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Flybe puts it stamp on Europe with Air France codeshare
News Update 13th July 2010
Flybe is to codeshare with Air France this autumn as part of a strategy to get a stronger foothold in the European business market.
More C919 partners falling into place
News Update 13th July 2010
Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) continues to line up partners for the new C919, with strong participation from US-based aerospace companies. COMAC announced the selection of Rockwell Collins to provide communication and navigation solutions, Honeywell to provide wheels and brakes, the brake control system (BCS) and tyres and GE Aviation Systems to provide the avionics core processing system, display system and on-board maintenance systems.
Emirates sells stake in SriLankan
News Update 8th July 2010
Sri Lanka said on Wednesday said that it bought back Emirates Airline's stake in SriLankan Airlines for $53 million.
Thai Airways raising $339-million loan for refinancing purposes
News Update 8th July 2010
Thai Airways International PCL said it expects to conclude a bank loan deal worth THB11 billion ($338.67 million) for refinancing purposes around September or October.
Aircraft repair market to double in a decade
News Update 7th July 2010
The Middle East’s aviation maintenance and repair market is expected to double in the next 10 years as the number of aircraft operating in the region is growing.
Aviation market takes off in first 6 months
News Update 7th July 2010
The number of airline passengers in Turkey reached 44.6 million in the first six months of 2010, representing an increase of 24 percent over the same period last year.
IBA Provides Goldman Sachs Investors with Wide-Body Aircraft Market Perspective.
Press Release 6th July 2010
Leading aviation consultancy, the International Bureau of Aviation (IBA), hosted a market update presentation during a webinar run by the global banking financial services firm Goldman Sachs. IBA presented on the webinar and shared their views, opinions and analysis on the wide-body aircraft market with an international group of Goldman Sachs’ investors and clients.
Alitalia Joins Air France-KLM Venture and US Delta Airlines
News Update 6th July 2010
Alitalia, Italy’s flagship carrier, announced on Monday that it would be joining a joint venture currently undertaken by Air France-KLM and U.S. airline Delta Airlines to share routes, the company announced on Monday.
1time flies into the big time with JSE induction
News Update 6th July 2010
Diversified aviation group 1Time Holdings made a giant leap yesterday from the AltX index - where it was one of the best performers - to the main board of the JSE in the hope of attracting major institutional investment.
India's civil aviation to be in top 5: Patel
News Update 5th July 2010
Ahmedabad Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel said on Sunday that India's civil aviation sector would be among the top five in the world in the next five years time.
UAE: National airlines' fleet to grow by 13 per cent
News Update 5th July 2010
The fleet of national airlines in the UAE will grow by 13 per cent in the coming years to touch 728 aircraft by 2020, compared to 157 aircraft registered in 2007, according to projections made by General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
Newswatch 2010 Issue 25 out now!
Newswatch 2nd July 2010
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner completes firm configuration after years of testing
News Update 2nd July 2010
Boeing announced on Thursday that the completion of firm configuration for the 787-9 Dreamliner had been reached after years of collaboration with airline customers and partners to determine the optimal configuration for the new jetliner.
Airline Pacific told to change logo... or else
News Update 1st July 2010
The Civil Aviation Administration of Viet Nam has ordered low-cost carrier Jetstar Pacific to change the logo on its six aircraft by September 15.
WTO ruling slaps Airbus
News Update 1st July 2010
In an unambiguous ruling against Airbus made public Wednesday, the World Trade Organization said the European planemaker received illegal subsidies for every jet program it has launched since it entered the market 40 years ago.
End is in sight for BA / Iberia merger
News Update 30th June 2010
British airways has entered the final phase of its £5bn tie up with Iberia, after formally signing merger documents with its one-time Spanish rival to create the world's third biggest airline.
RAK Airways to relaunch services this year
News Update 30th June 2010
Ras Al Khaimah: RAK Airways will re-launch services before the end of 2010, following a hiatus of more than a year, a senior executive said on Wednesday.
New era in Cyprus aviation: KTHY partners with Atlasjet
News Update 29th June 2010
Cyprus Turkish Airlines (KTHY) has reached an agreement with Turkey’s Atlasjet to establish a joint venture on a 50-50 profit sharing model for a term of five years, heralding the dawn of a new era in the problem-ridden civil aviation sector of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC).
Qatar Airways Makes Its South American Debut
News Update 29th June 2010
Qatar Airways has celebrated yet another milestone in its short history with the launch of scheduled daily flights to Brazil and Argentina marking its foray into South America for the first time.
SAA set to replace aircraft on London services
News Update 28th June 2010
SAA expects to start replacing older aircraft in use on its services to London with newer Airbus A330-200s as early as February, according to Fani Zulu, the head of group corporate affairs.
Al Maktoum International opens in Dubai
News Update 28th June 2010
Dubai opened its second airport on Sunday, three weeks after its flagship carrier Emirates placed a major order for Airbus 380 superjumbos, enforcing its status as an air transport hub.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 24 out now!
Newswatch 25th June 2010
Boeing to Inspect 787s Before Next Flights
News Update 25th June 2010
Boeing will inspect the 787's horizontal stabilizers, the smaller wing on the plane's tail, on all flight test airplanes before their next flights.
