Lockheed confident in F-35 prospects despite effort to reduce US purchases
The airframer’s chief executive says international demand remains strong following recent battlefield successes, and there is a strong likelihood US lawmakers will plus up the Pentagon’s stealth fighter acquisition in the upcoming defence budget.
RTX cuts profit forecast due to tariffs despite sales surge
US aerospace giant RTX has lowered its 2025 profit forecast by 3% due to tariff impacts, despite securing orders for more than 1,000 PW1000G engines last quarter.
Lockheed takes ‘significant losses’ on classified aeronautics programme
Although Lockheed executives remain bullish on the secretive programme’s long-term prospects, the effort generated $950 million in losses during the recent second quarter, tied to setbacks with design, integration, testing and performance of the classified air vehicle.
CFM accelerates Leap deliveries as P&W’s turbofan output dips
GE delivered 410 Leap turbofans in Q2 2025, up 38% year-on-year, while competitor RTX’s GTF shipments fell 4%.
Delta-Aeromexico partnership falls in Trump administration’s crosshairs amid slot dispute
The US government is threatening broad restrictions on Mexican carriers operating within the USA, and specifically says it plans to reverse approval of the joint venture deal between Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico.
Alaska’s system-wide ground stop ‘not a cybersecurity event’
As it works to recover from a system-wide groundstop that halted flight activity for about 3h over the weekend, Alaska Airlines insists that the operational shutdown was not related to a breach of cybersecurity.
Safran acquires Collins actuator business after regulatory approval
French aerospace firm Safran has completed the acquisition of Collins Aerospace’s flight control and actuator business while simultaneously divesting its North American actuator operations to Woodward, following regulatory approval from US authorities.
Southwest sets date for introduction of assigned seating
Starting later this month, Southwest Airlines passengers will be allowed to purchase assigned seats on flights departing on or after 27 January.
USAF completes IVEWS operational assessment with F-16
The US Air Force (USAF) has completed an operational assessment of Northrop Grumman’s ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) with the Lockheed Martin F-16.
Boeing fraud case dismissal hearing set for 28 August
A Texas federal judge will determine whether to dismiss criminal fraud charges against Boeing related to 737 Max certification, despite opposition from crash victims’ relatives.
FAA probes near-miss between SkyWest E175 and B-52 bomber
The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into a potential near-miss incident involving a SkyWest Airlines Embraer 175 and a US Air Force Boeing B-52 bomber at Minot International Airport.
RC-135 Rivet Joint platform remains best in the business, L3Harris official says
Decades after first entering service, the Boeing RC-135V/W Rivet Joint remains a critical electronic intelligence-gathering capability for the USA, the UK and their allies, L3Harris Technologies says.
L3Harris aims to sow ‘pure chaos’ with swarmable long-range munitions
Starting with the kinetic strike Red Wolf and electronic warfare Green Wolf, L3Harris aims to offer the USA and allies a long-range munition that can deliver a variety of battlefield effects at low cost and high volume.
United sees 737 Max delivery progress, 787 programme still lags
US carrier reports Max deliveries running ‘slightly ahead of schedule’ but engine constraints affect widebody programme
Bahrain’s Gulf Air agrees to purchase 12 Boeing 787s
Bahrain carrier signs preliminary agreement for widebody jets, with options for six more, one day after country’s crown prince met with US president
United Airlines chief Kirby claims permanent edge over competitors except Delta
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby believes only his carrier and Delta Air Lines are properly positioned in the US market, predicting competitors will soon need to abandon unprofitable routes.
Pentagon moves to dramatically expand access to small drones for combat units
The US military is moving to dramatically expand access to small drones for its frontline combat units in a new initiative unveiled by the US Defense Secretary Pete Hesgeth.
GE Aerospace raises profit forecasts despite tariff concerns
Engine manufacturer reports $2 billion quarterly profit and record $175 billion backlog as commercial aviation demand surges.
BAE hails APKWS rocket test success from uncrewed quadcopter
BAE Systems has demonstrated the performance of its APKWS laser-guided rocket during test firings involving a version of subsidiary Malloy Aeronautics’ T-150 quadcopter uncrewed air system (UAS).
Mammoth expects 777-300ERMF freighter schedule to benefit from -200LRMF flight tests
US conversion specialist Mammoth Freighters believes approval for its Boeing 777-200LRMF cargo modification will enable it to speed up the development of its larger 777-300ERMF variant.
Delta settles lawsuit alleging misuse of pandemic-era payroll support
Delta Air Lines has agreed to pay $8.1 million to settle a lawsuit mounted by the US Department of Justice alleging misuse of federal pandemic-relief funds.
GTF grounding rate holds steady as Pratt & Whitney introduces durability fixes
The number of commercial aircraft grounded due to Pratt & Whitney’s (P&W) recall of PW1000-series turbofans appears to have declined slightly in recent months, but the share of grounded jets remains roughly unchanged at close to 30% of the fleet.
Newark disruptions cost United $218 million in Q2
United Airlines has revealed that travel disruptions at Newark Liberty International airport earlier this year cost the carrier $218 million in the second quarter, with continued impact expected in Q3 results.
Canada exploring purchase of autonomous fighter platform to complement F-35As
Documents obtained by The Canadian Press indicate the Department of National Defence is mulling the possible acquisition of uncrewed combat jets that could fly alongside the Royal Canadian Air Force’s planned fleet of Lockheed Martin F-35As.
GlobalX purchases first A320, pursues new ‘hybrid ownership model’
Global Crossing Airlines, which operates as charter carrier GlobalX, has executed its first-ever aircraft purchase and signed leases for an additional four Airbus jets.
Porter to sell and lease-back four E195-E2s
Canadian carrier Porter Airlines has secured a sale-leaseback deal involving four Embraer E195-E2 jets to be delivered later this year.
Pilot forgot to configure thrust-reverser switches before Falcon 10 overrun
US investigators probing a landing overrun which badly damaged a Falcon 10 have determined that the thrust-reversers did not deploy, because the jet was wrongly configured during approach.
Leonardo seeks partner to offer TH-73 for US Army flight school contract
While Leonardo does not plan to bid for the Flight School Next programme as a prime contractor, the rotorcraft manufacturer wants to partner with a training services provider to offer its TH-73 light-single as the US Army’s next training helicopter.
Avelo planning closure of Burbank base, total withdrawal from West Coast
Low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines is planning to withdraw from the West Coast of the USA by year-end, a sweeping strategic change that signals significant financial difficulty for the start-up.
US Air Force test pilots ferried Super Tucanos with ‘zero formal flight training’
Test pilots with the US Air Force had to transfer the Embraer turboprops to the service’s test pilot school in California, despite having never trained on the lightweight single-engined type.
Air Canada deepens ties with future Star Alliance carrier ITA Airways
ITA Airways has formed a codeshare partnership with Air Canada as part of the Italian carrier’s entry into Star Alliance.
Alaska Air Group receives DOT approval for transfer of Hawaiian’s operating certificate
The DOT approved on 14 July the de facto transfer of “certificates and other economic authorities” held by Hawaiian to Alaska Air Group, the parent company of Alaska Airlines and wholly owned regional subsidiary Horizon Air.
Final NTSB report on Alaska 737 Max 9 blow-out faults Boeing’s worker training and FAA oversight
The US National Transportation Board (NSTB) has released its final report on the January 2024 in-flight depressurisation of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 – an incident that proved tectonic for Boeing’s commercial business and prompted sweeping changes in the airframer’s C-suite and on its factory floors.
FedEx signs to take first converted ATR 72-600 freighter by year-end
US express shipment specialist FedEx has signed for the first ATR 72-600 to undergo conversion to a large-door freighter.
Trump’s trade posture toward Brazil raises potential threat to Embraer’s regional jet business in USA
Heightened trade tensions between the USA and Brazil – and the prospect of swingeing tariffs – could pose problems for Embraer and US airlines that hold orders for the Brazilian airframer’s regional jets.
Canada begins air base upgrades as A330 tanker fleet expands
The C$850 project at CFB Trenton includes resurfacing the existing runway, aprons and taxiways, plus construction of a new hangar, fuel depot, and ramp extension as Ottawa prepares to field a new fleet of Airbus multi-role tanker transports.
DARPA ends Liberty Lifter programme as agency scuttles plans to build heavy-lift flying boat
The secretive Pentagon research agency says the Liberty Lifter programme has proven the viability of building an amphibian transport aircraft capable of operating in heavy sea states, but that it will not pursue assembly of a demonstrator.
IAI to develop 767 aerial firefighting platform through commercial partnership
Israel Aerospace Industries is to lead development of a firefighting aircraft based on the Boeing 767, capable of dispersing some 40t of retardant.
Canada’s Flair Airlines permanently installs Maciej Wilk as CEO
A year into leading Canadian low-cost carrier Flair Airlines on an interim basis, Maciej Wilk has been confirmed as the airline’s permanent chief executive.
Airline industry veteran Bryan Bedford confirmed as new head of US civil aviation regulator
Bedford is charged with oversight of the USA’s civil aviation regulator at a time of intense focus on aviation safety.
Retired US Air Force generals call on lawmakers to fully fund E-7 acquisition
The group of 16 high-ranking officers, which includes several former air force chiefs of staff, says a robust air battle management and threat-tracking platform is essential to projecting air power and winning conflicts.
Bell advances to build phase of secretive DARPA high-speed VTOL contest
Bell’s concept for an advanced tiltrotor-jet hybrid aircraft will move into the build stage of the US Defense Advanced Research Project Agency’s Speed and Runway Independent Technologies X-plane contest, after defeating rival finalist Aurora Flight Sciences.
All seven A350Fs removed from launch customer Air Lease’s backlog
All seven Airbus A350 freighters on the backlog of US lessor Air Lease have been removed, according to the airframer’s latest order data.
F-15E and F-16C fighters control four XQ-58s in US Air Force tests
The successful use of legacy fourth-generation fighters to control the uncrewed jets is a significant advancement for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft concept, which has largely focused on pairing the autonomous platforms with fifth-generation and emerging sixth-generation designs.
Boeing’s deliveries bumped higher in June as Max momentum builds
Boeing logged more positive momentum in June, accelerating 737 deliveries to a pace not achieved since late 2023 and padding its backlog with orders for another 116 aircraft.
MQ-9s deployed in search and rescue effort following deadly Texas floods
State-level authorities in Texas say MQ-9A remotely piloted aircraft, operated by the Air National Guard, have been deployed to heavily flooded areas to support search and rescue operations.
Skydive Twin Otter crashed while attempting return to airport
US investigators have disclosed that the pilot of a De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, which crashed during a skydiving flight in Tennessee, had been attempting to return to the airport after apparent loss of engine power on take-off.
NTSB report suggests ATC miscommunication led to close call at Reagan National
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released more information about a close call at Ronald Reagan Washington National airport that happened in March – two months after a deadly midair collision in the same airspace.
FAA to expand landing gear inspections to 737s and 757s
The Federal Aviation Administration plans to require US airlines to inspect some 2,200 Boeing 737s and 757s due to a risk that improper maintenance could have jeopardised the integrity of the jets’ main landing gears.
Mammoth on pace to deliver 777-300ERMF conversion to AviaAM in 2025
Mammoth Freighters is tracking to complete its first passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion of a Boeing 777-300ER before year-end.
USA lifts prohibition of GE Aerospace and CFM engines to China
GE Aerospace confirms the US government has lifted restrictions that, for several weeks, had prohibited it from shipping commercial aircraft turbofans to customers in China.
SAS long-haul expected to flourish with transatlantic venture integration
Air France-KLM Group believes Scandinavian carrier SAS will be able to expand its long-haul network by capitalising on the group’s three-hub strategy and transatlantic joint venture.
US Congress passes bill providing FAA $12.5bn for air traffic control overhaul
The US Congress has passed a sweeping spending and tax bill that will provide $12.5 billion to the Federal Aviation Administration to fund air traffic control (ATC) modernisation, one of President Donald Trump’s central policy priorities.
US Navy adds more long-range sub-killer kits for P-8A
The US Navy has entered a contract that will enhance the ability of its Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to strike submarines at longer ranges.
Missing wing flap part from Delta 737-900ER found in driveway
The US FAA is investigating an incident involving a Delta Air Lines Boeing 737-900ER, which lost part of its wing flap during a flight on 1 July.
Boeing to acquire Spirit AeroSystems’ Belfast site as alternative buyer fails to emerge
Boeing will acquire Spirit AeroSystems’ Belfast site – save for Airbus A220 work – as part of its planned acquisition of the aerostructures supplier.
China joins aerospace firms in urging no new US trade barriers
China, along with many US and global aviation firms, in recent weeks raised alarm with the US Department of Commerce, warning that new aerospace-specific import taxes would negatively disrupt a global industry.
Start-up airline Argentum plans operations with Silver Airways’ former assets
Weeks after Florida-based regional carrier Silver Airways ceased operations across its network in the Southeast USA and the Caribbean, an effort is underway to resume scheduled passenger service under the new Argentum Airways brand.
Boeing defence chief Steve Parker wins permanent appointment
Boeing has confirmed the permanent appointment of Steve Parker as chief executive of its defence unit, more than nine months after he assumed the post from predecessor Ted Colbert on an interim basis.
Cirrus to expand production site in Grand Forks
US aircraft manufacturer Cirrus has committed $13 million to expand its production site in North Dakota, a move the company says will enable it to better support production of its SR Series single-piston and SF50 Vision Jet.
Fitch upgrades Boeing’s outlook on operational and financial improvements
Fitch Ratings has signalled increased confidence in Boeing’s financial and operational stability by boosting its long-term credit outlook for the aircraft manufacturer.
RTX to sell Collins’ sensing and controls business to TransDigm
In addition to selling Collins Aerospace’s controls business to TransDigm, RTX is working to overcome a US lawsuit threatening its plan to sell a separate flight-control business to Safran.
Delta inspects over 100 aircraft after severe hailstorm derails Atlanta operations
US carrier Delta Air Lines has inspected over 100 aircraft after severe storms, including hail, disrupted operations at its Atlanta hub.
Trump warns of steeper tariffs on Canadian products, aircraft still exempt for now
President Donald Trump’s decision to halt trade talks with Canada raises fresh uncertainty about the potential for the USA to impose new or steeper tariffs on aerospace products and raw materials.
‘Brightest explosion that I’ve ever seen’: inside US effort to develop a bomb for Iran’s nuclear sites
The US military’s top officer says development of the bunker-busting 13,600kg (30,000lb) GBU-57 bomb began 15 years ago and involved significant use of supercomputers.
US Air Force seeks to retire all A-10 Warthogs by 2027
Congress must approve the plan, which would see the US Air Force accelerate retirement of its entire A-10 fleet by two years.
Trump Administration ‘all in’ on F-47 but plans minimal funding for F/A-XX naval fighter
A senior Pentagon official tells FlightGlobal the Trump Administration will focus resources on developing a sixth-generation fighter on the US Air Force’s F-47 programme, with the US Navy’s new carrier-based equivalent in a holding pattern.
UK government examining competitive implications of Boeing-Spirit deal
UK competition regulators are reviewing potential concerns posed by Boeing’s planned acquisition of supplier Spirit AeroSystems but have yet to launch a formal investigation.
Pentagon seeks to cancel E-7A procurement instead opting for more E-2Ds
Congress must provide final approval to the plan, which would see the US Air Force forego the development of a new Boeing E-7A airborne early warning and control fleet, instead investing in new space-based capabilities and the existing Northrop Grumman E-2D platform.
Spirit Airlines calls United-JetBlue partnership ‘unfair’, urges DOT review
Spirit Airlines has come out swinging against United Airlines’ and JetBlue Airways’ planned “Blue Sky” commercial partnership, describing the deal as anticompetitive and detrimental to smaller airlines.
Bell delivers first MV-75 virtual prototype to US Army
The advanced simulator of the army’s forthcoming tiltrotor will be used to inform early design improvements and help the service to start developing tactics and procedures for the new aircraft.
NTSB lays out Boeing ‘deficiencies’ it says contributed to 737 Max door-plug failure
A raft of issues at Boeing, including those related to inexperienced workers and documentation failures, led to manufacturing oversights that resulted in the January 2024 in-flight failure of a 737 Max 9’s mid-exit door (MED) plug.
Details emerge about Boeing’s pending redesign of 737 door plugs
Boeing and supplier Spirit AeroSystems have completed engineering work for a design change to 737 Max mid-cabin door plugs, part of the airframer’s efforts to prevent a repeat of the January 2024 in-flight door-plug failure.
US Air Force releases footage of B-2s preparing for Iran strike mission
Video shot through a low-light night vision lens shows multiple Northrop Grumman B-2 stealth bombers taxiing and launching under cover of darkness, and later returning to land during daytime conditions.
ALPA and US airlines spar over cockpit-barrier deadline
The largest US pilot union is sparing with the airline industry’s top trade group over compliance with a Federal Aviation Administration rule requiring passenger aircraft be equipped with secondary cockpit barriers.
Canada’s competition bureau urges elimination of airline foreign ownership caps
Canadian restrictions on foreign ownership of domestic airlines, and the country’s model for funding air transportation infrastructure, are among factors limiting new carriers from bringing more competition to Canada’s skies.
Boeing defence chief optimistic about prospects for US E-7 acquisition
Despite indications the Pentagon has soured on purchasing new E-7A airborne early warning and control jets from Boeing, the head of the airframer’s defence unit remains sanguine on the aircraft’s prospects.
US strikes Iranian nuclear facilities with largest B-2 mission in history
After more than a week of uncertainty about whether Washington would directly join Israel’s military operation against Iran, US President Donald Trump carried out air strikes against Tehran’s nuclear development sites on the evening of 21 June US time.
Former air mobility chief calls out USAF vulnerability amid Middle East build-up
Retired US General Mike Minihan, who oversaw the US Air Force’s (USAF’s) mobility fleet, says the current flow of combat assets into the Middle East is providing “false comfort that tomorrow’s war will look like today’s rehearsal”.
Lockheed expands C-130J wing lifespan by 40% with new test campaign
The airframer says a new testing programme funded by the USA and Canada determined the C-130J’s wing structure will remain viable and safe for nearly twice the original specification design life.
Northrop Grumman unveils Beacon testbed for autonomous aircraft development
Based on the Scaled Composites Model 437 Vanguard low-cost jet, the Beacon platform will be offered to third-party partners for testing and refinement of autonomous aviation solutions.
Attorneys call on federal judge not to dismiss Boeing fraud trial
Attorneys for relatives of 737 Max crash victims are urging a US federal judge to reject a request from the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to dismiss the criminal fraud trial against Boeing.
Lockheed lends technical support to Electra’s development of ‘blown-lift’ EL9
Lockheed Martin is tightening its relationship with start-up hybrid-electric aircraft developer Electra after having helped fund the firm in 2022.
NTSB recommends ‘urgent’ steps to address 737 Max engine smoke concern
US safety investigators have warned over a safety issue with a vibration-reduction feature on the CFM International Leap-1B turbofans that power the Boeing 737 Max which can cause smoke to enter the cockpit.
Embraer sees ‘continuous’ demand for E175s in USA
Embraer Commercial Aviation chief Arjan Meijer is confident the manufacturer will continue to see strong demand for its E175 jets in the USA, after today disclosing an order for 60 of the type from regional operator SkyWest.
Boeing Global Services chief plots ‘conservative’ growth following ‘bad chapter’
The chief executive of Boeing Global Services (BGS) leaves no doubt he thinks Boeing’s previous services strategy was flawed, saying the division has returned to prioritising its core priority of supporting the global fleet.
No barriers: Could Mach cut-off silence the supersonic boom?
Revival of supersonic air travel is a subject which has largely been relegated to ‘silly season’ status in the two decades since withdrawal of the BAC-Aerospatiale Concorde fleet.
Augmented reality coming to the cockpit as Red 6 moves toward operational fielding
US start-up Red 6 has matured its augmented reality flight training technology and is preparing to field the system for both fixed-wing jets and rotorcraft in Europe and North America.
Daher joins Safran, Collins and Ascendance to define hybrid-electric propulsion architecture
Daher and three other aerospace firms have agreed to collaborate on a project to define an optimal hybrid-electric propulsion system for a 6-10 seat aircraft.
Radia sees expanded use cases for gargantuan WindRunner freighter
The Colorado company that plans to build the largest-ever fixed-wing aircraft originally envisioned WindRunner as purpose-built for moving wind turbine blades on its own behalf, with no plans to sell the jet to cargo operators.
US Navy MH-60Rs get serious about counter-UAS mission
The Sikorsky MH-60R naval warfare helicopter has emerged as a key platform for defending US Navy warships from small, cheap unmanned air systems.
US Army promises ‘broad’ request for Flight School Next helicopter trainer bids
The US Army expects to issue a request for proposals (RFP) related to its Flight School Next helicopter trainer programme “as soon as this fall”, according to the service’s aviation chief.
CAE looks to rebuild ‘aerodrome of democracy’ in Canada
As Ottawa looks to re-arm and re-assert its sovereignty, Canadian defence giant CAE says one of the most effective contributions the country can make is to re-occupy its historic role as a training hub for allied aviators.
FAA chief still sees no need for immediate action in response to 787 crash
The Federal Aviation Administration has still not learned anything that would prompt the agency to take regulatory action in response to the deadly crash five days ago of an Air India Boeing 787-8.
USA and four nations roll out air taxi certification ‘roadmap’
The Federal Aviation Administration and agencies in four partner countries have rolled out a “roadmap” for the type certification of advanced air mobility aircraft.
De Havilland eyes restarting Sherpa and Dash 8 production
De Havilland Canada arrives at Paris with decisions about its future unsettled, including the question of whether to reboot production of one of its venerable twin-turboprops.
Near Earth and Honeywell complete autonomous flight of AW139
Near Earth Autonomy, supported by Honeywell, is competing for the US Marine Corps’ Aerial Logistics Connector effort to explore options for uncrewed rotorcraft to support ship-to-shore logistics.
Bombardier and Leonardo exploring Global 6500 maritime surveillance aircraft
Bombardier and Leonardo will collaborate on a Maritime Multi-Mission Aircraft based on the Global 6500 business jet.
CAE raises aviation workforce projections as retirements loom
Aviation training provider CAE has increased by 8% the number of pilots, cabin crew and mechanics it expects the aviation industry will need over the next decade, citing an expected boom in demand for air travel.
Lockheed Martin edges closer to operational approval for F-35’s TR-3 update
Lockheed Martin is close to completing its certification activity for the F-35’s delayed Technical Refresh 3 (TR-3) update, while it eyes further sales demand for the type in Europe.
Saab and General Atomics team up to offer uncrewed airborne early warning solution
The announcement of an airborne early warning capability based on the General Atomics MQ-9B UAV comes as support within the Pentagon is waning for a new crewed aircraft to replace the ageing Boeing E-3 Sentry fleet.
Fresh uncertainty aside, Boeing has made quality and safety strides: senator
While the cause of the 12 June crash of an Air India Boeing 787-8 remains unclear, a leading Republican senator says everything he sees out of Boeing suggests the company is succeeding in turning itself around.
Southwest installing Honeywell’s runway safety software across 737 fleet
Southwest Airlines is rolling out Honeywell’s SmartRunway and SmartLanding software across its entire Boeing 737 fleet, boosting the carrier’s runway safety systems.
Kratos to build new family of small ‘strike’ engines in Oklahoma
As part a partnership with GE Aerospace, defence manufacturer Kratos is building a new production facility in Bristow, Oklahoma to assemble a new family of small turbofan engines intended to power long-range munitions and uncrewed aircraft.
Boeing arrives at Paris showing recovery progress, 787 crash uncertainty looms
The Air India 787-8 crash could pose another long-term crisis for Boeing. Or not. But barring the crash, Boeing had been making seemingly significant progress in pulling itself from a multi-year slump.
With better understanding of ‘complexities’, Eve revises air taxi market projections
Start-up aircraft developer Eve has released a new study projecting a robust market opportunity for the emerging electric air taxi industry, though the estimates are less optimistic than some previous predictions.
Boeing trims some widebody jets from 20-year forecast, demand to remain robust
Boeing has shaved 250 widebody aircraft from its latest 20-year commercial aircraft demand forecast, describing the tweak as a minor adjustment reflecting factors including a slower-than-expected post-pandemic recovery.
Boeing CEO and commercial chief to sit out Paris show following crash
Boeing plans for its commercial aircraft division to have a lower-key presence at next week’s Paris air show in the wake of the deadly 12 June crash of an Air India 787.
Pentagon acquisitions process ‘inadequate’ for modern threats
An independent review by the US Government Accountability Office describes the Pentagon’s acquisition process as “inadequate” in adapting to evolving threats and integrating emerging innovation, while taking too long to deliver new equipment.
With hefty state aid, JetZero picks Greensboro for production site
Blended-wing-body aircraft developer JetZero confirms it has chosen Greensboro, North Carolina as the location of its planned aircraft production site and has secured state aid for the site that could reach $1.5 billion.
JetBlue A220 leaves runway after landing in Boston
An Airbus A220-300 operated by JetBlue Airways left the runway after landing at Boston Logan International airport, stopping in a grassy area after turning off the runway.
French seat maker Expliseat looks up-market with fresh financing raise
French aircraft seat maker Expliseat has raised €36 million ($42 million) in new financing that it intends to put toward developing new seats and toward expanding its global footprint, including in North America.
After dire warnings, aerospace firms navigate tariff tightrope but downplay some impacts
For a brief period in April when US President Donald Trump’s tariffs came crashing down on the world, executives up and down the aerospace supply chain warned the proposed duties threatened to reshape the industry as we know it.
Steady 737 production rates guiding Boeing’s commercial strategy under Pope
Stephanie Pope, Boeing Commercial Airplanes chief, is gauging the airframer’s progress based on its ability to safely repeat a monthly production rate of 38 737 Max jets.
Backlogs already hold 40% of forecast 20-year single-aisle demand: Airbus
Airbus has hiked its outlook for new aircraft deliveries over the next 20 years to 43,420, up by about 1,000 from last year’s prediction.
Climb inside Lockheed Martin’s latest F-16 flight simulator
The resolution and real world physics incorporated into Lockheed Martin’s latest Block 70/72 F-16 flight simulator offer the ability to train on highly delicate tasks like in-flight refuelling under day and night conditions, vastly improving on earlier generations of simulator technology.
Garmin unveils G5000 Prime avionics suite for transport-category aircraft
Kansas firm Garmin on 11 June revealed the G5000 Prime integrated flight deck for Part 25 aircraft, representing its next-generation avionics suite for transport-category jets.
Blended-wing-body aircraft to be produced in North Carolina, all eyes on JetZero
North Carolina has apparently been chosen as the location for a blended-wing-body aircraft manufacturing site, and though the company behind the plan has yet to be named, reports indicate the firm is California-based JetZero.
US regional carrier Silver Airways ceases operations across network
The Hollywood, Florida-based carrier disclosed the decision in a 11 June social media post, which urged customers not to seek refunds at the airport.
US defence secretary casts further doubt on E-7 acquisition plan
In recent congressional testimony, US secretary of defense Pete Hegseth gave the clearest indication yet that his Pentagon has soured on the battlefield value of Boeing’s E-7 Wedgetail airborne early warning and control platform.
GE Aerospace and Pratt take divergent paths toward developing engines for next narrowbody jets
Airbus and Boeing might still be a decade from finalising their requirements, but CFM International and competitor Pratt & Whitney (P&W) have little time to waste. They face a decision with immense ramifications: dive into developing a radically new powerplant, or invest to update and improve the conventional turbofan architecture.
Embraer names Northrop Grumman as potential partner for US development of KC-390
Northrop Grumman has emerged as a prospective new partner for Embraer as the Brazilian airframer advances the promotion of its C/KC-390 tactical transport/tanker to the US military.
