https://simpleflying.com The latest aviation news from around the world. Wed, 30 Aug 2023 01:00:25 GMT en-US hourly 60 There has been a significant increase in runway incursions across busy airports in the United States. In the first four months of the year alone, the nation’s airports recorded nine near misses. The story continues well into the peak summer season, where several near misses have occurred. Interestingly, a good number of those incidents transpire between private jets and commercial airliners.

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 01:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/private-jet-near-misses-analysis/ A global analysis made by Mabrian Technologies showed that low-cost airlines hold 36% of the scheduled air seats globally, with the top five countries by inbound low-cost seats being the United States, India, Spain, China, and Italy. The top five largest LCCs are Southwest, Ryanair, IndiGo, easyJet, and Spirit.

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 00:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/36-flights-worldwide-low-cost/ Airline operations feature multiple pilot duty roles. While the responsibilities of a pilot's title, such as captain, first officer, or second officer, remain unchanged, the duties on a given flight rotate. Chiefly, pilots decide who will be flying and who will monitor. Long-haul pilots have even more decisions to make in addition to this. Here's a brief explanation of how pilots determine such tasks.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 23:01:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-pilots-divide-duties/ 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.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 20:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/iraqi-airways-takes-last-airbus-a220/ Back in 2020, musician Peter Frampton reflected on a nearly catastrophic incident involving none other than David Bowie. Their initial meeting took place during their school days in Bromley, and the friendship eventually led the two into a collaboration during Bowie's 1987 Glass Spider global tour and album.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 17:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/david-bowie-private-jet-heroics-story/ 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.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 17:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/united-airlines-significant-alterations-china-flights/ 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.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 15:31:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/delta-air-lines-announces-honolulu-tokyo-haneda-route/ Testing is an essential part of aircraft engine development. Jet engines are put through a comprehensive testing program right after they are built. Functional testing of a completed engine occurs in three stages: static tests (while the engine is not running), stationary operating tests, and flight tests. All engine systems, including hydraulic, electrical, and cooling, are checked during these tests.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-are-jet-engine-noise-levels-tested/ Aircraft maintenance engineers play a vital role in keeping aircraft flying. Since airlines must keep their planes in the sky to generate money, Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services must work around the clock to support this mission. Most aviation maintenance sites operate three shifts in a 24-hour period.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 12:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-maintenance-engineers-keep-fleets-moving/ 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.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 07:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/disabled-man-dream-job-christchurch-airport/ 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.

]]> Tue, 29 Aug 2023 05:01:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/rex-national-jet-express-9th-dash-8-400/ Amid the often high costs of aviation fuel, the question arises as to why commercial airlines occasionally find it necessary to dispose of this valuable resource mid-flight. The answer to this seemingly puzzling situation lies in the considerations of landing weight and safety. Aircraft are meticulously engineered to touch down at or below predetermined weight thresholds, which are notably lower than their takeoff weights. This precaution is taken to minimize the risk of a forceful impact upon landing, which could potentially result in structural damage.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 22:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/fuel-dump/ Private jets can choose to land at commercial, general aviation, or privately owned airports, each with its distinct fee structure that owners of business jets are responsible for covering.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 20:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/private-jets-landing-fees-guide/ As any traveler knows, additional or ancillary charges are becoming ever more common with airlines. With many airlines, it is now very difficult to avoid paying more than just the base airfare. What started with traditional low-cost airlines has now spread across the industry, with even “full-service” business class services increasingly being sold with a list of extras.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 19:30:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/airlines-with-most-hidden-fees-list/ In this article, we will discuss five dates that have significantly impacted the history of aviation. We will start with Wilber and Orville Wright's first flight in 1903 and add four more dates that have been milestones over the last 120 years.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 18:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/5-dates-that-have-defined-aviation-history/ 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.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 17:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/avilease-busy-standard-charter-lease-portfolio/ It took some time, but the wait was well worth the results. Recently, a Chester-based aircraft maintenance company, Aerocare, completed the refurbishment of an Embraer Legacy 600 owned by one of Europe's largest private jet operators, AirX Charter.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 15:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/the-golden-touch-a-look-at-this-stunning-refurbished-embraer-legacy-600/ Airline pilots almost always talk to the ground crew using headsets during pushback. On the other hand, general aviation and private jets usually don't push back from gates, and many smaller planes cannot plug in the headsets, which allow for direct communication. Even at the airline level, headsets don't always work. For these reasons, pilots and ground workers share a standard communicative method of using hand signals. Let's talk about the importance of marshaling gestures.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/airport-apron-hand-signals-guide/ 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.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:08:22 GMT https://simpleflying.com/nairobi-airport-boss-sacked-power-cut-delays-passengers/ Away from the constraints of commercial air travel, those who can afford it fly by private jet. Some businesses use their own private jets to fly their teams out for business reasons, but private jets are often chartered for leisure. So where exactly are the wealthy traveling to and why?