Inspections find cracks on at least two American Airlines jets
News Update 24th June 2010
Chancellor George Osborne promises only to 'explore' proposals for bringing in a per-plane tax on the aviation industry
Summer travel chaos looming as BA union prepares fresh strike ballot
News Update 24th June 2010
Fresh strike action is looming at British Airways (BA) after the Unite union has announced plans to ballot its 12,000 cabin crew members next week, unless the long-running dispute is resolved.
Turkish Cypriot airline grounded
News Update 23rd June 2010
The future of Cyprus Turkish Airlines (CTA) hung in the balance yesterday after the Turkish Civil Aviation Office (TSHD) in Turkey ordered the grounding of all its aircraft from midnight on Monday because of mounting debts. “Tens of thousands” of passenger booking could be affected, according to officials at CTA.
Air Midwest commences operation
News Update 23rd June 2010
Air Midwest, an indigenous new carrier, on Monday presented its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Buddha Air brings new 70-seater aircraft
News Update 22nd June 2010
Private airlines companies are flying high. Though the ailing-national flag carrier Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) has been in controversy over buying new aircraft, the private ones have been adding new aircraft.
Bombardier jet orders may take off
News Update 22nd June 2010
Bombardier Inc. and other Canadian aerospace manufacturers are expected to announce new orders at next month’s air show of the year at Farnborough, U.K., an industry analyst said Monday.
MAS may cancel Airbus A380 order
News Update 21st June 2010
“We’re not happy with the delays and we’ll not rule anything out at this stage,” MAS managing director and CEO Tengku Datuk Azmil Zahruddin said.
Garuda asks for $1.5b loan from U.S. Exim Bank
News Update 21st June 2010
National flag carrier Garuda Indonesia said Monday it would ask for a loan between US$1.5 billion and $2 billion from the U.S. Exim Bank to finance its airplane procurement.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 23 out now!
Newswatch 18th June 2010
Japan Airlines Submits Antitrust Immunity Application for a Tighter Cooperation with American Airlines
News Update 18th June 2010
On June 18, Japan Airlines (JAL) applied to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan, seeking antitrust immunity with American Airlines (AA) so that both members of the oneworld Alliance may enter a Joint Business Agreement (JBA) and cooperate more closely on the operations of flights between North America and Asia.
First Boeing New Generation Aircraft Sold for Part-Out. IBA Group Completes a Successful Sale.
Press Release 18th June 2010
The first Boeing NG aircraft, a 1999 vintage B737-600, has been sold to CT Aerospace for part-out. The aircraft is currently being dismantled at Cotswold Airport in Gloucestershire. The aircraft, formerly owned by FlyGlobespan who entered Administration in December 2009, had recently been returned off a sub-lease from Midwest Airlines in Egypt.
Boeing raises 737 jet output for second time in 2 months
News Update 17th June 2010
Boeing Co. plans to boost production of its best-selling 737 jet by an additional 3 percent, the second increase in two months, as airlines recover from the recession and add to the plane’s $138-billion order backlog.
Garuda to resume more European flights next year
News Update 17th June 2010
After resuming its Jakarta — Amsterdam service last week, national flagged carrier PT Garuda Indonesia Airways expects to serve four other European cities in February, next year, the airline’s executive has said.
Garuda to resume more European flights next year
News Update 17th June 2010
After resuming its Jakarta — Amsterdam service last week, national flagged carrier PT Garuda Indonesia Airways expects to serve four other European cities in February, next year, the airline’s executive has said.
Sky Airlines purchases new jet from Boeing
News Update 16th June 2010
Sky Airlines, a Turkish charter airline based in the southern city of Antalya, has purchased a new airplane, increasing the number of planes in its fleet to 16.
THAI talks new jets with Airbus, Boeing
News Update 16th June 2010
Thai Airways International has begun talks with Airbus and Boeing to negotiate discounts and easier terms on orders for 15 high-capacity planes worth more than 35 billion baht.
AI sees red as Jet talks pricing with BMI
News Update 15th June 2010
Naresh Goyal-controlled Jet Airways seems to have come in the way of a marketing alliance currently being negotiated between Air India and British Midland, thus creating uncertainty over the fate of the discussions between the two. In what can be seen as putting a spanner, Jet Airways has negotiated the pricing strategy with British Midland (BMI) for cross selling of seats on each other’s domestic network, a senior government official said.
Continental plans nonstop from Houston to Nigeria
News Update 15th June 2010
Continental Airlines will try again to fly to Lagos, Nigeria.
Luxair signs agreement with Boeing to purchase Next-Generation 737-800 jet
News Update 14th June 2010
Luxair Luxembourg Airlines, the national airline of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, has signed an agreement with Boeing to purchase one Next-Generation 737-800 jetliner.
New passenger aircraft to break duopoly
News Update 14th June 2010
Boeing and Airbus have dominated the skies for decades, but their duopoly is about to be challenged.
Boeing and Bombardier Could Partner: Analyst
News Update 11th June 2010
If Airbus parent EADS is talking with Embraer about the 100-seat aircraft market, might Boeing talk with Bombardier?
Flag carrier Vietnam Airlines to be member of SkyTeam
News Update 10th June 2010
The flag carrier of Vietnam is scheduled to become a member of the global aviation alliance SkyTeam in June, allowing the airline to expand its flight networks.
