Episodios

  • 872 Lithium-ion Battery Fires

    872 Lithium-ion Battery Fires
    Dec 3 2025
    We talk about Lithium-ion batteries on aircraft with the president and chief executive officer of UL Standards & Engagement. In the news this episode, we have some recent Lithium-ion battery issues on commercial flights, the A320-family corruption of flight data due to solar activity, and network-based location trackers for checked bags. Guest Jeff Marootian is the president and chief executive officer of UL Standards & Engagement (ULSE), a nonprofit safety advocacy organization. Jeff leads global efforts to advance safety and sustainability through standards development and advocacy. He is also a leading authority on rechargeable batteries and travel safety. ULSE has developed a new campaign to raise awareness of the fire risks associated with rechargeable devices in aviation at A Simple Step for a Safer Flight. It provides good information for people planning to travel. Jeff explains that Lithium-ion battery incidents are rare, but their frequency is increasing in airports and in the air. ULSE advocates for keeping rechargeable devices within arm’s reach, and certainly not in checked baggage. We look at Lithium-ion thermal runaway, and Jeff tells us that it often results from batteries that are damaged, poorly constructed, or lack certification to a safety standard. Other topics we cover include the use of containment devices on airplanes, the need for a consensus process to deal with devices that are smoking or on fire, and how a coalition of stakeholders is working to address these concerns. Jeff also tells us what to look for when making a decision to purchase a rechargeable device. For more, see: Lithium-Ion Battery Incidents in Aviation: 2024 Data Review. Previously, Jeff led the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy, following roles as Senior Advisor to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and as a Special Assistant to the President in the Biden-Harris White House. Aviation News Eight People Rushed To Hospital After Smoking Battery Pack Fills Airplane Cabin With Toxic Fumes While passengers were boarding a Scandinavian airline SAS A320 at Norway’s Oslo Airport, smoke started pouring out of a portable battery pack in a passenger’s bag, filling the cabin with toxic smoke. The crew used a Halon fire extinguisher on the bag and removed it from the plane, then transferred it to the tarmac, where the airport fire brigade took over. The battery pack did relight before it was contained. Eight people were taken to the hospital with suspected toxic smoke inhalation, and all were discharged within 48 hours. United Flight Diverts to Dublin After Another Laptop Falls Into Business Class Seat A passenger’s laptop computer became trapped in the business class seat on United Airlines Flight UA925 flight from London to Washington. The plane was forced to make an unscheduled landing in Dublin. Solar flare vulnerability in A320 software forces emergency action by airlines In a recent press release, (Airbus update on A320 Family precautionary fleet action), Airbus said, “Analysis of a recent event involving an A320 Family aircraft has revealed that intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to the functioning of flight controls.” Airbus consequently identified a significant number of A320 Family aircraft currently in service that may be impacted. The “recent event” was the uncommanded drop in altitude by a JetBlue A320 on October 30, 2025 that resulted in injuries and an emergency landing. Airbus says that “The subsequent investigation [After the incident] identified a vulnerability with the ELAC B hardware fitted with software L104 in case of exposure to solar flares. This identified vulnerability could lead in the worst case scenario to an uncommanded elevator movement that may result in exceeding the aircraft structural capability.” Airlines are instructed, according to The Air Current, “to either roll back to an earlier version of the software or replace the affected elevator aileron computer (ELAC) hardware with one containing the older software version. The maintenance action is expected to take three hours, according to the Airbus advisory.” AirTag’s newest feature could work even better now for many travelers The Apple AirTag is useful for tracking the location of objects. There are other Bluetooth and network-based trackers available from Tile, Samsung, Chipolo, and other manufacturers. Air travelers use these trackers to locate their lost luggage. Last year, Apple introduced a “Share Item Location” feature. With the latest upgrade, you can share an AirTag’s location with select airlines, allowing them to locate your luggage quickly. The AirTag API enables the seamless flow of detailed location information directly into an airline’s backend. Apple and Delta have developed a tool that airlines can use. Mentioned Airlines Hiring Anyone Who Looks Good In Crisp Uniform To Offset Pilot Shortage Boeing Tackles Quality ...
