News Roundup: Week Ending November 29, 2024
Aurigny Completes Fleet Modernization with Fifth ATR Aircraft
Aurigny has reached a major milestone in fleet development with the delivery of its fifth ATR 72-600. The Guernsey-based airline now operates a rationalized fleet, including two Dornier 228 NGs, streamlining operations and enhancing sustainability.
United Airlines Flight Attendant Fired Over Faith Conversation
United Airlines terminated Ruben Sanchez, a 28-year flight attendant veteran, following complaints about a private conversation regarding his Catholic faith and LGBTQIA views. Sanchez disputes allegations made on social media, claiming they were false and misrepresented.
JetBlue to Downgrade 343 Captains Amid Financial Struggles
JetBlue announced plans to downgrade 343 captains in 2025 due to grounded planes and capacity moderation. Early retirement offers are being discussed as the airline navigates a $60M Q3 loss.
Alaska Airlines Passenger Causes Mid-Flight Chaos
A disruptive passenger on Alaska Airlines Flight 46 physically assaulted her husband, flailed her arms, and banged her head on a seat. She was restrained and removed upon landing. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in prison.
American Airlines Introduces Boarding Group Technology
American Airlines is implementing new technology at over 100 airports to prevent passengers from boarding before their designated group, aiming to improve boarding efficiency.
Icelandair Delays Retirement of Boeing 757-300s
Icelandair will extend the service life of its Boeing 757-300 fleet, citing the aircraft’s unmatched versatility for its unique route network. The airline will continue to operate the jets until replacements are integrated.
Paris Runway Closure to Capture Escaped Dog
Paris Charles-de-Gaulle Airport closed two runways in an effort to capture a dog that escaped its carrier. Despite extensive search efforts, the animal remains at large.
Emirates Receives Its First Airbus A350-900
Emirates has taken delivery of its first A350-900 aircraft, the first of 65 on order. The jet will enter commercial service in January 2025, starting with flights to Edinburgh.
American Airlines and Frontier Aircraft Collide in Boston
An American Airlines Boeing 777 collided with a parked Frontier A321 at Logan Airport. No injuries were reported, but both aircraft were taken out of service for inspection.
British Airways Expands Italian Network
British Airways will launch three new Italian routes in summer 2025: Rimini from Heathrow, Salerno from Gatwick, and Olbia from London City. This expansion brings the total Italian destinations served by BA to 19.
Argentina Removes Mandatory Pilot Age Limit
Argentina’s aviation regulator has scrapped the mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots, citing medical advancements and industry demand. Pilots can now fly beyond the previous age limits.
Virgin Atlantic Delays Routes Due to Engine Issues
Virgin Atlantic has postponed the launch of its Accra route and the resumption of Tel Aviv flights due to ongoing Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine issues. CEO Shai Weiss called the engines a “10-year cycle” of challenges.
China Southern Airlines to Sell Boeing 787-8 Fleet
China Southern Airlines plans to sell its fleet of 10 Boeing 787-8 aircraft and two spare engines as part of its strategy to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Simaero to Open Pilot Training Center in India
France-based aviation company Simaero will open a $100M training center in New Delhi in 2025, aiming to train 6,000 pilots annually by 2027. The facility will feature simulators for the A320neo, ATR 72-600, and Boeing 737.
Boeing A220 Proves Vital in U.S. Aviation
Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and Breeze Airways will operate over 16,000 flights using the Airbus A220 in December. The aircraft’s efficiency and passenger comfort make it a key asset in the U.S. market.
Recruitment Opportunities
Cargolux
Hiring First Officers for Boeing 747-8F & 747-400F. Based in Luxembourg.
Virgin Atlantic
Recruiting experienced pilots at London Heathrow.
Jet2.com
Hosting a pilot roadshow in Glasgow on December 5, 2024. Openings for Airbus and Boeing pilots.
VistaJet
Seeking First Officers for Challenger and Global series aircraft.
AirX Charter
Offering a Pilot Apprentice Scheme leading to a type rating and First Officer position.