Aviation agencies ground airlines’ flights debt
News Update 10th June 2010
Disturbed by the continued indebtedness to aviation agencies by airlines to the tune of N5 billion, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on Wednesday descended on the airlines, starting with Arik Air and IRS, and grounded their morning flights.
Aero Engine Leasing - the quietly confident sector of aviation.
Press Release 9th June 2010
What sets engine values apart from aircraft values and why have some of the world’s canniest financial institutions invested in this area? Phil Seymour, President and COO of independent aviation consultancy IBA Group, gives his views on this topic ahead of presenting the opening session at UBM Aviation’s Aero Engine Leasing, Trading & Finance Conference in London next week.
Tibet Airlines to begin flights in mid 2011
News Update 9th June 2010
Tibet Airlines, the first carrier based in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, will start flight operations in the middle of next year and is recruiting employees now, Tuesday's China Business News reported.
Emirates Places $11.5 Bln Order For Additional 32 Airbus A380 Aircraft
News Update 9th June 2010
Dubai-based Emirates Airline said Tuesday that it placed an order with Airbus, a unit of European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co. N.V., or EADS, for an additional 32 A380 aircraft. The order for the additional aircraft, which is the biggest single order for the superjumbo to date, is valued at US$11.5 billion.
Asia-Pacific to drive global aviation
News Update 8th June 2010
Global airlines, which posted USD 2.8 billion loss last year, are expected to turnaround and achieve a profit of USD 2.5 billion this year, of which the Asia-Pacific carriers would account for USD 2.2 billion, the global airlines body IATA said.
Kingfisher Airlines joins ‘oneworld alliance’
News Update 8th June 2010
India’s Kingfisher Airlines have joined the oneworld alliance to answer the rising demand of global travellers. “By becoming a partner of oneworld, we will be able to offer passengers more than 800 destinations in 150 countries on a network with the best coverage of the routes,” Kingfisher Airlines’ senior vice president Manoj Chacko said Monday.
Go for smaller aircraft: Boeing to AI
News Update 7th June 2010
State-run carrier AI (AI) is in a fix ahead of its plan to restructure its international operations by the year end.
Al Jaber Aviation to acquire two more aircraft this year
News Update 7th June 2010
Abu Dhabi's Al Jaber Aviation, or AJA, which has so far acquired three executive jets in its first year of operations, said two more aircraft will join its fleet in the second half of 2010.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 21 out now!
Newswatch 4th June 2010
Boeing considers its 737 options
News Update 4th June 2010
The Boeing Co. will go ahead with an all-new single-aisle jet, to replace its popular 737, if the company decides it can do so effectively by the year 2020, the company’s chief executive said Thursday.
Nepali Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation asked to scrap Airbus deal
News Update 3rd June 2010
Nepali Ministry of Finance (MoF) has asked the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoTCA) to scrap its purchase plan of two aircraft for Nepal Airline Corporation (NAC).
Third budget airline seeks clearance for take-off
News Update 3rd June 2010
Dubai The UAE's aviation industry will soon see a third low-cost carrier after approvals are granted, Saif Mohammad Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, told Gulf News yesterday.
Delta adds two new Southeast Asia routes
News Update 2nd June 2010
Delta Air Lines expands its option this week for passengers looking to fly from the Motor City to Southeast Asia.
Porter Airlines puts IPO on hold
News Update 2nd June 2010
Porter Airlines has decided not to take wing on the stock market just yet.
Ryanair soars back into profit, pays 1st dividend
News Update 1st June 2010
European budget airline Ryanair announced a return to robust full-year profits Tuesday and unveiled its first-ever cash dividend to shareholders, underlining its ability to fight the headwinds of recession.
Flydubai celebrates first anniversary with new routes
News Update 1st June 2010
Flying the flag of Dubai, low-cost carrier flydubai launched its first flight one year ago today.
PetroChina to team with Boeing to develop aviation biofuels
News Update 28th May 2010
Boeing, PetroChina, China's National Energy Administration (NEA) and aviation industry representatives will work together to evaluate the possible benefits of a sustainable aviation biofuels industry in China to the environment and social economy.
Etihad Airways ups Beijing to Abu Dhabi flights
News Update 27th May 2010
Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), plans to expand its Abu Dhabi to Beijing service to seven days a week this year and begin non-stop flights to Shanghai in 2011 or 2012, a top executive from the airline said on Tuesday.
Vietnam Airlines to open more short-haul routes
News Update 27th May 2010
Vietnam Airlines will launch at least two more short-haul air routes next month to improve its direct air connections among the country’s major cities and other destinations.
SpiceJet to raise USD 75 mn for fleet expansion plan
News Update 26th May 2010
Private air carrier SpiceJet today said it will raise USD 75 million (about Rs 355 crore) through the sale of shares or bonds to fund its fleet and route expansion programme.
Slattery’s Avolon Takes Off With AerCap Deal
News Update 26th May 2010
Avolon, the aircraft leasing firm set up by Ennis businessman Dómhnal Slattery, has announced plans to acquire up to six jets from a Dutch-based aircraft leasing group.
AI Express alleges bid to malign carrier
News Update 25th May 2010
Air India Express on Monday stated that it meets all regulatory requirements and “has always been well equipped” to handle the operations and maintenance of its fleet to established standards.
Aviation industry flies into more turbulence
News Update 25th May 2010
The aviation industry faced a “double whammy” of disruptions this year, following the recent volcanic ash fiasco and after snow-related cancellations early in the year, analysts said.
