Can Boeing revive Dreamliner magic?
As the first decade of service from the 787 nears an end, can Boeing overcome sluggish demand and production snags to revive its early magic experience with the Dreamliner?
US airlines recruit to beat pilot ‘re-shortage’
A year and a half after Covid-19 wiped out the pilot shortage, the industry is once again wondering where it will find the flight crew to accommodate the rapid, uneven rebound to pre-pandemic levels and beyond.
Cirrus delivers with latest Vision of success
Having already impressed with earlier versions of its SF50 Vision Jet, Cirrus has again raised the bar with the newly available G2+ model, offering enhanced performance and new safety features.
Environmental focus takes centre stage for NBAA
The business aviation industry will use this year’s gathering to take stock of its sustainability credentials at a show expected to place more emphasis on the environment than ever before.
Air taxi investment booms, but could ‘bubble’ burst?
Air taxi developers have been buoyed by major recent investments in their advanced air mobility projects, but now the hard work begins on the path to achieving certification and service entry.
Betting on BACE
Despite worries about the pandemic’s effect on attendance, this year’s business aviation event in Las Vegas will cater for a booming sector awaiting a number of potentially disruptive developments.
Ten years since service start, has the 787 delivered Boeing’s promises?
With its manufacturing innovation and use of a global supply chain, the 787 has been a big sales success. But its first 10 years of service have also represented a major learning curve for Boeing.
First USAF F-35As stationed in Europe due at RAF Lakenheath in December
The US Air Force’s first Lockheed Martin F-35A stealth fighters to be permanently stationed in Europe are expected to arrive at RAF Lakenheath in the UK this December.
Dismissals imminent, United reports most staff are vaccinated ahead of mandate
With its vaccine mandate set to take effect in five days, United Airlines reports that the vast majority of its workers have received the required jabs.
JetBlue ‘beholden’ to American under Northeast pact: US government
The US government’s case against the American Airlines-JetBlue Airways alliance rests largely on the argument that the deal leaves JetBlue overly dependent on much-larger American.
US Navy to test block upgrade for F-5 aggressors
The US Navy (USN) is set to commence testing with an upgraded version of the Northrop F-5N fighter, setting the stage for the block upgrade of 22 former Swiss Air Force F-5E/F fighters, which will serve in the aggressor role.
Red 6 to install augmented reality headset in multiple T-38 jets
Start-up Red 6 has won a contract to install its augmented reality headset into multiple US Air Force (USAF) Northrop T-38 Talon jet trainers.
JASSM-ER launch from MC-130J to help prove ‘Rapid Dragon’ pallet concept
Lockheed Martin plans to demonstrate the ability to launch a Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile-Extended Range (JASSM-ER) from the back of an MC-130J transport by the end of the year, as it works to develop a palletised launch system called ‘Rapid Dragon’.
DOJ sues to unwind American-JetBlue alliance, carriers pledge to fight
The US Department of Justice confirms it has sued in US federal court to force American Airlines and JetBlue Airways to scuttle their partnership in the Northeast USA, alleging the pact violates US anti-trust laws.
American and JetBlue defend Northeast partnership amid reports of US anti-trust challenge
American Airlines and JetBlue Airways are on the defensive following news that the Department of Justice intends to challenge their newly established alliance in the Northeast USA.
Kaman unveils Kargo UAV for autonomous resupply duties
Kaman has unveiled a new unmanned air vehicle design optimised for autonomous expeditionary logistics operations, such as those performed by the US Marine Corps.
USAF reveals that five, not two, B-21 test aircraft in production
The secretary of the US Air Force (USAF) has disclosed that five test examples of the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider stealth bomber have entered production at Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California.
Retire old aircraft or risk losing to China: USAF secretary
Frank Kendall, secretary of the US Air Force (USAF), says local politics threaten to weaken the air force by burdening it with outdated aircraft.
Republic Airways to move headquarters, training centre to Indianapolis suburb
US regional airline behemoth Republic Airways is opening a new corporate headquarters and training centre in the Indianapolis suburb of Carmel.
US airlines rejoice at lifting of US bans on inbound travellers
US airlines have finally received the gift they so long sought from the administration of president Joe Biden: a full opening of the USA to foreign travellers.
USAF secretary asks ‘hard questions’ of Advanced Battle Management System
Secretary of the US Air Force Frank Kendall is forcing a reassessment of one of the service’s highest development priorities, its Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS), after asking “hard questions” of the imagined battlefield network and receiving “answers that weren’t that good”.
Eremenko’s Universal Hydrogen to open Toulouse facility
US hydrogen-fuel developer Universal Hydrogen is opening an engineering and design center in Toulouse, France – a move furthering alignment between the start-up and Airbus, which has been working on a hydrogen-fueled aircraft concept.
JetBlue and Spirit vie for 16 available Newark slots
JetBlue Airways and Spirit Airlines have applied with the US Department of Transportation to received more than a dozen newly available take-off and landing slots at Newark Liberty International airport.
Full rendezvous with reality is still ahead from some airlines
A struggle might be approaching for operators that need to access new equity amid a lack of appetite in the market, writes CTAIRA analyst Chris Tarry
Boeing to build MQ-25As at MidAmerica St Louis Airport
Boeing will build a new factory in St. Louis to build the MQ-25A Stingray unmanned air vehicle (UAV) for the US Navy (USN).
US airlines could miss 2021 profit targets as end-of-year travel demand sags
US airlines may struggle to meet already trimmed 2021 financial targets due to the persistence of Covid-19, which continues eroding demand for autumn and winter travel despite a strong summer period.
Lockheed Martin unveils ‘LMXT’ in-flight refuelling tanker
Lockheed Martin has unveiled its bid for the US Air Force’s KC-Y in-flight refuelling tanker programme: the LMXT.
United to serve Lagos from Washington DC
United Airlines will launch flights to Lagos in Nigeria from Washington DC on 29 November.
US government to grant 16 Newark slots to a discount airline
The US Department of Transportation is making 16 take-off and landing slots at Newark Liberty International airport available to a single US low-cost airline.
General Atomics eyes Arctic Circle operations with MQ-9A ‘Big Wing’ demo
As global warming melts Arctic Ocean ice pack, leaving more open water for transit by Chinese and Russian ships, Washington is looking for new ways to keep an eye on the frigid region. One possibility: unmanned air vehicles that can keep watch from above.
Bombardier chief talks ‘options’ for next clean-sheet aircraft as transformation wraps up
CEO Martel declines to specify where Bombardier might next deploy its impressive engineering heft but says the company is evaluating several potential new jets.
AFSOC aims to design, build and fly amphibious C-130 in 17 months
The US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) plans to design, build and fly an amphibious retrofit kit for the Lockheed Martin MC-130J in 17 months.
American to invest $200 million in Gol, expand marketing pact
American Airlines plans to acquire about 5% of Brazilian carrier Gol’s shares for R1.05 billion ($200 million) as part of a plan by the airlines to expand an existing marketing and codeshare agreement.
IATA AGM and COP26 are pivotal moments for airline sustainability challenge
IATA has already promised that this October’s AGM meeting in Boston will consider more ambitious sustainability targets. Then, a month later, the UN will convene in Glasgow for its latest climate change conference, COP26.
Archer Aviation to become publicly traded on 17 September
Shareholders of shell company Atlas Crest Investment have approved a merger with US air taxi developer Archer Aviation, putting that company on track to become publicly traded on 17 September.
MQ-25 tanker refuels F-35C stealth fighter for first time
A Boeing-owned MQ-25A Stingray unmanned air vehicle (UAV) refuelled a Lockheed Martin F-35C stealth fighter in flight for the first time.
Boeing logged 23 net new aircraft orders in August, 787 deliveries still stalled
Boeing continued padding its order backlog in August, a month during which the company again logged more new orders than cancellations.
Bombardier refreshes Challenger 350 with new 3500 model, aims for certification next year
Bombardier has dropped the curtain on a cabin mock-up of a refreshed version of its Challenger 350 super-midsize business jet – a new variant called the Challenger 3500, for service entry in the second half of 2022.
Massive aircraft order solves just part of United’s fleet-renewal challenge
United Airlines bold order for 270 narrowbodies in June formed part of an ambitious seat upgauge and product enhancement plan. But as consultants René Armas Maes and Jonathan Norman write, achieving its ambitions depends on how the fleet renewal is implemented.
Strauss to leave Amerijet as Karjian steps in as interim chief
Amerijet has appointed Vic Karjian as interim chief executive as the cargo carrier searches for a replacement for Tim Strauss.
Boeing yet to restore 20-year global fleet outlook to pre-crisis 50,000 mark
Boeing is yet to restore its 20-year global fleet forecast to the 50,000 mark it predicted in its pre-crisis outlook, although its latest projection is still higher than that foreseen last year.
Southwest Airlines president retires; COO to take over
Southwest Airlines’ president Tom Nealon has stepped down from his post effective immediately, the latest senior leadership change at the low-cost carrier.
Lockheed agrees to $30,000 per flight hour cost for F-35A by FY2023
The F-35 Joint Program Office has awarded Lockheed Martin a sustainment contract for the F-35 that commits the company to reduce the operating cost of the stealth fighter to $30,000 per flight hour by fiscal year 2023, down 10.7% from FY2020.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: September 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
US carrier Breeze raises A220 order to 80 aircraft
US carrier Breeze Airways is ordering another 20 Airbus A220-300s, as it prepares to receive its first of the type in the fourth quarter.
US firm Mammoth to offer 777-200LR and -300ER freighter conversions
US based firm Mammoth Freighters has joined the line-up of companies aiming to offer Boeing 777 cargo conversions, with a portfolio covering the long-range -200LR and -300ER models.
FAA grants $100m in technology development contracts to major US aerospace manufacturers
Several major US aerospace companies – including Boeing, GE Aviation, Honeywell Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney – have won US government contracts to develop emission- and noise-reducing aerospace technologies.
CH-53K King Stallion heavy lift helicopter flies first mission
The US Marine Corps’ CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter flew its first mission on 5 September, retrieving a downed MH-60S Knighthawk utility helicopter that was sitting on a high-altitude ridge near the California-Nevada border.
321 Precision picks HAECO for A321-200PCF conversion work
Aircraft conversion shop 321 Precision Conversions has picked HAECO Americas for heavy maintenance and structural modifications for its Airbus A321 passenger-to-freighter conversions.
Northrop Grumman unveils Model 437 loyal wingman concept
Northrop Grumman has unveiled a new unmanned air vehicle concept called the Model 437 that is aimed at the US Air Force’s Skyborg programme and other international loyal wingman development efforts.
US airlines pledge 33% more ‘sustainable fuel’ by 2030
US airlines plan to make 11.4 billion litres (3 billion USgal) of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) available to aircraft operators by 2030 – up 33% from a previous target of 7.6 billion litres.
Injuries reported following Cape Air Cessna 402 accident at Provincetown
Passengers are reportedly injured after a Cape Air Cessna 402 crashed while attempting to land at Provincetown Municipal airport in Massachusetts on 9 September.
Skydweller grows funding round to $40m, adds Palantir as AI partner
Skydweller Aero, a start-up developing a long-endurance, solar-powered unmanned air vehicle, has raised $8 million in additional Series A funding and signed an agreement to use Palantir’s Foundry artificial intelligence program to analyse data gathered by the drone.
Following competitors, American trims financial forecast, citing ‘Delta’ variant
American Airlines has joined other US carriers in reducing its earnings forecast for the third quarter as the coronavirus “Delta” variant continues to play havoc with the travel industry.
United cuts Q3 earnings expectation as ‘Delta’ variant slows bookings
United Airlines has seen “deceleration” of third-quarter income due to increased fear among travellers about the “Delta” variant of Covid-19.
Transat remains optimistic despite another minimal-revenue quarter
A six-month operational pause left Transat AT with another quarter lacking significant revenue, though more cash has been flowing in since subsidiary Air Transat restarted flights at the end of July.
JetBlue trims Q3 revenue expectation as Covid impact continues
JetBlue Airways is the latest US airline to trim its third-quarter financial projections in response to booking “softness” due to still-high rates of coronavirus infections.
US business-travel rebound still months away: Delta CEO
Not long ago, US airline executives expected a business-travel rebound would take hold this autumn. Now, Delta Air Lines chief executive Ed Bastian says his team thinks the US business-travel rebound will begin later this year or, perhaps, early next year.
FAA orders some PW1100G disk replacements, citing V2500 failure
The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered airlines to replace disks in some Pratt & Whitney PW1100G turbofans, saying the powerplants could have the same problem that caused the 2020 uncontained failure of an International Aero Engines (IAE) V2500.
Hawaiian resumes flying to American Samoa
Hawaiian Airlines will reinstate non-stop flights to American Samoa, the only scheduled passenger airline to fly to the US territory in the south Pacific Ocean, after an almost 18-month break.
Porter restarts service after 18-month shutdown
Canadian regional carrier Porter Airlines restarted flights on 8 September after an 18-month coronavirus-driven pause.
Sikorsky-Boeing makes ‘early’ US Army FLRAA proposal with Defiant X
A Sikorsky-Boeing team has submitted its Defiant X rotorcraft proposal “early” for the US Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) programme.
JetBlue appoints Hurley as new CFO
JetBlue Airways has appointed Ursula Hurley to be its new chief financial officer.
Archer Aviation completes early step in eVTOL certification
US start-up Archer Aviation has completed an early milestone in its quest to achieve US certification for its in-development air taxi, though much work remains before the Federal Aviation Administration clears the company’s vertical-take-off aircraft concept.
Air Canada Rouge restarts flights
Air Canada’s low-cost leisure subsidiary Air Canada Rouge has restarted flight operations after a seven-month coronavirus-driven pause.
Boeing, Lockheed and Raytheon to design USAF’s ‘SCIFiRE’ hypersonic missiles
The US Air Force (USAF) has granted Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon separate contracts to develop air-breathing, hypersonic cruise missiles.
Wright starts testing crucial high-power electric aviation motor component
US-based propulsion technology specialist Wright Electric has begun testing a 2MW electric powertrain to support development of a zero-emission aircraft.
Raytheon flight tests Coyote air-launched effect
As part of the test, the unmanned air vehicle was launched from a canister on the ground, successfully spread its wings and then established stable flight.
Europe’s airlines acutely aware that winter is coming
There are reasons to be cheerful about Europe’s recent performance. But the outlook for the coming winter season on the passenger side of the business remains awash with uncertainty.
July a solid month for air cargo but risks remain: IATA
July was another solid month for the air cargo industry, but rising Covid numbers could disrupt the sector’s recovery, according to IATA.
US FAA grounds Virgin Galactic over mishap investigations
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has grounded Virgin Galactic as it completes an investigation into an incident involving SpaceShipTwo during its July 11 flight.
US Air Force demos ‘low-cost’ strike on maritime targets using JDAM
Three Boeing F-15E Strike Eagle fighters demonstrated new tactics, techniques and procedures for dropping modified GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) on moving and stationary maritime targets on 26 August.
Leonardo Osprey radar to boost Canadian environmental monitoring Dash 8
Ottawa is to boost the capability of its National Aerial Surveillance Program (NASP) fleet, with one of its De Havilland Canada Dash 8s to be equipped with Leonardo’s Osprey maritime search radar.
NASA and Joby kick off eVTOL flight tests
NASA and US air taxi developer Joby Aviation have started a ten-day flight-test programme using Joby’s in-development air taxi – part of a NASA effort to help advance “urban air mobility” technology.
US start-up GlobalX ferried 1,000 evacuees from Kabul just weeks after launch
Global Crossing Airlines, a charter carrier that launched flights in August, says its two aircraft flew numerous missions to and from Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International airport as part of the US government’s evacuation effort last month.
US charter carrier GlobalX scores $1.4m in revenue in first month
Global Crossing Airlines, a start-up charter carrier based in Miami, booked 175 operating hours and $1.4 million in revenue during its first month in business.
Assets held by shuttered supersonic developer Aerion up for sale
Assets held by Aerion, the now-shuttered Nevada company that had been developing a supersonic business jet, are up for sale.
Martin UAV flight tests advanced V-BAT drone, demonstrates ‘GPS-denied navigation’
Martin UAV recently flight tested its V-BAT unmanned air vehicle (UAV) equipped with a “GPS-denied navigation” system – navigation technology that does not rely on GPS signals.
Airline Business Index scores industry at two-thirds of pre-Covid size
The latest quarterly Airline Business Index shows the global airline industry reached exactly two-thirds of its pre-crisis size at the mid-point of 2021.
Former GE Aviation chief Joyce joins Boeing’s board, bringing aerospace manufacturing know-how
Boeing’s board of directors has elected former GE Aviation chief executive David Joyce as a new member and disclosed the pending retirement of longtime board member Edmund Giambastiani.
L3Harris flies US Army’s Bombardier Global 6500-based ARES for first time
L3Harris Technologies has flown the US Army’s Airborne Reconnaissance and Electronic Warfare System (ARES) aircraft for the first time.
Attendees of October’s NBAA-BACE must be vaccinated: NBAA
The National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA) 2021 annual trade show will go on despite the pandemic, but the group is now requiring attendees be vaccinated. Face masks, however, will likely be optional for attendees, the group says on 31 August.
Envoy E175 mid-air strike involved a balloon, not a drone
An Envoy Air regional jet that reportedly hit a drone while in flight on 22 August did not hit a drone after all.
Alaska applies to DOT for codeshare with Iberia
Alaska Airlines and its regional airline affiliates Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines have applied to the US Department of Transportation (DOT) for permission to codeshare with its Oneworld partner, Spain’s Iberia.
