medium, twin-engined helicopter will cross the finish line remains undisclosed.
Spirit terminates Asco acquisition plan, warns of Bombardier deal fallout
Spirit AeroSystems has terminated its planned $420 million acquisition of aerospace component maker Asco, while warning it may face lawsuits related to a now-uncertain plan to acquire Bombardier’s aerospace businesses.
New digital engineering technologies said to deliver up to 30% cost savings
Digital-engineering and -manufacturing processes have already revolutionized how aerospace products are designed and built.
US House bill offers airlines $25bn in additional coronavirus relief
The US House of Representatives is considering an additional coronavirus relief package that would extend the payroll support programme (PSP) for aviation workers through March 2021.
Russian domestic traffic tops pre-crisis levels in August
Fresh data published by airline association IATA shows passenger traffic in the Russian market surpassed 2019 levels, but that it was a far from uniform picture of improvement across key domestic markets.
IATA lowers 2020 passenger traffic hopes on stalled recovery
Airline trade body IATA has lowered its expectations for global passenger traffic this year amid a plateauing in the recovery and bleaker forward booking indicators.
US bill details certification and training upheaval in 737 Max’s wake
US legislators have unveiled a proposed overhaul of aircraft certification intended to reform and reinforce the process in the aftermath of the fatal accidents involving the Boeing 737 Max.
MQ-Next should include both expendable and high-end UAVs: Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is proposing a range of unmanned air vehicle options for the US Air Force’s MQ-Next development programme, including a type that the company calls “expendable”.
Analysts warn of Boeing talent drain, question company’s long-term strategy
A cadre of departing mid-level Boeing staff has raised questions about whether the company could find itself short of critical expertise needed to advance future commercial aircraft programmes, say aerospace experts.
United pilots agree to belt-tightening measures to avoid furloughs
United Airlines’ pilots have agreed to measures, including a reduction in flight hours, that would avoid 2,850 furloughs that had been scheduled to begin later this week.
Touchdown normal before Omni 767’s main-gear collapse
Romanian investigators have disclosed that the Boeing 767-300ER which suffered a landing-gear collapse at Bucharest Baneasa airport did not touch down abnormally before the accident.
FAA certificates 777X’s GE9X powerplants
The Federal Aviation Administration has certificated GE Aviation’s 105,000lb-thrust (467kN) GE9X turbofan, a milestone coming as Boeing continues working toward achieving certification for its GE9X-powered 777-9.
Dash 8-400 service update aims to stem cowl-door losses
Operators of De Havilland Aircraft Dash 8-400 turboprops are being urged to pay attention to a new maintenance task intended to avoid incidents of engine cowl doors separating from the aircraft on take-off.
First FWSAR C295 touches down in Canada
Canada’s first Airbus Defence & Space C295 search and rescue (SAR) aircraft has arrived at Canadian Force’s Base Comox, in British Columbia.
Delta to retire aircraft and take up to $2.5b charge
Delta Air Lines will retire more aircraft earlier than planned in an effort to streamline its fleet and cut costs as the air travel industry recovers from the shock of the coronavirus pandemic.
Dreamlifter pilots did not cross-check navigation before wrong-airport landing
Seven years after the incident, US investigators have disclosed the awkward radio exchange which underlined that a Boeing ‘Dreamlifter’ crew had unintentionally landed at the wrong Wichita airport.
Alphabet’s Wing division advances unmanned air traffic system
Various companies have in recent years been working to develop underlying air traffic technologies intended to support the expected rapid expansion of the commercial unmanned urban air mobility (UAM) industry.
Boeing intends software update to address 787 localiser capture failures
Boeing is developing updated software for 787s to correct an erroneous localiser mode behaviour during ILS approaches.
Vaccine key to airline recovery: United’s Munoz
United Airlines executive chairman Oscar Munoz says that a vaccine which will protect travellers against the coronavirus will be key to the industry’s recovery.
Second US airline aid package faces ‘tough, tough road’: JetBlue exec
A second tranche of financial aid for US airlines is integral for the health of the industry, New York-based JetBlue Airways president and chief operations officer Joanna Geraghty says.
United introduces coronavirus testing for Hawaii-bound customers
United Airlines will introduce coronavirus testing for passengers in an effort to get customers back in aircraft as the global coronavirus crisis drags on.
Neste and Shell team up to produce sustainable aviation fuel
Finnish sustainable aviation fuel supplier Neste is teaming up with petroleum heavyweight Royal Dutch Shell to “significantly increase” the supply and availability of the lower-emissions fuel for the commercial aviation industry starting in October.
UK pilots seek assurance on sensor and trim aspects of 737 Max redesign
UK cockpit crew representatives are seeking assurances on several aspects of the Boeing 737 Max’s redesign, including scenarios relating to the angle-of-attack sensors and the potential need for two pilots to turn the trim wheel if the jet is out of trim.
Where the airline industry was when the music stopped
Another year of strong profit and traffic growth in 2019 for leading carriers illustrates the highs the industry had reached before the coronavirus pandemic, but offered no warning of the crisis to come that has pushed airlines to the brink.
CDB Aviation agrees Max and Dreamliner SLBs with United Airlines
CDB Aviation has agreed to purchase and lease back 12 new aircraft from US carrier United Airlines.
American Airlines pilots to begin 737 Max training in November
American Airlines’ pilots will begin 737 Max “special training” in November in preparation for the jet’s return to service, with the company’s entire complement of 737 pilots expected to complete the reviews by January 2021.
US Army flies CH-47 with GE Aviation T408 engine
GE’s T408 produces 7,500hp (5,593kW), about 56% more than the Honeywell T55 now used on the CH-47.
US Army researches running the MQ-1C Gray Eagle on ‘any type of fuel’
The US Army Research Laboratory awarded the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign an $8 million, four-year contract to help develop new diesel-engine ignition technologies intended to allow unmanned air vehicles, including General Atomics MQ-1C Gray Eagles, to run on “any type of fuel”.
Hydrogen-powered airliners unlikely in near term: Boeing exec
Boeing’s top product developer doubts hydrogen-powered airliners will be viable in the near future due to technical and regulatory hurdles and remaining technological uncertainty.
Spirit predicts Asco purchase will terminate, describes Bombardier buy as uncertain
Spirit AeroSystems expects not to close its planned $420 million acquisition of Belgium company Asco and has raised uncertainty about closing a planned $500 million purchase of Bombardier’s commercial aviation businesses.
US rule on early 777 fuel-tank inerting overrides foreign carriers’ objections
US safety regulators have adopted a controversial rule aimed at modifying early Boeing 777s to reduce the risk of a centre fuel-tank explosion, having dismissed multiple objections by foreign operators of the type.
US lawmakers propose additional $29bn in airline support for staff
Two US senators have introduced a bill that would provide airlines with another $28.8 billion in funds earmarked for employee expenses incurred through March 2021.
Boeing lays off pilot group that supports service entry of new aircraft types
Boeing is laying off a group of seven “line-assist instructor pilots” whose work includes helping airlines bring into their fleets aircraft types that those airlines have not previously operated.
Can passengers evacuate jets in 90sec? US government report urges FAA to find out
Citing changed passenger demographics and behavior, as well as more seats in aircraft and concerns about carry-on luggage, a US government report urges the Federal Aviation Administration to review whether passengers really can evacuate a packed airliner in the required 90sec.
AerSale buys 24 757-200s for freighter conversions and part-out
Aircraft trader and support specialist AerSale has acquired 24 Boeing 757-200 passenger jets that were stored at its facilities in Arizona and New Mexico.
Boeing’s Allen succeeds Raymond as head of strategy with direct report to CEO
Boeing has named Marc Allen as chief strategy officer, effective 1 October, a move that could signal renewed focus by Boeing on developing an overarching corporate strategy amid an uncertain time.
BAE to design fly-by-wire system for Aerion’s AS2 supersonic business jet
UK aerospace company BAE Systems will develop the fly-by-wire flight-control system for Aerion Supersonic’s AS2 in-development high-speed business jet, adding another high-profile supplier to Aerion’s roster of partners.
Crisis spurs competition regulator to prolong Oneworld transatlantic pact
UK competition regulators have imposed interim measures to address concerns over transatlantic routes operated under the Oneworld alliance’s joint business arrangement, having opted not to accept concession proposals put forward earlier this year.
E-2D set to receive major cockpit upgrade
The US Navy’s Northrop Grumman E-2D Hawkeye airborne early warning and control aircraft is to get an extensive cockpit refurbishment, including the addition of head-up displays (HUDs).
