Simple Flying - Aviation News

Akasa Air Replacing Spacious Seats In Planes For A Standard Configuration

Gaurav Joshi — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 04:08:59 GMT

Indian carrier Akasa Air has always maintained that it is a budget airline meant to connect smaller cities and towns in India with affordable fares. But some of its planes also have several spacious seats that don’t quite align with a low-cost business model. While the airline was stuck with this configuration on some aircraft due to supply-chain issues, it has not started to replace those seats for a standard configuration.

FAA Reaches 2023 Hiring Goal For Air Traffic Controllers

Justin Foster — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 03:01:25 GMT

The Federal Aviation Association (FAA) announced on August 24 that it has reached its hiring goals for this year. The association had set out to hire 1,500 new air traffic controllers before 2023 was over and completed this goal before September arrived.

Hurricane Idalia Threat Grounds Aircraft And Closes Airports

Channing Reid — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 02:00:21 GMT

Nearly 600 flights were canceled, and another 1,600 were delayed on Tuesday as the looming threat from Hurricane Idalia intensifies off the west coast of Florida. At least four airports have closed to prepare for the storm, while airlines have issued travel advisory waivers to affected passengers.

Industry Warns Against Hourly Reductions At Mexico City Airport

Daniel Martínez Garbuno — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 22:01:26 GMT

Mexico’s authorities are looking at the possibility of further reducing the number of hourly operations at Mexico City International Airport (MEX), to ease the saturation levels. The National Chamber of Air Transport (Canaero), worried about the possibility, released a statement on Monday warning against this measure, saying it could lead to hundreds of flight cancelations.

The Ten Shortest LAX Routes This Month

Lukas Souza — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 21:00:25 GMT

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a crucial airport in California and the United States. One of the busiest in the world and located in the nation's second-most populated city, LAX connects passengers to destinations near and far. Several American carriers have hubs and bases at LAX, and Southwest Airlines has a massive inter-California network.

Full House: Iraqi Airways Has Taken Its Last A220 From Airbus

Steven Walker — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 20:00:25 GMT

Iraqi Airways has taken delivery of its fifth Airbus A220, registered as YI-ARH. With this latest arrival, the Iraqi flag carrier's order for five A220-300s has been fulfilled, and its ambitious fleet modernization plans are underway.

Aeromexico Celebrates Ten Years Of Boeing 787 Operations

Daniel Martínez Garbuno — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 19:00:25 GMT

Mexican full-service carrier Aeromexico is celebrating a decade since receiving its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This widebody aircraft has since become the stronghold of the company’s long-haul operations in Europe, Asia, and South America.

United Airlines Makes Significant Alterations To China Flights

Lukas Souza — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 17:30:26 GMT

United Airlines has made a significant number of changes to its China route network. In October, the airline was set to relaunch several routes to the Asian country, but that is no longer the case. The only Chinese route that remains on United’s schedule in October is from San Francisco to Shanghai.

Travelling Internationally With Alaska Airlines Just Got Easier For US & Canada Passport Holders

Charlotte Seet — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 17:00:27 GMT

Enhancing the passenger experience seems to be the ongoing trend for airlines these days, with more carriers embracing the use of advanced technological programs to help passengers save time. Alaska Airlines is the latest to hop on this bandwagon with a new biometric strategy to allow passengers to skip more airport queues through passport verification.

Delta Air Lines Announces Honolulu-Tokyo Haneda Route With Boeing 767-300ER

Lukas Souza — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 15:31:26 GMT

Delta Air Lines has just become the latest American carrier to announce an expansion of its services to Asia. Starting this October, the airline will launch nonstop service from Honolulu to Tokyo Haneda.

United Airlines Expands Sesame Street Partnership To Help Children Who Are In Need

Luke Bodell — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 12:00:25 GMT

United Airlines has extended its partnership with Sesame Workshop to support children in need worldwide. The carrier will spotlight the 'Welcome Sesame' initiative in September and match the first million MileagePlus miles raised this year.

Reports Suggest Incorrect Flight Plan Knocked Out UK ATC

Jake Hardiman — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 10:00:23 GMT

Yesterday, commercial aviation in the United Kingdom was rocked by a network-wide air traffic control fault that resulted in extensive disruption. The timing was especially unfortunate, with many passengers returning from the late-summer bank holiday, making it one of the year's busiest days. The cause of the chaos remains unknown, but reports have begun to emerge regarding a particular theory.

Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 Has Experimental Certification: What’s Next?