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/popular-destinations-for-private-jet-travel/ 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.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/ethiopia-aircraft-fleet-5-billion-usd-value/ 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.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 10:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/beirut-airport-atc-stop-night-operations/ Aircraft come in all sizes and shapes. However, some are more conventional than others. The article highlights some of the most unorthodox-looking aircraft in history. While there are many others, only a handful are covered here.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 10:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/unorthodox-looking-aircraft-list/ 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.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/auckland-airport-successful-marriage-proposal/ 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.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/virgin-australia-unveils-aussie-bag-tracking/ 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.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/fiji-airways-a350-business-class-very-high-bar/ Today, we will look at the various ways you can fly on a private jet, from the most expensive options to pretty reasonable ones. Long regarded as a form of travel that only celebrities and the very wealthy could afford, today, the idea of flying by private jet is within reach for most people.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-can-you-fly-on-a-private-jet/ Working on a private jet as a flight attendant is very different from the role of commercial cabin crew. Likewise, the schedule is very different as is the salary structure. Here we look in more detail at the difference.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:45:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/private-jet-flight-attendants-salary-guide/ Airport slots often make the news for their multi-million dollar sale prices at congested airports. But what is a 'slot,' who decides when an airline can fly into a facility, and why can they be so valuable? Let's take a look.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 22:31:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/airline-slot/ The world has just over three million non-stop scheduled flights in September. If that sounds a lot, it is because it is. However, they remain down by 6.1% versus September 2019, equivalent to more than 6,000 fewer services daily.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 20:00:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/middle-east-more-flights-september-than-2019/ Global luggage storage company Radical Storage has recently released its findings on which inflight airline snacks and meals are the least expensive on some of the world's most popular airlines. Radical Storage also worked with a nutritionist to determine which inflight food offerings were the healthiest and which you would probably want to avoid.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 19:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/cheapest-airline-catering-list/ 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.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 19:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/difference-riyadh-air-neighbors/ While most airlines in the United States and Europe are privately owned, many of the world's largest global carriers are owned at least in part by their respective governments. These carriers often operate differently, as they attempt to fulfill governments' strategic initiatives rather than simply return the highest profits to their shareholders. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the ten largest airlines (by number of destinations served) that are fully or partially state-owned.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 15:54:32 GMT https://simpleflying.com/largest-state-owned-airlines-list/ Flying on a private jet offers many advantages and flexibilities. Passengers have a choice over flight times, routes, and airports used. It's not just schedules that are relaxed, though - softer areas like dress code, catering, and what to bring onboard are all flexible too.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 14:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/do-private-jets-have-dress-codes/ 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.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:29:29 GMT https://simpleflying.com/sunday-reads-122/ 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.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:00:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/latam-boeing-787-suspected-fuel-leak/ 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.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 08:15:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/auckland-airpor-airlines-offside-profit-plummets-charges-rise/ 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.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 05:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/virgin-australia-velocity-luxury-escapes-qantas-gold/ Air travel often involves connecting flights, and connecting flights can add an extra layer of complexity to your journey. Properly planning a connecting itinerary can help ensure a seamless travel experience and minimize potential hiccups along the way. From transfer times to baggage choices, airport amenities to booking strategies, and even upgrade considerations, here are a few tips to make your connections as smooth as possible.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 02:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/connecting-itinerary-top-tips/ 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.