United pilots reach tentative agreement to avoid furloughs
United Airlines’ pilots have reached a tentative agreement with the carrier to avoid furloughs until the middle of next year.
Delta’s flight attendants and frontline staff avoid furloughs
Delta Air Lines will not involuntarily furlough its flight attendants and ground-based frontline employees after 30 September, when the US CARES Act expires and airlines that have received payroll support funds will once again be free to lay off workers or cut pay.
Ampaire’s second hybrid Cessna gets airborne ahead of Hawaii demonstration flights
Electric aircraft specialist Ampaire has flown a second Cessna 337 Skymaster powered partly by an electric motor, a development coming ahead of planned airline demonstration flights before year end.
IATA encourages Canada to relax travel restrictions
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on the government of Canada to relax its stringent travel restrictions and allow air travel within, to and from the country to return to a semblance of normalcy.
General Atomics unveils ‘ultra-long endurance’ replacement for MQ-9 Reaper
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has unveiled a rendering of its next-generation intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and strike unmanned air vehicle as a proposed replacement of the US Air Force’s MQ-9A Reaper.
FAA extends slot relief at seven major US airports
The Federal Aviation Administration is proposing to extend slot relief at seven major US airports so as not to penalise airlines that reduced flying as a result of the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic.
FlightGlobal launches Decade of Airline Excellence Awards
FlightGlobal is delighted to announce the launch of the Decade of Airline Excellence Awards, which Airline Business will deliver later this year with our partner, Korn Ferry.
Why transatlantic return matters so much to airlines
When Virgin Atlantic broke the news it would need to cut over 1,000 more jobs, even having secured its future within £1.2 billion ($1.6 billion) in refinancing commitments, it underlined just how damaging the failure to reignite the key transatlantic market was.
Transat’s fiscal Q3 yields 99% decline in revenue
Canada’s Transat AT, the parent company of leisure carrier Air Transat, posted revenues of just C$9.5 million ($7.2 million) in its third fiscal quarter. During that period, it had just a single week of operations due to business interruptions from the coronavirus pandemic.
JetBlue adds 24 leisure routes in move to generate cash
JetBlue Airways is launching 24 domestic and international routes as part of a strategy to quickly generate cash from an expected growth in demand for leisure travel.
Boeing appoints new chief communications officer
Boeing has appointed an insurance executive to be its new chief communications officer, the fourth person to hold the post in less than a year.
United plans new long-haul non-stop flights to Africa, India, Hawaii
United Airlines will launch seven new long-haul widebody non-stop routes – five international and two domestic – as the airline shifts its focus away from business travel to the leisure segment, which it believes will be the first to rebound after the coronavirus global health pandemic.
USAF conducts second, ‘more complex’ field test of Advanced Battle Management System
As part of the most recent test, US military forces simulated using ABMS to “detect and defeat efforts to disrupt US operations in space”, says the USAF. The forces also coordinated the shoot-down of a mock cruise missile using a new “hypervelocity weapon”.
Boeing delivers 13 jets in August, books eight new orders
Boeing says it delivered 13 jets in August, bringing it to a total of 87 deliveries in 2020.
United to expand October schedule to 40% of normal
United Airlines says it is expanding its October schedule to about 40% of normal, adding domestic and international destinations in order to try to profit from customers’ pent-up demand after months of shelter-in-place.
De Havilland freighter conversions approved through mid-2021
Transport Canada, the Canadian governmentt’s transportation regulator, has confirmed the extension of approvals for De Havilland Aircraft Canada Dash 8 turboprop Simplified Package Freighter (SPF) conversions through the end of July 2021.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: September 2020 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, airport passenger throughput, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Southwest adds flights to Palm Springs and Miami
Southwest Airlines will be adding flights to Palm Springs, California and Miami as the airline seeks to expand to more destinations for leisure travellers.
Aviation may not recover until 2024: trade group
US airline trade organisation Airlines for America (A4A) estimates four years will pass before travel returns to normal following the coronavirus pandemic.
Perlan Project outfits Perlan 2 with new sensors, preps for 2021 flights
After scrubbing a 2020 flight programme due to coronavirus, the Perlan Project team hopes to fly its high-altitude sailplane in the US Sierra Nevada mountains in early 2021 before returning to Argentina in May.
Airbus subsidiary Satair acquires A220 parts service work from Bombardier
Airbus subsidiary Satair is taking over A220 materials servicing from Bombardier, a move that comes several years after Bombardier divested the broader A220 programme to Airbus.
Disorderly evacuation followed fuel truck collision with Dash 8
Investigators have revealed passengers on a Jazz Bombardier Dash 8-300 suffered injuries by opening and jumping from exits before any evacuation was ordered, after the turboprop was hit by a fuel truck at Toronto.
Scramjet-powered HAWC moves toward first flight after captive carry
Lockheed Martin-Aerojet Rocketdyne and Raytheon Technologies-Northrop Grumman teams have each developed competing hypersonic cruise missiles as part of the HAWC programme.
Mysterious flying man alarms pilots approaching Los Angeles
Two pilots in two different aircraft reported seeing a man in a jetpack near the approach path of landing aircraft at Los Angeles International airport on 30 August, the Federal Aviation Administration says.
United Airlines to involuntarily furlough 16,370
United Airlines says that it will involuntarily furlough 16,370 employees at the end of this month as the long-term effects of the coronavirus crisis continue to take its toll on the air transport industry.
First MH-47G Block II Chinook delivered to US Special Operations Command
The helicopter arrived on time even though the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania factory where it was made being shut down for about two and a half weeks in April due to the coronavirus pandemic.
US Air Force grapples with vexing problem of AI spoofing
The US Department of Defense (DoD) is worried that artificial intelligence programs might have serious and unknown vulnerabilities that adversaries could exploit.
‘Ruthless’ aircraft-buying decisions needed to avoid defeat: USAF
The “Accelerate Change or Lose” approach to buying aircraft, weapons and subsystems is being driven by increasingly sophisticated weapons being developed and fielded by China and Russia, says US Air Force chief of staff General Charles Brown.
WestJet passes Nav Canada fee increases to customers
Nav Canada, the Canadian provider of civil air navigation services, has increased its fees for air traffic control services by almost 30%, prompting the country’s second largest carrier to pass those fees on to its customers.
US pilots and cabin crew brace for furloughs: a look at the numbers
US passenger airlines are preparing to shed up to 100,000 jobs in the coming weeks unless Congress steps in to extend the financial relief that kept workers employed until now.
Governments ‘killing aviation’ by not managing border risks: IATA
The lack of co-operation between governments is stymieing the restart of commercial air travel amid the coronavirus pandemic, potentially causing “irreparable demand to global connectivity”, according to IATA.
Air cargo traffic stabilises in July as capacity crunch continues
Air cargo traffic was stable in July but demand continues to be constrained by the lack of bellyhold capacity, according to the latest monthly report from IATA.
DC-3 crashed after accidental lever nudge cut fuel to engines
Canadian investigators believe one of the pilots of a modified Douglas DC-3 inadvertently moved the aircraft’s fuel-condition levers while raising the undercarriage, cutting off the fuel flow to both engines.
Exosonic developing low-boom supersonic jet possibly to serve as ‘Air Force One’
Start-up Exosonic recently won a US Air Force (USAF) contract to develop a low-boom supersonic executive transport that could serve as a future “Air Force One”.
Raytheon slows hybrid-electric airliner project, citing pandemic
Raytheon Technologies has slowed development of a hybrid-electric airliner under an effort called Project 804, though the company insists it remains committed to advancing electric-aircraft technologies.
Delta and American follow United in abolishing change fees
A day after United Airlines killed the long-hated change fee, Delta Air Lines and American Airlines have matched the Chicago-based carrier’s move, also pledging to “permanently” eliminate all change fees for domestic and some international travel.
Avianca secures $370m government loan commitment
Colombia’s government has committed $370 million in aid to Avianca as part of a $2 billion financing package aimed at helping the struggling carrier weather the coronavirus downturn.
Airbus and Boeing to issue joint paper on modernising air traffic management
Airbus has collaborated with Boeing to write a report warning that air traffic management (ATM) technology must be significantly modernised to manage countless new small aircraft that will occupy future airspace.
Acubed works toward single-pilot A320 replacement, begins autonomy-development flights
Airbus innovation arm Acubed has started flights in California to advance autonomous technology that will make the next clean-sheet narrowbody aircraft capable of single-pilot operation.
United to furlough 2,850 pilots by end-2020
United Airlines will furlough 2,850 of its 13,000 pilots by the end of 2020 as passenger demand remains low and federal funding for airlines runs out in the coming weeks.