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    1 h y 24 m
  • 871 QF32 A380 Uncontained Engine Failure

    871 QF32 A380 Uncontained Engine Failure
    Nov 26 2025
    The captain of an A380 that experienced an uncontained engine failure, paying air traffic controllers during a shutdown, a $10,000 bonus for those who worked, NTSB preliminary report on UPS Flight 2976, a request for information on a new ATC system, dressing better when flying commercially, and going through airport security without a Real ID. Guest Richard De Crespigny was the captain of Qantas Flight QF32 on November 4, 2010, when one of the plane’s Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines experienced an uncontained engine failure. The A380 had just taken off from Singapore. Richard and his crew managed to get everyone home safely, and the story has since become a bit of a legend in Australian flying circles. Richard is a former RAAF pilot, has written books, given keynotes around the world, and now hosts his own podcast on resilience and leadership called FLY! Richard explains that the uncontained engine failure on Qantas Flight QF32 involved the Number 2 engine. This resulted in extensive damage to the aircraft and many system failures. Five pilots were in the cockpit, and they formed a “hive mind,” making hundreds of decisions to stabilize the aircraft, which took two hours. A hundred checklists were actioned in the air, and more when the A380 was back on the ground. The incident was so complex that it has been characterized as “Apollo 13 with passengers.” We learn what was said in the cockpit during the first 30 seconds, and how the cabin crew performed because the flight deck could not communicate with them. In his mind, Richard set up to perform an “Armstrong Spiral” in case all four engines went out when landing the plane. On approach, speed and stall warnings were sounding constantly because the systems could not handle all the damage. Richard explains why he decided not to immediately evacuate the passengers due to the dangers outside. This uncontained engine failure crippled the A380, yet the crew was able to manage the situation and there were no injuries. Richard speaks frequently of “resilience” and how that characteristic worked to their advantage. QF32 uncontained engine failure. From the FAA Airbus A380-842 report, crediting the ATSB accident report. Since the incident, Richard has published several books: QF32 tells the story of what happened. It was published before the investigators made all the facts public, so Richard had to hold back. However, a new edition will fill in the missing pieces. The newer book Fly! tells the how and the why. Check out: The FLY! Podcast with Richard De Crespigny, available on Apple / Spotify / Omny, or wherever you listen to podcasts. The QF32 book and the FLY! book. Reach Richard at richardd@aeronaut.biz. Aviation News US airline group urges Congress to pay controllers during future shutdowns Trade group Airlines for America (A4A) wants to see air traffic controllers get paid during future government shutdowns. Chris Sununu, A4A President and CEO, said, "This shutdown has demonstrated the serious safety, human and economic consequences of subjecting the aviation sector to this kind of stress and chaos. It must never happen again." Air Traffic Controllers Say $10,000 Shutdown Bonuses Are Tearing the Workforce Apart - And Jeopardize Safety The Administration wants to give air traffic controllers and TSA screeners $10,000 if they had perfect attendance during the shutdown. DOT Secretary Sean Duffy said this would apply to 776 employees. Some controllers are expressing their displeasure with this move. UPS Flight 2976 Crash During Takeoff The NTSB has issued a Preliminary Report [PDF] on the UPS Flight 2967 MD-11F accident November 4, 2025. The airplane, N259UP, was destroyed after it impacted the ground shortly after takeoff from runway 17R at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), Louisville, Kentucky. The 3 crewmembers aboard the airplane and 11 people on the ground were fatally injured. There were 23 others on the ground who were injured. Still images from an airport surveillance video show the left engine and left pylon separation from the left wing. The left pylon aft mount’s forward and aft lugs were both found fractured. The fractured and separated upper portions of the forward and aft lugs were found adjacent to runway 17R. The left wing clevis, aft mount spherical bearing, and aft mount attachment hardware were found with a portion of the left wing at the accident site. The spherical bearing outer race had fractured circumferentially. FAA Issues Request for Information on New ATC System The FAA aims to replace the current En Route Automation Modernization system (ERAM) and the Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS) with a single, unified system, known as the Common Automation Platform (CAP). The Agency’s Request For Information [PDF] asks the public to answer a series of questions. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Urges Passengers To Dress Better — But That Won’t Fix Today’s Inflight ...