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 02:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/gol-boeing-737-max-rejects-takeoff-engine-problem/ Fly Angola has found itself treading in deep water, with flights suspended seemingly indefinitely from August 18th.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 01:20:29 GMT https://simpleflying.com/fly-angola-suspends-domestic-flights-following-economic-constraints/ In the US, the first air display team dates back to 1927, when three pilots from the Army Air Corps formed the Three Musketeers. Unfortunately, within one year of commencing operations, all three of the original pilots had perished in air crashes.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 23:46:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/lesser-known-air-display-teams-list/ 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.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 21:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/five-longest-boeing-787-10-routes-september-2023/ In the hip-hop universe, success frequently translates into a lifestyle of opulence, replete with wads of cash, luxury cars, sprawling estates, and exotic vacations. Some elite rappers take it to the next level, with their lavish existence extending to owning the ultimate status symbol: private jets.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 20:46:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/7-rappers-who-own-private-jets/ Collins Aerospace (Collins), a Raytheon Technologies (RTX) business, is unlocking new technologies to optimize engine operations to reduce carbon emissions in the environment and maintenance costs. The company is eyeing future aircraft that are more electrically powered and are less dependent on fossil fuels. While the aim is no different than that of the aviation industry in general, Collins is replacing more pneumatic systems with state-of-the-art electrical systems in aircraft.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 18:45:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/collins-aerospace-component-replacements-carbon-emissions-reduction/ Some military transport aircraft are immense, capable of carrying tanks, fighter jets, ammunition, and even helicopters. These massive planes drive the capabilities of various armed forces around the globe. But with significant power comes substantial costs and a hefty price tag.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 17:45:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-much-do-military-transport-aircraft-cost/ In the age of increasingly innovative technology, society unfortunately has to deal with people using it for the wrong purposes. People are concerned about cameras being everywhere: on mobile phones, laptops, hidden in buildings, and even inside an aircraft. While strict rules and regulations prevent people from doing something suspicious onboard a plane, it would make many anxious to know there are cameras looking out over the cabin passengers.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 14:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/cctv-on-airliners-debate-analysis/ General aviation pilots are accustomed to operating without air traffic controllers. Whether maneuvering in a practice area using “see and avoid” techniques or flying traffic patterns at an untowered airport, not having ATC is something every pilot is accustomed to. In contrast to general aviation, airline operations are almost exclusively performed under the supervision of ATC. Key word: almost. Let’s discuss some of the few times when airline pilots operate without ATC.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 13:45:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/when-airline-pilots-oeprate-without-atc-guide/ When it comes to air travel, finding the right balance between comfort and cost is often a top priority for many passengers. Qantas, Australia's flagship airline, understands this well and offers a premium travel option that bridges the gap between economy class and business class: Qantas Premium Economy.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 11:01:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-premium-economy-guide/ 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.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 09:01:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/swiss-crew-selfies-boeing-777/ 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.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 04:07:17 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-airbus-a330s-bali/ 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.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 02:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-new-zealand-reintroduces-boeing-787-auckland-perth/ Getting a job on a private jet as a flight attendant can be quite difficult. It is a very niche area, and there is a lot of competition for roles, so much so that many jobs are not even advertised. So what do you need to work on a private jet?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 20:31:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-to-become-private-jet-flight-attendant/ 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.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 19:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/tulum-international-airport-first-routes/ The use of private jets for those who can afford one is not only convenient but also time-effective. Celebrities, business owners, and executives of multi-million dollar companies often travel via private jets. Private jet travel is very different from commercial air travel. This article highlights six ways in which private jet operations differ from commercial airline operations.