MD Helicopters joins crowded field to supply new trainer to US Army
The company plans to offer its MD 530F light-single as an option to replace the army’s Airbus Helicopters UH-72A Lakotas.
Audit projects Canadian F-35 acquisition costs will nearly double
The total cost of acquiring 88 Lockheed Martin F-35As will rise to more than C$33 billion ($24 billion), according to a Canadian government auditor, nearly double the originally estimated C$19 billion.
Boeing booked orders for 303 jets in May, its highest monthly tally in two years
Boeing padded its backlog in May with orders for 303 aircraft, while also accelerating 737 production to 38 jets monthly, the fastest pace permitted by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Twin Otter on skydiving flight wrecked during aborted take-off in Tennessee
Preliminary information indicates that two of the 20 passengers on a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter were seriously injured during a runway excursion in Tennessee.
Boeing plans for modernised Apache 50 years after first flight
It’s been nearly 50 years since the Hughes YAH-64 prototype lifted off for the first time in September 1975 and Boeing is now looking at how to keep the iconic attack helicopter flying for another half-century.
GE nears completion of more GE9X dust-ingestion tests amid broader industry durability push
GE Aerospace expects it will soon complete a second round of GE9X dust-ingestion tests, insisting the efforts will help ensure the massive powerplant does not suffer the dust-related durability issues that have affected earlier engine models.
Canada will increase defence spending to reach NATO target this year
Ottawa will report $45.8 billion (C$62.7 billion) in defence spending to the alliance this year, with the increase coming from a mixture of new expenditures and defence-related spending happening elsewhere in the government.
P&W reaches new GTF compensation deal with Spirit Airlines
Pratt & Whitney has reached another agreement to provide financially struggling US discount carrier Spirit Airlines with additional compensation for jets grounded due to problems with PW1100G geared turbofans (GTFs).
Boeing defence chief: E-7A, satellites complement each other
Boeing sees a role for both airborne early warning and control aircraft and satellites in the management of future air battles.
Airbus chief supports counter-tariffs on Boeing but not US aerospace subsystems
Airbus is seeking to reduce its potential exposure to US tariffs on aircraft, but chief executive Guillaume Faury is opposed to a sweeping European Union retaliation.
Sikorsky bets on advanced technology as UH-60 twilight looms
The pioneering rotorcraft manufacturer is looking to new product lines ahead of a looming decline in sales for the marquee UH-60 Black Hawk utility helicopter, as the US Army considers what is expected to be its final multi-year contract for the venerable type.
Wrongly-fitted vane actuator parts found after American 737 engine fire
US investigators found a number of flaws in the right-hand engine of a Boeing 737-800 which caught fire at Denver after a diversionary landing, having exhibited vibration during flight.
Executive order instructs US FAA to repeal ‘outdated’ overland supersonic ban
President Donald Trump has ordered the US FAA to take steps to repeal a long-standing prohibition on overland supersonic flight within six months.
NATO nations endorse plan to boost defence-related spending to 5% of GDP
NATO has set out a planned near-term increase to defence spending by its member nations, as the alliance continues to evolve in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Boeing continues MQ-25 work, gears up for MQ-28A missile shot
Boeing continues to advance two of its major unmanned aircraft programmes, the MQ-25 Stingray air-to-air refueller and the MQ-28A Ghost Bat loyal wingman.
Breaking barriers: engine start-up Ursa Major powers US return to hypersonic flight
One of the Colorado manufacturer’s Hadley rocket engines propelled the Stratolaunch Talon-A test vehicle to speeds beyond Mach 5 in May, the first US-made aircraft to hit that mark since the 1960s.
B-2’s ship killer credentials boosted with lightweight version of QUICKSINK
The US Air Force has expanded the range of low-cost QUICKSINK anti-ship munitions, with the inclusion of a new 226kg (500lb) variant.
Boeing defence chief: F-15EX payload is key enabler
Boeing’s defence chief sees a pivotal long-term role for the new F-15EX to carry heavy weapons loadouts, with the type seeing strong international interest.
Raytheon increases AIM-9X production rate to 2,500 missiles annually
A $1.1 billion contract from the US Navy will support additional production of the heat-seeking missile at a time when Western military leaders warn that stocks of precision munitions are dangerously insufficient for protracted high-intensity conflicts.
Beta showcases CX300 capabilities with passenger-carrying flight into JFK
Beta Technologies has claimed an historic milestone, with its Alia CX300 all-electric aircraft becoming the first passenger-carrying advanced air mobility vehicle to land at John F Kennedy International airport in New York.
Boeing upbeat on VC-25B, unfazed by Qatari 747-8I news
The head of Boeing’s defence business feels that the VC-25B presidential aircraft programme is on the right track and is unfazed by a US government decision to obtain a used Qatari 747-8I Boeing Business Jet (BBJ).
Honeywell: software change could offer 25% boost to F-35 power, cooling
The aviation systems manufacturer is positioning itself as the low-risk choice for a much-anticipated Pentagon programme to upgrade the onboard power generation and cooling capacity of the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter.
Low-cost airline model ‘works very well’ outside of USA: IATA chief
While some prominent industry voices have written off the low-cost carrier model as fundamentally broken, IATA director general Willie Walsh maintains that discounters are proving the model’s effectiveness – outside of the USA.
Southwest’s first transpacific airline partner revealed as China Airlines
Southwest Airlines plans to launch an interline partnership with Taiwanese carrier China Airlines, confirming speculation that it would seek to collaborate with a transpacific operator with a strong presence on the West Coast of the USA.
Spirit Airlines could cancel or postpone Airbus orders due to tariffs on EU products
US discounter Spirit Airlines could cancel some Airbus A320neo-family aircraft orders as a result of the ongoing trade war between the European Union and USA.
Boeing defence chief sees F-47 as a 'transformative' programme
The head of Boeing Defense, Space & Security is highly confident about the company’s ability to execute on the F-47 programme, a competition victory that reflects many years of investment and work.
US Coast Guard trials uncrewed aircraft for search and rescue
During exercises in the Caribbean, a ship-launched AV Puma UAV was paired with an uncrewed surface vessel to search for ships and persons in the water during day and night.
JetBlue chief Geraghty pours cold water on United tie-up talk
JetBlue Airways chief executive Joanna Geraghty slapped down suggestions that her carrier’s new commercial collaboration with United Airlines is the first step toward a full tie-up, maintaining that JetBlue is “absolutely” not interested in another merger attempt.
Powdered-metal component issue affects 757 and C-17 PW2000 turbofans: FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration will require inspections of Pratt & Whitney (P&W) PW2000s powering Boeing 757s and C-17s, saying disks in the engines are subject to defects similar to those affecting PW1000G geared turbofans (GTFs).
Judge holds off from approving DOJ request to dismiss prosecution of Boeing
A federal judge has decided against immediately approving a request by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to dismiss its criminal case against Boeing.
Trump plan for gifted Qatari 747 confounds aviation observers and ethics experts
Aerospace analysts say converting a questionably sourced aircraft for presidential transport does not make financial sense and poses a myriad of security concerns, while ethics lawyers say the move violates rules against American officials receiving gifts from abroad.
FedEx 757 forced to land gear-up after broken wire impeded alternate undercarriage extension
US investigators have determined that a broken wire prevented activation of the alternate undercarriage extension system on a FedEx Boeing 757-200 freighter, forcing the crew to conduct a gear-up landing.
United and JetBlue launch ‘Blue Sky’ collaboration to cover airport slots and loyalty programmes
After several weeks or rumours that a new airline partnership has been gathering momentum, US carriers United Airlines and JetBlue Airways have revealed plans for a “unique consumer collaboration” that will start this fall.
Sunwing’s swan song: WestJet completes integration of leisure carrier’s 737s
Canadian leisure carrier Sunwing Airlines is operating its final revenue flights, as the last of its 18 Boeing 737s will be integrated into WestJet Group’s fleet on 29 May.
US Air Force conducts first-ever tri-bomber formation flight with fighter escort
The demonstration sortie over the Hyundai Air and Sea Show in Miami Florida saw all three of the USA’s dedicated bomber aircraft, plus multiple fighter types, flying in close formation for the first time ever.
Canada reveals designations and livery for new RCAF trainer fleet
At the 2025 CANSEC defence and security conference in Ottawa, the head of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) revealed the names, designations and liveries of the service’s fleet of 71 new trainer aircraft, including single- and multi-engined turboprops and helicopters.
General Atomics developing Ghost strike and reconnaissance platform for US Air Force
UAV manufacturer General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has received a $99 million contract from the Air Force Research Laboratory to support development of a new reconnaissance and strike platform called Ghost, which will feature hybrid-electric propulsion and ducted fans for lift.
US lessor Azorra to pick up nearly 50 E-Jets as DAE divests around 75 aircraft
US lessor Azorra is to acquire a batch of 49 Embraer E-Jet aircraft from the portfolio of Middle Eastern leasing company Dubai Aerospace Enterprise.
Oregon HA-420 overrun probe analyses landing-distance calculations
US investigators are examining landing distance calculations as they try to determine why a Honda Aircraft HA-420 overran a wet Oregon runway before coming to rest submerged in water.
US government licence loosens sanctions on Syrian Arab Airlines
US authorities have eased sanctions against flag-carrier Syrian Arab Airlines, following the changes in the Syrian government in the aftermath of Bashar Al-Assad’s fall from power.
Toyota secures supplier and operating rights with $250m Joby investment
Air taxi developer Joby Aviation has raised $250 million through a stock deal with Toyota Motor Corporation and reached a new agreement that could see the automotive giant eventually operate Joby’s aircraft.
Boeing makes design tweaks to address 777-9 thrust-link problem
The thrust-link issue that forced Boeing to ground its 777-9 test fleet last year was caused by a narrow airflow gap that led to vibration and failure, according to newly available information.
US Army will accept some risk on MV-75 development to accelerate production
The service’s head of procurement for the tiltrotor says the service will make some programmatic adjustments intended to get the new MV-75 into service a year or two sooner.
Hermeus completes first flight of subsonic Quarterhorse Mk 1
The subsonic test vehicle is the first flight-capable aircraft in the Quarterhorse line, with which Hermeus eventually hopes to break the Mach 5 hypersonic barrier.
Sweden buys used Global 6500s for VIP transport fleet refresh
Sweden is to refresh its head of state aircraft fleet, with the NATO nation to replace a pair of Gulfstream business jets with Bombardier Global 6500s.
United’s Newark operations stabilise amid FAA-mandated air traffic reduction
Operations at United Airline’s massive hub at Newark Liberty International airport have stabilised following a sharp reduction in daily air traffic mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration.
NTSB finds ‘near zero’ oil in engine on Delta Boeing 717 following emergency landing
Investigators found no oil in the right-side Rolls-Royce BR715-C1 engine of a Delta Air Lines Boeing 717 following an emergency landing in February that involved a “tremendous” amount of cabin smoke.
Frontier A321neo lost nose wheel, suffered engine damage due to April hard landing
An Airbus A321neo operated by Frontier Airlines suffered a left-side engine failure caused by ingesting fragments of its nose wheel following an attempted landing in San Juan.
Lockheed outlines ‘turnkey’ bid for US Army helicopter training contract
The defence giant says it will offer a “turnkey” package to meet all of the army’s needs for a new trainer aircraft, including instruction services and sustainment, although a specific rotorcraft has not yet been identified.
Fatal Cessna Citation business jet crash ignites residential fires in San Diego
A Cessna Citation 550 business jet crashed on approach to a small airport in San Diego on 22 May, killing multiple passengers and setting houses ablaze.
CommuteAir to keep flying 50-seat regional jets for United through 2028
US regional carrier CommuteAir has extended its contract with United Airlines to continue flying 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145s through 2028.
Boeing still mending safety culture and cutting travelled work from production lines
Broad efforts to improve Boeing’s safety culture are showing signs of taking hold, according to an internal report from the airframer’s chief aerospace safety officer.
FAA imposes flight cuts at Newark after spate of disruptions
The US Federal Aviation Administration has capped the number of flights at New Jersey’s Newark Liberty international airport, following a series of well-publicised ATC outages and delays.
Bombardier hails maiden flight success of first production Global 8000
Bombardier has performed the maiden sortie of its ultra-long-range Global 8000 business jet, with the first test aircraft completing the milestone on 16 May from Toronto Pearson International airport.
GA-ASI posts YFQ-42A image as ground tests continue
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) has released a photo of its YFQ-42A, a production representative test vehicle under the US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft programme.
Airbus still bullish on unmanned UH-72 despite US Army replacement effort
Airbus is competing an unmanned version of its UH-72B light utility helicopter, dubbed the MQ-72, for a US Marine Corps logistics programme designed to support ship-to-shore cargo deliveries.
Bell pitches 505 as simplified trainer solution for US Army
The US Army is seeking a single-engined alternative to its Airbus Helicopters UH-72A basic trainer, with Bell pitching a 505-based package the company says will generate cost savings and better outcomes for trainees.
Raytheon in jammer production contract for USN, RAAF
Raytheon has secured a $580 million production contract for additional Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band (NGJ-MB) pods.
WestJet deepens SkyTeam ties with enhanced Air France-KLM partnership
Canadian carrier WestJet, fresh off deepening ties with Delta Air Lines and Korean Air, is moving to strengthen its codeshare partnership with Air France-KLM.
US Army completes first flight with GE Aerospace T901 turboshaft
The army’s head of aviation procurement confirmed the recent milestone, amid ongoing uncertainty around the future of the new GE Aerospace turboshaft engine.
DOJ considering dismissing fraud charges against Boeing: victims’ attorneys
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is considering dropping criminal fraud charges against Boeing for the company’s alleged misconduct in relation to certifying the 737 Max.
Etihad Airways poised to open new US gateway next year
Middle Eastern carrier Etihad Airways is opening a new transatlantic destination next year with services to the US city of Charlotte.
Volga-Dnepr denounces Canadian effort to seize An-124 as ‘hijacking’
Russian outsize freight specialist Volga-Dnepr Airlines has described the Canadian measures to seize one of its Antonov An-124s as a “pirate hijacking”.
US Army seeks to ‘pure fleet’ helicopter inventory by retiring older models
The US Army confirms that it hopes to retire all older D-model Boeing AH-64 attack and Sikorsky UH-60L/V utility helicopters as it seeks to downsize the rotary-wing fleet and operate more efficiently.
Global Airlines A380 arrives at New York JFK after initial commercial service from UK
UK start-up Global Airlines’ first transatlantic commercial Airbus A380 flight has arrived at New York JFK following a service from Glasgow.
USAF reveals inventory target for new F-47 fighter
The service aims to field at least 185 of the sixth-generation Boeing fighters, with each aircraft having a combat radius of over 1,000nm.
Robinson offers R66 to US Army as new trainer
With the announcement that the US Army is seeking a no-frills, single-engined trainer to replace the Airbus UH-72 Lakota, American airframer Robinson sees a major opportunity to expand into the defence business.
Turkish cargo carrier ULS prepares to receive first A330 converted for ATSG
Turkish cargo carrier ULS Airlines is to receive an Airbus A330-300 converted freighter newly rolled-out by Dresden-based modification specialist EFW.
Lawmakers propose bill to scrap USA’s overland supersonic flight prohibition
Lawmakers in the USA have embarked again on an effort eliminate a federal rule that has banned supersonic air travel over land since 1973.
United Airlines may no longer be Max 10 launch customer, eyes first deliveries in 2027 or 2028
United does not expect to receive its first 737 Max 10 until 2027 or 2028 as certification uncertainty abounds.
US Army designates next-generation Bell tiltrotor as MV-75
The army’s number two officer confirms the designation for the developmental Bell rotorcraft while speaking at the service’s annual aviation summit in Nashville, Tennessee.
Qatar Airways places massive order for Boeing widebody jets: ‘That’s a record’, says Trump
With US president Donald Trump watching, the chief executives of Boeing and Qatar Airways signed a deal under which the Doha-based airline will purchase as many as 210 Boeing 787 and 777X widebody jets.
Watch: Thales shows off all-phase autopilot for H125 helicopter
After certificating a full-mission autopilot for the Airbus Helicopters AS350 light-single helicopter, French avionics manufacturer Thales leased one of the rotorcraft and converted it into a test asset for developing new military mission systems.
‘Daunting but not impossible’: JetZero endeavors to deliver world’s first ‘all-wing’ commercial jet
JetZero executives say the start-up is ready for the challenges that come with building a large, radically different-looking composite airframe at scale to compete against the world’s leading aerospace manufacturers.
Dust-ingestion tests ahead as CFM RISE blade-durability analysis progresses
GE Aerospace is preparing to conduct dust-ingestion tests as part of endurance evaluation of turbine blades being developed through CFM International’s innovative powerplant programme RISE.
Boeing begins Lot 2 deliveries of F-15EX as production ramps up
Boeing has now delivered nine of the so-called 4.5-generation fighters to the US Air Force, which is initially fielding the modernised twin-engined fighter to the Oregon Air National Guard.
Boeing ramped up widebody deliveries in April as 737 deliveries slowed
Boeing’s 737 Max delivery pace slowed in April but the company made up the difference by delivering more widebody jets than in previous months this year.
United reveals new business-class suites with ‘Elevated’ 787 cabin refresh
United Airlines plans to equip incoming Boeing 787-9s with new business-class suites and updated premium-economy seats as part of a cabin refresh the carrier markets as its “Elevated” aircraft interior.
US FAA orders MD-80 manual revision to include jammed-elevator check
US regulators have ordered a change to Boeing MD-80 flight manuals to include a check that elevators are not jammed in the trailing-edge down position.
Long life ahead for CV-22, but no plans for FLRAA in USAF special operations
In a wide ranging interview with FlightGlobal, the three-star general in charge of US Air Force special operations outlined his long-term plans for the USA’s air commandos, legacy platforms like the CV-22 Osprey and MQ-9 Reaper, and the next-generation tiltrotor Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft.
With ‘A to Z’ development experience, Wisk’s new CEO takes on certification challenge
The new chief executive of air taxi start-up Wisk Aero thinks he has the aircraft-development experience needed to lead the company’s transition, now underway, into the critical phase of flight testing and certification.
Details about recent ATC failures emerge as DOT works to limit Newark flights
The US Department of Transportation is preparing to reduce the number of permitted flights at Newark, as secretary Sean Duffy reveals why ATC systems failed in recent days
Newark ATC briefly loses ability to track jets again
Another technology outage at New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International airport temporarily left air traffic controllers operating blind on the morning of 9 May.
Air Canada’s first A321XLR and 787-10 deliveries delayed into 2026
Air Canada disclosed on 9 May that deliveries of its first Airbus A321XLRs and Boeing 787-10s have been delayed into next year.
SkyTeam partners poised to acquire 25% of Canada's WestJet
Delta Air Lines and Korean Air plan to acquire 25% of Canadian discount carrier WestJet, and Delta intends to sell 2.5% share to Air France-KLM.
Upgrades to Little Bird fleet, FLRAA fielding remain on track for SOCOM
The US Army’s premier aviation force is moving forward with its ongoing effort to upgrade the fleet of Boeing A/MH-6 Little Bird helicopters and field a the next-generation tiltrotor under development by Bell.
UK MAA gives certification nod to General Atomics’ Protector RG1
The UK Military Aviation Authority (MAA) has issued a military type certificate for the Royal Air Force’s General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Protector RG1, as the service continues to grow its fleet of the remotely piloted air system.
Air Canada’s traffic sinks as US and transatlantic operations suffer
Air Canada reports a broad contraction of air traffic in the first quarter, particularly to US vacation hotspots and destinations across the Atlantic Ocean.
US transportation chief rolls out ATC plan, swath of aviation leaders pledge support
An “all-brand-new” air traffic control system might be coming to the USA.
US Army special operations to field T901 engine on MH-60 fleet
As the US Army begins the process of integrating the latest GE Aerospace T901 turboshaft into the fleet of more than 2,300 Sikorsky UH-60 helicopters, the service’s special operations aviators say they plan to also field the new engine for their small fleet of MH-60 Black Hawks.
How Sarah Talucci is taking the next generation of women aviators under her wing
Sarah Talucci, founder and president of 315 Aviation – a brokerage that specialises in high-end aircraft transactions – is working to expose more young women to potential career pathways in the aerospace industry.
China Airlines ordered 14 777X in March
Boeing previously logged the orders to its March order activity, available on its website, but attributed them to an undisclosed buyer.
Belgium gets approval for its remaining F-35s to be assembled in Italy
Lockheed Martin has reached an agreement with Belgium covering the NATO nation’s remaining purchase of F-35A combat aircraft, with Brussels’ remaining examples to undergo final assembly in Europe.
Ukrainian justice minister seeks transfer of seized Volga-Dnepr An-124
Ukrainian justice minister Olha Stefanishyna believes Canadian efforts to confiscate a Volga-Dnepr Antonov An-124-150 will result in the heavy transport aircraft being transferred to Ukraine.
US Navy launches solid-fuel ramjet from target drone
The US Navy has successfully launched a Solid Fuel Integral Rocket Ramjet from an unmanned target drone.
United CEO calls for slot controls at Newark as flight disruptions continue
Amid another day of travel chaos at Newark Liberty International airport, the chief executive of United Airlines is urging the Federal Aviation Administration to cap the number of flights at the delay-afflicted airport.
DARPA to fund assembly of only one High Speed Vertical Take-Off and Landing design
Bell and Aurora Flight Sciences have taken radically different approaches in a Pentagon X-plane contest to develop an experimental aircraft capable of taking off and landing vertically, while also achieving fixed-wing jet speeds in horizontal flight.
L3Harris closing in on first export sales of Sky Warden armed turboprop
The military systems integrator says it is in discussions with three potential export customers for its armed variant of the Air Tractor AT-802, with serious interest in Africa, the Middle East and Oceania.
AeroVironment debuts swarmable one-way attack UAS with 200nm range
AeroVironment, which recently rebranded as AV after acquiring fellow defence manufacturer Blue Halo, has launched a new small autonomous aircraft called Red Dragon that the company says has been tested in a combat environment against real world electronic warfare countermeasures.
PhantomStrike radar performs well in first airborne test
Raytheon’s new PhantomStrike active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar has performed successfully in its first airborne test.
Cirrus introduces SR-series G7+, first single prop with auto-land
Cirrus Aircraft has rolled out an update to its SR-series G7 aircraft that comes equipped with an emergency auto-land system – a first for a single-piston aircraft – and other new cockpit features.
WestJet suspends nine US routes amid dip in transborder demand
Citing a “downward shift in transborder travel demand”, the Calgary-based carrier said on 6 May that it is focusing on domestic and transatlantic flying during the upcoming summer travel season.
P&W machinists go on strike, company works ‘contingency plans’ to keep operating
Pratt & Whitney (P&W) machinists in Connecticut are on strike after the voting down a proposed employment deal, further disrupting the engine maker’s operation as it works to increase production and address a massive engine recall.
Troubled T-7A takes step forward with successful sled ejection test
The troubled Boeing T-7A advanced jet trainer programme has taken a step forward with a successful test of its new escape system.
Absent balance weights spur directive to check 747 elevators
Boeing 747 operators are being instructed to carry out prompt elevator checks after a 747-8 freighter was flown without balance weights after maintenance.
Wright Electric poised for electric engine ground tests
Electric aircraft propulsion specialist Wright Electric is preparing to begin ground testing with the M2500 electric engine it is developing to power commercial aircraft, having completed construction of a test stand that will accommodate the trials.
Newark disruptions accumulate amid ATC woes, reports of total equipment failure last week
Last week, controllers temporarily lost ability to ”see, hear or talk to” pilots flying jets to and from Newark, according to NATCA.
JetBlue sheds innovation arm JetBlue Ventures to focus on ‘core airline operations’
US carrier JetBlue Airways has shed innovation arm JetBlue Ventures to aviation investment group Sky Leasing in a bid to focus more on “core airline operations”.
Stratolaunch completes hypersonic flight with reusable Talon-A
The California company Stratolaunch is pioneering the development of a reusable flight vehicle capable of reaching speeds beyond Mach 5.
Washington prepares to close bidding on auction of retired KC-10 tankers
Ten of the Boeing refuellers have been listed for sale on a US government auction website, each with a minimum price of $500,000.
Revenue-seeking Spirit Airlines partners with Contour to target essential air service markets
US low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines is partnering with regional carrier Contour Airlines in a deal intended to connect essential air service (EAS) markets with popular leisure destinations.
Trump seeks to cut government-subsidised ‘essential air service’ flying to rural USA
The Trump administration’s “skinny” 2026 budget request includes $308 million of proposed cuts to the Essential Air Service (EAS) programme that subsidises regional airline flights to rural communities throughout the USA.
Obscure start-up wants to compete for the US Navy’s new trainer jet
Little-known aircraft designer Stavatti, which has never built a physical aircraft, plans to compete for the US Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System contract against heavyweights including Lockheed Martin, Textron and Boeing.
Heart chief Forslund defends decision to take flight from Sweden
Anders Forslund, chief executive of Heart Aerospace, has defended the hybrid-electric aircraft developer’s decision to close its Swedish operation and relocate to the USA, arguing it will benefit the business in the long run.
Qatar Airways identified as launch customer for Mammoth 777-200LR converted freighter
Qatar Airways’ cargo division is to be the launch customer for the Boeing 777-200LR freighter conversion programme established by US-based Mammoth Freighters.
Pentagon sending decommissioned F-16s to Ukraine for spare parts
The US Air Force says it is providing non-operational Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters to Ukraine to support the sustainment of Kyiv’s fleet of used jets provided by European allies.
US Army targets ‘obsolete’ aircraft for cuts, including AH-64D and MQ-1C
In a sweeping overhaul of the service’s force structure, senior Pentagon officials have directed the US Army to end procurement of “obsolete” and “outdated” aircraft platforms, including the Boeing AH-64D and General Atomics MQ-1C Gray Eagle uncrewed aerial vehicle.
Spirit AeroSystems receives cash lifeline from Airbus as coffers dry up
Airbus has agreed to provide Spirit AeroSystems with $200 million in credit to help the financially embattled US supplier continue operating until Airbus completes a plan to acquire parts of Spirit later this year.
Bombardier’s production still disrupted by one engine maker’s delays
Bombardier is struggling to get engines on time from one of its three engine suppliers – the company has not said which.
Business jet deals stalled amid tariff uncertainty but momentum has rebounded: Bombardier
Some sales campaigns slowed in March as tariffs took hold, but Bombardier’s CEO says activity is “back to normal”.
USAF begins ground testing Anduril uncrewed fighter prototype
Anduril’s YFQ-44A prototype has started ground trials ahead of the type’s first flight scheduled for later this year.
Bombardier considers acquiring Belfast production site amid Spirit AeroSystems break up
Bombardier is open to the prospect of acquiring work packages from Spirit AeroSystems in Belfast focused on the production of aerostructures for its business jets, although the Canadian airframer would also be content with Boeing taking on that activity and becoming one of its suppliers.
Airbus explores mitigation options to minimise tariff impact on supply chain and airline customers
Airbus is examining various options to address the fluid US-driven tariff situation, both within its own supply chain and through negotiations with affected airline customers.
Trump throws momentum behind plan to overhaul US air traffic control systems
Trump say updated ATC systems could prevent accidents like the 29 January midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National airports.
AerCap CEO not interested in 737 and A320 replacements
If Airbus and Boeing were to pitch him on next-generation narrowbodies, AerCap CEO Aengus Kelly would reply, ”Don’t let the door hit you on the way out”.
Aurora completes wind-tunnel testing on experimental fan-in-wing design
Boeing subsidiary Aurora Flight Sciences is a finalist in an X-plane competition organised by the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to deliver a vertical-take-off-and-landing-capable aircraft that can also fly at fixed-wing-jet speeds.
F-15EXs to replace retiring A-10s at Michigan fighter squadron
The White House says the 107th Fighter Squadron of the Michigan Air National Guard will be the next station to receive Boeing’s F-15EX multi-role fighter, replacing its current Fairchild Republic A-10s.