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    1 h y 27 m
  • 870 Airbus A350F

    870 Airbus A350F
    Nov 19 2025
    The final assembly rollout of the first Airbus A350F freighter, the ICAO-mandated emissions standards that take effect in 2027, flight delay compensation, a streaming data black box, IAE signals future GTF engine, and FAA flight restrictions end. Additionally, updates on Boeing's criminal and civil cases, the USS Forrestal aircraft carrier, and listener mail. Aviation News First A350F airframe rolled out from final assembly line The Airbus A350F freighter was launched in 2021 and originally scheduled to enter service in 2025, but Spirit AeroSystems’ inability to deliver enough central fuselage sections prevented that. Spirit AeroSystems has experienced quality control and production output issues, compounded by financial challenges and a pending business restructuring involving both Airbus and Boeing.​ These issues affected both the freighter and passenger A350 production rates. The A350F is designed to meet the ICAO-mandated emissions standards taking effect in 2027. The standards also work in coordination with ICAO’s CORSIA scheme, requiring carbon offsetting for most international flights from 2027–2035, with mandatory participation for most states.​ A350F rendering, courtesy Airbus. Trump Admin Blocks Plan to Force Airlines to Pay Customers for Delays Flight cancellations by US airlines result in refunds for passengers, but flight delays are not compensated. The Biden-era proposal would have required airlines to pay cash compensation to passengers when carriers are responsible for major flight delays. The FAA said the proposal would create “unnecessary regulatory burdens” and impose significant costs on airlines. The DOT said it preferred to “allow airlines to compete on the services and compensation they provide.” Black Box in the Sky Captures Data on the Fly Honeywell Aerospace is developing a system it calls “Black Box in the Sky” (BBITS). It replaces hardware-based recorders with streamed flight data in near real-time. BBITS streams data via a cloud-based portal, simplifying flight data collection, and is consistent with the ICAO Timely Recovery of Flight Data (TRFD) mandate. The ICAO Timely Recovery of Flight Data (TRFD) technical standard, part of the Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS), requires that aircraft use technologies that ensure flight data is quickly and reliably accessible for investigators after an incident, without needing to physically recover the flight data recorder (FDR), particularly in cases such as accidents over water. TRFD applies to large commercial aircraft with type certification applications submitted after January 1, 2021. See: Honeywell to Connect 'Black Boxes' for Aviation Safety. IAE partners reaffirm GTF engine push for next-generation single-aisle jets International Aero Engines (IAE) is a joint venture formed in 1983 to develop the new V2500 engine for the 150-seat single-aisle aircraft market. The initial consortium was Pratt & Whitney (30%), Rolls-Royce (30%), Japanese Aero Engine Corporation (JAEC) (23%), MTU Aero Engines (11%), and Fiat (6%). Fiat later withdrew, and its share was taken over by Rolls-Royce and Pratt & Whitney. Then Pratt bought out RR in 2012, making PW the majority shareholder. The V2500 powers the Airbus A320 family and the McDonnell Douglas MD-90. More than 7,800 engines have been sold. In a statement, (IAE international engine partnership marks key milestones and charts future propulsion path), the consortium said, “Together, the companies will evolve the required technologies for the development of the most advanced and efficient GTF engine technology for the next generation of commercial aircraft.” Aerotime comments that “IAE is signaling that an evolutionary path may offer lower risk than more disruptive architectures, such as open-rotor systems or hydrogen-powered solutions.” Shane Eddy, president, Pratt & Whitney, said, "As founding partners on some of the most critical engine technology and support in aerospace today, we remain fully committed to these engine programs and working together on the development of future commercial aircraft applications, particularly the next generation single aisle aircraft. As we work to chart IAE's future propulsion path, our performance on today's GTF program will remain our highest priority as we continue to focus on delivering to our customer commitments." Trump administration ends flight cuts at busy airports The FAA’s flight cuts at 40 major airports ended, and the DOT emergency directive was cancelled. DOT pointed to a decline in air traffic controller-related staffing triggers. Controllers received 70 percent of the pay they were owed during the shutdown. FAA said staffing levels have continued to snap back into place since the end of the government shutdown. The current data aligns with staffing conditions before the shutdown.” Boeing Update Erin Applebaum, attorney at aviation accident law firm Kriendler & Kriendler, describes the ...
