Wisk Aero, a Boeing subsidiary, has successfully completed the first flight of its Generation 6 aircraft, bringing autonomous air taxis closer to commercial reality. According to AeroTime, Wisk's achievement marks a significant industry milestone in autonomous passenger air taxi development.
Wisk Aero has completed assembling its sixth-generation air taxi, marking the transition from building to flight-testing. According to Wisk, this marks the beginning of the next phase in proving the aircraft's abilities in the air.
The US Army has expanded its Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) effort through a series of experiments designed to test new technologies before a culminating exercise. In 2026, smaller-scale experiments for one prototype and testing with an entire division will take place.
Vueling, part of International Airlines Group (IAG), has unveiled its 'Rumbo 2035' strategic roadmap, aiming to increase annual passengers to 60 million by 2035. The airline plans to invest €5 billion in fleet renewal and modernization, transitioning from an all-Airbus fleet to Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
Virgin Australia is launching its first-ever international service from Canberra with direct flights to Bali starting June 22, 2026. The airline will operate three weekly return flights using Boeing 737-800 aircraft, adding over 40,000 seats annually between the two cities.
Vietnam Airlines has finalized its first Boeing single-aisle aircraft order for 50 737 MAX (737-8) jets, supporting its expansion of domestic and regional network amid rising travel demand across Southeast Asia. The airline currently operates 17 787 Dreamliners and aims to become a five-star international airline by 2030.
Vietnam Airlines is launching direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Copenhagen starting December 15, 2025, establishing Vietnam's first air bridge to Scandinavia. Operating three times weekly on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, the route eliminates the need for stopovers in Tokyo, Bangkok, or Middle Eastern hubs that have historically complicated travel between the regions.
Vietjet Thailand has received its first Boeing 737-8 aircraft at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport, marking a pivotal moment in the low-cost carrier's ambitious $32 billion fleet expansion across the Asia-Pacific region. The delivery, which took place on November 22, 2025, is the first of 50 Boeing 737-8 aircraft planned for the Thai subsidiary's fleet.
Vietjet completes delivery of 22 aircraft in historic fleet expansion before year-end, positioning the Vietnamese budget carrier for accelerated growth across Southeast Asia. The milestone includes Airbus A321neo jets, Boeing aircraft for regional operations, and COMAC planes for domestic routes.
The US Air Force has released unprecedented operational details about an F-35A deployment that escorted B-2 Spirit bombers deep into Iranian airspace during June 2025's Operation Midnight Hammer. The 34th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, composed of active-duty and Reserve pilots from Hill Air Force Base, penetrated enemy defenses to suppress air-defense systems before bomber strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress has completed its ferry flight following the installation of a new active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar at Boeing's San Antonio facility. The aircraft flew to Edwards Air Force Base, California, on December 8, 2025, Breaking Defense reports.
President Donald Trump announced plans to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant shift in American defense policy in the Middle East. The planned sale comes on the eve of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to the White House.
A US-based aviation safety advocacy group has submitted materials to the US Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations regarding concerns about aircraft safety oversight and Boeing's internal reporting practices. The group alleges a pattern of recurring electrical and systems issues with the crashed Air India 787, registered VT-ANB.
The US military is quietly reviving airfields first carved out of jungle and coral during World War 2 to counter potential threats from China. The effort, driven by the Agile Combat Employment doctrine, aims to create a network of smaller, far-flung locations where US aircraft can operate from, reducing vulnerability in a war defined by long-range precision weapons.
A US Navy F-35C fighter jet shot down an Iranian Shahed-139 drone near the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea on Tuesday. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vessels and a Mohajer drone approaching a US-flagged commercial tanker hours later.
Congress has introduced a bipartisan bill designed to ensure US air traffic controllers receive pay during any future government shutdowns. The Aviation Funding Solvency Act draws from a rarely used $2.
The US State Department announced two large-scale military aid packages worth almost $15.7 billion for Israel and Saudi Arabia. The deals include significant orders of AH-64E Apache helicopters, Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, and PAC-3 Patriot missile interceptors.
