Avsnitt
-
The CEO of Heart Aerospace describes the development of a hybrid-electric 30-seat regional commercial aircraft. In the news, a near miss at Boston Logan between a landing Delta Air Lines flight and a departing American Airlines flight, NASA’s Advanced Aircraft Concepts for Environmental Sustainability 2050 (AACES) program, Canada’s purchase of F-35A fighters and possibly Saab Gripens, and Canada’s look at early-warning-radar planes.
GuestAnders Forslund is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Heart Aerospace, formed to electrify short-haul regional aviation. Heart Aerospace is developing the ES-30, a hybrid-electric 30-seat regional commercial aircraft. Heart is currently in upstate New York, testing the X1 demonstrator aircraft, which the company says will be the largest electric aircraft ever to fly. The company is backed by Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Ventures and Y Combinator, as well as operator/investors United Airlines and Air Canada.
Anders explains Heart Aerospace’s mission to lower the cost of air travel and how their clean-sheet Part 25 airliner will achieve about a 40% reduction in overall operating costs. The ES-30 will be an electric-motor-and-turboprop hybrid, while the full-scale X1 prototype is all-electric.
The X1 demonstrator has completed low-speed taxi testing at the company’s X1 flight-test base at Plattsburgh International Airport in upstate New York. First flight is expected shortly, with type certification planned for 2031.
Video: Heart X1 Completes Low-Speed Taxi Testing
https://youtu.be/5jkyKevsJNI?si=1xreSjh_gRcI6xu2Anders tells us about the Heart team and how aerospace development has changed in the last decade. The company strives to manage uncertainty rather than minimize it, holds itself accountable, and sets falsifiable goals.
Before starting Heart, Anders was an aerospace researcher at Chalmers, where he was a driving force behind the Elise-Electric Aviation research project in Sweden, funded by the Swedish innovation agency Vinnova. He spent 2013-2014 at MIT, where his work on geometric variation of aerospace components was awarded the Charles M. Manly Memorial Medal. He is also a founding member of the Nordic Network for Electric Aviation.
Anders has a Ph.D. in Aerospace Product Development and a B.Sc. in Engineering Physics from Chalmers. He has a dual M.Sc. in Astronautics and Space Engineering from Cranfield University and Luleå University, as part of the SpaceMaster program. He is also a member of Prince Daniel’s Fellowship for young entrepreneurs.
Follow Heart Aerospace on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
Aviation NewsHorrifying Near Miss at Boston Logan as Quick-Thinking Delta Air Pilots Go Around to Avoid Landing On Top of American Airlines Boeing 737Delta Air Lines flight DL-2351, an Airbus A319 flying from Dallas, was landing at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), was cleared to land on runway 33L. Moments later, American Airlines flight AA-3161, a Boeing 737-800, was cleared to take off for Charlotte from intersecting runway 27. The pilots repeated the instruction back to the controller, and after about 40 seconds, started the takeoff.
As Delta flight 2351 was about to touch down, the pilots saw the American Airlines plane and executed a go-around. That was followed by the air traffic controller asking the American flight, “American, where are you going?”
Listen to the Incident Audio via @xJonNYC.
Electra reveals 100-seat hybrid-electric aircraft conceptElectra developed the concept under NASA’s Advanced Aircraft Concepts for Environmental Sustainability 2050 (AACES) program. NASA has commissioned industry and academia to “develop transformative aircraft designs, propulsion technologies, and sustainability solutions for commercial aviation by 2050.”
Electra’s large airliner concept features a wide “double-bubble” fuselage that generates lift. Propulsion comes from two turbofans under the wings that produce thrust and electricity, as well as three fans mounted on the top of the aft fuselage. Electra says those fans would “ingest and re-energise slower-moving air over the fuselage, a technique known as boundary layer ingestion.”
Other AACES participants include the Georgia Institute of Technology with the Liquefied Natural Gas Powered Athena Aircraft Concept, and JetZero with a hydrogen fueled blended wing body design.
Congress Questions Air Force’s Combat Rescue Readiness As HH-60W Helicopters Get Turned Into VIP TransportsThe Senate Armed Services Committee filed S. 4784, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (NDAA), which establishes funding levels and authorities for the U.S. military. The 66th annual NDAA supports a total of $1.15 trillion in FY 2027 funding for national defense.
In its report [PDF], the Committee expresses concern “about combat search and rescue (CSAR) force structure in the Air Force. In recent years, the Air Force truncated the buy of HH-60Ws and has since transferred 26 HH-60Ws from units responsible for CSAR operations to the Air Force District Washington (AFDW) to replace H-1 helicopters. AFDW uses these helicopters to support contingency response, homeland operations, and ceremonial honors in the National Capital Region.
“The committee believes that these actions have left CSAR forces unnecessarily short of the forces needed to support CSAR operations in a major contingency. Therefore, the committee directs the Secretary of the Air Force to conduct a study of CSAR requirements and capabilities, including HH-60Ws and HC-130Js, and provide a report and briefing on that study to the congressional defense committees, not later than March 31, 2027.
“Furthermore, the committee directs the Secretary to avoid making any changes in CSAR force structure until the study is completed and he or she has provided the results of that study to the Congress.”
Canada Plans Fleet Surge to 140+ Fighters as Low Cost Gripens Reduce ExpensesAccording to informed sources, the Royal Canadian Air Force plans to grow its fighter fleet to 140, possibly by purchasing Saab Gripen jets. Canada has planed to purchase 88 F-35A fighters, but that could drop to 70, accompanied by 70 Gripens. Saab offered to establish final assembly, maintenance, and long-term industrial support in Canada. This would transfer technology and intellectual property to Canada. Under the F-35 program, sustainment and software updates are centralized in the United States.
Canada to buy Swedish surveillance plane over US modelsCanadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada would not purchase early-warning-radar planes from the United States. Instead, they will purchase Saab’s GlobalEye, which is based on the Bombardier Global 6500 jet, manufactured in Canada. Price and fleet size were not announced. Saab said in a statement that as part of any deal, the company would invest in research and development work in Canada.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and David Vanderhoof.
-
The U.S. plans to reduce the number of aircraft for NATO operations, another A-10 lifeline appears, and discussions about restarting C-17 production. Also, owner-produced airplane parts, airport weirdos, a new album from Speed Brake Armed, how the NTSB uses audio spectrograms, lying flat on a broken Polaris seat, and Roman Numerals.
Aviation NewsUS Plans Major Cut to Fighter Jets, Warships for NATO Operations in Europe, NYT ReportsCiting European officials, the New York Times reported that the U.S. plans to reduce the number of F-16 and F-15E fighter jets from roughly 150 to 100. Maritime reconnaissance aircraft would be cut from 26 to 15, and all eight aerial refueling tankers would be pulled.
The New York Times said the U.S. aims to redeploy a missile-launching submarine and an aircraft carrier, along with several warships and jets that join the carrier’s missions. One of two groups of bombers previously assigned for Europe’s defense may also be reallocated. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart told Reuters, “Historically, there has been an over-reliance on U.S. forces and capabilities.” The U.S. European Command said in a statement that it would “rightsize” its contributions to the NATO Force Model.
Congress Throws A-10 Warthog Another LifelineThe A-10 end of life is scheduled for 2030. Depot-level maintenance has stopped, and the 571st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, has ended. The A-10 Weapons School is scheduled to end this year.
However, an amendment to the House Armed Services Committee’s version of the National Defense Authorization bill seeks to keep the Warthog alive. The amendment calls for the Air Force to keep supporting A-10 training, testing, experimentation, maintenance, and sustainment efforts. Other requirements include preserving lessons learned and operational expertise and maintaining a formal pilot training unit.
A-10 Warthog’s New Aerial Refueling Probe Is Now Operational In The Middle EastThe A-10C is now operating in the Middle East with the new probe-and-drogue refueling capability. First demonstrated in early April, it took only six weeks to become operational. Previously, the A-10 could only refuel from a KC-135. The KC-46 was not yet certified to refuel the Warthog due to the “stiff boom” problem, which could damage the receiving aircraft. Now A-10s can refuel KC-46s with the probe or from HC-130s, MC-130s, Marine Corps KC-130s, and KC-130Js from other operators.
A-10 with refueling probe. USAF photo.Boeing “Encouraged” By C-17 Production Restart DiscussionsRestarting C-17 Globemaster III production would be extremely difficult, extremely expensive, but not impossible. There is interest from various operators and from the U.S. Congress, which has asked the Air Force to prepare a formal briefing on the feasibility of acquiring new C-17s. Driving USAF interest is a succession of crises in recent years that have put serious strain on the aircraft, and questions have been raised about the viability of the current plan to keep them flying through 2075.
The C-17 is powered by the F117-PW-100, which is the military variant of the PW2000 family (the same engine that powers the Boeing 757). New engine production for the PW2000 stopped in 2016, and the USAF is currently depending on overhauls of existing engines to keep the fleet flying. So the MRO infrastructure, engineering expertise, and supply chain for supporting this engine remain very much alive.
In March 2025, RTX announced agreements with JetZero to integrate the PW2040 engine and APU into its blended-wing-body demonstrator. So P&W is actively working on the PW2040 for a new application, which suggests the engine isn’t entirely dormant in their engineering ecosystem. The decision to restart the engine isn’t just a P&W decision. The risk-sharing partners, like MTU Aero Engines, have to be on board.
There are 222 C-17s in service with the U.S. Air Force today. The last plane was delivered in 2013, and Boeing shut down the line in 2015. Australia, Canada, India, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom operate the C-17.
C-17. USAF photo.Listener MailEclipse spare partsMark writes regarding the discussion about Eclipse parts from Episode 896 and notes that FAR 21.9(a)(5) creates a framework for owner-produced parts. Where a certified part is unavailable, owners of certified aircraft can “produce” their own. And they can do that either by making it themselves or by contracting out its production to a suitably qualified supplier.
There are rules about quality and the requirement that owner-produced parts be of equivalent specification to OEM parts, but as long as an aircraft owner can put their hand on their heart and assert that those conditions are met, they can supply parts to their maintainer and tell them to install them. See this AOPA guidance.
Airport WeirdoKoeby has developed a crowdsourced gallery of airport weirdos, where travelers submit funny photos of strange things they spot in airports. No account is needed; you can just submit your photo, and it will be added to the gallery. It’s called Airport Weirdo.
New Album release by Speed Brake ArmedPete Buffington tells us about Speed Brake Armed’s new New Age album “Echoes Above the Infinite Sky.” This album takes the listener on a journey of flight from South America, to Spain, to the Cosmos, and back to ancient Greece. Inspired by over 35 years of real pilot experience.
Video: 737 Echoes Above The Infinite Sky | Speed Brake Armed | Full Album | New Age Aviation Music
https://youtu.be/slO-4xnVqHgSpectrogramsAndy adds his perspective about the conversation on spectrograms in NTSB investigations. While he has absolutely no actual knowledge about NTSB processes or how they actually use spectrograms, he speculates based on his experience as an audio engineer for over 30 years:
“Spectrograms have been a tool I use fairly regularly in production. To me, it mostly comes down to being able to recognize things that are hard to pick out. For instance, if there is some kind of unpleasant noise in the background of a recording, sometimes I can identify it and potentially filter it out, purely by ear. Other times, particularly if it’s not very far above the noise floor, it can be very difficult to pick out by ear. In that case, I’ll often look at a spectrogram. It’s certainly not always helpful, but sometimes there are things that I can pick out visually that I can’t pick out audibly…
“So I can imagine that in a cockpit recording with a lot of background noise, examining the spectrogram might allow patterns to be detected that would not be obvious audibly. My guess is that they wouldn’t be looking at the speech, but rather for indications in sound of what was happening mechanically.
“For instance, if there was sound at a particular frequency, happening at a particular interval regularly, that might be an indication of something. That’s the sort of thing that you can often see on a spectrogram even if it is audibly buried in the noise floor.”
14 Hours Lying FlatPatrick thinks maybe United could have done better: 14 Hours Lying Flat: United Polaris Passenger Pays $7,400, Gets Just $350 For Broken Seat.
A United Airlines passenger has recounted her experience of flying in a faulty Polaris seat. She was forced to sit in a lie-flat position for the entire journey. After complaining, United offered her only $350. The ticket cost $7,388.
DCCCXCIVRob wrote in to say he enjoyed the value that Erin Applebaum brought to Episode 894. Also, that “with the very welcome return of David, this episode may well be the first podcast ever where the hosts have an odd number of kidneys!!” We also got a refresher on Roman Numerals.
MentionedThe Great State of Maine Airshow, Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12, 2026, at Brunswick Executive Airport (the former Brunswick Naval Air Station).
DARPA Lift Challenge at the National Museum of the Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. Aug. 5-9.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and David Vanderhoof.
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
Our guest purchased the assets of planemaker Sonex and restarted the company. In the news, Customs and Border Protection officers at airports, Eclipse 500 spare parts availability, a Spitfire kit plane, recreating cockpit voice recorder audio from spectrograms, and a new website to track ATC modernization progress.