Atlas Air to establish Incheon MRO shop with Sharp Technics
US cargo carrier Atlas Air and South Korean aviation maintenance firm Sharp Technics K will jointly establish a maintenance, repair and overhaul facility at Incheon International airport, a move that will enable Atlas to further expand in the Asia-Pacific region.
Collins to purchase flight tracking company FlightAware
Collins Aerospace intends to acquire flight tracking company FlightAware for an undisclosed price, a move that stands to expand Collins’ avionics business.
Kratos demonstrates Air Wolf attritable UAV
Air Wolf appears to be a variation of the MQM-178 Firejet target drone.
New Italian operator ITA seeks authorisation to serve US gateways
New Italian national airline Italia Trasporto Aereo is formally seeking authorisation to open transatlantic services to several US cities.
IATA calls for vaccine status standard as tourism body issues AstraZeneca warning
IATA has called for the EU’s Digital Covid Certificate (DCC) to become the global standard for proof of vaccination status, the day after the global tourism industry warned that issues over the recognition of different vaccine types could stymie the international travel recovery.
AARGM-ER weapon poised to enter production
The Northrop Grumman AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile – Extended Range (AARGM-ER) is poised to enter production.
United Rotorcraft orders five S-70s for Firehawk conversion
United Rotorcraft has ordered five Sikorsky S-70 helicopters for conversion to the Firehawk firefighting configuration.
Textron’s Beechcraft Denali completes ground engine runs
Textron Aviation’s in-development Beechcraft Denali turboprop has successfully completed ground engine runs, moving the aircraft closer to a first flight, currently planned to take place by the end of the year.
Bristow and Electra Aero agree to develop eSTOL
Helicopter operator Bristow Group has signed an agreement to help Electra Aero develop its self-charging hybrid-electric short take-off and landing (eSTOL) aircraft, and plans to purchase 50 examples as Electra’s launch customer.
Air Canada to mandate Covid-19 vaccines for all employees
Air Canada will require all employees be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus by 30 October.
Delta will charge employees who refuse Covid-19 vaccination
Delta Air Lines will hike the health insurance premiums of employees who are not vaccinated against Covid-19 starting 1 November.
American Airlines’ Q3 revenue ‘trending below forecast’
American Airlines is experiencing a dip in its recovery as fears of the coronavirus’ more-virulent “Delta” variant are causing hesitancy among customers.
United to continue Civil Air Reserve humanitarian flights
United Airlines will continue to fly humanitarian missions as part of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF) “over the next several days at least”, the carrier says.
Collins, Air National Guard boost KC-135 connectivity
Collins Aerospace and a US Air National Guard (ANG) unit have demonstrated the potential of a new networked command and control function, showcasing the technology’s benefits during a test flight with a uniquely-adapted Boeing KC-135 tanker.
Delta orders another 30 A321neos
Delta Air Lines has ordered another 30 Airbus A321neos, bringing its total firm orders for airframer’s largest narrowbody to 155 aircraft, deliveries of which are scheduled to start in the first half of 2022.
Envoy E175 struck drone during climb-out from Chicago O’Hare
US authorities have disclosed that an Envoy Air Embraer 175 appeared to collide with an unmanned aerial vehicle while departing from Chicago O’Hare.
Boeing shuffles commercial engineering roles
Boeing is shuffling some top commercial aircraft engineering positions, starting with making chief commercial engineer Lynne Hopper its next vice-president and general manager for engineering strategy and operations.
Emerald Airlines to lease ATRs from Chorus Aviation
Canadian aircraft lessor Chorus Aviation Capital will lease six ATR 72-600 turboprops to start-up Irish regional carrier Emerald Airlines.
US military activates civil aviation for humanitarian airlift
The US military has asked airlines to participate in the humanitarian and diplomatic airlift from Afghanistan.
US FAA bans commercial overflights of Afghanistan airspace
US commercial carriers have been banned from operating within Afghanistan’s airspace, in a further tightening of restrictions following the deterioration of the country’s political stability.
FAA fines against ‘unruly’ passengers top $1m in 2021
The Federal Aviation Administration has fined passengers another $500,000 for disruptive and violent behaviour aboard aircraft, bringing the total amount of civil penalties levied by the agency for such offences in 2021 to more than $1 million.
Avelo to launch flights between New Haven and Florida
Avelo Airlines will provide service to four popular beach destinations in Florida when it launches its new East Coast US base at Tweed New Haven airport in Connecticut.
Virgin Atlantic signals intent to use proposed UK carbon-capture facility
Virgin Atlantic has signed a memorandum of understanding to become a customer for a proposed direct air capture (DAC) facility in Scotland.
Stingray tanker aces Hawkeye refuelling test
Boeing’s MQ-25 Stingray unmanned tanker test asset T1 has completed its second in-flight refuelling, this time supporting a US Navy Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye.
El Al inspects 737 in-flight connectivity radomes for attachment cracks
US regulators are instructing de-activation and removal of specific external in-flight connectivity systems from Boeing 737-800 and -900ER jets, citing the risk that the radome and antenna could detach as a result of cracked attachment fittings.
US imposes capacity limits on Chinese carriers
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) will impose a 40% capacity limit on Chinese airlines flying into the US, following a similar move by Beijing on four United Airlines flights to the Chinese mainland.
Breeze snags another $200m investment
US start-up carrier Breeze Airways has secured another $200 million in funding less than three months after beginning flights.
Porter becomes first Canadian carrier to mandate coronavirus vaccine or negative test
Porter Airlines is the first Canadian carrier to require employees be vaccinated against Covid-19 or present a negative test result.
FAA order targets PW1500G and PW1900G high-pressure compressors
In a move responding to inflight engine shutdowns, the Federal Aviation Administration is requiring airlines to replace components in the high-pressure compressors (HPC) of Pratt & Whitney PW1500G and PW1900G turbofans.
US to extend mask requirement in airports and aircraft
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is reportedly preparing to extend its mandatory face covering mandate for airports and aircraft into January 2022.
Former Embraer CEO Silva becomes advisor to electric-aircraft start-up Airflow
Former Embraer chief executive Paulo Cesar de Souza e Silva has become advisor to US electric aircraft developer Airflow, which now says it has secured sales commitments worth $600 million.
General Atomics, Kratos win additional funds for Skyborg work
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Kratos have secured additional funding related to their work on the US Air Force’s Skyborg Vanguard programme, which seeks to develop autonomous combat aircraft.
Spirit’s operational meltdown cost $50m; expects Q3 loss
Spirit Airlines has cut its third-quarter revenue expectations after cancelling thousands of flights due to weather and staffing issues.
Alaska orders another 12 737 Max 9s
Alaska Airlines has ordered another 12 Boeing 737 Max 9s and taken 25 new purchase options – a deal handing another needed win to Boeing’s rebounding narrowbody programme.
Boeing details 737NG nacelle redesign following 2018 in-flight failure, asks for exemption
Boeing has disclosed details about “structural enhancements” it has developed for 737NG nacelles to ensure nacelles maintain integrity in the event of fan blade failures.
Canada to require air travellers be fully vaccinated
Canada will require all air, rail and marine passengers to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 by the end of October.
Embraer’s Eve partners with Kenya Airways
Embraer-backed air taxi developer Eve Urban Air Mobility Solutions has launched a collaboration with Kenya Airways to develop a market for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in that African country.
Bell shows 360 Invictus scout helicopter more than 50% complete
Bell’s 360 Invictus scout helicopter prototype, its bid for the US Army’s Future Attack Reconnaisance Aircraft (FARA) programme, is more than 50% complete.
Lockheed Martin finishes construction of new Skunk Works manufacturing plant
Lockheed Martin has finished constructing an “advanced manufacturing facility” at its Skunk Works headquarters in Palmdale, California – a site at which the company intends to manufacture unspecified products using new techniques.
Delta variant reminds US airlines to take nothing for granted
As countries around the world are finding, the highly transmissible Delta variant of Covid-19 changes the game somewhat
Canadian airlines welcome government plan for vaccination passport
Canadian airlines are welcoming the goverment’s plan to create a digital vaccination passport for international travellers, to be rolled out within weeks.
General Atomics Avenger uses Legion Pod’s infrared search and track to follow target
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems demonstrated in July one of its Avenger unmanned air vehicles autonomously tracking and following multiple targets using a Lockheed Martin Legion Pod’s infrared search and track capability.
JetBlue set to launch inaugural transatlantic flight
JetBlue Airways is scheduled to launch its inagural flight to London on 11 August.
Archer Aviation seeks $1bn in damages from competitor Wisk
Archer Aviation is seeking $1 billion in damages from air taxi rival Wisk Aero in an increasingly acrimonious legal fight about stolen trade secrets.
US Army funds development of robotic refuelling for AH-64 Apache attack helicopters
The US Army granted start-up RE2 Robotics a $1 million contract to develop a robotic arm for the purpose of autonomously refuelling Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopters in the field.
Air taxi developer Joby Aviation becomes publicly traded company
Start-up air taxi developer Joby Aviation has become a publicly traded company by merging with investment firm Reinvent Technologies Partners.
US charter carrier Global Crossing Airlines begins passenger operations
Global Crossing Airlines, a charter carrier based in Miami, has begun passenger operations.
Southwest cuts third-quarter financial expectations as Covid-19 infections surge
Southwest Airlines has trimmed its third-quarter revenue forecast to reflect declining demand for air travel and a jump in ticket cancellations – both stemming from surging Covid-19 infections.
US Senate confirms Homendy as next NTSB Chair
Aviation lobby groups have welcomed the US Senate’s confirmation of Jennifer Homendy as the next and 15th chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Wake up: US airlines warn smelling-salt shortage could cause flight cancellations
US airlines are asking regulators to wake up to a shortage of smelling salts, also called ammonia inhalants.
F-15C downs target drone using AMRAAM guided by infrared search-and-track
A US Air Force F-15C Boeing Eagle for the first time downed a QF-16 target drone using a Raytheon AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) guided by an infrared search-and-track system.
Boeing logs 31 aircraft orders, 17 cancellations in July
Sales of 31 new commercial jets helped Boeing’s backlog to tick higher in July, despite continued airline cancellations.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: August 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Norse Atlantic expects to operate 15 longship-liveried 787s by mid-2022
Norse Atlantic Airways plans to have 15 Boeing 787s in service by summer 2022, the Scandinavian start-up said today as it unveiled its longboat-inspired livery.
Hydrogen-electric firm ZeroAvia tests high-thrust powertrain on truck
Advanced propulsion specialist ZeroAvia has conducted high-power ground tests of a powertrain intended to support a hydrogen-electric engine for 19-seat regional aircraft.
Structural modification begins on first 777-300ER freighter conversion
Conversion of the first passenger Boeing 777-300ER into a freighter has formally commenced under a programme overseen by Israel Aerospace Industries and leasing firm GECAS.
Antonov seeking Canadian support to modernise An-74TK-200
Antonov is hoping to reach an agreement with Canadian authorities on development of a extensively-modernised version of the An-74TK-200 airlifter for North American and other international markets.
Rolls-Royce to participate in hypersonic work at Purdue
Rolls-Royce will support research into hypersonic technology at a new testing facility to be located at America’s Purdue University.
SkyWest orders 16 new Embraer 175s for Delta
Regional carrier SkyWest Airlines will purchase 16 new Embraer 175s to operate for Delta Air Lines.
S-64 Air Crane helicopter maker Erickson eyes ‘strategic alternatives’ to boost growth
Helicopter maker Erickson is exploring “strategic alternatives” for the purpose of expanding its helicopter operations, manufacturing and MRO divisions.
Canada open to fully-vaccinated US travellers
Canada has opened its border to fully-vaccinated US citizens after a 17-month closure.
What does the IPCC’s climate-change report say about aviation?
The IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report, addressing the most up-to-date understanding of climate change, is another reminder of the pressing need for the aviation sector to reduce its environmental footprint.
Boeing to move 737 fan cowl manufacturing from Airbus to Turkish Aerospace and India’s Tata
Boeing is making a supply chain shift that will see Turkish Aerospace and India’s Tata Advanced Systems take over 737 fan cowl production from Airbus in around 2025.
Why two aircraft lessors have not jumped into the electric-aircraft craze
Some top aircraft lessors remain unconvinced about the viability of electric passenger aircraft and whether in-development air taxis and other first-generation electric types even fit within their leasing business models.
787 delivery delays could prompt penalty free cancellations: Air Lease
Boeing’s 787 delivery delays could potentially allow some customers to cancel orders without penalties, taking advantage of the same contract clauses that recently allowed some 737 Max buyers to back out.
Frontier joins United in requiring all employees be vaccinated
Following United Airlines’ lead, Frontier Airlines will require all employees to be vaccinated against the coronavirus from 1 October.
Citing aircraft production issues, Air Lease cuts 2021 delivery expectations
Airbus and Boeing production problems have led aircraft lessor Air Lease to slash the number of new jets it expects to receive in the second half of 2021.
US Navy eyes programme of record for cargo drones to resupply ships
The US Navy is thinking about creating a programme of record to buy small cargo drones for ship-to-ship resupply missions.
Spirit says it will return to normal operations ‘next week’
Spirit Airlines expects to resume normal operations by the middle of next week after the airline was forced to cancel thousands of flights in the past six days due to staffing and weather issues.
FAA order addresses risk of fire suppression problem in 737 cargo compartments
Concern about fire suppression has led the Federal Aviation Administration to prohibit airlines from carrying cargo in the aft holds of Boeing 737s that have failed air conditioning airflow systems.
United to require vaccines for all US-based employees
United Airlines is the first US passenger air carrier to require all US-based employees to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
Boeing spins off HorizonX, forms new venture with AEI
Boeing and AE Industrial Partners (AEI) have formed a new joint venture for early stage investments in promising aerospace technologies.
Sightseeing Beaver suffers fatal crash in Alaska
A De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver operated by Southeast Aviation has crashed in Alaska, killing all passengers.
US Air Force invests in Hermeus’ hypersonic aircraft development
The US Air Force (USAF) and unnamed venture capital firms have invested $60 million into Hermeus Corporation as part of an effort to develop and test fly an unmanned hypersonic aircraft and propulsion systems.
New Trent 1000 TEN turbine blade in ‘queue’ for certification: Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce is still awaiting certification for its redesigned Trent 1000 TEN high-pressure turbine blade for the Boeing 787 engine, a delay it attributes to the US FAA’s having higher priorities.
US government ‘working’ on plan to allow foreign visitors
The US government is working on plans to re-open the country to foreign visitors – but travel entry bans remain in place for now.
Bombardier turns $139m Q2 profit as business-jet demand rebounds
Bombardier swung to a $139 million profit in the second quarter of 2021 and has upped its full-year 2021 earnings estimates amid a bump in deliveries of and demand for new business jets.
Bombardier still ‘assessing’ stalled Global 8000 programme
Bombardier continues to study the feasibility of developing the Global 8000 business jet, but executives express no indication they are any closer to green lighting the long-stalled large-cabin jet programme.
Atlas Air’s Q2 profit rises as airfreight remains in high demand
Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings boosted its second quarter earnings as demand for air cargo services remains high.
Porter selects Embraer for aftermarket services
Brazilian airframer Embraer and Canadian regional carrier Porter Airlines have agreed to a 20-year aftermarket support deal.
US Navy buys UK AWACS for use as E-6B trainer
The US Navy has acquired a Boeing E-3D Sentry airframe recently retired by the UK Royal Air Force, with the asset to be employed as a dedicated trainer supporting its E-6B Mercury airborne communications and command post fleet.
Hydroplaning and crew error caused 2019 Miami Air 737 overrun at Jacksonville
Loss of braking due to hydroplaning, shortcomings by Miami Air International and errors by one of its captains caused a Boeing 737-800 to overrun a Jacksonville runway on 3 May 2019. That is according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which released its final accident report on 4 August.
Frontier sees ‘softening’ demand due to delta variant
Frontier Airlines says more passengers returned to air travel during the second quarter, propelling the carrier to a small net profit, but that it is seeing “softening” in bookings as concerns about the rapid spread of the coronavirus’ “delta” variant grow.
USMC to receive first MQ-9A Reapers in August, precursor to ‘MUX’ effort
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems plans to transfer two MQ-9A Reapers to the US Marine Corps in late August.
US start-up GlobalX aims to launch flights this week
US start-up carrier GlobalX Airlines hopes to begin passenger charter flights this week.
Chorus Aviation agrees to lease two Dash 8s to hopeful US start-up Connect Airlines
Canadian aircraft lessor Chorus Aviation Capital has reached deals to lease two De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 turboprops to the company working to launch a US carrier called Connect Airlines.
Spirit AeroSystems loses $135m in Q2, citing new 787 issue
Spirit AeroSystems lost $135 million in the second quarter of 2021, reflecting reduced production of aircraft components and a $46 million forward loss on the company’s Boeing 787 work.
Spirit’s operational woes continue for fourth day
Spirit Airlines is struggling to complete flights for the fourth straight day amid system-wide disruptions due to inclement weather and staffing bottlenecks.
Boeing 737 Max en route to China for certification work
A Boeing 737 Max 7 took off from Seattle on 4 August and is headed to China, where the jet will participate in work related to that country’s 737 Max certification, an industry source says.
US start-up GlobalX lands FAA operating certificate
US start-up GlobalX has received an aircraft operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, moving the company closer to starting passenger charter flights, says GlobalX’s media representative.
Airlines lost $72 per passenger in 2020 as Covid-19 ended positive trend
Airlines made a net loss of $71.71 per passenger during 2020, according to global data released by IATA, as the Covid-19 pandemic reversed a period of relatively strong financial performance.