SpiceJet is five years old, expects higher growth
News Update 24th May 2010
Low-cost airline SpiceJet has completed five years of operations, and is expecting higher growth in the coming years.
Africa Needs to Invest in Aviation
News Update 24th May 2010
The report about the plane crash into Lake Victoria of the Russian Ilyushin shortly after take-off from Entebbe on March 9 raises the issue of Africa's air safety record.
Air France-KLM records record losses for 2009-2010
News Update 20th May 2010
French-Dutch carrier Air France-KLM said Wednesday that it had registered a record loss of 1.56 billion euros (1.92 billion dollars) for fiscal year 2009-2010 due to a drop in revenues caused by the economic crisis and a bad bet on fuel price changes.
MIT “Double Bubble” Plane Uses 70% Less Fuel
News Update 20th May 2010
Air travel is often hailed as the safest form of travel, and there is something to be said for getting where you need to go in a hurry. Of course, to cruise six miles or more above the Earth going hundreds of miles per hour requires high octane jet fuel. Lots and lots of it. A Boeing 747-8 can carry up to 64,000 gallons of jet fuel and, depending on how fast it flies, can burn through over three-thousand gallons of fuel per hour.
XAIC to set up airline in Anhui
News Update 19th May 2010
Xi'an Aircraft International Corporation (XAIC), a State-owned enterprise in Xi'an, China, plans to establish an airline in Anhui Province for aviation transportation and operation of the most recently approved aircraft Xinzhou 600, according to reports Wednesday.
Lufthansa receives first A380 superjumbo
News Update 19th May 2010
German airline Lufthansa on Wednesday celebrated the handover of its first “superjumbo” A380 jetliner, which manufacturer Airbus hopes will revolutionise long-distance air travel.
Saudia receives first Airbus A330
News Update 18th May 2010
Top aviation authorities and executives of international airlines were present in large numbers to accord a warm welcome to Saudi Arabian Airlines’ first long range Airbus aircraft A330 when it landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport shortly after 9 p.m. on Monday.
Boeing to pick up pace on 737s
News Update 18th May 2010
Another sign that the recession is easing: The Boeing Co. says it will start building 34 737 commercial jets per month – starting in early 2012.
Air India carries more passengers in April, May 2010
News Update 17th May 2010
National carrier Air India notched a 19.7 percent increase in passenger traffic last month and a similar trend continued during the first half of May as compared to the same period last year, an official said in Mumbai on Sunday.
Emirates Group marks record profit increase in 2009-10
News Update 17th May 2010
The Emirates Group has posted a record profit increase of 248 per cent, an outstanding result in a year fraught with worldwide market instability and economic uncertainty.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 18 out now!
Newswatch 14th May 2010
GACA says open-sky policy cause of row with Egypt
News Update 14th May 2010
The dispute between Saudi and Egyptian aviation authorities over airlines from both countries landing at their airports is a disagreement over the open sky policy, said GACA spokesman Khaled Al-Khaibari.
China Southern Asia’s biggest airline
News Update 13th May 2010
China Southern Airlines is now Asia’s largest carrier by passenger numbers after overtaking troubled Japan Airlines, according to figures provided by the two companies.
Jetstar penetrates the Asian market
News Update 13th May 2010
Jetstar Airlines will seek an expansion in the Asian market by offering long-overhaul flights out of Singapore to Australia, North Asia, and in European countries starting this year.
New airline, ServisAir starts flying in Angola
News Update 12th May 2010
ServisAir, a new Angolan airline, had its inaugural flight on Tuesday linking the cities of Luanda and Lubango in southern Angola and is soon due to start flying to other cities, the airline’s director general said in Lubango.
RBA Leases Six 777s From SIA
News Update 12th May 2010
Royal Brunei Airlines yesterday released details about its fleet renewal programme, announcing the agreement to lease six Boeing 777-200ER aircraft from Singapore Airlines.
FlyDubai to finally launch flights to India
News Update 11th May 2010
FlyDubai said on Tuesday it will start flights to Lucknow in India next month, almost a year after being forced to abort the launch of services to several Indian destinations due to concerns over competition with local airlines.
Batavia Air to serve Jeddah, add int’l routes
News Update 11th May 2010
Private airline Batavia Air is set to launch Jakarta-Jeddah-Riyadh service starting on May 23, and expects flights to be 80 percent full.
EasyJet April Load Factor Up; Earned Seats Flown Decline
News Update 7th May 2010
Low-cost airline easyJet announced Friday passenger statistics for the month of April 2010, reporting an increase of 1.1 percentage points in load factor, while the number of passengers traveled declined 7.6% from last year. The company noted that its monthly passenger statistics were impacted by a large number of cancellations, following the volcanic activity in the Eyjafjallajoekull area of Iceland.
Unions join to oppose Australian government's aviation white paper
News Update 6th May 2010
Aviation workers on Thursday joined together under a new union conglomeration to oppose elements of the Australian federal government's aviation white paper.
VN Airlines eyes short flights
News Update 6th May 2010
National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines is planning to launch more domestic flights by forming ties with cities and provinces nationwide.