GuestStephen Osborne is the owner and founder of Top Aviation Services and the president and CEO of The Osborne Company. Shortly after planemaker Sonex shut down, he purchased its assets and reopened operations as Sonex Aviation LLC.
Sonex has a history of providing the recreational aviation community with innovative and affordable aircraft kits, powerplants, and accessories. The company is a leader in the homebuilt space and works to cultivate new pilots and airplane builders through educational efforts.
Stephen describes how he quickly moved to purchase the Sonex assets, resume shipping kits, and set the tone for the company’s future. Sonex has a strong “work family” environment that serves not only employees but also customers and vendors. As Sonex moves forward, its success will be built on those core values and the mission to make aviation affordable for everyone.
Stephen is a military veteran and former U.S. Army Captain and FAA-certificated commercial pilot. Top Aviation provides FAA-certified flight training for Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, and Commercial, as well as discovery flights and aircraft rentals at KTOP in Topeka, Kansas. The Osborne Company is a general contracting firm specializing in the design and installation of electric vehicle and aircraft charging infrastructure across the United States.
Group photo of employees, courtesy Sonex.Aviation NewsFeds Mull Pulling Customs From New York, LA, Chicago, and Other Airports in ‘Sanctuary Cities’Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has suggested removing Customs and Border Protection officers from airports in so-called sanctuary cities where local authorities do not assist federal immigration investigations. Those cities include New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco international hubs. In a recent congressional hearing, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said, “We shouldn’t shut down air travel in a state that doesn’t agree with our politics.”
Airlines and business groups warn of chaos if US restricts international flightsIn a joint statement, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Airlines for America, the National Retail Federation, U.S. Travel, and other groups said the move “threatens to cause unnecessary chaos throughout the nation’s air transportation system.”
“Any reduction in Customs and Border Protection operations at major U.S. gateway airports threatens to cause unnecessary chaos throughout the nation’s air transportation system. International aviation networks are highly interconnected, and operational changes at a small number of gateway airports will quickly ripple across the country, negatively impacting travelers, cargo shipments, supply chains, and the communities that depend on those connections. Airports and airlines rely on stable, predictable federal inspection services to keep people and commerce moving safely and efficiently. We urge DHS to avoid actions that would create unnecessary operational and economic consequences for communities nationwide. As the United States prepares for growing international travel demand, DHS should avoid actions that would create unnecessary bottlenecks and economic consequences for communities across the country. Now is the time to strengthen America’s gateway infrastructure, not weaken it.”
See also, Airlines urge Trump administration not to curb international flights in feud over ‘sanctuary cities’
Eclipse Aero Says It Has about 3 Years of Parts in StockEclipse supplier Resurgent Aviation Solutions (RAS) says on its webpage that the company “has elected to wind down all business operations and liquidate all remaining assets. All finished goods will be made available for outright purchase using an auction format. The liquidation will be completed over several auctions over the next two months.”
Spitfire could return to production 90 years after first flightAn original Supermarine Spitfire will set you back about £3 million. The new Aerolite Spitfire Type 433 has been constructed at a cost of about £750,000. The composite kit plane is touring the UK this spring and summer at air shows and military and classic motor festivals.
Great British Supermarine Ltd, is the manufacturer. Chief executive Jeremy Meeson, said: “The moment is right to reimagine the Supermarine Spitfire because today’s materials, propulsion, and digital engineering finally let us evolve an icon without losing what made it exceptional.”
A PDF let the internet hear the final words in the cockpit of a UPS plane as it crashed. The NTSB now wants it taken downThe NTSB does not release cockpit voice recordings made during an accident. Other evidence from investigations is released to the public, including photographs, videos, maps, and other data. During a two-day investigative hearing on the UPS flight 2976 accident, a PDF file was released that showed an analysis of the spectrogram of the audio recorded by the CVR.
However, the NTSB was not aware “that advances in image recognition and computational methods have enabled individuals to reconstruct approximations of cockpit voice recorder audio from sound spectrum imagery.” Subsequently, the NTSB closed public access to all dockets.
Spectrogram of the spoken words in a clip from Airplane Geeks Episode 895. Frequencies are on the vertical axis, and time is on the horizontal axis.NBAA Welcomes New Website to Track ATC Modernization ProgressThe National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) expressed its support for a new online dashboard developed by the Department of Transportation and the FAA to provide updates on the status of modernization of the country’s air traffic control (ATC) network. The Modern Skies dashboard provides information on ATC modernization projects already underway and updates at more than 4,600 FAA sites across the country, along with a map overlay detailing specific efforts.
MentionedRob Mark and Max Trescott were shortlisted for the Aerospace Media Award in the Best Multimedia category for Episode 26 of NTSB News Talk – March 25, 2026 LaGuardia Plane Crash Into Fire Truck + Rob Mark on Losing a Pilot Friend. The Aerospace Media Awards will be presented on the evening of 19th July at No 8 Northumberland Avenue, London. The 2026 Call for Nominations closed with a record 700 nominations.
Amelia Earhart is back in Harbour Grace as stolen statue returns home
Infighting, court battles could put long-hyped air taxi breakthrough in jeopardy
An Air Taxi Lands in Manhattan, but You Can’t Fly in It Yet
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and David Vanderhoof.
-
We speak with the founder and CEO of Points Path, which helps travelers get the most up-to-date pricing from both Google and airlines.
GuestJulian Kheel is the founder and CEO of Points Path, a browser extension that helps you make informed travel purchases. Points Path performs the same flight search with Google Flights for each of its covered airlines, but requests prices in points or miles rather than cash. The results are then combined with Google’s results, so you see the most up-to-date pricing available from both Google and the airlines themselves.
In the free extension, Points Path offers award pricing for the frequent flyer programs of Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, and United. Paid Pro tier and Founders Club members also get access to Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air France/KLM, Avianca, Emirates, Etihad, Qantas, Qatar, TAP Air Portugal, Virgin Atlantic, and Virgin Australia. All tiers include domestic and international flights on the airlines themselves, as well as flights with partner airlines.
The free version of the Points Path extension includes real-time, true round-trip points pricing for US domestic airline programs, as well as bank transfer programs for those airlines, indicators when a transfer bonus is in effect, and deal recommendation arrows. Points Path Pro is a paid upgrade that adds more airlines, price-tracking alerts, a 7-day points calendar, and other features.
Julian has extensive industry knowledge. He was previously Editorial Director of The Points Guy, as well as CNN’s Senior Editor covering travel and credit card rewards, and also worked as a consultant for the “Big 3” airlines. He has appeared on CNBC’s Squawk Box, Bloomberg Surveillance, and other TV programs to discuss frequent-flyer miles and has been quoted on travel rewards in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and many other national publications.
Julian was kind enough to offer Airplane Geeks listeners a discount code for the Pro version. Use airplanegeeks15 at checkout.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, Brian Coleman, and our Main(e) Man Micah.
-
U.S. Navy E/A-18G Growler jet collision, Boeing’s China order, the new target for air traffic controller staffing, new United flight attendant contract, domestic flight lengths, Boeing civil suit award, and a tribute to a flight instructor.
Aviation NewsGrowlers Collide at Air Show, Four Good ChutesTwo U.S. Navy E/A-18G Growler jets collided midair during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. All four Washington-based pilots ejected. The jets exploded upon impact with the ground. The Gunfighter Skies Air Show (May 16-17, 2026) was a free event open to the public and featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
The Growler is a variant of the Super Hornet with advanced sensors and jamming pods. The VAQ-129 “Vikings” EA-18G Growler Demo Team showcases the platform for tactical jamming and electronic attack.
Video: Deep Intel on the Growler Midair at Idaho Airshow
https://youtu.be/eR6yXoyaarY?si=o_ZO4iqfplgNIfNGBoeing China Order Disappoints, Stock FallsLast week, we reported that Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg was joining President Trump on his visit to China. There was anticipation for a 500-airplane deal, but it appears the negotiation resulted in a 200-airplane purchase. No other details were available at the time.
FAA cuts target for air traffic control staffingThe FAA has a new target for air traffic control staffing: 12,563 certified controllers. The previous target was 14,633 controllers. That’s a reduction of 2,070 controllers, or 14%.
Controller overtime costs have gone up more than 300% since 2013, according to a National Academies of Sciences report. Air traffic is up, but time spent on position managing air traffic has gone down. The FAA said, “Deploying modern staffing models and scheduling tools will improve controller staffing efficiency and reduce the need for excessive overtime.”
The FAA said about 11,000 certified controllers are deployed, 4,000 are in training, including 1,000 who were previously fully certified and are training at new air traffic control facilities.
United Flight Attendants Ratify Contract — Top Pay Will Exceed $100/Hour, $740M Lump Sum PayoutUnited Airlines flight attendants ratified the tentative agreement that was reached in March. Almost 89% of eligible union members voted, and of those who did, 82% approved the contract. Flight attendants get their first raise in 5.5 years, almost 20% over the life of the contract.
Short flights are popular. Will they last?There are many more scheduled short domestic flights in the U.S. than long ones, but over the past 10 years, the number of flights of 500 miles or less has decreased, while the number of longer flights has increased.
Jury awards $49.5M to family of Boeing 737 MAX crash victimSamya Stumo was a 24-year-old who was killed in the crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, a Boeing 737 MAX 8, in 2019. Like other victims’ families, Stumo’s family brought a civil suit against Boeing. Most of those other suits were settled out of court. Stumo’s family did not reach a settlement, and the case went to trial focusing on compensation. Boeing had previously admitted liability.
A federal jury in Chicago awarded $21 million for Stumo’s death, $16.5 million for the family’s loss of companionship, and $12 million for the family’s grief.
4 killed in medical plane crash in Capitan Mountains identifiedThe Australia News DeskSteve Visscher’s tribute to Gary Bittle, his flight instructor and friend.
Gary Bittle and Steve VisscherMentionedFIFI, taken from the backseat of Gunfighter, a P-51 Mustang, by listener Chris.Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Erin Applebaum.
-
AirAsia places a large A220 order, a Frontier jet collides with a pedestrian, Boeing hopes for a mega-deal in China, power banks in the cabin are in the cross-hairs, the Senate hopes to save the last three Tomcats, and FedEx plans to return MD-11s to service. Also, preliminary information about AvCon 2027, upcoming airshows and fly-ins, and a detailed explanation of weight and balance for airliners.
Aviation NewsAir Asia orders for 150 A220s, giving program a big boost; launches high density versionAirAsia becomes the launch customer for a 160 PAX high-density version of the Airbus A220 currently under development. The order from the Malaysian LCC brings total A220 orders to more than 1,000. Airbus wants to increase the production rate to 14 per month, and this order will help. Deliveries could begin in late 2027 or early 2028.
Credit: AirbusTony Fernandes, Chief Executive Officer of Capital A (the holding company of AirAsia), said “My philosophy has been built on a very strong network. Two of the driving factors of AirAsia’s network are that 60% of our routes are routes that were never done before. We go into secondary and tertiary cities. And the second underlying principle of what we do is frequency. So, obviously, we’ve bought a lot of A321s, which have 244 seats. Not every route pairing could fill 244 seats.”
Person who jumped perimeter fence is hit and killed by Frontier plane during takeoff on Denver runway, airport saysA person crossed the perimeter fence and a runway at Denver International Airport and was subsequently struck and killed by a departing Frontier Airlines plane, Flight 4345. The flight was aborted, and a brief engine fire was extinguished. Twelve people reported minor injuries in the evacuation, and five were taken to local hospitals.
Potential 600-aircraft Boeing mega-order from China hinges on Trump-Xi summitPresident Donald Trump’s business delegation is visiting China, and Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg is reportedly attending. Thirteen Chinese domestic carriers operate 97 737 MAX aircraft, and Boeing is hopeful that with Trump’s help, as many as 500 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and about 100 widebody jets can be ordered. In April 2026, Ortberg said, “Without the administration’s support, I don’t think we’ll see any near-term large orders out of China. It really is something that would be tied to the effort from the administration.”
The CAAC does not simply rubber-stamp Western approvals. It runs a parallel, sovereign certification process based on the Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA) signed by the US and China in 2005, with the operational details specified in the Implementation Procedures for Airworthiness (IPA).
Airlines Are Cracking Down on Portable Power BanksAccording to ICAO, power banks caused more reported airplane fires and thermal runaway incidents than any other lithium-battery device in 2025. FAA data shows that airlines reported lithium battery events involving fire, smoke, or extreme heat nearly twice a week on average in 2025. Airlines ban power banks in checked luggage and are now implementing new rules for these devices brought on board.
‘Maverick Act’ saves last 3 F-14 Tomcats from destructionThe US Navy has just three remaining F-14D Tomcats. The aircraft were retired in 2006, but the U.S. Senate wants to ensure that those three jets survive and maybe even fly. S. 4161, the Maverick Act, passed by the Senate but not yet enacted, authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer the three F-14D Tomcats to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama. The Commission could put the aircraft on display or operate them at “an airshow … or a commemorative event to preserve United States naval aviation heritage.”