USAF re-designates NF-16D as X-62A to reflect Skyborg work
The US Air Force has re-designated its Lockheed Martin NF-16D Vista as the X-62A, reflecting an upgrade programme that will see the aircraft support autonomous flight work.
US Navy embarks F-35C, CMV-22 aboard carrier for first time
The US Navy has for the first time deployed its Lockheed Martin F-35C stealth fighter and Bell Boeing CMV-22 Osprey tiltrotor as part of an operational deployment on an aircraft carrier.
BAE Systems stretches APKWS range 30% using new trajectory
BAE Systems has stretched the range of its Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rocket by 30% using a new trajectory.
US business travel could hit 80% of 2019 levels by end-2022, pandemic effects could last longer: report
US corporations’ travel spending will likely inch up to 25-35% of 2019 levels by the end of 2021 and up to 80% by the end of 2022 – though full recovery depends on how significantly the pandemic changed corporations’ view of business travel.
Spirit cancels half of its scheduled flights
For the third day in a row, Spirit Airlines has cancelled hundreds of flights due to what it calls “operational challenges”.
DHL Express orders fleet of Eviation all-electric Alice aircraft for cargo feed
Logistics specialist DHL Express is venturing into electric air transport by ordering a dozen Eviation Alice aircraft for freight operations.
US export bank backs Turkish Airlines’ $833m purchase of Boeing jets
The USA’s export-credit agency has agreed to guarantee $833 million in financing for the acquisition by Turkish Airlines of an undisclosed number of Boeing 737 Max and 787s.
Spirit delays or cancels almost 1,000 flights
In the latest disruption to passenger air travel across the USA, Spirit Airlines has been forced to cancel more than one-third of its flights in the past two days.
US Navy test launches AARGM-ER from F/A-18, missile production poised for summer start
The US Navy (USN) test launched for the first time an AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile Extended Range (AARGM-ER) on 19 July, deploying the weapon from a Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Parker Hannifin to acquire Meggitt as aerospace merger activity resumes
Aerospace mergers are back, with US manufacturer Parker Hannifin revealing plans to nearly double the size of its aerospace systems business by acquiring UK-based aerospace company Meggitt for £6.3 billion ($8.8 billion) in cash.
MQ-4C Triton operates maiden sortie in Multi-INT configuration
A Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton unmanned air vehicle (UAV) has operated its first sortie in a new Multi-Intelligence (Multi-Int) configuration.
ExpressJet expects to relaunch 'within the quarter'
ExpressJet Airlines says it will resume service “within the quarter” after the US Department of Transportation (DOT) granted the regional carrier permission to restart commercial operations under its own brand.
Bombardier reaches deal with union three days into Downsview strike
Three days after a strike began, Bombardier has reached an employment deal with the union representing employees at its Global business jet manufacturing site in the Downsview section of Toronto.
US Air Force’s ARRW hypersonic boost-glide missile fails second launch test
The US Air Force’s AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) boost-glide hypersonic missile failed to launch during a test on 28 July.
Air Transat resumes operations after six-month pause
Canada’s Air Transat has resumed flying after a six-month pandemic-driven pause.
GE Aviation ‘buttoning up’ Catalyst flight approvals, eyes applications besides Beechcraft’s Denali
GE Aviation is awaiting European certifications needed to begin flight testing its Catalyst turboprop, and aims to achieve first flight – which was to have occurred last year – in the coming months.
Leonardo aims to finish first AW609 tiltrotor production example by end of 2021
The initial commercial rotorcraft is in final assembly at the manufacturer’s Philadelphia facility.
Skywest sees continued improvement in Q2
SkyWest Airlines saw continued improvement in the second quarter of 2021, and expects to reach pre-pandemic flying levels by the first part of 2022.
American takes minority stake in Indigo Partners’ JetSmart
American Airlines plans to take a minority stake in low-cost carrier JetSmart in order to broaden its network in Latin America further and help fuel the Chile-based carrier’s growth.
Sun Country will buy used aircraft – even if not yet needed
Sun Country Airlines is prepared to buy aircraft – even if it does not yet need them – to meet its goal of having 50 passenger aircraft by the end of 2023.
Spirit Airlines loses $288m loss in ‘challenging’ Q2
Spirit Airlines says the second quarter of 2021 was “challenging” as the industry slowly bounces back, and that it still faces a “choppy recovery”.
Profit jumps in second quarter at Textron Aviation as aircraft demand rebounds
Textron Aviation’s profits jumped in the second quarter to $96 million as the company’s aircraft deliveries neared pre-pandemic levels.
Sun Country Q2 profit rises to $52m as scheduled service outperforms
Sun Country Airlines posted a $51.8 million profit in the second quarter of 2021 as leisure travel demand in its scheduled service rebounded strongly following the more-than year-long coronavirus crisis in the air transport industry.
Allegiant posts Q2 profit, expresses optimism for the rest of 2021
Allegiant Travel Company, the parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air, posted a healthy profit in the second three months of the year as the company has returned to business levels last seen before the global health crisis.
As profits jump, Gulfstream prepares to hike deliveries, tackle G700 certification difficulties
After earning a $195 million profit in the second quarter, General Dynamics’ aerospace division – which is anchored by business jet maker Gulfstream – is preparing to boost deliveries in the second half in response to improving demand.
Boeing needs new emissions-compliant freighter, 777X variant is ‘logical’ choice: CEO
Boeing’s chief executive views a freighter version of the 777X as a logical next aircraft programme for the Chicago-based airframer, noting Boeing will need a cargo jet that complies with looming aircraft emission standards.
Frank Kendall sworn in as secretary of the US Air Force
Frank Kendall was sworn in as the 26th secretary of the US Air Force on 28 July at the Pentagon.
Boeing might need to adjust 737 production ramp if China’s approval slips beyond 2021
Boeing could need to reduce its planned 737 Max production ramp if Chinese aviation regulators do not lift the Max’s grounding before year end, as Boeing predicts it will.
Boeing returns to profitability in second quarter
Boeing is back in the black after the US airframer turned a $567 million profit in the second quarter of 2021, marking the company’s first quarterly profit since the second half of 2019. However, the airframer’s commercial aircraft business remained loss-making.
Hawaiian could consider electric aircraft for inter-island flights: CEO
Hawaiian Airlines may consider acquiring electric aircraft in the future for its inter-island flights, chief executive Peter Ingram says on 27 July.
Hawaiian’s Q2 results improve as travel barriers ease
Hawaiian Holdings, parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, says relaxed travel restrictions for inbound travellers from the US mainland have gone a long way to help the airline’s bottom line during the second quarter of 2021.
Bombardier and De Havilland Downsview workers go on strike
Bombardier and De Havilland Canada unionised workers at the Downsview production site in Toronto are on strike, a move coming amid contract negotiations and as both companies work to wrap up their Downsview presence. Downsview is home to Bombardier’s Global business jet production facility and De Havilland’s Dash 8-400 production site.
JetBlue delays Embraer 190 retirements
JetBlue Airways plans to delay retiring its Embraer E190 regional aircraft as the carrier assesses the post-coronavirus demand environment and how its new “Northeast Alliance” (NEA) joint venture with American Airlines will shake out.
AI fighter pilot software firm Heron Systems acquired by Shield AI
Heron Systems, the company behind the artificial intelligence software that beat a US Air Force Lockheed Martin F-16 pilot 5-0 in the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s AlphaDogfight trials last year, has been acquired by Shield AI.
JetBlue to make ‘adjustments’ to transatlantic flight schedule
JetBlue Airways will make “schedule adjustments” to its transatlantic flights as the continued rapid spread of the highly-contagious “Delta” variant of the coronavirus as well as ongoing travel restrictions threaten to wreak havoc with the rebound of international air travel.
Raytheon CEO says significant narrowbody rate hikes pose supplier ‘challenge’
One aerospace supplier says it could struggle to meet demand if Airbus and Boeing significantly hike narrowbody production in the coming years, a warning that recalls the pressured growth conditions that plagued aerospace suppliers prior to Covid-19.
Demand for aftermarket services push P&W and Collins to Q2 profits
Surging commercial aftermarket revenue helped push Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney – both divisions of Raytheon Technologies – to profits in the second quarter of 2021.
JetBlue returns to profitability in Q2 with government aid
JetBlue Airways swung to a $64 million profit in the second-quarter of 2021, a result reflecting US government Covid-19-related aid and an improving air travel market. Excluding special items, which include government payroll-support grants, JetBlue would have lost $206 million in the second quarter.
GE earns $176m second-quarter profit as engine orders and deliveries tick higher
GE Aviation has continued its profit streak, earning $176 million in the second quarter of 2021 amid revenue gains and a significant bump in orders for new engines.
Canadian investigators take over probe into Air Baltic A220 engine incident
Canadian investigators are to probe an engine-control incident involving an Air Baltic Airbus A220-300 during which both powerplants shut down after the aircraft touched down in Copenhagen.
Saab ships second T-7A aft fuselage section
Saab has delivered its second aft section for the test programme of the Boeing T-7A advanced jet trainer.
Challenger 605 business jet crashes in northern California
A Bombardier Challenger 605 business jet has crashed on approach to Truckee-Tahoe airport in northern California.
Lockheed Martin takes $225m loss on ‘significant’ classified aeronautics programme
Lockheed Martin took a $225 million loss on an unspecified classified programme within its aeronautics business segment during the second quarter of 2021.
Icon Aircraft nears type certificate for A5, eyeing more international sales
US aerospace company Icon Aircraft expects the Federal Aviation Administration will certificate its A5 amphibian as a “primary category” aircraft by late 2021 – a milestone the company says will expand the A5’s international appeal.
Southwest Airlines joins Sabre booking network
Southwest Airlines has fully joined the Sabre global distribution system (GDS), allowing corporate accounts to more seamlessly access, book and modify travel on the low-cost carrier.
Union threatens strike as De Havilland moves to relocate Dash 8 production
The union representing De Havilland Canada’s manufacturing workers has threatened to strike as early as 27 July over issues related to potential layoffs and De Havilland’s planned relocation of Dash 8 production.
USA to maintain entry restrictions for non-citizens
The USA will maintain entry restrictions for foreign visitors as the coronavirus “Delta” variant continues spreading, thwarting airlines’ hopes of fully salvaging the summer travel season.
Boeing video reviews fuselage ‘gap’ issue that prompted 787 delivery halt
Boeing has released a video about the fuselage-related quality issues that led the company to halt deliveries of 787s. The Chicago-based airframer released the video on 23 July alongside an email from Boeing Commercial Airplanes chief executive Stan Deal to all Boeing’s commercial aircraft employees.
WestJet and Delta said to be resubmitting transborder JV application
Canada’s WestJet and Delta Air Lines reportedly intend to resubmit their plans for a transborder joint venture, eight months after the carriers pulled their last application to the US Department of Transportation (DOT).
US court denies Wisk’s request for injunction against Archer
A US court has dismissed a motion for an injunction against urban air mobility start-up Archer Aviation, brought by competitor Wisk Aero.
Airline Business Weekly Briefing: No more domestic bliss in Asia-Pacific
News this week that Australia’s domestic air travel market has been hit hard by a resurgence of Covid-19 cases reflects a growing trend of Covid-19 challenges in Asia-Pacific, with no easy answers.
Air Canada ‘ready to deal with’ Porter Airlines expansion
Air Canada is undaunted by regional carrier Porter Airlines’ plans to grab market share when it begins operating jet aircraft from Toronto’s Pearson International airport in 2022.
Air Canada ‘turning a corner’ as restrictions ease despite further heavy loss in Q2
Air Canada once again lost more than a billion Canadian dollars in the second quarter of the year as the airline continues to struggle to do business amid Canada’s ongoing travel strict restrictions.
Overture will have ‘fraction’ of Concorde’s fuel burn: United Airlines chief
Improved propulsion technology and a lower cruising speed will ensure the Boom Supersonic Overture significantly outperforms the BAC-Aerospatiale Concorde, according to United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby.
Sikorsky-Boeing SB-1 Defiant lifts 2,400kg as flight testing continues
The Sikorsky-Boeing SB-1 Defiant rotorcraft demonstrated the ability to lift a 2,400kg (5,300lb) sling load in a recent test flight.
Southwest is ‘delighted’ with recovery progress
Southwest Airlines is “very delighted” with the post-coronavirus crisis rebound in air travel and has not yet seen any indication that the more-contagious “Delta variant” has had any effect on business.
Alaska Airlines ‘on the path to profitability’
Alaska Air Group narrowed its loss in the second quarter of 2021, as passenger demand rose in line with the entire air transport industry.
Government aid pushes American to small second-quarter profit
American Airlines achieved a profit of $19 million in the second quarter of the year as the airline ramps up its operations in the face of dramatically increased leisure demand.
Why the ill-timed 777X can still be a winner for Boeing
Pandemic, decimated international travel demand and certification delays. Why Boeing’s chief executive has no regrets about developing the 777X.
Boeing’s response to A321neo still unclear, but Max 10 narrows competitive gap
As the pandemic eases, Boeing finds itself in the familiar position of still having to address the competitive threat posed by Airbus’s A321neo – particularly the longer-range A321XLR variant.
787 programme’s future remains bright, though scope of fuselage issues unclear
But despite stopping deliveries, despite fuselage issues, despite withered demand for international travel and despite markedly reduced 787 production rates, analysts still foresee bright tomorrows for the jet.
Boeing’s Max gains momentum as pandemic recovery accelerates
Despite ongoing technical issues, Boeing has recently landed significant new orders for the once-grounded narrowbody, progressed with clearing a hundreds-deep inventory of stored jets and achieved first flight of the Max 10.
How A220 programme proved sound investment for Airbus amid pandemic
One curious effect of the air transport crisis is that it has effectively pushed the sector back in time, leaving a fleet technologically shaped to address the 2020s facing levels of demand from the turn of the millennium.
Boeing integrates Superjet data into its flight-performance calculation tool
Boeing is integrating aircraft capability data for the Sukhoi Superjet 100 into the US airframer’s performance tool platform to enable improvement to the type’s take-off and landing operations.
American ups pilot hiring targets due to rapidly increasing demand
American Airlines will hire 350 new pilots this year, up from 300, as the industry recovery accelerates following the year-long coronavirus crisis.
United ‘bullish’ about business and international travel rebound
United Airlines executives are “bullish” about the carrier’s post-coronavirus recovery trajectory, and expect the business travel segment to accelerate significantly in the coming months.
Canada’s WestJet declines federal aid
WestJet, Canada’s second largest airline, says it is “not actively pursuing financial support from the federal government” to help it navigate through the Covid-19 crisis
United's Q2 ‘exceeded expectations’ as business travel returns
United Airlines says its second quarter results “largely exceeded original expectations” as business and international travel began to make a stronger return in addition to leisure travellers’ run on tickets for the beginning of the summer holiday travel period.
JetBlue and American start next phase of Northeast Alliance
JetBlue Airways and American Airlines have launched the next phase of their so-called Northeast Alliance (NEA), together offering more than 700 daily flights from Boston and New York.
Air Canada to offer 220 transborder flights per day after border reopening
Air Canada will offer up to 220 transborder flights every day after the government of Canada announced it would lift entry restrictions for US citizens and permanent residents who are fully vaccinated beginning in August.
US tourists may enter Canada from 9 August
Canada will re-open to vaccinated US leisure travellers on 9 August, almost 17 months after the border between the two nations was effectively sealed for non-essential travel in order to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.
Airline industry not assertive enough in early days of Covid-19: IATA chief
The airline industry was too accepting of draconian restrictions on international travel in the first months of the pandemic, according to IATA director general Willie Walsh.
BA to accelerate 787 nose-gear modifications after retraction incident
British Airways is to speed implementation of a fix to prevent a repeat of the nose-gear retraction incident that damaged one of the carrier’s Boeing 787-8s on the ground at London Heathrow, in the aftermath of two similar events in the previous five years.
USAF to update MQ-9A Reaper fleet in 2022 with auto-land-and-take-off capability
The US Air Force (USAF) plans to start updating its fleet of MQ-9A Reapers with an automatic land-and-take-off capability starting in the spring of 2022.
New 787 issue casts fresh uncertainty over production rates, deliveries and possible forward loss
Boeing’s latest 787 manufacturing issues and associated production cut has raised more uncertainty about the programme, leaving analysts unclear about production rates, the pace of regulatory approval and whether the airframer might take another financial charge against the programme.
Canada to open border to vaccinated travellers from the US
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the country may lift its entry restriction for vaccinated travellers from the USA by the middle of next month.
FAA grounds Rhoades Aviation, operator of 737 that crashed on 2 July
The Federal Aviation Administration has grounded Honolulu-based Rhoades Aviation, which operated a Boeing 737-200 that crashed into the Pacific Ocean after take-off from Honolulu on 2 July.
US president says decision imminent on reopening to European travellers
US president Joe Biden has suggested that there will be news on the potential reopening of US borders to non-essential European visitors in the coming days.
Canada prepares to launch multibillion-dollar pilot training revamp ahead of fighter order
As the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) upgrades its fleet with new aircraft, including the upcoming purchase of 88 advanced fighter jets, it is revamping pilot training through a multibillion-dollar programme called Future Aircrew Training (FAcT).
FAA orders airlines to test pressure switches in all 737s, citing risk of failure
The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered airlines to test cabin altitude pressure switches in all Boeing 737s, saying some operators have reported that both switches on several aircraft had failed.