Dubai freight volume to grow by 50%
News Update 5th May 2010
Dubai Airports on Tuesday projected almost 50 per cent growth in freight volume in the next five years, its chief executive Paul Griffiths said. Dubai World Central-Al Maktoum International, which opens next month, will play a vital role for the growth along with the existing Dubai International.
Taiwan to raise fuel surcharges on air travel
News Update 5th May 2010
The Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) has approved a request by Taiwan's carriers to increase fuel surcharges on international routes to help them offset an increase in aviation fuel prices.
Unions, shareholders can make bumpy road for United Continental Holding
News Update 4th May 2010
The new United Airlines will use the Continental Airlines logo on its planes, combining parts of both carriers as they try to market themselves as a bigger, better airline overseas.
Delta tops in ancillary fee intake
News Update 4th May 2010
Those extra fees added up for Delta Air Lines in the fourth quarter of 2009.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 16 out now!
Newswatch 30th April 2010
Air Namibia leases two Boeing aircraft to Fly Kumba
News Update 30th April 2010
Air Namibia is wet leasing two aeroplanes to Fly Kumba, a budget airliner servicing the Johannesburg Bulawayo route with three return flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
Chinese airlines eager to fly to eastern Taiwan
News Update 29th April 2010
Showing keen interest in operating direct chartered passenger flights between mainland cities and the eastern Taiwan counties of Hualien and Taitung, mainland Chinese airlines have applied for operating permits for as many as 51 such flights in May alone, more than 10 times the corresponding figure of only four flights by Taiwanese airlines, according to Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications.
Air NZ Virgin Blue tie-up has symmetry, says commentator
News Update 29th April 2010
An alliance between Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue in the trans-Tasman market has symmetry and will concern Qantas and its budget airline Jetstar, according to the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation.
Republic draws $348,000 fine for missed safety checks
News Update 28th April 2010
For the second time in a month, Indianapolis-based Republic Airways Holdings has been hit by the Federal Aviation Administration with a fine for failing to properly inspect its planes or make mandatory upgrades.
Southwest plans to boost Hub service, local staff
News Update 28th April 2010
Southwest Airlines will continue its aggressive expansion in Boston, with plans to add workers to accommodate the growth of nonstop flights here, which will have more than doubled by early September, a little more than a year since the carrier launched service at Logan International Airport.
Aero may be grounded over bank's desperate recovery of credit for aircraft purchase
News Update 26th April 2010
The desperation of bailed out banks to return to solvency is taking a crippling toll on airlines that had sourced credit for the acquisition of new aircraft which tough terms being handed down for the recovery of capital invested in fleet expansion.
Dubai Airport Show: Aviation industry picks up
News Update 26th April 2010
The aviation industry is showing signs of recovery and airport operators will continue investment plans as it is still a money-making business, the organiser of this year's Airport Show said on Sunday.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 15 out now!
Newswatch 23rd April 2010
Aerospace firm wins C919 deal
News Update 23rd April 2010
US Aerospace firm Hamilton Sundstrand said it has won a $1 billion long-term contract to provide the electric power generation and distribution systems for China's first single-aisle C919 aircraft, beating rivals including General Electric Co.
Dreamliner passes testing milestone
News Update 22nd April 2010
The Boeing Co.’s 787 Dreamliner appears to be on the final approach to approval.
Oil rises to over US$84 per barrel
News Update 22nd April 2010
World oil prices breached US$84 on Wednesday as European governments reopened their airspace to more flights following a shutdown caused by ash from an erupting volcano in Iceland.
Delta reports US$256-million 1-Q loss, sees 2-Q profit
News Update 21st April 2010
Heavy winter storms and one-time merger-related expenses and severance charges hurt Delta Air Lines Inc's results as the world's largest carrier reported yesterday that it lost US$256 million in the first quarter.
Cebu Air orders 7 more planes
News Update 21st April 2010
Budget carrier Cebu Air Inc. said Tuesday it has ordered seven more Airbus A320 aircraft to double its seat capacity over the next five years and to have 51 airplanes by 2014.
Time to phase out expat pilots extended: Praful Patel
News Update 20th April 2010
The government has extended the time-frame for phasing out foreign pilots employed by Indian carriers by one year, Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel today said.
Tibet Airlines to launch in May
News Update 20th April 2010
China prepares to launch its first airline based in south western Tibet - Tibet Airlines Co Ltd next month.
Sri Lanka's state-run budget carrier loses Rs930mn
News Update 19th April 2010
Sri Lanka's controversial state-run budget carrier Mihin Lanka lost 930 million rupees in 2009, despite support from the island's national carrier SriLankan, which itself made 12.2 billion rupees in operational losses, official data shows.
Etihad to commence services to Iraq
News Update 19th April 2010
Etihad Airways will commence flights from Abu Dhabi to Baghdad on April 26, subject to government and regulatory approvals, becoming the first airline in the UAE to fly to Iraq.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 14 out now!
Newswatch 16th April 2010
Rwandair Signs Leasing Agreement for Two Planes
News Update 16th April 2010
In a bid to expand its network, Rwanda's national carrier Rwandair on Wednesday signed a leasing agreement with the world's largest aircraft lessor General Electric Capital Aviation Services (GECAS).
4th ARJ21 plane makes maiden flight
News Update 15th April 2010
The fourth domestically-produced ARJ21-700 plane completed its maiden flight successfully in Shanghai on April 13. This was the last prototype aircraft in the ARJ21-700 project and the first model to be tested for simulating the performance of the future models that will be delivered.