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    1 h y 20 m
  • 869 Government Shutdown

    869 Government Shutdown
    Nov 12 2025
    The impact of the Federal government shutdown on commercial flights and private jets, the MD-11 fleet-wide grounding after the UPS crash, Bombardier Global 8000 cabin pressure, the FAA's desire for flight schools to conduct their own pilot testing, United flight attendant priorities, the oldest airports in the world, and a new center wing box for Fat Albert. Aviation News BWI-Marshall on FAA's list of airports for reduced flights amid federal government shutdown The FAA is requiring airlines to reduce flights by 10% at 40 high-volume airports. Thousands of flights have been cancelled or delayed as the flight reductions cascade through the network. FAA grounds private jets at 12 major US airports as government shutdown chaos worsens The FAA shut down private jet and business aviation operations at 12 airports: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) Denver International Airport (DEN) General Edward Lawrence Logan International Airport (BOS) George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy told CNN that flights were being limited to “reduce the pressure on controllers.” See Private Jets Grounded at a Dozen Airports Nationwide. The NBAA’s CEO Ed Bolen said that the restrictions were “disproportionately impacting general aviation, an industry that creates more than a million jobs, generates $340 billion in economic impact and supports humanitarian flights every day.” Trump threatens air traffic controllers who fail to return to work as flight cancellations jump "All Air Traffic Controllers must get back to work, NOW!!! Anyone who doesn't will be substantially 'docked.’” UPS, FedEx ground MD-11 fleets after deadly Louisville crash UPS flight 2976, an MD-11, crashed on November 4, 2025, shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The left-hand engine and its pylon detached from the airplane during takeoff, and the MD-11 crashed into a nearby neighborhood, resulting in at least 14 fatalities, including the three crew members onboard and numerous casualties on the ground. Following the crash, the FAA grounded all MD-11 and MD-11F aircraft. MD-11F operators UPS and FedEx also voluntarily grounded their MD-11 aircraft out of an abundance of caution, following Boeing's recommendation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation. From Aviation News Talk: 403 UPS MD-11 Crash Analysis + Dr. Catherine Cavagnaro on How to Make Better Landings Bombardier Global 8000 Sets Cabin Altitude Record At Mach 0.95, Bombardier says the Global 8000 will be the fastest business jet in the world and have a cabin altitude of 2,691 feet while flying at 41,000 feet. Most commercial aircraft maintain cabin pressure at levels equivalent to 6,000–8,000 feet above sea level. Business jets generally operate at a pressure equivalent of between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. Global 8000, courtesy Bombardier. FAA To Encourage More Flight Schools To Conduct Testing Themselves A designated pilot examiner (DPE) shortage is resulting in a checkride backlog. Only 74 of 509 certificated flight schools have the authority to do their own testing for pilot certificates. In response, the FAA wants more schools to run the tests themselves. A reduction in flight school surveillance to assess whether a school can qualify to do its own testing makes a policy change easier. United Airlines Flight Attendants Reveal New List of Demands After Rejecting Contract Deal In July 2025, the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA) recommended that United Airlines flight attendants accept the proposed contract; however, 71% of the voting membership rejected it. At the time, the union felt the proposed contract was the best that could be achieved. Since then, the union has worked to understand what contract areas were of most concern to the flight attendants. Eight focus areas were identified. The next bargaining session is scheduled to take place in early December. Oldest Airports in the World, No.6 Will Surprise You A surprising and historically informative list. Blue Angels’ “Fat Albert” to Undergo Center Wing Box Replacement in the UK “Fat Albert” is the KC-130J Super Hercules that supports the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. It’s off to Marshall Aerospace in Cambridge, UK, to have its center wing box replaced, extending its service life by 20 years. This particular plane is the former Royal Air Force Hercules C5 ZH885, which was refurbished and repainted by Marshall Aerospace, an authorized Lockheed Martin C-130J heavy maintenance center. See: US Navy bringing ‘Fat Albert’ back to Marshall ...