The US State Department has approved a potential sale of almost $6.7 billion in new weapons for Israel, including large orders of AH-64E Apache helicopters and Joint Light Tactical Vehicles. The announcement, made late Friday evening, is broken into four Foreign Military Sales cases and includes an estimated cost of up to $3.
The US Army has selected Bell, Boeing, and Sikorsky to compete for a new rotary-wing training program worth up to $500 million. Training will cover 1,200 pilots annually starting in 2027, representing a significant expansion of Army aviation training capacity.
The US Army has selected three major defense contractors to compete for a new rotary-wing training program worth up to $500 million. Bell, Boeing, and Sikorsky will advance to the next phase of competition, Breaking Defense reports.
The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Singapore for up to four P-8A Poseidon aircraft, valued at $2.316 billion. The Boeing P-8 Poseidon is a multi-role maritime patrol aircraft that would significantly expand Singapore's long-range maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
The United States has approved the sale of up to three Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to NATO ally Denmark, valued at an estimated $1.8 billion. According to AeroTime, the State Department made a determination approving a possible foreign military sale on December 29, 2025.
The US Air Force has officially received its first Boeing-Saab T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer aircraft at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, marking a pivotal modernization milestone for pilot training. The sophisticated aircraft replaces the aging T-38C Talon and will prepare aviators for fourth, fifth, and sixth-generation fighter and bomber operations.
The US Air Force has announced the acquisition of two additional Boeing 747-8 aircraft for approximately $400 million. The purchase supports training and sustainment for the future presidential airlift fleet as delays continue to push back delivery of the next-generation Air Force One aircraft.
UPS has fully retired its McDonnell Douglas MD-11F freighter fleet, bringing an end to decades of trijet cargo operations after a fatal crash in 2025. In its fourth-quarter earnings report, UPS confirmed the retirement of all 26 MD-11Fs it still owned.
United Airlines reported record revenue in 2025, driven by strong demand from premium travelers and growth in higher-yield segments. CEO Scott Kirby credited 'brand-loyal customers' for the success.
A United Airlines Boeing 777-200 experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff on December 13, 2025, and returned safely to Washington Dulles International Airport. According to AeroTime, a piece of the engine cover separated and caught fire, sparking a brush fire on airport grounds.
United Airlines has agreed a purchase and leaseback deal with SMBC Aviation Capital over 20 Boeing 737 MAX 9s, set to arrive by the end of 2026. This latest agreement follows previous deals covering Airbus A321neo and Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets.
AeroTime reports that Turkish Airlines' successful subsidiary, Turkish Technic, has managed to establish itself as one of the world's fastest-growing and most capable maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) providers. The company supports the expansion of Turkish Airlines Inc.
Turkish Airlines announced record profits of $1.1 billion for the third quarter of 2025, driven by strong demand and favorable capacity. Despite softening yields and ongoing cost pressures, the airline maintained its commitment to long-term success.
President Donald Trump has issued a warning to defense firms about limits on share repurchases and executive compensation, citing concerns over investments in modernizing weapons production facilities. The move comes as the administration plans to issue an executive order targeting defense company share buybacks, dividends, and executive compensation.
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order for a new 'America First Arms Transfer Strategy', aiming to prioritize American production and defense spending in arms exports. The policy centers around three prongs: creating clear direction, establishing criteria, and streamlining processes.
President Trump used his speech at the World Economic Forum to pressure defense giants to accelerate production of weapons. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Qatar's Boeing 747, intended as an interim Air Force One, could take flight this summer.
President Trump's Air Force One flight was forced to make an unscheduled landing at Joint Base Andrews after a minor electrical issue was identified shortly after takeoff. According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the crew opted to return 'out of an abundance of caution' due to some cabin lights temporarily going out during departure.
US President Donald Trump helped secure commercial aircraft orders from three Central Asian airlines at the C5+1 Summit in Washington DC. Air Astana agreed to purchase up to 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, while Somon Air committed to place its largest-ever order for Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets and 787-9s.
US President Donald Trump called for immediate negotiations to acquire Greenland from Denmark, citing national security and strategic interests. Trump emphasized the importance of protecting the island and developing its resources, while also questioning the strength of NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause.