Bombardier's CSeries has upped the ante for entire industry
News Update 15th April 2010
Say what you will about Bombardier Inc.'s project to build a large airliner, the CSeries, to compete with the giants of the aerospace world, no one can deny it has made the aviation industry sit up and take notice.
Macquarie buys aircraft leasing unit
News Update 14th April 2010
Macquarie Group will substantially boost its aircraft leasing arm with its banking arm to acquire a portfolio of 53 aircraft for $US1.99 billion from troubled US insurer American International Group.
Garuda to phase out 16 Boeing aircraft
News Update 14th April 2010
PT Garuda Indonesia plans to phase out 16 of its Boeing aircraft following its plan to increase its fleet until 116 by 2014.
Want window seat? Pay more
News Update 13th April 2010
No more nightmares about feeling cramped and suffocated when you have to take a longish domestic flight. Especially, if you are flying a low-cost airline.
IATA boss: airlines need more mergers
News Update 13th April 2010
Consolidation in the airline industry is essential to cut costs and improve competitiveness, according to Giovanni Bisignani, the director-general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Preparing for aircraft repossession: forewarned is forearmed. IBA advises the Irish aviation market on risk management.
Press Release 12th April 2010
Leading independent aviation consultancy, the International Bureau of Aviation, was in Dublin this week speaking at the Risk Management and Practical Solutions seminar organised by Aeropodium. The half day event, which took place on Thursday 8th April, gave delegates sound legal and practical advice on managing aircraft repossessions and the aftermath in terms of aircraft registration options.
IATA chief urges Japan to be China travel gateway
News Update 12th April 2010
The head of an international aviation group said Monday the only way for Japan's struggling airline industry to recover is to serve as a gateway to China and he urged reforms and cost-cutting.
Airlines did a better job for passengers in 2009
News Update 12th April 2010
Fewer passengers boarded planes last year, but those who did were generally treated better than in the past.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 13 out now!
Newswatch 9th April 2010
Spirit Airlines first in line to begin charging up to $45 for carry-on bags
News Update 9th April 2010
If you plan to take a carry-on bag on a Spirit Airlines flight this summer, you better carry some extra cash as well.
United, US Airways in 'advanced' talks to merge
News Update 8th April 2010
United Airlines is pondering a merger with US Airways, the third time the companies have attempted a tie-up over the past decade.
BA, Iberia sign tie-up deal
News Update 8th April 2010
British Airways and Spanish flag carrier Iberia on Thursday announced a merger deal to create one of the world's biggest airlines to compete more effectively in the fast-consolidating aviation sector.
SAA and Mango raided in collusion inquiry
News Update 7th April 2010
The Competition Commission raided the offices of South African Airways (SAA) and its sister airline, Mango — which together with other domestic airlines are under investigation for collusion — last week after it suspected the carriers were withholding vital information.
Lessors reject Paramount's fresh offer
News Update 7th April 2010
GE Aviation Service Ltd and Celestial Aviation Trading, the two British companies which leased out three aircraft to Paramount Airways, today rejected the airline’s offer to pay $1 million in 10 days to clear the arrears, claimed to be $10 million. They alleged that the airline had repeatedly reneged from its promise to pay the dues.
Sun Country airline files plan to exit bankruptcy
News Update 6th April 2010
Without a buyer in the wings, Sun Country Airlines took a significant step toward emerging from bankruptcy by filing a reorganization plan Monday in which its major creditors - including current owner Petters Aviation - become shareholders.
Jazz Air secures C$100M contract
News Update 6th April 2010
Jazz Air has accelerated efforts to diversify its business away from Air Canada by partnering with Thomas Cook to fly the tour company's customers to southern sun destinations beginning next fall.
Etihad More Flexible to Meet Challenges
News Update 1st April 2010
The global financial crisis was challenging for aviation industry across the world including Etihad Airways, the UAE's national airlines. However, Etihad is in a good position to with stand challenges, he said.
Skyservice airline shuts down
News Update 1st April 2010
SkyService Airlines has announced the shutdown of its operations Wednesday following the appointment of a receiver by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.
Pacific region offers 'friendly skies' for United Airlines
News Update 31st March 2010
United Airlines, the world's largest transpacific carrier, said it is seeing a "real recovery" across the Pacific region, especially in China, thanks to corporate customers' growing confidence in the world economic recovery.
Angolan Airlines Europe ban lifted
News Update 31st March 2010
The Angolan Airlines (TAAG) is now free to fly to any destination in the European Union space, following the lift of an Air Safety Committee ban of 2007, the minister of Transports, Augusto da Silva Tomas, announced Tuesday in Luanda.
Qatar Airways set to fly Argentina, Brazil
News Update 30th March 2010
Qatar Airways yesterday announced that it will begin daily flights to Brazil and Argentina from June 24 this year. This marks the airline's first online operations to South America.
China's civil aircraft industry to introduce overseas experts
News Update 30th March 2010
The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) began building an innovative enterprise incubation base in Beijing on March 29. The purpose of the base is to maximize use of advantageous resources and overseas experts, enhance research on advanced and basic civil aircraft technologies and strengthen domestic independent innovation, design and R&D capacities.