Boeing orders eight 787s to be withdrawn from service over structural issue
Boeing has ordered the removal from service of eight recently built 787s which have been identified as suffering from two “distinct manufacturing issues”.
Otto Aviation reveals Celera business aircraft with super-efficient ‘laminar flow’
A US company called Otto Aviation has revealed a prototype of an efficient, long-range, fuel-powered passenger aircraft called Celera 500L.
GE ships two F414s to NASA as X-59 demonstrator progresses
NASA has taken delivery of two GE Aviation F414-GE-100 turbofans, which will power the agency’s in-development supersonic test aircraft, the X-59.
Eremenko launches hydrogen supply company with plan for hydrogen-fueled Dash 8s
Paul Eremenko, a former Airbus and Raytheon Technologies executive, has co-founded a company that aims to bring hydrogen-fuel technology and a related supply system to regional airliners as soon as 2024.
With Tesla and SpaceX credentials, start-up flies pilotless Caravan
A US start-up headed by former Tesla and SpaceX software engineers has completed more than 50 flights of remotely-piloted Cessna aircraft and aims to offer a certified pilotless Caravan 208 within as little as two years.
US Navy researches long-range aerial sea mine
The service wants sea mines it can launch while out of enemy air defence reach.
Spirit pilots agree to deal preventing 600 layoffs
Spirit Airlines’ pilots have agreed to work fewer hours as part of a deal that will prevent the airline from needing to lay off 600 of pilots.
New aircraft-noise rule would do little to quiet the skies: government report
A ban on aircraft that do not meet new noise standards would do little to reduce overall aircraft noise and would impose costly requirements on airlines and aerospace manufacturers.
Wallet, watch, mask and lots of hand sanitiser: wary passengers return to the skies
Face-masked and armed with hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes, passengers in the USA are returning to air travel in slightly larger numbers even though coronavirus cases continue to steadily rise across the country and a possible vaccine could be months away.
US Air Force leaders watch first Agility Prime eVTOL demonstration
Several top US Air Force leaders watched a demonstration flight of an electric-vertical-takeoff-and-landing (eVTOL) aircraft on 20 August at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas.
Union warns Boeing may seek concessions amid 787 production review
The union representing Boeing’s Washington state workforce has warned members that the airframer may seek to renegotiate contract terms as it considers closing one of two 787 production facilities.
ExpressJet to cease operations on 30 September
ExpressJet will shutter operations at the end of next month after passenger demand sharply declined due to the coronavirus, and United Airlines decided to consolidate its regional flying with another carrier.
Airlines walk tightrope on pilot furloughs
Airlines find themselves facing a critical dilemma as they resize their networks for a new post-coronavirus normal, and must walk a tightrope between furloughing pilots and keeping them on staff to maintain their network flexibility, experts say.
Aerion lands ‘multi-million’ investment from state of Florida
Aerion Supersonic has received a “multi-million” dollar investment from Florida’s aerospace development agency for the purpose of supporting Aerion’s plan to relocate to Florida.
Airline Business podcast: uncertainties prevail after bleak Q2 results
Graham and Lewis discuss a bleak financial results season, as airlines count the costs of a ruinous April-June period while grappling with a bumpier-than-expected comeback in the current quarter.
Xwing successfully tests autonomous flight systems on a Cessna Grand Caravan
Xwing, a San Francisco Bay Area autonomous systems startup, has conducted numerous fully autonomous passenger flights in a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan.
American cuts 15 cities from network as government aid expires
American Airlines intends to axe routes to 15 destinations, as it begins trimming its network due to the expiration of government aid and a lack of demand for air travel.
US airline fleet swells in summer but autumn cuts loom
In recent months US airlines have brought some 1,600 aircraft back into their fleets, bolstering their operations amid hopes that air travel demand would rebound following a dismal spring.
US Army Research Lab develops power line detect-and-avoid sensor for UAVs
Its sensor detects the electromagnetic field of a nearby power line and uses software to automatically direct the UAV to change its flightpath away from a collision. The technology is seen as useful for urban battlefields of the future and also is being licensed for commercial use.
Boeing scores Max win with two-jet order from Warsaw’s Enter Air
Polish charter carrier Enter Air has ordered two additional Boeing 737 Max 8s and taken options to buy another two of the jets, marking a rare sales win for Boeing’s and its still-grounded Max.
Icelandair: Keflavik hub stands to benefit as non-stop competitors retreat
Icelandair Group has warned that if its operation collapsed, the Reykjavik Keflavik hub would take years to rebuild and, as a result, would cause substantial damage to the country’s economy.
US and Chinese carriers can double flights between countries: DoT
The four Chinese airlines currently operating scheduled passenger services to the USA may double their services to eight weekly round-trip flights, according to the US Department of Transportation.
Spirit Aero may need more cash, with $920m in acquisitions looming: analysts
The pace at which Spirit AeroSystems has been burning through cash has left some analysts questioning if the company will be able to close two acquisitions as planned, and whether it might need additional funding.
Frontier bets on cost-sensitive travellers’ return to skies first
Like the rest of the airline industry, Frontier Airlines is cutting costs and seeking federal aid as the pandemic has obliterated passenger demand, while also defending its network position as it plans for an eventual travel recovery.
Breeze withdraws application for Compass’ certificate
Breeze Airways, the start-up passenger carrier headed by serial aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, has abandoned its application to acquire the certificate of now-defunct Compass Airlines.
Airports trade group advocates for testing instead of quarantines
An international trade group representing airports is the latest organisation to call for widespread coronavirus testing to replace current quarantine measures in order to encourage passengers to begin travelling again.
Airbus Americas CEO optimistic in 2021 uptick, predicts ‘morphing’ of industry
The top Airbus executive in North America thinks industry conditions will improve at least incrementally in 2021 but that aerospace companies and airlines will emerge from the downturn changed in ways yet unknown.
Neste delivers sustainable aviation fuel in San Francisco
Finnish renewable fuels producer Neste has begun supplying three of the United States’ largest airlines with sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) for flights from San Francisco International airport.
A350 launch-aid tweaks fail to persuade US to ease tariffs
US authorities are unconvinced by recent Airbus claims that amended A350 launch-aid agreements equate to implementation of a World Trade Organization ruling to remove subsidies.
GECAS tops up 737-800 converted freighter orders
Lessor GECAS is to take up to 20 more Boeing 737-800 converted freighters, having firmed up orders for 11 of the cargo jets.
US leaves unchanged 15% tariff on European aircraft imports
The US government has left unchanged a 15% tariff on Airbus aircraft imports following a required review of a broad $7.5 billion tariff package on European products.
United introduces 28 new flights to Florida
United Airlines has added more domestic flights from the Midwest and the northeastern US to warm-weather destinations in the south in a move that signals the airline is banking on leisure travel as the first segment of the industry to recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
2016 engine failure prompts study of ‘high-energy’ engine parts, GE enhances inspections
The US aerospace industry’s trade group has commenced a study into the durability of rotating turbofan components at the request of the Federal Aviation Administration. The study stems from the 2016 failure of a GE Aviation CF6 turbofan on an American Airlines Boeing 767.
July cancellations push 737 Max backlog cut to 860 for the year
Boeing’s 737 Max backlog declined nearly 20% in the first seven months of 2020, with the company stripping more than 850 jets from its books due to order cancellations and accounting adjustments.
Carrying US presidential candidates this autumn? Know the rules: NBAA
Aircraft operators will want to be painstakingly careful this fall when carrying nominees for upcoming US federal elections.
Second Cessna SkyCourier takes flight
The flight lasted one hour and 35 minutes, and reached a maximum altitude of 14,200ft, and a maximum speed of 210kt (378km/h).
Mesa bets on Cargo as operating profit falls 12%
Mesa Air Group reported a $15 million operating profit during the third quarter despite the travel downturn during the coronavirus pandemic.
Boeing delivered four jets in July, with no new orders
Boeing’s commercial activity slowed to a trickle in July, when the company handed over just four jets and took in no new aircraft orders.
FAA staff cite industry influence and lack of accountability in staff survey
Staffers in the Federal Aviation Administration’s aircraft certification branch believe industry pressure has negatively affected safety oversight and that top managers have not been held accountable for safety-related shortcomings.
Atlas 767 probe sees potential to adapt military terrain-escape system
Loss of an Atlas Air Boeing 767-300F in Texas last year has led investigators to highlight the potential for adapting military automatic ground collision-avoidance technology to civil aircraft.