The Aerospace Industries Association has urged the Trump administration to make more aggressive changes to the federal acquisition process. The organization argues that current requirements for cost and pricing data are overly burdensome and lead to companies choosing not to work with the government.
The Indo-Pacific theater is rapidly evolving into the world's most technologically advanced military battleground. As peer competitors advance their capabilities, US forces face critical readiness gaps.
TAAG Angola Airlines has partnered with Lufthansa Consulting to overhaul its processes, while also signing an agreement with Boeing to expand competency-based training programs for pilots. The carrier has welcomed its fourth B787-9 and added a new Airbus A220 aircraft to its fleet as part of its modernization efforts.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways has ordered up to 40 Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets to serve as its backbone fleet. The deal marks the largest Boeing widebody order in Vietnamese history, with Sun Group aiming to expand its fleet to 100 aircraft by 2030.
The Space Force has announced plans to accelerate its Airborne Moving Target Indicator (AMTI) program, which aims to track airborne targets using space-based sensors. The program received a $2 billion funding boost in FY26, pending approval.
Southwest Airlines plans to add SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service across its fleet starting in summer 2026. The airline aims to provide seamless connectivity for customers, similar to an at-home experience.
The US government has approved a potential Foreign Military Sales case for Singapore to buy the Boeing P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft in a deal worth potentially over $2.3 billion. The approval includes right MK 54 lightweight torpedoes and other associated equipment, according to Breaking Defense reports.
AeroTime spoke with Alan Lim, Director of Alton Aviation, about industry trends at Singapore Airshow 2026. Airlines have placed orders to support fleet plans, resulting in a combined backlog of over 70,000 aircraft.
Singapore has announced plans to acquire three Gulfstream maritime surveillance aircraft based on the G550 business jet, with Defense Minister Chan Chun Sing citing the need for enhanced capabilities in the maritime domain. The acquisition is part of a broader effort to strengthen Singapore's defenses amid rising tensions in Southeast Asia.
Silk Way West Airlines has increased its order with Airbus for four A350F freighters, bringing its total commitment to six aircraft. The airline plans to deliver the first A350Fs over 2027-2028.
The Senate has passed the fiscal 2026 defense authorization bill, which authorizes $900.6 billion in defense funds and includes major acquisition reform provisions. The bill was passed on a bipartisan basis and is expected to be signed by President Trump.
Saudia has introduced its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with a new, distinctive livery as part of efforts to encourage visitors to Saudi Arabia. In collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority, the aircraft features a 'Saudi, Welcome to Arabia' design.
Saudi flag carrier Saudia is reportedly exploring a major aircraft order from Boeing and Airbus, potentially including up to 150 jets for passenger and cargo operations. According to industry analysts, this deal would support fleet upgrades and network growth, aligning with a broader trend among Middle Eastern airlines.
The World Defense Show (WDS) 2026 took place at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center, attracting 1,400 companies from 89 countries. Saudi Arabia aims to become a major aerospace industrial hub by 2030, with the percentage of localized work growing from 4% in 2018 to nearly 25% in 2024.
SAS Scandinavia Airlines is exploring a potential widebody order with Boeing and Airbus, according to Bloomberg. CEO Anko van der Werff has hinted at a large order to meet growing demand for long-haul travel.
Samaritan's Purse has retired its last US-registered DC-8, marking a significant chapter in humanitarian aviation. The organization held a decommissioning ceremony on November 14, 2025, at its Airlift Response Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, where it formally parked the DC-8 for the final time and dedicated the Boeing 767.
Saab is developing AR3, an AI-assisted after-action review platform designed to provide real-time performance feedback to warfighters during training exercises. The minimum viable product will launch in Q2 2026, leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze vast amounts of training data from exercise control systems, sensors, and GPS devices.
Saab CEO Micael Johansson shared detailed information with Canada about its Gripen E/F fighter jets as part of a 'dual fleet' pitch. The initiative aims to capitalize on US-Canada tensions and offers domestic production to sweeten the deal.