Ryanair threatens to leave Budapest
News Update 29th March 2010
Ryanair is considering cancelling its flights in and out of Budapest if it cannot offset the rising airport fees, regional sales director of the low-cost airline László Tamás said.
Government cancels operating license of low cost airline Viva Macau
News Update 29th March 2010
The Macau Civil Aviation Authority said Sunday it had cancelled the operating license of low cost long haul airline Viva Macau, which has been operating since 2006 and Friday suspended all its flights.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 12 out now!
Newswatch 26th March 2010
Lionhart buys four used A320 aircraft from Air Berlin
News Update 26th March 2010
The Canada-based company Lionhart Aviation Limited (Lionhart) has announced the purchase of four Airbus A320s from Air Berlin, Germany's second largest airline.
Wave of airline strikes hits Europe
News Update 25th March 2010
Holidaymakers across Europe should expect more chaos, as the strike held by British Airways (BA) staff continues and labour conflicts in other carriers. BA cabin crew had ended their strike at midnight on Monday, but plan to start the strike again this Saturday.
Subsidies 'gave Airbus an advantage'
News Update 25th March 2010
European governments unfairly financed the aircraft manufacturer Airbus in its battle against its US rival, Boeing, the World Trade Organisation has ruled.
IATA Chief Warns Overcapacity Remains Risk For Airlines
News Update 24th March 2010
The head of the International Air Transport Association warned on Wednesday that overcapacity remains a risk for the airline industry's recovery despite trimming its estimate of global losses this year.
News Update
Boeing Ramps up Production of 747,777 24th March 2010
The Boeing Co. plans to increase the production rate for its 777 and 747 airplanes, both built in Everett, to meet customer demand, the company said Friday.
AirAsia’s purchase of local airline stake legitimate: official
News Update 23rd March 2010
It was “quite impulsive” for national carrier Vietnam Airlines to say that Malaysian low-cost airline AirAsia was trying to take advantage of a legal loophole to enter the domestic market, an official has said.
Southwest Blasts Revised Slot Deal
News Update 23rd March 2010
Delta (DAL) and US Airways (LCC) have struck a new slot-swap deal intended to overcome regulators' objections to the deal they proposed in August.
Bulgaria's Lufthansa Technik Inks Deal with Oman Air
News Update 22nd March 2010
The Bulgarian subsidiary of German company Lufthansa Technik has sealed a deal for the maintenance and repairs of the planes in the fleet of Oman Air, flagship carrier of the sultanate of Oman, the company announced.
Saudia moves closer to IPO
News Update 22nd March 2010
Saudi Arabian Airlines has moved closer to floating its catering division and privatising its ground handling unit as the airline continues on a long process of privatisation announced in 2006.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 11 out now!
Newswatch 19th March 2010
Virgin America Eyes Flights To Toronto By Summer
News Update 19th March 2010
San Francisco-based Virgin American plans to make four daily flights to Toronto beginning June 2010. The flights to Toronto’s Pearson International Airport would consist of one daily nonstop flight and another daily through flight each from the Los Angeles International Airport and San Francisco international Airport.
CAAC: Over 450 Boeing 737 have potential safety hazards
News Update 18th March 2010
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) on March 15 ordered all domestic airlines to inspect Boeing 737 aircraft due to a potential safety hazard which could lead to loss of airplane control. It is believed that over 450 of the aircraft could have the problem.
Boeing 777s face software troubles
News Update 18th March 2010
American aviation regulator the Federal Aviation Administration on Tuesday ordered Boeing to fix a software problem in hundreds of 777 aircraft that could cause them to overrun the runway, AFP has reported.
Air Berlin Cuts $1.7Bn Boeing 787 Aircraft Order
News Update 17th March 2010
Germany's Air Berlin said Tuesday it agreed with airplane manufacturer Boeing Co to reduce the number of firm orders of 787 aircraft from 25 to 15 and reduce the number of optional 787 aircraft from 10 to 5.
EasyJet leads UK air traffic
News Update 17th March 2010
The latest industry statistics released by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have been welcomed by operators of EasyJet, who can now lay claim to being the UK’s largest airline. This represents the second consecutive year that EasyJet has been awarded the prestigious accolade by CAA.
Airbus A330s get safety mandate
News Update 16th March 2010
European regulators ordered airlines flying Airbus SAS A330s with Rolls-Royce Plc engines to take precautionary measures to cut the chances of ice building up in fuel systems and potentially leading to engine failure.
Two more jets begin 787, 747-8 test flights
News Update 16th March 2010
The Boeing Co. boosted both its 747-8 and 787 flight testing programs this weekend, putting two new jets in the air.
Kingfisher to launch 7 international routes this summer
News Update 15th March 2010
India's second largest private carrier Kingfisher Airlines will launch seven international routes this summer, which include a daily non-stop flight between New Delhi and London starting March 28 and one between New Delhi and Hong Kong beginning April 7.
PAL expects slightly lower revenues
News Update 15th March 2010
Flag carrier Philippine Airlines expects lower revenues in fiscal year ending this month due to a drop in international passengers.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 10 out now!
Newswatch 12th March 2010
Estonian Air not amused by airBaltic's plans
News Update 12th March 2010
The plan of Latvian national airline airBaltic to become a major competitor for Estonian Air and set up a base in Tallinn is controversial and non-functional, according to Rauno Parras, vice president of commercial affairs in Estonian Air.