FedEx’s MD-11 comeback to start with short cargo flight to MiamiFedEx hopes to repair and return to service 29 grounded MD-11 freighter aircraft. The company proposes to send technicians to 16 locations worldwide, where they will remove the engine pylons and transport them to maintenance facilities in Indianapolis and Memphis. There, Boeing redesigned bearings will be installed, and the pylons will be returned to the aircraft. MD-11 operations were halted after the November 4, 2025, crash of UPS Flight 2976 in Louisville, Kentucky.
See: FAA Ends MD-11 Grounding After Boeing Review
MentionedAvCon is billed as “The world’s only convention built for aviation fans by aviation creators.” The organizers say, “Based on the success of 2026, we’ve extended this – so for THREE amazing days, we’re taking over the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Orlando, Florida for panels, merch, meet-ups, and good old-fashioned AvGeek fun. Whether you’re a YouTube fan, private pilot, model collector, or airline loyalty nerd — join us aboard.” May 21, 21 & 22 2027” [sic]. Hyatt Regency, Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Stories about Flying: When a Standard Instrument Departure Becomes Hazardous to Your Professional Health. A routine instrument departure turns into a career-defining moment when poor cockpit communication and rushed decisions lead to a serious ATC deviation. In this episode, Rob Mark shares how one flight exposed the dangers of weak Crew Resource Management—and the hard lesson that remaining silent can be just as risky as making the wrong call.
The Great State of Maine Airshow, July 11 and 12, 2026, at Brunswick Executive Airport (former Brunswick Naval Air Station) and featuring the Blue Angels, the F-35 Demo Team, and the C-17 Demo Team.
The 29th Annual Spurwink Farm Pancake Breakfast and Fly-In, Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
Why Insurance Breaks The Uber-In-The-Air Fantasy
Video: United — Safety in Motion
https://youtu.be/Jep3RR2yEXA?si=4N4BMvuZtmTAAK0sVideo: A Hundred Years of Safety – Delta’s 2025 Centennial Safety Video
https://youtu.be/mnOLUnExHvw?si=6alarZQtV1keuXF2Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
Spirit Airlines shuts down, aircraft technicians are in short supply, Sonex reopens while WACO closes, China Eastern Flight 5735 was intentionally crashed, NTSB’s United 1382 final report, United 169 truck strike, ground vehicle transponders, and the Jeju Flight 2216 accident in South Korea.
-
Dynamic airline ticket pricing, Blackhawk helicopter altitude instrumentation, a U.S. Government equity position in Spirit Airlines, the NTSB preliminary report on the fatal LGA accident, capacity cuts at airports, AI-enabled ATC, the Digital Tower Technology Coalition, and SpaceX Starlink in-motion aviation plans.
Aviation NewsJetBlue sued over claims it uses customers’ personal data to set ticket pricesAirline executives have told Congress that personal data is not used to dynamically set ticket prices. However, a complaint has been filed in federal court alleging that JetBlue uses “trackers” and shares data with third parties to dynamically set prices. This stems from an exchange on X where a passenger complained about a ticket price increase and JetBlue responded by saying the passenger should try “clearing your cache and cookies or booking with an incognito window.” JetBlue later stated that the response was incorrect and added that “fares can change at any moment as seats are purchased or as inventory is adjusted based on demand”.
Army aviation chief: D.C. crash ‘wasn’t about’ outdated Black Hawk cockpitAt a media briefing on Bell’s MV-75 tiltrotor, The Air Current asked the commanding general of Army Aviation, Maj. Gen. Clair Gill, whether last year’s fatal midair collision between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet changed the Army’s thinking about fielding the Black Hawk’s partial replacement. Gill answered, “No, it’s completely unrelated.” The MV-75 will have “a more advanced cockpit, but the D.C. crash really wasn’t about whether or not it was an advanced cockpit or not.” This implied that faulty altimeters and outdated avionics in the accident helicopter did not substantially contribute to the crash.
The NTSB found that altitude exceedances on the Washington, D.C., helicopter routes were likely exacerbated by inaccurate altimeters on older UH-60L “Lima” Black Hawks, including the one involved in the crash.
Possible Spirit rescue fuels new fears about government involvement in businessThe Federal government is considering an equity deal to keep Spirit Airlines afloat. Under the proposal, the airline would receive $500 million, providing additional liquidity as Spirit works to emerge from bankruptcy. The U.S. government could own up to 90% of the airline, according to sources.
Reportedly, the government would charge Spirit a reasonable interest rate and move to the top of the debtor list. CBS News says, “The loan would be protected by Spirit assets that would exceed the government’s costs, and would provide taxpayers with a warrant — the right to own 90% of the company after it emerges from bankruptcy.” Also, “The Pentagon would use Spirit’s excess capacity for transporting troops, military cargo, or other missions. The airline would then likely be sold to another carrier.”
See:
Spirit Airlines nears deal with Trump administration for $500 million rescue packageWhite House mulls using Defense Production Act in Spirit Airlines takeoverTed Cruz pours cold water on Trump administration plan to bail out Spirit Airlines: TERRIBLE idea’NTSB Report LGA Air Canada Incident [PDF]On March 22, 2026, Jazz Aviation LP flight 646 (operating as Air Canada flight 8646), a CRJ-900, was substantially damaged after it collided with Rescue 35 (R35), an Oshkosh Striker 1500 aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) vehicle, while landing on runway 4 at LaGuardia Airport. The captain and first officer were fatally injured.
Of the 2 flight attendants, 72 passengers, and 2 crew of the ARFF vehicle, 39 were transported to local hospitals with 6 serious injuries reported. The airplane was a Part 129 scheduled flight from Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), Montreal, Quebec, to LGA.
A review of the ASDE-X system data by the FAA determined that the system did not generate an aural or visual alert on the ASDE-X displays in the LGA ATC tower to warn controllers of the potential runway conflict.
FAA orders Chicago O’Hare International Airport to cut over 300 planned flights daily between May and OctoberThe FAA is ordering flight reductions at Chicago O’Hare International Airport over the summer travel season. 3,080 daily flights were scheduled for peak summer days in 2026. Now O’Hare flights will be restricted to 2,708 per day from May 17 to Oct. 24. This change is motivated by capacity and operational delay concerns.
The FAA said it intends to bring in more air traffic controllers, speed up controller training, reduce delays by optimizing routes and airspace, and increase communication between the agency, the airport, and airlines during high-risk periods.
FAA quietly developing AI enabled air traffic management systemThe Strategic Management of Airspace Routing Trajectories (SMART) is an artificial intelligence-powered software tool designed for air traffic management. People familiar with the project say it could fundamentally change how the U.S. airspace system operates.
Palantir, Thales, and Airspace Intelligence (ASI) are competing on the initiative. Operational start could be as early as later this year. The system could enable the FAA to plan for bottlenecks and anticipate schedule conflicts before an aircraft even leaves the ground. This contrasts with today’s human-centric, reactive ATC structure.
Digital Tower Technology Coalition Pushing Remote ATCThe Digital Tower Technology Coalition “is an alliance of stakeholders advocating for the FAA’s implementation of the digital tower program, as outlined in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. By leveraging U.S. airports, regional partners, air traffic controllers, original equipment manufacturers, and federal partners, our coalition seeks to ensure an efficient and transparent process while strengthening U.S. global competitiveness in cutting-edge aviation technology.”
See the Press Release: Introducing the Digital Tower Technology Coalition, Representing Bold Commitment to Innovation in Effort to Modernize U.S. Aviation [PDF]
SpaceX Cuts Starlink Aviation Prices – New GA Plans Start at $200/MonthWhen SpaceX imposed a 100 mph speed cap on all non-aviation plans, general aviation pilots were forced to switch to more expensive aviation-specific tiers. That generated an outcry from the flying community, including a petition with over 9,500 signatures. GA pilots had been using Starlink Roam for $50 per month with a 100GB data cap. Now SpaceX has made some changes to its in-motion aviation plans.
Aviation 300MPH is renamed General Aviation Local 50GB, the price is lowered to $200 per month (from $250), and the monthly data limit is increased to 50GB (from 20GB). Additional data can be purchased in 50GB blocks for $25 (from $10 per GB).
The Aviation 450 MPH plan is now General Aviation Global 50GB, which is still $1,000 per month, but the monthly data cap has been increased to 50GB (from 20GB). Additional data can be purchased in 50GB blocks for $100 (from $50 per GB).
MentionedSwiss cheesemakers allowed to artificially make holes in Emmental cheese
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
More on the Laguardia crash from the NTSB and ASDE-X; a near-collision at LAX involving a Frontier flight and two trucks; a United Airlines plane struck two de-icing trucks; the FAA requested funding for 2,300 controller trainees; a Navy MQ-4C Triton reconnaissance drone went missing; and air taxis are coming to Utah.
Aviation NewsSeconds before LaGuardia crash, controller cleared the fire truck to cross the runway, NTSB saysThe NTSB has determined that a LaGuardia Airport air traffic controller cleared the fire truck to cross a runway 12 seconds before the Air Canada flight touched down. The two pilots were killed in the resulting collision. The NTSB has yet to identify how this was allowed to happen.
Unanswered questions:
Are two overnight duty controllers enough?Why didn’t a runway warning system sound an alert?Who was coordinating air and ground traffic?Did the fire truck hear the controller’s last-second pleas to stop?LaGuardia has an advanced surface surveillance system called Airport Surface Detection Equipment, Model X (ASDE-X). This system displays the locations of planes and vehicles to the Controllers. The fire truck didn’t have a transponder, but the emergency vehicles behind it stopped in time. Possibly, the close proximity of the vehicles merging kept the system from triggering an alarm.
ASDE-X is a surveillance system that uses radar, multilateration, and satellite technology to allow air traffic controllers to track the surface movement of aircraft and vehicles. It was developed to help reduce critical Category A and B runway incursions.
ASDE-X overview from FAA presentation.The ASDE-X collects data from a variety of sensors:
Surface surveillance radar located on top of the air traffic control tower and/or surface surveillance radar located on a remote towerMultilateration (MLat) sensors located around the airportAirport Surveillance Radars, such as the Mode SAutomatic Dependent Surveillance — Broadcast (ADS-B) sensorsTerminal automation system to obtain flight plan data.Multilateration (MLat) sensors determine an object’s position by measuring the time differences of signals received from multiple known locations. They are commonly used in applications such as air traffic control and navigation to accurately track the locations of vehicles or devices.
Frontier Airlines Pilots ‘Slam On the Brakes’ to Avoid Colliding With Two Trucks at Los Angeles International AirportFrontier Airlines flight F9-3216, an Airbus A321, was taxiing for departure at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) when it encountered two trucks that cut it off. To avoid a collision, the pilots were forced to “slam on the brakes.”
The Frontier pilot told LAX controllers, “It happened so fast, both of us are like holy shit and slammed on the brakes… I might have to call the flight attendants, make sure everyone is alright in the back. It was real close… close as I’ve ever seen.”
Plane suffered ‘substantial’ damage after hitting de-icing trucks at Denver airportOn March 6, 2026, a United Airlines plane struck two de-icing trucks at Denver International Airport (DIA) as it was taxiing out of the de-icing pad. No on-board injuries occurred, although one de-icing agent suffered minor injuries. The plane suffered substantial damage. There was some confusion about whether the plane had been cleared to leave the de-icing pad.
FAA proposes to hire 2,300 air traffic controllers in budget requestAt the end of September, the FAA employed 13,164 air traffic controllers, about 3,500 short of the targeted staffing level. The FAA’s fiscal 2027 budget request proposes funding to hire 2,300 air traffic controller trainees, with about $95.4 million earmarked for that effort. A WSOC Charlotte, SC video reports that gamers are being offered paid training and other incentives if they apply.
Navy MQ-4C Triton’s Fate Unknown After Disappearing From Flight Tracking Over Persian GulfOpen-source tracking indicates the surveillance drone suddenly turned toward Iran and transmitted the universal 7700 emergency code. It descended from more than 50,000 feet toward approximately 9,000 feet, then disappeared from public tracking networks.
The Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton is the maritime version of RQ-4 Global Hawk. It is a high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) unmanned surveillance aircraft flown by the United States Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force. The Navy had 20 Triton aircraft in service in 2025, and had planned to acquire seven more. The unit cost was estimated to be just over $238 million.
See: US Navy MQ-4C Triton Vanishes Near Iran After Emergency Code: Did Tehran Just Down America’s US$200 Million Spy Drone?
Utah’s getting air taxis sooner than expected. Here’s when.Paul Damron, the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) air mobility program manager, says unmanned electric aircraft might be carrying packages and medical supplies as early as this summer. The FAA has designated UDOT to lead one of eight national pilot programs focused on integrating electric aircraft into various airspaces.