AerCap CEO envisions tariffs driving up used jet prices
Tariffs could also lead countries to remove caps preventing importation of older leased aircraft, so airlines need not acquire as many tariff-saddled new jets
JetBlue’s GTF issues easing as fewer Airbus aircraft grounded than anticipated
US carrier JetBlue Airways reports an improving engine-availability situation as it has fewer aircraft grounded for Pratt & Whitney turbofan overhauls than previously expected.
Sweden loses out to LA after Heart transplants operation
Hybrid-electric developer Heart Aerospace is to abandon its long-term Swedish home and relocate operations to Los Angeles to “accelerate development” of its 30-passenger ES-30 aircraft.
FAA moves to prevent widespread summer flight disruptions
Airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration are gearing up for another busy summer of air travel, with a goal of heading off the types of widespread disruptions that have been common during recent summers.
American brings lawsuit while JetBlue keeps shopping for domestic partner
American Airlines has brought a lawsuit against former Northeast Alliance partner JetBlue Airways as talks to revive that alliance have fallen apart.
Autonomy firm Near Earth to develop pilotless capability for US Army UH-60Ls
As part of the US Army’s push to expand automated flight within its existing aviation fleet, autonomy developer Near Earth will retrofit a Sikorsky UH-60L for pilotless operations.
Piasecki acquires Kargo uncrewed logistics platform from Kaman
The quadrotor Kargo is a medium-lift autonomous vertical take-off and landing vehicle intended to provide aerial logistics support to defence and commercial customers.
US House proposes $15bn in funding to modernise air traffic control
Republican lawmakers have proposed a plan to provide the Federal Aviation Administration with $15 billion to fund air traffic control (ATC) modernisation, a move coming several weeks after US transportation chief Sean Duffy committed to such an effort.
Azorra expects to place some EgyptAir A220s for flights despite part-out of others
US lessor Azorra is reviewing plans for its remaining ex-EgyptAir Airbus A220s, after some of the jets were allocated to serve as a source of spares for the type.
US Navy Super Hornet falls from deck of aircraft carrier engaged in Red Sea combat
The Boeing F/A-18E strike fighter was being towed across the flight deck of the USS Harry S Truman when the crew lost control and the jet tumbled overboard.
Bell nears completion of final Osprey for US Air Force
Rotorcraft manufacturer Bell expects to deliver the final CV-22 variant Osprey tiltrotor for the US Air Force in the coming months, as the company moves toward winding down production on the pioneering aircraft.
Fatal Phenom 300 crash pilot did not de-ice wing before Utah take-off
US investigators believe the pilot of an Embraer Phenom 300 did not de-ice the aircraft before it stalled, rolled to the left, and crashed immediately after lift-off from Provo municipal airport in Utah.
Airbus agrees to take over Spirit A350 and A220 work for reduced compensation
Airbus has reached a definitive agreement to take over several work packages from US-based Spirit AeroSystems, including A350 fuselage and A220 wing production.
Boom picks Colorado site to test in-development Symphony engine
Boom says it expects to begin testing the Symphony engine’s core this year at the Colorado site.
Spirit Airlines regains US stock listing following financial restructuring
US discounter Spirit Airlines has been approved by the NYSE American for listing several months after filing for bankruptcy protection and being removed from the New York Stock Exchange.
NATO calls for ‘quantum leap’ in defence spending, as annual outlay tops $1.3 trillion
NATO nations boosted their collective spending on defence by around $120 billion in 2024 from the previous year, with the 32-strong alliance’s total outlay estimated to have been around $1.3 trillion.
Textron hints at unmanned capability for FLRAA tiltrotor
Textron, parent company of rotorcraft manufacturer Bell, says the US Army wants to incorporate unmanned flight capability into the next-generation tiltrotor known as the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft.
Boeing to halt X-66 development, narrow focus to thin wings for future jets
Boeing this summer will stop developing NASA’s X-66 truss-braced-wing demonstrator aircraft and shift its focus specifically toward developing thin-wing technology that had been central to X-66’s design.
Bell secures Osprey production though 2027, spanning gap until FLRAA work begins
The rotorcraft manufacturer confirms that an order from the US Navy for five CMV-22 Osprey variants will sustain the Amarillo, Texas production line through 2027, around the same time work on the US Army’s next-generation tiltrotor is expected to ramp-up at the site.
Textron CEO expects minimal impact from tariffs
Textron is the latest US company with a large aerospace manufacturing operation to say the Trump administration’s new tariffs are unlikely to create significant financial trouble this year.
United places ‘conditional’ order for up to 200 of JetZero’s blended-wing airliners
United Airlines has become the latest major US carrier to throw support behind start-up JetZero’s development of a blended-wing-body airliner.
Alaska and Southwest join other US carriers in reporting softer demand
Southwest now expects full-year passenger capacity to increase by roughly 1%, presenting a picture of growth at a near-standstill amid broad economic uncertainty.
Canada’s Cargojet hauls record Q1 revenue amid ‘decoupling’ of US and Canadian supply chains
Freight carrier Cargojet reports a surge of cargo entering Canada directly as other countries seek to avoid US tariffs, boosting its first-quarter revenue to record levels.
Boeing sheds more 787s and 737s from inventory, completes 787 rework project
Boeing has finished fuselage-related rework to a batch of undelivered 787s and continues making progress offloading its once-massive inventory of undelivered 737 Max and 787s.
Boeing expects little financial harm from tariffs, expresses confidence as China rejects deliveries
The US aircraft manufacter’s executives say they will find new homes for jets that Chinese customers are rejecting due to tariffs
Air Canada names Mark Galardo chief commercial officer amid executive shuffle
Air Canada is changing the job descriptions of three lead executives, effective 1 May.
Northrop losses on B-21 climb to $2bn as company seeks to ‘accelerate’ production
The defence manufacturer says the loss results from changes made to its B-21 manufacturing process aimed at achieving “accelerated production rates” on the next-generation stealth bomber.
Boeing trims Q1 loss to $31m amid more aircraft deliveries
Boeing stemmed its financial losses and cash outflow in the first quarter of 2025 thanks to delivering more aircraft, posting a $31 million loss for the period.
Supernal confirms start of technology demonstrator flight tests
Hyundai Motors-backed electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) developer Supernal has begun flight tests of its technology demonstrator aircraft.
Thai Airways free to expand US services as FAA upgrades Thailand’s safety status
US regulators have restored Thailand’s Category 1 safety classification, nearly a decade after downgrading its status, enabling the state’s airlines to expand US operations.
CFM Q1 Leap deliveries decline year on year, but -1A durability fix now standard
CFM International’s Leap turbofan deliveries slipped 13% year on year in the first quarter to 319 units amid stubborn supply chain issues, a decrease coming as the manufacturer aims to hike full-year shipments by 15-20%.
Alaska seeks to gain San Diego market share from Southwest and other competitors
Alaska Airlines is stepping up pressure on Southwest Airlines and other major US airlines with an increased network presence in San Diego.
Lockheed will not protest Boeing win in USAF sixth-generation fighter effort
Although the military airframer was unsuccessful in its bid to produce the US Air Force’s forthcoming sixth-generation fighter, Lockheed Martin plans to incorporate design features from the prototype into the F-35 chassis for an aircraft that can deliver “80% of sixth-generation capability” at a reduced price.
P&W plans next year to introduce GTF Advantage updates for baseline PW1100Gs
Pratt and Whitney (P&W) intends next year to begin offering a package to equip in-service PW1100G geared turbofans (GTFs) with most of the durability improvements found in the company’s newly certified GTF Advantage.
Allegiant’s domestic passenger traffic stays strong through March
Allegiant’s most-recent operational statistics provide a snapshot of air traffic volumes prior to the USA’s introduction of steep tariffs on most of the world’s countries on 2 April.
GE Aerospace and RTX warn tariffs will inflate 2025 costs, eye ‘tariff surcharge’
US manufacturing giants GE Aerospace and RTX expect to incur hundreds of millions of dollars in tariff-related expenses in 2025, with GE saying it intends to impose “tariff surcharges” on customers to help minimise financial fallout.
Kratos adding landing gear-equipped XQ-58 to inventory amid growth in uncrewed fighter scope
The US Air Force appears to have expanded its goals for a planned fleet of uncrewed fighters beyond the initial concept of a “disposable” aircraft to a model featuring affordable and reusable jets.
Electra secures more funding, still eyes 2029 market entry for EL9 blown-lift aircraft
Hybrid-electric aircraft developer Electra has secured another $115 million to help fund development of the EL9 regional passenger aircraft that it aims to have in service before 2030.
FAA expects to roll out modernised NOTAM system in September
The Federal Aviation Administration expects to begin operating its modernised Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) system in September, capping a priority project aimed at replacing an ageing technology that has been prone to outages.
Engine fire forces passengers to evacuate Delta A330 by slide
The right-side engine of an Airbus A330 operated by Delta Air Lines caught fire on 21 April after the aircraft pushed away from a gate at Orlando International airport, forcing passengers to evacuate using slides.
Heico names Mendelson brothers as next co-CEOs, acquires Rosen Aviation
Laurans Mendelson, longtime chief executive of US parts supplier Heico, will step down from that role on 1 May and be succeeded by his two sons as co-CEOs.
Boeing rolls out new company values as staff survey shows sagging ‘pride in Boeing’
A new staff survey completed by Boeing revealed ongoing morale issues and a broad belief among employees that leaders should better communicate the company’s direction and take more action to address poor performance.
Commercial satellite operator Maxar offering GPS-denied navigation solution
Amid rising concern about the vulnerability of GPS navigation signals to jamming — based on observations from Ukraine and the Middle East — Maxar has developed an airborne navigation tool that does not rely on GPS.
Transat secures new P&W ‘support agreement’ for engine-related aircraft groundings
Transat AT has struck a new support agreement for the Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan (GTF) engines that power its narrowbody Airbus aircraft.
BNSF Railway chief Kathryn Farmer nominated to American’s board of directors
American Airlines has nominated BNSF Railway chief executive Kathryn Farmer to join its board of directors, with a vote set for June.
US Air Force considers replacing MESA radar on future E-7 fleet
As Boeing begins production on the first prototype of the US Air Force’s planned fleet of E-7A airborne early warning and control jets, the service is exploring what advanced technologies it may incorporate into the final design, including advanced sensors, communications and electronic warfare countermeasures.
Hunnu Air becomes first Mongolian carrier to receive an Embraer E-Jet E2
Mongolian carrier Hunnu Air has received its first Embraer 195-E2 just days after Mongolia’s civil aviation regulator approved type certificates for both the E190-E2 and E195-E2.
Delta and United face slackening demand for international flights originating outside USA
Top US airlines report that demand for US-originating international flights remains strong, though data suggest that fewer international travellers are visiting American cities.
Spirit hires Sun Country executive Dave Davis as CEO
Former Sun Country Airlines chief financial officer (CFO) Dave Davis will be the next chief executive of Spirit Airlines, effective on 21 April and filling a post left vacant by the recent departure of former CEO Ted Christie.
Archer previews plans for United-supported air taxi network in New York
Electric air taxi maker Archer Aviation has shared more details of its envisioned network connecting Manhattan to New York’s major airports in cooperation with United Airlines.
DOT to review FAA’s handling of 737 Max smoke issue as Boeing develops software fix
The US Department of Transportation’s (DOT) top inspector is reviewing a controversial Federal Aviation Administration decision related to an engine issue that can cause thick smoke to quickly inundate Boeing 737 Max cockpits and cabins.
United expects no ‘direct impact’ of tariffs on aircraft prices
Executives with United Airlines on 16 April insisted that the carrier will not pay significantly more for Airbus or Boeing aircraft as a result of tariffs on US trading partners.
Trump Administration takes aim at reforming sluggish arms export system
The creaking bureaucracy associated with the USA’s Foreign Military Sales system has long been the subject of criticism from Pentagon leaders and defence industry executives.
FAA and EASA certificate G800 as Gulfstream ups range
US and European regulators have certificated Gulfstream’s ultra-long-range G800 business jet, which the company now says has range of 8,200nm (15,186km), up from a previously advertised 8,000nm.
American to add AT&T wi-fi across most of nearly 1,500-strong fleet
American Airlines is joining the trend of equipping aircraft with free wi-fi – though only for members of its loyalty programme – through a partnership with AT&T.
FAA revokes New York Helicopter’s certificate after company fired operations chief
The Federal Aviation Administration has yanked the operating certificate held by New York Helicopter, the firm that operated the Bell 206 L-4 that crashed into the Hudson River on 6 April, killing all six people aboard.
United plans to cut domestic capacity but reports strong international demand
In response to slowing demand, United plans to cut four percentage points of domestic passenger capacity from its network starting in the third quarter.
Because Boeing and China need each other, tariff delivery disruption might not last
Aerospace analysts suspect China and the USA will negotiate a solution to ensure new tariffs do not keep Chinese airlines from continuing to receive new Boeing jets.
Investment firm Stonepeak completes acquisition of air cargo company ATSG
US investment firm Stonepeak completed last week its acquisition of Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) for a purchase price of $3.1 billion.
Avelo pivots to deportation flights as low-cost air travel demand slows
Avelo Airlines’ decision to operate chartered deportation flights US Immigration and Customs Enforcement comes amid amid softening demand for low-cost airline seats, with the carrier moving to provide stability for its scheduled passenger service.
Operator of Bell 206 that crashed into Hudson River last week stops operating
The company that operated the Bell 206 L-4 helicopter that crashed into Hudson River near New York City on 10 April is ceasing flights.
Former Lufthansa and Malaysia A380s set to be torn down for spares
Three Airbus A380s – two ex-Lufthansa and one ex-Malaysia Airlines aircraft – are to undergo dismantling for spares by Florida-based VAS Aero Services.
Delta to test efficiency benefits of ‘shark skin’ treatments on Boeing 767s
US carrier Delta Air Lines is exploring a “shark skin” aircraft coating designed to reduce drag by testing the technology on some of its Boeing 767s.
WestJet ‘exploring opportunities’ to phase out 737 freighters
Canadian airline WestJet’s foray into dedicated freighter operations appears to be winding down about two years after the carrier entered the cargo market.
‘No one knows’: Aerospace firms scramble to understand tariff implications
It is clear that aerospace analysts, manufacturers and maintenance companies have little clarity about the specific impact of new tariffs on their operations and the broader sector – other than a widely held conviction that tariffs are bad for business.
Coulson to convert four ex-New Zealand C-130Hs to firefighters
New Zealand has sold four former air force Lockheed Martin C-130H tactical transports to firefighting specialist Coulson Aviation.
Frontier cuts earnings forecast amid ‘uncertain’ economic environment
The parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines expects to be loss-making in its first-quarter earnings, as it cuts its full-year earnings forecast amid an “uncertain environment” of sluggish demand and revenue growth.
Six reportedly killed as Bell 206 plunges into Hudson River
Early reports suggest that six people aboard a tourist helicopter that plunged on 10 April into the Hudson River were killed.
American-operated regional jets clip wingtips on taxiway at Reagan National
Two regional jets operated by American Airlines touched wingtips on 10 April on a taxiway at Ronald Reagan National airport in Washington, DC.
Delta takes hard stance against paying tariffs for Airbus deliveries
Delta Air Lines does not anticipate paying tariffs on any Airbus aircraft scheduled to be delivered in 2025.
Airbus prepares to open second A320neo line in Mobile, sticks to A220 production ramp goal
Airbus aims for its second A320neo final assembly line in Mobile to be operating in the third quarter of this year and is sticking to a goal of producing 14 A220s monthly by 2026 despite stubborn supply constraints.
A320neo part-out trend accelerates as AerFin preps to break down four jets
Another batch of Airbus A320neo-family jets are set to be disassembled for parts, as supply chain shortages make the practice of parting-out relatively new jets increasingly attractive.
Cessna 525 entered right turn after take-off before crashing in woodland
US investigators have disclosed that a departing Cessna 525A jet was supposed to enter a left climbing turn, but started turning to the right before it descended and crashed after take-off from Mesquite Metro airport.
Thales to provide new helmet display for USAF F-16s
Thales Visionix has won a contract to supply Scorpion helmet-mounted display retrofit kits for Lockheed Martin F-16s of the US Air Force (USAF).
Delta’s growth ‘largely stalled’ as economic gloom deepens
Chief executive Ed Bastian says first-quarter efforts focused on “protecting margins and free cash flow”, asserting that the company is built to weather times of economic difficulty.
Wideroe to upgrade older Dash 8 cockpits with Universal display system
Norwegian regional carrier Wideroe is to be the first to fit older De Havilland Dash 8s with a new digital cockpit display system.
Shield AI continues progress with V-BAT
US defence technology firm Shield AI has rolled out new capabilities for its V-BAT unmanned air vehicle as well as a new remote sensing capability.
Ex-EgyptAir A220 parted out to support Delta Air Lines fleet
Delta Air Lines is to use parted-out components from an ex-EgyptAir Airbus A220-300 to support its own fleet of the type in the face of spares shortages.
Grounded Transair aims to resume operations after appeal against certificate revocation
Grounded US cargo carrier Transair is aiming to resume flights from Hawaii later this year, after a judging panel apparently dismissed an attempt to revoke the certificate of operator Rhoades Aviation.
WestJet begins long-delayed integration of Sunwing’s 737s
WestJet Group recently started integrating Sunwing’s fleet of 18 Boeing 737s into its operations, roughly two years after acquiring the Canadian leisure carrier – and more than three years removed from the deal’s announcement.
All five occupants survive as HA-420 skids off Oregon runway into water
Five occupants of a Honda Aircraft HA-420 have survived after a landing accident in Oregon which resulted in the light jet coming to rest in water.
Boeing’s backlog swells in March with 163 orders
The company disclosed its March order and delivery figures on 8 April, saying FedEx signed a deal covering eight 777 Freighters last month and that unnamed customers ordered 21 737 Max, three 777Fs, 20 of the in-development 777X and 33 787s.
P&W introduces 3D-printed GTF repair process and expands overhaul deal with Delta
Pratt & Whitney is rolling out a new additive-manufacturing repair process for PW1000G geared turbofans (GTFs) and revealed a major expansion of GTF maintenance capacity through a partnership with Delta Air Lines.
General Atomics, Rafael team up on Bullseye strike missile
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems and Rafael will partner on a new long-range precision-guided strike missile called Bullseye.
Airbus Helicopters trains sights on Lakota cost and complexity claims
Airbus Helicopters has hit back at suggestions that its twin-engined UH-72A Lakota is too sophisticated and too expensive to deliver training for the US Army, arguing that there are more cost-effective means to improve outcomes than fleet replacement.
Ted Christie is out as Spirit Airlines CEO
Longtime Spirit Airlines chief executive Ted Christie has departed the company, stepping down from his role as CEO on 7 April in a move coming as Spirit navigates an corporate overhaul intended to stem financial losses.
US regional airlines Mesa and Republic to combine, with Republic taking control
US regional airline company Republic Airways Holdings plans to combine with financially struggling competitor Mesa Air Group to create a new publicly traded company that will be controlled by Republic’s management team.
Leonardo pitches M-346 as GCAP trainer, as Block 20 update advances
Leonardo has outlined its ambition for the M-346 to evolve into a common training platform for Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) partners Italy, Japan and the UK, as it advances work on a major Block 20 upgrade for the in-service type.
Canada’s Hydro-Quebec orders three ATR turboprops
Canadian hydroelectric provider Hydro-Quebec has ordered three ATR 72-600 turboprops, with deliveries set to start in September next year.
Janine Iannarelli on how an outsider can master the art of business jet sales
Janine Iannarelli describes herself as being “a bit of an enigma” when she broke into the business aviation industry decades ago.
USAF takes delivery of first OA-1K Skyraider II
The US Air Force (USAF) has taken delivery of its first L3Harris/Air Tractor OA-1K Skyraider II special mission turboprop.
Trump tariffs roil aerospace manufacturing, products set to get ‘more expensive’
The aerospace industry is scrambling to secure exemptions from steep new tariffs being imposed by the Trump administration, saying the taxes will drive up prices and could cause years of disruption to an already fragile supply chain.
NTSB fears emergency slide problem may be widespread on 737s and 757s
US investigators are urging the Federal Aviation Administration to require airlines to inspect Boeing 737 and 757 cabin door hardware after finding that many 757s contain hardware that fails to meet federal regulations.
US leisure market likely to endure ‘downward pressure on demand’: Sun Country CEO
Cost-conscious air travellers will likely tighten spending on vacations as a result of US-imposed tariffs roiling global markets, from the perspective of Sun Country Airlines chief Jude Bricker.
United to launch new routes to Asia and Australia this year
United Airlines is planning to launch new flights this year to Australia and Asia as part of a broader effort by the carrier to deploy new widebody jets to more far-flung destinations.
Partners hail success of hydrogen helicopter first flight
Unither Bioelectronique (UB) is claiming several aviation firsts following the first flight of a piloted hydrogen fuel cell-powered helicopter.
Modification work to begin on last F-16 for USAF’s autonomous VENOM programme
The final US Air Force (USAF) Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter destined to become an autonomous combat aircraft testbed has arrived at Eglin AFB, Florida.
A320neos being disassembled for parts as component shortages continue
Aircraft parts supplier Unical Aviation has acquired “a fleet” of used Airbus A320neos that it intends to disassemble and sell for parts, a plan it says marks the “first dedicated disassembly programme for the [A320]neo-family aircraft”.
Boeing CEO to cite ‘sweeping changes’ in testimony to US Senate
Boeing chief executive Kelly Ortberg today will tell US senators that the company has significantly improved the quality and safety of its products, while stressing the airframer’s strategic importance to the US economy and its industrial base.
Alaskan C-54 in-flight explosion traced to engine power loss and poorly-repaired fuel tank
US investigators believe loss of power in the outboard left-hand engine of a Douglas C-54, and the subsequent feathering of its propeller, initiated a chain reaction of events including a fuel explosion and fatal loss of control.
Canada’s Porter Airlines makes ‘targeted frequency reductions’ amid softening US demand
Porter Airlines is the latest Canadian carrier to tweak its schedule based on weakening demand for US travel, though it pledged to maintain a substantial operation to the USA during the summer air travel season.
Air Canada expects to receive first A321XLR in Q4 as fleet renewal progresses
Air Canada is expecting Airbus to deliver the first of 30 extra-long range A321XLRs it has on order in the fourth quarter, adding to an ongoing renewal of the Montreal-based carrier’s narrowbody fleet.
US Navy ditches field carrier landing requirement for T-45 Goshawk replacement
The US Navy (USN) expects to sign a contract within less than two years to begin replacing its fleet of Boeing T-45 Goshawk jet trainers, after issuing its latest request for information (RFI) linked to the requirement on 31 March.
Boeing’s 737 Max legal battles continue as CEO prepares to testify this week in Washington
Boeing will be busy in this week, as the company’s chief executive gears up to testify before a Senate committee and as Boeing attorneys work through civil and criminal cases related to the 737 Max.
General Atomics planning modular family of uncrewed fighters
With plans to show off its offering for the US Air Force at the upcoming Paris air show, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems says it is taking a modular approach to the autonomous fighter concept that will allow customers to easily pick and choose different capabilities for their fleets.
FAA now accepting requests to withhold identities of private aircraft owners
The Federal Aviation Administration is allowing private aircraft owners to opt out of sharing identifying information on the FAA’s websites, potentially making it more difficult to track the movements of privately owned aircraft such as business jets.
Passengers suffered fractures during 757’s ‘abrupt’ response to conflict alert
US investigators have determined that two passengers on board a United Boeing 757-200 suffered bone fractures after the crew responded to a conflict alert with an ”abrupt” pitch input.
USAF need fuels Embraer’s ambition with KC-390 Agile Tanker
Embraer believes its KC-390 is well positioned to enter the US Air Force’s (USAF’s) future inventory in a proposed “Agile Tanker” guise, despite walking away from a partnership with a US-based potential prime.
European airline chiefs insist transatlantic demand on track despite Trump concerns
Cautious European airline leaders have so far seen no negative impacts from the policies of US President Donald Trump on the lucrative transatlantic passenger market, although they are continuing to keep a close eye on trends.
‘Clearly, something was missed’: FAA administrator flags alarming data before DC collision
Sitting administrator Chris Rocheleau acknowledges that the Federal Aviation Administration missed alarming data trends in the years leading up to the collision of an American Airlines regional jet and a military helicopter near Washington, DC’s Ronald Reagan National airport.
Counter-drone testing interfered with commercial flights at Reagan National
Counter-drone testing performed by the Secret Service and US Navy triggered faulty traffic warnings for commercial aircraft on approach to Washington, DC’s Ronald Reagan National airport, congressional testimony revealed on 27 March.
US Army adds five more MH-47G Chinooks to remanufacturing effort
Boeing has been awarded a $240 million contract to remanufacture another five MH-47G Block II Chinook rotorcraft for the US Army Special Operations Aviation Command.
Qatar gets approval for $2bn MQ-9B SkyGuardian buy
Qatar has edged closer to finalising an almost $2 billion order for General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-9B SkyGuardian remotely piloted aircraft and a related package of precision-guided weapons.
Belgium’s first MQ-9B SkyGuardian advances flight tests
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has completed the first flight of an MQ-9B SkyGuardian for European customer Belgium.
Alaska sets target date for launch of Seattle-to-Seoul route
Alaska Air Group has set the date for launching transpacific flights between Seattle and Seoul, as part of a broader international expansion plan enabled by Hawaiian Airlines’ widebody jets.
Start-up Natilus ‘talking to everyone’ in search for US manufacturing site
Start-up aircraft manufacturer Natilus has started looking for places to build large-scale facilities that will produce its proposed blended wing-body aircraft.
NTSB’s Bering Air crash inquiry focuses on take-off weight and possible ice build up
The Bering Air Textron Aviation Cessna 208B that crashed in February, killing 10 people, had exceeded the maximum take-off weight allowed in icing conditions and had slowed significantly in the moments before going down.
FedEx firms options on more 777Fs and pushes back MD-11F retirement schedule
US express freight firm FedEx has exercised options on a further eight Boeing 777 freighters, but pushed the retirement of Boeing MD-11Fs back by four years.
Boeing wins contract for USAF’s sixth-generation fighter, dubbed F-47
After six months of uncertainty, the US Air Force is moving ahead with the Next Generation Air Dominance programme, choosing Boeing to build the new F-47 sixth-generation crewed fighter platform.
Endeavor CRJ900 crash probe confirms lack of flare prior to hard landing
Investigators’ preliminary findings regarding the Endeavor Air regional jet crash at Toronto confirm the initial impression that the aircraft exhibited little flare before the hard landing.
Take-off clearance cancelled as Southwest 737 pilots mistake taxiway for runway
Air traffic control at Orlando International airport cancelled the take-off clearance for a Southwest Airlines-operated Boeing 737 that began its take-off roll on a taxiway.
New UK carrier Ascend secures approval for US charters
New UK operator Ascend Airways has obtained approval to conduct transatlantic charter services to US destinations.
KC-46 cracks will not affect 2024 deliveries, rework ‘not a big deal’: Boeing CFO
Boeing has revealed details about cracks that recently prompted it to halt deliveries of KC-46 military tankers, while insisting the issue will not seriously disrupt the programme.
Boeing and FAA still working through exemption request for 737 Max 7 and 10
Boeing remains unsure how the Federal Aviation Administration will handle the company’s request for regulatory exemptions related to the stall management yaw damper (SMYD) on the 737 Max 7 and Max 10.
Porter expands loyalty programme to include flights with Alaska and Air Transat
Porter Airlines is strengthening strategic relationships with Alaska Airlines and Air Transat by now offering loyalty programme members the ability to redeem VIPorter points for flights with those carriers.
