App Online Store Sign up
Basket
Airline Prep licensing Study Material Bookings Contact
Basket

Aviation News Roundup 21st Feb 2025

Aviation News Roundup 21st Feb 2025 – This Week’s Biggest Stories

Delta Air Lines Unveils Special 100-Year Anniversary Livery on A350

Delta Air Lines’ latest Airbus A350 has emerged from Toulouse with a special 100-year anniversary livery. The aircraft, registered N527DN, underwent its first engine run and taxi tests, marking a significant milestone before its delivery. The livery, featuring a sleek blue and silver design, commemorates the airline’s rich history as it celebrates a century of operations.

Airbus Reports Strong Full-Year 2024 Financial Results

Airbus has announced its consolidated financial results for the full year ending December 31, 2024. The aerospace giant delivered 766 commercial aircraft and reported revenues of €69.2 billion, with an EBIT adjusted at €5.4 billion. Free cash flow before customer financing stood at €4.5 billion, and a dividend proposal of €2.00 per share, plus a special dividend of €1.00 per share, has been issued. Looking ahead, Airbus has issued new guidance for 2025, solidifying its position as a market leader.

airBaltic Becomes First European Airline to Offer Free Starlink Internet

Latvian carrier airBaltic has officially introduced SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet across its Airbus A220-300 fleet, making it the first European airline to do so. The service, certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), provides passengers with free, high-speed, low-latency internet access from boarding to landing. To celebrate, airBaltic hosted a special flight at Riga Airport, showcasing the system’s capabilities. The airline plans to complete Starlink installations on all A220s by the end of 2025.

Boeing Explores Return to the Russian Market

Boeing is reportedly in discussions to resume aircraft sales and spare part supplies to Russia in exchange for aerospace-grade titanium. Russia produces 60% of the world’s aerospace-grade titanium, which is crucial for aircraft manufacturing. If approved, this deal could mark Boeing’s return to the Russian market after Western aviation sanctions were imposed in 2022.

Bombardier CRJ-900 Barrel Rolls on Landing – All Survive

A Bombardier CRJ-900LR operated by Endeavor Air, flying for Delta Connection, crashed on landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport on February 17. The aircraft barrel-rolled down the runway, losing its wings, tail, and landing gear in the process. Miraculously, despite the dramatic crash sequence, the fuselage remained intact, and only 15 injuries were reported. The accident underscores the exceptional build quality of the CRJ airframe and the critical role of cabin crew in ensuring a safe evacuation. Investigations are currently underway.

Lufthansa Confirmed as Launch Customer for Boeing 777-9

Boeing has officially confirmed Lufthansa as the launch customer for the highly anticipated 777-9. The German carrier will be the first to receive the new aircraft in 2027, with Boeing targeting 2026 for certification. Lufthansa’s decision reaffirms its confidence in Boeing’s next-generation twinjet, which is set to offer increased efficiency and range for long-haul operations.

Air Greenland to Lease A320neo for 2027 Operations

Air Greenland has signed an agreement with Carlyle Aviation Partners to lease an Airbus A320neo for its summer 2027 schedule. The aircraft will support operations on the Ilulissat–Copenhagen route and supplement the airline’s A330neo fleet. The A320neo is expected to be delivered in December 2026 before undergoing modifications for Greenlandic conditions.

Emirates Introduces New A350-900 Cabin Configuration

Emirates has announced a new three-class cabin configuration for its upcoming Airbus A350-900 fleet, placing a greater emphasis on premium economy seating. The first aircraft with this updated layout is set to enter service in Q4 2025. The move reflects Emirates’ strategy to enhance passenger comfort and compete in the evolving long-haul market.

Major Pilot and Cabin Crew Recruitment Updates

Several airlines have announced hiring campaigns this week:

Scholarship Opportunities for Aspiring Pilots

The Air League has opened applications for its 2025 Scholarship Programme, offering flight training courses, gliding bursaries, and full PPL scholarships. With over 100 scholarships available, aspiring pilots are encouraged to apply. A webinar on the selection process will be hosted by the Air League’s Scholarship Programme Manager on February 19.

This concludes this week’s Aviation News Roundup 21st Feb 2025.  Stay tuned for more updates next week!

About Aviation Insider’s Products and Services:

Aviation Insider is your go-to platform for expert-led pilot interview preparation, simulator assessment training, and airline selection support. Whether you’re a seasoned aviator or aspiring pilot, our tailored simulator training sessions, e-learning courses, and technical assessments ensure you’re fully prepared for airline recruitment processes. With an extensive library of resources covering pilot aptitude tests, competency-based interviews, and simulator preparation, Aviation Insider helps you excel in your airline assessments and secure your dream job. Visit Aviation Insider today to access industry-leading preparation tools and take your aviation career to new heights. Our platform offers:

Aviation Insider provides expert resources to help pilots succeed in airline applications. From interview prep guides and simulator assessment training to online courses and practice aptitude tests, we cover every stage of the recruitment process.

Whether you’re a cadet, first officer, or captain, our tailored content gives you the edge in today’s competitive job market. Click the link to access the tools you need to land your dream airline job.

Explore our services at Aviation Insider.

Our Partners