Royal Air Maroc has signed a long-term lease agreement with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) for 13 new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, scheduled to be delivered in 2027. The airline aims to enhance its flexibility and connectivity between Africa, Europe, and beyond.
Rolls-Royce has completed key tests for its F130 engine as part of the US Air Force's B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program. The company evaluated engine performance under representative mission conditions at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex in Tullahoma, Tennessee.
Riyadh Air has welcomed its third Boeing 787 Dreamliner as it prepares to launch its first commercial flights. The aircraft is part of the airline's fleet of 60 Airbus A321neo, 25 A350-1000, and 39 787-9 Dreamliners.
Riyadh Air has completed its first test flight on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner at Boeing's Charleston facility in South Carolina. The aircraft took off as part of standard certification procedures, marking an important step towards operational readiness for the Middle Eastern carrier.
ForeFlight has faced reports of mass layoffs amid restructuring, sparking concern among pilots. The platform's widespread adoption is attributed to its intuitive interface, integrated weather and navigation data, and continuous feature updates.
The Federal Air Transport Agency has approved a modified Tu-214 with domestic-made systems and components, which will enable serial production and delivery to Russian airlines. Eight planes will be built in 2026, followed by 12 in 2027, and then from 2028 production will rise to 20 per year.
The US Army has selected Rafael, Lockheed Martin, and the Boeing-Anduril team for Phase I of the second Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) interceptor program. The program aims to develop a more capable second interceptor to target lower flying, supersonic cruise missiles.
The US Air Force has accepted a donated 747 jetliner from Qatar to serve as an interim Air Force One, amid delays for Boeing-modified jets. The aircraft was accepted in May and modifications began in September.
Qatar Airways unveiled a Formula 1-themed Boeing 777 livery designed by Grammy-winning artist Swizz Beatz during the Qatar Grand Prix weekend. The aircraft, featuring innovative design elements, completed a celebratory flypast over Lusail International Circuit before embarking on a winter tour of major global destinations including London, Melbourne, New York, and Tokyo.
Qantas has introduced 'Economy Plus', a new cabin product offering more legroom and perks on domestic and short-haul international routes. Available on A321XLR, A220, and Boeing 737 aircraft, Economy Plus will be available for purchase or selection by frequent flyers starting February 2026.
Poland has finalized a landmark $4.7 billion purchase of 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing, marking the largest order for the aircraft outside the United States. The deal, executed through a US Foreign Military Sales contract, represents a significant expansion of Poland's defense capabilities amid regional security concerns.
The Air Line Pilots Association has defended its safety record amid a new mandate from the Trump administration to 'purge DEI from our skies'. The US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy ordered a new mandatory 'Operations Specification' requiring all commercial airlines to formally commit to merit-based hiring for pilots.
The Empire Test Pilots' School is a leading training centre for test pilots, operated by QinetiQ in Boscombe Down. The PC-21 is an integral part of the training provided to students from all over the world.
Congress has unveiled a $839 billion bipartisan defense spending package for fiscal 2026, Breaking Defense reports. The proposal includes funding for Army helicopter training programs and satellite upgrades, as well as other initiatives.
The Pentagon has created a new role for managing the Air Force's next-gen bomber, fighter, and ICBM programs, with Lt. Gen.
Oman Air has taken delivery of a new Boeing 737 MAX-8, marking another milestone in its fleet modernisation journey. The aircraft is expected to support short and medium-haul operations, bringing enhanced efficiency and advanced technology.
The New York Times reports that the US used a secret aircraft to carry out a precision strike at sea in the Caribbean. Citing officials briefed on the mission, the NYT says the aircraft was painted to look like a civilian plane and had no external weapons visible on the wings.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released its preliminary report on November 20, 2025, providing the clearest picture yet of what may have caused the crash of UPS Flight 2976. The investigation reveals that the left engine and pylon were torn from the wing during the takeoff rotation, vaulting up and over the fuselage as the trijet lifted off.
The National Transportation Safety Board has released an updated investigative report into the crash of UPS Airlines Flight 2976, revealing that engine and pylon separation occurred shortly after takeoff. The NTSB found fatigue cracking in components associated with the left engine pylon attachment, which led to structural failure.