Pratt & Whitney Canada again commits to develop hybrid-electric propulsion system for regional airliners
With Canadian government support, Pratt & Whitney Canada is moving forward with project to equip a De Havilland Canada Dash 8-100 turboprop with a hybrid-electric propulsion system, with demonstrator flights scheduled to begin in 2024.
Avelo to launch flights between Las Vegas and Santa Rosa
Low-cost startup Avelo Airlines plans to launch its first flights between two cities in the western USA that are not its home base.
The USA should invest in electric regional aircraft – not high-speed rail
In earlier decades, there wasn’t a workable and environmentally friendly alternative to high-speed rail. That is no longer the case.
Why visionaries think small electric aircraft can revolutionise regional air travel
If all goes to plan, by this time next year Canadian regional carrier Harbour Air will make history as the first airline to fly paying passengers on an all-electric aircraft.
Northrop Grumman breaks ground on hypersonic missile design and production facility
Northrop Grumman has started construction of a “Hypersonics Center of Excellence” in Elkton, Maryland that will house the company’s hypersonic missile design, development and production work.
Wheels Up becomes public company, raises $650m
US private-aviation services provider Wheels Up became a publicly traded company on 14 July, generating $650 million through a stock offering the company says will help fund accelerated global growth and technology investment.
Delta eyes continued financial recovery in second half of 2021
Delta anticipates its business will continue improving in the third quarter, with revenue and capacity expected to creep closer to 2019 levels thanks partly to strong demand for travel within the USA and to Latin America.
Delta returns to profit in Q2 with help from US government payroll grants
Delta Air Lines returned to the black posting a $652 million profit in the second quarter, aided by $1.5 billion in US government Covid-19 support,
Freighters help Boeing offset collapse in twin-aisle passenger jet orders
Figures at the half-year point clearly illustrate the difference that Boeing’s freighter line has made to the two main airframers’ long-haul order activity following the onset of the air transport crisis.
American started accumulating cash in Q2, swung to profit in June
American Airlines says it was profitable during June, the first month it has completed without a loss since December 2019.
Delta to acquire 29 used 737s and seven used A350s
Delta Air Lines will add 29 used Boeing 737-900ER aircraft and seven used Airbus A350-900s to its fleet as passenger demand returns following the more-than year-long global health pandemic.
United signs up to acquire Heart’s in-development electric regional airliner
United Airlines and its regional partner Mesa Airlines have agreed to buy a combined 200 of an all-electric 19-passenger regional aircraft under development by Heart Aerospace.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: July 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Boeing slows 787 production to address forward pressure bulkhead manufacturing issue
Boeing is slowing 787 production in order to address a new manufacturing issue that the company says involves an issue with the jet’s forward pressure bulkhead.
Boeing’s undelivered 787s have another manufacturing problem: FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration has learned of a new manufacturing problem found on the nose section of some undelivered Boeing 787s – an issue that Boeing must address before delivering the jets.
Transat pilots accept deal to return to work
Pilots at Canada’s low-cost vacation specialist Air Transat have accepted a new contract, clearing a path for them to return to work when the airline resumes service, now scheduled for 30 July.
NASA’s X-56B UAV destroyed in crash on 9 July
NASA’s X-56B unmanned air vehicle was destroyed in a crash after suffering an “anomaly in flight”.
AOPA blasts FAA for policy change on certain types of aircraft
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is sharply criticising the Federal Aviation Administration for a sudden policy change regarding giving or receiving flight instruction in several categories of general aviation aircraft.
Porter confirms cancelling ‘conditional order’ for 30 Airbus A220s
After announcing an order of 30 Embraer 195-E2 jets in addition to a route expansion, Canada’s Porter Airlines says it has cancelled an earlier letter of intent to acquire a similar number of Airbus A220s.
BBAM orders another 12 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters
US aircraft lessor BBAM Limited Partnership has ordered another 12 Boeing 737-800 converted freighters, throwing further momentum behind the conversion programme at a time of heightened air cargo demand.
Ditched Transair 737-200 wreckage pictured on sea floor off Honolulu
US investigators have released images of the Rhoades Aviation Boeing 737-200C which ditched off the coast of Hawaii shortly after departing Honolulu.
Will Roper, former USAF acquisition chief, named CEO of drone cargo delivery start-up Volansi
Will Roper, former chief of US Air Force aircraft development and acquisition, has been named chief executive of Volansi, a start-up developing unmanned air vehicles for cargo delivery.
US government to regulate airlines' ancillary fees
The US government will regulate airlines’ ancillary fees as part of a broad executive order the White House says will improve competitiveness, strengthen consumer rights and counter “the trend of corporate consolidation”.
Finnair steps into long-haul leisure routes from Stockholm
Oneworld alliance carrier Finnair is to branch into long-haul operations from the Swedish capital Stockholm, operating to destinations in the USA and Thailand.
FAA imposes new ‘cumbersome’ rules for some pilot training, citing improved safety
In what one general aviation (GA) lobby group calls “a stunning turnabout”, the Federal Aviation Administration has ruled that owners of certain types of aircraft and flight instructors who teach in those aircraft must obtain additional documentation for flight lessons.
Why the US Air Force plans to make a digital replica of the F-16 fighter
The US Air Force plans to disassemble and make 3D digital scans of two Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters mothballed in the Arizona desert.
FAA set to require inspections of more 737NG aft pressure bulkheads
The Federal Aviation Administration seeks to subject hundreds of additional Boeing 737NGs to inspections following more reports of cracks in aft pressure bulkheads.
Premature Bell 212 rotor strap pin failures spur urgent inspection order
Canadian authorities have ordered urgent replacement of rotor hub strap pins on certain Bell helicopters after premature failure of the component was found during investigation of a fatal Bell 212 crash.
Two months after launch, Avelo cuts destination cities, raises prices
Just over two months after launching operations, US startup carrier Avelo Airlines is pulling back service to several of its launch cities, and raising prices.
US travel lobby groups urge swift reopening to foreign visitors
Aviation and travel lobby groups have once again urged the US government to ease restrictions on foreign visitors as coronavirus case counts decline and vaccinations increase.
US Air Force detonates warhead for ARRW hypersonic missile for first time
The US Air Force (USAF) has detonated an AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) warhead for the first time.
United’s order reinvigorates Max programme, but Airbus deal casts unwelcome shadow
There is no getting away from the fact that United Airlines’ recent 200-unit order for Boeing’s 737 Max throws considerable – and much needed – additional momentum behind the programme, even if the airframer had to offer a significant discount to secure the business. But the carrier’s simultaneous deal with Airbus for another large batch of A321neos will be an unwelcome reminder that the European airframer is continuing to encroach on Boeing’s turf.
US Air Force releases rendering of B-21 Raider stealth bomber with unusual windows
The US Air Force (USAF) has released a new rendering of the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider stealth bomber, showing an unusual window layout.
WestJet names Diederik Pen as new COO
Canada’s WestJet has appointed former Wizz Air executive Diederik Pen to be its next chief operations officer.
Skyborg shows broader capability by piloting a General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger
The US Air Force’s Skyborg system controlled a General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-20 Avenger unmanned air vehicle during a recent flight test, demonstrating for the first time that the autonomous system can be used on different types of aircraft.
Number of US air travellers exceeded 2019 levels two days last week
More people travelled by air on two consecutive days around last weekend’s US Independence Day holiday weekend than did on the same days in pre-coronavirus 2019, the government agency responsible for airport security says.
Air Canada to reinstate more international routes
Air Canada is reinstating numerous international routes as the government of Canada begins to tentatively relax coronavirus-driven rules for inbound travellers.
Marshall completes support work on first USMC KC-130J
MRO specialist Marshall Aerospace & Defence Group has returned the US Marine Corps’ first Lockheed Martin KC-130J tanker/transport to have undergone depot-level maintenance at its Cambridge airport site in the UK.
Sonar scan to aid recovery of ditched Transair 737’s flight recorders
US investigators are aiming to conduct a sonar scan of underwater wreckage and debris following the Transair Boeing 737-200 freighter crash off Hawaii on 2 July.
Canada’s Porter to restart flights in September with federal aid
Porter Airlines intends to resume operations on 8 September, following months of delays as the regional carrier watched for signs that Canada would loosen travel restrictions and that demand for flights would return.
Transair 737-200 crash crew believed both engines were failing
Air-ground communications from the crew of a Boeing 737-200 which ditched off Honolulu on 2 July indicate the pilots were dealing with an engine failure and believed the other engine was also on the verge of failing.
First US Marine Corps squadron declares full operational capability for F-35C
US Marine Corps (USMC) fighter attack squadron 314, based at MCAS Miramar in California, has become the first within the service to declare that its Lockheed Martin F-35C stealth fighters have reached full operational capability.
USAF awards Raytheon $2bn for next stage of LRSO nuclear cruise missile programme
The US Air Force (USAF) has awarded Raytheon a $2 billion contract to start the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase of the Long Range Standoff (LRSO) nuclear cruise missile programme.
US House bill addresses hazards around transporting lithium batteries
The US House of Representatives has voted to approve an infrastructure bill that also addresses hazards in the air transportation of lithium batteries.
Transair 737 ditches off Hawaii after experiencing engine trouble
A cargo aircraft that had just departed from Honolulu made an emergency landing in the ocean after experiencing engine trouble.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: Early call for aircraft orders
This is an industry that has to both plan for and bet on future demand, and while United’s order may feel like a resumption of business as usual for airlines, the reality is that the here and now remains firmly in crisis.
Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band ready for production: US Navy
The US Navy (USN) has given the green light for the Raytheon-made Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band to start low-rate initial production, after finishing the Milestone C assessment for the programme.
Aero Capital orders seven more AEI 737-800 converted freighters
Texas aircraft lessor Aero Capital Solutions has committed to convert seven Boeing 737-800s into freighters under Aeronautical Engineers’ (AEI) supplemental type certificate, with modifications starting in January 2022.
Canada among new additions to EU ‘safe list’ for travel
Canada heads a list 11 states or territories that the European Union has added to its list of destinations where it is recommending member states lift restrictions on non-essential travel into the bloc.
Former GE executive West to succeed Smith as Boeing CFO
Brian West, chief financial officer of data provider Refinitiv and formerly with GE Aviation, will succeed Greg Smith as Boeing CFO effective 27 August.
Eviation changes Alice design, performance specifications shift
Eviation Aircraft confirms it has significantly shifted the design of its in-development Alice all-electric aircraft, and says it remains on track for a first flight this year.
A220 pilot manuals revised to avert low-thrust take-off incidents
Airbus Canada has revised the A220 flight operations manual to emphasise the correct setting of thrust levers during departure, after a series of incidents in which the autothrottle did not engage on take-off.
Alaska aims to become ‘most fuel-efficient’ US airline: CEO
Alaska Airlines is aiming to become the most fuel-efficient US airline in the next five years, the airline’s chief executive says.
Bombardier receives order for 10 jets worth $452m
Canada’s Bombardier has received a firm order for 10 aircraft from an undisclosed existing customer worth $452 million.
Confusing NOTAMs led overrun 747 crew to believe longer runway was unavailable
Investigators probing the overrun that destroyed a Boeing 747-400F at Halifax have highlighted the contribution of poorly-presented NOTAM information to the accident.
Ravn Alaska considering using 757s to launch new operation: reports
Alaskan regional airline Ravn Alaska is reportedly considering a major expansion, using Boeing 757s to launch flights from its home state to Asia and the contiguous USA.
Sky Lease 747 wrecked after minor factors conspired to cause Halifax overrun
Canadian investigators have found that belated braking during a Boeing 747-400F’s landing at Halifax led to its overrunning the runway and being written off as a result of substantial damage.
ATSG leasing unit accelerates plan to add A321 converted freighters
Lessor Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) is set to add its first Airbus freighters after announcing a deal to purchase two A321s in response to customer demand.
US Air Force stands up new electronic warfare wing
In light of a growing need for electronic warfare capabilities, the US Air Force has stood up the 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing.
United’s fleet renewal plan cements CEO Kirby’s legacy
In addition to disclosing an order for 270 more Airbus and Boeing narrowbodies on 29 June, Kirby says United’s focus has shifted toward strengthening its presence in large markets – and less on small markets. United has also recently committed to acquiring electric air taxis and supersonic jets, and pledged to invest in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
United views 737 Max 7s as potential 737-700 replacements
United Airlines may look to the Boeing 737 Max 7 aircraft, the smallest member of the re-engineered 737 Max family, when it comes time to retire its 737-700 aircraft, a company executive says.
United Airlines still undecided on 757-300 replacements: CEO Kirby
Although United Airlines will use incoming Airbus A321neos and Boeing 737 Max jets to replace its ageing 757-200s, the new aircraft will not supplant its larger 757-300s.
United not 'in the market' for 100-seaters, says chief Kirby
United Airlines has no plans to acquire narrowbody aircraft in the 100-130-seat class – a category filled by jets like the Airbus A220 and Embraer E-Jet family.
United orders 270 Airbus and Boeing narrowbodies, plans to retire 200 50-seat jets
United Airlines has placed orders for a combined 270 Airbus and Boeing narrowbody jets, including 200 737 Max and 70 A321neos – a pair of massive deals that signal that the US airline industry is recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Number of women leading top airlines doubles in space of months
While there has arguably been remarkably little executive churn at the top of airlines during the pandemic, the past few months suggest that might be starting to change – and that some positive trends could emerge from the crisis.
ZeroAvia obtains Dornier 228s for 19-seat hydrogen-electric demonstration
Advanced propulsion specialist ZeroAvia has acquired a pair of Dornier 228 turboprops for research, as it seeks to progress towards developing a 19-seat hydrogen-electric powered aircraft.
GECAS orders three more 777-300ERSF converted freighters
GECAS is exercising options on a contract with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to convert three additional Boeing 777-300ER passenger planes to 777-300ERSF freighters.
US Navy to purchase nine additional Sikorsky CH-53K heavy-lift helicopters
The US Navy has awarded Sikorsky a $879 million contract for nine more CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopters.
ALPA calls on FAA to require ‘secondary’ cockpit barriers
The largest US pilot union is urging the US government to take additional steps to prevent passengers from gaining access to cockpits, saying a recent spike in air-rage incidents signals a need for better security.
CAE on track to close purchase of L3Harris’ military training business on 2 July
Canadian pilot training company CAE has received required regulatory approvals for its planned purchase of L3Harris Technologies’ military training business and now expects the acquisition will close on 2 July.
Swissport chief Warwick Brady outlines ambitions for restructured handling giant
With a reduction in debt of €1.9 billion and a capital injection of €500 million, Swissport is aiming to emerge from the pandemic as a leaner but stronger business.
Boeing must complete more 777-9 analysis and address regulatory concerns: FAA
Boeing will need to complete more 777-9 analysis and assuage regulatory concerns, including those related to design changes, prior to the Federal Aviation Administration agreeing the jet is on track to meet certification requirements.
Unidentified phenomena pose flight-safety threat and potential broader risks: US government
Preliminary US intelligence analysis of unidentified aerial phenomena has concluded that such incidents are at least a threat to flight safety and potentially present a broader hazard.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: Two very different CEO departures
This week saw two low-cost carriers announce changes at the top of their businesses, where the similarities between the stories begin and end with the business model.
How NASA intends to make the next narrowbody airliners 25% more efficient
NASA’s new Sustainable Flight National Partnership aims to boost the efficiency of the next generation of single-aisle jets by up to a quarter and simultaneously enhance competitiveness of the US aerospace industry.
FAA to expand proposed inspections related to 737NG structure-related ‘gaps’
The Federal Aviation Administration intends to propose a new, expanded rule after learning that a structure concern involving “un-shimmed gaps” in some Boeing 737NGs is broader than previously suspected.
Eve partners with Blade to offer US air taxi flights
Embraer-backed air taxi developer Eve Urban Air Mobility Solutions has agreed to provide Blade Air Mobility with up to 60 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, for use in the USA starting in 2026.
WestJet makes cargo move with 737-800 freighters
Canadian carrier WestJet will launch dedicated freighter operations following the delivery of a Boeing 737-800 converted freighter.
Bell ends V-280 test flights ahead of US Army’s FLRAA competition
Bell has finished its flight-test programme of the V-280 Valor tiltrotor ahead of the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft request for proposal that is anticipated to be released by the US Army this summer.
United, with one of USA’s oldest fleets, poised for huge aircraft order: reports
United Airlines is reportedly preparing to announce a large aircraft order, possibly next week, a move that could set United on a path to replacing what is among the US airline industry’s oldest fleet.
US Air Force’s Agility Prime funds eSTOL test flights in 2022
The US Air Force’s Agility Prime programme has signed a contract with start-up Electra Aero to build and flight demonstrate a prototype hybrid-electric short take-off and landing aircraft in 2022.
Southwest Airlines chief to step down in February 2022
Southwest Airlines’ chief executive Gary Kelly will step down from his role in early 2022, after having led the US low-cost carrier through aviation’s most devastating crisis.
Lufthansa tentatively reinstates full US network from second half of July
Lufthansa tentatively plans to reinstate its full US network from the second half of July, using its “big Atlantic fleet”, amid uncertainty over when Washington will relax its travel restrictions.
US Air Force funds development of pulsejet-powered air decoy
The US Air Force is funding development of a new pulsejet-powered decoy as it continues seeking cheaper and simpler forms of unmanned air vehicle (UAV) and cruise missile propulsion.
Transat ends takeover negotiations with Peladeau
Transat AT on 21 June announced the end of a special committee charged with reviewing takeover bids, adding that billionaire investor Pierre Karl Peladeau has withdrawn his offer to purchase control of the tourism provider due to lack of shareholder interest.