Initially operating out of Utah’s airports, the long-term goal is to create “vertiports” and connect them to existing transit modes. Under the uFLY pilot program, Utah leads a five-state partnership with Oregon, Idaho, Arizona, and Oklahoma. Aircraft will be tested under a variety of environmental conditions.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
The decline of enjoyment in today’s air travel experience, special TSA treatment for Congress members, consolidating ATC functions, TRACON evacuations, Artemis II, Part 141 training organizations, and aerial refueling. Also, Av-Con 2026, Spacewoman documentary, “souls onboard,” and EAS.
Aviation News‘The alarm bells are going off’: Air travel hits new lowsRecent events have made commercial air travel a difficult proposition for many air travelers. We see increasing fuel costs and increasing ticket prices, long lines at some security checkpoints, TSA workers absent, recent accidents, air traffic controller shortages, equipment malfunctions, and more.
The U.S. Travel Association’s senior vice president of government relations, Erik Hansen, said of passengers, “What they’re seeing is chaos, and what they’re seeing is a system that doesn’t work.”
Delta suspends special congressional services amid shutdownIn a statement to The Hill, Delta said, “Due to the impact on resources from the longstanding government shutdown, Delta will temporarily suspend specialty services to members of Congress flying Delta. Next to safety, Delta’s no. 1 priority is taking care of our people and customers, which has become increasingly difficult in the current environment.” Those services have included airport escorts and red coat services.
Senate passes measure prohibiting preferential airport screening for lawmakersJust days before the Delta action, the U.S. Senate unanimously approved a proposal to end the special treatment members of Congress get at airports. That included permitting members of Congress to speed through or skip security screening checkpoints. To become law, the House would have to pass the bill, and the President would have to sign it.
LaGuardia controller staffing may have violated procedures on night of collision, document showsOn March 22, 2026, an Air Canada jet landing at LaGuardia struck a fire truck, killing both pilots. LaGuardia tower’s standard operating procedures specify that a controller cannot perform both air and ground duties. The NTSB is investigating the roles of the controllers at the time of the crash.
A 2023 rule in the LaGuardia Tower Standard Operating Procedures states, “Positions at LaGuardia Tower are not to be consolidated to one position prior to midnight local time or 90 minutes after the start of the shift, whichever is later.” Those familiar with the matter said the rule remained in effect in 2026.
D.C.-area ATC evacuations followed 2025 smoke event which injured controllersOn March 13, 2026, FAA operations were disrupted after Potomac Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) reported a strong smell. Fire responders investigated, and the source was identified as an overheated circuit board. That incident caused a ground stop lasting a little over two hours, affecting DCA, IAD, BWI, and nearby airports.
On March 27, 2026, the TRACON was evacuated again after another strong chemical smell, reportedly originating from an overheated battery backup or other electrical component in the break room/IT area. That second evacuation also triggered ground stops and significant delays across the region.
A similar event occurred in April 2025, when smoke entered the Potomac TRACON control room. That incident did not lead to an evacuation, but did leave multiple controllers with health issues severe enough to affect their medical certificates.
Artemis II Headed for the MoonThe Artemis II Mission flew four astronauts around the moon before returning them to Earth. The planned 10-day test flight is the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972 that humans have departed Earth orbit. NASA’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion spacecraft lifted off from Launch Pad 39B at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 6:35 p.m. EDT on April 1, 2026.
The Artemis III mission will launch a crew in the Orion spacecraft atop the SLS rocket to test rendezvous and docking capabilities between Orion and commercial spacecraft (SpaceX and Blue Origin) needed to land astronauts on the Moon. NASA will announce specifics on the Artemis III mission design and crew closer to the 2027 launch.
Artemis IV astronauts will travel to lunar orbit, where two crew members will descend to the surface and spend approximately a week near the Moon’s South Pole conducting new science before returning to lunar orbit to rejoin their crew for the journey back to Earth.
Report Calls for Major Flight Training ChangesThe FAA has released a 471-page report by the National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA) titled A Comprehensive Modernization of Pilot Training Conducted by 14 CFR Part 141 Training Organizations, which states:
“The goal of this modernization effort is unambiguous: to develop a robust certification and regulatory framework under 14 CFR Part 141 that stands alone as the preeminent accreditation and method by which aviators are trained throughout the world. Under this new framework, achieving FAA certification would represent the highest standard of training excellence available anywhere negating the need for further accreditation or external oversight. The American flight training system would, in this vision, stand alone already.“
The key recommendations include:
Establishing a dedicated Central Management Office responsible for all Part 141 pilot school initial certification and ongoing certificate management.Establishing both Safety Management Systems and Quality Management Systems within the Part 141 training environment.Reforming how the FAA manages and oversees certificated pilot schools.Developing industry consensus standards as an alternate means of compliance with Part 141 regulations.Reforming the Part 141 examining authority framework.Expanding Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD) and Technology Credit and Usage.Modernizing training course appendices.Replacing Provisional Pilot School with Registered Pilot School.A-10 Warthog Being Tested With Aerial Refueling Probe Bolted Onto Its NoseA test A-10 has been flown for the first time with a refueling probe replacing its normal aerial refueling receptacle. The A-10 successfully connected to the aerial refueling drogue of a C-130.
The Air Force uses a flying boom system, while the Navy uses a probe-and-drogue system.
MentionedThe “Spacewoman” documentary about Eileen Collins, the first woman Shuttle pilot.
Journey is the Reward / Airplane Geeks Meet-Up, Sunday, May 17, 2026, 4:00 PM at Charlie’s Pizza, Restaurant and Pub (1980 Rt. 37, Manchester Township, NJ 08759).
Visiting the Av-Con 2026 in Atlanta – Held April 4, 2026, at the Delta Flight Museum. Av-Con is described as “the world’s first convention built for aviation fans by aviation creators.”
Souls On Board
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
The MOSAIC rule and the demand for Sonex Aircraft, rising jet fuel prices impacting airlines, JetBlue evaluating a merger, Essential Air Service, the Enhanced AT-CTI Initiative, and United Airlines’ Relax Row in economy class. Also, SpaceX Starlink for GA pilots, a Southwest flight experience, and a conversation with the NTSB.
Aviation NewsFAA’s MOSAIC Rule To Help General Aviation Contributes To Sonex FailureThe FAA’s MOSAIC rule (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification) expands what can be certificated as light-sport aircraft using consensus standards. It broadens sport pilot privileges to give access to more aircraft types.
The general aviation industry expected MOSAIC to create new opportunities for pilots and aircraft manufacturers. But unintended consequences may have arisen from removing limitations on light sport aircraft and making heavier aircraft available as entry-level airplanes. A drop in demand has contributed to Sonex Aircraft’s closure.
Video: Sonex is Closing: A Message from Mark Schaible
https://youtu.be/wl9H0N_r8kE?si=P_sAI7Wl_2vOJKo0US airlines face fuel-driven financial shakeoutGlobal oil prices are up. Brent crude is roughly 50% higher than a year ago. Jet fuel is up around 90% compared to a year ago. Since fuel typically accounts for 20% or more of an airline’s total costs, we can expect higher fares, fuel surcharges, and capacity cuts. Profits could take a hit if airlines can’t pass higher costs on to consumers fast enough.
JetBlue Explores Selling Itself — Advisors Are Looking At United, Southwest And Alaska As BuyersJetBlue is reportedly evaluating selling itself to a competitor, such as United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, or Southwest Airlines. Any such deal could raise antitrust issues, and there is pressure to reach one soon, before the current political climate changes.
Presque Isle council recommends JetBlue to keep serving airportAfter talking with JetBlue and American Airlines at a joint meeting with the airport advisory board, the Presque Isle City Council voted 5-2 to recommend JetBlue to continue serving the city’s airport for the next four years. The Council’s recommendation next goes to the U.S. Department of Transportation for a final decision on the Essential Air Service award, which may take several months.
See the DOT Essential Air Service page.
University of Maine at Augusta may start training air traffic controllersThe FAA’s Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) is a non-funded partnership between the FAA and approved institutions. The Enhanced AT-CTI Initiative was created to allow qualified institutions to provide students with equivalent FAA Academy air traffic control training. Program graduates are placed directly into a facility, with FAA oversight. They can immediately begin localized training at an air traffic facility. These graduates still must pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) and meet medical and security requirements.
United Relax Row: 777 & 787 Economy Seats That Transform Into A “Couch”United Airlines is introducing the Relax Row in economy on long-haul flights. Passengers can reserve a row of three seats, which can become a “lie-flat mattress-like space” for families with small children or passengers who want more space. Launching in 2027, the Relax Row will be available on more than 200 Boeing 787s. By 2030, the service will be available on Boeing 777s. Air New Zealand has licensed its Skycouch to United Airlines.
See:
Air New Zealand Wins the Award for Best Single Achievement in the Passenger’s ExperienceUnited Airlines Relax Row will enable economy passengers to lie flat, long haulAir New Zealand Upgrades Family-Friendly “Economy Skycouch”MentionedSpaceX Starlink and GA:
400 Starlink Internet for GA Pilots: Safety, Costs, and Future Tech with Sporty’s Bret Koebbe + GA NewsStarlink Internet for Small Planes and General AviationStarlink Update: New In-Motion Speed Limits (and What It Means for Pilots)Savvy Aviation Founder Mike Busch Receives AOPA’s Richard G. McSpadden General Aviation Safety Award
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Max Trescott.
-
A runway incursion at LaGuardia results in a fatal crash, new helicopter safety regulations are introduced near airports, Airbus voices frustration with Pratt & Whitney, the second NASA X-59 test flight ends prematurely, A-10 Warthogs see combat over the Strait of Hormuz, and Essential Air Service is considered for Presque Isle Airport.
Aviation NewsDecades of aircraft and ground vehicle near misses at LGA preceded fatal crashCRJ900, courtesy Air Canada.A tragic runway incursion at New York’s LaGuardia Airport on March 22, 2026, ended in disaster when an Air Canada Jazz CRJ900 landing there collided with an airport rescue and firefighting vehicle on the runway. The crash claimed the lives of both pilots and left dozens seriously injured.
See also:
LaGuardia Airport crash: Plane was traveling 93-105 mph at time of ground collisionTwo pilots dead, 41 people hospitalized after Air Canada plane hits fire truck when landing at LaGuardia, causing airport closureMoment air traffic controller pleads ‘Truck One, stop, stop, stop’ before Air Canada jet smashes into emergency vehicle on runway at LaGuardia killing pilot and co-pilotFAA tightens helicopter safety rules near major airportsThe FAA now requires air traffic controllers to use radar to manage aircraft and helicopters in close proximity. The interim general notice (Notice (GENOT) JO 7110.801 – Interim Helicopter Separation Procedures) suspends the use of visual separation between airplanes and helicopters in Class B and Class C airspace, and Terminal Radar Service Areas (TRSAs).
The DOT said, “Many helicopter operators who are used to obtaining immediate approval to transit through certain areas may have to adjust their flight routes or be delayed while controllers ensure they maintain safe distance from other aircraft. When helicopter pilots, conducting urgent medical or LEO missions, request to fly through these heavy-traffic areas, airline operations to those airports may be disrupted in order to allow these missions priority clearance.”
Exclusive: Airbus seeks Pratt & Whitney damages over engine delays, sources sayAirbus is frustrated with Pratt & Whitney over the slow delivery of GTF engines for the A320 family. The issue stems from an allocation crunch, with demand coming both from Airbus for new aircraft and from airlines waiting on repairs to get problem engines back in service. Reports suggest Airbus may be seeking potential damages.
This stems from a manufacturing problem where contaminants were introduced into the nickel-based powdered metal used to forge certain rotating engine components. (Turbine disks and some HPC parts.) These engines face an increased risk of microscopic cracks and premature failure, particularly those produced roughly between late 2015 and 2021. Instead of waiting for routine shop visits, these engines required accelerated inspections and life‑limit reductions.
NASA Second X-59 Flight Cut Short from Warning LightThe second flight of the NASA X-59 supersonic demonstrator ended after nine minutes when a warning light illuminated shortly after takeoff. An unrelated caution light indicated an issue prior to the flight, but after a system reset, the flight was approved to proceed.
The first flight took place on October 28, 2025, when the demonstrator reached 12,000 feet and 200 knots. The second flight was intended to last an hour and reach 20,000 feet and 225 knots, but ended up matching the first flight.
A-10 Warthogs Are Prowling For Iranian Boats In The Strait Of HormuzThe Pentagon has long sought to retire the A-10 Warthog, but Congress has kept it flying. In the meantime, A-10 pilots have been training for a maritime mission: attacking Iranian fast boats in the Strait of Hormuz. AH-64 Apache attack helicopters are also now performing this mission, as well as shooting down Iranian drones. The A-10 has long been considered a close air support aircraft for ground forces, but it also has a maritime role.