Boeing CFO downplays tariff impacts on commercial jet business
Boeing does not expect new tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump to significantly impact its commercial aircraft business, at least not immediately.
Pilots failed to recognise runway before Midway incursion and Southwest 737 go-around: NTSB
The pilots of a Flexjet Bombardier Challenger 350 involved last month in a runway incursion at Chicago Midway International told investigators that they did not recall seeing the hold short line and failed to recognise the runway as distinct from the taxiway.
Rise Air banks on incoming ATR turboprops for far-north expansion
Canadian passenger and cargo carrier Rise Air is counting on incoming ATR 72 turboprops to spearhead a new era of growth that may see it expand beyond its home province of Saskatchewan.
United 787 suffered inertial reference unit failures ahead of January inflight upset
Two inertial reference units (IRU) on a United Airlines Boeing 787-8 failed shortly before the jet experienced a rapid altitude shift over Africa in January that injured 16 people.
‘There is no kill switch’: Pentagon denies F-35 rumours as calls grow to ditch US defence products
With allied governments and industrial competitors now openly discussing possible cancellation of orders for the American stealth fighter, the Pentagon’s F-35 office is officially denying unsubstantiated rumours it can remotely disable the jets of overseas operators.
FAA ‘permanently’ closes helicopter route near DC's National airport, part of broader response to collision
The Federal Aviation Administration will shutter the Route 4 helicopter corridor near Ronald Reagan Washington National airport in response to the deadly 29 January midair collision involving a passenger jet.
Airbus general works council official urges Berlin to axe F-35 purchase
An official representing workers at European giant Airbus’s defence unit in Germany has called on the nation’s new government to cancel an order for the Lockheed Martin F-35A, amid geopolitical uncertainty caused by the actions of US President Donald Trump.
Trump nominates Republic Airways chief as FAA administrator
US president Donald Trump has nominated Republic Airways chief executive Bryan Bedford as the next administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, a move widely supported by US airlines and aviation groups.
FAA complies with court order to reinstate fired employees
In response to a court order, the Federal Aviation Administration has reinstated 132 employees it had fired in February amid a broad effort by the Trump administration to curtail the size of the US government.
Judge again delays Boeing plea deal deadline
A federal judge has again granted Boeing and the US Department of Justice (DOJ) another four weeks to hammer out the terms of a possible guilty plea to fraud charges, but attorneys for crash victims are warning they will challenge any additional requests for extensions.
Sunwing pilots urge WestJet to reverse planned closure of Quebec City base
The pilots’ union for Canadian vacation specialist Sunwing Airlines is calling on parent WestJet to reconsider its planned closure of Sunwing’s base at Quebec City Jean Lesage International airport.
Delta unveils centennial-celebrating livery
Delta Air Lines unveiled over the weekend a special aircraft livery celebrating the airline’s 100th year of operations.
Pilatus rolls out PC-12 Pro update of single turboprop
Swiss aircraft developer Pilatus has revealed an updated version of its PC-12 called the PC-12 Pro, an aircraft with new Garmin touchscreen avionics, auto-land capability, flight-control safety updates and a refreshed cabin.
Engineer Ruhman succeeds Delaney as Boeing chief aerospace safety officer
Boeing has named veteran company engineer Don Ruhmann as chief aerospace safety officer, succeeding Michael Delaney in the role.
US transportation chief Duffy vows to probe FAA’s diversity-aimed hiring practices
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is launching a “full investigation” into the diversity, equity and inclusion hiring practices of the Federal Aviation Administration.
Fire engulfs American 737’s engine after diversion to Denver
An American Airlines Boeing 737-800 caught fire at Denver International airport the evening of 13 March after the pilots had diverted there due to engine vibrations.
General Atomics testing remotely piloted flight with satellite network key to polar operations
The uncrewed aircraft manufacturer says it has completed two test flights of a Gray Eagle 25M controlled remotely via a low-earth-orbit satellite network – technology that could allow expanded range in polar regions.
FAA to mandate 787 forward-pressure bulkhead inspections
The Federal Aviation Administration plans to require airlines to inspect 787 forward-pressure bulkheads to address a concern involving gaps caused by manufacturing defects.
Tariff war and depreciating Canadian dollar threaten Air Transat’s financial position
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat is “closely analysing” the escalating trade war and from US President Donald Trump, as souring consumer sentiment may affect the airline’s business.
AerCap CEO sees ‘marked improvement’ at Boeing
One of the world’s top aircraft lessors sees evidence that Boeing is making progress in addressing its longstanding quality troubles. Fitch Ratings also sees positive signs.
US airlines and aerospace groups push back against tariffs, brace for impact
A broad coalition of US aviation groups are urging the Trump administration to exempt the aerospace industry from stiff new import tariffs.
Spirit Airlines emerges from bankruptcy ‘stronger and more focused’: CEO Christie
Ultra-low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has completed the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process, with chief executive Ted Christie pledging to focus on continued upgrades to the airline’s products.
Sun Country CFO hints at potentially joining Alaska Air Group
Sun Country Airlines would prioritise Boeing 737 operators that have similar approaches to scheduled passenger service and hauling freight in a potential airline combination partner.
Boeing maintained faster delivery pace in February as recovery progressed
Boeing in February managed to keep delivering jets at a relatively brisk pace, handing over 44 commercial aircraft during the month, including 32 737s.
In major shift, Southwest Airlines will charge for checked bags
Southwest Airlines is ditching free checked bags for all customers, part of a broader business overhaul that has seen the airline do away with several policies that long differentiated it from competitors.
AW609 inches closer to certification with start of type-inspection flights
Federal Aviation Administration pilots have begun Type Inspection Authorization flights of the Leonardo Helicopters AW609 tiltrotor from the manufacturer’s US plant in Philadelphia.
‘Macro uncertainty’ lowers Delta’s first-quarter financial forecast
Major US carrier Delta Air Lines is warning of a potential shift in air travel trends and “softer close-in demand” as it lowers financial expectations for the first quarter.
US LC-130s pioneer take-off and landing on frozen lakes
Recent training operations in the Canadian Arctic saw the New York Air National Guard’s unique fleet of Lockheed Martin LC-130 “Skibirds” land on a frozen lake surface, the first time the ski landing gear-equipped transports have operated from freshwater ice, rather than the polar sea ice or snow they typically use.
Trump order prompts FAA to postpone new air taxi rule
The Federal Aviation Administration has temporarily suspended enforcement of its new air-taxi operations and pilot-training rule to allow the provisions to be reviewed by the Trump administration.
Bell pitches ‘purpose-built’ 505 trainer for US Army
Bell is proposing a “purpose-built” version of the 505 light-single for an emerging US Army requirement for a new training helicopter.
CMA CGM to take 777 freighter fleet to five as it sets up Chicago hub
French logistics giant CMA CGM Group is to establish a cargo hub in Chicago were it will station Boeing 777 freighters.
Sikorsky completes transition flights of rotor-blown-wing prototype
Sikorsky has successfully completed vertical-to-forward flight transitions of its autonomous rotor-blown-wing demonstrator, an all-electric aircraft the company is using to better understand the complexity of such manoeuvres.
Sikorsky reveals S-92A+ Phase IV gearbox as it recommits to civil segment
Sikorsky has revealed the first images of the Phase IV gearbox designed for the new S-92A+ helicopter, while insisting the update reflects the company’s long-term commitment both to the heavy-twin and the broader civil market.
Israeli carrier Israir signals intent to re-introduce US flights using A330s
Israeli operator Israir Group is intending to restore transatlantic connections, disclosing that it plans to resume US services using Airbus A330-200 twinjets.
US Air Force wrapping up analysis of next-generation tanker requirement
The general in charge of the service’s fleet of cargo and refueller aircraft says the service has been evaluating its needs for a new tanker aircraft, including runway requirements, fuel transfer capacity and observability signature.
United starts equipping 500-strong regional fleet with Starlink connectivity
United Airlines has started connecting its regional jets to SpaceX’s Starlink network, which will eventually provide free wi-fi to customers across the US carrier’s fleet.
Florida cargo operator 7 Air prepares for services after US certification
Florida-based start-up cargo carrier 7 Air has secured US FAA certification following a long approval process.
RTX confirms PW2040 engines will power JetZero demonstrator, with Collins to supply nacelles
RTX has confirmed its Pratt & Whitney unit will supply PW2040 engines to budding blended-wing-body developer JetZero for its demonstrator aircraft, with Collins Aerospace to provide the nacelles for the project.
US Aviation Academy agrees to acquire at least 38 Tecnam aircraft
Flight training provider US Aviation Academy has agreed to acquire 38 aircraft from Italian manufacturer Tecnam, including singe-prop P2010s and twin-engined P2006Ts.
Avelo building trio of North Carolina operational bases with latest outpost in Charlotte
Following its pattern of targeting secondary airports near metro centres, low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines has begun operating a new base at Charlotte Concord-Padgett Regional airport – the second in a trio of planned North Carolina bases.
Cockpit-voice recorder failed to capture audio before Philadelphia Learjet ambulance crash
US investigators have disclosed that the cockpit-voice recorder on the ambulance Learjet 55 which fatally crashed in Philadelphia failed to capture audio from the flight.
Uncrewed fighter makers shift away from disposable concept to reusable aircraft
Rather than the ultra-cheap, single-use weapon systems at one time envisioned for the US Air Force’s new generation of uncrewed fighters, developers of the new aircraft now say the jets will be intended for reuse, but with far shorter lifespans than traditional military platforms.
ATSG expects deliveries of first four A330P2F conversions in 2025
US lessor Air Transport Services Group expects to soon take delivery of the first of 29 Airbus A330-300 Passenger-to-Freighter jets it has on order.
EASA gives nod to Garmin autoland retrofit for King Air 200s
European operators of some Beechcraft King Air 200s can now have their aircraft equipped with Garmin’s autoland and autothrottle systems.
Canada outlines role of P-8 and MQ-9B fleets in Arctic defence
The senior Canadian officer at the bi-national North American Aerospace Defence Command says Ottawa’s planned fleet of General Atomics MQ-9B uncrewed aircraft will be used to provide broad surveillance of Canada’s three oceanic coastlines, while the country’s forthcoming Boeing P-8A maritime patrol jets will conduct in-depth investigations of potential threats.
X-66 project progresses with small-scale wind-tunnel tests
Boeing and NASA have completed two initial wind-tunnel tests using small-scale models of X-66, the in-development trussed-braced-wing demonstrator.
US aviation groups urge Congress to overhaul air traffic control funding
US airline and labour groups are urging lawmakers to accelerate a restructuring of the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) organisation, seeking to influence fast-moving changes now sweeping US government agencies.
F-35B makes debut flight carrying Lockheed Martin anti-ship missiles
Lockheed Martin’s F-35B has conducted a first test-flight carrying the airframer’s AGM-158B Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM).
Mammoth Freighters carries out first cargo door installation on converted 777-300ER
Conversion developer Mammoth Freighters has conducted the first Boeing 777-300ER cargo door installation with modification partner Aspire MRO.
Spirit Airlines compensated $150m for ongoing Pratt & Whitney engine issues
The Florida-based low-cost carrier expects further payments as geared turbofan engine removals will continue through “at least” 2026.
USAF designates first uncrewed fighter prototypes YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A
The experimental designs from General Atomics and Anduril, which are set to fly this summer, are the first aircraft in the US inventory to bear the FQ designation representing an uncrewed fighter.
Allegiant chief operating officer Keny Wilper steps down
Allegiant Air’s chief operating officer Keny Wilper has stepped down and will be replaced on an interim basis by longtime company executive Tyler Hollingsworth.
USAF pauses KC-46 deliveries over structural cracks
The US Air Force, which operates 89 of the 767-derived tankers, has paused delivery of new aircraft after the discovery of structural cracks in two recently assembled jets that Boeing was preparing to turn over.
Boom’s XB-1 research jet shockwave captured during supersonic flight
US aeronautics agency NASA managed to capture the Boom Supersonic XB-1 research aircraft as it broke the sound barrier during its final flight on 10 February.
FAA mandates 737NG nacelle changes following deadly 2018 CFM56 failure
The Federal Aviation Administration has finalised airworthiness directives (ADs) aimed at ensuring Boeing 737NG nacelle and engine components can better withstand forces generated by CFM International CFM56 fan-blade failures.
Collins advances bid to supply new F-35 power and cooling system
Although the Pentagon has not decided how to address long-term power and cooling needs of the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter, aviation systems supplier Collins Aerospace is hoping to oust current provider Honeywell Aerospace on the lucrative programme.
Pentagon deploys additional aviation assets to US-Mexico border
Some 650 military aviation personnel from the US Army are being sent to the USA’s frontier with Mexico, including Sikorsky UH-60 and Boeing CH-47 helicopter crews, as part of Trump administration’s ongoing border security push.
How recent accidents spike placed renewed focus on aviation safety
Fatal accidents involving airliners are thankfully rare events, so a trio of high-profile losses within a few weeks – including a collision over Washington, DC – naturally drew attention.
Ortberg’s engineering focus shows signs of shifting Boeing
On 20 February, Boeing chief executive Kelly Ortberg told investors and the company’s vast network of suppliers exactly what they wanted to hear: “Supply chain on the 737 is in good shape… I feel like we are headed in the right direction.”
Why airlines are revising green transition plans as SAF production fails to take off
New mandates on sustainable aviation fuel use are adding time – and cost – pressure for airlines to decarbonise, even as their ability to operate the most efficient aircraft available is challenged.
Learjet overran at San Marcos after landing long in gusting tailwind
US investigators have determined that a Learjet 35A sustained serious damage during an overrun, after the crew failed to conduct a go-around despite an unstable approach in a tailwind.
USAF demonstrates rapid integration of Harpoon missile with F-16
The US Air Force has integrated the Boeing AGM-84 anti-ship missile with a Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter, in an effort demonstrate the rapid integration of new capabilities.
Spirit AeroSystems needs ‘additional funding’ to maintain operations
Spirit AeroSystems lost more money in the fourth quarter than it previously predicted and is now warning it will need more cash to continue operating.
US Air Force dubs new OA-1K armed crop duster ‘Skyraider II’ ahead of first delivery
The US Air Force and Special Operations Command are preparing to field the new low-cost close air support platform developed under the Armed Overwatch programme, which uses an Air Tractor turboprop modified for combat service by L3Harris.
Learjet touched down with misaligned landing-gear before fatal Scottsdale excursion
Investigators have disclosed that the Learjet 35A which veered off the runway and fatally collided with a parked business aircraft at Scottsdale had touched down with a misaligned left-hand main landing-gear.
DOT tentatively approves SkyWest Charter but labour groups urge reconsideration
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has tentatively approved a plan by US regional airline SkyWest to begin operating charter flights under a new subsidiary, coming down against powerful labour groups that have sought to squash the plan.
Brazilian approval clears flights by Rotor Technologies' pilotless R44
New Hampshire-based Rotor says the green light from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) means operators can now begin flying R550s, which are controlled by a remote operator on the ground.
Air France reinforces balked-landing training after A350 go-around tail-strike
Air France has implemented balked-landing training for pilots of several aircraft types including the Airbus A350, after one of the twinjets was involved in a tail-strike at Toronto.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy pledges to boost air traffic control hiring
The US government plans to hire more air traffic controllers in a bid to address long-term Federal Aviation Administration staffing shortages and boost public confidence in the safety of flying commercially.
FAA certificates GE Aerospace Catalyst engine, clearing hurdle for 2026 Beechcraft Denali approval
After several years of delays, GE Aerospace has received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration for its Catalyst turboprop, the engine that powers Beechcraft’s in-certification Denali single-prop.
Trump to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico in March
US President Donald Trump on 27 February affirmed his intention to raise import duties on the two key trade partners starting on 4 March, after previously delaying the punitive measures.
US FAA certifies P&W's GTF Advantage engine for A320neo family
US regulators have certified the Pratt & Whitney GTF Advantage engine, the latest variant of the PW1100G geared-turbofan powerplant for the Airbus A320neo family.
Canadian start-up reveals balloon-launched glider for long-range strike
Alberta-based Landing Zones Canada has completed development and flight testing of the Eagle Advanced Payload Delivery System, a low-observable glider that deploys from stratospheric altitudes via balloon to deliver lethal effects over significant distances.
US Navy renews fighter avionics sustainment contract with GE Aerospace
The performance-based logistics agreement will cover fighter jets from the US, Australian and Spanish navies as well as Bell AH-1Z attack helicopters from the US Marine Corps.
United 737 Max aborted take-off with wheel fire after long taxi to burn excess fuel
US investigators have determined that a Boeing 737 Max 9 aborted take-off with a damaging wheel fire, the result of its brakes overheating as the crew attempted to burn excess fuel while taxiing.
Boeing to axe Little Bird once current production run ends
Boeing is likely to cease production of the AH-6i Little Bird once it completes deliveries of the light-attack helicopter to its sole remaining customer Thailand.
Midway incursion: Exchange indicates executive jet failed to comply with hold-short order
Analysis of air-ground communications at Chicago Midway airport indicates that an executive jet failed to comply with a hold-short instruction before crossing an active runway, on which a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 was nearing touching down.
A350 crew ‘recognised’ low approach before San Francisco tower warning: Asiana
Korean carrier Asiana states that the crew of an Airbus A350 involved in a low-approach incident at San Francisco was aware of the situation before receiving an air traffic control warning.
ALPA opposes Boeing’s latest 737 Max 7 and 10 exemption request
Opposition has arisen to a regulatory exemption Boeing has requested for the 737 Max 7’s and Max 10’s stall-management yaw damper (SMYD), while Boeing continues insisting its proposal poses no safety threat and that the SMYD is well proven.
Remote operator Canadian North to be acquired by Exchange Income Corportation
Shareholders of Ottawa-headquartered operator Canadian North have entered a binding agreement to sell the airline to Exchange Income Corporation for C$205 million ($143 million).
Southwest 737 initiates go-around as unauthorised business jet enters runway
A Southwest Airlines-operated Boeing 737 initiated a go-around at Chicago Midway International airport to avoid a collision with a business jet that had entered the runway without authorisation from air traffic control.
Arajet signs for five leased Boeing 737s as it targets US flights
Dominican start-up carrier Arajet has a deal to lease a further five Boeing 737 Max 8s as it eyes flights to the USA.
Canada spins up Griffon replacement plan in move towards ‘balanced fleet concept’
Canada is likely to replace its ageing Bell CH-146 Griffons with multiple new rotorcraft types as it seeks a more “balanced fleet” to address its tactical transport needs.
US Navy boosts air-to-air refuelling capabilities with KC-130T clearance
The US Navy has bolstered its air-to-air refuelling capacity with an approval for updated Lockheed Martin KC-130T tactical transports to refuel a wider range of aircraft.
US Navy works to salvage crashed EA-18G from San Deigo harbour
Underwater salvage divers and explosive ordnance disposal technicians have already recovered more than 7,275kg (16,000lb) of wreckage from the doomed fighter jet, which crashed into the waters of San Diego Bay on 12 February.
Boeing rolls out anti-submarine warfare upgrades for US Navy P-8As amid Taiwan tension
The modifications incorporate a new combat systems suite featuring improved computer processing, a wide-band satellite communication system, a signals intelligence capability, a submarine track management system and additional communications and acoustics systems to enhance search, detection and targeting capabilities.
Asiana A350 crew warned of low altitude on approach to San Francisco
Air-ground communications at San Francisco indicate that a tower controller warned an Asiana Airbus A350-900 crew over the jet’s altitude after it sank below the glidepath on approach.
US FAA advises 757 cargo-door tests and cleaning after in-flight opening incidents
US safety regulators are recommending a series of checks on certain Boeing 757-200 converted freighters, after an incident in which the main cargo door opened during flight.
Delta defends qualifications of Endeavor flight 4819 pilots
Delta Air Lines is defending the qualifications of the pilots involved in Endeavor Air flight 4819, which erupted in flames and overturned following a hard landing in Toronto, as it battles ”disinformation” about the accident.
Boeing CEO ‘embracing’ Elon Musk’s help with VC-25B Air Force One replacement
Billionaire Elon Musk is now lending a hand to Boeing, assisting the company with developing the long-delayed 747-8-based VC-25B Air Force One replacement that president Donald Trump badly desires.
‘Combinations are coming’: Sun Country adds to airline consolidation chatter
With the US airline industry buzzing over potential tie-ups, Sun Country Airlines added to the chatter on 20 February by acknowleding that it views combinations with certain competitors favourably.
Spirit Airlines’ restructuring plan approved by US bankruptcy court
A US bankruptcy court has approved Spirit Airlines’ plan to reorganise through a Chapter 11 process and emerge with a stronger balance sheet.
USAF advances sixth-generation engine designs from Pratt & Whitney and GE Aerospace
The US Air Force has completed a detailed design review of two adaptive-cycle engine designs under the Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion effort, which aims to develop a turbofan for potential sixth-generation aircraft.
Boeing sees supply chain improvement, looks to hike 737 output
Boeing’s chief executive says the 737 Max’s supply chain is now “in good shape” and that the company will soon be ready to request further rate jumps from the Federal Aviation Administration.
F-15EX deemed effective against fifth-generation threats in Pentagon evaluation
The latest version of the venerable Boeing multi-role fighter has been assessed as operationally effective in an air superiority role by Pentagon auditors, including against fifth-generation aircraft operated by adversary forces.
JetBlue shopping around for potential tie-up partner as NEA appeal deadline looms
JetBlue Airways is exploring tie-ups with several US carriers, including the potential revival of its defunct the Northeast Alliance with American Airlines.
Aviation groups seek to sway changes to FAA as airlines drop bid to privatise ATC
In a major policy shift, the US airline industry’s largest trade group and several allies say they no longer support privatising US air traffic control (ATC).
Airbus has ‘clear picture’ of investment needed to turn around Spirit work packages
Airbus is aiming for a mid-year completion of a transaction to acquire Spirit AeroSystems work packages, but acknowledges that the complex deal is taking longer than expected.
US Navy expands funding for PteroDynamics autonomous logistics UAV
The service expanded funding for development of the company’s vertical take-off and landing Transwing autonomous aircraft by an additional $4.6 million, which will be used to build a test platform capable of delivering a 22.5kg (50lb) payload at least 400nm (740km).
BAE to expand electric-aviation systems work in New York
Aerospace firm BAE Systems is further investing in electric-aviation technologies, revealing plans to open a new technology development and production site at its existing facility in upstate New York.
Southwest caves further to Elliott as chief transformation officer steps down
Southwest Airlines is caving further to pressure from minority stakeholder Elliott Investment Management, which has been granted permission to own a greater share of the company’s outstanding stock.
Number of parked GTF-powered jets inches up as engine recall continues
Airlines globally now have 739 Airbus A320neo-family and Embraer E-Jet E2s jets parked, up from 687 in October last year.
Wisk progresses wind-tunnel testing with subscale model of autonomous air taxi
Autonomous air taxi developer Wisk Aero is wind-tunnel testing a subscale model of its pilotless aircraft at Boeing’s V/STOL Wind Tunnel facility in Philadelphia.
Record order backlog and rising defence spending boost BAE Systems’ figures
BAE Systems ended last year with a record order backlog and strong prospects for future growth through its activities in ventures such as the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
US Air Force drills F-35 pilots for Pacific operations
In the latest iteration of the ongoing combat readiness exercises known as Bamboo Eagle, American pilots of the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter were tested on skills needed to operate the single-engined jet over water for long durations.
Winter weather and crash at Toronto-Pearson force hundreds of Air Canada flight cancellations
Air Canada is grappling with the cascading effects of severe winter weather and the Endeavor Air MHIRJ CRJ900 crash at Toronto Pearson International airport.
Raytheon progressing with development of Stinger replacement
The US Army plans to replace Raytheon’s Cold War-era shoulder-launched FIM-92 anti-air missile with the Next-Generation Short Range Interceptor amid surging demand for flexible air defence capability.
DOJ indicts US aircraft parts firm for violating sanctions against Russia
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has indicted three employees of a US aircraft parts supplier for allegedly exporting aircraft components to a Russian airline in violation of US sanctions.
Alaska Air Group pushes back 787 and 737 fleet-growth plans due to Boeing delays
More than a year after taking delivery of its first Boeing 787-9, Hawaiian Airlines is operating only two 787s and has been informed by the US airframer to expect further delays.
Judge gives Boeing and DOJ another month to negotiate 737 Max fraud plea
Boeing and the US Department of Justice (DOJ) have received an extra month to negotiate a possible revised guilty plea by the company to federal fraud charges related to certification the 737 Max.
FAA approves Archer’s pilot-training programme
Air taxi developer Archer Aviation has received US Federal Aviation Administration approval for its pilot training academy, a milestone the company says will enable it to begin training pilots to fly its Midnight electric aircraft.
Jetcruzer purchasing ZeroAvia propulsion system to develop electric 500E
US aerospace firm Jetcruzer International has become the first buyer of a standalone 600kW electric propulsion system developed by low-emission specialist ZeroAvia.
Crashed Endeavor CRJ900 appeared to land hard and immediately catch fire
Surveillance video images purportedly capturing the landing accident at Toronto involving an MHIRJ CRJ900 appear to indicate the regional jet touched down hard, with fire erupting almost immediately.
Southwest axes 15% of corporate jobs in first-ever layoff
Southwest Airlines has slashed more than 1,750 corporate jobs – including roles in senior management – in its first large-scale retrenchment aimed at saving costs.
Staff cuts hit FAA but agency ‘continues to hire’ controllers
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) says the Federal Aviation Administration is still hiring air traffic controllers and other safety staff, amid reports that several hundred FAA workers were let go in recent days.
Delta CRJ900 comes to rest inverted after Toronto landing accident
All passengers and crew on board a Delta Air Lines MHIRJ CRJ900 regional jet have been accounted for, after a landing accident in which the jet came to rest inverted.
AeroVironment launches VTOL Jump 20-X for maritime operations
AeroVironment has launched a new variant of its Jump 20 vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft system, with the enhancement optimised for use from naval vessels.
Eviation culls workforce in ‘temporary pause’
US-based Eviation has laid off the majority of its staff as it seeks “long-term partnerships” to help bring its Alice all-electric aircraft to market.
NTSB considering erroneous Black Hawk altimeter readings ahead of CRJ700 collision
Accident investigators are seeking to determine the accuracy of cockpit altimeter readings presented to pilots of the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk that collided with a MHIRJ CRJ700 regional jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National airport on 29 January.
JetBlue’s GTF engines off-wing for average of 360 days amid widespread aircraft groundings
JetBlue Airways reports that it takes roughly one year on average for its Pratt & Whitney engines to return to service once taken off-wing for inspections and repairs.
Flair 737 overrun: Fatigued captain pressed go-around switch instead of autothrottle disconnect
Canadian investigators have found that a Boeing 737-800 overran at Kitchener Waterloo airport after its fatigued captain inadvertently allowed thrust to increase on one engine as the other was reversing thrust after touchdown.
Harbour Air waiting on Magni650 electric motor as ‘eBeaver’ programme progresses
Canadian seaplane operator Harbour Air expects before year-end to receive a Magnix Magni650 electric motor that it plans to install on a second demonstrator of its all-electric De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver.
Seaplane start-ups see 'enormous' opportunity but eVTOLs left investors ‘burned’
The niche and emerging sector – which includes players developing electric, hybrid-electric and hydrogen-powered seaplanes – faces funding challenges, partly because investors are weary of aviation projects after dumping billions of dollars into now-struggling air taxi developers.
US Navy loses second EA-18G in six months
A US Navy Boeing EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft has crashed in San Diego, with both crewmembers ejecting safely.
United claims ‘world’s largest’ mainline fleet following milestone aircraft delivery
United Airlines boasts that it has overtaken competitors as the world’s largest airline by fleet size after taking delivery of its 1,000th “mainline” jet.