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    1 h y 18 m
  • 868 X-59 Supersonic Aircraft

    868 X-59 Supersonic Aircraft
    Nov 5 2025
    The first flight of the Lockheed Martin X-59 supersonic Aircraft, Boom Supersonic, the end of SeatGuru, JetBlue emergency landing, new Navy jet trainer, and an Airbus A400M is delivered to Indonesia. Also, a talk with Cranky Flier and the certification of Chinese commercial jets. Aviation News NASA takes one step closer to launching quiet supersonic jets Lockheed Martin Skunk Works®, in partnership with NASA, completed the first flight of the X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft. The X-59 is designed to demonstrate the ability to fly at supersonic speeds while reducing the sonic boom to a “gentle thump.” Lockheed Martin X59 first flight. The X-59 took off from Skunk Works' facility at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California, before landing near NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. Lockheed Martin says “the X-59 performed exactly as planned.” Working with NASA, Skunk Works will continue to lead the aircraft's initial flight test campaign to expand the X-59's flight envelope over the coming months. Part of this test will include the X-59's first supersonic flights and enable NASA to operate the X-59 to measure its sound signature and conduct community acceptance testing. Lockheed Martin press release: X-59 Soars: A New Era in Supersonic Flight Begins. Douglas X-3 Stiletto. Related: Boom Supersonic – Overture Airliner Program Outlook. The Overture remains targeted for a first flight in 2027, followed by a goal of certification by 2029. Boom is assembling and testing components for its in-house Symphony turbofan engine, with manufacturing and validation underway at its Colorado R&D facility. Full-scale engine tests are anticipated in 2026. At least 15 people sent to hospital after JetBlue flight drops altitude, forcing emergency landing in Florida, officials say In a statement, JetBlue said Flight 1230 from Cancun, Mexico, to Newark, New Jersey, “experienced a drop in altitude.” The plane diverted to Tampa International Airport, and at least 15 people were sent to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and discharged. The Airbus A320 dropped about 100 feet in about seven seconds. The FAA is investigating a “flight control issue.” End Of An Era: SeatGuru Officially Shuts Down, Redirects To TripAdvisor SeatGuru was launched in 2001 and was widely used by air travelers to examine airline seat maps of most aircraft types. TripAdvisor acquired SeatGuru in 2007, but by early 2020, updates to the seat maps ceased. Seatguru.com now displays the message “SeatGuru has closed down, please visit Tripadvisor to plan your next trip.” TripAdvisor doesn’t offer the service that SeatGuru once did. Alternatives include AeroLOPA, SeatMaps, Expert Flyer, and AwardFares. United Airlines CEO Aligns With Trump, Eyes JetBlue Merger? United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby appeared at the White House alongside Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, voicing strong support for reopening the U.S. government without conditions. Kirby emphasized the strain on air traffic control and the airline industry amid the prolonged government shutdown. He called for a “clean continuing resolution.” Some observers speculate that Kirby has a strategy to integrate JetBlue’s operations in the Northeast with United’s existing Newark operations and a potential Boston expansion. T-45 to Depart the Pattern The T-45 Goshawk Navy jet trainer was originally manufactured by McDonnell Douglas, which merged with Boeing in 1997. The Navy wants a replacement for the Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program. Vying for the contract are the SNC Freedom Trainer and the Beechcraft M-346N. The Navy expects to formally announce a request for proposals in December 2025 and award a contract in January 2027. Airbus delivers first A400M to Indonesia The Indonesian Air Force will operate the Airbus Defence and Space A400M heavy tactical airlift aircraft. The second A400M is expected to be delivered to Indonesia in 2026. Airbus will be providing the Indonesian Air Force with training and support services. Indonesia will study the potential integration of the newly developed A400M roll-on / roll-off modular firefighting kit on board both aircraft. The Airbus A400M is powered by four Europrop TP400-D6 turboprop engines, each rated at 11,000 horsepower. These are the most powerful turboprop engines in operational use in the Western world. On each wing, using a gearbox, one engine’s propeller rotates clockwise and the other counterclockwise to optimize lift and avoid premature stalling. Called "down between engines" (DBE), the propeller closer to the fuselage rotates so its blade tips move downward between the two engines on that wing, while the outboard engine’s propeller rotates in the opposite direction. Video: Airbus A400M Engine Start up at linz airport https://youtu.be/E7ZtXcTkEp0?si=a0cPn3roU10nZuPn Cranky Flier Brian Coleman ran into Brett Snyder at the 2025 APEX ...