The Air Force awarded Boeing the Next Generation Air Dominance sixth-generation fighter contract, citing the need to counter new threats posed by China. The selection comes after a year marked by significant changes in the Air Force's leadership and priorities.
Navy Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle is pressing for an expedited decision on the F/A-XX next-generation fighter program, citing the extended timeline required for development, testing, and fielding.
Navy investigation reports on the Harry S. Truman carrier strike group's recent deployment reveal systemic training deficiencies and command failures contributed to multiple serious incidents, including friendly fire near-misses, collisions with commercial vessels, and two F/A-18 losses during Red Sea operations against Houthi forces.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence has jointly ended the acquisition of six Boeing E-7 Wedgetail Airborne Warning & Control System (AWACS) aircraft with several NATO partner countries due to loss of strategic and financial foundations. The decision comes amid cost and survivability concerns, as well as the US Air Force's withdrawal from the Wedgetail effort.
A NASA F-15B testbed jet is conducting high-speed taxi tests with a CATNLF fin, aiming to increase laminar flow and reduce drag. According to AeroTime, this technology could lead to significant fuel savings for Boeing 777 aircraft.
The US Missile Defense Agency has selected 1,014 companies for the SHIELD contract vehicle, a $151 billion procurement channel supporting the Golden Dome missile defense initiative. Selected from 2,463 proposals, these firms will compete for task orders spanning research, development, production, and sustainment through 2035.
Malaysia Aviation Group announced that its long-serving Group Managing Director, Izham Ismail, will retire at the start of 2026 after nearly five decades with the company. Captain Nasaruddin Bakar has been named as the incoming Group CEO and President, bringing over 30 years of experience to the role.
Lufthansa has taken delivery of a Boeing 787-9 with a special centenary livery, featuring dark blue fuselage and white crane symbol. The airline plans to paint five more aircraft in this design throughout 2026.
Lufthansa has confirmed that 25 of 28 Allegris business seats on its Boeing 787-9 fleet are now available for booking, following a breakthrough in the US certification process. The airline's CEO noted that this milestone is great news for customers, who have already enjoyed over one million Allegris experiences since Summer 2024.
LOT Polish Airlines has taken delivery of three brand new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets, which departed Seattle for Warsaw in formation flight. The aircraft feature a modern cabin interior inspired by Poland's landscape and aesthetics.
LOT Polish Airlines has announced an expansion to its presence in North America by launching a new route between Warsaw and San Francisco in May 2026. The airline will operate four weekly services using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
Lockheed Martin has successfully tested an artificial intelligence feature on its F-35 Lightning fighter, designed to quickly identify unknown contacts for pilots. The system uses machine learning to resolve ID ambiguities and improve situational awareness.
A federal judge in Texas has dismissed the US government's criminal case against Boeing over two 737 MAX crashes that killed 346 people. The decision comes after a revised agreement was reached between the Justice Department and Boeing, which includes fines, compensation for victims' families, and internal safety reforms.
Joramco has entered into a five-year agreement with Condor for heavy maintenance services across the German carrier's all-Airbus fleet, Breaking Defense reports. The partnership, announced on February 4, 2026, will see the engineering arm of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise provide base maintenance checks on Condor's aircraft, including the Airbus A320ceo, A320neo, and A330neo.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman has criticized both Boeing and the agency itself for the failed Starliner mission, which stranded a crew in orbit for months. The investigation report highlights issues with propulsion systems, qualification work, leadership, and culture that contributed to the failure.
India's civil aviation regulator has cleared the fuel control switch design on Boeing 787 Dreamliners after a pilot report raised safety concerns. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) found no systemic defect in the switches, and Air India confirmed that a subsequent fleet-wide re-inspection of fuel switches found no defects.
The Department of Defense Inspector General has concluded that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth created operational security risks by sharing sensitive military information over an unsecured Signal messaging app during Houthi strike operations earlier this year. The report found that Hegseth sent nonpublic DoD information identifying aircraft quantities and strike times to hostile territory approximately 2-4 hours before execution.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh criticized the EU's Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandates as failing to address the root causes of delays and sustainability challenges. The industry is facing significant hurdles in meeting ambitious climate targets due to supply scarcity and rising prices.
