News Roundup: Week Ending December 20th 2024
Air Tanzania banned from EU airspace
The European Union (EU) has blacklisted Air Tanzania from operating in EU airspace due to inadequate safety practices. Tanzania’s national carrier had been seeking permission to operate in Europe but was denied after the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) identified serious safety concerns. Air Tanzania was subsequently added to the EU Air Safety List, a registry of over 100 airlines banned from EU airspace due to insufficient oversight by their aviation regulators. Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport, stated that Air Tanzania must take “swift and decisive action” to address the issues.
United Airlines takes delivery of new Boeing 737 MAX 9
United Airlines has received a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 from Aircastle, marking the first of six scheduled deliveries through 2025. United already operates over 180 MAX aircraft and has orders for 20 MAX 8s, 167 MAX 10s, and additional MAX 9s, further solidifying its position as one of the largest operators of the MAX series in the U.S.
Alaska Airlines eyes 7 new long-haul routes from Seattle
Alaska Airlines is considering seven new long-haul international routes from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) as part of its plan to become a major global gateway. Destinations under consideration include Bangkok, Delhi, Ho Chi Minh City, London, Manila, Paris, and Rome. By 2030, the airline aims to generate $1.5 billion in revenue through its expanded international network, supported by additional routes to Tokyo and Seoul.
Avelo Airlines adds 6 Boeing 737s to fleet
Avelo Airlines has expanded its fleet by acquiring six used Boeing 737 aircraft, previously operated by Southwest Airlines. With this addition, Avelo now has 20 aircraft, including 737-700s and 737-800s. The airline continues to grow its footprint, adding routes to Cancún and Montego Bay while expanding to over 50 destinations.
Ryanair landings explained: Why they feel firmer
Ryanair’s landings are often perceived as “hard” due to the airline’s operational strategy. With a focus on 25-minute turnarounds, firmer landings allow faster runway clearance. Ryanair employs younger pilots, and firm landings are often necessary on wet or short runways for enhanced traction. However, Boeing’s 737 aircraft are designed to handle landings with vertical forces up to 2.6G, making the process safe and intentional for operational efficiency.
Turkish Airlines unveils luxury lounge at JFK Terminal 1
Turkish Airlines has opened a 4,600-square-foot lounge at JFK Airport’s Terminal 1, offering space for 140 guests. The lounge features Turkish-inspired design, prayer rooms, and halal and kosher meal options. This addition highlights Turkish Airlines’ commitment to enhancing its premium travel experience for business class passengers and frequent flyers.
Qatar Airways may cancel Boeing 737 MAX 10 order
Qatar Airways is reportedly reconsidering its order for Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft due to delays in development. With the MAX 10’s entry into service now pushed to late 2025, Qatar Airways may instead shift its focus to the smaller MAX 8, which it already operates through partners like RwandAir and Virgin Australia. The airline is known for adjusting its fleet strategy, as evidenced by its previous cancellation of Airbus A321neo and A350 orders, which were later reinstated.
Airbus A220 sees soaring demand from major airlines
The Airbus A220 is gaining traction globally as airlines like Delta, Lufthansa, and airBaltic increase their orders. Delta has expanded its A220 order to 131 aircraft, while Lufthansa has ordered 40 A220-300s for its City Airlines subsidiary. airBaltic aims to operate 100 A220s by 2030. The A220’s efficiency, range, and passenger comfort are driving demand, making it one of the most sought-after jets for short- and long-haul routes.
KLM flight diverts due to stench from 100 pigs on board
KLM Flight 685, en route from Amsterdam to Mexico City, was diverted to Bermuda due to an “obnoxious smell” in the cabin. The cause? Approximately 100 pigs being transported in the cargo hold. Operating with 269 passengers aboard, the Boeing 787-9 was forced to land at Bermuda’s LF Wade International Airport for a fresh air break before resuming its journey.