Start-up Tidal Flight pitches Polaris seaplane, Tropic Ocean signs purchase deal
US start-up Tidal Flight has revealed plans to develop a hybrid-electric amphibious commuter aircraft and secured a tentative purchase commitment from Florida’s Tropic Ocean Airways.
Air Transat and Air Europa seek shared expansion with new interline agreement
Canadian leisure carrier Air Transat and Spain’s Air Europa have launched a new interline partnership intended to expand their respective reaches into the other’s domestic markets.
L3Harris stays focused on military business jet conversions despite army setback
Although it lost out on a major US Army contract to develop a new long-range surveillance aircraft based on a Bombardier business jet, L3Harris continues to deliver similar aircraft that will be deployed to hotspots like the Korean Peninsula, along with new electronic warfare aircraft for the US Air Force, Italy and Australia.
Spirit rebuffs latest Frontier takeover bid
Spirit Airlines has rejected a third takeover attempt by rival Frontier Airlines, and will instead proceed with its own recapitalisation efforts, which it expects to complete by end-March.
On-scene investigation of PSA regional jet and Black Hawk wreckage concludes
The US National Transportation Safety Board confirmed on 11 February that it is done examining pieces of the MHIRJ CRJ700 and Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk that collided and plummeted into the Potomac River.
Boeing accelerated 737 deliveries in January following tumultuous 2024
Boeing made progress last month in ramping up 737 Max deliveries, and landed fresh orders for more than 30 of the narrowbody jets.
Boeing removed 38 777X from backlog in recent weeks
Boeing in recent weeks removed orders for 38 of its in-development 777X from its backlog, placing the deals into a special accounting bucket reserved for orders it suspects might not close.
One fatality as Learjet collides with parked G200 during Scottsdale runway excursion
Fire department officials have confirmed one fatality from a collision at Scottsdale airport after a Learjet 35A experienced a runway excursion and struck a parked Gulfstream G200.
Canada reaffirms defence relationship with USA amid tariff tensions
Although the diplomatic relationship between the two North American allies has hit its lowest ebb in over a century, Canada’s top defence official is reaffirming the military relationship between Ottawa and Washington.
Southwest picks Tom Doxey to replace retiring CFO Tammy Romo
Southwest Airlines has named Tom Doxey, former president of US discounter Breeze Airways, as successor to longtime chief financial officer Tammy Romo, who is set to retire.
Supersonic Overture beckons as Boom concludes XB-1 flight-test programme
US aerospace firm Boom Supersonic is expecting to reach design freeze on the Overture supersonic passenger aircraft in about a week, as flight-testing of its experimental XB-1 jet concludes.
Spirit AeroSystems forecasts $413m fourth-quarter loss but sees delivery rates rising
Spirit AeroSystems significantly ramped up deliveries to Airbus and Boeing in the fourth quarter of 2024 but still expects to post a $413 million loss for the period.
Alaska search team finds no survivors in wreckage of Bering Air Cessna Caravan
None of the 10 occupants of a Textron Aviation Cessna 208B Caravan has survived after the aircraft crashed en route to Nome in Alaska.
SkyWest returning 30 regional jets to service for summer block-hour surge
Regional carrier SkyWest Airlines expects to approach “2019 levels” of block-hour flying this year as major US airlines boost their feeder networks.
Coast Guard and military aircraft search for Bering Air flight missing in Alaska
Search personnel in Alaska are trying to establish the location of a Textron Aviation Cessna 208 Caravan with 10 occupants which was declared overdue while operating to Nome on the Bering Sea coast.
Elon Musk’s institution-dismantling DOGE turns attention to US air traffic control
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says he has held aviation-focused talks with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), suggesting that drastic change could come to the country’s civil aviation regulators.
Bombardier warns on US import tariff uncertainty but puts ‘solid contingency plans’ in place
Bombardier chief executive Eric Martel has highlighted the airframer’s extensive US industrial presence and strong trading relationship as he used the company’s full-year results call to warn against the imposition of tariffs on Canada-built products.
Families’ attorneys ask new DOJ head Bondi to intervene in Boeing plea deal
A lawyer for relatives of passengers killed by two Boeing 737 Max crashes is urging new US attorney general Pam Bondi to get involved with negotiating a guilty plea by Boeing on charges that it defrauded the Federal Aviation Administration.
‘Conglomerates are out’: How Honeywell’s break up plan could revive aerospace business
Analysts think Honeywell’s decision to spin its aerospace division into a new standalone company could be a recipe to fix a business suffereing from under investment.
How year-end losses skewed our review of airline safety performance in 2024
An otherwise solid set of airline safety statistics through much of 2024 was transformed by two deadly losses, while pilot action elsewhere kept the final figures from being much worse.
JetBlue enters reciprocal loyalty relationship with partner TAP
Frequent flyers with JetBlue and TAP can now earn and redeem points ”using the programme of their choice when flying across either network”, the companies said 5 February.
Restored ‘Franken-bird’ F-35 returns to flight
After more than a year of work, engineers and maintenance experts from the US Air Force and Lockheed Martin successfully flew a regenerated F-35 fighter formed by splicing together sections from two damaged jets to form a single working aircraft.
Army helicopter was 100ft above mandatory flight ceiling during collision with PSA Airlines jet
Preliminary data released by the USA’s National Transportation Safety Board indicates the incident Sikorsky UH-60 was flying around 300ft when it impacted a PSA Airlines regional jet – some 100ft above the altitude ceiling of 200ft for rotorcraft in the area.
Canada’s Nolinor eyes blended wing-body Natilus aircraft for future gravel runway operations
Canadian charter carrier Nolinor Aviation is looking to the future by securing production positions for an optionally piloted cargo aircraft being developed by Southern California start-up Natilus.
L3Harris Viper Shield EW system gets airborne on Block 70 F-16
L3Harris Technologies’ Viper Shield electronic warfare (EW) system has undergone its first flight on a Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 fighter, with deliveries of the self-protection equipment to begin before year-end.
NTSB releases Learjet 55 crash photographs
Photographs released by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) show the extent of ground damaged caused by last week’s deadly crash of a Learjet 55, and the state of the jet’s recovered cockpit-voice recorder.
Allegiant takes delivery of three 737 Max jets from Boeing ‘earlier than contemplated’
Allegiant Air ended last year with four Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft as it took three of the type sooner than previously expected.
US Marine Corps plans mechanical improvements to address Osprey safety concerns
Following a tumultuous multi-year period of serious safety incidents for the iconic Bell-Boeing tiltrotor, the US Marine Corps says it is pursuing mechanical improvements of Osprey components blamed for at least one fatal crash and numerous groundings.
Final US AV-8B Harriers to retire from service in 2027
The latest aviation strategy from the US Marine Corps calls for half of the service’s vertical/short take-off and landing AV-8B Harrier jump jets to be retired by 2026, with the remaining aircraft mothballed in 2027.
Sun Country building toward operating a score of 737s for Amazon
Sun Country Airlines is starting to significantly ramp freight-hauling activities on behalf of Amazon.
Bombardier expands at Biggin Hill with plans to open paint shop in 2026
Bombardier plans to open a new aircraft paint facility at London Biggin Hill airport in 2026 as part of the Montreal-based manufacturer’s ongoing strategy of expanding its global aftermarket services business.
Investigators strive to clarify timeline of Washington mid-air collision
US investigators are still working to align data from flight recorders, radar and air traffic control transmissions to clarify the timeline of the mid-air collision over Washington.
No more ‘must win competitions’ for Lockheed under de-risking strategy: CEO Taiclet
Chief executive James Taiclet says the defence giant has repositioned its portfolio of development programmes, including by accepting some short-term penalties in 2024 on a secretive aircraft development programme.
Air Wisconsin plans hundreds of layoffs as agreement with American winds down
US regional carrier Air Wisconsin plans to lay off hundreds of workers as it pivots from operating on behalf of American Airlines to charter and essential air service (EAS) flying.
RTX chief Calio to take added role as board chair, Hayes to step down
RTX chief executive Christopher Calio will succeed Gregory Hayes as chair of the company’s board, effective on 30 April.
Private equity firms to acquire Triumph Group for $2bn
US aerospace supplier Triumph Group has agreed to be purchased by two private equity firms for about $2 billion, a deal that takes the publicly traded business back into private hands.
Crashed ambulance Learjet’s cockpit recorder found 8ft beneath impact point
Preliminary flightpath analysis indicates the ambulance Learjet 55 which crashed in Philadelphia had climbed to about 1,500ft before steeply descending and striking the ground.
United A319 suffers ‘engine issue’ during take-off at Houston
A United Airlines Airbus A319 aborted take-off at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental airport following the discovery of an unspecified “engine issue”.
Investigators analysing CRJ and Black Hawk crews’ situational awareness prior to fatal collision
Investigators probing the mid-air collision over Washington between a regional jet and a military helicopter have provided greater clarity on the circumstances of the accident, but are still trying to understand each crew’s level of situational awareness.
Collision inquiry still ascertaining altitude of impact between CRJ and Black Hawk
US investigators are still trying to determine precisely the altitude at which the Washington mid-air collision occurred, although early indications put the PSA Airlines CRJ700 at 325ft at the time it was struck by a Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopter.
Ambulance Learjet came down 2.5nm from Northeast Philadelphia departure runway
Communications with the ambulance Learjet 55 which came down in Philadelphia indicate that the accident occurred just after take-off, as the aircraft was transferred to departure control.
Learjet 55 crashes after departing Philadelphia
A Learjet 55 business jet crashed after departing Northeast Philadelphia airport the evening of 31 January, with video showing what is purportedly the jet slamming into the ground and igniting a massive fireball.
Spirit AeroSystems stockholders approve Boeing acquisition plan
Spirit AeroSystems’ shareholders have approved an deal under which the Wichita company would be acquired by Boeing, clearing a path for the deal to close in mid-2025.
Gulfstream misses 2024 delivery target amid engine shortages and supplier quality trouble
Gulfstream failed to meet its 2024 aircraft delivery goal due to factors including supplier quality problems and shortages of the Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 turbofans that power the company’s new ultra-long-range G700 business jet.
Night vision equipment and crowded airspace under scrutiny in Washington collision
A former helicopter pilot familiar with the incident area says city lights, crowded airspace and the use of night vision equipment by military pilots make for a hectic operating environment.
SkyAlyne completes orders for new Canadian trainer fleet with King Air 260 deal
The joint-venture company tasked with modernising pilot instruction for the Canadian military has ordered the final airframes for its 71-strong Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) fleet: seven Beechcraft King Air 260s.
Extent of helicopter crew’s visual contact with CRJ central to collision probe
Central to the Washington mid-air collision inquiry is whether the military helicopter crew correctly identified the inbound PSA Airlines regional jet, having apparently been informed of its position and intention some 2min before the accident.
PSA CRJ700 recorders recovered from Potomac River: NTSB
The cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the PSA Airlines-operated regional jet that crashed near Ronald Reagan National airport after colliding in midair with a US Army helicopter have been recovered by investigators.
Trump names longtime FAA leader Rocheleau as acting administrator
US president Donald Trump named Chris Rocheleau, who has logged 20 years working at the Federal Aviation Administration, as the agency’s acting administrator, a move following the 29 January mid-air collision involving a passenger jet near Washington, DC.
President Trump offers ‘strong opinions’ about CRJ700 midair collision
While acknowledging that the cause of the 29 January midair collision remains unknown, US president Donald Trump has cited diversity hiring practices by the Federal Aviation Administration and potential missteps by the pilots of a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
Black Hawk involved in PSA Airlines crash was conducting a night proficiency flight
The crew of a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk that fatally struck a commercial airliner was assigned to a Virginia-based VIP transport unit and was performing an annual night proficiency flight at the time of the incident.
Southwest sees ‘plenty of transactions’ ahead as Boeing ramps 737 production
As an all-Boeing 737 operator, Southwest Airlines is a critical customer for Boeing as the US airframer works to produce higher rates of its signature narrowbody jet.
B-21, TACAMO deals boost Northrop backlog, as it sells off training business
Northrop Grumman is to sell its Training Services business to Serco Inc, with the $327 million disposal expected to be completed within the coming months.
No survivors reported from PSA Airlines crash in Washington, DC
Emergency response officials from the District of Columbia say no survivors have been found after a Bombardier CRJ700 operated by PSA Airlines collided with a US Army helicopter over the Potomac River, with the effort now shifting from a rescue to recovery mission.
PSA’s ironic connection to the advancement of collision avoidance
PSA Airlines, the carrier involved in the mid-air accident over Washington, ironically preserves the name of another airline whose involvement in two mid-air collisions – one of which remains the worst in US history – contributed to airspace safety reforms, and helped spur the advancement of collision-avoidance systems.
CRJ700 hit by helicopter as it aligned with approach to shorter National runway
Investigators are working to understand how a military helicopter collided with a MHIRJ CRJ700 while the regional jet was following a routine sequencing clearance to an alternative runway at Washington National.
Officials describe dark, cold and icy CRJ700 rescue operation
Rescue teams responding to the 29 January in-flight collision involving a PSA Airlines MHIRJ CRJ700 are battling incredibly challenging conditions as they scour the icy Potomac River at night for survivors.
PSA CRJ700 midair collision occurred in area frequented by military rotorcraft
The location where a PSA Airlines MHIRJ CRJ700 struck a US Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter on 29 January is a busy flight corridor for military rotorcraft.
American CEO Robert Isom travelling to Washington, DC in response to regional jet crash
American Airlines chief executive Robert Isom and other team members are travelling to Washington, DC in the aftermath of the midair collision between a military helicopter and a regional jet operated by an American subsidiary.
PSA Airlines rescue effort recalls Air Florida crash 43 years earlier
Images of rescue teams working the site where a PSA Airlines regional jet crashed on 29 January recall another incident 43 years earlier involving an Air Florida passenger jet that crashed several miles north.
Midair collision likely first fatal accident involving US airline since 2009 Colgan Air crash
The midair collision of an American Eagle-branded regional jet and a Sikorsky UH-60 helicopter near Washington, DC may be the first fatal crash involving a US airline since the 2009 crash of a Colgan Air-operated regional jet that killed 50 people.
PSA Airlines CRJ700 disappeared from flight-tracking website one-half mile from runway
The 29 January midair collision involving a PSA Airlines MHIRJ CRJ700 appears to have happened when the regional jet was flying at less than 1,000ft over the Potomac River.
PSA CRJ700 regional jet involved in midair collision near Washington, DC
A PSA Airlines regional jet and a US military Sikorsky H-60 helicopter collided near Ronald Reagan Washington National airport on 29 January, with reports saying both aircraft crashed.
Boeing working to bring 787 production rates higher this year
Boeing hopes by year-end to be producing seven 787s monthly, up from five monthly, though the company continues dealing with shortages of critical parts and with challenges related to certifying seats.
Search and rescue aircraft from US Coast Guard re-tasked to support migrant deportations
The Coast Guard says it has assigned fixed-wing transport aircraft to support President Donald Trump’s ongoing crackdown on migrants living in the USA illegally, with search and rescue platforms being used to ferry detainees to deportation processing centres in Texas and California.
BermudAir growing ‘thoughtfully’ with planned additions of two E190s
Start-up carrier BermudAir is charting an early growth plan with delivery of the airline’s third and fourth Embraer E190 regional jets expected in March.
’In-flight malfunction’ caused F-35 crash during Alaska training flight: USAF
Dramatic video has emerged of a catastrophic F-35 crash at Eielson AFB in Alaska.
Sikorsky begins ground testing with new Black Hawk engine
The trials mark the first time one of the new GE Aerospace T901 Improved Turbine Engines has been powered up inside a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk as part of a US Army plan to overhaul its fleet of the iconic utility helicopters.
How strike impact slowed Boeing’s defence output in 2024
An almost two-month-long strike by aerospace workers contributed to Boeing’s defence unit delivering a reduced total of 110 aircraft last year: down from 157 in 2023.
Lufthansa confirmed as 777-9 launch customer as Boeing works toward first delivery next year
Boeing confirms German carrier Lufthansa will be the launch operator for the in-certification 777-9, settling uncertainty about whether Emirates Airline might take the first of the type.
Boeing plans to wrap up rework in ‘shadow factories’ this year
Boeing has made progress winnowing its once-massive inventory of undelivered 737 Max and 787s and is now preparing to shutter so-called “shadow factories” in which it has been completing rework on the aircraft.
Pentagon reduces withholding on F-35 payments, citing Lockheed’s progress on TR-3 development
Although the much-delayed Technical Refresh 3 update to the F-35 stealth fighter remains a work in progress, manufacturer Lockheed Martin has made sufficient advances that the Pentagon is now only withholding $3.8 million per aircraft, down from $5 million previously.
Boeing prepares for 737 production rate hikes this year, with 42-monthly in sight
Boeing aims this year to hike 737 production to at least 38 jets monthly, and possibly as high as 42, if it receives permission to do so from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Worst of JetBlue’s GTF-related aircraft groundings yet to come
While East Coast leisure carrier JetBlue Airways is already among the US airlines most hindered by Pratt & Whitney’s geared turbofan (GTF) engine recall, company executives warn that related aircraft groundings will get worse before they get better.
US Air Force expands funding for sixth-generation engine development
Despite uncertainty over the future of its sixth-generation fighter development programme, the US Air Force is committing fresh funding toward a separate effort to develop a propulsion solution for “future air dominance platforms”.
Boom’s XB-1 achieves supersonic flight over Mojave desert
US aerospace firm Boom Supersonic’s experimental XB-1 aircraft has achieved a speed in excess of Mach 1 for the first time.
Boeing’s 2024 results bring six-year losses to $36bn, as CEO eyes ‘streamlining our portfolio’
Boeing’s six-year sequence of financial strife continued in 2024 with an $11.8 billion loss, bringing the airframer’s total losses since 2019 and the grounding of the 737 Max to $36 billion.
As Boeing prepares to reveal scope of 2024 loss, analysts see glimmers of optimism
Though Boeing is poised on 28 January to report a massive loss for 2024, some analysts suspect the company’s financial and operational condition will improve as 2025 progresses.
Lockheed delivers final MC-130J to US Air Force
Aircraft number 5994 arrived at Kirtland AFB on 14 January after rolling off Lockheed Martin’s production line in Marietta, Georgia, in 2024.
Norse to open another transatlantic connection to Los Angeles
Long-haul budget carrier Norse Atlantic Airways is opening a new connection to Los Angeles, from the Greek capital Athens.
Vertical Aerospace raises $90m by issuing 15 million more shares
Vertical Aerospace has closed a deal under which it raised $90 million in proceeds, generating cash needed to help fund continued development of its VX4 electric air taxi.
US network carriers plan for ‘fully deployed’ regional fleets in 2025
Executives with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines said on recent earnings calls that they are dialling up utilisation of regional aircraft flown by feeder carriers.
Lockheed to upgrade F-22 fleet with infrared threat-detection sensors
The latest version of Lockheed’s Tactical Infrared Search and Track system will provide passive threat detection capability to the stealthy F-22 air superiority fighter, in a low-observable configuration rather than a pod.
Pilot's limited familiarity with seized Cuban An-2 led to power loss and levee crash
US investigators believe a Cuban-registered Antonov An-2 crashed while attempting to land on a levee, after a pilot with limited understanding of the aircraft failed to activate oil-cooling shutters, causing the engine to overheat.
Alaska Air Group turns strong profit in year defined by Max 9 grounding, Hawaiian purchase
In a year defined by a roughly month-long grounding of its Boeing 737 Max 9s and the costly acquisition of leisure carrier Hawaiian Airlines, Seattle-based Alaska Air Group posted a roughly $400 million profit.
Boeing reports steep Q4 loss, still tracking for first 777-9 delivery in 2026
The company on 23 January disclosed preliminary 2024 financial results, saying its fourth-quarter loss reflects charges of nearly $3 billion against its commercial and defence aircraft programmes.
Lufthansa Group plans Denver’s first scheduled A380 service
The German airline is planning to fly an Airbus A380 between Munich and Denver on a seasonal route starting in late April and continuing through September.
Boeing receives 737 fuselage for first US Air Force E-7A Wedgetail
The 737 fuselage made by Spirit AeroSystems was delivered to Boeing’s factory in Renton, Washington on 22 January, where it will be assembled into the first prototype of the US Air Force’s E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control jet.
American targeting 200-jet long-haul fleet by 2029
American Airlines forecasts its fleet of long-haul aircraft will increase from about 125 to 200 jets – including about 40 A321XLRs – by the end of the decade.
Supply chain troubles weigh on GE Aerospace’s engine output as progress comes in ‘fits and starts’
Material shortages and other supply chain problems held back GE Aerospace’s engine production last year, with the company delivering 10% fewer CFM International Leap turbofans than it did in 2023.
Trump Administration orders military aircraft to support border crackdown
The Pentagon says fixed-wing transports will be used to repatriate some 5,000 undocumented migrants detained by US customs officials, while additional rotary-wing assets and crews will be deployed to the US-Mexico border to support monitoring efforts.
Breeze records first full-quarter operational profit as network matures
Salt Lake City-based Breeze said the milestone comes as its US network matures, and is partially attributable to holiday travel demand overcoming the dampening effect of the recent US presidential election on bookings.
Roughly two-thirds of United’s 2024 delays caused by ATC issues
United Airlines struggled significantly with air traffic control-related delays at its congested airport hubs last year as the Federal Aviation Administration still lacks sufficient numbers of controllers, particularly in the Northeast USA.
USAF F-15Es with advanced electronic warfare systems arrive at UK base
BAE Systems says its Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) provides the fourth-generation F-15 ability to penetrate and manoeuvre into battle spaces protected by modern integrated air-defence systems.
Textron Aviation’s Q4 profit slips amid strike, while Denali certification continues
Textron Aviation’s fourth-quarter 2024 profit sunk by nearly one-half year on year, due largely to a machinists’ strike that halted production and held up aircraft deliveries.
Boeing needs another regulatory exemption prior to 737 Max 7 and 10 certification
Boeing is seeking temporary regulatory exemptions for a stall-management yaw damper (SMYD) system on the 737 Max 7 and Max 10, saying a classification change left it unable to demonstrate that the systems meet airworthiness standards.
United’s three busiest-ever operational days cap highly profitable year
United’s strong fourth-quarter performance continues the trend of the “Big Two” – Delta Air Lines and United – raking in profits while fellow major US carriers American Airlines and Southwest Airlines lag behind.
Head of US Coast Guard sacked in part over helicopter fleet issues
Among his first acts as the newly-sworn in US president, Donald Trump dismissed the commandant of the US Coast Guard, with long-standing issues around rotary-wing procurement cited as being among the causes.
Nordic ‘e-fuel’ producer Norsk lands investment from Boeing
Boeing has invested an undisclosed sum in Norwegian fuel developer Norsk e-Fuel as part of an effort to promote increased production and availability of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
SkyAlyne signs for three new-build Dash 8-400s in support of Canadian trainer recapitalisation effort
The joint venture of CAE and KF Aerospace has signed a contract with airframer De Havilland Canada to acquire three Dash 8-400 aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) programme, which covers 71 new turboprops and helicopters.
Air Wisconsin plans to let capacity purchase agreement with American expire
US regional carrier Air Wisconsin is winding down its capacity purchase agreement with American Airlines as it initiates a strategic shift toward charter and essential air service flying.
Boeing resumes 777-9 flights after four-month halt
One of Boeing’s 777-9 test aircraft returned to the skies on 16 January, ending a four-month grounding of the 777-9 test fleet and indicating some progress in Boeing’s effort to conclude the type’s long-delayed certification programme.
Spirit Airlines secures $300m financing infusion for post-bankruptcy operations
US discounter Spirit Airlines has secured an additional $300 million in financing from debt holders as it prepares to exit Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings.
Pilot’s control input caused United 767 hard landing at Houston: NTSB
”Improper control column inputs” by a first officer caused a United Airlines Boeing 767-300 to slam onto a Houston runway with sufficient force to significantly damage its fuselage in 2023.
Daher confirms plans to assemble TBMs and Kodiaks in Florida
French aerospace company Daher is one step closer to assembling TBM and Kodiak turboprops at its manufacturing site in Florida after securing a new lease on the facility.
Anduril selects Ohio for company’s first large-scale production site dedicated to autonomous weapons
Located at Rickenbacker International airport near Columbus, Anduril’s “Arsenal-1” facility will be the company’s first attempt at reaching what it calls “hyper-scale” production capacity of delivering tens of thousands of autonomous weapon systems annually.
Airlines for America chief Nicholas Calio to retire at year end
Nicholas Calio will retire from his position as chief executive of Airlines for America (A4A) at the end of this year, concluding a 14-year run of leading an industry advocacy organisation for US cargo and passenger carriers.
FAA to order 787 seat-track inspections due to manufacturing ‘escapement’
The Federal Aviation Administration plans to order airlines to inspect Boeing 787s because the jets might have defective seat-track hardware due to manufacturing errors.
FAA proposes 737NG and 757 directive after overhead monitor ‘detached’ during hard landing
The USA’s aviation regulator will require airlines to replace overhead video monitors in Boeing 737NGs and 757s after the equipment detached during a hard landing.
Icelandair expands Southwest connectivity tie-up to two more US airports
Icelandair’s co-operation pact with US budget operator Southwest Airlines is to expand to additional connecting points beyond the initial proposal of Baltimore.
Delta adds longtime Walmart executive Judith McKenna to board of directors
Delta Air Lines has appointed former Walmart International chief Judith McKenna as the newest member of its board of directors.
US government sues Southwest for delayed flights, fines Frontier
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has sued Southwest Airlines for allegedly operating numerous “chronically delayed” flights in violation of federal laws prohibiting deceptive practices.
US Air Force delays T-7A trainer production decision until 2026
The service has delayed approving low-rate initial production for the new Boeing single-engined trainer jet until 2026, but also plans to purchase four more test aircraft in 2025.
Frontier’s break from ULCC model continues with free seat upgrades for top-tier loyalty members
Ultra-low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines is continuing along the “premiumisation” pathway by rolling out free seat upgrades for its highest-tier loyalty programme members.
Operators of 757s advised to replace older landing-gear hydraulic hoses to avoid fatigue risk
Boeing 757 operators are being strongly advised to ensure flexible hydraulic hoses in the landing-gear are maintained and regularly replaced, after instances of hydraulic failure.
Porter and Avolon sign sale-leaseback deal for four P&W engines
Porter Aircraft Leasing, a subsidiary of Canada’s Porter Aviation Holdings, has agreed to the sale-leaseback of four Pratt & Whitney engines with international lessor Avolon.
US carrier Silver Airways aims to emerge from restructuring in first quarter
The Hollywood, Florida-based operator recently told FlightGlobal that it plans to complete the process in the first quarter but declined to be more specific, citing “pending proceedings” with the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Watch cockpit footage from military aircraft battling California wildfires
In addition to the array of civil firefighting aircraft operating on the frontline of the historic wildfires in the Los Angeles area, military aircraft equipped with firefighting systems have also been deployed to support the effort.
Boeing’s 2024 orders and deliveries slipped as Airbus widened edge
Boeing’s commercial aircraft order and delivery figures tumbled last year as the US company worked through a manufacturing crisis.
USA’s SAF tax credit in limbo as environmental groups push back, warn of ‘greenwashing’
The biofuel industry is criticising the administration of Joe Biden for failing to finalise provisions related to a new tax credit for so-called sustainable aviation fuel.
Denmark eyes Greenland airport upgrades to support F-35 fighter deployment
Amid ominous messaging from US president-elect Donald Trump about the need to control Greenland for national security purposes, Copenhagen says it will expand the Danish defence presence on the autonomous Arctic island, including by upgrading a former air base to support Denmark’s new Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighters.
Spirit AeroSystems divests composites producer Fiber Materials
Wichita aerostructures supplier Spirit AeroSystems has sold Fiber Materials, a manufacturer of high-temperature materials for defence applications, to aerospace firm Tex Tech Industries for $165 million.