Joe Kunzler — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 09:30:25 GMT

Boom Supersonic announced on August 24 that the aircraft manufacturer now has a prototype in XB-1 and test pilots have received multiple governmental certifications to conduct test flights with XB-1. The purpose of XB-1 is to be a supersonic technology testbed for Boom Supersonic to build future supersonic passenger jets.

AAPA Director General Says Asia-Pacific Momentum Won't Slacken

Michael Doran — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 09:10:25 GMT

At the start of this year, most forecasts predicted that the full recovery of commercial aviation in Asia-Pacific would not come until the end of 2024. However, with travel restrictions now a thing of the past and the consistently high demand for travel driving growth, it seems that a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels will arrive much nearer the start of next year than the end.

Man With Disability Lands Dream Job At Christchurch Airport

Channing Reid — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 07:00:26 GMT

A New Zealand man is loving his job that combines his two passions. Coso Stretch has always had a passion for planes and has wanted to work around them, but his disability has prevented him from landing a job at an airport until now.

Pakistan International Airlines Invites Employee Union To Wage Talks

Luke Bodell — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 06:30:51 GMT

Following protests by Pakistan International Airlines employees, the airline has invited the union for talks. PIA staff have protested against the airline's privatization plan and want pay rises.

Air India To Deploy More Cabin Crew On Some Narrowbody Routes

Gaurav Joshi — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 06:06:22 GMT

Air India is one of only two major airlines in India that operates full-service flights both domestically and internationally. And while it deploys its bigger Dreamliners and Boeing 777s to long-haul routes, a bulk of its flights within India and to medium-haul international destinations are carried out by the smaller A320 family aircraft. And many of these services are about to get additional cabin crew.

Have The USA’s Fake Service Animal Rules Gone Too Far?

Channing Reid — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 05:30:24 GMT

In 2021, the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) implemented new regulations that cracked down on the rise in airline passengers traveling with untrained emotional support or service animals. Since the new rules took effect, several people with disabilities have reportedly encountered more trouble traveling with their service animals.

Rex Group Member National Jet Express Adds 9th Dash 8-400NG

Michael Doran — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 05:01:24 GMT

While its domestic 737s and regional Saab 340s are the most visible parts of the Rex Group, much more is happening within the aviation group than just scheduled passenger flights. The Rex Group is also a 50% shareholder of National Jet Express, which specializes in a range of services for the resources industry in remote parts of Australia and Papua New Guinea.

Doctors On Vistara Flight Save A 2-Year-Old Child

Gaurav Joshi — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 04:03:35 GMT

A medical emergency forced a Vistara flight to divert to Nagpur when a child onboard became critically ill. Thankfully, a group of doctors on the aircraft immediately treated the child, who was then handed over to a pediatrician upon landing.

What To Do If You've Been Affected By The UK ATC Failure

Justin Foster — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 03:00:24 GMT

Thousands of travelers across the United Kingdom have been struck with cancelations or delays to their flights. Over 500 flights that were arriving at or departing from British airports have been affected. The National Air Traffic Service (NATS) released a statement saying that a technical issue with the UK's air traffic control system has greatly restricted flights in and out of the country.

Tampa Airport Will Close At Midnight Ahead Of Tropical Storm Idalia

Aaron Bailey — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 02:00:24 GMT

Along the Florida Gulf Coast, residents and Tampa International are battening down the hatches in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia, with the airport noting it will remain closed from Tuesday to assess damages once the storm passes. The closure has allowed the airport and its stakeholders to secure jetbridges and ground equipment and remove any remaining aircraft in preparation for Idalia's expected landfall, due early on Wednesday.

AirAsia X Returns More Airbus A330s And Posts 2Q Profit

Michael Doran — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 01:00:25 GMT

Malaysia's low-cost widebody specialist AirAsia X Berhad is surging back to full health with a second-quarter net profit of RM5.5 million ($1.16m) compared to a net loss of RM652.2 million ($137m) in the same period last year. With more of its widebody Airbus A330s returning to service, AirAsia X generated revenue of RM512.9 million ($108m), more than four times its revenue in Q2 2022.

French Bee, Zipair, And 2 More Airlines Added To TSA PreCheck

Aaron Bailey — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 00:00:24 GMT

Four new airlines will join the list of over 90 TSA PreCheck domestic and international carriers, announcing that Cayman Airways, French bee, Titan Airways, and Zip Air will enter the expedited screening program. The program enables low-risk travelers to avail of quick and efficient screening at more than 200 US airports nationwide. These passengers can keep their belts, jackets, and shoes and are not required to remove their laptops from their bags for screening.