Triumph preps to sell G650 and composites work as refocus continues
Aerospace supplier Triumph Group this week progressed with a plan to divest its aerostructures divisions, saying it has signed deals to sell business-jet work to Gulfstream and composite-manufacturing facilities to a private equity company.
Atlas 747-400F sustains pod-strike on three engines in Shanghai
One of US cargo operator Atlas Air’s Boeing 747-400Fs has sustained a treble engine pod-strike while landing at Shanghai in China.
United begins removing seats from regional aircraft
United Airlines has begun removing seats from Embraer 175 regional aircraft, a strong indication that broad pilot furloughs are imminent.
US lifts blanket ‘do not travel’ advisory for citizens
The US State Department has lifted its blanket global travel advisory warning citizens not to travel overseas after determining that the situation around the spread of the coronavirus has improved enough globally to be able to differentiate between potential travel destinations.
Bombardier’s second-quarter deliveries slide as executives urge patience
Despite another quarterly loss and scepticism from financial analysts, Bombardier’s executives insisted on 6 August that the company remains on track to become a profitable standalone aviation business.
Airline losses mount for second quarter after revenues collapse
Airlines routinely posted losses deeper than the revenue they brought in during the April-June quarter, as the virtual grounding of international scheduled services wiped out much of their business.
US Senators call for more financial aid for airlines
Sixteen US senators have requested additional financial aid for the aviation sector as the coronavirus continues to prevent a return to normal operations.
FAA fines Boeing $1.25m for ODA violations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed fining Boeing a total of $1.25 million in civil penalties for several violations of rules that allow aircraft manufacturers to perform some FAA functions.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: August 2020 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, airport passenger throughput, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Boeing’s third 777X aircraft begins flight testing
Boeing’s third 777X airframe has launched on its maiden flight, less than a week after the airframer said its first delivery of the type would be pushed back to 2022.
Spirit AeroSystems grapples with dual crises in second quarter
Spirit AeroSystems posted a $256 million loss in the second quarter, crippled by twin crises that have rocked the aviation industry as a whole: the continued grounding of the 737 Max and the long-term effects of the coronavirus.
Canadian regional Porter postpones restart to October
Porter Airlines is postponing its return-to-service date from 31 August to 7 October amid ongoing domestic travel restrictions and the closure of the border between the USA and Canada.
FAA proposes four design changes to 737 Max in new AD
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has suggested four key design changes to the beleaguered Boeing 737 Max in order to address safety issues that led to its almost 17-month grounding following two fatal crashes that killed 346 people.
US Army orders nine additional MH-47G Block II Chinooks
Boeing has secured a $265 million deal to supply nine additional MH-47G Block II Chinooks for the US Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC).
SpaceX Crew Dragon splashdown signals US human spaceflight return
The USA has returned to the human spaceflight business following the successful return to earth of the SpaceX Crew Dragon today, carrying NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley.
Canada takes bids for F-35s, F/A-18s and Gripens
Canada has received bids to replace its jet fighter fleet with either Lockheed Martin F-35s, Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets or Saab Gripen E fighters.
ExpressJet studying options amid warning of ‘wind down’
ExpressJet Airlines is evaluating “options for the future” following a severed relationship with United Airlines, though the regional carrier’s trade association says ExpressJet has warned of a “potential phased wind down”.
United plans to furlough at least one third of pilots
United Airlines plans to furlough at least one-third of its total pilot population as the carrier continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic’s long-term effects on the air transport industry.
Air Canada reports second-quarter loss of C$1.8bn
Air Canada posted a stunning C$1.8 billion ($1.5 billion) loss during the second quarter, as the coronavirus shut down almost all air travel in the country, and government-imposed restrictions kept passengers away.
BA axes A318 premium service that took over Concorde flight number
British Airways is to axe its premium Airbus A318 transatlantic service from London City to New York JFK, as part of its re-organisation to deal with the air transport crisis.
United ends partnership with ExpressJet
United Airlines will consolidate all of its regional Embraer 145 flying to one partner, in order to streamline its network and lower costs as the coronavirus outbreak continues to take its toll on the air transport industry.
SkyWest posts $26m loss, ramps up Embraer fleet
SkyWest Airlines reported a $26 million loss in the coronavirus-marked second quarter as demand slumped and the airline significantly reduced its network.
Scale of Covid collapse raises questions about what comes next
Consider this: On a Friday in July 2019, 11 airlines operated 66 flights from Washington DC to New York City-area airports. Fast forward: on Friday 17 July, carriers operated just 15 flights on those routes.
Boom and Rolls-Royce join to study propulsion for supersonic Overture
Rolls-Royce may develop the propulsion system that will power Boom Supersonic’s in-development, conceptual supersonic passenger aircraft Overture.
Airlines left doubting if enough people can, or will, travel in 2020
The industry’s relief at being able to ramp up services as the second half of 2020 began is quickly being replaced by concern that the coronavirus is likely to weigh more heavily on demand than previously thought.
Analysts view Charleston as central to 787’s future as Boeing CEO urges patience
Boeing’s chief executive has cautioned against speculation that the company’s 787 production review will culminate in an eventual shift of all 787 work to South Carolina. But analysts view Boeing as heading in that direction.
Allegiant loses $93 million in ‘most turbulent’ quarter
Allegiant Travel Company, parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air, reported a $93 million loss in the second quarter as the coronavirus pandemic ravaged the air transport industry during the period.
Uncoordinated government response to coronavirus hinders recovery: experts
As the coronavirus pandemic drags on, air passengers have become accustomed to social distancing rules and other safety measures, but industry experts say uncoordinated government responses continue to prevent the industry from meaningful recovery.
AerCap cancels 15 737 Max orders
Aircraft lessor AerCap has cancelled orders for 15 Boeing 737 Max, becoming the latest Boeing customer to nix orders for the still-grounded jet.
Boeing aims to deliver ‘majority’ of 450 stored 737 Max within one year
Boeing intends to deliver most of its 450-strong 737 Max stockpile within one year of resuming deliveries of the still-grounded jet.
GE Aviation loses thrust as pandemic takes toll
GE Aviation’s sales tumbled by nearly half in the second quarter of 2020 as the industry downturn sapped commercial aircraft engine demand and erased profits.
Boeing pushes to Q4 its expectation for resuming 737 Max deliveries
Boeing has pushed back its expectation of the 737 Max’s certification by one quarter, saying it now expects to resume 737 Max deliveries in the fourth quarter.
Boeing slashes output, delays 777X to 2022 and confirms end for 747
Boeing has pushed back its first 777X delivery, slashed production rates, warned of more layoffs and confirmed it will end 747 production in 2022. The company also says it is evaluate whether to consolidate its two 787 production facilities.
Trump administration’s relaxation of UAV export rules offers belated boon for US manufacturers
The Trump administration’s decision to modify its adherence to the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) is positive for American manufacturers of large unmanned air vehicles (UAVs), but comes after much ground has already been ceded to China.
Hawaiian delays Boeing 787 Dreamliner deliveries
Hawaiian Airlines says it will be delaying deliveries of its long-awaited Boeing 787 Dreamliners as the carrier contends with a difficult business environment perpetrated by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Hawaiian Airlines frustrated by ongoing quarantine
Hawaiian Airlines’ second quarter ended with a loss of $107 million after its home state’s strict travel restrictions prevented it from doing any meaningful business for much of the three months ending in June.
P&W’s commercial engine shipments and aftermarket sales tumble in Q2
Pratt and Whitney’s engine deliveries sunk by half year-on-year in the second quarter, while aftermarket sales also tumbled, pushing P&W to a $457 million loss for the period.
JetBlue prepares for volatile recovery
JetBlue Airways posted a $320 million loss in the second quarter and expects further volatility through the third and fourth quarters as the long-term effects of the coronavirus on the New York-based low-cost carrier become clear.
Air cargo decline narrows in June but market ‘exceptionally challenging’
Air freight traffic declines showed some signs of improving in June but business remains “exceptionally challenging”, according to the latest IATA market wrap-up.
IATA pushes airline recovery to 2024 amid ‘surprisingly weak’ restart
Demand for air travel is unlikely to reach 2019 levels until 2024, according to revised figures from IATA, which cites “unexpectedly weak” traffic during the current restart of services.
Collins will not deliver Max components until second half of 2021, says Raytheon
Collins Aerospace will likely not begin shipping components for Boeing’s still-grounded 737 Max until the second half of 2021.
Supersonic AS2 forward fuselage to be built by Spirit AeroSystems
US aerostructures firm Spirit AeroSystems is to build the forward fuselage of the Aerion AS2 supersonic business jet, in return for additional investment in the programme.