JetBlue and American Airlines Bid to Serve Presque Isle AirportThe U.S. Department of Transportation has received proposals from JetBlue and American Airlines for the next Essential Air Service contract for Presque Isle International Airport. JetBlue has provided the service since 2024 with seven weekly round-trip flights to Boston. The 140-seat Airbus A220s depart early in the morning and return late at night. The airline is proposing to continue that service.
American Airlines is proposing at least 12 round-trip weekly flights on a 65-seat jet, split between Boston and Philadelphia. American is seeking a two-year contract with an average annual subsidy of $8.2 million. JetBlue is seeking an $11,521,129 in each of four years, or a two-year contract worth $11,745,899 annually.
See:
How commercial air service has evolved at Presque Isle’s airport.Presque Isle adopts new procedure for air service recommendationsPresque Isle airport sees busiest December in 26 yearsDOT Essential Air Service FAQBonus story:
U.S. Air Force to Update U-2 Dragon Lady Defensive SystemThe U-2 Dragon Lady first flew 70 years ago, and it’s still being used as an ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) platform. Recently, BAE Systems was awarded a contract by Robins Air Force Base in Georgia to support and sustain the U-2’s AN/ALQ-221 Advanced Defensive System (ADS).
In a press release (BAE Systems to modernize Advanced Defensive System for the U.S. Air Force U-2 reconnaissance aircraft), BAE said, “Under the contract, BAE Systems will provide continuous field service support for the aircraft’s electronic warfare (EW) system, complete repairs to maintain system availability, and provide software updates so it can detect and engage new threats.”
MentionedStories about Flying. Flight Instructing is About More Than Just Logging Hours.
China Clipper (1936) movie.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Erin Applebaum.
-
Surf Air plans to launch commercial passenger electric aircraft with BETA Technologies, a KC-135 accident kills all 6 aboard, Dassault unveiled the Falcon 10X, another search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, changes at Southwest Airlines, and the USAF says Boeing has to fix KC-46 problems. Also, the United Airlines’ Contract of Carriage and the NTSB preliminary report on the fatal Challenger 600 crash in Maine.
Aviation NewsBETA to launch first commercial passenger electric aircraft with Surf Air MobilityVermont-based electric aerospace company BETA Technologies announced an Aircraft Purchase Agreement and strategic partnership with Surf Air Mobility Inc. for 25 electric aircraft, starting with the ALIA CTOL aircraft, and options for up to 75 more. Surf Air Mobility plans to launch commercial electric aircraft passenger service in Hawaii. Surf Air also intends to operate a new Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) service center for BETA electric aircraft in Hawaii.
Video: BETA x SURF AIR
https://youtu.be/YbdTNaae0v0?si=vDQ6paOire65BAS3BETA offers two aircraft: the ALIA VTOL, a vertical takeoff and landing all-electric aircraft, and the ALIA CTOL, a conventional takeoff & landing all-electric aircraft. Both offer 5-passenger capacity and 200 cubic feet of cargo. BETA Technologies has not yet received full FAA type certification for its aircraft as of mid‑March 2026, although components and test approvals are in place.
See also: Mokulele parent company plans to use all-electric aircraft interisland and Beta will fly in Vermont as part of federal push for electric aircraft.
KC-135 Crash in Iraq Kills All Six AboardU.S. Central Command reported that a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq, killing all six crew members. The KC-135 was supporting operations against Iran. Another KC-135 was involved in the incident and landed safely, reportedly in Israel. U.S. officials said the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Early indications suggest a possible midair collision.
Dassault Unveils Falcon 10XDassault Aviation has rolled out the first of four Falcon 10X prototypes at its Bordeaux-Mérignac facility, formally debuting its new flagship ultra-long-range business jet aimed at the top of the market. The Falcon 10X is a clean-sheet design with a 7,500‑nm range and top speed around Mach 0.925–0.95, intended to connect major long-haul city pairs nonstop while flying close to the speed of sound
Video: Dassault’s New Falcon 10X Business Jet Takes Its Debut Bow in Bordeaux – AIN
https://youtu.be/n5nW8s_YEGg?si=Yjkp0iTHrELVtzKRSouthwest Airlines drops 2 big airports from its route mapSouthwest wants to boost its profitability and is making some changes. The airline will end service to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington on June 4, 2026. Service to ORD began in 2021 when Southwest expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. But Southwest exited four of the eighteen new markets in 2024.
Malaysia Airlines flight MH370: New update on search – 12 years after it disappearedOcean Infinity has recently been searching the Indian Ocean for MH370. After 28 days searching 2,900 square miles, the “no find, no fee” mission was unsuccessful. Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, a Boeing 8777, departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport for Beijing on March 8, 2014, and disappeared shortly thereafter. Under the agreement, Ocean Infinity would be paid $70m (£52m) if the wreckage was located.
USAF general says Boeing has to fix tanker problems before US orders moreIn a March 4 hearing, the U.S. Air Force Vice Chief of Staff told lawmakers there would be no more orders for the KC-46 until Boeing fixed problems with the aerial refueling tanker. Past problems included the refueling boom, the visual system, and cracks. Reportedly, Boeing took a $565 million charge in its fourth quarter earnings and has lost more than $7 billion on the fixed-cost program.
United Airlines Quietly Cracks Down On Buying Multiple Tickets To Save Money, Bans Video Calls And Viewing ‘Offensive’ ContentAdditional changes made to United’s Contract of Carriage: video calls are now banned, the ban on back-to-back ticketing is no longer limited to round-trip fares, and you can get kicked off for viewing offensive content.
NTSB Preliminary Report – Bombardier 600 Accident January 25, 2026 Bangor, Maine [PDF]Holdover time (HOT) likely contributed to the fatal crash. HOT is determined by fluid type and brand, mix ratio, outside air temperature (usually in bands), precipitation type and intensity, and aircraft wing surface material.
MentionedHeadhunters – Sticks and Creations
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
An aircraft dispatcher describes how weather, war, space launches, and other disruptions can throw airline operations into chaos. In the news, Rolls-Royce on the open-rotor engine design, pilots petition SpaceX Starlink over a price increase, an NTSB board member is fired, Lufthansa changes the carry-on policy for violins, and Barbados controllers stage an unexpected strike.
GuestMike Karrels is an aircraft dispatcher and air traffic manager for the Southeast U.S. with a major U.S. carrier, and he’s also a pilot. That combination gives him a unique view of how decisions get made when things don’t go as planned.
Mike describes the aircraft dispatcher as the captain’s partner on the ground. The two share responsibility for operational control of the flight, which means they work together to decide if a flight should continue, divert, or turn back. When an unplanned event hits, the dispatcher is often the first one building the big-picture view: what’s happening, who it affects, and what options are actually realistic.
Sometimes the disruption is regional. An airport closes, weather rolls in, military operations pop up, or a space launch creates airspace that suddenly can’t be used. In those cases, it’s not just about one flight. Crews and aircraft can end up scattered in the wrong places, the passengers need to be taken care of, and the operation has to be reassembled. Aircraft dispatchers and other teams work together to untangle that mess and put airplanes and people back where they need to be.
Other times, it’s just one airplane with a problem. Maybe a mechanical issue, a medical situation, or conditions deteriorating at the destination. The aircraft dispatcher has to make a decision. Divert to another airport? Return to the origin? Each choice has tradeoffs.
Mike walks through the kinds of factors that come into play. Beyond passenger impact and safety, aircraft dispatchers look at things like whether there’s ground staff at the diversion airport, what kind of ground transportation is available, and how quickly the airplane can be turned around and put back into service. Crew duty and rest rules are another major piece: a decision that solves the immediate problem might leave a crew out of legal flying time later, stranding passengers or aircraft.
On top of government regulations, airlines often layer on their own rules. For example, there may be company policies about diverting into an uncontrolled field, even if it’s technically legal. Dispatchers have to navigate both sets of requirements while still making timely decisions in a dynamic situation.
Getting to that level of responsibility takes serious training and certification. Aircraft dispatchers are required to understand aircraft performance, weather, navigation, regulations, and company procedures. They also need to stay aware of the geopolitical environment. Overflight restrictions, conflict zones, and international rules all shape where a flight can and should go on a given day.
Spaceflight adds yet another wrinkle. Mike talks about the Aircraft Hazard Area, or AHA, around space launches: the region where debris might fall if something goes wrong. Those areas can close significant chunks of airspace and affect routes and alternates, even for flights that seem far from the launch site.
Mike owns a share of a vintage 1963 Beechcraft Musketeer. He produced the Flying and Life podcast, where he shared stories and perspectives from both sides of the cockpit door. The back catalog of those episodes is still available for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the world of flight dispatch and everyday aviation life.
See:
FAA: Airplanes should stay far away from SpaceX’s next Starship launchEnvironmental Impact Statement, SpaceX Starship-Heavy Launch Vehicle at Launch Complex 39A [PDF]New Glenn AHAAviation NewsRolls-Royce remains unconvinced that open-rotor benefit outweighs integration riskWhat type of engine (or engines) will be offered on next-generation single-aisle aircraft? Will it be an open-rotor (an unducted fan) or a conventional ducted fan engine? What will the airframers want and what will the engine OEMs offer? All those questions are unanswered.
In wind tunnel tests ten years ago, RR looked at open-rotor noise and high-speed performance. More recently, the company validated its previous work and sees propulsion efficiency advantages. RR sees two areas of concern: risk and integration issues.
Integration issues include: engine noise entering the cabin that would have to be attenuated, protecting against a blade-out event, aerodynamic interaction with the wing, and the effect on overall aerodynamics.
Rolls-Royce director of research and technology Alan Newby says the company is unconvinced the open-rotor is the way to go, saying, “I can do windtunnel work. I can do simulations, if you like, and I can go and fly on an A380. But the time you realise whether it works or not is when you run that first engine on your production aircraft. That’s a long way down the road. That discovery of risk is a long time in the process.”
After considering performance and risk, Newby says Rolls-Royce favours the ducted fan configuration: “We’ve gone into it with our eyes open. We’ve looked at the previous data. And, on balance, we’re sticking with what we’ve got. We think it’s the right solution.”
Rolls-Royce makes a play for narrowbody aircraft engines with £3bn UltraFan 30 programmeIn February 2026, Rolls-Royce revealed a mock-up of the ducted UltraFan 30 concept with a geared turbofan. The company is looking for up to £200 million in UK government support to help fund development and testing of a scaled demonstrator. More than £500 million has already been invested. The overall program could cost around £3 billion.
The Rolls-Royce UltraFan 30 narrowbody engine is a 30,000 lb thrust-class geared turbofan derived from Rolls-Royce’s UltraFan architecture. It features a 90-inch fan and targets up to 20% better fuel burn than current engines. Ground testing is from 2028, with entry into service targeting 2035.
Pilots Petition Starlink Following Shift to New Speed TiersAirlines are switching to SpaceX Starlink service on their airplanes. Many GA pilots use the compact Mini dish and a Roam plan because it gives them the ability to use phone and tablet applications for real-time weather access, flight planning updates, and communications.
SpaceX has changed its Starlink in-motion service offerings, which moves many GA pilots into a higher-priced plan. A change.org petition, Request reinstatement of Starlink roaming plans for pilots has been created and signed by thousands of pilots:
“For those of us in general aviation, Starlink has been nothing short of a revolution. As a general aviation pilot, having Starlink service on board has dramatically enhanced my flying experience, improving not only my situational awareness but also my ability to access up-to-date weather and airport safety information while airborne. These capabilities are critical to ensuring the safety and efficiency of our flights, and allow us to maintain communication with others while traveling, providing peace of mind to both pilots and our loved ones.”
“However, Starlink has recently made the disappointing decision to raise the cost of the plans serving general aviation by 5 times, while providing less than half of the data of the previous plans simply based on the speed that our planes travel. Many of us are not commercial operations nor traveling near the speeds that these plans are targeting.”
“We urge Starlink to reconsider their decision and reinstate the roaming plans with a speed that accommodates general aviation…”
The Current in-motion speed limits for Roam, Local Priority, and Global Priority (land/sea use) are up to 100 mph in motion. Above that, Starlink expects you to move to an aviation plan. The new Aviation 300MPH plan is $250 per month and includes 20 GB of data, with overage billed at $10 per GB. The new Aviation 450MPH plan is $1,000 per month and includes 20 GB of data, with additional data billed at $50 per GB. Includes land and ocean coverage.
NTSB board member Inman says he was fired by White HouseA Republican member of the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board said on Sunday he was fired on Friday by the White House without any explanation. Todd Inman, a former chief of staff to Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, was fired by the White House, at the time without any explanation. Inman had served on the NTSB since April 2024.
White House says NTSB member was fired for inappropriate alcohol use, harassmentAfter the firing, a White House statement said, “The White House lawfully removed Todd Inman from the NTSB after receiving highly concerning reports of inappropriate alcohol use on the job, harassment of staff, misuse of government resources, and failure to attend at least half of NTSB meetings.