ITA Airways Takes Delivery Of Its 1st Blue Airbus A220

Justin Foster — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 22:00:26 GMT

The flag carrier of Italy, ITA Airways, recently took delivery of its first Airbus A220 in its newly released all-blue livery. The aircraft entered the ITA Airways fleet on August 28. A delivery ceremony took place in Mirabel, Canada, where Airbus has the A220 program headquartered before the aircraft began its ferry flight to Rome Fiumicino. The aircraft will complete all of its preparatory tests before entering service.

American Airlines Fined $4.1 Million For Unlawful Tarmac Delays

Steven Walker — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 19:01:25 GMT

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued an unprecedented fine of $4.1 million to American Airlines for violating the rule that prohibits tarmac delays of over three hours on domestic flights without passengers being given the opportunity to deplane.

Saudi Lessor AviLease Buys 167 Standard Chartered Aircraft For $3.6 Billion

Charlotte Seet — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 17:00:25 GMT

Since being established last summer, the relatively new and Saudi Public Investment Fund-backed AviLease has grown extensively in the aircraft leasing sector. For its latest development, the rising global aircraft lessor has today entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the aircraft leasing business of Standard Chartered Bank, which includes Dublin-based Pembroke Group.

Kenyan Transport Minister Fires Nairobi Airport Boss After Power Cut Delays Passengers

Luke Bodell — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:08:22 GMT

Kenya's Transport Minister has fired the head of the country's airport authority following a prolonged power cut at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). The blackout lasted around two hours, plunging the airport's main terminal into darkness.

UK Passengers Face Delays After Network-Wide Air Traffic Control Fault

Sumit Singh — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:05:25 GMT

Passengers flying to and from the United Kingdom face delays today after reports of a network-wide failure of the country's air traffic control systems. This news comes as hundreds of thousands of passengers fly home following the bank holiday weekend.

Ethiopia's Combined Aircraft Fleet Is Valued At $5.25 Billion

Tatenda Karuwa — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:00:25 GMT

Africa is the world's second-largest continent by land mass and population and a region with immense aviation potential waiting to be unlocked. Its various regions are associated with their own characteristics and players, but overall, Ethiopia is the market leader in aircraft fleet value, standing at $5.25 billion. An analysis of the African air transport market by AviationValues shows the continent's largest markets and the distribution of the passenger aircraft fleet in 2023.

Beirut Airport ATC Threatens To Stop Night Operations Amid Staff Shortages

Joe Kunzler — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 10:30:27 GMT

Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut has seen many days and nights of strain, but the newest form of strain is inadequate staffing for its air control tower. Without enough staffing and air controllers working long hours as a result, the conditions for air traffic controllers to safely manage air traffic around an international airport is in decline.

China Is Ditching COVID Testing For Inbound International Passengers

Jake Hardiman — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 10:00:26 GMT

Later this week, China will ease its travel restrictions that presently impact inbound international passengers. The upcoming policy change will mean that those entering the country from abroad will no longer be obliged to provide a negative result from a coronavirus test in order to pass through the nation's border.

Auckland Airport Delivers Successful Marriage Proposal

Michael Doran — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:00:25 GMT

It seems that airports and airplanes are becoming THE place for making proposals, and surprisingly, most of them seem to get that all-important and very public Yes for an answer. The high-risk strategy has scored another bullseye recently, this time in the arrivals hall of Auckland Aiport, the international gateway to New Zealand.

Shenzhen Airlines Begins Airbus A330 Flights To Barcelona

Channing Reid — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 07:00:27 GMT

China's Shenzhen Airlines launched direct flights between Shenzhen and Barcelona on Monday. The route links China's tech hub with the northeast coast of Spain, known for its art and architecture. The flight is the second European route that the carrier operates. It comes as both Shenzhen and Barcelona are reportedly celebrating the second anniversary of establishing friendly ties.

Vistara To Connect Delhi With The Maldives With Non-Stop Flight

Gaurav Joshi — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 06:00:24 GMT

Even as Vistara prepares for its eventual merger with Air India, the airline continues to offer new flights until the deal is finalized. The latest announcement is for its non-stop service between Delhi and Malé in the Maldives. The carrier already operates a Mumbai-Malé flight and will be the only airline flying this route from Delhi.

Passenger Claims Delta Air Lines Lost Her Dog At Atlanta Airport

Channing Reid — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:31:25 GMT

Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines is accused of losing a woman’s dog amid a flight from the Dominican Republic to the US. Paula Rodriguez embarked on a long journey from Santo Domingo to San Francisco but noticed her dog was not with her during a layover in Atlanta.