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    1 h y 7 m
  • 867 The Airline Observer

    867 The Airline Observer
    Oct 29 2025
    Guest Brian Sumers tells us about The Airline Observer newsletter and The Airshow Podcast. Erin Applebaum updates us on the Boeing litigation and Delta Flight 4819 that rolled over on landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport in February 2025. In the news, the LOT Polish Airlines’ fraud case against Boeing is set to go to a jury trial, the FAA approves a 737 MAX production increase, the IAM rejects Boeing’s Latest Offer, controller staffing shortages are impacting operations, and engine shortages are affecting airlines and the leasing market Guest Brian Sumers Brian Sumers produces The Airline Observer newsletter dedicated to news and analysis about the global airline business. He covers every facet of the industry except operations. The newsletter targets professionals working in the airline and travel industries, but others with an interest in the industry will also find it valuable. Brian can also be found on The Airshow Podcast with Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder. Brian explains the types of stories he enjoys reporting on, including the people behind the industry, who is up and who is down, loyalty programs, and revenue management. He’s been covering airlines for some 15 years and tells us about the lack of airline policy and procedures clarity, and who understands their competition and who doesn’t. We hear his thoughts about his recent interviews with Scott Kirby and Sir Tim Clark, some of the hot-button issues that airlines see ahead, and the future of LCCs in the U.S. Brian is a professional journalist with more than a decade of expertise covering airlines. He has written for Skift, Aviation Week, Conde Nast Traveler, the Los Angeles Times, and the Wall Street Journal. Brian is often found in major media discussing airline news, with recent appearances in the Washington Post, New York Times, and Boston Globe, as well as on CNN, ABC News, and CBS News. He attended Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, has a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School, and an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management. Aviation News LOT Polish Airlines’ Fraud Case Against Boeing Set to Go to Jury Trial LOT Polish Airlines’ fraud and misrepresentation case against Boeing is proceeding to a jury trial scheduled for November 3, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. LOT alleges that Boeing rushed the 737 MAX to market, bypassed proper engineering protocols, withheld safety-critical details from regulators, and misled airline customers about the scope and safety of design changes from previous 737 models. The airline claims that these actions led to its belief that the 737 MAX was airworthy and economically advantageous. LOT claims at least $250 million in losses from the grounding, including lost revenue, storage costs, and expenses for replacing the unfit aircraft. After months of limits, FAA allows Boeing to increase MAX production The FAA has approved an increase in the production cap for Boeing's 737 MAX jets, allowing for the manufacture of 42 aircraft per month. This follows a review of Boeing's manufacturing processes and safety controls. The FAA will continue to supervise Boeing’s operations and monitor the manufacturer’s safety and quality culture. The rate increase helps Boeing's financial situation by accelerating cash flow, improving debt serviceability, and restoring investor confidence. Workers reject Boeing's latest offer after nearly three months on strike The roughly 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 at Boeing Defense in the St. Louis area rejected the company's latest contract proposal. In a statement, Boeing said "We’re disappointed with the vote result" and "we are turning our focus to executing the next phase of our contingency plan." Boeing’s latest contract offer reduced the ratification bonus, added $3,000 in Boeing shares that vest over three years, and added a $1,000 retention bonus in four years. Wage growth for workers at the top of the pay scale increased in the fourth year of the contract. Flights to Los Angeles International Airport halted due to air traffic controller shortage Controller staffing shortages have halted some flights departing for LAX, and staffing-related delays have occurred at Chicago, Washington, and Newark, New Jersey. The temporary FAA ground stop was not expected to be the only time flights will be delayed and canceled as the air traffic controllers work without pay during the federal government shutdown. How engine shortages sent almost-new Airbus jets to the scrapyard Due to a global shortage of commercial jet engines, especially Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engine, aircraft are being grounded, and airline costs are increasing worldwide. The situation is so bad that some nearly new aircraft are being stripped for their engines and valuable components, because the ...
