Aviation News Roundup week ending 15th Feb 2025

Aviation News Roundup week ending 15th Feb 2025

• Mid-Air Collision Near Washington, D.C.: The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a detailed timeline of the January mid-air collision over the Potomac River, which resulted in 67 fatalities. Preliminary findings suggest that the Black Hawk helicopter crew may have missed air traffic control instructions and used incorrect altitude data. The investigation is ongoing, with a final report expected within a year. 
• Scottsdale Airport Collision: On February 10, a tragic accident occurred at Scottsdale Airport in Arizona when a landing Learjet collided with a parked Gulfstream G200. The collision resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries. The airport was closed for approximately six hours following the incident. 
• Air Canada Expands U.S. Network: Air Canada has announced plans to add 10 to 15 new U.S. destinations by 2028. This expansion is part of the airline’s broader strategy to increase its international reach, which includes new routes to Manila, Naples, Prague, and Porto in 2025. 
• Iberia Increases U.S. Flights: Iberia is set to enhance its global network for the summer 2025 season by operating 140 weekly flights between Spain and the United States, marking a 14% increase from 2024. The expansion includes new routes and increased frequencies to key U.S. destinations. 
• British Airways Reduces U.S. Services: Facing ongoing issues with Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines affecting its Boeing 787 fleet, British Airways has announced further reductions in its U.S. network later this year. Specific routes and frequency adjustments are being evaluated to mitigate operational disruptions. 
• Aero India 2025: The 15th edition of Aero India is taking place from February 10 to 14 in Bengaluru, India. The event features participation from over 100 original equipment manufacturers, including 55 international companies. Notably, both the U.S. F-35 and Russian Su-57 fighter jets are showcased, marking the first time these rival fifth-generation jets are presented together at the event. 
• Influence Over UN Aviation Body: An analysis has revealed significant influence of the aviation and fossil fuel industries over the United Nations’ International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The study highlights a 10 to 1 ratio of industry delegates to environmental group representatives at the last committee meeting, raising concerns about the effectiveness of actions to reduce aircraft carbon emissions. 
• U.S. Federal Agency Restructuring: The newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has initiated measures to cut federal agencies, including NASA, the Department of Education, and the Federal Aviation Administration. These actions have sparked legal challenges and debates regarding their legality and potential conflicts of interest. 
• American Airlines Lawsuit: A passenger has filed a lawsuit against American Airlines following a flight that experienced two emergency landings due to mechanical issues in January 2024. The plaintiff alleges physical and emotional injuries resulting from the incidents and claims inadequate response from the airline. 
• Lufthansa Group Announces Major Recruitment Drive: The Lufthansa Group has unveiled plans to recruit approximately 10,000 new employees in 2025. This initiative aims to bolster various sectors within the group, including over 2,000 flight attendants, 1,400 ground operations staff, and 1,300 technical specialists. Notably, while the group expands its workforce, the core Lufthansa Airlines brand will see a reduction in new hires as part of its ongoing efficiency program. 
• Air Canada Plans U.S. Expansion: Air Canada has announced intentions to add 10 to 15 new U.S. destinations by 2028. This expansion aligns with the airline’s strategy to broaden its international reach, complementing new routes to Manila, Naples, Prague, and Porto slated for 2025. 
• Dallas Love Field to Lose Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines has confirmed its decision to cease operations at Dallas Love Field in the coming months. This departure will leave Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines as the primary carriers serving the North Texas airport. 
• Qatar Airways Cabin Crew Recruitment: Qatar Airways is conducting a walk-in interview session for cabin crew positions on February 15, 2025, in Prague, Czech Republic. This event offers aspiring flight attendants an opportunity to join the airline’s diverse team. 
• Delta Air Lines Opens Flight Attendant Applications: Delta Air Lines has opened applications for its 2025 flight attendant hiring program, aiming to recruit 1,000 new flight attendants. The airline is seeking candidates with and without second language proficiency, emphasizing a commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

Funded pilot training

British Airways Opens Applications for Speedbird Pilot Academy 2025

British Airways has officially opened applications for its Speedbird Pilot Academy, a fully funded cadet program designed to train the next generation of pilots. Following the success of its 2024 intake, BA is investing £21 million ($26.2 million) to support 200 aspiring pilots in achieving their commercial pilot licenses without the financial burden.

The program, which runs from February 11 to February 21, 2025, provides full funding for training at an approved flight school, with graduates guaranteed a position flying for British Airways at either London Gatwick or Heathrow Airport.

The selection process includes online screening, in-person assessments, and final evaluations with British Airways, ensuring candidates possess the necessary skills and motivation. Once trained, cadets will join BA’s 4,000-strong pilot workforce, flying short-haul and long-haul routes worldwide.

Aspiring pilots can apply via BA’s careers website.Need help with applying? Click here

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