Virgin Australia Unveils Aussie First Bag Tracking Tool

Michael Doran — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:24 GMT

From today, passengers traveling on around 70% of Virgin Australia flights will be able to track where their checked bags are via the airline's app. Virgin Australia describes the innovation as Australia's "first-ever airline baggage tracking tool," and its launch follows a successful pilot of the program in May this year.

Lessor Claims That Parts Are Missing From Go First Planes

Gaurav Joshi — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 04:00:15 GMT

In another development that could further sour the relationship between Go First and its lessors, important parts are reportedly missing from at least two of its aircraft. One of Go First’s lessors has raised concerns regarding this and wants to take back the planes to avoid further losses.

Flagship Route: How Malaysia Airlines’ Airbus A350s Meet Demand Between London & Kuala Lumpur

Sumit Singh — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 03:15:26 GMT

Malaysia Airlines currently has six Airbus A350-900s in its fleet, which were all delivered between November 2017 and July 2018. With all of these units not even six years old yet, there are plenty of prospects to be had with the type, especially on Malaysia Airlines' flagship route to London.

British Airways Serves Up New Martini Experience At Heathrow's Concorde Room

Justin Foster — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 03:00:27 GMT

The flag carrier of the United Kingdom, British Airways, announced major upgrades to its airport lounge at London Heathrow International Airport (LHR). The new upgrades include an exclusive martini mixer at its exclusive Concorde Room in Terminal 5.

Fiji Airways A350 Business Class Sets A High Bar

Michael Doran — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:46:27 GMT

Earlier this month Fiji Airways greeted the arrival of its third Airbus A350 XWB, with the fourth soon to arrive in Nadi. The new aircraft is named the Island of Beqa and follows in the footsteps of the initial two A350s that joined the carrier in 2019.

Jet2 Airbus A321neo Diverts to Antalya After Engine Flames Spotted

Joshua Kupietzky — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:31:26 GMT

On August 25th, a Jet2 A321-200N en route from Bodrum to Manchester diverted to Antalya because of a problem with one of the engines. The pilots landed the aircraft safely at Antalya International Airport (AYT).

Indonesia Plans Merger Of Garuda Indonesia, Citilink & Pelita Air

Aaron Bailey — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:00:27 GMT

The Indonesian Government has released a proposal to merge three state-owned carriers to cut costs and streamline operations, Indonesia’s Minister for State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Erick Thohir announced over the weekend.

FAA Seeks To Close Regulatory Charter Loophole

Dr. Omar Memon — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 22:01:27 GMT

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) intends to terminate the regulatory charter loophole that allows non-ATP commercial pilots to fly passenger flights. As described in the General Operating and Flight Rules (14 CFR Part 380), the rule allows Part 135 charter flights to conduct scheduled flights and take advance bookings if the type of aircraft used has no more than 30 passenger seats. The rule is sometimes misused by airlines that serve smaller markets having contracts with charter companies to offer scheduled services.

Pakistan International Airlines To Take Legal Action Against Protesting Staff

Trevin Christian Casinader — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 21:29:56 GMT

The administration of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has doubled down against its employees, who are currently in the midst of a strike. The airline has completed legal consultations to move forward and take action against its employees.

Niche Market: The Difference Between Riyadh Air & Its Neighbors

Abid Habib — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 19:00:27 GMT

Saudi Arabia's newest carrier, Riyadh Air, has outlined a rather interesting plan for how the airline will operate once it commences commercial flights in 2025. However, the plan appears to be deviating from the formula of success that was created by fellow Middle Eastern giants Emirates and Qatar Airways.

Comparing Summer Capacity Trends Between IAG, Lufthansa & Air France/KLM

Charlotte Seet — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 18:15:27 GMT

At a quick glance, Europe's three most prominent airline groups have been enjoying a significantly strong summer this year with bolstered capacities across their route networks compared to last summer. But despite these increased efforts, these airlines are still lagging a fair bit compared to pre-pandemic numbers - highlighting how everyone still has some distance to cover before reaching previous levels of flying.

Why Amsterdam Schiphol Airport's Drive For Quality Improvement Could Raise Ticket Prices

Jamie Moore — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 17:00:28 GMT

Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, the Netherlands’ largest and main airport, could increase its fees implemented on airlines due to the need for renovation at the airport. This increase in fees is likely to result in an increase in ticket prices for passengers.