HK Express launches first direct flights to Mount Fuji Shizuoka
HK Express has inaugurated its first direct flight from Hong Kong to Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport, marking its 10th destination in Japan. Operated by an Airbus A320neo, the flight strengthens HK Express’s position as the Hong Kong airline with the most Japanese routes. The carrier plans to add service to Sendai next month.
FAA to simplify pilot medical deferral process
The FAA is set to streamline its Airman Medical Certificate process, offering faster reconsideration for pilots with incomplete medical paperwork. Under the new system, pilots will receive a prompt initial denial with specific guidance for reapplying, reducing the backlog of deferred medical applications.
TAP Air Portugal to launch direct Lisbon-Los Angeles route
TAP Air Portugal will begin direct flights from Lisbon to Los Angeles on May 16, 2025, and from Porto to Boston on May 14, 2025. These routes, operated by Airbus A330-900 and A321LR aircraft, will expand TAP’s U.S. presence. Additionally, a weekly stopover in Terceira on the San Francisco route begins on June 3, 2025.
Frontier Airlines suspends 40+ routes across the U.S.
Frontier Airlines has announced the suspension of more than 40 routes, impacting major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and Philadelphia. The cuts aim to optimize route profitability, but Frontier has simultaneously announced 16 new routes set to begin in spring 2025.
Air New Zealand eyes return to London service
Air New Zealand has applied for daily slots at London Gatwick (LGW) with potential service from July 2025. This comes after the airline previously sold its Heathrow slots in 2020. If approved, this route would mark the return of Air New Zealand’s flights to London.
China Airlines confirms $11.9bn order for Boeing and Airbus jets
China Airlines has placed an $11.9 billion order for 10 Boeing 777-9s, 4 Boeing 777-8F freighters, and 10 Airbus A350-1000s. The airline plans to modernize its long-haul and cargo fleets with these advanced aircraft.
Pegasus Airlines orders up to 200 Boeing 737-10 aircraft
Pegasus Airlines has signed a deal with Boeing for up to 200 Boeing 737-10 aircraft, with 100 firm orders and options for 100 more. This order represents Boeing’s largest MAX 10 sale in 2024.
Two pilots die in Argentina Challenger 300 crash
A Bombardier Challenger 300 crashed near San Fernando International Airport, Argentina, killing both the pilot and co-pilot. The aircraft veered off the runway and struck a residential building after an apparent failed landing attempt. Investigations into the cause are ongoing.
Emirates Flight Training Academy celebrates 85 cadet graduates
The Emirates Flight Training Academy has graduated 85 new cadets, who are now ready to pursue careers in aviation. The academy is one of the world’s most advanced, offering comprehensive training for pilots worldwide.
Norse Atlantic Airways to move to JFK Terminal 6 in 2026
Norse Atlantic Airways will relocate to JFK Airport’s Terminal 6 in 2026, joining airlines like JetBlue, Lufthansa, and Cathay Pacific. Norse Atlantic, which currently operates from Terminal 7, plans to enhance passenger experience with upgraded amenities at T6.
News Roundup: Week Ending December 20th 2024
Recruitment:
AirX Charter
AirX Charter is hiring pilots with an ATPL (CPL MEIR) for its Pilot Apprentice scheme. Candidates will work in sales before completing a type rating and becoming a First Officer.
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic is hiring type-rated First Officers for its Airbus A320, A330, or A350 fleets based at London Heathrow.
Jet2.com
Jet2.com is recruiting for its Future Second Officer program (formerly known as the Pilot Apprentice scheme). Successful applicants will complete a 20-week program before undergoing a funded type rating on the airline’s fleet.
British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy
British Airways will reopen the Speedbird Pilot Academy in February 2025, funding pilot training at Skyborne and FTEJerez for up to 200 candidates. A series of webinars in January 2025 will help applicants prepare for the selection process.
Titan Airways
Titan Airways is hiring across multiple departments. If you’re seeking a dynamic career where “no two days are ever the same,” check out the opportunities on their careers page.