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    1 h y 23 m
  • 866 AvBrief, All People And No AI

    866 AvBrief, All People And No AI
    Oct 15 2025
    The AvBrief editor-in-chief describes how the new aviation news service relies on humans to research and write aviation news. Also, the impact of the federal government shutdown on air traffic controllers and how they may influence a resolution of the shutdown, modernization of the 109th Airlift Wing ski squadron, and an idea to allocate some Essential Air Service (EAS) subsidies to rural bus services. Guest Russ Niles is Editor-in-Chief of AVBrief, a new website and newsletter that offers aviation news written and researched by humans involved in aviation. Russ has been a pilot for 35 years and owns a 1946 Cessna 140. He has been an aviation journalist since 2003 and was editor-in-chief at AvWeb until July 31, 2025, when he and several others in senior positions were unexpectedly let go. Russ wasn’t done being an aviation journalist, and he, along with some fellow journalists, launched AvBrief on August 3, 2025. Russ strongly believes that AI-based journalism cannot effectively create good aviation news content. Rather, it must come from human journalists, and this is a hallmark of AvBrief. The free AvBrief newsletter is currently published three times a week, but Russ sees that growing to a daily email. You can sign up for that at AvBrief.com. In addition to the news stories on the website, you’ll also find The Smart Aviator with new products, flight reviews, and best practices for maintenance and airmanship. Russ hopes this will grow into its own online publication. Aviation News As more air traffic controllers miss work, Transportation secretary threatens to fire ‘problem children’ controllers The CNN article describes how the ongoing government shutdown is causing widespread staffing shortages among U.S. air traffic controllers, leading to significant delays and disruptions at major airports. At least 11 FAA locations are affected, including key hubs like Chicago O'Hare, Newark, Orlando, Denver, and regional facilities, where control towers are operating with fewer controllers, resulting in delays of up to 90 minutes. In Duffy Threatens Dismissal for Controllers Who Falsely Call in Sick, AvBrief reports that in an interview on Fox Business, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said, “If we have a continual small subset of controllers that don’t show up to work, and they’re the problem children … if we have some on our staff that aren’t dedicated like we need, we’re going to let them go. I can’t have people not showing up for work.” TSA agents helped end a government shutdown before. Could they do it again? Staffing shortages among TSA agents and air traffic controllers are causing airport delays during the ongoing government shutdown. Could their actions exert pressure an to end the shutdown? The National Air Traffic Controllers Association is urging all controllers to keep coming to work, but recognizes that some may choose not to attend due to the financial strain. Ultimately, only Congress can end a shutdown, but the impact of worker shortages—travel delays and safety concerns—has historically played a part in resolving previous government shutdowns. Vital Ski Squadron Modernization Getting Budget Attention Strategic concerns over increased military activity by China and Russia in the Arctic have prompted U.S. lawmakers and the Pentagon to accelerate modernization of the New York Air National Guard’s 109th Airlift Wing, which operates unique ski-equipped C-130s supporting polar operations. Recently, $29 million was reallocated to fast-track the development of a new ski-equipped C-130J model to replace the aging LC-130H “Ski Bird” fleet that has become increasingly unreliable and difficult to maintain due to its age—some aircraft are between 30 and 50 years old. As Congress weighs rural air subsidies ... what about rural bus service? Essential Air Service (EAS) provides federal subsidies (about $550 million annually in the lower 48 and Hawaii) to ensure small, remote communities stay connected by air, enabling residents to reach family and medical services more easily. The article examines whether the current federal subsidies through the EAS program could be more effectively allocated to rural bus services. Mentioned Kenny Dichter Returns to Private Aviation with the Launch of REAL JET Between a Rock and a Hard Spot, commentary on Jetwhine.com. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, Rob Mark, our Main(e) Man Micah, and David Vanderhoof.