United Airlines Agrees $30 Million Settlement With Quadriplegic Passenger's Family

Vyte Klisauskaite — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 15:00:28 GMT

United Airlines has reportedly agreed to pay a $30 million settlement to the family of a quadriplegic passenger who fell into a coma following an incident during the deplaning process.

Boeing 737 MAX Program Faces New Supplier Defect Woes

Vyte Klisauskaite — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 12:00:28 GMT

Boeing has identified a new manufacturing issue involving its supplier, Spirit AeroSystems, which has led to improperly drilled holes on the aft pressure bulkhead of certain models of the 737 MAX and 737 NG military derivative, the P-8 Poseidon, fuselage.

Sunday Reads: Our Most Notable Stories This Week

Jake Hardiman — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:29:29 GMT

Hello and welcome to Simple Flying's final 'Sunday Reads' weekly digest for the month of August 2023. Let's end the month in style by taking a few minutes to look back at some of our most notable stories from the last seven days.

LATAM Boeing 787 Diverts Due To Suspected Fuel Leak

Chris Loh — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:00:28 GMT

On August 23rd, a Boeing 787 operated by LATAM had to divert and return to its origin airport after a fuel leak was suspected by the crew. The aircraft was flying from Santiago, Chile, to Auckland, New Zealand, when the incident occurred.

Biman Bangladesh Restarts Dhaka To Tokyo Narita Flights After 17 Years

Abid Habib — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 10:00:28 GMT

After a hiatus of over 17 years, the flag carrier of Bangladesh, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, is set to connect Dhaka (the country's capital) to Tokyo Narita with a direct service. The service will commence next month and will contribute to increased passenger connectivity.

Aviation Authority Suspends Air Moldova’s Air Operator Certificate

Vyte Klisauskaite — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 09:00:28 GMT

The Civil Aviation Authority (AAC) of Moldova has declared the suspension of Air Moldova's Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) due to the absence of aircraft with valid airworthiness certificates.

Auckland Airport Puts Airlines Offside As Profit Plummets And Charges Rise

Michael Doran — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 08:15:27 GMT

It is strange days indeed at New Zealand's gateway Auckland Airport (AKL). This week, the airport announced that compared to last financial year passenger numbers rose by 183%, revenue was up by 108%, reported profit after tax was down by 77%, and it would ignore its major airline customers and plow ahead with a multi-billion dollar terminal upgrade paid for by increased charges.

Love Is In The Air: TUI Passengers Get Engaged After Meeting During Delay At Bournemouth Airport

Channing Reid — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 07:00:29 GMT

Two passengers on separate vacations flying on TUI Airways are engaged after meeting during a delay in England nearly four years ago. The couple, who says the moment they met was "love at first sight," are reportedly planning to get married next month.

ITA Airways Takes Delivery Of 5th Airbus A220-300

Chris Loh — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 06:01:26 GMT

On August 26th, a brand new Airbus A220-300 touched down at Rome Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport and became ITA Airways' 5th A220 and 75th aircraft overall. The jet departed Airbus Canada's assembly facilities in Montreal on August 25th and flew into the evening with a midnight stopover at London's Stansted Airport.

Virgin Australia Velocity Launches Luxury Escapes And Lures Qantas Gold FFs

Michael Doran — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 05:00:27 GMT

Australia has a population approaching 27 million, and between them, Qantas Loyalty and Virgin Velocity have 26.7 million members of their frequent flyer programs. Both airlines want more members, so it seems the best way to get them is to entice each other's members to jump ship; at least that's what Virgin Australia's Velocity Frequent Flyer program has in mind.

North Korea's Air Koryo Resumes Flights To Russia's Vladivostok After 3 Years

Channing Reid — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 04:00:29 GMT

Air Koryo, North Korea’s state-owned flag carrier, returned to Vladivostok, a far eastern city in Russia, on Friday after a hiatus of more than three years due to COVID-19 restrictions. The flight reportedly represents the resumption of commercial flights between the two countries.

Russia Pulls Out Of The CR929 Widebody Program

Su Wu — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 03:00:27 GMT

The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has officially shifted its involvement in the CRAIC CR929 program from being a joint-venture partner to assuming the role of a key supplier.

Gol Boeing 737 MAX Rejects Takeoff In Sao Paulo Amid Engine Problem

Aaron Bailey — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 02:00:27 GMT

Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes flight G3 1312 had planned to operate an uneventual service from São Paulo–Congonhas Airport to Belo Horizonte on August 22nd; as the aircraft was accelerating down Congohas's runway 35L for take-off, the crew noted an engine stall, calling for an aborted takeoff.