Boeing fires chief political lobbyist Tim Keating: Reports
Boeing’s chief political lobbyist in Washington DC, Tim Keating, has abruptly left the company.
American’s cancellation issues stem from pilot scarcity: Union
American Airlines’ cancellation of hundreds of flights in the past few days stems primarily due to a lack of trained and current pilots, union officials say.
Europe certificates updated Cessna CJ4 Gen2
European regulators have certificated Textron Aviation’s Cessna CJ4 Gen2, clearing a path for the airframer to begin delivering the upgraded light jet variant to the first European customer before the end of June.
US Marine Corps to buy UVision Hero-120 loitering munition
The US Marine Corps plans to acquire an undisclosed number of UVision Hero-120 loitering munitions to be mounted and launched from two types of armoured ground vehicles and an autonomous boat.
Canada ends 14-day quarantine for vaccinated citizens and residents
Canada will begin to ease travel restrictions for travellers vaccinated against Covid-19 beginning on 5 July, but has yet to present a comprehensive re-opening plan following the global pandemic.
US airline industry calls for swift prosecution of belligerent passengers
US airline trade groups have called upon the government to quickly and uniformly prosecute passengers who are accused of unruly behaviour, and are increasingly creating a safety hazard on flights.
American cancels hundreds of flights through July
American Airlines is cancelling hundreds of flights through July due to staffing shortages and anticipated bad weather.
Boeing 737 Max 10 makes maiden flight
Boeing’s 737 Max 10 lifted off from Renton Municipal airport at 10:07 local time on 18 June, beginning a maiden flight expected to last 2h.
Canadian authority warns operators over 5G risk to radio altimeters
Canadian authorities are warning operators of the potential risk of interference to radio altimeters arising from 5G communications networks, following auction of part of the frequency spectrum.
USAF seeks initial bids to deliver “Bridge” tankers after 2029 under KC-Y effort
The US Air Force is seeking industrial partners to deliver up to 160 “Bridge” tankers, a commercial aircraft-based aerial refueling jet that the service intends to acquire after Boeing stops producing KC-46As in 2029.
EU recommends lifting travel restrictions for US residents
The Council of the European Union has added the USA to its list of countries for which travel restrictions should be lifted.
Boeing’s 737 Max 10 prepares to make first flight
Boeing’s 737 Max 10 is scheduled to take off on its maiden flight on 18 June, beginning a certification campaign that Boeing aims to end in time for deliveries to start in 2023.
Airline Business Index shows industry below two-thirds of pre-Covid size
The latest quarterly Airline Business Index shows the global airline industry is still below two-thirds of its pre-pandemic size, at a score of 60 (2019 = 100), with only a small uptick in the data over the three months to 31 March 2021.
Magnix rolls out two more-powerful electric propulsion systems
Electric propulsion company Magnix has unveiled two new, more-powerful electric propulsion units (EPUs) for commercial aircraft, replacing earlier systems, including one that powered several all-electric demonstration flights.
De Havilland begins ‘decommissioning’ Downsview production site, but could retain presence
De Havilland Canada has started “decommissioning” its Dash 8-400 manufacturing site in Toronto and will soon pause production, but remains hopeful in retaining some presence at the site in the city’s Downsview section.
FAA mandates inspections for 737 Max flight control systems
The Federal Aviation Administration has mandated that US airlines perform repeated inspections of aspects of Boeing 737 Max flight control systems.
US Air Force T-7A advanced jet trainer delayed by up to 15 months
The US Air Force’s T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer has fallen as much as 15 months behind schedule after parts shortages, initial design delays and the discovery of aircraft wing rock.
David Curtis, head of Viking and De Havilland parent Longview, to retire
David Curtis, executive chairman of Canadian aerospace company Longview Aviation Capital, will retire on 1 August, ending a nearly 40-year tenure during which Longview acquired major aircraft programmes including the Viking Air Twin Otter and De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Dash 8.
US DOT plans to fine Air Canada $25.5m for ticket refund delays
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) is looking to impose a $25.5 million civil penalty on Air Canada after the carrier dragged its feet on refunding tickets held by US passengers.
US nominates Sullenberger to ICAO post
The administration of US President Joe Biden has nominated former airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger to be its next ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
US and Europe commit to preventing transfer of aerospace technology to ‘non-market’ economies
The US government and European Union will collaborate to help prevent aerospace technology from falling into the hands of “state-financed competitors” and so-called “non-market economies”.
Southwest grounds operations due to computer ‘issues’
Southwest Airlines grounded operations on 15 June due to computer issues, marking the second time in two days that the airline suffered significant operational problems.
Cheap fuel killed propfan concepts decades ago. Can CFM’s revived concept endure?
As before, experts agree propfans have real ability to bring significant efficiency gains to the next generation of commercial airliners – in this case, the jets Airbus and Boeing are expected to bring to market in the 2030s.
End in sight for prolonged Airbus-Boeing dispute as US and EU agree funding framework
Airbus is encouraged by plans to end the long-running transatlantic dispute over subsidies for large civil aircraft programmes through a series of steps outlined by a co-operative framework.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: June 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Lufthansa eyes positive cash flow in Q2
Lufthansa Group is reporting a significant surge in air travel bookings and predicting positive cash flow in the second quarter of 2021 thanks partly to its restructuring.
Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota to be first operational base for B-21 stealth bomber
The base will also host the stealth bomber’s formal training unit.
US Army looks for vehicle-launched swarming loitering munition ideas
The US Army is looking for prototypes and ideas for loitering munitions swarms that can work together with little or no control from a human operator.
WestJet introduces flights to Amsterdam, resumes Gatwick connections
WestJet will introduce seasonal service to Amsterdam, and resume service to London’s Gatwick airport as the global pandemic wanes and Canada looks set to ease travel restrictions.
The many challenges facing the air taxi vision
Regulators could clear air taxi flights as soon as 2024, but questions about the business case remain unsettled
Lockheed Martin to produce 133 to 139 F-35s in 2021 as Covid hangover lingers
Lockheed Martin plans to manufacture between 133 and 139 examples of its F-35 stealth fighter in 2021, a number about the same as 2019 levels, but below previous projections as the programme continues to feel the lingering effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: Let us fly again, please
Several of the world’s largest airlines began the week with a rare show of unity during a joint press conference to demand that governments open up UK-USA travel.
Time for action on reopening UK-US market: Gallego
IAG chief executive Luis Gallego is calling for action in re-opening the US-UK aviation market after plans for a taskforce to study the opening up of the market emerged.
Transat limps out of fiscal Q2, hopes to restart operations on 30 July
Transat AT, the parent company of Canadian leisure airline Air Transat, continues to struggle as its operations remain suspended amid uncertainty about when Canada will lift its pandemic-driven travel restrictions.
United negotiating to buy Airbus and Boeing narrowbody jets: reports
United Airlines is reportedly talking with Airbus and Boeing about purchasing a total of 200 aircraft, including jets from both airframers.
United Airlines forms venture-capital arm to advance clean-energy technology
United Airlines has formed an investment company called United Airlines Ventures, through which the carrier intends to invest in emerging clean-energy technologies.
‘I’ve never seen such a dramatic swing and recovery’: Alaska Airlines CEO
Alaska Airlines expects to be profitable in the third quarter of this year, as it benefits from what chief executive Ben Minicucci describes as a “dramatic recovery”.
Porpoising and bounced landing badly damaged Atlas Air 767
US investigators have determined that improper flare technique led to a porpoised and bounced landing at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, badly damaging an Atlas Air Boeing 767-300ER.
FAA forming committee to develop ‘beyond line of sight’ drone rules
The Federal Aviation Administration is convening a committee tasked with recommending rules to permit “beyond line of sight” drone operations, a step toward allowing significantly broader use of unmanned aircraft.
JetBlue sees Q2 capacity down 15% compared to 2019
JetBlue Airways expects second quarter capacity to be 15% lower than during the same period in pre-coronavirus 2019 as the airline gears up for progressively higher demand as vaccination rates rise and fears around Covid-19 fade.
Canada ditches government hotel-stay quarantine for vaccinated citizens
Canada plans to allow vaccinated citizens and permanent residents arriving from abroad to bypass the mandatory quarantine in a government-authorised facility, a first tentative step as in the country’s re-opening to international travel.
WestJet chief executive Sims to retire at the end of 2021
WestJet chief executive and president Ed Sims will retire at the end of the year, citing family reasons.
Electra Aero unveils concept for seven-passenger commuter aircraft
Electra Aero, a company started by the founder of aerospace innovator Aurora Flight Sciences, has become the latest in a string of aerospace start-ups to unveil the design of an electric aircraft.
Ravn Alaska agrees to purchase Airflow’s in-development electric fixed-wing aircraft
Alaskan airline Ravn Alaska intends to purchase electric-powered short take-off and landing (eSTOL) aircraft being developed by San Francisco-area start-up Airflow.
US lifts 'do not travel' warning for Canada, Mexico, much of Europe
The US State Department has lowered its risk profile for travel to Canada and Mexico, just as Canada also considers easing some of its own strict restrictions for travellers who have been vaccinated against the coronavirus.
Boeing’s orders jumped by 20 jets in May
Boeing marked a fourth consecutive month of positive order activity in May, with orders jumping by 20 aircraft despite dozens of additional cancellations.
April air cargo demand up 12% from pre-crisis level: IATA
Global air cargo demand in April was up 12% from pre-crisis levels, according to IATA, as the sector continues to offer a rare positive airline story during the Covid-19 crisis.
Southwest orders 34 more 737 Max 7s
Southwest Airlines has ordered another 34 Boeing 737 Max 7s, bringing its total Max 7 orders to 234 jets in a move the company says reflects an improving financial outlook.
US Navy’s unmanned MQ-25 demos air-to-air refuelling of F/A-18 Super Hornet for first time
The US Navy’s Boeing MQ-25 Stingray unmanned air vehicle has demonstrated in-flight refuelling of an F/A-18F Super Hornet for the first time.
Macquarie to sell FBO operator Atlantic to investment firm KKR
New York Investment company KKR, which holds a substantial aviation portfolio, has agreed to purchase fixed-base operator Atlantic Aviation from Macquarie Infrastructure for $4.48 billion in cash and debt.
Garmin wins Collier Trophy for auto-land system
Garmin has won the 2020 Robert J Collier Trophy for its Autoland system – a technology approved for three general aviation aircraft that can complete fully autonomous landings in the event pilots become incapacitated.
Airline CEOs call for reopening of UK-USA travel corridor
The chief executives of the US and UK airlines that offer passenger services between the two countries have joined forces to call for the reopening of transatlantic travel.
Mis-rigged trim tabs discovered after fatal Navajo crash in South Carolina
Investigators probing a fatal accident involving a Piper PA-31P Navajo, on its first flight after maintenance, have discovered that elevator trim tabs were installed upside-down.
France opens to vaccinated US tourists on 9 June
France will open its borders to vaccinated US tourists next week, provided they bring a negative Covid test result that is less than 72 hours old.
US Air Force gets serious about delivering military cargo via space rocket
The US Air Force has named “Rocket Cargo” as its fourth “Vanguard” programme, meaning the concept is a top science and technology development priority for the service.
US and Canadian airlines call for border opening
US and Canadian airlines have appealed to the government of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau to ease travel restrictions between the countries, insisting high vaccination rates on both sides of the border make safe travel possible.
Airline Business Friday Briefing: A week of Boom and bust
If ever a week has demonstrated how much the luck of an airline’s home market is dictating its fortunes during the crisis, this was it.
Biden curtails US investment in AVIC, other aerospace players
US President Joe Biden has issued an executive order that bars US securities investment in 57 Chinese companies with defence ties, with airframer AVIC featuring prominently on the list.
JetBlue picks Airbus for A220 component MRO services
JetBlue Airways has signed a long-term Flight Hour Services component MRO contract with Airbus, becoming the airframer’s first North American customer for the service.
Boeing lost confidence in Aerion investment, remains committed to Wisk: Boeing CEO
Following the recent shuttering of Boeing-backed supersonic aircraft developer Aerion, Boeing’s chief executive says his company lost confidence in the value of its investment in supersonic start-ups.
Long term, Boeing expects 787 deliveries will hit pre-pandemic levels: CEO
Boeing intends eventually to ramp up 787 production to a pre-pandemic level of 14 jets monthly despite a decision to end production at one of two sites.
Calhoun again urges for improved US-China trade relations
Boeing’s chief executive is again calling on the US government to normalise trade relations with China, a country that accounts for a vast portion of Boeing’s historic and potential aircraft sales.
American expects business travel to return more quickly
American Airlines says business travel is returning more quickly than originally expected, and leisure bookings will continue to remain strong through the coming months.
Boeing preps to begin 2021 ‘ecoDemonstrator’ programme using 737 Max 9
Boeing will continue its ecoDemonstrator programme in 2021, using a 737 Max 9 to evaluate new cabin sidewalls, 3D-printed cabin air vents, noise-reducing engine nacelles and a new fire-fighting chemical. The company will also use the jet to evaluate flight-control technology, atmosphere-measuring equipment and the use of biofuel.
Is IATA right to call for ‘data-driven decisions’ on international travel?
IATA’s belief is that draconian government restrictions are standing in the way of a meaningful restart of international travel, and that data proves those restrictions are an overreaction to the actual risks.
United to purchase 15 of Boom Supersonic’s Overture, financial commitment undisclosed
United Airlines has agreed to purchase 15 of Boom Supersonic’s in-development faster-than-sound airliner Overture, joining at least two other airlines that have partnered with Boom.
Airlines invited to bid for Oneworld London-US summer 2022 slots
Airlines have been invited to apply for slots between London and the USA, as part of interim measures imposed to address concerns over transatlantic routes operated under the Oneworld alliance’s joint business arrangement.
US Air Force beefs up BACN fleet
Bombardier’s Learjet unit has secured a US Air Force contract worth up to $465 million for a potential six E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) aircraft.
Red 6, augmented realty fighter pilot training start-up, raises $30 million
Red 6, an augmented reality fighter pilot training start-up, has raised a $30 million round of financing.
The airline start-ups trying to confound Covid crisis by launching during pandemic
FlightGlobal has spoken to the leaders behind start-ups across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas about their respective launch carriers’ ambitions and for perspectives on starting an airline during the crisis.
P&W matures low-emission technologies but near-term focus rests on GTF
A cadre of engineers and scientists at Pratt & Whitney and other companies within the Raytheon Technologies group are busy advancing next-generation technologies, like electric propulsion and the use of hydrogen fuel.
US Air Force asks to retire 201 older aircraft, plans to invest in R&D and new aircraft
The US Air Force is asking the US Congress to let it retire 201 aircraft in fiscal year 2022, in order to reinvest savings from not operating and maintaining those aircraft into research and development, as well as procurement of next-generation aircraft and weapons.
NASA launches programme to support future single-aisle commercial aircraft
NASA aims to launch a programme to advance technologies needed to support development of a “next-generation single-aisle” transport aircraft that is 25% more efficient than jets flying today.
US FAA calls for ‘extreme caution’ when flying over Belarus
The US Federal Aviation Administration has urged US airlines to “exercise extreme caution” when overflying Belarus.
US Air Force completes Golden Horde autonomous bomb testing
Six modified Boeing GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs, dropped simultaneously from two Lockheed Martin F-16s, established communications with each other and a ground station, and after receiving new instructions mid-flight, autonomously swarmed and hit two targets.
President Biden proposes tax credits for biofuel and hydrogen production
President Joe Biden has proposed instituting tax credits for the production of both hydrogen fuel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a move mirroring broader support from industry and lawmakers for aviation-related clean-fuel subsidies.
After FAA requests more data, Boeing halts 787 deliveries again
Boeing has again halted 787 deliveries, this time after the Federal Aviation Administration declined to approve a Boeing-proposed algorithm related to inspections of a fuselage issue.
Canadian airlines welcome recommendation to end federal quarantine mandate
Canadian airlines are welcoming a report published by that government’s health advisory board recommending an end to a mandatory quarantine requirement for inbound international travellers.
IATA chief economist signs off with optimistic outlook for airline recovery
Brian Pearce’s final IATA media briefing as the association’s chief economist saw him provide a relatively positive industry outlook, after a year in which he had become accustomed to delivering unimaginably bleak news about airline fortunes.
Canadian travel sector presses government for reopening strategy
Representatives from Canada’s airlines, airports and tourism sector have called on the government to quickly develop a national strategy to reopen the country to travel.
Hawaiian shutters Ohana regional subsidiary
Hawaiian Airlines has pulled the plug on its Ohana by Hawaiian subsidiary as the pandemic and ongoing risk mitigation measures have led to a sharp decline in neighbour island service demand.
USAF bungling caused KC-46’s $100m refuelling boom redesign: Inspector General
By overlooking design changes made by Boeing to the KC-46A’s refuelling boom, the US Air Force (USAF) missed an opportunity to catch problems early and stave off a $100 million redesign effort.
Breeze Airways gets airborne with first flight from Tampa to Charleston
The first Breeze Airways flight took off from Tampa International airport at 10:44 local time on 27 May, marking the launch of a new US airline and another chapter in the start-up-studded career of founder David Neeleman.
USAF should consider supersonic business jets for battlefield management: think tank
The Mitchell Institute is calling on the US Air Force to consider using in-development supersonic business jets as next-generation command and control aircraft.
Transat COO Guerard to succeed retiring chief Eustache
Transat AT chief operations officer Annick Guerard will become chief executive of the company on 27 May, succeeding current CEO Jean-Marc Eustache, who is retiring.