Inman told Politico, “I categorically deny the allegations made in the White House statement. It has become increasingly obvious this action was a political hit job. While not my original intent, I look forward to defending my reputation through all legal means possible.”
Lufthansa Softens Violin Policy After Backlash Over “Naked Violin” IncidentLufthansa strictly limits carry-on baggage item dimensions to 55 x 40 x 23 cm. At the same time, the airline allows violins and other small musical instruments to travel in the cabin free of charge. However, many standard violin cases are greater than 55 cm in length. That means the options are to check the instrument or purchase a second seat. The classical music community exploded after a viral video of a musician carrying a violin onboard without the case.
Lufthansa now says airline staff can exercise more flexibility to allow small instruments in the cabin. The combined dimensions of the hand luggage cannot exceed 125 centimeters.
In the United States, federal law requires airlines to allow small instruments such as violins onboard if they can be safely stowed in the cabin. Europe has no equivalent rule, leaving each airline to develop its own policy.
See:
Tom Paxton – Thank You, Republic Airlines (1985)Dave Carrol & Sons of Maxwell (2009) – United Breaks GuitarsCarlton CasesMultiple Planes Performed ‘Flights to Nowhere’ After Air Traffic Controllers Stage Shock WalkoutAfter an unsanctioned strike by air traffic controllers, the Barbados Ministry of Tourism and International Transport said that the airspace over the country was shut down for about seven and a half hours. The March 7, 2026, job action left passengers at the island’s Grantley Adams International Airport stranded. The controllers were protesting a number of grievances, including staff shortages. These have caused controllers to assume additional responsibilities without extra compensation.
An emergency meeting was held with the Barbados Workers’ Union and the National Union of Public Workers, which represent air traffic controllers. They returned to work, and another meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2026.
Delta, United, Air Canada, JetBlue, and WestJet flights to Barbados were impacted.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
The House fails to pass the ROTOR Act, and the competing ALERT Act is introduced. The military is shooting down drones with a laser, combat action in the Middle East is disrupting commercial flights, former President Biden flies commercial, Breeze Airways continues to expand, and United adds a new passenger requirement to its Contract of Carriage. Plus, more feedback on the Lockheed Constellation, and the passion for flying.
Aviation NewsU.S. House rejects aviation safety bill after Pentagon abruptly withdraws supportWhen we talked about the ROTOR Act last week, we explained that the Senate unanimously passed the bill requiring ADS-B In and that a House vote was scheduled. Before the House vote, the Pentagon withdrew its support, saying that the bill could create “unresolved budgetary burdens and operational security risks.” The bill failed to meet the required two-thirds majority: 264 in favor and 133 opposed, with more than 130 Republicans voting against it.
Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said, “This bill will undermine our national security. Requiring our fighters and bombers and highly classified assets to regularly broadcast their location puts our men and women in uniform at risk.”
Rep. Sam Graves, R-Mo., the chairman of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, called the ROTOR Act an “unworkable government mandate” that would be “burdensome” to some pilots.
ALERT Act Aviation Safety Bill Introduced in U.S. House.Graves and Rogers put their support behind their own bipartisan bill, known as the ALERT Act, or Airspace Location and Enhanced Risk Transparency Act. It is broader, more process‑driven, and relies more on future FAA rulemaking.
The ROTOR Act uses mandates and concentrates on collision‑avoidance and traffic‑awareness, especially mandatory ADS‑B In equipage for aircraft operating near airports, plus related airspace reviews and military‑civil coordination.
The ALERT Act uses rulemaking to implement essentially all ~50 NTSB recommendations from the DCA midair, including tech, ATC staffing/training, helicopter routes, DCA‑specific procedures, and FAA safety culture reforms.
Military Laser Downs CBP Drone, Tiny TFR EstablishedWhen Federal Agencies Start Shooting at Each Other’s Drones, We Have a Real Airspace ProblemThe Defence Department has a laser weapon that can shoot down drones. Recently, a TFR closed the airspace in El Paso due to a drone downing. Now, Congress has been briefed that along the Mexican border at Fort Hancock, Texas, a Defense Department laser weapon shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone. In response, the FAA issued a TFR for that area.
In a statement, three lawmakers said, “Our heads are exploding over the news that DoD reportedly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone using a high-risk counter-unmanned aircraft system.”
Also, “We said MONTHS ago that the White House’s decision to sidestep a bipartisan, tri-committee bill to appropriately train C-UAS operators and address the lack of coordination between the Pentagon, DHS and the FAA was a short-sighted idea. Now, we’re seeing the result of its incompetence.”
Hundreds of thousands of travelers stranded by flight disruptions after attack on IranMilitary combat in Iran and the surrounding region has forced the diversion and cancellation of flights. Airspace was closed by Israel, Qatar, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The United Arab Emirates announced a “temporary and partial closure” of its airspace. Reportedly, hundreds of thousands of travelers were impacted and either stranded or diverted to other airports. Important hub airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha were closed. Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad typically move about 90,000 passengers per day through those hubs.
Three US Fighter Jets Accidentally Shot Down by Kuwaiti Air DefensesOn 1 March 2026, three USAF F‑15E Strike Eagles were shot down over Kuwait by Kuwaiti air-defense systems during combat operations against Iran. U.S. Central Command described it as an apparent friendly‑fire incident; all six crew members ejected and were recovered.
Biden flies commercial from DCA and winds up stuck in delays like everyone elseImagine getting settled into your seat on a commuter flight from DCA to Columbia, South Carolina, and realizing that your seatmate is a former President of the United States.
Breeze adding new nonstop options from Portland, MaineBreeze Airways is adding new, summer seasonal nonstop flights from the Portland International Jetport to Akron/Canton and Cincinnati. Breeze is also adding new Breeze Thru service options, providing same plane, one-stop flights to Savannah, Georgia, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The Breeze Thru service to Savannah starts July 1, 2026, with the service to Myrtle Beach on July 2, 2026.
BreezeThru flights include a quick stop at an airport along the way to your destination. Just hang out. There’s no need to change planes or recheck bags. Your reservation will have a single confirmation number for both segments.
United Threatens To Kick Off Passengers Who Don’t Use HeadphonesUnited Airlines has added a new passenger requirement to Rule 21 Refusal of Transport in its Contract of Carriage. Item 22 reads, “Passengers who fail to use headphones while listening to audio or video content.” Under the Contract of Carriage, “UA shall have the right to refuse transport on a permanent or temporary basis or shall have the right to remove from the aircraft at any point, any Passenger…” for the stated reasons.
United Airlines Contract of Carriage.
Delta Air Lines Contract of Carriage: U.S.
American Airlines Conditions of Carriage.
Singapore Airshow 2026Brian Coleman brings us interviews from the Singapore Airshow. In this episode, he and Grant McHerron talk with Nigel Pittaway, the Editor of Australia Defence Magazine.
MentionedHow Live ATC Went Live
Stories about Flying: Armchair Accident Investigators
Veteran airline stowaway strikes again, this time on a Newark-to-Milan flight
Aviation Safety Network, Focke-Wulf FWP-149D, N9145.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
We take a look at the Lockheed Constellation with one of the last pilots to have flown the L-1649A Starliner Constellation. In the news, the ROTOR Act and an ADS-B In mandate, GAMA’s annual Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report, the Government’s partial shutdown impact on the TSA, Government luxury jets, and a plan to market an Embraer aerial tanker. Also, an interview from the Singapore Airshow with a Product Development VP from Textron Aviation.
Lockheed Starliner L-1649A flying in TWA colors.GuestPhilip Kemp has been an Airline Transport Pilot for 17 years, and he has more than a little experience with the Lockheed Constellation. That connection came about in the 1980’s after meeting Maurice Roundy, a Lockheed Constellation fan and collector of the airplane. Philip is one of the last pilots to have flown the L-1649A Starliner Constellation.
Philip describes the development of the Lockheed Constellation and its variants, and how the airliner was obsoleted by jet transports. He tells us about his adventures ferrying Connies, the remaining examples that still exist, and the sale of Maurice’s Constellations, including an ultimately unsuccessful attempt by Lufthansa to make one of the aircraft flightworthy. Philip explains that N8083H is now at the TWA Hotel at JFK after a cosmetic restoration, N974R is with Kermit Weeks also for a cosmetic restoration, and that N7316C was shipped to Hamburg for the 100th Lufthansa anniversary.
Ferry flight from Sanford, Florida, to Kermit Weeks’ Fantasy of Flight. October 2001.Philip started his career with Continental Express, and then he flew Part 135 jet charter with Charter Ops for two years. He returned to the airlines with SkyWest, then back to Continental Express (ExpressJet). Philip spent nine years with North American Airlines flying troops all over the world, and his last six years were with JetBlue. He was the Manager of Crew Training at Waltzing Matilda Aviation/Connect Airlines, a new Part 121 airline, flying Dash 8 Q400’s. Philip is now looking for a good teaching opportunity in the aviation world.
N8083H L-1649A at the TWA Hotel, JFK.N7316C and N8083H next to Maurice Roundy’s airport house.Maurice Roundy, the day before the last flight.Lockheed 749 Constellation versus the Lockheed 1649A Starliner Constellation.See Ralph M. Pettersen’s Constellation Survivors Website.
Aviation NewsAfter DCA crash, Congress acts to mandate decades-old aircraft tracking techAutomatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) is an aviation system that uses GPS to determine aircraft position and also provides other flight information. ADS-B has two functions: ADS-B In and ADS-B Out. ADS-B Out broadcasts position and other identifying information, and has been required for many aircraft in the U.S. since 2020. ADS-B In receives transmissions from other aircraft and from ground stations.
The bi-partisan Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act (S.2503) would require ADS-B out aircraft to have ADS-B In to display information about nearby traffic in the cockpit. The ROTOR Act was unanimously passed by the Senate in December 2025, and at the time of recording, a vote in the House was scheduled.
House to vote Monday on ROTOR Act following deadly midair collision
After recording, the House voted on the bill, but it did not pass due to insufficient votes.
Under the ROTOR Act:
FAA must issue final rules for ADS‑B In equipage not later than 2 years after enactment, effective within 60 days of publication.The final rule has a fleet-wide compliance deadline of December 31, 2031, for affected aircraft, with at most a 1‑year extension for certain operators.FAA must start regular briefings and public reports on the rulemaking status within 180 days after enactment and then every 90 days.GAMA Reports Strong 2025 for OEMsThe General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released its 2025 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report:
Airplane shipments in 2025 compared to 2024:
Piston airplanes flat (+0.6%)Turboprops declined by 5.1%Business jets increased 11.8% with 854 units.The value of airplane deliveries for 2025 was $31.0 billion, an increase of 16.1%.Helicopter shipments in 2025 compared to 2024:
Piston helicopters were down 2%Turbine helicopters down 2% (preliminary)The preliminary value of helicopter deliveries for 2025 was $4.7 billion, an increase of approximately 5.5%.Homeland security reverses course on TSA PreCheck suspensionCiting staffing shortages caused by the partial government shutdown, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initially suspended the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs. Soon thereafter, DHS revised the directive in a social media post saying, “TSA PreCheck remains operational with no change for the traveling public. As staffing constraints arise, TSA will evaluate on a case-by-case basis and adjust operations accordingly.”
Chris Sununu, president and CEO of the trade association Airlines for America, said in a statement that the group “is deeply concerned that TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs are being suspended and that the traveling public will be, once again, used as a political football amid another government shutdown”.
Geoff Freeman, head of the US Travel Association, accused Democratic and Republican lawmakers of putting politics first. “Air travel is essential for our economy and daily life, and it’s disgraceful for travel to be used as leverage in political disagreements,” he said in a statement.
No Expense Has Been Spared’: Inside a Luxury Jet DHS Wants to Buy for DeportationsDHS has been leasing a Boeing 737 Max 8 featuring bedrooms, showers, a kitchen, four large flat-screen TVs, and a bar. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is asking the OMB to approve its purchase of the jet for $70 million. ICE says that it would be used for deportations and travel for Cabinet officials. A DHS spokesperson said, “at least one of the bedrooms is currently being converted for seating to prepare the aircraft to meet the demands of its deportation mission set.”
In a statement, a DHS spokesperson said, “This plane flies at 40% cheaper than what the military aircraft flies for ICE deportation flights—saving the American taxpayer hundreds of millions of dollars. This is part of Secretary Noem’s broader efforts to clamp down on inefficiencies and save taxpayer dollars.”
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Spends $200 Million of Taxpayer Money on Pair of Gulfstream G700 Private Jets During Government ShutdownHouse Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) and Homeland Security Subcommittee Ranking Member Lauren Underwood (IL-14) requested more information from the Secretary regarding the purchase, which does not align with earlier funding requests for the Department.
Northrop, Brazil’s Embraer partner on KC-390 to pitch US, othersUnder a memorandum of understanding, Embraer and Northrop Grumman are looking at adding an autonomous boom refueling system to the KC-390 Millennium, which currently employs a hose and drogue system. A new boom would enable the tanker to refuel U.S. Air Force aircraft.