Fly Angola Suspends Domestic Flights Following Economic Constraints

Henry Wood — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 01:20:29 GMT

Fly Angola has found itself treading in deep water, with flights suspended seemingly indefinitely from August 18th.

Cathay Pacific Launches Cabin Crew Recruiting In Mainland China

Michael Doran — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 01:00:29 GMT

While running an airline anywhere is a tricky business, there are some parts of the world where regional cultural, political and economic pressures add another whole layer of complexity for management to deal with. Hong Kong's status as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China throws up plenty of curve balls for Cathay Pacific Airways as it straddles the one country-two systems tightrope.

Revealed: Canada's 5 Most Relaxing Airports

Giacomo Amati — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 00:45:26 GMT

Traveling by plane can sometimes get on your nerves. Airports and airplanes are full of people of all different kinds and with the most diverse cultural backgrounds. Families with young children and older people, young teenagers on their first solo trip, those traveling for business, and tourists waiting for their guide to tell them where to go. Your patience will be put through its paces, especially during peak times like summer or winter holidays.

Canada's Air Inuit Receives Boeing 737-800 Ahead Of Combi Freighter Conversion

Alexander Mitchell — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 00:15:26 GMT

On 24 August 2023, Canadian carrier Air Inuit received the first two of its Boeing 737-800s which will soon be converted into combi freighters. These aircraft will replace the carrier's trademark Boeing 737-200 combis, the retirement of which was announced this past June. The aircraft in question are over 40 years old and have served thousands of passengers throughout their lifespans.

Commercial Aviation In Wyoming: Everything You Need To Know

Alexander Mitchell — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 23:00:28 GMT

With its sparse population and massive size, Wyoming, America's least populous state, has a fascinating aviation landscape. With nine airports seeing scheduled commercial service, there are far more ways to fly in and out of the Cowboy State than you might expect.

Top 5: The World’s Longest Boeing 787-10 Routes This September

James Pearson — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 21:00:27 GMT

All Nippon, British Airways, Etihad, EVA Air, KLM, Saudia, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines use the 787-10, to be joined by Qantas in the future. These are the five longest routes in September.

Why Seattle Asked EVA Air To Change From A Boeing 777 To A 787 For Night Flights

Joe Kunzler — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 19:30:27 GMT

In a second half of reporting, Simple Flying explores how Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), and its operator, the Port of Seattle, are working with airlines to be a quieter neighbor. The Port works with airlines to encourage airlines to use quieter aircraft flying in and out of SEA, among other things.

43 US Airports Have Non-Stop Europe Routes Next Month

James Pearson — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 19:01:28 GMT

Some 43 US airports have non-stop scheduled passenger flights to Europe in September. While that is two fewer than in September 2019, weekly departing flights are 3.5% higher than they were.

Regulator Finds Lapses In Air India's Internal Safety Audits Following Inspection

Charlotte Seet — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 18:00:27 GMT

Air India recently got hit with quite a big blow after the flag carrier failed an internal safety audit upon further verification by a two-member surveillance team from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). During the routine exercise, the aviation regulator determined significant lapses and is currently investigating this matter with the airline.

China Eastern To Begin Shanghai To Istanbul Flights Next Month

Dr. Omar Memon — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 17:00:27 GMT

China Eastern Airlines has announced a direct flight from its base in Shanghai to Istanbul starting September 28. The airline will connect Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Istanbul Airport (IST) with non-stop flights three times a week. The new flight will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from Shanghai.

Delta Air Lines May Change Sky Club Entry Policies Again

Channing Reid — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 16:00:28 GMT

Over the years, Delta Air Lines Sky Clubs have become widely popular, leading to overcrowding in the luxurious airport spaces. As a result, the Atlanta-based US legacy carrier introduced significant changes to the Sky Club access policy last year.

How To Access Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport By Public Transport

Nicole Kylie — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 15:45:26 GMT

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, located just 5 miles (8 km) south of the Sydney central business district, is Australia's busiest airport. Catering to both domestic and international flights, the airport serves as a major gateway for more than 44 million travelers each year.

British Airways & easyJet Passengers Face Bank Holiday Weekend Cancellations Across The UK

Luke Bodell — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 15:00:27 GMT

Thousands of UK passengers have been impacted by late-notice cancelations from British Airways and easyJet ahead of the bank holiday weekend. BA canceled around 50 flights to and from Heathrow, while easyJet scrapped ten Gatwick flights.