Airbus’ and Boeing’s undelivered jet inventories swell amid pandemic
Boeing and Airbus have accumulated hundreds of produced, but not delivered, aircraft in recent months, including dozens of widebody jets.
US airlines brace for further volatility in second half of 2020
No matter what kind of positive spin they put on it, US airlines suffered financial carnage in the second quarter as the coronavirus tore through the industry and global economy.
Corrosion can prompt 737NG in-flight engine shutdowns following storage: FAA
Storage can cause 737NG engine valves to corrode, potentially leading to inflight loss of power or engine shutdowns, the US Federal Aviation Administration warns.
Analysts question if demand supports Boeing’s 2021 Max production plan
Boeing has said it will increase Max production to 31 jets monthly in 2021. But two analysts call that rate too high, saying market demand supports a rate closer to 20 Max monthly.
Airline slot waivers need strict conditions: ACI World chief
Airports body ACI World does not completely oppose a waiver of the 80:20 slot rule in the North Hemisphere winter season, but argues it should only be applied with strict conditions attached.
Airbus ‘olive branch’ aims to end subsidy row as WTO remains impaired
Airbus’s adjustment of A350 launch aid contracts is intended to bring an early end to a transatlantic subsidies dispute which is otherwise set to drag on for several months as a consequence of delays to World Trade Organization decisions.
Why SpiceJet may feel time is right for US and UK services
True long-haul flights would be a significant strategic change for the budget operator, and there are many challenges to overcome before services could start.
A350 launch aid rejig leaves US tariffs unjustified: Airbus chief
Airbus believes it is in complete compliance with World Trade Organization rulings on commercial aircraft subsidies after adjusting contracts for A350 government launch aid.
USAF taps four companies for Skyborg attritable aircraft work
The US Air Force has announced four contenders for its Skyborg programme to create an artificial- intelligence enabled ‘loyal wingman’ aircraft.
Combined cockpit-voice and data recorder set for A320neo line
Airbus A320neos will have a new combined cockpit-voice and flight-data recorder line-fit option this year following certification of L3Harris Technologies’ latest model.
Southwest sees recovery as ‘long saw-toothed slog’
Southwest Airlines reported a $915 million loss for the second quarter and says it expects customer demand to return to pre-coronavirus levels only once there is a vaccine to protect travellers.
American losses top $2bn as crisis hammers airline in second quarter
American Airlines posted a net loss of $2.1 billion during a devastating second quarter as the coronavirus brought air travel and the global economy to a near-standstill.
Alaska eyes Oneworld membership by year-end
Alaska Airlines hopes to complete its entry into Oneworld by the end of the year after the alliance formally invited the US carrier to become its 14th member.
Spirit warns of tough third quarter
Spirit Airlines says its flexible network and lower fuel and flight operations costs helped it weather the coronavirus storm in the second quarter, and expects the next months to continue to be volatile as the pandemic drags on.
DHL orders four 767 Boeing Converted Freighters
Express shipment airline DHL Express has ordered four 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighters – passenger jets that the airframer will modify into cargo aircraft.
United refrains from retiring aircraft, stands ready to expand long-haul travel
United Airlines has no plans to retire aircraft following the devastating coronavirus crisis, saying it stands ready to resume normal services and to offer more long-haul flights to overseas destinations once travel restrictions lift.
New chief has big plans for ACI, but crisis recovery comes first
The new director general of airports body ACI World has grand plans to increase the profile and reach of the organisation – but knows he must first oversee the industry’s recovery from an unprecedented crisis, as the coronavirus pandemic halves passenger traffic in 2020.
Airlines call for joint Europe-USA coronavirus testing programme
Chief executives at IAG, Lufthansa, American Airlines and United Airlines have written a letter to US vice-president Mike Pence and European home-affairs commissioner Ylva Johansson, urging them to adopt a joint Covid-19 testing programme to enable transatlantic passenger flights to resume.
Raytheon tapped for aircraft self-defence missile work
Raytheon has secured a $375 million contract from the US government to develop a miniature self-defence missile (MSDM) that will form part of an aircraft’s defensive suite.
United suffers ‘most difficult’ quarter in its 94-year history
United Airlines posted a loss of $1.6 billion for the second quarter of the year as the global coronavirus pandemic brought commercial aviation to a near-standstill, decimating passenger demand and forcing the carrier to ground a large portion of its fleet.
US pilot union calls for extension of airline financial aid
Pilot union Air Line Pilots, International (ALPA) has again called on the US Congress to extend its payroll support programme (PSP) another six months beyond the original expiry date of 1 October.
Alaska Airlines’ pilots approve measures that will prevent furloughs: union
Pilots at Alaska Airlines have reached an agreement with the carrier that they say will prevent the need for furloughs and layoffs when government payroll support ends later this year.
FAA set to propose order to lift Max grounding, public comment to follow
The Federal Aviation Administration is close to issuing a proposed order for lifting the grounding of the Boeing 737 Max, a milestone that will kick off a 45-day public-comment period.
US lawmakers request FAA safety culture survey results
Two US lawmakers have asked the FAA for results of an employee survey about the regulator’s safety culture as part of its investigation into the design, development and certification of the troubled Boeing 737 Max aircraft.
Indian carrier IndiGo lays off 10% of staff
Indian airline IndiGo is cutting 10% of its workforce due to the pandemic-induced industry downturn, saying cost cutting has been insufficient to prevent a companywide contraction.
Bombardier expects special-mission aircraft bump as pandemic drives demand
The coronavirus pandemic is driving up demand for specialised variants of Bombardier’s business jets, particularly for medevac-configured aircraft, the company says.
Embraer’s first-half 2020 deliveries tumble more than half to 31 jets
Embraer delivered 31 civil aircraft, including military and commercial models, in the first half of 2020, fewer than half the number of aircraft it handed over in the first six months of 2019.
Boeing set to start ecoDemonstrator flights using Etihad-bound 787
Covid-19 aside, Boeing plans later this year to roll out its latest ecoDemonstrator – an Etihad Airways-bound 787-10.
Lockheed lands $15 billion deal for C-130J work
The US government has awarded Lockheed Martin a $15 billion contract related to upgrade work across the world’s C-130J tactical transport fleet.
Boeing lands digital service deals with Asian carriers
Boeing’s services division has inked a series of orders and contracts— mostly with Asian carriers — for its digital and training products.
United’s pilot union green-lights voluntary measures to mitigate layoffs
The union representing United Airlines’ pilots has voted to accept voluntary staff reduction plans that would help reduce the number of pilots who might be laid off in the coming months.
American’s pilots blast JetBlue strategic agreement
American Airlines’ pilots have harshly criticised a planned partnerhip with JetBlue Airways that could become a case study of how major US airlines plan to weather the coronavirus downturn..
Charter start-up GlobalX signs for an A320
Prospective charter carrier Global Crossing Airlines has entered into an agreement to purchase one Airbus A320-200 aircraft as it awaits FAA approval to begin operations.
Bombardier introduces faster inflight wi-fi and cabin updates for Challenger 350
Bombardier has rolled out a series of cabin updates to its 10-passenger Challenger 350 super midsize business jet – changes building on recent performance and avionics enhancements.
American and JetBlue unveil strategic partnership focused on Northeast USA
American Airlines and JetBlue Airways have announced the formation of a “strategic partnership” under which they propose to operate codeshare flights and reciprocal frequent flier benefits.
Airlines urgently need winter waiver decision: IATA slots chief
Airlines urgently require regulatory bodies to waive the 80:20 slot rule for the northern hemisphere winter season, according to Lara Maughan, head of worldwide airport slots at IATA.
American Airlines warns 25,000 employees of pending job losses
American Airlines has warned 25,000 employees that they may be out of a job when the USA’s federally funded payroll support programme runs out on 1 October.
Air Canada re-ups appeal to end quarantine requirements
Air Canada has reiterated its call for the government of Canada to ease four-month-old coronavirus-prompted travel restrictions that have disrupted the country’s aviation industry and which continue to be a severe drag on air transport.
FAA bans DuPont fuel additive from use in 737 Max
Citing the risk of dual-engine power loss, the US Federal Aviation Administration has prohibited airlines from adding a DuPont-made biocide to the fuel of Boeing 737 Max.
FAA bans Pakistan-based carriers from US airports
The Federal Aviation Administration has banned airlines from Pakistan from flying to US airports due to safety concerns.
How many jobs are airlines cutting due to coronavirus?