Gulf Air has finalized its order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for three more, following negotiations undertaken earlier this year. The deal was signed on November 18, 2025, at the Dubai Airshow 2025.
The head of Greece's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has submitted his resignation following an investigation into a January air traffic radio blackout. The investigation found that a 'digital noise' caused the outage, which affected almost all frequencies of the Athens Flight Information Region (FIR).
The Pentagon is accelerating work on the Golden Dome nationwide missile-defense architecture, with industry bracing for an initiative reminiscent of the Manhattan Project. Honeywell Aerospace has positioned itself as a strategic supplier across all four tiers of the emerging architecture, bringing decades of experience in guidance, navigation, and space-flight controls to support the primes now shaping the program.
Gol Linhas Aéreas has appointed Antonio Kandir as interim chairman following the death of founder Constantino de Oliveira Junior, who passed away on January 24, 2026, after a battle with cancer. Breaking Defense reports that Kandir, previously vice chairman of Gol's board, will lead the board's work while the company evaluates longer-term governance arrangements.
Germany's fast-track strike drone hunt has slowed as the Luftwaffe shortlist takes shape. The procurement effort has gained an extra review round involving three candidates for further evaluation.
France has finalized a $1.3 billion USD contract with Saab to purchase two GlobalEye radar planes. The deal marks the second export customer for the aircraft, following the UAE's fleet of five.
flydubai has entered into a partnership with SpaceX to implement Starlink in-flight internet across its entire fleet starting from 2026. The airline will deploy high-speed, low-latency broadband internet on its Boeing 737 aircraft, enhancing the onboard experience for passengers.
flydubai has signed a MoU with Boeing for 75 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, with options for 75 more, during the Dubai Airshow 2025. The agreement is valued at around $13 billion and reinforces the airline's partnership with the US manufacturer as it accelerates its growth strategy.
flydubai has selected GE Aerospace's GEnx-1B engine to power its upcoming fleet of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The deal includes spare engines and a long-term services agreement, covering two-thirds of all Boeing 787 aircraft currently in operation.
flydubai has reported a record revenue of AED 13.6 billion (US$ 3.7 billion) for 2025, with a 6% increase from the previous year. The airline carried 15.
flydubai has ordered up to 150 Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking the airline's first Airbus purchase in history. The agreement complements flydubai's existing Boeing backlog and is seen as a key milestone in Dubai's economic and aviation development plans.
flydubai has placed orders for 150 Airbus A321neo aircraft and 75 Boeing B737 MAX units, according to AeroTime. CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith outlined key factors behind these orders, citing the A321neo's ability to offer more seats and flight time compared to its competitors.
flydubai has officially launched its first direct service from Vilnius, Lithuania, to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant expansion into the Baltic region. The airline's CEO, Jeyhun Efendi, cited higher market demand and improved product offerings as key factors in the successful launch.
Argentine low-cost carrier Flybondi has announced a landmark $1.7 billion aircraft order, committing to 15 Airbus A220-300s and 10 Boeing 737 MAX 10s, with options for additional aircraft. The order marks Flybondi's expansion strategy across Latin America and positions the airline as the first regional operator of the A220-300.
The first of four MC-55A Peregrine surveillance jets has arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, based on the Gulfstream G550 business jet. The aircraft is heavily modified for airborne surveillance and electronic warfare by L3Harris, according to a joint media release issued by Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles and Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy.
Firefly Aerospace has appointed Ramon Sanchez as Chief Operating Officer, effective December 22. Sanchez joins from Boeing with over two decades of experience in production operations for commercial, civil, and national security programs.
Firefly Aerospace, Inc., an end-to-end space transportation company, and Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company small satellite constellation prime, have entered the hot standby phase for VICTUS NOX, a Tactically Responsive Space mission led by Space Systems Command's Space Safari Program Office. The team stands ready for the 24-hour callup and orbit requirements to complete final operations and launch at the first available window.