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 18:31:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/private-jet-operators-commercial-airlines-differences-list/ Surinam Airways, wholly owned by its country's government, is the flag carrier of Suriname. It has been flying for over 65 years, with a varied fleet of Boeing, Airbus, Douglas, and other aircraft. It has operated a limited number of long-haul routes to Europe. However, it has primarily focused on local connections.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 17:00:29 GMT https://simpleflying.com/surinam-airways-guide/ Feeling fly like a G6? Or an Airbus A319ACJ? If you've got money to burn and first class suites are starting to feel ever-so-gauche, airlines are bulking up their premium offerings to ensure passengers the ultimate travel experience – private flights.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 15:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/airlines-offer-private-jet-services/ Today, we will look at five food and drink items synonymous with modern commercial airlines. Handley Page Transport was the first airline to serve food on flights. Passengers between London and Paris were offered a selection of sandwiches and fresh fruit.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/food-drink-modern-airline-symbolism-list/ 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.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/asky-airlines-1st-boeing-737-max-delivery/ Simple Flying’s latest podcast is live and ready for you to enjoy. Hosted this week by Tom Boon, our Content Manager, the 184th episode is now available for your listening pleasure.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:45:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/podcast-184/ SWISS has four Airbus A340-300s. Like other four-engined widebodies in service with airlines worldwide, SWISS' examples are a diminishing part of its fleet. While the carrier's average A340 route length this summer covers more than 4,200 miles (6,759 km), it continues using them on short European routes – always great to see.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/swiss-airbus-a340-europe-flights/ The differences between flying with an airline and flying aboard a private jet go beyond comfort and convenience, into flight operations themselves. Operational differences often include higher cruising altitudes aboard private jets, which can significantly impact the flying experience. Why is this so?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 12:30:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/why-private-jets-usually-fly-higher/ Some believe duct tape can fix everything, but they would be mistaken. Indeed, it has various good uses inside and outside the home, but simple duct tape would not last long against the temperatures, forces, and elements that aircraft of all types experience. So, the industry has found another solution, called speed tape.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/why-airlines-use-speed-tape/ It is 50 years since Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War ended, but for those who want to see some of the aircraft from the conflict, the HARS Aviation Museum is the place to head for. The September Tarmac Day will feature a range of its aircraft that are associated with the war as a tribute to the Australian men and women who served their country.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:01:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/hars-museum-vietnam-war-aircraft-tarmac-day/ The Bombardier CRJ100/200 series is a popular line of rear-engined regional jets, with the manufacturer having produced more than 1,000 examples between 1991 and 2006. Today, data from ch-aviation.com shows that 309 of these remain active, and they are spread across some 80 operators. But which are the oldest?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 02:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/oldest-active-bombardier-crj100-200-jets/ The Airbus A380 is one of the most iconic aircraft of this century, if not the most iconic. Despite its lack of commercial success among airlines, the European double-decker is a favorite among travelers worldwide.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 02:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/best-airbus-a380-airport/ 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.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 01:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/bonza-737-max-links-gold-coast-tassie-nonstop/ In a significant milestone for aviation and cross-continental manufacturing collaboration, JetSMART has etched its name in history by becoming the first South American carrier to receive an aircraft manufactured in the Airbus factory in Mobile, Alabama, in the United States. The delivery of the Airbus A320neo marks an achievement for regional aviation and underscores the growing range of the European OEM.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 00:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/jetsmart-south-america-first-carrier-receive-alabama-made-airbus-aircraft/ In the age where airlines are always trying to get one more dollar from your flight booking, there is a lesser-known source of revenue. Many carriers allow their passengers to bid for an upgrade for less than the cost of booking the next travel class.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 23:31:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/the-business-behind-bidding-for-seat-upgrades/ Australia has 1,794 international departing flights in the first week of September, based on the latest OAG data. However, the country's international market has 11% fewer flights than before the pandemic. Predictably, this is especially the case for Hong Kong (-52%) and China (-40%), while there are many more services to India (+163%) and Vietnam (+65%).