Of the large airlines to have made announcements so far, most have implemented job cuts affecting significant proportions of their workforces.
GA Telesis, Liebherr ink E-Jet landing gear overhaul agreement
GA Telesis’ MRO unit will cooperate with Liebherr-Aerospace to provide landing gear repair and overhaul for Embraer E-jet operators in the Americas.
CH-47 Chinook flight tests with more powerful GE T408 engine could begin within weeks
Boeing could start flight tests of a US Army NCH-47D Chinook with the more powerful GE Aviation T408-GE-400 turboshaft engine within a couple of months, if not several weeks.
Textron Aviation to lay off another 800
Textron Aviation has announced another round of job cuts, bringing the total number of layoffs at the US airframer to nearly 1,100.
Delta says road to recovery will be long and ‘choppy’
Delta Air Lines has seen a few positive signals for a recovery after the coronavirus pandemic almost completely shut down air travel during April, as it was able to reduce cash burn amid a small increase in bookings, but the airline’s losses during the quarter indicate the industry’s crisis is still far from over.
Boeing’s deliveries tumble in first half of 2020, Max cancellations climb
Boeing delivered 10 commercial aircraft in June, bringing to 70 the number of jets it delivered in the first half of 2020, down 71% from 239 deliveries in the same six-month period last year.
737 Max certification remains urgent for Boeing even as new-jet demand sags
Among Boeing’s various challenges, getting the 737 Max certificated still takes top prize – even though the coronavirus downturn has eroded demand for new jets
Delta posts huge second-quarter loss as pandemic takes toll
Delta Air Lines posted an adjusted pre-tax loss of $3.9 billion for the second quarter, even before fleet restructuring costs and investment write-downs widened its overall coronavirus crisis losses incurred for the period.
What aerospace technologies will survive looming US defence cuts?
Expect a shrinking Pentagon budget in the mid-2020s. Though the USA might have tamed coronavirus and started to see its economy grow again by the middle of the decade, Washington will have to face up to the hard fiscal and economic realities of years of lost revenue
Airline Business podcast: Challenges as airlines return to skies
As airlines begin to ramp up operations, Graham and Lewis discuss the demand situation and the possible pitfalls ahead.
USAF orders eight Boeing F-15EX as part of deal worth up to $23bn
The US Air Force has ordered eight Boeing F-15EX fighters as part of a larger deal the manufacturer says could be worth nearly $23 billion.
American pilots review Boeing’s latest Max training draft
American Airlines’ pilot union is now reviewing Boeing’s latest 737 Max pilot training draft – a document the union describes as vastly more thorough than previous drafts.
American seeks Boeing’s help to avoid 737 Max cancellations: report
American Airlines is reportedly seeking Boeing’s help to arrange financing for the purchase of at least one dozen 737 Max jets scheduled to be delivered this year, with the fate of those orders hanging in the balance.
Breeze applies for certificate transfer, presents business plans
Breeze Airways, the start-up passenger carrier headed by serial aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, has applied to acquire the certificate of now-defunct Compass Airlines, and published plans for its first year of operation.
FAA says 88 air traffic control facilities affected by coronavirus
Since the coronavirus pandemic reached the United States earlier this year, air traffic control (ATC) staff at almost 90 facilities across the country have tested positive for the virus, causing regular disruptions to this crucial network.
Canadian aerospace groups appeal for federal aid
The Canadian aerospace industry is appealing for federal aid after the Canadian government released an economic stabilisation plan that makes no mention of the aerospace sector.
Emirates resumes flights to six further destinations
Emirates plans to restore services to a further six destinations from 15 July to 15 August, bringing the carrier’s network to 58 cities.
Dassault Falcon 6X progresses toward on time 2021 first flight
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, Dassault Aviation remains on track with development of its large-cabin Falcon 6X business jet, which is still scheduled for first flight in early 2021.
JetBlue to leave Long Beach, shift flights to Los Angeles
New York-based low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways will leave Long Beach airport in October, shifting flights to Los Angeles International airport, which will become JetBlue’s primary West Coast operations centre.
US Air Force gets colour TV upgrade for Litening targeting pods
Northrop Grumman says colour video footage should help pilots make sense of the battlefield faster.
DARPA awards contract to retrofit L-39 Albatros jets for AI dogfighting tests
The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has awarded Calspan Corporation a $14.1 million, four-year contract to retrofit up to four Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros jet trainers for artificial intelligence-controlled flight experiments.
Bombardier passes milestone of 350 Challenger 350 deliveries
Bombardier has now delivered 350 of its Challenger 350 super-midsize business jets, a milestone the company says comes as it continues rolling out technology updates.
US investment firm picks up Corsair’s 747-400 fleet
Three Boeing 747-400s formerly part of the fleet of French leisure airline Corsair have been sold to the aviation division of a US-based transport and energy sector investor.
Why the F-35 is a good deal judging by cost-per-effect: think tank
Fifth-generation aircraft, such as the Lockheed Martin F-35, Lockheed Martin F-22 and Northrop Grumman B-21, deliver much more bang for the buck than current measurement systems show, says the Mitchell Institute.
United warns 36,000 employees their jobs are in danger
United Airlines has warned 36,000 employees, or 45% of its total staff, that their jobs may be in danger as the carrier prepares to downsize following the coronavirus pandemic.
Jet Linx snaps up Meridian
Jet Linx Aviation has snapped up the aircraft operating arm of fellow US business aviation services provider Meridian to become what it describes as the second largest aircraft management company in the USA.
Avolon strikes another 27 Max from order book
Aircraft lessor Avolon has cancelled orders for another 27 Boeing 737 Max, striking another blow to Boeing’s backlog as the airframer works to get the Max back in the skies.
United sees cancellations rise, warns of furloughs
United Airlines says cancellations of forward bookings are once again rising due to new travel restrictions and increasing numbers of coronavirus cases across the southern sun belt states, prompting a warning that furloughs will be inevitable.
Greece to acquire two air ambulance King Air 350s
Textron Aviation has sold two Beechcraft King Air 350C medivac aircraft for use by Greece’s ministry of health.
Canada’s Nolinor announces launch of new airline
Canadian passenger and freight charter airline Nolinor Aviation has announced plans to launch a new airline later this year despite the coronavirus crisis that has decimated much of the travel industry.
Counter-drone start-up Anduril raises $200m
The funding nearly doubles its prior valuation, raising its worth to $1.9 billion. Anduril plans to use the cash to improve its autonomous unmanned air vehicles and artificial intelligence software, as well as make additional hires.
US government publishes health guidance for airlines and airports
The US Departments of Transportation, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services have jointly published a report outlining recommendations for public safety as the world continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic.
Boeing communications chief resigns over commentary published in 1987
A top Boeing executive has resigned over an article he wrote more than three decades ago in which he advocated that women should not be permitted to serve in combat roles in the military.
Sierra Nevada awarded $700m to develop countermeasures for special ops C-130Js
The systems are to be installed on the special operation force’s AC-130J Ghostrider gunship and MC-130J Commando II transport.
British Airways outlines return of more long-haul services
British Airways has outlined plans to restart services to a raft of destinations in July, including some long-haul routes.
FAA completes three days of 737 Max flight testing
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has completed three days of flight tests on the Boeing 737 Max ahead of a possible recertification in the coming weeks.
Hawaiian reinstates flights to mainland US
Hawaiian Airlines will reinstate flights to the mainland USA in August, as the state of Hawaii begins to lift its draconian restrictions on movement within the islands as well as between the islands and the airline’s main destinations on the west coast of North America.
NBAA cancels 2020 business aviation convention
The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has cancelled its annual business aviation convention and exhibition (NBAA-BACE), due to take place in Orlando later this year, due to ongoing coronavirus concerns and travel restrictions.
Inspector General slams Boeing for holding back information on 737 Max
A US government report has found that Boeing purposefully held back information about the automated flight-control system on its re-engineered 737 Max during the aircraft’s certification process, that led to two fatal aircraft crashes that killed 346 people.
US Air Force links F-35, F-22, F-16 and E-3 Sentry in multiplayer combat simulator
Pilots flew in “a highly contested simulated environment” during final acceptance test of the Distributed Mission Training system at Nellis AFB in Nevada.
How surface-to-air missiles are changing the UAV industry
The spread of surface-to-air missiles around the world is causing the USA to rethink the way it uses its unmanned air vehicles.
Could long-endurance UAVs be repurposed for surveillance of Russia and China?