Fiji Airways has announced the launch of direct flights between Gold Coast Airport and Nadi International Airport, set to begin June 11, 2026. The new service marks a significant expansion of the airline's Australian network, with three weekly flights operating on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
FedEx plans to resume MD-11 operations by late May 2026, working with Boeing and the FAA to address required inspection and maintenance actions. This comes after UPS retired its entire MD-11 fleet following a fatal crash in November 2025.
The Federal Aviation Administration has started reviewing Boeing’s redesigned alerting system for the 737 MAX 10, as mandated by Congress. This comes amid ongoing delays in certifying both the MAX 7 and MAX 10.
The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed new rules requiring US aircraft operators to replace or upgrade radio altimeters due to potential interference with wireless carriers' services in the Upper C-band. The estimated cost is about $4.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an emergency airworthiness directive grounding all McDonnell Douglas MD-11 and MD-11F aircraft pending structural inspections following the fatal UPS crash in Louisville. The order, issued as Emergency Airworthability Directive 2025-23-51, comes after UPS Flight 2976 crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, killing 14 people.
The Federal Aviation Administration has issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive for all MD-10 and DC-10 aircraft following the recent UPS MD-11 crash in Louisville, Kentucky. The directive requires inspection and repairs due to similarities with the UPS MD-11 model.
The Federal Aviation Administration has cleared Boeing's 737 MAX 10 to begin the second phase of flight testing as part of its Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) process. The move expands the scope of testing to include avionics, propulsion systems, and other critical systems.
F-35A fighters have successfully completed pivotal ground integration tests with the European Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile at Edwards Air Force Base. The validation of hardware responses, fit checks, and vibration testing marks a critical milestone before airborne trials commence.
Ethiopian Airlines has placed an order for nine additional Boeing 787-9 aircraft, according to an announcement by the US manufacturer. This follows a previous order of 11 787s and 20 737 MAX from Boeing at the 2023 Dubai Airshow.
Ethiopian Airlines has exercised an option from a previous Boeing order and purchased 11 additional Boeing 737 MAX jets at Dubai Airshow 2025. The airline is expanding its regional and international networks with the new aircraft, which will help support its growth plans.
Ethiopian Airlines has secured multiple aircraft deals at Dubai Airshow, including the acquisition of more Airbus A350 widebodies and the leasing of two ATR 72-600 aircraft to Congo's national carrier Air Congo. The airline also ordered six A350-900s directly with Airbus and signed an agreement with Collins Aerospace for premium business class seating solutions across its fleet.
Emirates has placed a significant follow-on order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, valued at US$38 billion at list prices. This expands the Dubai carrier's position as the world's largest Boeing 777 operator and biggest customer of the GE9X engine.
Emirates has announced plans to add a second daily flight from Dubai to Tokyo Narita, starting May 1, 2026. The new service will operate using a retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER and offer passengers more options for multi-destination travel.
Emirates has announced a third daily flight between Dubai and Nairobi, commencing March 1, 2026. The new service complements existing scheduled flights and will provide multiple connection possibilities via Dubai International Airport.
El Al has announced its first major route expansion since October 2023, adding nine new destinations across Asia and Europe. The expansion will increase the airline's network to a record 60 destinations, with three new Asian routes marking the airline's strongest focus on leisure travel in recent years.
AeroTime will cover all the latest news and breaking stories from Dubai Airshow 2025. The event is expected to feature large commercial aircraft orders, with Etihad Airways, Emirates, and Flydubai among those rumored to place deals.
AeroTime reports on Day 3 of Dubai Airshow 2025, where Airbus and Boeing secured major commercial aircraft orders. Emirates ordered eight more A350-900s, while Buraq Air selected the A320neo family for its first jet-type.
The Dubai Airshow 2025 opened with major commercial orders and aircraft announcements from top carriers. Emirates made an early move by committing to 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, while Helvetic Airways and Air Côte d'Ivoire signed deals for Embraer E195-E2 jets.
The 2025 Dubai Airshow closed with Airbus leading in total commitments, driven by Gulf and African carriers. Boeing secured the largest single deal with Emirates' new widebody purchase, while regional manufacturers like Embraer and De Havilland Canada secured strategic wins.