Honda unveils new HondaJet variant, Elite S
Honda Aircraft has unveiled a new variant of its HondaJet, the Elite S, which has upgraded avionics and 120nm additional range.
IATA expects airline passenger numbers to exceed pre-Covid levels in 2023
Airline industry body IATA has outlined an “optimistic” outlook for the Covid-19 recovery, forecasting that pre-crisis passenger numbers will be exceeded as soon as 2023.
US-Mexico flights continue despite safety downgrade, Delta strips code from Aeromexico flights
US carriers will continue to operate flights to Mexico normally following the Federal Aviation Administration’s recent downgrade of the country following a safety evaluation.
Airline recovery brings fresh cash-crunch risk as costs return: IATA chief
Airlines will face a new cash-crunch challenge as the resumption of operations sees a range of costs return alongside a lack of liquidity from forward bookings, in the view of IATA director general Willie Walsh.
Post-summer US travel demand uncertain: American
At the moment, US airlines are riding a surge in demand for domestic leisure travel this summer.
Lawmakers urge Biden, FAA to address Belarus overflight concern
Two US lawmakers are warning that airspace over Belarus is “not safe” for critics of that country’s government, calling a 23 May diversion of a Ryanair flight to Minsk “state-sponsored hijacking”.
P&W views ‘sole-source’ contract as required for development of next commercial engine
Developing a new commercial aircraft engine will be tough to justify for Pratt & Whitney without an airframer committing to a single engine type for their next clean-sheet commercial aircraft.
US Navy declares Joint Precision Approach and Landing System operational
The US Navy has declared initial operational capability (IOC) for Raytheon’s Joint Precision Approach and Landing System aboard its nuclear aircraft carriers.
FAA orders more V2500 disk inspections, citing ‘uncontained’ failure risk
The Federal Aviation Administration has issued an emergency order requiring aircraft operators to inspect high-pressure turbine disks in some International Aero Engines V2500s, which power Airbus A320-family jets.
Raytheon looks at integrating AMRAAM-ER in F-35A internal carriage
The US Air Force’s F-35A could field two examples of the larger missile, one in each internal weapons bay.
P&W aims for new Asheville site to begin producing airfoils in 2022
Pratt & Whitney intends to begin producing high-pressure turbine airfoils for commercial and military aircraft engines at its new North Carolina facility by the second half of 2022.
Delta hires GE executive Janki as new CFO
Delta Air Lines has hired longtime General Electric executive Daniel Janki as its next chief financial officer.
Neeleman’s Breeze Airways to be airborne from 27 May
Breeze Airways, the new low-cost airline led by serial aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman will begin operating flights next week, spooling up to a network of 39 routes between 16 cities across the eastern half of the USA by July.
WestJet 737 overrun crew did not anticipate tailwind from runway change
Canadian investigators believe a WestJet Boeing 737-800 overran at Halifax after its crew failed to realise that a landing runway change would result in a tailwind, rather than a crosswind, during the approach.
US Special Operations Command explores amphibious MC-130 transport concept
The US Special Operations Command is exploring turning its Lockheed Martin MC-130J into an amphibious aircraft by adding two large floats below its hull.
General Atomics teases new addition to its portfolio of air-launched effects
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems is teasing a new air-launched effect, a part of a growing portfolio of in-development drones that it plans to launch from its MQ-9A Reaper and MQ-1C Gray Eagle unmanned air vehicles.
US start-up Global Crossing to lease A321P2Fs from ST Engineering
Singapore-based ST Engineering’s aircraft management business will lease up to five Airbus A321P2F converted freighters to US start-up Global Crossing Airlines, with deliveries to begin in 2022.
Cirrus warned not to overshoot turn before Colorado collision
Investigators probing the mid-air collision involving a Fairchild Metroliner and a Cirrus SR22 over Colorado are trying to establish why the Cirrus apparently overshot its final approach path after each aircraft was cleared to land on separate – but closely-spaced – parallel runways.
Boeing’s many hurdles on the path to recovery
Boeing executives insist the company has solid plans to address its many challenges, but people who follow the airframer are increasingly eager to understand exactly what that plan entails.
Biden arms sales policies face new questions, but similarities to Trump and Obama remain
Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. That’s more or less the conclusion of analysts watching the first few months of US President Joe Biden’s arms export decisions and policy statements.
eVTOL developer Wisk files motion for preliminary injunction against Archer
Urban air mobility aircraft developer Wisk Aero has filed a court motion to prevent competitor Archer Aviation from using what it calls its “confidential trade secrets” it claims Archer stole, before the case goes to trial.
US Air Force tests using F-15’s EPAWSS to clear path for F-35
At its Northern Edge 21 exercises in Alaska, the US Air Force (USAF) tested the Boeing F-15 conducting an electronic attack to clear a path for a Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter.
FAA dishing out hefty fines to combat surge in ‘unruly’ air passengers
The Federal Administration has been dishing out more and higher fines in recent weeks to combat a surge disturbances caused by “unruly” passengers, including incidents involving violence against flight crew.
US lawmakers seek ‘records’ related to potential ongoing 737 and 787 production issues
Two US lawmakers have requested additional records from Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration related to “continued issues” involving 737 Max and 787 production and quality-control concerns.
US aviation industry seeks a cut of massive infrastructure bill
The US aerospace and airline industries are seeking a slice of the $2 trillion infrastructure-investment proposal working through the US Congress, requesting tax credits, grants and other funds for the purpose of advancing clean-energy technology.
Lufthansa calls for transatlantic air travel corridor as bookings surge
German flag carrier Lufthansa has called for a “clear perspective” on a transatlantic air corridor between the USA and Europe as bookings for long-haul travel surge.
Beta raises $368m to support development of its Alia aircraft
Beta Technologies, a developer of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL), has raised $368 million in funding to support development of its Alia aircraft
Flight schools, instructors face regulatory questions following US court ruling
Flight instructors fear a recent US court ruling could cause major headaches for the pilot-training community, just as airlines begin to again warn of a pilot shortage in the coming years.
Will Airbus transform the aerospace industry?
Two years into the role, Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury has developed a clear plan and is rapidly guiding the manufacturer through necessary transformational changes, writes Patriot Industrial Partners managing director Alex Krutz
Bulgaria’s Cargo Air takes Europe's first AEI 737-800 freighter
Bulgarian operator Cargo Air has become the first European carrier to take delivery of a converted Boeing 737-800 freighter from US specialist Aeronautical Engineers.
Sriwijaya 737-500 crash probe spurs order to check autothrottle computers
Investigations into the fatal Sriwijaya Air Boeing 737-500 accident earlier this year have spurred an order to operators of older 737 variants to conduct autothrottle checks aimed at detecting possible flap synchronisation component failure.
Porter pushes tentative restart from June to July
Porter Airlines will delay its tentative date for resuming flights to 20 July, marking the 10th time the regional airline has moved the date forward since shuttering its operations at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic downturn in March 2020.
Babcock, Leonardo to jointly pursue Canada’s Future Aircrew Training programme
Babcock Canada and Leonardo Canada have signed a letter of intent to jointly pursue Canada’s Future Aircrew Training Program (FAcT).
Eviation receives Alice’s first Magnix electric propulsion unit
Eviation Aircraft has received the first electric propulsion unit (EPU) for its in-development all-electric passenger aircraft Alice, and still aims to have Alice airborne by year-end.
United expands domestic and international schedule
United Airlines has added 400 daily domestic and international flights to its schedule in anticipation of a run on air travel during the summer vacation season following the coronavirus pandemic-driven downturn.
JetBlue outlines CFO succession plan
JetBlue Airways’ head of treasury and investor relations Ursula Hurley will become acting chief financial officer effective 12 June.
General Atomics MQ-1C Gray Eagle controlled via tablet on ground
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems demonstrated a soldier on the ground using a tablet computer to control an MQ-1C Gray Eagle Extended Range unmanned air vehicle.
FAA grants Breeze Airways air carrier certificate
Breeze Airways, the startup airline from aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, has received its long-awaited air carrier certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration which will allow it to begin passenger revenue operations.
Investor scraps plan to acquire Transat: reports
Canadian billionaire investor Pierre Karl Peladeau has reportedly scrapped his effort to acquire Transat AT, the Montreal company that owns leisure carrier Air Transat.
CDC relaxes mask mandate; face coverings still required for travel
While the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has lifted most mask-wearing requirements for vaccinated people in the USA, it stressed that wearing a face covering while travelling is still mandatory.
GE Aviation finishes testing on first XA100 adaptive cycle engine
The US Air Force is interested in re-engining the Lockheed Martin F-35A stealth fighter with an adaptive engine to increase the aircraft’s 1,200nm (2,222km) range, which is viewed as too short for attacking targets within China.
Spirit again charges JetBlue-American alliance undermines competition
Spirit Airlines has once again complained to the Department of Transportation (DOT) that the “Northeast Alliance” (NEA) between JetBlue Airways and American Airlines is undermining competition.
Southwest expands schedule to Hawaii
Southwest Airlines will greatly expand its flying to the Hawaiian islands from the US mainland beginning in June.
FAA approves Boeing fix for grounded 737 Max electrical issue
Boeing’s fix for the electrical issue that grounded 106 in-service 737 Max and paused delivery of new aircraft has been approved by the FAA.
Airbus procurement chief assigned to lead A220 towards profitability
Airbus systems procurement chief Benoit Schultz is to take over as head of the A220 operation, as chief executive of Airbus Canada, succeeding Philippe Balducchi who has led the division for nearly three years.
American will ‘slowly’ relaunch international routes
American Airlines will bring back long-haul international routes “slowly and cautiously”, accounting for travel restrictions and gauging passenger demand to overseas destinations.
US Air Force shows F-15E loaded with five stealthy JASSMs
The proof-of-concept shows that the F-15E could more than double its capacity of long-range cruise missiles.
Mangled Metroliner lands safely after mid-air collision
Two aircraft collided over Colorado on 12 May, with both landing safely despite extensive damage.
Fractional-jet operator Airshare orders three Challenger 350s, takes 17 options
US fractional jet ownership company Airshare has ordered three Bombardier Challenger 350 business jets and taken options to purchase another 17, with the first three deliveries scheduled for 2021.
AerCap shareholders back GECAS acquisition
Leasing firm AerCap’s shareholders have voted in favour of the proposed merger with US leasing giant GECAS, which the two companies unveiled in March.
Honeywell’s $13m penalty shows it’s tricky doing business with China and Pentagon
Honeywell reached a $13 million settlement with the US Department of State over alleged violations of the Arms Export Control Act and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (better known as ITAR).
US lawmakers aim to prevent cut-rate airlines from operating to the US
The US House of Representatives has introduced a bill that would prevent cut-rate airlines which have been established under “flags of convenience” to operate in the US.
Canada to invest an additional C$700m in airport infrastructure
Canada has set aside C$700 million ($579 million) to support the country’s airport infrastructure as it recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.
Full impact of US pipeline shutdown still unclear, American reroutes two flights
At least one US airline has rerouted flights after a cyber-attack forced the shutdown of a pipeline system that provides nearly half the fuel consumed in the eastern USA.
Boeing’s orders inch higher in April on fewer cancellations
Boeing’s aircraft orders outnumbered cancellations again in April, marking the third consecutive month of order expansion for the Chicago airframer.
B-52 completes long-range kill chain with simulated hypersonic missile attack
The US Air Force demonstrated a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress bomber carrying out a simulated hypersonic missile strike using targeting data from sensors positioned more than 1,000nm (1,852km) away.
321 Precision nears first A321-200PCF delivery, more conversions to begin in June
Aircraft conversion shop 321 Precision Conversions is close to delivering its first Airbus A321 converted freighter, and plans to begin work on a second conversion in June.
Unions squabble over contract for Canadian cargo pilots
Canada’s Unifor union has sharply criticised US-based pilot union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) for “interference” in pilot-contract negotiations with cargo and charter carrier Cargojet.
Arlington Capital buys Triumph’s aerostructures sites, names business ‘Qarbon’
Triumph Group has completed the divestment of three aerostructures manufacturing sites to private equity company Arlington Capital Partners, which has renamed the businesses Qarbon Aerospace.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: May 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Super Hornet conducts captive carry test with AARGM-ER
The US Navy has completed the first captive carry test of the Northrop Grumman AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile – Extended Range (AARGM-ER) aboard a Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet.
Breeze backtracks on recruiting college students as flight attendants
Breeze Airways, the new low-cost startup airline founded by entrepreneur David Neeleman, is backtracking on a plan to hire only university students to work as flight attendants after coming under fire for the programme last week.
Kratos to deliver first XQ-58A Valkyrie production unit in a ‘couple of months’ to USAF
Kratos is anticipating that the XQ-58A Valkyrie will move toward operations.
Air Canada loses C$1.3bn in Q1; calls on government to end restrictions
Air Canada continues to haemorrhage cash as the airline’s home country keeps its air carriers in the dark about a time-line for easing strict restrictions that are hindering them from returning to a pre-coronavirus normal.
Airbus chief sees single-aisle ‘triopoly’ with China as early as end-decade
Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury believes its single-aisle duopoly with Boeing could transform into a three-way competition by the end of the decade if China progresses strongly with its Comac C919.
Air Tractor, L3Harris launch AT-802U Sky Warden light attack aircraft
Air Tractor has teamed with L3Harris Technologies to produce the AT-802U Sky Warden, a new variant of its light attack aircraft.
Skyborg autonomy ‘brain’ flies for first time aboard Kratos UTAP-22 UAV
The US Air Force’s (USAF’s) Skyborg autonomy core system flew for the first time aboard a Kratos UTAP-22 Mako tactical unmanned vehicle (UAV) at Tyndall AFB in Florida.
Avelo plans US East Coast expansion with New Haven base
Recently launched US start-up Avelo Airlines will expand to the US East Coast this year with flights from Tweed New Haven airport in Connecticut.
Bombardier makes first-quarter loss but hopes worst of downturn ‘behind us’
Bombardier’s operating business lost $251 million in the first quarter of 2021, but the company’s chief executive insists the aerospace industry has turned a corner and that an upswing is under way.
Sun Country earns $12.4m profit in first quarter
Sun Country Airlines’ diversified business model – which includes scheduled passenger services, charter flights and freight transport – helped propel the airline to a first-quarter profit.
Pilots concerned over increasing space threat as heavy Chinese booster re-enters
North American airline pilot association ALPA International is expressing concern that there is no formal process to warn commercial crews of the increasing risks posed by space debris re-entering the atmosphere.
Boeing to open first 737 freighter conversion line in Latin America
Boeing has tapped Costa Rican MRO Coopesa to launch Latin America’s first Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) production line.
US Air Force signs research contract for ‘Bell’s High Speed VTOL’
The US Air Force Research Laboratory has contracted Bell to research a high-speed vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
Atlas posts $90m profit as cargo business soars
Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings continues to profit from higher freight demand during the global health crisis, as long-haul passenger flights - and the belly cargo that is transported in them - are still far from pre-pandemic levels.
Acubed CEO Cousin takes engineering job at Universal Hydrogen
Mark Cousin, who has been chief executive of Airbus innovation arm Acubed, is leaving that company to be vice-president of engineering at hydrogen-fuel development start-up Universal Hydrogen.
Spirit AeroSystems loses $171m in first quarter on back of 787 and A350 costs
A $72 million charge against two key widebody aircraft programmes, combined with other pandemic-related expenses, pushed Spirit AeroSystems to a $171 million loss in the first quarter of 2021, against a loss of $163 million in the same period of 2020.
AeroVironment lays out vision for teaming aerial drones and robotic vehicles
Long-time tactical drone maker AeroVironment has completed its acquisition of ground robot manufacturer Telerob for $45.4 million in cash and a pay-off of $9.4 million of the firm’s debt.
Allegiant ‘bullish’ about summer travel, after turning small profit
Allegiant Travel Company, the parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air, turned a slim profit in the first three months of the year as the company prepares for a busy summer with a “bullish” outlook.
Domestic and cargo pick-up in March fail to offset international traffic gloom
A strong recovery in the large Chinese domestic market was the key driver for an improved global passenger traffic performance in March, though RPKs still remain two-thirds below pre-crisis levels.
Corrosion caused by storage prompts FAA to order Leap-1B checks
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring airlines perform checks to prevent storage-induced corrosion issues involving CFM International Leap-1B engines.
Environmental impact now part of airline fleet thinking: Udvar-Hazy
While Air Lease executive chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy sees airlines giving greater attention to addressing environmental concerns in their fleet planning amid heightened pressure to tackle aviation’s climate impact, he does not believe it will change the useful life of aircraft.
‘Project Hydra’ connects US Air Force F-35 and F-22 via U-2 spyplane
The US Air Force’s Lockheed Martin F-35 and F-22 stealth fighters passed data to one another using a communications gateway aboard a U-2 spyplane.
Aviation and tourism groups appeal for US-UK travel corridor
US airlines have joined almost 50 other aviation and travel organisations, appealing to the governments of the USA and UK to open up a travel corridor between the two countries “as soon as safely possible”.
Upgrading CH-47 Chinook with more powerful GE T408 turboshaft is feasible: US Army
The US Army believes it is feasible to upgrade its fleet of Boeing CH-47 Chinooks with the GE T408 turboshaft engine.
Perlan plans for 2021 flights following loss of ‘compass’ Enevoldson
Einar Enevoldson was the legendary test pilot behind a project that has flown sailplanes to altitudes exceeding 70,000ft, capturing records and advancing high-altitude scientific research.