UAVs currently fielded by the USA and Western allies are vulnerable to ground fire but may be the key to creating an early warning system in geopolitical hotspots like the Baltics or Taiwan; in fact, some analysts argue, operating non-stealthy aircraft “in plain sight” could have a powerful deterrent effect
Major US airlines announce schedule changes
The three US legacy passenger carriers have announced changes to their schedules after a four-month period in which capacity and demand had hit all-time lows due to the coronavirus pandemic.
United 777 blade failure followed prolonged gap in P&W inspection training
US investigators believe prolonged absence of formal training and certification for a fan-blade inspection technique resulted in a flawed blade being returned to service and subsequently fracturing on a United Airlines Boeing 777-200.
Despite almost certain job cuts, airlines sell vision of brighter days ahead
US airline human resources executives forecast short-term pain for aviation employees but must remain upbeat that their industry will find a way out of its current slump in order to attract candidates back to fulfilling careers when the coronavirus is history. For many of them, it’s a tough sell.
US Army receives EMARSS-V aircraft with prototype upgrades
The EMARSS-V is based on the commercial Beechcraft King Air 350. It is used to detect, locate, classify, identify and track vehicles and foot soldiers on the ground. The modified EMARSS-V aircraft has more powerful engines which allow for better performance at higher elevations and hotter temperatures during takeoff.
Embraer delivers first enhanced Phenom 300E
Embraer has delivered the initial example of the latest Phenom 300E, with the handover on 26 June to a US law firm coming just six months after the upgraded light-cabin business jet was launched.
General Atomics launches Altius-600 drone from MQ-1C Gray Eagle
The test launch of the Altius-600 from the MQ-1C was part of a month-long demonstration to show new uses for the US Army’s largest UAV, for instance, as an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance tool to be used against sophisticated adversaries, such as China or Russia.
Boeing 737 Max takes off on first FAA recertification flight
Boeing’s beleaguered 737 Max aircraft has taken a big step towards recertification more than 15 months after it was grounded, as it launched on its first official recertification flight.
US Air Force requests ideas for arsenal plane to launch long-range missiles ‘en masse’
The service is debating how effective such an aircraft would be against China or Russia, both which have sophisticated anti-aircraft defences that make it difficult to fly over their sovereign territory and drop bombs.
Porter Airlines delays restart to 31 August
Canada’s Porter Airlines will restart its operations a month later than previously planned due to ongoing coronavirus-prompted travel restrictions that continue to make business difficult.
FAA approves the start of 737 Max certification flights
The Federal Aviation Administration confirms it has approved the start of Boeing 737 Max certification flights, clearing the way for that phase of the certification process to begin as early as 29 June.
US Navy looks for new small ship-borne UAV for possible $1bn programme
The US Navy is planning a flight demonstration and possible prototyping competition to help find a new ship-borne unmanned air vehicle.
United reinstates flights to Asia
United Airlines will resume flights between the US and several destinations in Asia next month.
MQ-9A Reaper demonstrates new automatic take-off and landing capabilities
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has demonstrated three new automatic takeoff and landing capabilities for its MQ-9A Reaper unmanned air vehicle.
US airlines pledge to refund fares of travellers denied boarding due to fever
Major US airlines have promised to refund the cost of tickets for passengers who are denied boarding because of elevated temperatures, which could be a symptom of coronavirus.
Vu Systems completes flight testing of passive millimetre wave sensor
Vu Systems has completed development flight testing of what it describes as “civil aviation’s first passive millimetre wave (PMMW) sensor”, which promises to revolutionise operations in low-visibility minima.
Spirit’s struggles show suppliers can expect little ‘relief’ from Max return
News that Spirit AeroSystems has again cut 2020 production of Boeing 737 components sent another ripple of discouragement through an already reeling aerospace industry.
Air Canada chief executive blasts government for maintaining travel restrictions
Air Canada’s chief executive Calin Rovinescu excoriated the government of Canada for maintaining draconian coronavirus-prompted travel restrictions across the country, hindering the air transport industry’s ability to return to any semblance of normal operations.
Sikorsky CH-53K finishes two-week sea trials in Atlantic Ocean
Sea trials included blade fold; launch and recovery; rotor start and shutdown; and shipboard compatibility testing. The tests were done in increasing wind speeds and with wind coming from different directions to simulate adverse conditions on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier.
WestJet permanently cuts more than 3,000 jobs
Canada’s WestJet has permanently cut more than one third of its remaining workforce as the effects of the pandemic force the airline to reduce and outsource services in an effort to continue cutting costs.
First Bell Boeing CMV-22B delivered for US Navy fleet operations
The service plans to replace the Grumman C-2A Greyhound with the Osprey for aircraft carrier onboard delivery missions, including the replacement of the F-35C’s engine, the Pratt & Whitney F135 turbofan.
Airbus cancels plan to develop its own A320neo nacelle
The coronavirus downturn has led Airbus to scrap its planned development of an A320neo engine nacelle that would have competed with nacelles produced by supplier Collins Aerospace.
FAA requires inspections of 737 Max wire shields to address electrical risks
The Federal Aviation Administration his finalised a rule requiring that operators inspect Boeing 737 Max wiring shields for issues that could, in extreme circumstances, cause dual-engine failures or erroneous engine data.
P&W’s North Berwick plant to add PW1100G MRO capability
Pratt & Whitney will be expanding its North Berwick, Maine, facility to include MRO capabilities for the PW1100G geared turbofan.
Congressional watchdog urges DOT to create coronavirus prevention plan
The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) has again recommended the US Department of Transportation (DOT) develop a national aviation preparedness plan to respond to communicable diseases like the coronavirus pandemic which brought the air transport industry to a near-standstill earlier this year.
ZeroAvia claims UK first with flight of electric-powered Piper M350
Californian propulsion developer ZeroAvia has conducted what it claims is the UK’s “first electric-powered flight of a commercial-scale aircraft”, with a converted Piper M350 piston-single taking off on 22 June from Cranfield airport.
Alaska Airlines to bring E175s to Alaska
Alaska Airlines will be adding Embraer 175 regional jets to its fleet flying within the state of Alaska, bringing in the smaller-gauge aircraft on routes that would not be profitable using larger jets.
Honeywell starts flight testing autonomous landing system for urban air mobility vehicles
Honeywell Aerospace has begun flight testing an automated system that will help urban air mobility (UAM) vehicles land autonomously.
American adds $2bn to balance sheet
American Airlines has priced its common stock offering and convertible bond raising nearly $2 billion.
Spirit cuts 737 production again, warns of financial fallout
Spirit AeroSystems has again slashed its expected output of Boeing 737 fuselages and other components to just 72 shipments in 2020, while warning it could breach financial agreements before year-end.
Air Canada raises additional C$1.23bn in cash
Air Canada has raised additional liquidity to help keep itself afloat as the coronavirus pandemic drags on.
Layoffs expected when pay support ends for US carriers
Air travel may not return to pre-coronavirus levels until at least 2023, so US carriers are making plans to downsize their employee base, echoing the warnings of transportation analysts that the industry is “staff heavy” for the market reeling from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
US Air Force considers ways to recruit commercial pilots
The service’s Air Education and Training Command has not yet established new career paths, but is exploring the idea of recruiting experienced commercial pilots or civilians within commercial pilot training programmes.
Delta resumes flights to China this week
Delta Air Lines will resume flights between the US and China, the first US carrier to do so since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, as travel restrictions and regulatory sparring between the two countries’ aviation authorities ease.
Learjet 60 operators told to fit reverser alert 12 years after fatal overrun
Over a decade since a fatal Bombardier Learjet 60 overrun in South Carolina, operators of the type are being ordered to install a voice-command warning system to alert pilots to thrust-reverser malfunctions.
Kratos Defense plans to fund more acquisitions with $209m stock sale
The company has acquired several businesses in recent years including satellite antenna manufacturer ASC Signal, as well as small jet turbine manufacturers Technical Directions and Florida Turbine Technologies.
US DOT fines Spirit Airlines $350,000 mischaracterising bumped passengers
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has fined ultra-low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines $350,000 for mischaracterising passengers who were involuntarily denied boarding on overbooked flights as “volunteers” and then undercompensating them.
Textron Aviation parent to eliminate 1,950 jobs
Textron Inc., the parent company of the Wichita-based airframer Textron Aviation and helicopter manufacturer Bell, says it is eliminating 1,950 jobs as part of a restructuring programme made necessary by the effects of the global coronavirus pandemic.
FAA plans to extend medical certificate exception for pilots
The Federal Aviation Administration will likely extend its medical certificate exception for an unspecificed amount of time, after coronavirus lockdown orders made it almost impossible for pilots to remain legally permitted to fly.