Singapore Airshow 2026Brian Coleman brings us interviews from the Singapore Airshow. In this episode, he talks with Jimmy Beeson, Textron Aviation Inc. VP of Product Development.
MentionedFantasy of Flight
Alaska Airlines’ 20-minute baggage guarantee
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Brian Coleman
-
Updates on the DCA midair collision, JetBlue software glitch, Air India B787 fuel control switch, injuries on United B777 flight, and Toronto CRJ-900 rollover. Also, the AA CEO’s message to employees, DOT mandate to purge DEI, Portland International Jetport passenger volume, Elliott Management and Southwest, and flight attendant carry-on bags. Plus, our first report from the Singapore Airshow.
GuestAir Accident UpdatesWe look at some air accident and incident updates in the press:
NTSB Chair Slams FAA for Ignoring Repeated Warnings, Says Midair Collision Was PreventableIn this C-Span video, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy slams the FAA, saying that it let its guard down and ignored repeated warnings that ultimately led to the deadly midair collision near Washington Reagan National Airport on January 29, 2025, that killed 67 people. “We should be angry, because for years no one listened. This was preventable. This was 100 percent preventable,” Homendy says.
Passengers on JetBlue Plane That Plummeted When Flight Computer “Glitched Out” Sue Airbus for NegligenceThe JetBlue A320 experienced a sudden “uncommanded loss of altitude,” initially attributed to a software glitch that Airbus believed could result from intense solar radiation. This led to an emergency worldwide recall in November 2025, with an estimated 6,000 A320-series aircraft affected.
Three passengers on that flight are now suing Airbus for allowing an “unreasonably dangerous” glitch in the system to go unchecked. Those passengers question the solar flare explanation and claim that JetBlue was aware of a recurring issue with the Elevator and Aileron Computer (ELAC) system.
No defect found in switch of jet grounded by Air India – regulatorPilots on an Air India B787-8 noticed that during engine start, the fuel control switch did not “remain positively latched in the run position when light vertical pressure was applied”. This happened twice. The third time, the switch operated normally.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said that when the switches were operated according to Boeing’s recommended procedure, they were found to be “satisfactory”, staying at run instead of moving to cut-off. The DGCA reported that, when incorrectly handled, the switch would “move easily from run to cut-off”.
See also, Pilot alert prompts Air India checks on all Boeing 787 fuel control switchesby Rachel Chitra.
Three United Airlines Flight Attendants Seriously Injured After Air Traffic Control Failed To Alert Pilots Of TurbulenceThe NTSB has released its final report on the February 10, 2024, incident where a United Airlines 777-200 experienced a sudden drop, seriously injuring three flight attendants and throwing several passengers and an unsecured baby into the ceiling. The NTSB concluded that a contributing factor was air traffic controllers’ failure to alert the pilots of turbulence in the area.
TSB Canada Releases Update on 2025 Toronto CRJ-900 Crash InvestigationPhoto Credit: TSB Canada.The accident occurred at Toronto/Lester B. Pearson International Airport (CYYZ) on February 17, 2025, when the CRJ-900 regional jet attempted to land and struck the runway hard, causing the right wing and tail section to separate from the fuselage. The plane flipped upside down and slid to a stop. The wreckage was transported to a hangar while the right wing, landing gear, wing box structure, and related parts were taken to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) Engineering Laboratory in Ottawa for testing.
The metallurgical analysis of the wing and landing-gear fractures is now being examined.Recordings from the flight data recorder, cockpit voice recorder, quick access recorder (QAR), and the enhanced ground proximity warning system have been examined.Data from prior flights on the same aircraft were also compared to the accident flight for context.Evidence was collected from NAV CANADA’s Toronto surface movement guidance system and the airport’s closed-circuit television footage.A full meteorological review, including wind data and soundings, has also been finalized to understand weather conditions at the time.Simulator sessions have been run.The full preliminary report is available here.
Aviation NewsUnder Pressure American Airlines CEO Robert Isom Tells Staff That Everything Will Be Alright In New Video MessageIn a new video message to staffers, American Airlines chief executive Robert Isom says, “As we look forward to 2026, it’s with a lot of excitement and confidence. I know we’re going to do better financially and operationally. We have a plan to be solidly profitable this year, which will mean good things for our customers, our shareholders, and all of you.”
Isom articulated strategies concerning the customer experience, hub facility investments, maximizing the power of the AA network and fleet, new routes, new frontline team members, new aircraft, AAdvantage program changes, and doing a better job selling the AA product.
Trump’s U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Doubles Down on Purging DEI From Our Skies, Calls on Airlines to Affirm Pilot Hiring is Merit-BasedThe FAA is issuing a new mandatory “Operations Specification” (OpSpec) requiring all commercial airlines to commit to merit-based hiring for pilots formally. The mandate (New Mandatory OpSpec A134, Merit-Based Pilot Hiring, for Certificate Holders Conducting Operations Under 14 CFR Part 121 [PDF]) is effective February 13, 2026.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said, “When families board their aircraft, they should fly with confidence knowing the pilot behind the controls is the best of the best. The American people don’t care what their pilot looks like or their gender—they just care that they are most qualified man or woman for the job. Safety drives everything we do, and this commonsense measure will increase transparency between passengers and airlines.”
ALPA Statement on Pilot Training and Qualification StandardsCapt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), issued a statement that included:
“All ALPA pilots are trained and evaluated to the same uncompromising standard regardless of race, gender, or background. A pilot’s identity has no bearing on their ability to safely operate an aircraft. What matters is training, experience, and qualification — and on that front, there are no shortcuts and no compromises.
“At ALPA, our work to advance aviation safety never stops, and as always, ALPA airline pilots remain ready to safely transport passengers and cargo to their destinations. Safety is, and always will be, our number one priority.”
Portland International Jetport logs busiest year in its historyThe Portland International Jetport had a record year in 2025, with more than 2.59 million passengers traveling through the airport. The previous record was 2.44 million in 2024. The Jetport says it became the first airport in New England to surpass its pre-pandemic passenger levels in 2023.
Southwest Airlines Turns a Corner as Activist Investor Elliott Walks AwayElliott Management, an activist investor, began to acquire shares of Southwest stock in mid-2024. It bought enough shares to gain board representation and dictate the Airline’s strategic and financial changes. As a result, we saw paid assigned seating, baggage fees, expiring travel credits, and adjustments to its Rapid Rewards program. Southwest also looked at asset sales and balance sheet strategies to fund share buybacks.
But in late 2025, Elliott began reducing its stake, and by early February 2026, its ownership dropped to about 9 percent. Two Elliott representatives have resigned from the board at Southwest.
Southwest Airlines Now Faces a Flight Attendant Backlash As Hand Luggage Woes GrowSouthwest moved a dedicated overhead bin for crew members to the back of the plane, and flight attendants are not happy. Passengers sitting at the front of the plane who have paid more or have elite status find that bin space is an issue.
Singapore Airshow 2026Brian Coleman interviewed several people at the Singapore Airshow. In this episode, he talks with Dan McQuestin, the Bell Country Manager in Australia.
Mentioned“How LiveATC Went Live” by Rob Mark in the February 2026 issue of AIN Online.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Erin Applebaum.
-
The founder and CEO of Savvy Aviation explains the need for on-condition maintenance for GA, the proper roles of aircraft owners and mechanics, his Inspection Authorization training course, and his new Aviation Masters podcast. In the news, American Airlines is under fire from pilots and flight attendants, AA’s financial performance, the departure of AOPA’s CEO, a United Airlines lawsuit, and the Inspector General audit of air traffic controller training. Also, an Airplane Geeks host announces his new aviation podcast.
GuestMike Busch is the founder and CEO of Savvy Aviation, which provides aircraft owners, operators, and maintenance professionals with expert guidance grounded in data-driven, reliability-centered maintenance principles. Through maintenance management, education, and advocacy, Savvy helps the General Aviation community improve safety, reliability, and cost control.
Mike Busch, Savvy Aviation founder and CEO.Mike argues that general aviation aircraft are often over-maintained, wasting both owners’ time and money while straining already limited mechanic capacity. He believes the industry should shift its focus toward on-condition, or reliability-centered, maintenance. Mechanics, he says, need to be trained to think critically—not just follow the manufacturer’s book. By applying reliability-centered maintenance and working on-condition, our existing mechanics could be more efficient. Mike also outlines what a healthy, collaborative relationship between owners and mechanics should look like.
SavvyAviation has introduced the free, FAA-accepted SavvyCertified training course designed for mechanics studying for Inspection Authorization renewal. Mike reports that many aircraft owners signed up for the course and find it valuable. He also has a new podcast called Aviation Masters.
Mike is a well-known aviation writer, teacher, aviation type club tech rep, aircraft-owner advocate, and entrepreneur. He assists aircraft owners with their maintenance problems through his lectures, articles, and books. Mike is a National Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year and has previously appeared in Episode 446 (April 5, 2017) and in Episode 667 (August 25, 2021).
Aviation NewsAllied Pilots Association Delivers Scathing Ultimatum to American ManagementIn a letter to the American Airlines Group Board of Directors, the Allied Pilots Association (APA) Board of Directors says, “Our airline is on an underperforming path and has failed to define an identity or a strategy to correct course” and “…it is the result of persistent patterns of operational, cultural, and strategic shortcomings.”
“For more than a year, APA has voiced concerns regarding management’s ability to turn the corner. Management has been given repeated opportunities to articulate a credible strategy and demonstrate measurable improvement. Those opportunities have passed without meaningful change. Despite repeated assurances, the operation continues to struggle under predictable stressors, exposing systemic weaknesses in preparation, execution, and decision making. These consequences are shouldered by our customers and employees every day. “
“These failures have negatively impacted the financial performance of our company and frustrated all stakeholders, to include shareholders, for far too long.”
“American is no longer best in class financially, operationally, or in customer service. The pilots of American want our company to win and dominate the competition, not just survive and compete. Our careers are intrinsically tied to the fate and performance of this once-great airline.”
The Allied Pilots Association (APA) is the collective bargaining agent for American Airlines (AA) pilots. Founded in 1963 and representing more than 16,000 pilots, the APA says it is the world’s largest independent pilots’ union.
“Shame On You”: American Airlines Flight Attendants Call for Shareholder Coup to Oust CEOUnlike the APA, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) is calling for American Airlines’ chief executive, Robert Isom, to step down. In an internal memo addressed to Isom, APFA Chicago O’Hare base president Justin Patterson says, “I would like to say, sleeping on floors is NOT normal. Shame on you for trying to normalize this inhumane treatment. Doing the same thing on repeat and expecting different results [is] the definition of insanity.”
Patterson asks, “Do you intend on running this airline with piss poor planning and posting minuscule profits again in 2026?” And “This company failed more than just the Flight Attendants… they failed everyone who works here. American Airlines failed our shareholders. They were derelict in their duties to our shareholders.”
APFA is the official crew union that represents more than 28,000 AA flight attendants.
Passengers Left Stunned By Miniature Tray Tables on American Airlines New Long-Haul A321XLRAmerican Airlines flight attendant Heather Poole has posted on X photos of the new Economy cabin tray tables. Table depth is half what you’d normally expect from a tray table. A standard laptop will overhang the smaller tables, and the standard AA long-haul meal tray will as well. The table does not fold out or extend.
Pressure mounts on American Airlines CEO as carrier lags rivalsIn 2025, Delta Air Lines posted $5 billion in net income with a 7.9% profit margin. United Airlines posted $3.3 billion in net income with a 5.7% margin. American Airlines made $111 million last year with a 0.2% margin.
AOPA’s Hiring a Crisis Communications FirmAOPA’s board has reportedly hired a crisis‑management firm on a $250,000 retainer to handle intense backlash over the abrupt departure of CEO Darren Pleasance on February 4, 2026.
Off-Duty FAA Inspector Claims He Got Lifetime Ban from United After He Pointed Out Alleged Safety ConcernsPaul Asmus said that after a May 2022 flight where he pointed out his safety concerns, United removed him from the flight and gave him a lifetime travel ban. Asmus is suing United for $12.75 million in damages. The civil suit claims loss of wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Asmus, an FAA Inspector but off-duty, claims that he noticed a “torn seat-back pocket at his assigned seat,” which “impaired the ability to secure and access the emergency briefing card” and a passenger standing in the aisle while the aircraft pushed back from the gate. Asmus believed that he had an obligation to report the violations he observed and took photographs for an FAA report.
Audit Initiated of Air Traffic Controller Training at the FAA AcademyThe U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General announced the initiation of an audit. The Memorandum, Audit Announcement | Air Traffic Controller Training at the FAA Academy [PDF] (Project ID 26A3002A000), dated February 5, 2025, states that:
“…the Academy is facing considerable challenges with training, including a shortage of qualified instructors, training capacity limitations, an outdated curriculum, and high training failure rates. Given the importance of increasing the number of certified controllers to safely manage the NAS, we are initiating this audit. The audit objectives will be to assess (1) FAA’s efforts to address the Academy instructor shortages, training limitations, and trainee failure rates and (2) the Academy’s progress with updating the air traffic controller training program curriculum.”