Low-cost traffic soars 54%
News Update 11th March 2010
Despite a global slowdown, low-cost carrier passenger traffic at Changi Airport hit 7.1 million last year, a 54 per cent jump compared to 2008. By contrast, full-service carriers like Singapore Airlines carried just 30.1 million passengers, a 9 per cent drop over a year earlier.
Airline launched by 'baby Branson' grounded one week after take-off
News Update 11th March 2010
A second airline launched by the so-called "baby Branson" has been forced to suspend flights after only one week, because it allegedly failed to pay aircraft bills.
Delta talking to other carriers about alliances
News Update 10th March 2010
Delta Air Lines Inc., still smarting from its failed bid to lure Japan Airlines into a partnership, is talking to other carriers about expanding its global alliances, a senior executive said Tuesday without giving specifics.
Airline's cash pile halved after €81m operating loss in 2009
News Update 10th March 2010
A trading update from Aer Lingus yesterday shows that it continues to burn through its cash pile at a fast rate.
EADS posts $1.46b loss
News Update 9th March 2010
Airbus parent, the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), recorded a full-year loss of 763 million euros last year, reversing a 1.57 billion euros profit in 2008, because of cost overruns on two major projects.
US Airways fined for violation of price advertising rules
News Update 9th March 2010
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on Monday assessed a 40,000-dollar civil penalty against US Airways for violating rules that require airline price advertisements to disclose the full price consumers must pay for air transportation.
China to expand aircraft fleet
News Update 8th March 2010
China's airlines plan to buy 218 planes this year to help meet an expected surge in demand for air travel in the coming years, state media reported on Monday.
Airbus logs zero orders in February
News Update 8th March 2010
European plane maker Airbus has fallen behind its US rival Boeing in orders for aircraft this year and received no new orders at all in February, figures published by the companies on Friday showed.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 9 out now!
Newswatch 5th March 2010
Four new airlines awaiting license for international
News Update 5th March 2010
Four airlines have applied at the Nepalese Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation to operate international flights.
Airlines seek roll back of service taxes
News Update 4th March 2010
Chief executives of airlines Wednesday met Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel and pleaded that the government should roll back the service tax on all classes on domestic and international flights proposed in the Budget.
Sri Lanka to buy six transport aircraft from China: report
News Update 4th March 2010
Sri Lanka is buying six Xian MA60 turboprop powered aircraft for a state-run airline and air force, from China, a media report said.
IBA appointed as exclusive sales agent for former FlyGlobespan assets.
Press Release 3rd March 2010
The Joint Administrators of The Globespan Group plc have appointed the International Bureau of Aviation (IBA) as the exclusive sales agent for a range of aviation assets formerly the property of FlyGlobespan. These include a B737-600 aircraft and an inventory of spare parts.
Vietnam Air to launch more Japan flights, Myanmar service
News Update 3rd March 2010
The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines will increase flights to Japan in the coming period to meet rising tourist demand, according to spokesman Le Hoang Dung.
Preliminary design for China's jumbo jet to start in 2010
News Update 3rd March 2010
Preliminary design of China's jumbo jet program will be launched in 2010, said the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) at a press conference March 2.
Flydubai Doubles GCC Network
News Update 2nd March 2010
Flydubai, Dubai's first low cost airline, has announced a brace of GCC routes to kick off what is set to be a very busy year of route announcements for the carrier.
Wizz Air objects to Malév bail-out
News Update 2nd March 2010
Budget airline Wizz Air has said it will go to the European courts to dispute the Hungarian state bail-out of the former state airline Malév, arguing that it violates EU competition law.
SIA Airbus on more routes
News Update 1st March 2010
Singapore Airlines will soon operate its new Airbus 330-300 aircraft, which comes with the carrier's latest product and service offerings, on selected routes serving the Middle East, West Asia and North Asia.
747-8 Freighter’s first flight a new milestone
News Update 1st March 2010
The Boeing Co.’s new 747-8 Freighter successfully took to the sky from Paine Field for the first time Feb. 8, marking a new milestone in the plane’s journey from concept to competing in the global transport market.
Newswatch 2010 Issue 8 out now!
Newswatch 26th February 2010
Price ceiling lifted for local flights
News Update 26th February 2010
Airfares for domestic air routes will increase by VND100,000-VND180,000 starting March 1, according to a recent decision of the Ministry of Finance.
IBA Completes the Sale of Two AW139 Helicopters, Despite Tough Market.
IBA Group Limited 26th February 2010
For Sale: 2002 Embraer Legacy - MSN: 145505
IBA Group Limited 26th February 2010
Bombardier sees demand taking off in India, China
News Update 24th February 2010
It is no longer the US market that drives the demand for business jets, but it's the demand from the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) that has changed the face of the business jet market.
Boeing’s 787 Loses Engine Thrust On Test Flight
News Update 24th February 2010
Randy Tinseth, Vice President, marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes stated on “Randy's Journal” “The first 787 - ZA001 returned from Moses Lake Sunday morning after landing there on Friday. "Our flight test pilots had touched down at the Grant County International Airport after they experienced an uncommanded loss of thrust in one of the engines. It was an opportunity to really see the best of Boeing kick into gear. Teaming with Rolls-Royce, we determined that the issue had to do with a pressure-sensing component within the engine"