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    1 h y 21 m
  • 865 Brand New Air Traffic Control System

    865 Brand New Air Traffic Control System
    Oct 1 2025
    Two companies bid to become the Brand New Air Traffic Control System prime integrator, FAA issues carry-on SAFO, 737 MAX production limits eased, P&W and GE adaptive cycle engines, Sikorsky contract for CH-53K helicopters, and Sergei Sikorsky passes away at age 100. Aviation News Two bidders vie to be project manager of massive FAA US air traffic overhaul Two bids to become the prime integrator in the FAA’s project to overhaul the air traffic control system have been received. Congress has approved $12.5 billion for the Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS), and the Agency has indicated that an additional $19 billion might be requested. The bids come from two DC Beltway companies: Peraton is a national security company owned by Veritas Capital and headquartered in Reston, Virginia. See the press release: Peraton Offers the FAA a Brand New Approach for Its Revolutionary ATC Modernization Initiative. Parsons Corporation is a technology provider in national security and global infrastructure markets. Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, Parsons confirmed it has bid with IBM. The FAA says it will make a selection by the end of October. FAA urges airlines to discourage passengers from taking bags during evacuations The FAA issued Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO 25003, PDF) titled “Addressing Risk Associated with Passenger Non-Compliance and Retention of Carry-On Baggage and Personal Items During Emergency Evacuations.” The SAFO “Serves to emphasize the operational and safety-critical importance of strict passenger compliance with crewmember instructions during emergency evacuations. Specifically, it addresses the adverse effects of passengers attempting to evacuate with carry-on items, which can significantly impede evacuation procedures and increase the potential for injury or fatality.” FAA Signals Easing of Oversight on Boeing Jets The FAA is expecting to restore Boeing’s ability to conduct safety sign-offs on new 737 MAX jets. Final airworthiness certificates will continue to be issued by the regulator The FAA is also considering increasing Boeing’s 737 MAX production cap from 38 to 42 planes per month. Engines for America's F-47 Sixth Gen Combat Aircraft Coming Together Faster Than Expected The F-47 is being developed as part of the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) Family of Systems. It’s a stealthy air superiority aircraft that can directly engage adversaries on the ground and in the air. It will be able to fly itself as well as collaborate with and control wingman drones. The propulsion system being developed under the Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) program is a concept that offers two modes of operation, which can be dynamically adjusted in flight: high thrust and high speed, and lower thrust with reduced fuel burn. Adaptive cycle engines can modulate the bypass ratio and fan pressure using a third air stream and advanced variable geometry components. Both Pratt & Whitney and General Electric are developing NGAP engines. Airbus, Air France reject blame over AF447 crash, 16 years on Air France 447 crashed in the Atlantic in 2009. In a 2023 trial, the judge found acts of negligence by Airbus and Air France, but determined that, under French criminal law, these acts were insufficient to establish a definitive link to the loss of the A330. Both Airbus and Air France were cleared of corporate manslaughter. In an appeals hearing, the two companies pleaded not guilty. Air France and Airbus chief executives recognized the suffering of the families, but denied any criminal responsibility for the crash. Appeal hearings are expected to run until late November 2025. Sikorsky to Build 99 CH-53K King Stallions for the U.S. Marine Corps Sikorsky announced the award of a $10.8 billion contract from the U.S. Navy to build up to 99 CH-53K King Stallion helicopters for the U.S. Marine Corps over the next five years. The Marines plan to procure 200 CH-53K King Stallions in total. Sikorsky has delivered 20 helicopters so far, and an additional 63 aircraft are in various stages of production. Sergei Sikorsky, son of Sikorsky Aircraft founder, dies age 100 Sergei had a 41-year career at Sikorsky, starting at age 16. After retiring, he continued to represent the company and his family's legacy as a goodwill ambassador at trade shows and other events. Sergei was a World War II veteran, serving in the helicopter development unit of the U.S. Coast Guard. Sergei I. Sikorsky obituary. Hosts this Episode Max Flight, Rob Mark, and our Main(e) Man Micah.
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