Finnair To Improve Nordic Links With New Arctic Express Service

Charlotte Seet — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 14:00:26 GMT

Nordic flight connections will soon be improved as Finnair is preparing to launch a new 'Arctic Express' service that will connect Helsinki with Rovaniemi and Tromsø. These new flights will be the only direct connection between Rovaniemi and Tromsø, allowing passengers to experience the hometown of Santa Claus and the gateway to the Northern Lights.

Pegasus Airlines Launches Climate Tool To Help Passengers Estimate Their Carbon Impact

Vyte Klisauskaite — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 12:00:26 GMT

The Turkish low-cost carrier Pegasus Airlines has partnered with the Norway-based climate tech firm CHOOOSE to provide passengers with the opportunity to understand and offset their travel emissions.

American Airlines Pilot Locates A Nine-Year-Old's Missing Doll In Japan

Trevin Christian Casinader — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 10:32:22 GMT

An American Girl doll that meant the world to its owner found its way back after being stranded halfway across the globe, thanks to her parents' perseverance and the goodwill of a stranger.

British Airways Passengers Will Need To Show ID For Domestic Flights

Vyte Klisauskaite — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 10:01:25 GMT

British Airways will ask passengers aged 16 and above to show photographic identification, such as a passport, a driving license, or a valid EU national identity card, for domestic flights within the United Kingdom starting September 1, 2023.

SWISS Crew Caught Taking Selfies On Wing Of Boeing 777

Abid Habib — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 09:01:24 GMT

SWISS International Air Lines cabin crew has recently become involved in a spot of trouble with the airline for publicly posing for pictures and selfies on top of the wing of a parked Boeing 777 aircraft belonging to the airline while on the ground in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Alaska Airlines Pilots To Receive Raises Next Month

Channing Reid — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 07:18:13 GMT

Pilots at Seattle-based Alaska Airlines will receive an increase in their wages beginning next month. To keep up with pay at other competing airlines, the pilots will see a pay bump of more than 10%.

Qantas To Send Its Airbus A330s To Bali

Channing Reid — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 04:07:17 GMT

Qantas is gearing up to deploy its luxurious Airbus A330 aircraft to Bali in the coming months. It comes as the province of Indonesia is reportedly one of the world's most in-demand travel destinations.

Allegiant Airlines Sees Minimal Growth In Passenger Traffic In July

Aaron Bailey — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 03:01:26 GMT

Nevada-based ultra-low-cost carrier Allegiant Air (G4) has released its latest figures for passenger numbers, and according to the data, there hasn't been a massive improvement from last year.

Air New Zealand Reintroduces Boeing 787s On Auckland-Perth Route

Aaron Bailey — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 02:01:27 GMT

Wamos Air will leave the skies between Auckland and Perth in October, as Air New Zealand announced its intentions to redeploy the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the route.

Boeing Reportedly Ready To Resume Deliveries Of 737 MAX Aircraft To China

Aaron Bailey — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 01:00:26 GMT

After a four-year pause, aircraft manufacturer Boeing is patiently awaiting the opportunity to recommence deliveries of the 737 MAX to mainland China. The Chinese government had grounded its 96 units in 2019 following two fatal crashes.

FAA Issues New Alert To Prevent Ground Crew Injuries

Daniel Martínez Garbuno — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 00:01:26 GMT

On Friday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) to prevent injuries while workers are towing aircraft and guiding them to and from gates. This SAFO was released following two incidents, including one in which a ramp agent was fatally injured at the Montgomery Regional Airport in Alabama last year.

Aeromexico Announces Increase Of Flights To Canada

Daniel Martínez Garbuno — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 22:00:27 GMT

Aeromexico is set to increase its weekly capacity between Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and the Canadian airports Toronto International (YYZ), Montreal International (YUL), and Vancouver International (YVR) the following winter season.

Rome Ciampino: The Story Of Italy's Oldest Airport

Giacomo Amati — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 21:30:26 GMT

Rome is considered one of the most fascinating places in the world, with its unique atmosphere and historic sights that never fail to bring tourists back in time and make them fall in love with ancient history. Among the many records the city holds, there is also one that is of interest to aviation geeks. Indeed, Rome is home to Italy's oldest airport, Ciampino (CIA).

How Delta Air Lines Is Improving Onboard Medical Emergency Response

Molly Russell — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 20:12:01 GMT

After coming under fire in June for giving a passenger an empty oxygen bottle onboard, a flight from Minneapolis-Sant Paul International Airport (MSP) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Delta Air Lines is gearing up to bolster its onboard medical technology to safeguard the continued health and well-being of its customers and crew members.