US extends mask mandate in airports, aircraft
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the government agency responsible for security screenings across 450 commercial airports, has extended a mandatory face mask requirement by four months.
Commercial aircraft market should reach equilibrium by 2023: Udvar-Hazy
The commercial aircraft market should return to something more like its historical balance by 2023, following an accelerated retirement and replacement cycle, in the view of Air Lease executive chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy.
JetBlue takes delivery of its first A321LR
JetBlue Airways has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321LR aircraft, with which it intends to launch transatlantic service later this year.
Glimmers of optimism for US MRO sector, recovery pace unclear
The Covid-19 pandemic has jumbled the aircraft maintenance and repair industry, driving down prices for some aircraft components and leaving MRO shops reeling from depressed demand.
Profitability will return with business and long-haul travel: United’s Kirby
United Airlines’ chief executive Scott Kirby says that the carrier will not turn a profit until business travellers and long-haul international travellers return in greater numbers.
Transat secures C$700m in government aid
Transat, the parent company of Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat, has reached a deal to borrow up to C$700 million ($569 million) from the Canadian government.
Boeing VC-25B takes $318m loss due to Covid restrictions and supplier dispute
Boeing’s V-25B was snagged by coronavirus restrictions and a dispute with a supplier in the first quarter of 2021, causing the company to report a $318 million loss on the Presidential Aircraft Replacement programme.
Spirit AeroSystems acquires MRO provider Applied Aerodynamics
Aerostructures manufacturer Spirit AeroSystems has acquired US composites MRO provider Applied Aerodynamics.
New aircraft efficiency will rely less on propulsion, more on engineering: Boeing CEO
Boeing chief executive David Calhoun believes that the next generation of aircraft will distinguish themselves by the way they are engineered and constructed, rather than through increasingly efficient engines alone.
Avelo launches operations with flight from Burbank to Santa Rosa
Avelo Airlines, a new US startup passenger carrier, has completed its inaugural flight from Burbank, in the Los Angeles suburbs, to Santa Rosa, north of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Boeing aims to evenly split narrowbody aircraft market share
Boeing aspires to split the narrowbody aircraft market evenly with Airbus after losing ground to the European airframer as a result of the nearly two-year grounding of its 737 Max.
Boeing delivers nine 787s after five-month pause
Boeing has delivered nine of its widebody 787 Dreamliners following a five-month break due to quality issues.
Boeing pauses deliveries of 737 Max while awaiting electrical fix
Boeing has paused deliveries of its 737 Max narrowbody as it works on a fix for the electrical issues that forced airlines to temporarily pull some of their aircraft from service.
Boeing calls on US government to normalise trade relationship with China
Boeing is calling on the administration of president Joe Biden to reinstate trade relations with China, saying aircraft orders from that country will be key to the airframer’s long-term health.
Boeing trims loss to $561m in first quarter as deliveries accelerate
Boeing narrowed its first-quarter loss to $561 million, a massive improvement on the $8.4 billion loss it registered in the fourth quarter of last year, and better than the $641 million loss in the same period of 2020.
Hawaiian Airlines Q1 loss narrows as US mainland passengers return
Hawaiian Airlines says it saw a marked increase in passengers from the US mainland, which helped stem the carrier’s losses for the first quarter of the year.
P&W keeps profitable in Q1, engine deliveries inch higher
Engine maker Pratt & Whitney squeaked out a $20 million operating profit in the first quarter of 2021, a period during which its deliveries of large commercial aircraft engines bumped higher.
Magnix and Boom CEOs ask lawmakers to support electric aviation, sustainable fuel
The chief executive of propulsion company Magnix has urged the US government to set ambitious electric-aircraft goals, while the head of Boom Supersonic has asked the government to throw weight behind sustainable fuel.
First flight of Boom’s XB-1 demonstrator could happen next year: CEO
The chief executive of Boom Supersonic has left open the possibility that the company’s supersonic demonstrator may not get airborne until next year.
US Special Ops buys AeroVironment’s anti-armour Switchblade 600 loitering munition
US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has awarded AeroVironment a $26.1 million contract to purchase the company’s Switchblade 600, a loitering munition effective against light armour.
JetBlue narrows loss as customers book further ahead
JetBlue Airways has seen “meaningful progress” to a sustainable rebound in the past weeks, as passengers begin to return in greater numbers and to plan further ahead.
GE Aviation lost 1,900 Leap orders in 12 months
GE Aviation lost orders for about 1,900 Leap-1B turbofans in the last year, a period influenced both by the Boeing 737 Max grounding and the pandemic.
All USAF B-1B bombers grounded for fuel pump issue, as fleet shows its age
The US Air Force grounded all of its Boeing B-1B Lancer bombers on 20 April after a fuel pump issue was discovered.
NASA envisions revived US regional air transportation network
The USA’s many small, underused airports, combined with autonomous and electric-propulsion technologies, could enable a vast new US regional air transportation system.
Kaman’s autonomous K-Max Titan helicopter makes first flight
Kaman’s unmanned K-Max Titan helicopter flew for the first time on 21 April.
Guangzhou displaces Atlanta as Chinese airports dominate latest ranking
Guangzhou Baiyun displaced Atlanta Hartsfield as the world’s busiest airport in 2020, as Chinese facilities shot up the global ranking to dominate the top 10, according to preliminary data released by ACI World in late April.
Second F-15EX test aircraft arrives at Eglin AFB
The US Air Force’s second Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter arrived at Eglin AFB in Florida on 20 April, ahead of the service launching operational test and evaluation work on the new model.
Reservation system outage hits startup Avelo Airlines
US low-cost start-up Avelo Airlines is one of 20 carriers affected by a reservations system outage, leaving the airline unable to sell tickets one week before it plans to begin operations.
Saab readies West Lafayette site for T-7A trainer work
Saab’s new West Lafayette production site in the USA has been completed, as it prepares to set up aft fuselage manufacturing work for the T-7A advanced jet trainer developed with prime contractor Boeing.
Fatal Alaskan mid-air collision illustrates see-and-avoid inadequacy: inquiry
US investigators have found that two sightseeing aircraft were effectively invisible to their pilots before they fatally collided over an Alaskan lake, highlighting the inadequacy of conventional see-and-avoid strategies.
US lawmakers slam F-35 programme for sustainment problems
US lawmakers unloaded anger against Lockheed Martin, Pratt & Whitney and the Department of Defense (DoD) during a 22 April hearing, criticising the group for not meeting F-35 stealth fighter programme sustainment goals.
Delta orders 25 A321neos, accelerates Airbus widebody deliveries
Delta Air Lines has firmed orders for 25 Airbus A321neos and pulled forward A350 and A330 deliveries, reflecting the airline’s anticipation that passenger demand will accelerate in coming years.
Universal Hydrogen lands $20.5m investment, Airbus and JetBlue arms contribute
Investment arms of Airbus and JetBlue Airways are among companies that have invested a combined $20.5 million in Universal Hydrogen, the Paul Eremenko-backed firm developing a hydrogen-fuel distribution and storage system.
Southwest swings to Q1 profit, ‘the worst is behind us’
Southwest Airlines made a profit in the first quarter thanks to federal payroll support payments, but says passenger demand remains “inconsistent by region” as the airline shuffles its fleet to meet fluctuating demand.
Bill to reduce disease transmission on jets targets airworthiness standards
US lawmakers have proposed a union-backed bill that seeks to prevent the spread of disease within the commercial aviation sector, including by changing aircraft certification requirements.
American sees aviation rebound 'accelerating'
American Airlines sees the pace of the aviation industry rebound “accelerating” as shifts in customer travel behaviour have forced the carrier to be exceedingly flexible when planning its fleet.
Alaska stems losses in Q1, buoyed by US government funds
Alaska Air Group lost $131 million in the first quarter of 2021, a significant improvement from the previous quarter thanks largely to pandemic-related US government aid.
Why Boeing's test pilot Heather Ross has the job of dreams
Heather Ross has a job that many aviators around the world would dream of. She is a test pilot at Boeing, currently working on the Chicago-based airframer’s newest project, the 777X.
C208 suffered excursion after unstable approach and long landing
Investigators have found that a Cessna C208B operating a cargo flight conducted an unstable approach before landing long and hard, and suffering a runway excursion in the British Virgin Islands.
Business aviation programmes all set for post-pandemic recovery
The pandemic has buffeted private aviation more lightly than its commercial cousin – some areas have done surprisingly well. But Covid-19 continues to have an impact, with activity and sales down.
US Air Force starts MQ-9 Reaper upgrades to keep UAV relevant against sophisticated foes
The US Air Force (USAF) has started upgrades to part of its General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-9 Reaper fleet to keep the unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) effective against near-peer adversaries, such as China and Russia.
Spirit anticipates positive earnings in 2021
Spirit Airlines is optimistic that it will be one of the first carriers to pull out of the coronavirus-driven industry crisis as leisure travellers begin to return and book vacations in greater numbers.
Aviation leaders ask for mask mandate extension, reopening to tourists
Aviation leaders have asked the US government to extend a national mask mandate aboard aircraft and in airports, and to develop a robust plan to reopen the country to foreign visitors.
Canada proposes C$2 billion in aerospace aid
Canada’s federal government has proposed providing the aerospace industry with C$2 billion ($1.6 billion) in aid over multiple years to help the sector recover from the pandemic downturn.
Airline recovery hopes blighted by slow recovery despite bright pockets
It says something about the depth of the airline industry’s troubles that even an extra $9 billion in losses this year would leave the industry significant healthier than in 2020.
JetBlue and American unveil next stage of ‘Northeast Alliance’
American Airlines and JetBlue Airways are again expanding their networks from Boston and New York’s John F Kennedy International airport as part of their so-called Northeast Alliance.
American recalls pilots, will hire up to 900 more by end-2022
American Airlines is recalling all of its pilots ahead of what the carrier anticipates will be a busy summer travel season.
US DOT’s inspector general begins third review of FAA’s Max oversight
The US Department of Transportation’s top inspector has commenced a third investigation into the Federal Aviation Administration’s oversight of the Boeing 737 Max, this time examining the FAA’s grounding and re-certification of the jetliner.
Honeywell pushes development of alternatives to GPS
To deal with disruptions to GPS, sometimes caused by malicious jamming or spoofing, Honeywell is developing several alternative navigation technologies for military aircraft.
Boeing shareholders grant board chair Kellner another term
Boeing’s shareholders re-elected ten company board members, including chair Lawrence Kellner, to another term on 20 April, while rejecting a proposal to require the company disclose more lobbying details.
Boeing plans to transfer Paine Field Dreamlifter center to FedEx: report
Boeing declines to comment about a recent report that the company has nearly finalised a deal to transfer the lease its Dreamlifter cargo facility at Paine Field in Everett to air cargo giant FedEx.
United to return 737 Max and 777s to schedule
United Airlines anticipates returning two Boeing aircraft types to its schedule after dealing with separate safety issues that grounded both this year.
Boeing CFO Smith to retire, Boeing board ups retirement age for CEO Calhoun
Longtime Boeing chief financial officer Greg Smith, an executive who some observers had suspected might be the company’s next chief executive, will retire from the airframer, effective 9 July.
Saab ships first aft fuselage for Boeing’s T-7A jet trainer
Saab has shipped its first aft fuselage section for an engineering and manufacturing development-phase example of the US Air Force’s Boeing T-7A Red Hawk advanced jet trainer.
Swiss company H55 to provide batteries for Harbour Air’s electric Beaver
Swiss battery company H55 has joined Harbour Air and Magnix in an effort to develop and certificate an all-electric De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver seaplane.
Tactical drone, powered by solar panels and hydrogen fuel cell, flies 24h
The US Naval Research Laboratory flew a Hybrid Tiger unmanned air vehicle (UAV) for more than 24h in November 2020, its longest flight demonstrated.
United loses $1.4bn in Q1, sees path to profitability
United Airlines lost $1.4 billion in the first quarter but sees a path to profitability as customers return to air travel in greater numbers.
Small rotorcraft ‘Ingenuity’ flies on Mars
NASA has flown a small rotorcraft on Mars, the first powered controlled flight of an aircraft on another planet.
FAA subjects all US 787s to decompression panel inspections
The US Federal Aviation Administration is expanding to all US-registered Boeing 787s an airworthiness directive (AD) related to potential failure of decompression panels.
United adds flights to Croatia, Greece and Iceland
United Airlines has added three new international routes for the summer travel season, as it banks on vacationers travelling abroad as soon as they are vaccinated and travel restrictions are lifted.
UK regulator clears path for JetBlue transatlantic debut
UK regulators have cleared JetBlue Airways to launch flights to London from New York and Boston, a further step in the carrier’s plans to begin transatlantic services this year.
David Neeleman ready for his fifth act with Breeze Airways
After launching four successful airlines in 30 years, serial entrepreneur David Neeleman’s latest project sees him targeting underserved US cities with Breeze Airways
Boeing delivered 89 737 Max since December, airlines place them in storage
Boeing has delivered almost 90 737 Max since US regulators lifted the type’s grounding last November, though airlines have placed those jet in storage, according to Cirium fleets data.
FAA proposal targets risk of GEnx ‘uncommanded’ thrust
The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed that airlines take steps to address the risk that GE Aviation GEnx turbofans might experience uncommanded increase in thrust.
US regional carrier ExpressJet plans comeback
ExpressJet, a US regional carrier which ceased operations in September, has requested to resume scheduled service under its own brand.
First 777-300ER for freighter conversion joins Israeli commemorative flypast
Israel Aerospace Industries has flown a Boeing 777-300ER set for freighter conversion in a formation to mark the anniversary of Israeli independence.
Discussion of restriction-free air travel is cause for optimism
It made sense for Willie Walsh to use his first briefing as IATA director general to insist that Covid-related health measures – such as pre-flight testing and vaccination certificates – should only be in place for as long as is necessary.
Xwing conducts first fully autonomous gate-to-gate cargo flight
Autonomous aircraft company Xwing says its Cessna Grand Caravan 208B has completed its first “fully autonomous gate-to-gate demonstration of a commercial cargo aircraft”.
US Air Force HH-60W combat rescue helicopter finishes developmental tests
The US Air Force’s Sikorsky HH-60W Jolly Green II combat rescue helicopter finished its developmental test programme on 13 April.
Commercial aircraft delivery funds tumbled 40% in 2020
Airlines, lessors and other financiers laid out $59 billion for the purchase of new commercial aircraft in 2020 – a full 40% less funding than was available in 2019.
Delta loses $1.2bn in Q1, aims for profitable Q3
Delta Air Lines aims to return to profitability in the third quarter as domestic travel ramps up following the year-long coronavirus downturn.
Blocked middle seats cut coronavirus transmission risk: US government report
Blocking middle seats on commercial jets does help reduce the spread of coronavirus.
Airline Business Index puts industry at 0.59 of pre-Covid size
The first Airline Business Index put the airline industry at 0.59 of its pre-pandemic size at the end of 2020 – with 1 being the size at end-2019 – amid the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
What future does the A380 have in a post-pandemic travel world?
Already a luxury of debatable value to many operators before the crisis, the A380 appears even less well-suited to a market featuring depressed travel demand and a focus on cargo
GA Telesis orders more 737-800 converted freighters
Commercial aviation industry services specialist GA Telesis is ordering another four Boeing 737-800SF converted freighters, the modified airframe developed by Aeronautical Engineers.
American plans to fly 90% of domestic capacity during the summer
American Airlines says that it plans to fly 90% of its normal domestic seat capacity and 80% of its international capacity during the summer season as customers begin to return to air travel in greater numbers after the beginning of the coronavirus health crisis.
US Air Force claims longest air-to-air missile shot with AIM-120 AMRAAM
The US Air Force claims that it achieved the longest known air-to-air missile shot in March 2021.
Boeing continues to ride the ups and downs of 737 Max return
Southwest’s follow-on commitment for 100 Max 7 aircraft and Ryanair’s imminent start of services with a higher density version of the Max 8 are further positives for Boeing’s flagship programme after the restart of commercial flights last December, but further order cancellations and the back-up power control issuing impacting some of the fleet show challenges remain
WestJet extends flight suspensions to sun destinations
WestJet has extended its temporary suspension of flights to southern destinations until 4 June as the Canadian air travel industry continues struggling with the coronavirus crisis.
Boeing loses 800 firm orders in first year of pandemic
Boeing’s total aircraft orders tumbled by roughly 800 jets in the last 12 months, bringing an abrupt end to the company’s remarkable sales successes in the preceding decade.
British Airways chief says UK travel-restart framework ‘lacks ambition’
The UK government’s proposed framework to reopen international travel markets has its merits but fails to properly take into account the improving health situation, according to British Airways chief executive Sean Doyle.
Boeing delivers only two KC-46A tankers in Q1 2021
Despite orders for dozens more KC-46A Pegasus in-flight refuelling tankers in recent months, Boeing only delivered two examples of the aircraft in the first quarter of 2021.
Air Canada begins to offer refunds for non-refundable fares
Air Canada says it will begin to offer refunds to customers whose flights were cancelled or who did not use their non-refundable tickets due to the coronavirus crisis that has been dragging on for more than a year.
Boeing nets 40 new aircraft orders in March despite more Max cancellations
Boeing marked a second straight month of positive order activity in March, with orders for new jets offsetting an ongoing stream of 737 Max cancellations.
United launches ‘sustainable’ fuel investment scheme
United Airlines has launched “Eco-Skies Alliance”, a programme through which it will allow customers and corporate partners to invest in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
Canada takes equity stake in Air Canada in C$5.9bn bailout deal
The government of Canada will take an equity stake in legacy carrier Air Canada after the company struck a deal for financial support as the coronavirus crisis continues to tear into the airline’s business.