Business and general aviation leaders optimistic about rebound
Leaders in business and general aviation are cautiously optimistic that their slice of the industry will return to normal operations after the coronavirus pandemic more quickly than airlines, though economic uncertainty remains a dark and incalculable cloud.
Airline unions ask US lawmakers for more payroll money
The largest US pilots’ union has joined an effort to lobby lawmakers to provide more financial support to aviation workers affected by the airline industry downturn.
US Navy’s AARGM-ER completes critical design review
The service completed design verification tests of the AARGM-ER rocket motor and warhead, in addition to the critical design review of subsystems and system-level performance. The missile is a new air-launched weapon intended to destroy enemy radar and communications systems.
FAA report outlines changes to improve safety and certification oversight
A Federal Aviation Administration report completed in April establishes broad timelines for when the agency expects to implement a number of oversight changes, including creation of a safety management system (SMS) rule.
Mechanical failure ruled out of fatal CH-148 crash as RCAF lifts fleet grounding
Examination of flight data has allowed the Canadian government to piece together the helicopter’s last moments.
FAA chief defends agency as lawmakers decry lack of cooperation with Max inquiry
Lawmakers lobbed harsh, pointed criticism at the head of the Federal Aviation Administration on 17 June, accusing the agency of stonewalling congressional investigations into the certification of the Boeing 737 Max.
Boeing delivers first new-build F/A-18 Block III Super Hornets to US Navy
The company delivered one single-seat E model and one two-seat F model to the service.
USA eases ban on Chinese carriers
The US Department of Transport (DOT) has backed down from an earlier ban on Chinese carriers, allowing them to fly up to four weekly flights between Mainland China and the USA.
US airlines strengthen anti-coronavirus measures to inspire traveller confidence
As shelter-in-place orders are lifted across the United States, airlines are hoping to inspire traveller confidence by imposing stronger sanctions against passengers who refuse to wear face coverings on board their aircraft.
Canada approved to buy 50 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles for CF-18 Hornets
Until the Royal Canadian Air Force makes a decision on its next generation of fighter aircraft, it’ll have to rely on its aging fleet of classic McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A Hornets, known in Canada as the CF-18.
Current-generation aircraft ready for cargo conversions
The worldwide grounding of aircraft during the passenger travel downturn has led to a shortage in capacity for air freight delivery, increasing the incentive for airlines to convert Boeing 777s, 737NGs and other newer generation aircraft for cargo flights.
NASA hints at truss-braced X-plane to test technologies for next commercial narrowbody
NASA may develop a test aircraft to evaluate several next-generation, efficiency-improving technologies that could be incorporated into the next single-aisle commercial aircraft, which manufacturers will likely bring to market in the 2030s.
US Senate introduces safety bill after 737 Max investigation
The chairman of the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation has introduced a bill aimed at implementing the findings of its year-long investigation of two fatal Boeing 737 Max crashes and increasing oversight at the US Federal Aviation Administration.
Sikorsky-Boeing SB-1 Defiant tops 200kt for the first time
Within a few months, the Sikorsky-Boeing team is pushing for the helicopter to top 250kt – above the US Army’s 230kt cruise speed requirement for the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft programme.
GE Aviation and Embraer Commercial tap international sales experience with new CEOs
The new chief executives of GE Aviation and Embraer’s commercial aircraft division are well suited to help address the particular challenges facing those companies’ corners of the aerospace industry.
WestJet tests network demand with July schedule
Calgary-based WestJet in July and August will increase frequencies on its network and resume service to certain locations for a total of 39 destinations in Canada, five in the USA and one in Mexico as air travel slowly recovers.
HAPSMobile to flight test high-altitude, pseudo satellite HAWK30 in New Mexico
The flying-wing unmanned air vehicle is solar-powered and designed to stay aloft for six months.
Jim Taiclet takes over as Lockheed Martin CEO
As part of a planned succession, he takes over the reins of the USA’s largest defence manufacturer from former CEO Marillyn Hewson, who now will become executive chairman of the board.
United taps into MileagePlus programme for cash
United Airlines says it expects to have a total of $17 billion in liquidity by the end of the third quarter in part by leveraging its MilagePlus passenger loyalty programme, helping support the Chicago-based carrier through the unprecedented crisis that has gripped the travel industry since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.
Honeywell forms new business to advance drone and air taxi technology
Honeywell Aerospace has formed a new business unit designed to holistically support unmanned aerial systems and urban air mobility projects.
Embraer’s Slattery to succeed GE Aviation CEO Joyce
Embraer’s head of commercial aviation John Slattery will succeed David Joyce as chief executive of GE Aviation.
US government to distribute millions of face coverings to airports
The US government is sending nearly 100 million face coverings to airports and transportation agencies to help ensure travelers protect others from potential coronavirus spread as they use public transit and pass through these facilities.
US airlines take jets out of storage, add flights as recovery begins
North America’s airline industry has started a slow but noticeable recovery as carriers bring hundreds of jets back into service in response to a bump in travel demand ahead of the summer travel season.
Short-circuit could lead 777 thrust levers to advance during taxiing
Operators of Boeing 777s are being cautioned that autothrottles could trigger an uncommanded advancement of the throttle levers on the ground, after a number of instances.
FAA proposes GEnx disk inspections to address uncontained failure risk
The risk of uncontained engine failures has led the Federal Aviation Administration to propose requiring airlines to inspect disks inside the high-pressure turbines of some GE Aviation GEnx powerplants.
Pentagon awards $100m to Spirit AeroSystems and GE Aviation to shore up aerospace
The Pentagon plans to grant more awards overtime to subsidise companies that have been hurt by declining commercial business.
Transat-Air Canada merger pushed to fourth quarter
Transat AT, the parent company of Canadian holiday specialist Air Transat, says its merger with legacy carrier Air Canada is still on track and now due to close sometime in the fourth quarter of 2020.
Spirit AeroSystems cuts more staff and again trims 2020 737 production plan
Spirit AeroSystems is again cutting its workforce and has further reduced its expected 2020 production of 737 fuselages, a pullback coming in response to new direction from Boeing.
A321 hit windshear before short landing and tail-strike
US investigators have determined that an American Airlines Airbus A321 landed short of the runway and suffered a tail-strike after encountering a microburst on approach to Charlotte-Douglas airport.
Why the USAF is keen on car maker know-how for future fighter production
The service wants to mimic the way the car industry makes small improvements to car models year after year using digital design and engineering tools.
Block III Super Hornet conducts maiden sortie
Boeing has conducted the maiden flight of the first F/A-18 Super Hornet in the new Block III configuration.
Missing ‘lockwire’ caused 2015 767 fire at Fort Lauderdale
Maintenance failures led to a fuel spill that caused a Boeing 767-200ER operated by Dynamic International Airways to catch fire on the ground at Fort Lauderdale in 2015.
LaGuardia Terminal B arrivals hall opens
A new arrivals and departures hall at LaGuardia airport’s Central Terminal opened on 10 June, marking another stage in the completion of the terminal’s overhaul.
Boeing CEO lays out plan to combat racial discrimination
Boeing has pledged to take additional steps to promote diversity and equality and to address racial discrimination following nationwide protests calling for reforms to address inequality.
Boeing faces ‘critical few months’ amid pandemic: analysts
Aerospace industry analysts suspect regulators will re-certificate the 737 Max later this year, but they stress that the company’s challenges extend well beyond that programme.
American Airlines sees encouraging demand trend
American Airlines says it has transported an average of 127,000 passengers daily in June so far, up from a low of 32,000 passengers in April, as travelers once again take to the sky while the global coronavirus crisis enters its fourth month.
USAF, Boeing conduct critical design review for T-7A Red Hawk
The US Air Force and Boeing have conducted the critical design review for the developmental T-7A Red Hawk advanced jet trainer.
US flight attendants call for extension of government aid until year-end at minimum
The union representing US flight attendants has called on Congress to extend government financial assistance for airlines through the end of the year.
USAF General Charles Brown confirmed as first African American service chief in US history
General Charles Q Brown was confirmed to be the next US Air Force chief of staff by the US Senate in a vote of 98 to 0.
Flight tests show new B61-12 nuclear bomb compatible with F-15E Strike Eagle
The demonstrations, carried out with a mock weapon, come ahead of the fighter being certificated to carry the nuke, says Sandia National Laboratories.
Pilots face career anxiety after coronavirus disruption
With furloughs on the horizon, pilots stress about careers while airlines worry about future pilot pipelines.