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 18:31:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/australia-top-10-international-destinations/ Etihad Airways has close ties to Manchester City FC. As well as having been the team's kit sponsor since 2009, the Abu Dhabi-based UAE flag carrier's name has also adorned its home ground, the Etihad Stadium, since 2011. In reflection of this longstanding partnership, two Etihad jets have had Manchester City liveries.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 17:41:31 GMT https://simpleflying.com/etihad-airways-manchester-city-livery-story/ During my recent Emirates A380 journey, I had the chance to check out the Ahlan lounge located at Terminal 3, Concourse A of Dubai International Airport (DXB). While Emirates passengers do have access to the airline's lounge, there are over a dozen lounges located across all three terminals of DXB, which other passengers can use.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/ahlan-lounge-review-dubai-terminal-3/ The Middle Eastern mega-hub Dubai International Airport (DXB) is known worldwide for its facilities and capacity to handle massive passenger traffic. With its geographical location optimal for connecting passengers from and to all over the world, and Dubai being one of the best tourist destinations in the world, here are five fun facts about the airport.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/dubai-airport-fun-facts-list/ Just a couple of months before the resumption of its long-haul service, South African Airways (SAA) has updated its flight schedule, indicating that it will replace the Airbus A340 with the A330 on both routes between South Africa and Brazil.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/south-african-airways-swaps-airbus-a340-a330-brazil-flights/ While most of Qatar Airways' 164 passenger destinations from its Doha hub in September are served non-stop, several are served on a one-stop basis. This enables less demanded places to join its network, although aircraft availability and the closeness of airports also may be factors. One-stops often permit more flights than might otherwise be feasible, while improving loads, connectivity, and competitiveness. However, as they have higher costs and complexity, the eventual hope usually is to de-link them.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-airways-1-stop-routes/ Recently, Simple Flying highlighted the weight savings of the General Electric GE9X engine as a result of the additive manufacturing (AM) techniques employed by the OEM. The company combined more than 300 engine parts into only seven through Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D Printing software that directs machines to deposit specialized material, layer upon layer, in precise geometric shapes. The process repeats until the entire part is created.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 12:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/3d-printing-aviation-advantages/ Antarctica is a continent characterized by its extreme conditions and isolated landscapes. It poses unique challenges for supporting any human activity, and aviation is no exception.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:30:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/antarctica-ice-runway-operations-infrastructure-guide/ Air New Zealand has committed to growing its regional fleet by placing an order for up to four ATR 72-600 turboprops. The deal that it has signed with the Franco-Italian manufacturer has seen it place two firm orders for the type, with options for another pair. Elsewhere, the carrier's short-haul jet fleet is also set to see growth.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-new-zealand-atr-order/ One of the big advantages of private jet travel is flexibility. Private aviation travelers have flexibility with where and when to fly, the route to take, and even what aircraft to use. Such aircraft can land at a wide range of airports - from the most prominent commercial airports to those with dedicated private facilities.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 09:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/where-do-private-jets-land/ After racking up billions of dollars in losses during COVID, Qantas has produced a stunning turnaround, posting an underlying profit of AU$$2.47 billion ($1.63b) for the twelve months ended June 30th, 2023 (FY23).

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 08:21:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-a247-billion-profit-mega-sale-points-giveaway/ It has been a bumper financial year and a bonza day for the two airline heavyweights from Australasia. Starting the day, Air New Zealand announced statutory earnings of NZ$574 million ($344m) and a few hours later Qantas chipped in with an underlying profit of AU$2.47 billion ($1.63b).

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 05:30:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-new-zealand-profit-airbus-a321neos-trans-tasman/ American ultra-low-cost-carrier (ULCC) Frontier (F9) is set to soar this winter, as the carrier announced a long list of new routes across its ever-expanding network.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 02:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/frontier-airlines-mexico-dominican-republic-expansion-2023/ Today Australia's flag carrier Qantas announced an underlying profit of AU$2.47 billion ($1.63b) and immediately set about spending it on new aircraft. After much speculation Qantas confirmed it had placed firm orders for Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft to ultimately replace its fleet of A330 and A380 jets.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 01:51:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-orders-a350s-787s-replace-a330s-a380s/ In a significant development, the alliance between JetSMART and American Airlines has achieved a major milestone with the inclusion of Peru in their codeshare agreement. This strategic partnership has taken another leap forward, expanding its reach beyond Chile and the United States to now encompass Peru.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/jetsmart-increases-codeshare-american-airlines/ Have you ever wondered whether aircraft seats are getting smaller or if you're eating too many pies? Chances are it's the seats, despite your pie intake.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 23:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/why-airlines-reducing-leg-room-isnt-always-bad/ Líneas Aéreas Privadas Argentinas, better known as LAPA, was an Argentinian carrier that existed for over a quarter of a century. It was the first private company to run domestic flights in the country, and it battled against the state operators Aerolíneas Argentinas and Austral. However, it has now been defunct for two decades, which begs the question as to what happened to the airline. Let's take a look.