Tulum International Airport Gets Its First Routes

Daniel Martínez Garbuno — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 19:01:26 GMT

Mexico’s new Tulum International Airport (to be opened on December 1, 2023) has its initial new routes announced. On Thursday, Viva Aerobus and Aeromexico released the first commercial services they will operate once the airport is inaugurated later this year.

Adults Only: Corendon Airlines Launching 16+ Cabin Sections

Charlotte Seet — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 18:00:27 GMT

Corendon Airlines will soon offer an adult-only section on specific flights in November for passengers who genuinely dislike flying with families and children. Known as the new only adult zone, the Turkish-Dutch leisure carrier hopes to cater to passengers aged 16 and above seeking a child-free environment during their flight, with dedicated seats onboard its Airbus A350s.

Asky Airlines Takes Delivery Of Its 1st Boeing 737 MAX

Dr. Omar Memon — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:00:25 GMT

ASKY Airlines takes delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. The aircraft is yet to enter commercial service, flying alongside other 737s in the ASKY’s existing fleet. The aircraft is a 4.9-year-old jet, first delivered to Okay Airways in China in October 2018. The aircraft was ferried from Addis Ababa International Airport (ADD) to Lomé–Tokoin International Airport (LFW) to join the airline. The carrier has not scheduled services for the newest aircraft yet.

Why Is Alaska's Juneau International Airport So Challenging To Fly Into?

Joshua Kupietzky — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 11:30:26 GMT

Certain airports around the world are very challenging for pilots to land due to a myriad of factors, including surroundings, structure, altitude, and location, just to name a few. Although some of these airports are completely avoided, others have regularly scheduled passenger service and serve multiple airlines.

London Heathrow Gets 1st Direct Wuhan Flight Since Pre-COVID

Jake Hardiman — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:01:26 GMT

The United Kingdom's London Heathrow Airport (LHR) has become the first European air hub to regain a direct, non-stop service to Wuhan, China, since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. The first flight touched down in the British capital earlier this morning, operated by an Airbus A350 from China Southern.

Spirit Airlines Celebrates 15 Years Of Flying To Colombia

Gaurav Joshi — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 09:07:14 GMT

Spirit Airlines recently celebrated its 15th anniversary of flying to Colombia. The airline marked the occasion with a donation to a nonprofit organization in Colombia as well as offering limited anniversary-special fares to passengers. Spirit has grown its network in Colombia extensively over the years and now has close to 500 monthly return flights to the country.

Batik Air Flying Boeing 737 Max From Kuala Lumpur To Auckland Via Perth

Michael Doran — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 08:01:25 GMT

On the face of it, flying a route from Kuala Lumpur to Perth to Auckland seems a long round, but today Malaysian-based carrier Batik Air launched just that service. It is an interesting route that is more about the city pairs than what a direct flight from Auckland to Kuala Lumpur would deliver.

British Airways Celebrates 75 Years Of Japan Flights

Luke Bodell — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 07:04:55 GMT

British Airways is celebrating 75 years of service to Japan. The carrier first flew to Japan with its fleet of flying boats just after World War II.

Delhi To Hong Kong: IndiGo To Restart Daily Flights In October

Gaurav Joshi — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 06:00:25 GMT

As demand for travel in Asia and Southeast Asia comes back, IndiGo is also catering to the trend and restarting services that it dropped during the pandemic. Among those is the flight between New Delhi and Hong Kong, which the carrier will resume this October.

Go First Stays Afloat With A $12 Million Lifeline

Gaurav Joshi — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 04:01:26 GMT

India’s cash-strapped and grounded budget carrier Go First has been granted $12 million as corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) cost to take care of urgent and mandatory liabilities. The airline is in the process of making a comeback, but no date has been finalized yet. It has several financial liabilities, such as aircraft upkeep, employee salaries, and airport fees, among many other things, and the latest cash approval will help with those.

Porter Airlines Announces Seven New US Routes With Embraer E195-E2s

Justin Foster — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 03:01:26 GMT

The Toronto, Canada-based airline Porter Airlines announced seven new routes on August 24. These routes include five different destinations in Florida. The new routes are the first United States-based routes that the airline's new Embraer E195-E2s fly. The airline is set to connect its new Florida destinations through Toronto Pearson and Ottawa.

Bonza 737 MAX Links Gold Coast To Tassie Nonstop

Michael Doran — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 01:00:26 GMT

Since Bonza first appeared on the Australian radar, its mantra has been about connecting communities who don't have access to affordable fares with nonstop flights. Yesterday Bonza did precisely that by announcing a first-ever year-round direct service between Queensland's Gold Coast and Launceston on the island of Tasmania.