Israel’s Arkia chartering A330neo for New York flights
Israeli leisure carrier Arkia has indicated that it will use Airbus A330neo twinjets on new services between Tel Aviv and New York JFK.
Aerial firefighters descend on Los Angeles amid ‘extremely challenging’ conditions
Aerial firefighting companies have rushed aircraft to Southern California to battle a wind-whipped inferno that has burned neighborhoods to the ground and that by some estimates could be the USA’s costliest blaze.
Southeast storm forcing major US carriers to cancel hundreds of flights
Severe winter weather is disrupting airline operations in the Southeast USA, with major carriers American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines cancelling hundreds of flights on 10 January.
US government sanctions president of Venezuelan airline Conviasa
The US government has slapped economic sanctions on a top Venezuelan aviation official who also heads state-owned airline Conviasa, part of a broader move targeting officials the USA deems as enabling the illegitimate government of president Nicolas Maduro.
Stratolaunch to expand Talon-A reusable hypersonic vehicle into missile-defence testing
A $24.7 million million contract from the US Missile Defense Agency will fund expansion of flight capabilities for the Stratolaunch Talon-A, a reusable rocket-powered vehicle that aims to provide a test platform for hypersonic flight technologies.
Pentagon to outfit F-15s with long-range missile seen as critical for Indo-Pacific conflict
The Pentagon plans to launch a test campaign to integrate Lockheed Martin’s Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile with the US Air Force’s land-based F-15E and F-15EX strike fighters, after previously cancelling a similar effort for the service’s B-52 bombers.
Southwest CFO Romo to retire in continuation of management shake-up
Southwest Airlines’ longtime chief financial officer (CFO) Tammy Romo will leave the company on 1 April, a move coming as the Dallas-based airline progresses with revamping its business following several years of lagging profits.
FAA orders 767 landing gear inspections
The Federal Aviation Administration has mandated that airlines inspect Boeing 767s to prevent an issue that could cause the type’s main landing gear to collapse.
Tyre blow-out caused Dash 8’s gear collapse at Halifax
Canadian accident investigators say a blown tyre caused a 28 December incident at Halifax that led to the collapse of a De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 turboprop’s main landing gear.
Delta commits to test new Airbus wing designs
Delta Air Lines is to collaborate with Airbus to develop new aerospace technologies, including working with the airframer’s UpNext innovation unit and through a programme to evaluate efficiencies gained when large jets fly in formation.
US Air Force winds down HH-60G Pave Hawk operations
The service logged its final active service flight with the venerable Sikorsky combat search and rescue helicopter, as deliveries of the new HH-60W Jolly Green II Combat Rescue Helicopter ramp up.
Southwest executes sale-leaseback deal involving dozens of older 737s
Southwest Airlines has entered a sale-leaseback transaction involving 36 of its Boeing 737-800s with US lessor Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management.
Embraer hits goal with 206 aircraft deliveries last year
Despite nagging industrywide supply chain troubles, Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer met its 2024 aircraft delivery goal, handing over 206 jets last year.
US Air Force approves full production of F-15 electronic countermeasures system
The $615 million contract will move the BAE Systems Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System into full-rate production, equipping the US Air Force’s Boeing F-15Es and F-15EXs with the latest electronic warfare countermeasures system.
Mesa to raise $230m with sale-leaseback of 18 E175s to United
United Airlines has agreed to purchase 18 Embraer 175 regional jets from partner Mesa Airlines in a sale-leaseback deal that will raise some $230 million for the regional carrier.
Air Incheon outlines US route expansion as it absorbs 747 fleet through Asiana deal
Korean cargo carrier Air Incheon is seeking authorisation to open services to several US destinations from mid-2025.
Washington targets more than 130 Chinese firms as military suppliers
The list features numerous subsidiaries of the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China that actively produce fighters, bombers, rotorcraft and trainers for the Chinese military, alongside commercial airframer Comac.
How did airline safety rank in 2024, after high-profile December losses?
Last year saw more airline fatal accidents and fatalities worldwide than any 12-month period since 2018, raising the question as to whether a decade or so of safety performance improvement has begun to reverse.
New leadership in Washington could delay Boeing’s revised 737 Max guilty plea
Boeing and the US Department of Justice (DOJ) confirm they are revising a proposal under which the company would plead guilty to federal fraud charges, a move coming after a federal judge rejected an initial plea deal.
Government auditors uphold Sierra Nevada’s contract win for new US Army intelligence jet
Competitor L3Harris had appealed the US Army’s decision to award Sierra Nevada a nearly $1 billion contract to develop the new business-jet-based Hades intelligence aircraft.
Rotor Technologies aims to shake up crop dusting with ground-controlled Robinsons
Rotor Technologies is working through regulatory approval of a remotely piloted helicopter based on Robinson Helicopter’s R44, with hopes of tapping into the aerial crop-dusting market.
US Air Force tests MQ-9 operations from austere runways
While the multi-role General Atomics uncrewed aircraft typically requires a paved runway for take-off and landing, recent US Air Force exercises demonstrated the MQ-9’s ability to operate from a dirt landing strip.
USAF to re-open competition for Next-Generation Ejection Seat fleet modernisation
The US Air Force (USAF) is re-evaluating its procurement strategy for installing replacement ejection seats across multiple combat aircraft types, with a pending new request for proposals “to allow additional companies to compete for the contract”.
One year after 737 door-plug blow-out, Boeing says safety overhaul is working
One year ago, an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9’s mid-cabin door-plug blew out during flight, leaving passengers facing a gaping hole in the side of the jet while the pilots successfully landed the stricken jetliner.
Fatal engine-ingestion probe cites possible impairment from medical conditions and cannabis
US investigators have determined that a ramp agent experienced cognitive impairment before a fatal engine-ingestion accident at Montgomery, adding that she suffered from multiple sclerosis and had used a cannabis product before her shift.
Breeze tracking to secure international authority in first quarter
Chief executive David Neeleman says US start-up carrier Breeze Airways is on track to launch its first international flights early in 2025.
American’s winter holiday operations disrupted by IT-related nationwide ground stop
American Airlines’ operations were disrupted by a nationwide ground stop on the morning of 24 December, the height of the winter holiday air travel period.
Textron delivers prototype reconnaissance platform to US Army
The Textron Systems MK 4.8 HQ Aerosonde is a finalist in the US Army’s Future Tactical Uncrewed Aerial System competition, along with the Griffon Aerospace Valiant, to provide tactical level ground combat troops with a new reconnaissance platform.
Cavorite eVTOL developer Horizon obtains funding injection
Canadian eVTOL developer Horizon Aircraft has obtained an $8.4 million funding injection from a strategic investor.
Glimpse Wisk’s under-assembly autonomous air taxi prototype
Wisk Aero has shared new images of the first full-scale prototype of its autonomous Gen6 air taxi.
US air taxi start-ups ramping certification and manufacturing efforts
A trio of leading US air taxi companies moved forward this week on plans to certificate, manufacture and commercialise a new class of electric aircraft.
Pentagon orders fleetwide inspection of Osprey proprotor gearboxes after latest safety incident
More than a year after a fatal V-22 crash killed eight US Air Force personnel, a recent “near-crash” has prompted the Pentagon to order fleet-wide inspections of a problematic component, while plans for a long-term mechanical fix remain uncertain.
Air Canada grows A220 order book by signing for five more jets
Air Canada has signed for five additional Airbus A220-300s on top of an already-sizeable order of incoming single-aisle jets.
NASA completes first ever aircraft accident investigation on another planet
The US space agency and manufacturer AeroVironment will soon release a detailed review of the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter’s final flight, which came at the end of three years of operations that saw 72 sorties and 2h of flight on the Red Planet.
Boom nears first supersonic flight with XB-1 test jet
Boom Supersonic is inching closer to achieving supersonic flight with its XB-1 demonstrator as test-flights continue over the Southern California desert.
BAE details latest test success with high-flying PHASA-35
BAE Systems has detailed its latest series of test flights using the Prismatic-developed PHASA-35, as it promotes the ultra-long-endurance type for operational use from 2026.
Northrop wins $3.5 billion to lead E-6B replacement effort
The US Navy has awarded Northrop Grumman a $3.5 billion contract for the E-130J, the service’s new command and control aircraft for its ballistic missile submarine force.
US Air Force flies last T-7A test aircraft ahead of low-rate initial production decision
The fifth example of the Boeing T-7A Red Hawk jet trainer took off from Boeing’s fighter delivery centre at St. Louis Lambert International airport on a customer acceptance flight, with the commander of the US Air Force’s 416th Test Squadron at the controls.
Boeing reactivates 767 and 777 production following end of strike
Boeing has resumed production of two widebody programmes in the Pacific Northwest following the end of strike action by its machinists’ union last month.
Bell picks Fort Worth site for new FLRAA parts manufacturing plant
Bell is to establish a new component manufacturing facility in support of the US Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) programme in Fort Worth, Texas.
Cessna SkyCourier cleared by Transport Canada for potential 'remote' operations
Textron Aviation has secured type certification of its Cessna SkyCourier utility turboprop from Transport Canada Civil Aviation.
Hermeus completes ground testing ahead of Quarterhorse Mk 1 first flight
The US hypersonic flight start-up is preparing to launch a test campaign for its Quarterhorse Mk 1 vehicle, a subsonic fixed-wing jet that will be used to evaluate systems intended for use on subsequent supersonic and hypersonic Quarterhorse models.
Air Canada plans to become C$30bn revenue company by 2028
The Star Alliance carrier plans to reach C$30 billion in annual revenue in four years and to exceed that figure by decade’s end.
Pentagon reports nothing anomalous in rash of drone sightings over US airspace
Fuelled by rampant speculation on the internet, US law enforcement agencies have received more than 5,000 reports of unknown drones operating over airspace along the Eastern Seaboard in recent weeks, with most turning out to be commercial aircraft or hobbyist drones.
Honeywell explores potentially spinning off aerospace segment
Honeywell is exploring separating Honeywell Aerospace Technologies into a standalone business, under pressure from minority stakeholder Elliott Investment Management.
P&W gains US approval for PW1100G-powered A321XLR
Pratt & Whitney’s PW1100G geared-turbofan engine has been approved by the US Federal Aviation Administration to power the Airbus A321XLR.
Rolls-Royce completes critical design review for new B-52J engine
Engine maker Rolls-Royce says its new F130 turbofan successfully cleared critical design review, a key programmatic step in the effort to modernise the US Air Force’s iconic B-52 long-range bombers with new propulsion and improved onboard systems.
Gear-collapse 737-400 had diverted to Mirabel after flap issue
Canadian investigators have disclosed that a Boeing 737-400 crew had been experiencing a flap problem before the aircraft suffered a main landing-gear collapse at Montreal.
Air Transat parent secures C$34m compensation package for P&W engine woes
Canada’s Transat AT reports a profitable fiscal fourth-quarter boosted by a C$34 million ($25 million) compensation agreement with geared turbofan (GTF) engine maker Pratt & Whitney.
Archer teams with Anduril to develop hybrid-electric defence platform
Having long explored potential defence applications for its in-development Midnight air taxi, US start-up Archer Aviation has formed a partnership with Anduril to “jointly develop” a hybrid-electric aircraft for military purposes.
Air Canada to offer free wi-fi in 2025
Air Canada is set to become the latest North American airline to offer free wi-fi access to passengers, disclosing on 12 December plans to begin rolling out the service in May.
Iberia to co-operate with budget carrier Level as it emerges as separate airline
Spanish carrier Iberia and budget long-haul operator Level will initially co-operate on US services following Level’s establishment as a standalone carrier.
Proposal to strip ATC from FAA reappears ahead of second Trump term
A renewed push to separate air traffic control (ATC) from the Federal Aviation Administration arose again in Washington on 12 December, as lawmakers consider means of addressing the problem of aging ATC technology.
US carriers expect to receive first A321XLRs next year as certifications progress
US airlines are gearing up to acquire their first Airbus A321XLRs, after the Federal Aviation Administration recently certificated the variant of the 4,700nm (8,704km)-range jet powered by CFM International Leap-1A turbofans.
FAA administrator Michael Whitaker to step down in January
On 12 December, the agency said FAA administrator Michael Whitaker, who held the post since October 2023, will step down on 20 January, the same day president-elect Donald Trump is scheduled to be sworn into office.
Sikorsky to demonstrate autonomous Black Hawk for US Marine Corps
Sikorsky will fly its Optionally Piloted Vehicle variant of the UH-60 Black Hawk for the US Marine Corps throughout 2025, showcasing the potential to convert existing rotorcraft into uncrewed, autonomous aircraft capable of executing resupply and medical evacuation missions.
Congress orders review of US air-to-air missile inventory needs
A provision in the draft legislation covering 2025 Pentagon operations would require the US Air Force and US Navy to assess their inventory requirements for air-to-air missiles, including possible extension of AIM-120 AMRAAM production beyond 2028.
Lawmakers move to cut US F-35 purchases over ‘long-standing’ sustainment issues
A provision in wide-ranging defence legislation covering Pentagon operations for 2025 would limit new acquisitions of the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter to 48 examples until concerns about availability rates and aircraft sustainment are addressed.
Challenger wheel fire followed crew's attempt to burn excess fuel while braking
US investigators believe a fire which badly damaged a Bombardier Challenger 650 last month occurred after the crew attempted to use braking to burn excess fuel prior to departure.
Southwest 737 and small aircraft involved in runway incursion at Long Beach
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating another runway incursion, this one involving a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-700 and a single-engined Diamond DA40 at Long Beach on 19 October.
Alaska Air to fly from Seattle to Asia in 2025 as Hawaiian integration takes hold
Alaska Air Group plans to launch its first flights from the US West Coast to Asia in 2025, part of a broader network shift the carrier says will strengthen its hubs and make it a more formidable nationwide player.
Boeing’s backlog inched up in November amid new orders and slow delivery pace
Boeing received net orders for 50 jets in November thanks partly to a new 737 Max commitment from Alaska Airlines and a deal for the latest batch of KC-46A tankers from the US government.
Boeing restarts 737 production
Boeing has restarted 737 production and intends within days to resume assembly of 767s and 777s, saying it is bringing its Pacific Northwest facilities back online after halting production for nearly three months due to a machinists’ strike.
Boeing aims to fully resume Seattle-area production before year-end as safety review continues
Boeing aims this month to fully resume final assembly of commercial aircraft in the Pacific Northwest, having so far held off from rebooting the lines after machinists ended a 53-day-strike in early November.
Pentagon again grounds Osprey fleet after recent ‘near-crash’
The US miltiary’s fleet of Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey tiltrotors are grounded for the second time this year after what the Pentagon describes as a “near-crash” in November.
NASA head Bill Nelson flies aboard Electra’s blown-lift demonstrator
In what start-up Electra calls a first for the advanced air mobility (AAM) sector, the head of a US government agency has flown aboard the company’s Goldfinch EL2 demonstrator.
Crisalion secures prospective order for 20 Integrity air taxis from UrbanLink
Start-up operator UrbanLink Air Mobility has tentatively signed for a score of Crisalion Mobility’s in-development Integrity aircraft, adding to what aspires to become a sizeable and mixed fleet of electric aircraft.
Regulators approve new ‘more-durable’ Leap-1A high-pressure turbine blades
US and European aviation regulators have certificated new high-pressure turbine blades that CFM International says will help address durability troubles with Leap-1A turbofans.
Boeing lands Lot 3 contract for US Army Block II Chinooks
The deal for three rotorcraft comes as Boeing and the US Army are negotiating a full-rate production deal for the latest version of the CH-47F, which could see hundreds of orders for Boeing.
United seeks fresh connection to China amid frosty US relations
United Airlines is seeking to bolster its transpacific dominance with a newly proposed route to China from the West Coast of the USA.
Commander of USAF bomber force sees need to re-evaluate B-21 fleet plans
A senior US Air Force leader suggests that it would be prudent to consider obtaining significantly more Northrop Grumman B-21 bombers given the existing nature of threats.
Cracked power levers prompt FAA to order sweeping Cirrus SR inspections
The Federal Aviation Administration has issued sweeping inspection requirements after learning that power levers in nearly 30 Cirrus SR-series single-engined aircraft had developed cracks.
Judge rejects Boeing plea deal as 737 Max fraud case continues
A federal judge on 5 December rejected Boeing’s guilty plea with the US Department of Justice (DOJ), a move that throws fresh uncertainty over the company’s 737 Max fraud case and could require Boeing negotiate a new deal.
Spirit alleges that rival airlines seek its demise with stock de-listing imminent
A Spirit Airlines executive argues that major US carriers have sought to put the discounter “out of business” as it faces imminent de-listing from the New York Stock Exchange.
Outgoing US Air Force leaders defer sixth-generation fighter decision to Trump administration
After promising for months to deliver a new strategy for the next generation of new aircraft development, civilian leaders of the US Air Force are deferring a decision on the service’s sixth-generation fighter programme to the incoming administration of Donald Trump.
Southwest’s fourth-quarter fortunes looking up as ‘tactical’ changes start paying off
Southwest Airlines is the latest US carrier to raise fourth-quarter financial expectations thanks in part to the early returns of a sweeping plan to overhaul its business model.
Lockheed names head of integrated fighters business to run Skunk Works
OJ Sanchez, a former US Air Force F-22 pilot, will take over the secretive Skunk Works advanced projects division after heading Lockheed’s integrated fighter group.
Bell accelerates SPRINT design through windtunnel test phase
Bell has completed windtunnel tests of the Stop/Fold rotor system it is developing for a future high-speed vertical lift aircraft under a US Department of Defense-backed project.
Raytheon completes key review of new Super Hornet EW system
Raytheon has completed a key design review for its prospective new electronic warfare (EW) system for the US Navy’s Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
Airline tie-up takes shape as Alaska and Hawaiian intertwine in San Francisco
The integration of Hawaiian Airlines into Alaska Air Group is in full swing as the carrier now shares space with Alaska Airlines at San Francisco International airport.
Gogo completes acquisition of Satcom Direct
In-flight data provider Gogo completed its planned acquisition of once-competitor Satcom Direct on 4 December and named Satcom’s former president Chris Moore as CEO.
Sierra Nevada begins modifying first 747-8 for ‘Doomsday’ jet replacement programme
Known as the Survivable Airborne Operations Centre, or SAOC, the new fleet of Boeing 747-derivative jets are intended to replace the US Air Force’s Boeing E-4B Nightwatch aircraft, which can serve as an airborne platform for commanding the American nuclear arsenal.
JetBlue’s end-of-year forecast brightens as operational performance improves
JetBlue Airways’ view of its fourth quarter financial results has brightened based on stronger-than-expected bookings and operational performance.
TAP to open new US routes from Lisbon and Porto
Portuguese Star Alliance carrier TAP is to open two new transatlantic services next year, operating to Los Angeles and Boston.
RAF, Skunk Works collaborate to trial transatlantic F-35 data transfer
Lockheed Martin and the Royal Air Force (RAF) have conducted a claimed world-first test during which live data was relayed from an F-35 stealth fighter airborne in the USA to a UK-developed command and control (C2) system on the other side of the Atlantic.
Trump’s tariff bluster raises alarm within Canada’s aerospace industry
Threats by president-elect Donald Trump to slap 25% tariffs on Canadian imports have caught the attention of Canada’s aerospace industry, which depends heavily on sales of aircraft and components to US buyers.
US and French specialists to develop A319 as aerial firefighting tanker
US-based aerial firefighting specialist Neptune Aviation is looking to the Airbus A319 as a complement to its British Aerospace 146 tanker fleet.
Lockheed ‘getting close’ on finalised contract for F-35 Lot 18 and 19 production
The defence giant’s chief financial officer says the company has secured a “handshake” agreement with the Pentagon on terms for the next round of F-35 orders, with a firm contract coming potentially by end-of-year.
Joby CFO Matt Field to depart air taxi developer
Joby Aviation’s chief financial officer Matt Field will depart the electric aircraft developer in favour of a position with Oshkosh Corporation before year’s end.
Bombardier and Honeywell settle legal dispute over turbofan engine prices
Canadian business jet maker Bombardier and US manufacturer Honeywell have settled a long-running lawsuit regarding engine prices and will embark together on a new “strategic agreement” to upgrade existing Bombardier platforms and supply future aircraft.
USAF conducts test drop of new Stand-in Attack Weapon
The US Air Force has completed the first successful drop of the Stand-in Attack Weapon from a Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter.
SkyAlyne signs G120TP, PC-21 trainer contracts in support of Canadian FAcT programme
Grob Aircraft and Pilatus have been awarded contracts to supply a combined 42 new turboprop-powered aircraft for use as part of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s future pilot training system.
Absence of El Al competition spurs hi-tech firms to plan 777 charter to Newark
Absence of competition on Israeli-US routes has spurred a group of hi-tech corporate interests to set up an alternative air transport operation for the first quarter of 2025.
FAA not taking immediate steps to address 737 Max engine smoke concern
US regulator the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will take no immediate action to address a smoke-related issue involving the CFM International Leap-1B engines that power the Boeing 737 Max.
US Air Force seeks new ‘runway independent’ regional airlifter
The Next Generation Intra-theater Airlift programme aims to enhance the air force’s existing airlift capability with a regional logistics aircraft able to operate without ground infrastructure like a maintained runway.
The electric aircraft developers with connections to bankrupt battery maker Northvolt
Bankrupt battery maker Northvolt had relationships with some of the best-known electric aviation start-ups but whether its financial troubles will impact its aerospace ambitions remains unclear.
Spirit Airlines warns of ability to remain ‘going concern’ as restructuring continues
Spirit Airlines, which recently entered bankruptcy court protection, has “substantial doubt” about its ability to continue operating during the next year due to steep financial losses amid difficult market conditions.
Bombardier delivers first Global 6500 for US Army’s Hades spy jet programme
Although the award to prime contractor Sierra Nevada has been challenged, Bombardier is moving forward with the delivery of Global 6500 airframes for the High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System.
Which types left use during our latest World Air Forces review?
We detail some of the most notable national fleet retirements recorded in the 12 months since we published our last World Air Forces directory at the end of 2023.
Etihad includes Atlanta, Hong Kong and Taipei in 10-route network expansion
Middle Eastern carrier Etihad Airways has included the US gateway of Atlanta, and the Asian cities of Hong Kong and Taipei, in a newly-unveiled network expansion.
NTSB investigating 737 Max smoke incident amid Leap-1B ‘load reduction device’ scrutiny
An engine-related concern involving Boeing’s 737 Max has caught the attention of both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and a Federal Aviation Administration panel, which has reportedly recommended new pilot procedures and a change to software that manages the engine bleed air system.
Lockheed uses L-39 and two L-29s to test air-to-air combat with autonomous fighters
In a series of flight tests, Lockheed Martin’s secretive Skunk Works unit simulated an offensive counter-air mission where an airborne, human battle manager aboard an Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros directed two autonomous Aero Vodochody L-29 Delfin jets, which worked together to defeat two mock enemy fighters using simulated mission systems and weapons.
Air Marshall Islands signs for two Cessna SkyCourier turboprops
Textron Aviation has secured an agreeement to deliver a pair of Cessna SkyCourier turboprops to Air Marshall Islands.
Sierra Nevada completes first flight of Athena surveillance aircraft for US Army
Built on a Bombardier Global 6500, the Athena platform will offer an interim intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance solution to the US Army while it awaits delivery of an in-development long-range aircraft called Hades.
Boeing wins $2.4 billion deal for 15 KC-46As
Boeing has secured a $2.4 billion US government contract to build 15 KC-46A tankers, adding to the number of contracted orders for the 767 derivative.
GE Aerospace tests hybrid-electric turboshaft engine for US Army
The engine-maker says the successful demonstration involved a GE Aerospace CT7 turboshaft engine combined with internally-produced electric machine and power electronics.
Manufacturing issue prompts FAA to propose 787 stabiliser inspections
The Federal Aviation Administration intends to require airlines to inspect horizontal stabiliser hardware on Boeing 787s due to components possibly being assembled incorrectly by the company during manufacturing.
How the global military fleet shapes up in our 2025 World Air Forces review
Our annual World Air Forces directory – published in association with Embraer – details the military aircraft fleets of 161 nations, and analyses the main events of the last 12 months.
Spirit Airlines expects stock to be de-listed from US exchange amid Chapter 11 proceedings
Days after disclosing plans to restructure through Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Spirit Airlines says it expects to be de-listed from the New York Stock Exchange.
Developer Natilus unveils 200-seat aircraft concept to challenge tube-and-wing supremacy
Southern California start-up Natilus has emerged with a blended wing-body aircraft design it believes will upend decades of tube-and-wing dominance in the commercial jet market.
Royal Jordanian to open new US gateway route next year
Royal Jordanian Airlines is to open a new transatlantic service to Washington DC ahead of the summer season next year.
Walsh sees US carriers hopeful of 'lighter touch' on industry from Trump administration
IATA chief executive Willie Walsh believes US president-elect Donald Trump’s previous support of the airline industry during Covid and likely lighter regulatory touch mean US airline leaders are generally “net positive” about the incoming administration.
International travel surges through holidays as US airlines kick off winter season
Upcoming holiday air travel is likely to break records in the USA as major airlines prepare for the operationally challenging winter season.
GE to begin modelling open-fan engine integration in 2025
GE Aerospace in 2025 plans to use two of the world’s fastest computers, both at US-government-funded research facilities, to study how its open-fan engine concept will integrate with an aircraft’s wings and other structures.
Nose gear collapses during runway excursion of Prime Air 767 operated by Cargojet
The nose gear of a Prime Air-branded Boeing 767-300ER operated by Cargojet Airways collapsed on 19 November after the aircraft left the runway at Vancouver International airport.
Embraer shifts possible development of fuel-cell aircraft back five years
Developing novel propulsion technologies has proven more challenging than expected, leaving Embraer’s chief engineer now predicting his team would need until 2040 to bring a hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered aircraft to market.
Northrop delivers first Stand-in Attack Weapon for F-35 air defence suppression mission
The new Stand-in Attack Weapon is being positioned as a successor to Northrop’s AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile Extended Range, purpose built for the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter to hunt and destroy critical air defence assets.
Turkey’s BBN seeks approval to operate US services
Turkish operator BBN Airlines is seeking authorisation to open both passenger and cargo services to US destinations.
Long-range bomber use in Taiwan war could spur Chinese nuclear strike: Rand
A think tank report suggests that US long-range strikes, including the use of strategic bombers, could push China to cross the nuclear threshold in the event of a conflict between the two nations.
Boeing names new head of Phantom Works advanced development unit
Colin Miller will take over the struggling airframer’s secretive military research and development unit after previously serving as the head of engineering within Northrop Grumman’s aeronautics business.
Lockheed begins assembling US Navy’s first E-130J nuclear-missile command aircraft
Factory work is underway in Marietta, Georgia on the first of three C-130J airframes that Lockheed Martin will deliver to the US Navy as E-130s – a new type meant to replace ageing Boeing E-6B Mercury airborne command post jets.
Spirit Airlines eyes Q1 exit after filing for ‘streamlined’ Chapter 11 restructuring
Struggling US budget carrier Spirit Airlines has filed for a pre-arranged Chapter 11 restructuring process, from which it hopes to emerge in the first quarter of next year having already secured investment commitments from existing bondholders.
Canada announces second operating base for new tanker fleet
Ottawa will station a portion of its new Airbus A330-based aerial refuelling fleet at Edmonton International airport in Alberta province, expanding upon the existing tanker base in Trenton, Ontario.
Boeing appoints former Vanguard chief Tim Buckley to board of directors amid financial turbulence
Boeing has appointed to its board of directors former The Vanguard Group chief executive Tim Buckley, a move coming as the US airframer grapples with a cash crunch related to a weeks-long production pause that ended earlier this month.
