Aviation News Roundup January 12 – January 18 2025
- Blade Introduces $95 Helicopter Commutes to NYC – Blade, a helicopter service company, has launched a premium commuter service offering flights from Long Island and New Jersey to New York City for $95 per ride. This initiative aims to provide a faster alternative to traditional commuting methods.
- US Army Collaborates with Skyryse to Enhance Black Hawk Helicopters – The US Army is partnering with aerospace company Skyryse to integrate the SkyOS flight operating system into Black Hawk helicopters. This collaboration aims to reduce pilot training time and introduce optionally-piloted capabilities to the fleet.
- Air New Zealand Named World’s Safest Airline – AirlineRatings.com has ranked Air New Zealand as the safest airline globally for 2025, citing its modern fleet and high safety standards. Among U.S. carriers, Alaska Airlines was the highest-ranked at 9th place.
- Joby Aviation Progresses Toward Commercial Air Taxi Operations – Joby Aviation, valued at $5.2 billion, is advancing its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxis, with plans to commence commercial operations by the end of 2025, starting in Dubai. The company has completed thousands of test flights and is working toward certification.
- Ryanair Advocates for Alcohol Sale Limits at EU Airports – Following a costly flight diversion due to an unruly passenger, Ryanair is urging European authorities to impose a two-drink limit for passengers at airports to enhance safety and reduce disruptive behavior.
- Former US Marine Pilot Challenges Extradition – Daniel Edmund Duggan, a former US marine pilot, is contesting the Australian Attorney-General’s decision to extradite him to the US over allegations of illegally training foreign pilots. Duggan denies the charges and remains in custody pending a judicial review.
- Southwest Airlines Pauses Hiring to Cut Costs – Southwest Airlines is temporarily halting corporate hiring and summer internships as part of broader efforts to reduce costs and strengthen financial performance amid investor pressure.
- Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Faces Potential Jet Fuel Shortage: Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport is facing a potential jet fuel shortage due to a refinery setback, prompting airlines to adjust fuel management strategies.
- SpaceX Starship Explosion Causes Flight Disruptions: A SpaceX Starship test flight ended in an explosion, resulting in debris falling over the Caribbean. The incident led to temporary flight diversions and delays in the area.
- Vilnius Airport’s New Departures Terminal Set for Launch: Vilnius Airport is set to open its new departures terminal in February 2025, following successful mass testing, to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.
- Qatar Airways Launches AI-Powered Digital Cabin Crew: Qatar Airways has introduced Sama, the world’s first AI-powered digital cabin crew member, enhancing passenger engagement on social media platforms.
- Lufthansa Finalizes Acquisition of ITA Airways Stake: Lufthansa has completed the acquisition of a 41% stake in Italy’s state-owned airline, ITA Airways, for €325 million. This strategic move enhances Lufthansa’s presence in the southern European market.
- Mysterious Airstrip Appears on Yemeni Island: A new airstrip is nearing completion on Yemen’s remote Abd al-Kuri Island amidst ongoing Houthi rebel attacks. The construction, likely by the UAE, could facilitate military operations in the Gulf of Aden.
- Southwest Airlines Pilot Arrested for DUI – A Southwest Airlines pilot was arrested and charged with DUI before a scheduled takeoff at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, leading to a nearly five-hour flight delay.
- Brussels Airlines Launches New Publicity Campaign – Brussels Airlines has initiated a new publicity campaign to highlight its Belgian heritage, aiming to strengthen brand identity and customer connection.
- Norwegian Air Force Tests Synthetic Aviation Fuel – The Norwegian Air Force has become the first F-35 customer to use synthetic aviation fuel (SAF), marking a significant step toward sustainable military aviation.
- PLAY Airlines Reduces North American Routes – PLAY Airlines has announced a 40% reduction in its North American routes as part of a new strategic approach, focusing on optimizing operations and profitability. These developments reflect the dynamic nature of the aviation industry, encompassing advancements in technology, strategic partnerships, and a focus on sustainability.
Pilot Training Updates:
- TUI Airline applications for its 2025 Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) Cadet Programme are about to close at the end of the month. This 19-month training is designed for individuals with little or no flying experience, leading to a position as a Cadet Pilot flying the Boeing 737. Applications close on January 31.
- Malaysia Airlines is accepting applications for its Cadet Pilot Trainee program, targeting passionate individuals ready to embark on a flying career. The application deadline is January 17, 2025.
- British Airways Confirms Return of Speedbird Pilot Academy: British Airways has confirmed the return of its Speedbird Pilot Academy in 2025, aiming to develop a strong base of future pilots. Webinars are scheduled for January 2025 to provide more information.
Airlines Hiring Pilots:
- Emirates Airline is conducting a recruitment drive for pilots in Amsterdam, starting January 20, 2025. Positions include First Officers, Captains, Flight Instructors, and CRM Instructors.
- Delta Air Lines anticipates normalizing its pilot hiring in 2025, following a slowdown in 2024. The airline expects to hire approximately 5,000 new pilots to meet operational demands.
- United Airlines Actively Recruiting Pilots: United Airlines is actively recruiting pilots to meet its expanding route network and increasing flight operations, offering competitive compensation packages.
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