The OIG plans to begin the audit “in the coming weeks.”
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) works within the Department of Transportation (DOT) to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of DOT programs and operations and to detect and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse.
See the OIG Active Audits list.
MentionedStories About Flying podcast from Rob Mark.
Aviation is an industry brimming with adventure and discovery at every turn. Award‑winning aviation journalist and Airplane Geeks co‑host Rob Mark invites listeners to enjoy captivating stories from a lifetime of aviation. Drawing on more than 50 years of experience flying for airlines, corporate and charter operations, and teaching as a flight instructor, Rob also reflects on his early days as an FAA and U.S. Air Force tower and radar controller. Along the way, he’ll share remarkable stories from fellow aviators and respected podcasters who bring their own perspectives to the fascinating world of flight.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
FAA reorganization and shutdown prep, Airbus A220 stretch, certification as a trade tool, UPS MD‑11 retirement, 777X engine snag, fatal Challenger crash, iconic aircraft, new NASM galleries, aviation career issues, aviation-themed music, and a future DC‑3/CH‑47 fly‑in.
Aviation NewsFAA Adds Departments, Shuffles RolesThe new FAA reorganization differs from the previous structure mainly by centralizing safety oversight, creating new modernization and advanced technology offices, and consolidating internal support functions under new top-level offices.
A new, agency‑wide Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) Organization implements a single safety system and risk-management strategy across all FAA lines of business, rather than having safety functions and metrics siloed in multiple offices as before.
An Airspace Modernization Office is dedicated to rolling out the “brand‑new air traffic control system” and overseeing broader NAS modernization, which previously was handled within the Air Traffic Organization and other units rather than a single, focused office.
An Office of Advanced Aviation Technologies integrates UAS, eVTOL, AAM, electric, and supersonic aircraft into the NAS. These functions were formerly spread among UAS integration, NextGen, and various certification/AVS branches.
A new Administration and Finance Office consolidates the functions of finance, information technology, and human resources. Previously, they were distributed across multiple lines of business and staff offices.
A Policy and Legal Office pulls together policy, legal, stakeholder engagement, financial assistance, and the agency’s rulemaking/regulatory office. Previously, rulemaking and policy lived mainly within Aviation Safety and other distinct policy offices.
The Administration and Finance Office, Policy and Legal Office, Air Traffic Organization, and the new safety and modernization offices all report to the Administrator.
Shutdown Plan for FAA Involves 10K FurloughsThe FAA’s plan for the short-lived partial government shutdown was to furlough more than 10,000 FAA workers and withhold pay for 13,835 air traffic controllers.
Exclusive: Airbus to kickstart pre-sales for a larger A220 jet, sources sayAirbus is considering launching an A220 stretch – the A220-500 with around 180 seats. This is a “simple stretch,” meaning the same wings, the same engines, and a longer fuselage. The Airbus Board approval is required before the A220-500 can be formally launched.
Trade War Skies: Understanding Trump’s 2026 Decertification Order on Canadian AircraftIn a January 30, 2026, social media post, President Donald Trump announced the “decertification” of all Canadian-manufactured aircraft if Gulfstream aircraft were not certified by Canada. The President alleged that Canada has “wrongfully, illegally, and steadfastly” refused to certify U.S.-made G500, G600, G700, and G800 jets. If Transport Canada did not act immediately, a 50% tariff would be implemented. Over 5,400 Canadian-built planes are registered in the U.S. This sent shockwaves, if not panic, throughout the industry.
With time, clarification has come: The order would apply to new aircraft airworthiness certificates and wouldn’t ground the fleet.
The IAM (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) urged a separation of safety regulation and political grievances. “You can’t weaponize the certification process,” said union leaders, emphasizing that aviation safety should remain an independent pillar of global travel.
Some feel Transport Canada is holding off on certifying the G700 and G800 mainly because they are not willing to mirror the FAA’s temporary fuel‑icing exemption. The Canadian regulator wants the full cold‑weather and icing compliance demonstrated first.
UPS won’t resurrect MD-11 fleet after deadly crash, takes $137M chargeUPS is retiring its fleet of 27 MD-11 aircraft and, in the process, writing off $137 million after-tax. The MD-11s will be replaced with twin-engine Boeing 767-300 cargo jets. In response to the grounding of the MD-11 fleet, UPS repositioned some aircraft from outside the US, expanded transportation by truck, and leased planes from partner airlines.
During an earnings call, Chief Financial Officer Brian Dykes said, “Over the next fifteen months, we expect to take delivery of 18 new Boeing 767 aircraft, with 15 expected to deliver this year. As new aircraft join our fleet, we will step down the leased aircraft and associated expenses. We believe these actions are consistent with building a more efficient global network positioned for growth, flexibility and profitability.”
Boeing’s certification ‘hangover’ drags on with new 777X issueAlso, Boeing has identified an engine durability issue with the General Electric GE9X engines that power the 777X, although CEO Kelly Ortberg says this will not impact the first 777X delivery in 2027. Also, Ortberg signalled to investors that the company plans to increase 737 MAX production this year to 47 from 42 planes per month. Boeing has been preparing a fourth MAX production line in Everett to produce 737 MAX 10s, although the aircraft has yet to receive certification. Boeing posted job openings for the line, and the tooling is complete.
Tracing the hours after a fatal plane crash in BangorThe Bombardier Challenger 600‑series business jet crashed during takeoff from Bangor International Airport in a snowstorm, killing all six people on board and triggering a complex, weather‑hampered investigation. The business jet was operating a private flight from Bangor to Europe with two crew and four passengers from the Houston area.
The plane had been deiced and was cleared for takeoff on runway 33 around 7:40–7:45 p.m., in heavy snow, with visibility down to about three‑quarters of a mile and several inches of snow on the ground. Within roughly a minute of takeoff clearance, controllers halted all traffic after the aircraft crashed on or near the runway, coming to rest inverted and on fire.
Possible lines of inquiry include:
Wing contamination and ice buildup are known risk factors that have contributed to past Challenger‑series accidents.Aircraft performance and whether the wing stalled on takeoff.Deicing procedures and timing relative to takeoff, including whether holdover times were exceeded.Crew qualifications, training, and recent duty history.Mechanical condition of the aircraft and any anomalies captured on the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which have been sent to the NTSB in Washington.MentionedNational Air and Space Museum Announces Plans To Celebrate 50 Years
The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum opened on July 1, 1976, as a gift to the nation for the U.S. bicentennial. Five new galleries will open to the public on the museum’s 50th anniversary, July 1, 2026, and in time for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Galleries opening July 1, 2026:
Flight and the Arts CenterJay I. Kislak World War II in the AirU.S. National Science Foundation Discovering Our UniverseRTX Living in the Space AgeTextron How Things FlyGalleries opening in the autum 2026:
At Home in Space (Oct. 30)Modern Military Aviation (Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11)This completes the museum’s multi-year renovation.
Soar Together Family Day at Innovations in Flight: World War II on the Homefront
Check this site for information about the National Air & Space Museum’s annual Innovations in Flight event.
The DC-3 Society is planning an inaugural DC-3 Society DC-3 Fly-In. Date and location TBD. See the January 2026 Newsletter.
Video: 737 St. Erasmus’ Airshow, Full Music Album, by SPEED BRAKE ARMED
https://youtu.be/lcY3uU8uG2EVideo: 737 Airshow America, by SPEED BRAKE ARMED.
https://youtu.be/-Sl5WvWRhWoVideo: HARS CONNIE – The Years Fly Past – Wings Over Illawarra 2016
https://youtu.be/duSOTbanz-8?si=13bcDNa5Sfv9JgPqMusicIn a blast from the AGP past, Brother Love provides opening and closing music from the Album Of The Year CD. (On Facebook.)
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.
-
Pilot Nicki returns to describe her 1948 Globe Swift and explain her plans to make a mid-life career change and become a professional pilot. In the news, the FAA Administrator says what to expect from the “brand new air traffic control system,” a bill to address ADS-B “misuse,” navigating around the debris field after a rocket failure, accelerating the MV-75 Tiltrotor program, flying the Qatari 747 as Air Force One, reduced security restrictions at Heathrow, and a private jet crash in Maine.
GuestNicki Hovanec just reached her goal of 1500 flight hours and now plans to make a mid-life career change and become a professional pilot. She fell in love with aviation at an early age and attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for Aviation at Daytona Beach, Florida. But 911 impacted Nicki’s career trajectory and took her away from aviation. However, with encouragement from her spouse, she returned to aviation, obtained her pilot’s license, and will soon look to be hired by an airline.
Nicki trained through independent flight schools and completed her solo in 2017, receiving her initial pilot’s certificate. She continued her training and completed additional certifications on various aircraft while progressing towards her goal of 1500+ flight hours. Nicki saved and borrowed funds to purchase a Cessna 152. Eventually selling that plane, she bought a 1948 Globe Swift tail-dragger, her current airplane.
With 1,500 flight hours completed, Nicki now begins the job search for a professional pilot position, starting with the NGPA job fair. We’ll continue to follow her progress.
A little history: In May 2017, Nicki sought our advice about starting flying lessons and making a career change to become a professional pilot. We encouraged her to keep us informed about her progress, and Nicki did so by sending us over a dozen recordings documenting her journey getting a pilot’s license. We were happy to include those in our podcast episodes.
Nicki and her 1948 Globe Swift.See:
A Short History of the SwiftWikipedia: Globe GC-1 Swift2026 NGPA Industry Expo, presented by United Airlines, February 5-6, 2026.FAPA.aero (Future & Active Pilots Alliance)Aviation NewsFAA’s Bedford Provides Glimpse into U.S. ATC’s FutureAt the monthly Aero Club of Washington, D.C. luncheon, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford talked about the “brand new air traffic control system.” He described:
“Greater precision about… flight trajectories… [while] navigating through the airspace.”Many fewer handoffs flying through the system.A cultural shift away from focusing on takeoff to when a pilot wants to land. Changing the innovation cycle to be more like Apple or Tesla.AOPA urges members to contact their representatives in CongressAOPA issued a call to action asking its 300,000 members to contact their senators and representatives in Congress and urge them to cosponsor the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act (PAPA). AOPA President Darren Pleasance said, “When the ADS-B mandate went into effect in 2020, the FAA said this important technology would only be used for safety and airspace efficiency. Instead, we’re now seeing it used in ways that discourage adoption…The misuse of ADS-B is a step backward for aviation safety and erodes trust in our aviation system.”
If passed, PAPA would prohibit the use of ADS-B data to assist in the collection of fees from pilots or aircraft owners and clarify that ADS-B data may only be used for its intended purposes of air traffic safety and efficiency.
PAPA was introduced in 2025 by Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.) as H.R.4146 and Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) as S.2175.
“We’re Too Close to the Debris”On January 16, 2026, ATC instructed Caribbean flights to avoid the FAA’s debris zone after a SpaceX Starship rocket exploded. Dozens of planes made sharp turns to avoid the danger zone, which was closed for 86 minutes. ProPublica says this made “pilots and passengers unwitting participants in SpaceX’s test of the most powerful rocket ever built.”
Army Punches Its MV-75 Tiltrotor Program Into OverdriveThe Army wants to see the MV-25 testing this year and in service in 2027. Just twelve months ago, the Army targeted 2030. At the 2022 competition, service was expected in the mid-2030s.
The MV-75 is the designation given to the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) tiltrotor. The design is based on the Bell V-280 Valor tiltrotor and will replace many of the H-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The V-280 demonstrator has flown, but not the MV-75 configuration.
Qatari 747 to fly as Trump’s Air Force One this summerIn May 2025, the US government accepted the 747 jetliner donated by the Qatari government to serve as a new Air Force One. Modifications began in September. An Air Force spokesperson said in a statement that delivery of the aircraft is anticipated no later than summer 2026.
Calling it a “VC-25 bridge aircraft,” the Trump administration intends this plane to serve as an interim Air Force One while waiting for the two 747s currently being modified by Boeing. The Air Force is expecting the first Boeing-modified 747 to be handed over in “mid-2028,” a delay of roughly four years.
London’s Heathrow eases liquid and laptop rules after £1 billion security upgradeThe airport completed a £1bn CT scanner upgrade across all four Heathrow terminals. This allows passengers to carry liquid containers up to two liters, and the removal of laptops from bags is no longer required.
7 dead, 1 seriously injured in plane crash at airport in Bangor, Maine, FAA saysA Bombardier CL-600-2B16 Challenger 650 veered off the runway on takeoff and crashed at Bangor International Airport in Maine. There was snow at the time of the plane crash due to a large winter storm. See also: Private jet carrying 8 crashes at Maine airport, FAA says.
Hosts this EpisodeMax Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Brian Coleman.
- Visa fler