US Navy reveals name for new T-54 trainer following order for 26 additional aircraft
The twin-engined turboprop is replacing the aged Beechcraft T-44C used by the navy as a training platform for multi-engined and tiltrotor pilot candidates.
Commuter carrier Cape Air adorns Islander aircraft with Caribbean-themed livery
US commuter carrier Cape Air has revealed a Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander adorned with a colourful Caribbean-themed livery to celebrate its 35th year of operations.
Watch Beta fly the first Alia CX300 electric aircraft off its production line
US electric aircraft developer Beta Technologies on 13 November completed the first flight of the innaugural Alia CX300 aircraft built on its new production line in South Burlington, Vermont.
L3Harris prepares F-16’s Viper Shield EW system for flight-tests
L3Harris is anticipating the launch of a flight-test campaign involving its Viper Shield electronic warfare (EW) system – technology that will play a key role in protecting new Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters operated by nations including Bahrain.
South Korea launches short take-off Gray Eagle UAV from amphibious assault ship
In a first of its kind flight, a General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Gray Eagle short take-off and landing uncrewed aircraft has launched from a South Korean amphibious assault ship, the equivalent of a light aircraft carrier
Deutsche Aircraft sees ‘huge’ potential to sell D328eco in Canada
The 200-plus old turboprops operating in Canada give Deutsche Aircraft reason for excitement.
Start-up Electra reveals nine-seat ‘EL9 Ultra Short’ aircraft design
After months of flight-testing a prototype capable of taking off and landing with 46m (150ft) of runway, US aircraft developer Electra has revealed the design for its proposed production aircraft – the EL9 Ultra Short.
Trump national security team takes shape with mix of insiders and outsiders
The returning president says he will nominate congressman and former US Army special forces officer Mike Waltz as national security advisor, while Army National Guard veteran and television news presenter Pete Hegseth has been selected to lead the Pentagon.
Potential restructuring looms as Spirit Airlines misses deadline to file quarterly report
Spirit Airlines has missed its deadline for filing a report on its third-quarter financial results with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) amid reports that it is considering financial restructuring.
Electra partners with NASA to explore scaling low-emissions technology to 200-seat aircraft
US aircraft developer Electra has secured a contract with NASA to explore future aircraft concepts that could dramatically scale its technology by the middle of the century.
Northrop completes preliminary design review of E-2D Block II modernisation
The proposed series of Block II upgrades represents the most significant enhancements to the carrier-capable tactical airborne early warning aircraft since 2003, according to Northrop, including a complete technology refresh for the cockpit, mission computer and operations station.
Boeing delivered 14 jets during strike-hit October
Boeing landed new orders for 63 jets during October and, despite most of its Pacific Northwest factory workers being on strike, still managed to deliver 14 aircraft last month – nine 737 Max single-aisles and five widebodies.
Spirit AeroSystems secures fresh loan from Boeing amid cash crunch
Boeing has agreed to loan aerostructures manufacturer Spirit AeroSystems up to $330 million, a move coming just days after Spirit warned that a cash crunch threatened the viability of its business.
Avia Solutions orders 40 Boeing 737 Max 8s
Aircraft lessor and airline operator Avia Solutions Group has ordered 40 Boeing 737 Max 8s, marking the company’s first direct purchase from the US manufacturer.
Bell focused on future upgrades as FLRAA advances toward delivery of first prototype
The rotorcraft manufacturer says its Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) tiltrotor will be the first major Pentagon procurement programme to incorporate features designed to reduce the cost and time needed to incorporate potential new capabilities.
Boeing’s top safety officer to retire as company revives production following strike
On 11 November, the aircraft manufacturer said Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) senior vice-president of quality Elizabeth Lund, who led the company’s public response to the January in-flight blow out of a 737 Max 9’s door plug, will retire in December.
Parker offering new wheels-brakes option for A321neos
US manufacturer Parker Aerospace has developed a new carbon brake and wheel option for Airbus A321neos being assembled from 2026.
Avelo’s latest expansion to include start-up’s first international flights
US start-up carrier Avelo Airlines plans to soon launch its first-ever international flights, to Mexico and the Caribbean, as it establishes new operational bases in Connecticut and Florida.
P&WC aims to demonstrate hydrogen-burning turboprop
Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) has embarked on a government-supported project to evaluate using hydrogen as fuel for a PW127XT turboprop.
F-35B flight trials conclude for Japan’s JS Kaga
Senior officials from the US Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force joined the crew of the JS Kaga, as F-35B pilots from the UK Royal Navy and US Marine Corps wrapped up flight trials aboard the ship.
Engine shortages leave Embraer unable to hit 2024 E-Jet production target
Embraer has scaled back its 2024 E-Jet delivery expectations due to engine shortages and other supply chain troubles that continue hampering the Brazilian manufacturer’s ability to speed up production.
Cash positions increasingly critical for US electric air taxi developers
Amid a drier landscape for investment capital, US air taxi developers face a critical phase.
US Navy completes first test flight using carrier-based uncrewed control station
As part of the evaluation, the navy controlled a General Atomics Aeronautical Systems MQ-20 Avenger uncrewed aerial vehicle using the Lockheed Martin control station that will be installed in the service’s fleet of aircraft carriers.
Archer and Joby seek slices of envisioned Japanese air taxi market
About a week after Joby completed its first international demonstration flights in the shadow of Mount Fuji, Archer disclosed on 7 November a deal to deliver up to 100 of its air taxis to newly established operator Soracle, which is backed by Japan Airlines and Sumitomo.
NASA begins X-59 engine runs and now aims for 2025 first flight
The NASA team developing the X-59 supersonic demonstrator jet have fired up the aircraft’s GE Aviation F414-GE-100 powerplant for the first time, having started engine-run tests on 30 October.
Spirit AeroSystems raises doubt about continuing as a ‘going concern’
Spirit AeroSystems is warning that its business viability remains in doubt, saying its cash reserves are drying up due to Boeing’s sharply reduced production rates and to other factors driving steep losses on its Airbus and Boeing programme work.
Former Spirit Airlines CEO and ULCC pioneer Ben Baldanza dies at 62
Ben Baldanza, who worked four decades in the US airline industry and helped create the ultra-low-cost model as former chief executive of Spirit Airlines, died on 5 November at age 62 after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Rise Air to be Canada’s launch customer for ATR 72-600
Canadian regional operator Rise Air will be the country’s launch customer for the ATR 72-600, after it placed a firm order for one aircraft to be delivered in 2025.
Strike ends as machinists approve new contract with Boeing
Members of the International Association of Machinists (IAM) have ratified a four-year contract with Boeing, ending a 53-day strike that cost the company billions of dollars and forced it to halt aircraft production in the Pacific Northwest.
Beta lands deposit-backed order for up to 20 aircraft from Metro Aviation
Beta Technologies has landed a deposit-backed order for up to 20 of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) Alia A250 aircraft from medical operator Metro Aviation.
Boeing and US Navy simulate MQ-25 carrier recovery using F-35 automated landing system
To land aboard US Navy aircraft carriers, Boeing’s unmanned MQ-25 Stingray tanker jet will make use of the Joint Precision Approach Landing System – a technology originally deployed to autonomously land Lockheed Martin F-35 fighters.
Bombardier delivers eighth E-11A communications jet to USAF
The Battlefield Airborne Communications Node is based on Bombardier’s Global 6000 business jet, with mission-systems integration and sustainment work performed by Northrop Grumman.
Southwest appoints Rakesh Gangwal as board chair
Southwest Airlines on 4 November disclosed the appointment of Rakesh Gangwal as independent chair of the company’s board of directors, filling the role left vacant by former executive chairman Gary Kelly.
Investment firm to acquire air cargo company ATSG for $3.1 billion
New York investment firm Stonepeak has signed an agreement to acquire US air cargo and aircraft leasing company Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) for $3.1 billion under a deal that would make ATSG a private company.
Airbus expects to sign Spirit work-package acquisition contract before year-end
Airbus aims to sign a contract by the end of this year for the acquisition of work packages currently managed by US firm Spirit AeroSystems.
Lockheed set to provide Sniper pods for Polish FA-50s
Lockheed Martin says it is set to provide Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods to Poland for use aboard the Korea Aerospace Industries FA-50 light-attack jet.
USMC pins 2023 F-35B crash on pilot error
A US Marine Corps (USMC) investigation has attributed the 17 September 2023 crash of a Lockheed Martin F-35B fighter to pilot error.
Boeing sweetens offer to striking machinists
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) says it will vote on Boeing’s latest contract offer on 4 November.
SkyWest to deploy 40 CR550s into United’s network, including 11 former GoJet aircraft
SkyWest Airlines on 31 October disclosed a deal to deploy 40 MHIRJ CRJ550 regional jets to fly under contract for United Airlines.
Honda cleared by FAA to begin eVTOL demonstration flights
A division of Honda appears set to begin flight testing a scaled-down prototype of an unmanned electric aircraft, though few details about the development programme are known.
Sun Country on track to take eight 737 Freighters in 2025
US carrier Sun Country Airlines anticipates taking delivery next year of eight additional Boeing 737-800 cargo aircraft to fly on behalf of Amazon.
Spirit Airlines to furlough further 330 pilots to match drastic capacity cuts
Spirit Airlines plans to furlough a further 330 pilots early next year as it navigates a period of severe financial turbulence.
Learjet experienced in-flight upset from A330 wake during Halifax approach
Canadian investigators have disclosed that a Bombardier Learjet 35A experienced an in-flight upset from wake turbulence during an approach to Halifax.
Allegiant to operate lone 737 Max 8 through end of 2024
Allegiant Air’s first Boeing 737 Max 8 jet entered revenue service earlier this month, but that will be the only 737 to carry passengers on the carrier’s network this year.
Audit claims Boeing overcharged for C-17 parts, including $149,000 for soap dispensers
The US Department of Defense inspector general initiated an investigation into the C-17 sustainment programme based on an anonymous tip, with the office concluding the US Air Force “did not pay fair and reasonable prices” for 26% of spare parts reviewed.
Unknown number of Frontier jets could be grounded for P&W engine inspections
While airlines worldwide grapple with groundings of Airbus A320neo-family jets due to Pratt & Whitney’s recall of hundreds of its geared turbofan (GTF) engines, all-Airbus operator Frontier Airlines has been spared so far from similar operational disruptions.
‘Frustrating’: JetBlue executives unable to finalise post-2025 plan due to P&W recall
JetBlue Airways has yet to finalise its business plan after 2025 due to what executives describe as a frustrating lack of detail about the long-term operational impact of Pratt & Whitney’s (P&W) ongoing recall of PW1000G engines.
Frontier’s network and capacity changes start to show in profitable third quarter
Company executives say Frontier Airlines’ network and passenger-capacity pivots are already paying off as parent Frontier Group Holdings posted a modest third-quarter profit of $26 million.
Nasdaq stock exchange to delist Lilium following insolvency filings
The Nasdaq stock exchange will halt trading of financially embattled air taxi developer Lilium’s shares after 5 November, a move coming in response to insolvency filings for two of the German company’s main subsidiaries.
JetBlue swings to $60m third-quarter loss but points to improving financial trends
JetBlue Airways lost $60 million in the third quarter of 2024 but insists its turnaround plan is yielding results, citing improving cost and revenue trends.
Frontier pilots landed A321 with partial instrument failure before runway brake fire
A faulty fan unit likely contributed to a brake fire and a “huge screen of smoke” that trailed a Frontier Airlines-operated Airbus A321 upon landing in Las Vegas earlier this month.
Mystery buyers pick up Bell 412EPX helicopters for military use
Three Bell 412EPX civil helicopters were recently purchased through the Pentagon’s Foreign Military Sales system, although the buyers have not been disclosed by Washington.
Boeing seeks to raise $19bn via stock sale amid cash crunch
Amid concerns that Boeing does not have enough cash on-hand to support operations, the US airframer disclosed on 28 October a public offering of 90 million shares, plus $5 billion of depository shares.
SmartLynx secures US authorisation for Latvian fleet operations
Wet-lease specialist SmartLynx Airlines has secured broader authorisation to conduct US operations, with approval of its Latvian division.
US manufacturers ramp solid rocket motor production amid surging munitions demand
After years of decline left the US aerospace industry with just a single independent producer of rocket motor engines to power critical missiles, a global surge in munitions purchases has spurred major defence manufacturers to develop new production capacity.
Textron trims 2024 financial estimates due to machinists’ strike, delivery slowdown
Executives cut $500 million off Textron Aviation’s expected 2024 revenue following month-long walkout by machinists
Moody’s thinks Boeing still has negotiating room with union as cash crunch continues
Boeing faces the prospect of losing billions more dollars in the fourth quarter and may need to accelerate efforts to raise cash after machinists on 23 October voted down another of the company’s contract offerings.
Struggling Spirit Airlines to sell 23 A320-family jets as passenger capacity craters
Spirit Airlines recently entered a binding agreement to sell 23 of its older Airbus A320-family aircraft to GA Telesis for a total purchase price of about $519 million.
‘Broad’ inquiry puts US airline competition under government microscope
The US government has launched a “broad public inquiry” into competition within the country’s airline industry that will cover consolidation, anticompetitive practices and labour issues, among other areas of concern.
F-35s team with uncrewed jet in latest USMC exercises
The US Marine Corps successfully teamed an XQ-58 Valkyrie autonomous jet with four F-35Bs, with the uncrewed Valkyrie providing forward threat targeting data to the flight of stealth fighters.
Southwest’s board overhaul continues with six new directors and Gary Kelly’s ‘accelerated’ retirement
In a settlement with minority stakeholder Elliott Investment Management, Southwest Airlines is appointing six new directors to its board and accelerating the retirement of executive chairman Gary Kelly.
Low production rate impacts Saab on T-7A jet trainer programme
Saab expects to be negatively impacted by its role in the Boeing T-7A advanced jet trainer programme for the “next couple of years” before seeing its involvement rewarded, the Swedish company says.
American salvages third quarter in the face of disruptive events
American Airlines was able to quickly recover from several disruptive events during the third quarter to report marginally higher revenue, expenses and capacity across both its domestic and international networks.
Why small is beautiful when it comes to regional connectivity
Although the market for regional aircraft has been subdued in recent years, there are reasons for hope amid passenger pressure for better connectivity and airlines looking to right-size their fleets, argues Raphael Haddad.
A220 operators told to upgrade flight-control software to address ’design deficiencies’
Airbus A220 operators are being instructed to install a new production baseline software for flight-control computers to remedy a number of deficiencies reported on in-service aircraft.
All systems VerdeGo for hybrid-electric powerplant developer
Florida-based VerdeGo Aero is upping the pace of developing and testing its hybrid-electric powerplants, as civilian and military interest in the next generation of flight propulsion takes off.
Production troubles push Spirit AeroSystems to $447m loss in third quarter
Aerostructures producer Spirit AeroSystems lost $477 million in the third quarter of 2024 due largely to significant charges taken by the company against several of its financially troubled aircraft programmes.
FAA’s eVTOL rule sets safety ‘baseline’ but flight limitations remain unclear
While electric aircraft manufacturers insist they are close to certificating their designs, uncertainty abounds about operating limitations and how the aircraft will be integrated into complex airspace.
Joby’s front-row seat to historic FAA rule signing ‘exciting final chapter before operations’
Joby Aviation’s electric air taxi was positioned front-and-center as Michael Whitaker, head of the Federal Aviation Administration, signed in Las Vegas a historic rule establishing a new class of “powered lift” aircraft.
Boeing will not ‘walk away’ from financially challenged defence contracts, Ortberg says
Despite punishing financial losses on several military contracts, with no end in sight, Boeing chief executive Kelly Ortberg says his company remains committed to delivering on its full portfolio of defence programmes.
US DOT fines American Airlines $50m for violating disabled passengers’ rights
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has slapped American Airlines with a civil penalty of $50 million for “numerous serious violations of the laws protecting airline passengers with disabilities”.
Boeing chief: Change and stability essential to create ‘path to next commercial aircraft’
Boeing’s chief executive Kelly Ortberg has stressed that the company needs fundamental cultural change, and cannot embark on new aircraft development until it has stabilised its business and improved programme execution.
King Air close to touchdown before A319 cleared to depart intersecting runway
US investigators probing a conflict at Washington National airport have revealed that a Beechcraft King Air was 0.9nm from touchdown when an American Airlines Airbus A319 was cleared for take-off on an intersecting runway.
Lilium stays course toward certification, eyes US sales amid financing search
The chief commercial officer of German electric aircraft developer Lilium is urging investor patience as the company seeks additional financing after recently losing a German loan guarantee.
How Garmin’s new G3000 Prime avionics suite builds off 20 years of experience
Leaning on the institutional knowledge that comes with installing more than 30,000 flight decks across various aircraft types over the past 20 years, Garmin’s latest avionics suite – the G3000 Prime – is the Kansas firm’s most advanced yet.
Wheels Up to acquire used Phenom 300s and Challengers in overhaul of jet fleet
Charter aircraft provider Wheels Up has secured fresh financing and revealed plans to replace its fleet of owned jets with used Embraer Phenom 300s and Bombardier Challengers.
American weapon manufacturers report record orders at home and abroad
Surging orders for long-range missiles and air defence systems has driven backlogs to record levels, according to US arms manufacturers.
F-35 deliveries ramp up but full combat certification remains elusive
While F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin has resumed delivery of the globally important fifth-generation fighter, certification of the newest jets for full combat operations continues to pose technical challenges.
FAA finalises rule establishing new class of ‘powered lift’ aircraft to enable commercial air taxis
Clearing the way for a new class of “powered lift” aircraft to get off the ground, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on 22 October released a finalised rule outlining operational and pilot-training requirements for the burgeoning electric air taxi sector.
American to purchase 14 CRJ900s for regional subsidiary PSA
American Airlines’ regional subsidiary PSA Airlines plans to add to its fleet of regional jets 14 MHIRJ CRJ900s, with the first aircraft expected to be delivered next month.
CAE showcases mixed-reality flight deck simulation app at NBAA
Aviation training company CAE has revealed a new pilot-training app compatible with the Apple Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, which it touts as a potential “game-changer” for aspiring aviators.
Aer Lingus to open A321XLR route to Indianapolis
IAG’s Irish carrier, Aer Lingus, is to open a new Airbus A321XLR transatlantic service to the US city of Indianapolis next year.
Textron Aviation reveals launch customer, completes first flight of CJ4 Gen3 light jet
A “longtime Cessna Citation enthusiast” is lined up to become the launch customer for Textron Aviation’s first CJ4 Gen3 light business jet, which flew for the first time in early October.
US Navy designates E-6B replacement the E-130J
The US Navy’s fleet of E-6B Mercury nuclear missile command and control jets will be replaced by a Lockheed Martin C-130J-based platform, now designated the E-130J.
Bombardier begins manufacturing large structural components for first production Global 8000
Bombardier has started manufacturing major structural components for the first production example of its ultra-long-range Global 8000, a business jet that is set to succeed the Global 7500 as the Montreal airframer’s flagship.
Aviation batteries power ahead towards bigger aircraft
Almost half a century after the first de Havilland Canada DHC-7 – or Dash 7 – commuter aircraft took flight, a 45-year-old derivative is being transformed to help develop the platforms of the future.
Textron Aviation rolls out upgraded ‘Gen3’ series of light jets with standard auto-land
Textron Aviation is rolling out at the NBAA show in Las Vegas a series of upgrades to its Cessna Citation family of light business jets that will represent “Gen 3” variants of the M2, CJ3 and CJ4 platforms.
Military operators increasingly turn to business jets for specialty missions
Drawn by reliability and affordability, militaries are increasingly turning to business jets to fill niche roles within their aviation fleets including intelligence collection and electronic warfare.
CFM, P&W address durability issues as number of grounded GTF-powered jets inches higher
The issues facing turbofan producers CFM International and Pratt & Whitney (P&W) would surely have stolen headlines in 2024 had the year not been so incredibly troubled for the broader aerospace industry.
E170 crew had ILS tuning difficulties before wrong-runway landing at Chicago
US investigators probing a wrong-runway landing by an Embraer 170 at Chicago O’Hare have disclosed that the crew had encountered problems autotuning the ILS localiser frequency.
Honeywell forecasts 10-year demand for 8,500 new business jets amid ‘normalising’ environment
Honeywell expects business jet operators will need 8,500 new jets in the next 10 years, reflecting what the company calls “normalising” and “stable” demand for business aircraft following the pandemic-era boom.
Honeywell smoothing developmental pathways with Ansys’ simulation software
Todd Giles, Honeywell’s chief technology officer, describes how the working relationship between the firms has evolved since 2006, when they first endeavoured to “move more and more down the simulation road”.
Boeing machinists to vote next week on new contract proposal
Boeing’s largest labour union has agreed to send a new contract proposal to members for a vote, a move that could end a now-five-week strike that has crippled Boeing’s production in the Pacific Northwest.
Airbus developing uncrewed UH-72 helicopter for Pacific logistics role
Airbus plans to develop an unmanned variant of its H145-derived UH-72B Lakota military helicopter with autonomous flight capability under a US Marine Corps logistics programme.
Spirt AeroSystems furloughs 700 workers as Boeing strike drags on
The aerostructures supplier is sending home 700 workers on its 767 and 777 fuselage programmes, as a machinists strike at partner Boeing has hobbled aircraft production.
Norse Atlantic to open new link to Los Angeles
Long-haul low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic Airways is opening a transatlantic service between Rome Fiumicino and Los Angeles next year.
US carriers jostle for highly sought long-distance slots out of Reagan airport
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has tentatively awarded 10 hotly contested slots for long-distance domestic flights out of Ronald Reagan National airport in Washington, DC.
United signs for 40 leased A321neos amid narrowbody jet shortage
United Airlines signed during the third quarter “definitive agreements” with unnamed aircraft lessors to lease 40 Airbus A321neo jets, with deliveries expected in 2026-27.
Aura Aero plots US expansion with Florida manufacturing site
French start-up Aura Aero intends to construct a new facility in Florida to manufacture its planned hybrid-electric ERA aircraft, an effort by the company to have a stronger presence in the important US market.
SkyWest signs to fly 11 CRJ550s under United Express brand
US regional carrier SkyWest Airlines has secured a deal to fly a small fleet of MHIRJ CRJ550 regional jets on behalf of United Airlines starting in December.
L3Harris appeals selection of Sierra Nevada for US Army intelligence jet
Work on the army’s High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System business jet-based intelligence programme is now paused, while auditors review the process by which the service selected Sierra Nevada Corporation over L3Harris.
Mesa to stop flying CRJ900s for United and shift to all-E175 fleet as losses mount
US regional carrier Mesa Airlines intends to remove all MHIRJ CRJ900 regional jets from its fleet with United Airlines by March 2025, shifting to a smaller fleet composed only of Embraer 175s.
Wisk furthers pursuit of self-flying air taxi network in Australia
US autonomous air taxi developer Wisk Aero has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Airservices Australia aimed at safely incorporating its in-development, self-flying Gen 6 aircraft into Australian airspace.
United's third quarter boosted by industry's capacity 'inflection point'
United Airlines’ profitable third quarter was boosted by an “inflection point” in the US airline industry, which saw a widespread shedding of domestic passenger capacity as some carriers cut routes.
US Army announces survivability and communications upgrades for rotorcraft fleet
Lockheed Martin will develop a new electronic warfare system for the service’s attack helicopters, while BAE Systems is upgrading its rotary-wing fleet with new encrypted radios and missile warning systems.
Emirates’ airline chief questions Boeing’s new 777-9 timeline
The president of Emirates Airline is sceptical Boeing can meet its new goal of delivering the first 777-9 in 2026, citing the programme’s currently stalled type inspection authorisation and a crippling strike.
See inside refreshed cabins coming to Delta’s ‘entire fleet’
Delta Air Lines is rolling out a fresh cabin design that will appear later this year on domestic routes flown by Boeing 757s, followed by a long-haul Airbus A350 scheduled for the upgrades in early 2025.
Negotiations ongoing to extend Black Hawk production to 2032
Sikorsky and the US Army are continuing negotiations on the 11th multi-year procurement deal for UH-60 Black Hawks, which would see production of the iconic helicopter extended to 2032.
Boeing secures $10bn in new credit and looks to raise another $25bn
Boeing is taking steps to secure billions in additional funds as it works to bolster its troubled balance sheet amid a costly machinists strike.
Southwest calls Elliott’s request for shareholder meeting ‘unnecessary and inappropriate’
The war of words between Southwest Airlines and its minority shareholder Elliott Investment Management continues as the airline refutes Elliott’s request to hold a special shareholder meeting later this year.
Eve secures $88m loan from Brazilian government to build production facility
Embraer-backed Eve Air Mobility has received a $88 million loan from Brazil’s National Development Bank (BNDES) to fund the company’s new facility in Taubate, about 43km (27 miles) northeast of Embraer’s headquarters in San Jose dos Campos.
Bell drops Spirit AeroSystems as supplier of FLRAA fuselages
The decision from Bell comes as Boeing works to close its acquisition of Spirit, which manufacturers numerous structural components for Boeing jets, including 737 fuselages.
Sikorsky to modify ‘MX’ Black Hawk for autonomous flight
Under a $6 million grant from the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Sikorsky will modify a government-owned UH-60M helicopter with autonomy technologies that could allow for single-pilot or fully pilotless flight.
Leonardo UK launches BriteStorm stand-in jammer, with big US ambitions
Leonardo UK has launched its latest airborne electronic warfare (EW) product, with the BriteStorm payload to enable small unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) to perform stand-in jamming tasks such as targeting enemy integrated air defence systems.
Elliott formally requests Southwest Airlines special shareholder meeting
Southwest Airlines’ minority investor Elliott Investment Management has requested a special shareholder meting to be held in early December, in its fight to oust chief executive Bob Jordan and much of the company’s board of directors.
Nigerian carrier Air Peace’s chief faces charges over alleged bid to halt fraud probe
Nigerian carrier Air Peace’s founder and chief executive, Allen Onyema, has been indicted by US authorities alleging obstruction of justice by filing false documentation intended to end a previous investigation.
FAA lacks adequate method to oversee Boeing production issues: government report
The US Department of Transportation’s (DOT) top inspector says the Federal Aviation Administration lacks effective oversight of Boeing’s 737 and 787 production systems.
Boeing to cut 10% of workforce and end 767F production, while delaying 777X
Boeing plans to lay off roughly 17,000 workers, delay its first 777-9 delivery and end 767 Freighter production, part of a plan to restructure its business around “core” products and keep afloat amid a crippling machinists strike and numerous other business challenges.
Delta to resume LA-Shanghai flights as part of broader 2025 network shift
Delta Air Lines plans next summer to resume flights from Los Angeles to Shanghai and to launch a route from Minneapolis to Copenhagen, part of the airline’s broader network shuffle.
United anticipates receiving first A321XLR in January 2026
United Airlines expects to take delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR in January 2026, at which point the long-range narrowbody jets will start replacing United’s ageing Boeing 757s.
Delta now expects delivery of first 737 Max 10s in 2026
Delta Air Lines is now scheduled to take its first Boeing 737 Max 10 in 2026, a year later than the US carrier previously expected to begin integrating the yet-to-be-certificated type into its fleet.
Delta’s ‘premium’ products providing edge over US competitors
In a US airline market that currently favours carriers that cater to high-paying customers, Delta Air Lines has been reaping the rewards.
Embraer Super Tucanos join USAF test fleet
Three Embraer A-29 Super Tucanos have arrived at the US Air Force’s test pilot school in the California desert, where they will be used to conduct training and research on a variety of sensors and weapon systems.
US presidential election drags on Delta’s otherwise positive-looking fourth quarter
Delta Air Lines’ bookings are tracking “off trend” immediately before and after the US presidential election on 5 November, which is expected to moderately impact the carrier’s fourth-quarter revenue.
Pilot union and Air Canada end labour dispute with four-year contract
Air Canada’s pilots have ratified a new four-year employment contract with the Montreal-based airline, ending a lengthy dispute that last month involved threats of a strike.