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 22:31:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/argentina-lapa/ The Airport Council International – Latin America & the Caribbean (ACI-LAC) released today the top ten ranking of airports in the region with the most passenger traffic, cargo, and aircraft movements in 2022. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the listing was dominated by hubs in Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil, the three largest aviation markets in the region. Let’s investigate further.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 22:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/latin-america-ten-busiest-airports-2022/ Qatar Airways, a longtime partner of FIFA, has extended its partnership with the world football organization. At this time, the exact details of the extension are unknown.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 21:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-airways-extends-partnership-fifa/ Concorde was a remarkable feat of engineering and represented perhaps the pinnacle of luxury air travel during its time in service. It was even often preferred over private jets for many transatlantic flights due to its impressive speed and level of luxury. From its commercial debut in the 1970s until its retirement in 2003, this supersonic jet attracted many of the world's most prestigious and famous passengers. Let's look at five famous Concorde passengers who left a mark on the iconic airliner's history.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:01:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/famous-frequent-concorde-passengers-list/ Aerolíneas Argentinas’ four unions rejected the airline’s first wage increase proposal on Tuesday during the ongoing salary negotiations. According to the Unions, the proposal presented by the state carrier was “well below the inflation rate,” prompting them to reject it firmly.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 19:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/argentinian-union-rejects-aerolineas-argentinas-wage-increase/ Today, we will look at some top tips for flying during hot weather. If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you will know that this summer has been sweltering in parts of Southern Europe, the Southwest United States, and even parts of China. Last month, Italy, Greece, and Spain saw temperatures exceed 45C (113F). Meanwhile, Phoenix, Arizona, was baking as the temperature exceeded 110F for consecutive days.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:31:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-travel-hot-weather-top-tips/ Quadjet widebody aircraft are becoming increasingly rare in passenger operations as airlines prefer much more fuel-efficient twinjets. Nonetheless, a range of airlines still use them.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/quadjet-widebody-flights-september-2023/ The general understanding of the distinctions between commercial and private flying often focuses on business jets' enhanced comfort and convenience. But there are certainly more contrasts between the two, including differences in the altitude these aircraft operate.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 14:00:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-high-do-private-jets-fly/ This summer has been one of the busiest for air travel in history, with airlines worldwide surpassing previous highs in every category ranging from passengers carried to total profits. Like countless other airlines, Emirates has profited heavily from the summer travel demand. Since June, it has carried over 14 million passengers, averaging a seat load factor of over 80%. While this is undoubtedly one of the busiest summers for Emirates, it is also one of the most profitable.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/emirates-14-million-passengers-summer-2023/ After ten years of connecting East Africa with the Republic of Korea, Ethiopian Airlines (ET) is scaling up its frequency between Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) and Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) to six weekly flights, starting on October 28. The carrier will also deploy its latest Airbus A350 aircraft on the route.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:31:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/ethiopian-airlines-ups-seoul-schedule-airbus-a350/ Qatar Airways has confirmed that it will cease flying to Philadelphia. While expected, it comes as partner American Airlines adds Philadelphia-Doha. It resulted from its exit from New York JFK-Doha, which meant that Qatar Airways grew JFK flights to triple daily.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-airways-drops-philadelphia-american-airlines-takes-over/ Air travel can be stressful enough as it is for anyone, but regardless of in what capacity, traveling with young children is very challenging. Airlines attempt to make things less burdensome for parents with infants by allowing them to hold their babies during the flight. This article examines some of the ins and outs of such an offering.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 08:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/when-do-young-children-need-own-flight-tickets/ Passengers are typically seen pulling laptops and other devices out of their carry-on bags as soon as the airplane hits cruising altitude. Especially on long flights, this seems to be a regular occurrence. But not all computer users utilize a portable laptop and instead use a larger desktop computer.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 01:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/can-desktop-computers-be-transported-on-airliners/ South Korea's Air Premia has added its next US route: Seoul to Honolulu. While not available to book at the time of writing, it is now in the schedules. The addition comes three months after it inaugurated Seoul to Newark in May 2023. Like all the carrier's routes, Honolulu will entirely rely on point-to-point demand, which can be tricky for long-haul operators.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 23:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-premia-boeing-787-flights-honolulu-united-states/ On July 11th, 2019, the 'One More Orbit' mission succeeded in breaking the polar circumnavigation speed record, clocking in at 46 hours, 40 minutes and 22 seconds pole-to-pole. The effort was completed onboard a Qatar Executive Gulfstream G650ER, and the record has yet to be beaten four years after it was set.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 22:30:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-gulfstream-circumnavigation-record/