US Navy tests radar-guided missile decoy on P-8A Poseidon
The US Navy has successfully completed an airworthiness test of a radio frequency countermeasure pod prototype on a Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
Porter again delays restart, to 21 June
Canada’s Porter Airlines has once again delayed its restart for another month as travel restrictions in that country continue to disrupt the industry.
Andrew Levy’s low-cost Avelo Airlines hits the ground running
Avelo Airlines, industry veteran Andrew Levy’s new carrier, made a splash last week when it landed in the US low-cost-carrier pool, offering $19 fares and flights from the Los Angeles area to nearly a dozen cities in the western third of the country.
A320 close call at San Francisco highlighted NOTAM overload: ICAO forum
Overflight of a heavily-occupied taxiway by an Airbus A320 at San Francisco served as an illustration of the serious risks of overloading pilots with NOTAMs, an ICAO forum has heard, as the organisation initiates efforts to reduce unnecessary NOTAM information.
Missing 777 rivet heads prompt FAA call for inspections
The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed that airlines be required to address a Boeing 777 rivet issue that raises concerns about potential pressure loss.
US carriers remove some 737 Max from service due to ‘power control unit’ issue
American, Southwest and United have pulled some of their Boeing 737 Max jets from revenue service due to an issue related to the type’s “back-up power control unit”.
Slip in Airbus order total illustrates 12-month impact of crisis
Analysis of Airbus backlog data over the year since the onset of the air transport crisis shows the airframer’s overall orders fell during the period, an extraordinary contrast to its strong annual performances over the previous decade.
Boeing urges 737 Max electric fix prior to further flight
Boeing is urging 16 operators of 737 Max jets to address an electrical system concern before further operating the aircraft.
Southwest recalls all flight attendants
Southwest Airlines has recalled all of the flight attendants who had taken long-term voluntary leave as the airline prepares for a domestic recovery which is progressing faster than expected.
ALPA calls on US government to help boost pilot diversity
Pilot union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) has called on the US government to help diversify the pilot ranks by making it easier for under-represented groups such as women and minorities to have access flight training.
Cheap jet lease rates mean opportunity for bold US start-ups
The Covid-19 era has also created opportunity by deflating aircraft lease rates to levels at which new players can acquire jets at fire-sale prices, say aerospace analysts.
New carrier Connect Airlines to launch US-Canada flights in October
A new regional carrier called Connect Airlines plans to begin passenger flights in October between the USA and Toronto’s Billy Bishop City airport.
How Jude Bricker transformed Sun Country on journey to IPO
In four short years, former Allegiant president Jude Bricker has taken the Midwest niche carrier from near-death to a stock market IPO, aided by a well-timed venture into cargo markets with Amazon
US start-up Avelo Airlines launches ticket sales
A new US passenger carrier start-up called Avelo Airlines is now selling tickets and plans to start revenue flights on 28 April.
Wider economic recovery drives up jet-fuel costs for ailing airlines
Rising jet-fuel prices will make it harder for airlines to reach cash-positive positions in the coming months, according to industry body IATA.
F-15EX ‘Eagle II’ ready for test and evaluation phase
The US Air Force has formally named its F-15EX fighter the “Eagle II”, as it prepares to launch test and evaluation work on the new platform at Eglin AFB in Florida.
Hypersonic ARRW test failure a setback, USAF says
A launch sequence problem resulted in the failure of a planned first test firing of a Lockheed Martin-built hypersonic missile, the US Air Force (USAF) says.
Airline coronavirus recovery tracker: April 2021 update
Our regular examination of the latest global data for several key airline market indicators, including international and domestic travel restrictions, traffic and capacity in passenger and cargo markets, in-service and stored fleets, jet fuel costs, and share price trends for the world’s largest groups.
Canada’s PAL Airlines to expand to 11 cities this summer
Canadian regional carrier PAL Airlines will expand its network this summer to include 11 new destinations in eastern Canada.
President Biden talks of supersonic travel within 10 years
President Joe Biden has raised the prospect that supersonic civil aircraft might be crossing the world’s skies within the next 10 years.
NTSB again calls for cockpit video recorders
The US National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) long-running quest to have video cameras installed in aircraft cockpits continues, with the agency again recommending that regulators require the recorders.
New IATA chief insists all Covid-related travel measures should be temporary
New IATA director general Willie Walsh has called for all restrictions and constraints on international air travel to be removed as quickly as possible, as the trade body’s latest traffic data showed the continued catastrophic impact of the Covid-19 crisis on the airline industry.
UPS takes options to purchase 150 eVTOLs from Vermont manufacturer Beta
Express package delivery company UPS has acquired options to buy up to 150 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Vermont-based developer Beta Technologies, with deliveries planned to start in 2024.
HAECO's Vector Light seats get FAA certification; Q4 delivery targeted
HAECO Americas’ interiors unit, HAECO Cabin Solutions, has clinched the US Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) certification for its Vector Light narrowbody seat.
FAA requires inspections of PW4000 low-pressure turbines
The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring airlines to inspect and replace “air sealing ring” assemblies within Pratt & Whitney PW4000 low-pressure turbine [LPT] cases.
Wisk Aero sues Archer, alleging stolen eVTOL trade secrets
Urban air mobility developer Wisk Aero has sued competitor Archer Aviation in US federal court, alleging that Archer stole trade secrets, infringed on patents and copied Wisk’s aircraft design.
Allegiant to open crew base in Austin
Allegiant Air will invest $75 million in opening a base in Austin, Texas as it explores more ways to benefit from the rebound in leisure travel following the year-long coronavirus crisis.
Unmanned Valkyrie releases Altius-600 drone in sixth test flight
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions’ XQ-58A Valkyrie performed its sixth flight late last month, culminating with the “loyal wingman” releasing an air-launched effect vehicle from its internal weapons bay for the first time.
United will train 5,000 pilots by 2030, half to be women or minorities
United Airlines says that it will train 5,000 new pilots in the next ten years through its “Aviate” pilot recruiting programme, with at least half of those to be women and people of colour.
How do you design and build throw-away aircraft?
The US Air Force wants UAVs that it can afford to lose – but that presents industry with numerous challenges to overcome.
FAA orders US carriers to inspect Embraer ERJ landing gears
The US Federal Aviation Administration has followed Brazil’s lead in requiring US carriers to address a landing gear issue affecting more than 300 US-registered Embraer 135 and ERJ145 regional jets.
Delta cancels more than 100 flights due to staff shortage
Delta Air Lines has cancelled more than 100 flights over the busy Easter holiday weekend due to staffing issues.
Major US airlines’ booking websites apparently crash
Several major US airlines appear to be experiencing technical problems that are preventing customers from booking flights on their websites.
US domestic air travel to normalise by 2022: report
A new report by consulting firm Oliver Wyman says that US domestic air travel is expected to make a full recovery by early next year.
Pilots back global campaign to cut excessive NOTAM burden
Cockpit crew representatives are backing efforts to overhaul of the NOTAM system this year, claiming that the repository of aeronautical information has become cluttered, inefficient and burdensome.
Industry welcomes new CDC guidance on vaccinated travellers
The US travel industry has welcomed a new public health determination that fully vaccinated people may travel domestically without required Covid-19 testing or mandatory quarantines.
Norse Atlantic fires back against US lawmakers, alleging ‘false’ claims
Start-up airline Norse Atlantic Airways has blasted US lawmakers for making “false” claims about its labour practices, insisting it will conform to US air transport treaties.
Spirit accuses JetBlue and American of coordinating beyond their alliance
Spirit Airlines is accusing JetBlue Airways and American Airlines of coordinating flights and routes outside of the scope of their new Northeast alliance.
FAA to require airlines replace fuel system units on 737 Max
The US Federal Aviation Administration has proposed requiring airlines to replace fuel system processors on Boeing 737 Max jets, citing problems with fuel shut-off systems.
US opposition builds to Norse Atlantic’s planned transatlantic flights
Top US lawmakers are gearing up to battle a potential application by start-up Norse Atlantic Airways to begin transatlantic flights to the USA.
Air Canada and Transat call off merger
The European Commission (EC) has put the brakes on Air Canada’s planned acquisition of Transat AT, the parent of Air Transat, leading the companies to call off the deal completely.
US Navy and Royal Australian Air Force order 11 Boeing P-8A Poseidons
The US Navy and Royal Australian Air Force have ordered 11 more examples of the Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft for $1.6 billion.
United to resume hiring pilots, starting with 300 candidates
United Airlines plans to hire hundreds of pilots this year as the airline begins what it sees as a sustainable recovery after a coronavirus-plagued year.
WestJet lays off another 415 pilots
Canada’s WestJet has laid off another 415 pilots as the coronavirus crisis continues to tear through that country’s aviation sector.
Frontier shares begin trading on Nasdaq
Frontier Airlines’ stock began trading at $19 per share on the Nasdaq exchange on 1 April, raising $266 million in net proceeds for the Denver-based airline.
Airbus A330 MRTT cleared to pursue Canadian tanker deal
Canada has notified Airbus Defence & Space that its A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) has been qualified to bid in a process to replace its air force fleet of A310s. A rival offer of the Boeing KC-46 Pegasus was rejected by Ottawa.
Anduril acquires air-launched effects maker Area-I
Anduril Industries, a venture-capital backed start-up, has acquired another start-up, air-launched effects maker Area-I.
Willie Walsh takes over as IATA chief
Describing his passion for the airline industry, Walsh notes that IATA’s work has never been more “critical… than during the Covid-19 crisis”.
FAA certificates Boeing 737 Max 8-200 variant
The Federal Aviation Administration has certificated the Boeing 737 Max 8-200 – a specially-configured high-density variant of the 737 Max 8 destined for low-cost carrier Ryanair.
Bird strike blamed for fatal crash of Royal Canadian Air Force ‘Snowbird 11’ aircraft
The Royal Canadian Air Force’s Directorate of Flight Safety has concluded that the ingestion of a small bird into a Canadair CT-114 Tutor jet’s engine caused the aircraft to crash in May 2020.
Alaska Airlines joins Oneworld alliance
Alaska Airlines officially became the 14th member of the Oneworld aviation alliance on 31 March.
US airports would receive $25bn under Biden infrastructure plan
US airports would receive $25 billion in funding under the infrastructure investment plan rolled out by President Joe Biden on 31 March.
Delta to stop blocking middle seats in May
Delta Air Lines, the last US carrier to continue blocking middle seats amid the pandemic, will rescind that policy in the coming weeks.
Aviation industry calls for collaboration on ’vaccine passports’, concerns remain
The aviation sector is calling for close collaboration in development of so-called “vaccine passports”, hoping such documents could promote re-opening of international travel following the yearlong coronavirus crisis.
Cape Air orders another 10 Tecnam P2012s
US commuter airline Cape Air has firmed orders for 10 additional Tecnam P2012 Travellers, part of its ongoing plan to replace Cessna 402Cs with the new Italian aircraft.
FAA to require A220 wing-to-body fairing inspections
US regulators are following Canada’s lead by proposing that Airbus A220 operators be required to inspect the type for potential cracks in wing-to-body fairing components.
US airlines commit to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050
US airlines have committed to spearhead initiatives in order to help the industry get to net-zero carbon emissions by the middle of this century.
Boeing finalises sale of 23 737 Max to Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines has firmed an order for 23 Boeing 737 Max 9s, securing the jets after having in December announced an intention to acquire them.
US Army aims to speed up FLRAA’s major subsystem and weapons development
The US Army has granted Bell and a Sikorsky-Boeing team contracts to speed up the time it ought to take to complete preliminary design reviews for major subsystems and conceptual weapon systems on their Future Long Range Assault Aircraft proposals.
Gulfstream vows commitment to G280, countering ‘rumours’ that production could end soon
Gulfstream is seeking to reassure the business-aircraft sector that its commitment to the G280 super-midsize business jet remains unflinching, despite “rumours” of the contrary.
American to reactivate ‘most’ aircraft in Q2 amid rising demand
American Airlines will operate the majority of its fleet in the second quarter, in response to stronger-than-anticipated demand for domestic and short-haul air travel.
Sikorsky tests UH-60 Black Hawk flying autonomously under pilot supervision
Sikorsky and DARPA recently conducted an autonomous flight of a UH-60 Black Hawk under on-board piloted supervision.
United expands flights to Latin America in May
United Airlines says that during the month of May it will exceed its pre-pandemic schedule to Latin America, 15 months after cutting service to the region as passenger demand plummeted amid the first wave of the coronavirus.
Wisk to begin eVTOL programme in New Zealand this year
Urban air mobility developer Wisk will later this year kick off a trial programme in New Zealand that is eventually intended to involve passenger flights on the company’s autonomous electric aircraft, Cora.
Sikorsky to integrate, qualify new GE turboshafts on UH-60M Black Hawks in FY2022
The US Army plans to grant Sikorsky a sole-source contract to integrate and qualify the Improved Turbine Engine on its UH-60M Black Hawk utility helicopter, with work starting in fiscal year 2022.
Southwest orders 100 737 Max 7s, takes 155 options
Southwest Airlines has ordered 100 Boeing 737 Max 7s, a deal that cements the manufacturer as Southwest’s long-term aircraft partner and throws enormous support behind the Max programme.
From record profits to Covid-19 devastation, de Juniac saw it all as IATA chief
In 2016, Alexandre de Juniac brought his French government and airline industry experience to a role that required diplomacy and a steady hand on the tiller. From 2020 onwards, unprecedented crisis-management skills were the order of the day.
Navy contract helps MQ-4C escape production pause
The Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton unmanned air system has avoided a production freeze owing to a US Navy (USN) contract for one example.
JetBlue appears to secure Heathrow slots from 2 August
JetBlue Airways appears to have secured 270 slots at London’s Heathrow airport for the summer travel season, as it launches low-cost transatlantic narrowbody service from the US East Coast.
F-35B completes sea trials on Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour
The F-35 Joint Program Office has delivered a flight clearance recommendation to the Italian navy for the safe operation of the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II on the aircraft carrier ITS Cavour.
FAA to stop requiring repeated PW1500G compressor inspections
Airlines may no longer need to repeatedly inspect low-pressure compressor (LPC) rotors in Pratt & Whitney PW1500G turbofans, which power Airbus A220s.
Boeing 787 deliveries restart after five-month pause
After a five-month hiatus, Boeing has resumed 787 deliveries, handing a 787-9 to United Airlines on 26 March.
Bell opens advanced manufacturing centre aimed at winning US Army’s Future Vertical Lift
Bell believes new digital engineering and manufacturing technologies will allow it to cut the cost and lead times on rotorcraft parts by double-digit percentages. It also thinks those bold claims are likely to attract doubts.
Supply chain competition to heat up as China develops domestic aerospace industry
China is undergoing an aerospace evolution, developing a homegrown industry anchored by Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac) and supported by a strengthening domestic supply chain.
United to add 26 domestic routes, increase international flying
United Airlines is adding more domestic point-to-point routes and upping its international flying as US travellers continue to book flights in greater numbers following the year-long global health crisis.
Airports body predicts travel surge but warns of $94bn revenue loss in 2021
Airports industry body ACI World expects a “surge” in travel demand during the second half of 2021, but that global passenger numbers will still be down some 47.5% for the full year compared with pre-Covid levels.
American prepays CARES Act loan with $10bn financing proceeds
American Airlines has closed a previously announced $10 billion financing backed by its customer loyalty programme and used a portion of the proceeds to prepay its CARES Act loan to the US Treasury.
ALPA sets out policy priorities in white paper
US pilot union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) is calling on the industry to revisit numerous labour, safety, subsidy and collective bargaining issues that for the past year have taken a back seat to the coronavirus pandemic.
Bell sees V-280 and V-247 having ‘synergy’ with US Navy FVL Maritime Strike
Bell believes its work on the V-280 Valor tiltrotor for the US Army and the unmanned V-247 Vigilant tiltrotor concept for the US Marine Corps ought to have “synergy” with the US Navy’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) Maritime Strike programme.
Bell sees its APT cargo UAV as being attritable in combat
Bell believes it will be able to design and build its Autonomous Pod Transport cheap enough for the unmanned air vehicle to be considered attritable.
FAA to require inspections of Leap-1A high-pressure turbine cases
The Federal Aviation Administration is set to require inspections of high-pressure turbines (HPTs) in some CFM International Leap-1A turbofans, which power Airbus A320neo-family jets.
WestJet hopes to restore full Canadian network by late June
WestJet intends to restore flights to several cities in eastern Canada in late June, a move meaning the company would again be flying to all the cities in Canada that it served before the pandemic.
JetBlue explores possible E190 sale-and-leasebacks
JetBlue Airways has been looking at potentially selling and leasing back 30 owned Embraer 190s as it seeks to transition the aircraft out of its fleet in favour of the Airbus A220, Cirium understands.
USA has 70 efforts to develop hypersonic technologies, totalling nearly $15bn: GAO
The USA has funded 70 efforts to develop hypersonic missiles, and related technologies, between fiscal years 2015 and 2024.
Can supersonic hopefuls deliver as commercial interest booms?
The handful of companies in the space spent the last year partnering with major aerospace suppliers (including engine makers), lining up buyers, hiring known aerospace executives and, in the case of Boom Supersonic, rolling out a demonstrator jet.
NTSB urges tighter oversight of some passenger-carrying general aviation flights
Following several deadly accidents in recent years, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is urging the Federal Aviation Administration to tighten oversight of certain passenger flights conducted under general aviation rules.