United plans ‘unique’ 2025 network expansion reaching Greenland and Mongolia
United Airlines is adding several international destinations to its summer 2025 schedule that could be considered off the beaten path, including cities in Greenland and Mongolia.
Delta takes profits hit from July tech outage but upbeat on rest of year
Delta Air Lines kicked off the third-quarter earnings season by expressing optimism for the rest of the year, even after reporting lower adjusted net profit following a technology outage in July.
Lockheed names new head of F-35 programme
Lockheed’s current deputy F-35 manager Chauncey McIntosh will take over as head of the troubled fighter programme, which is the company’s largest individual revenue generator, but has battled engineering and delivery challenges for more than year.
US Army exploring replacement for Airbus UH-72 as helicopter trainer
The US Army is seeking proposals from industry to reduce costs and increase efficiency in training new rotary-wing aviation, including replacing the militarised Airbus Helicopters H145s currently used for initial flight certification.
Industry group lays out self-oversight plan to address problem of unapproved engine parts
A GE Aerospace-led research group has released recommendations aimed at preventing unapproved engine components from entering the supply chain.
Carriers argue fatigue risk weighs against FAA’s order to modify 787 cockpit seats
US regulators are ordering Boeing 787 operators to modify cockpit seats to prevent possible serious injury to the captain in the event of rapid decompression, despite objections from several airlines citing fatigue risk.
US airlines and Florida airports brace for the impact of Hurricane Milton
US airlines have added flights to evacuate residents and tourists from Florida ahead of the impending impact of Hurricane Milton, which is set to slam into the west coast of Florida later in the day.
Boeing withdraws contract offer to striking union after talks fail again
Boeing has withdrawn a pay offer to some 33,000 striking workers, after the latest round of negotiations again ended in stalemate.
Boeing delivered 33 jets last month despite machinists’ strike
Despite an ongoing machinists’ strike, Boeing managed to close September with a healthy number of aircraft deliveries for the month, saying it has been able to continue handing over some aircraft with help from non-striking employees.
RJ100 overran after crew landed without accurate runway surface information
Canadian investigators have revealed that runway surface condition information at Prince Rupert airport had not been updated before a BAE Systems Avro RJ100 overran during landing.
Several Florida airports to cease commercial operations ahead of Hurricane Milton
Several major airports in Florida are planning to shut down operations in preparation for Hurricane Milton, which has rapidly intensified into a potentially catastrophic storm as it approaches the state’s Gulf Coast.
Textron eAviation prepares Nexus eVTOL for 2025 flight-test campaign
Flight-testing with a prototype will be conducted at Salina Regional airport, following the completion of tethered flights with the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Can the US Air Force actually make its disposable fighter jets at an affordable price?
The service is betting much of its future on developing and fielding large numbers of so-called “attritable” combat jets that cost a fraction of traditional fighter aircraft. But can that goal actually be achieved?
NTSB opens investigation into Frontier Airlines fire in Las Vegas
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation into an incident in Las Vegas in which a Frontier Airlines Airbus A321 landed, apparently with its right main landing gear on fire.
United, BOC Aviation sign lease for three 737s, single 787-9
BOC Aviation has entered into a lease transaction with long-time customer United Airlines, covering four Boeing aircraft.
Boeing and union to resume contract talks on 7 October as strike pain spreads
Boeing and its machinists’ union will resume contract negotiations on 7 October, as workers and the company feel increasing pressure from a strike now exceeding three weeks.
Leidos to test launching cruise missiles from AC-130 gunships
The US defence technology firm is preparing to test its Black Arrow small cruise missile, designed to be an affordable long-range munition that can be launched from cargo aircraft.
CRJ200 excursion inquiry unable to determine reason behind landing-roll deviation
US investigators have been unable to determine the reason for a MHIRJ CRJ200’s veering to the right upon landing, resulting in a runway excursion at Dayton.
NOAA orders two C-130Js for hurricane hunter fleet renewal
Lockheed Martin will produce two specially-configured C-130J tactical transports for use by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Spirit Airlines’ struggles deepen amid reports of potential bankruptcy
Struggling Spirit Airlines has sharply reduced its October schedule and is cutting routes across its network amid reports that it is exploring a bankruptcy filing.
US Navy affirms commitment to fielding sixth-generation fighter
While the US Air Force is walking back its commitment to developing a manned sixth-generation combat fighter, the navy’s top officer says her service remains committed to fielding a new aircraft under its F/A-XX programme.
US Army placing ‘many bets’ on new uncrewed systems
The US Army is rolling out a diverse range of uncrewed aerial systems for combat units small and large, with the goal of testing the wide variety of platforms currently available.
Think tank Rand outlines niche eVTOL applications for USAF
The US Air Force could benefit from the use of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in niche applications, according to think tank Rand Corporation.
Qatar to open Toronto route after operating previous temporary service
Middle Eastern carrier Qatar Airways is to open services to Toronto before the end of this year, a destination it had previously served on a temporary basis during the pandemic crisis.
FAA completes safety review of United Airlines and finds no ‘significant’ issues
The US Federal Aviation Administration has completed a review of safety at United Airlines following several incidents that attracted unwanted attention of the flying public as well as the aviation regulator.
Skydweller Aero completes tests of ultra-long-endurance solar aircraft
The Oklahoma-headquartered firm on 30 September said the Skydweller UAS successfully conducted a series of autonomous long-duration flights in recent weeks, including one sortie lasting 22h 30min and another spanning 16h.
Toyota plans $500m of investments to boost certification of Joby’s aircraft
Toyota Motor Corporation is planning to invest in two phases a total of $500 million into Joby Aviation as the start-up pushes to certificate and commercialise its electric air taxi as soon as next year.
Textron Aviation reverses course and will exhibit at NBAA
Textron Aviation now says it will exhibit at this month’s NBAA business aviation exhibition in Las Vegas, reserving course after last week backing out of the event amid a machinists strike in Wichita.
UrbanLink signs for up to 20 Alice all-electric aircraft
Florida-based UrbanLink Air Mobility has signed a tentative agreement for up to 20 Eviation Alice all-electric commuter aircraft.
CAE signs simulator development deal for Canada’s FaCT programme
CAE has signed a roughly $1.7 billion contract linked to the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Air Crew Training (FAcT) programme.
Protracted longshoremen strike could disrupt Airbus production in Mobile: analysts
If a US dockworkers’ strike continues for more than a few weeks Airbus could start experiencing shortages of structural components used to assemble A320neo-family jets in Mobile, Alabama, possibly disrupting production.
Pentagon pressing ahead with F-35 engine upgrade
The US Department of Defense is affirming its commitment to delivering an engine upgrade for the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter, with a recent $1.3 billion contract to propulsion supplier Pratt & Whitney to fund continued development of the initiative.
Russian Su-35 nearly collides with US F-16 during Alaska intercept
In a move being decried as unsafe and unprofessional by the Pentagon, a Russian air force Su-35 fighter passed dangerously close to a US Air Force F-16 whilst the American jet was shadowing a Russian long-range bomber off the coast of Alaska.
Southwest to explore selling old and new 737s to create cash flow
Southwest is considering selling some of its older Boeing 737-800s and newer 737 Max jets, in addition to executing aircraft sale-leaseback deals, to boost its weakened financial position.
Bahamasair expects spat with US carriers to be resolved this week: CEO
Bahamasair’s chief executive Tracy Cooper expects a disagreement between the Bahamas government and US airlines about air traffic control fees to be resolved by the end of this week.
Could the US Air Force restore electronic attack fighter capability?
The US Air Force has not operated a dedicated offensive electronic-attack fighter since 1998 when the service retired its EF-111 Ravens, but service leaders now appear to be embracing electronic warfare as a central aspect of modern air combat operations.
How last C-2 Greyhound squadron stepped up to support US Navy aircraft carriers
The US Navy’s last unit to operate the veteran C-2 Greyhound carrier onboard delivery aircraft has been busier than ever in 2024, due to operating restrictions placed on the replacement Bell-Boeing CV-22B tiltrotor.
Has business aviation demand reached a new normal in the USA?
Business aviation enjoyed a post-pandemic spike in the USA – but what are the longer-term prospects for the sector ahead of its biggest annual event, and a presidential election two weeks later?
Are business jet developers ready to launch the next big thing?
Most business aircraft manufacturers have revealed their hands in terms of new product development ahead of this year’s NBAA convention. But will there be any surprise launches?
Lobby group asks DOT to block Bahamasair’s operating authority amid fee spat
Bahamasair has become embroiled in a disagreement between the government in Nassau and US airlines that fly into the island country’s airspace.
Elliott’s criticism of Southwest’s overhaul plan ‘inane’: CEO Bob Jordan
Southwest Airlines chief executive Bob Jordan blasted minority shareholder Elliott Investment Management’s latest criticisms as “inane” during Southwest’s 26 September investor day in Dallas.
US Marine Corps completes third XQ-58 test flight
The US Marine Corps’ third test flight of the Kratos XQ-58 Valkyrie autonomous jet saw the successful integration of the Link 16 data communications system that will be critical to the effective deployment of uncrewed fighters.
Southwest will ditch open seating in 2026 as part of broader transformation plan
Southwest Airlines has revealed more details about its business-overhaul plan, saying it will abandon its open-seating model in 2026, form partnerships with other airlines and begin charging for “premium” coach seats.
Jazz parent Chorus closer to divesting leasing business
Shareholders have approved Chorus Aviation’s planned $825 million sale of its aircraft leasing business to HPS Investment Partners, a deal Chorus has said it aims to close before year-end.
GlobalX takes delivery of 18th A320-family aircraft
Charter carrier Global Crossing Airlines has taken delivery of its 18th Airbus aircraft, an 150-seat A320 it is leasing from Dubai-based DAE Capital.
Textron Aviation to sit out NBAA show next month as strike disrupts production
Textron Aviation has decided not to exhibit at the NBAA business aviation trade show in Las Vegas next month, a move coming as the company’s operations remain hobbled by an ongoing machinists’ strike.
Dozens of jets returning from desert exile as pilot attrition eases across US regional industry
Dozens of regional jets that have been sitting in the Arizona desert are returning to commercial service as regional carriers take advantage of a temporary reprieve in pilot attrition.
Machinists union says members reject Boeing’s latest proposal as strike continues
Boeing’s machinists “overwhelmingly” view the company’s latest contract offer as insufficient, and the union has seemingly dug in its heals, suggesting no imminent end to a walkout now entering a 13th day.
US Air Force to retire final KC-10 tanker
After more than 40 years of service, the US Air Force is retiring its final Boeing KC-10 Extender aerial refueller, which is being replaced by the newer Boeing KC-46 Pegasus.
Southwest’s feud with Elliot heats up ahead of investor day
Southwest Airlines’ increasingly acrimonious public feud with minority shareholder Elliot Investment Management has heated up a notch just days before the carrier is scheduled to update investors on its strategy.
US Navy shows F-35C carrying LRASM
The US Navy has commenced flight tests that will see the Lockheed Martin F-35C cleared for the Lockheed AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM).
Boeing gives union more time to consider offer as relations sour
Boeing has given the International Association of Machinists (IAM) more time to evaluate the company’s latest contract proposal, hoping to end a costly strike that has halted its aircraft production in the Pacific Northwest.
Honeywell targets 2027 for delivering F-35 power and thermal upgrade
The Pentagon has not decided how to address the long-term need for more power and cooling capacity aboard the advanced Lockheed Martin fighter jet, but the manufacturer of the current Power and Thermal Management System aims to have an upgrade ready around the time Pratt & Whitney starts rolling out an engine upgrade.
American Airlines chief warns net-zero targets in danger of being missed
Stakeholders are not doing enough to ensure the commercial air transport sector addresses its environmental impact, in the view of American Airlines chief executive Robert Isom.
Cathay marks North America expansion with Dallas launch
Cathay Pacific will begin operations to Dallas-Fort Worth – its newest point in the USA – in 2025, as it looks to increase its capacity into North America in the new year.
Textron Aviation’s machinists go on strike
Textron Aviation’s machinists walked off the job on 23 September after members of the 5,000-strong work group voted down the company’s proposed new employment contract.
L3Harris exploring maritime variant of Vampire drone defence system
The truck-mounted Vampire guided-rocket system was one of the first counter-UAS weapons provided to Ukraine by the Pentagon, and may soon see active service aboard ships.
Boeing makes ‘best and final offer’ to union as strike continues
Boeing has agreed to pay machinists 30% more over four years and has sweetened retirement benefits as part of a new proposed employment contract the company hopes will end a costly strike that brought its production lines to a halt.
Canada proposes C$790 airline charge for resolution of every customer complaint
Canada’s federal transport watchdog has proposed charging airlines a C$790 ($582) fee for every customer complaint it resolves – irrespective of whether or not it finds in the customer’s favour.
Boeing defence chief Ted Colbert departs company
Ted Colbert, chief executive of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, is leaving the aerospace manufacturer in what could be the first sign of a major senior leadership overhaul under new CEO Kelly Ortberg.
Flight of the Phenix: Start-up completes first phase of flight tests with Ultra 2XL rotorcraft
Uncrewed rotorcraft developer Phenix Solutions has completed a flight-test programme with a full-size prototype of its Ultra 2XL heavy-lift aircraft.
Boeing’s other large labour union rejects request for furloughs
Boeing’s second largest labour union has denied a request from the company for its members to be furloughed alongside other Boeing workers amid the ongoing machinists strike.
L3Harris exploring intelligence and crisis-response roles for Armed Overwatch turboprop
Amid criticism from government auditors, the US Special Operations Command and contracter L3Harris are expanding the potential capabilities of the new OA-1K close-air support turboprop to include more intelligence collection and electronic warfare.
USAF’s first autonomous combat jets will act as air-to-air ‘missile trucks’ for crewed fighters
The first batch of autonomous “Collaborative Combat Aircraft” being developed for the US Air Force will primarily be tasked with carrying extra precision munitions aloft, with other combat functions coming in subsequent designs.
De Havilland now producing first DHC-515 with 2028 in-service goal
De Havilland Canada is assembling its first DHC-515 Firefighter in Calgary and expects to begin delivering the aircraft by early 2028, a bit later than previously anticipated.
JetBlue to introduce first airport lounges in New York and Boston amid strategic revamp
JetBlue Airways is planning to open its first-ever airport lounges in New York and Boston as part of its plan to attract more business travellers.
Clock is ticking for Boeing to resolve machinists strike
Already dealing with multiple challenges across the business, Boeing’s hopes of a recovery this year are now threatened by a strike by its machinists. A quick resolution is key.
Can airframers navigate the shifting sands of supply chain for new aircraft development?
The next generation of commercial aircraft may have a shorter lifespan than their predecessors. With a heavy reliance on years of aftermarket revenues, supply chains will need to adapt, says Matteo Peraldo.
US Air Force Ospreys will return to combat duty in coming weeks
The Bell-Boeing CV-22 tiltrotors will soon return to combat duty, 10 months after a deadly crash in 2023 killed eight special mission airmen and grounded the USA’s entire Osprey fleet.
US regional carrier CommuteAir scales up ambitions with E170 charter service
CommuteAir believes that the recent introduction of a single Embraer E170 to its fleet will help fill a gap in the “70-seat charter market”.
Pentagon releases test footage of new B-21 stealth bomber in flight
Officials with the US Air Force and Northrop Grumman say a test version of the next-generation stealth bomber is currently flying up to two sorties per week, with two more examples being used for ground testing.
Boeing to begin furloughing staff in ‘coming days’ due to machinists’ strike
Boeing will soon begin furloughing employees and cutting executives’ salaries to save cash during a costly and ongoing strike by 33,000 members of its machinists union.
Alaska Air Group completes acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines
Alaska Air Group has acquired Hawaiian Airlines, completing a transaction that expands its operation to include transpacific flights and that bolsters Alaska Air’s fleet with its first widebody jets.
Hawaiian CEO Ingram to step down as ‘interim leadership’ takes over Alaska combination process
With Alaska Airlines’ acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines on the verge of approval by US aviation regulators, Hawaiian will be guided through the combination process by an “interim leadership team”.
Alaska could close Hawaiian purchase on 18 September following DOT approval
Alaska and Hawaiian expect to complete the transaction “in the coming days”, Alaska said on 17 September.
Leonardo delivers 100th TH-73 to US Navy
Leonardo Helicopters has handed over the 100th TH-73A Thrasher trainer to the US Navy.
Kongsberg to invest $100m in US Joint Strike Missile production
Buoyed by a recent first contract to supply Joint Strike Missiles (JSMs) to the US Air Force, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace is to build a new production facility in James City County, Virginia.
Kratos, AFRL test low-cost turbofan for use by attritable systems
Kratos Turbine Technologies and the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) have conducted ground tests of a low-cost turbofan engine architecture which the company claims will advance “affordable propulsion technologies for the warfighter”.
Boeing halts supplier shipments and hiring as strike continues
Boeing will ask suppliers to stop shipping most parts to its Pacific Northwest aircraft assembly sites and is considering furloughing employees as part of a broader plan to save cash amid an ongoing machinists’ strike.
Lockheed unveils new ‘extreme-range’ cruise missile
Building up mature technology used in the company’s existing long-range air-to-ground and anti-ship missiles, Lockheed says its new AGM-158 XR munition will provide a precision strike capability with even greater stand-off at a lower price per unit.
US Air Force to shake up fleet modernisation programmes in coming months
The service’s top civilian official says the US Air Force soon plans to announce major changes to its most-significant new aircraft development programmes, including to its sixth-generation air superiority platform, a low-observable tanker and low-cost autonomous fighters.
JetBlue adds former Frontier chief Sean Menke to board of directors
JetBlue Airways has added airline industry veteran Sean Menke, former chief executive of Frontier Airlines, to its board of directors.
Boeing to pay Embraer $150 million to settle dispute over failed acquisition
Boeing has agreed to pay Embraer $150 million to settle a dispute arising from the US company’s 2020 decision to back out of a deal to acquire majority ownership of Embraer’s commercial aircraft business.
Air Canada and its pilot union tentatively agree new contract
Just days before a potential pilot strike that could have disrupted air travel across North America, Air Canada and its pilots, represented by union Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), have tentatively agreed to new contract terms.
Boeing still evaluating thrust-link problem’s affect on 777-9 timeline
Boeing is working to determine the degree to which a problem involving 777-9 thrust-links could impact that type’s service-entry timeline.
Boeing grapples with financial and operational setbacks posed by machinists strike
The machinists strike now roiling Boeing threatens the company’s financial recovery and its ability to hike 737 production to 38 monthly by year-end.
Pentagon signs largest-ever order for Raytheon AMRAAM missiles
The $1.19 billion contract with Raytheon covers production Lot 38 of the venerable air-to-air missile and will see the munitions delivered to Japan, Ukraine and multiple NATO member states.
United to offer Starlink service for free wi-fi on all aircraft from 2025
United Airlines will offer customers free wireless internet service on all aircraft as it partners with Elon Musk’s Starlink network.
Air Transat hopes for additional lift with ‘Elevation’
Facing a host of issues, Air Transat has launched a new strategic programme that promises to improve pre-tax earnings by C$100 million
Alaska 737 blows tires during aborted take-off due to runway conflict at Nashville
An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 suffered blown tires after its pilots aborted take-off from Nashville on 12 September due to a Southwest Airlines 737 crossing the same runway.
Air Canada asks labour minister to block pilot strike as government pushes back
Air Canada is calling on Canada’s minister of labour to prohibit the airline’s pilots from walking off the job, though the minister insists the parties should reach an agreement without government interference.
US Army selects Anduril and Performance Drone Works to supply new tactical UAVs
The US Army jas selected two manufacturers, Anduril and Performance Drone Works, to provide the service with new uncrewed aerial vehicles that will support tactical-level ground troops in combat operations.
Anduril unveils low-cost Barracuda cruise missile designed for ‘hyper-scale’ production
The US defence start-up plans to develop a line of long-range precision munitions called Barracuda that are being designed for simplicity and rapid production at a mass scale.
Air Transat CEO blasts Air Canada request to government to prevent pilot strike
Air Transat chief executive Annick Guerard blasted competitor Air Canada for asking the Canadian government to intervene in a conflict with its pilots to avoid a strike set to begin later this week.
CrowdStrike outage prompts Delta to revise third-quarter financial expectations
Delta Air Lines has detailed the degree to which its July operational meltdown impacted its third-quarter revenue and expenses.
Transat struggles in fiscal third quarter amid lower yields and aircraft groundings
Transat AT, the parent of Canadian leisure operator Air Transat, has posted lower fiscal third-quarter earnings as aircraft availability due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues and lower yields put pressure on the company.
Lufthansa Technik names Vittadini as supervisory board chairperson
Lufthansa Technik has named Lufthansa Group chief technology officer Grazia Vittadini as its new supervisory board chairperson.
Heart unveils the HX-1, its first full-scale flight-test demonstrator
Sweden’s Heart Aerospace has unveiled its first full-scale flying demonstrator – the Heart Experimental 1 (HX-1) – a stepping-stone on the way to developing its hybrid-electric ES-30, an aircraft only announced two years ago.
Airbus targets 25% efficiency gain from next narrowbody with help from CFM’s RISE
Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury has made clear he expects the European airframer’s next narrowbody jet will be 25% more efficient than today’s models – and he is banking on CFM International’s in-development open-rotor engine to get there.
Safran pursues acquisition of Ohio-based engine repair company
French aerospace firm Safran is looking at acquiring an Ohio-based firm specialising in aircraft engine parts repair this year.
Airbus faces tough task to hit 2024 delivery target amid lingering parts shortages
Ongoing shortages of engines, cabin components and other parts have left Airbus challenged to hit its 2024 delivery goal, meaning the company needs to quickly ramp output to hit the target.
US Navy moves forward with new Low Band Jammer for EA-18G
A US Navy contract sets the stage for the Boeing EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft to receive an improved jamming capability.
Raytheon eyes F-22 modernisation amid US pause on sixth-generation fighter development
With senior US Air Force officials pausing to re-evaluate development of a sixth-generation fighter, defence contractors are eyeing potential modernisation opportunities for the service’s current air superiority platform – the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor.
Raytheon integrating air-to-air missiles into uncrewed fighter prototypes
The munitions producer says it is working with uncrewed aircraft designers Anduril and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, both of which are under contract by the US Air Force to deliver flight-capable prototypes of what the service calls Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
Piasecki completes first hover flight of tiltfan prototype
Piasecki is developing the Aerial Reconfigurable Embedded System as a multirole vertical take-off and landing UAV, with military applications in mind.
Gary Kelly and six of Southwest’s board members to resign at Elliott’s behest
Pressure from Elliott Investment Management has forced change at Southwest Airlines, which is now planning a major overhaul of the company’s board of directors.
Delta A350’s wing shears tail from regional subsidiary’s CRJ900 in ground collision
An MHIRJ CRJ900 regional jet was severely damaged from a 10 September ground collision with a Delta Air Lines’ Airbus A350 while both jets were on the taxiway at Hartsfield-Jackson International airport.
Boeing 737 deliveries to China reach highest monthly rate since 2019
Boeing in August delivered its highest monthly total of 737 Max jets to China since the Covid-19 pandemic overturned the airline industry.
US DoD picks eight providers to deliver $5.4b adversary training service
The US Department of Defense has named eight private companies who will provide adversary air and close air support training services until the end of this decade.
Top Aces F-16 fields pod-housed IRST to hone fifth-generation training for USAF
Top Aces has completed an infrared search and track (IRST) integration activity on a Lockheed Martin F-16 used to deliver adversary air training services to the US Air Force.
Air Canada prepares to shut down ahead of potential pilot strike
Air Canada is preparing to suspend “most of its operations” as a pilot strike looms amid ongoing negotiations with union the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) over a new contract.
Boeing and machinists union reach tentative contract deal ahead of 12 September member vote
Boeing and its machinists’ union have agreed to the terms of a new four-year employment contract, though the deal will not be final unless approved during a vote by union members scheduled for 12 September.
Cessna twinjet failed to gain altitude before striking power lines and restaurant: NTSB
A Cessna 550 Citation II that was destroyed in a fatal accident last month failed to gain more than 10ft of altitude before striking power lines and a restaurant near a Texas airfield.
US Special Operations cuts Armed Overwatch acquisition nearly 20%
US Special Operations Command is lowering its procurement target for the L3Harris OA-1K armed reconnaissance turboprop to 62 aircraft from the original target of 75, after scrutiny from government auditors.
Northrop releases first flight video of Scaled Composites Model 437 low-cost jet
US defence manufacturer Northrop Grumman says subsidiary Scaled Composites has successfully flown a low-cost, single-engined piloted jet called the Model 437 Vanguard.
Boeing faces potentially crippling strike as negotiations go ‘down to the wire’
Boeing’s 33,000 machinists seem increasingly likely to strike as soon as next Friday, a move that could bring the manufacturer’s operations in the Puget Sound region to a grinding halt.
WestJet to operate all nine 737 Max 8s previously leased by Lynx Air
Canadian carrier WestJet Airlines plans to add three more leased Boeing 737 Max 8s to its fleet, for a total of nine of the narrowbodies added in the past six months.
Allegiant’s chief marketing officer Scott DeAngelo resigns
Allegiant Travel Company, parent of ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air, has disclosed the resignation of chief marketing officer Scott DeAngelo, effective 30 September.
JetBlue’s revenue boosted by IT disruptions at major US airlines
JetBlue Airways effectively capitalised on the IT-related struggles of major US airlines that were forced to cancel thousands of flights starting in late July, boosting its third-quarter revenue projections.
Northrop aims to put F-16 survivability ‘on a par’ with fifth-generation fighters
The Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite is designed to provide the Lockheed Martin F-16 multi-role fighter expanded protection against modern air defences by disrupting the ability of enemy targeting radars to track the jet.
Beta lands deal to develop emergency response network in eastern USA
Electric aircraft developer Beta Technologies has landed a $20 million contract with the US Department of Health and Human Services to boost emergency preparedness in rural eastern US areas.
Certification of Eviation’s all-electric Alice pushes toward end of decade
Certification of Eviation’s Alice commuter appears more distant than the company had previously hoped.
Robinson and United Therapeutics gearing up to fly hydrogen-powered helicopters
Light rotorcraft maker Robinson Helicopter Company and biotechnology firm United Therapeutics have recently ground-tested an R44 modified with hydrogen fuel cells, and the companies say test flights are imminent.
Rate of large-aircraft accidents declined further in 2023
The number of aviation accidents involving large Western-made commercial jets declined in 2023 – and none caused fatalities, the first time that has happened since Boeing started collecting safety data decades ago.
Quebec to launch remotely piloted aircraft test centre
The facility in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region aims to support the operational needs of companies across the aerospace industry, including remote aircraft subsystem and payload integrators, original equipment manufacturers and aircraft end-users.
US seizes Falcon jet allegedly used to transport Venezuelan president
US authorities have seized a Dassault Falcon 900EX which is alleged to have been operated for the benefit of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, in violation of US export control and sanction laws.
RTX fined $200m for release of classified military aircraft data to Russia and China
US defence giant RTX, the parent company of Raytheon, Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney, agreed to a $200 million settlement with US government for the unauthorised release of sensitive data on nearly two dozen military aircraft to foreign adversaries.
Why Boeing’s former head of strategy signed up to lead Electra
Former Boeing executive Marc Allen thinks start-up Electra’s concept for a hybrid-electric, short take-off aircraft has far more commercial viability than other novel aircraft within the burgeoning advanced air mobility space.
Pentagon withholds some F-35 payments until full ‘TR-3’ capability certified
The Pentagon’s F-35 Joint Program Office will withhold $5 million per aircraft on deliveries until manufacturer Lockheed Martin completes full-combat flight certification on the latest configuration of the stealth fighter, known as Technical Refresh 3.