The Defense Innovation Unit is seeking firms that can supply drones capable of carrying fighter-sized munitions for maritime strikes. The initiative aims to address the growing threat of anti-ship weapons and constraints on long-range strike capabilities for naval forces.
Delta Air Lines has placed an order for up to 60 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, marking the first time the airline has ordered this model. The announcement comes as Delta reported a record $63.
The World Defense Show will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, featuring a diverse range of exhibitors including Saudi Arabian Military Industries, AIC Steel, China, Russia, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, L3Harris, and many others. The event is expected to include product demonstrations, announcements, and partnerships, with a focus on regional security and defense capabilities.
Breaking Defense reports that seven major defense contractors generated $21.2 billion in free cash flow in 2024, with RTX issuing the most in dividends at $3.2 billion. The data suggests that these companies are prioritizing shareholder returns over investments in production lines, which could impact the president's demands for increased production capacity.
For the September-October-November 2025 issue, Dassault Aviation's 'Planète Aéro' magazine focuses on defense and innovation, with the Rafale as its central theme. The French Defense Procurement Agency introduces a feature on innovation in defense, while other major topics include record sales for the Airbus A320 and the withdrawal of Boeing C-135s from the French Air and Space Force fleet.
Coulson Aviation USA has announced its support for the Boeing 767 Very Large Airtanker (VLAT) program, aiming to find a sustainable replacement for legacy platforms. The company highlighted the recent grounding of MD11 and DC10 fleets after the UPS MD-11 crash in Louisville on November 4, 2025, as a significant challenge for firefighting agencies worldwide.
The US Army has selected Bell, Boeing, and Sikorsky for a new rotary-wing training program worth up to $500 million. Training will cover 1,200 pilots annually starting in 2027, representing a significant expansion of Army aviation training capacity.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle emphasized the need for an accelerated F/A-XX program due to the rapid spread of advanced anti-aircraft systems.
China's Spring Airlines and Juneyao Airlines have announced plans to acquire over $8 billion worth of Airbus A320-family aircraft, with deliveries expected between 2028 and 2032. The deals come amid renewed efforts by Airbus to expand its footprint in China, following several years of uneven order activity.
Breaking Defense reports that China will likely dominate defense and security headlines in 2026, given ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. Expect standoffs and encounters between Chinese ships and Philippine counterparts, as well as increased PLAN presence in Japan's waters.
China Southern Airlines is relaunching direct flights between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and Helsinki Airport (HEL), with Boeing 787-9 services starting March 29, 2026. The route was previously removed due to pandemic disruptions.
Breaking Defense reports on China's military parade showcasing its nuclear triad and new missiles, including the HQ-29 anti-satellite interceptor. This event highlights China's growing belligerent behavior in the Indo-Pacific region, with implications for regional security.
China Eastern Airlines has launched the world's longest intercontinental direct flight, connecting Shanghai and Buenos Aires via Auckland with a Boeing 777-39P(ER). The nonstop service reduces travel time between China and South America by over four hours, covering 9,346 kilometers from Shanghai to Auckland and 10,334 kilometers onward to Argentina.
China Airlines has placed a firm order for five more Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft, following board approval in November 2025. The airline already operates 15 Airbus A350-900s and plans to retire four 747-400 freighters as part of its fleet plan.
Breaking Defense reports that Canada is still interested in taking part in the Golden Dome missile defense program, despite tensions between Washington and Ottawa. The US Department of Defense has not responded to questions about how it is currently factoring Canada into ongoing Golden Dome planning.
Canada has confirmed it is making payments tied to long-lead components for 14 additional F-35A fighters, Prime Minister Mark Carney said in Parliament. The move preserves production timing and options, but the review of the full 88-jet plan continues.
AeroTime spoke with Kirk Schultz, Regional Director for International Business Development at Boeing Defense, Space and Security, during WDS 2026. Schultz emphasized the importance of Saudi Arabia as a key market for Boeing, citing the country's largest user internationally of both F-15 and AH-64 Apache.
Boeing's MQ-28 Ghost Bat Collaborative Combat Aircraft program is expanding its capabilities with the addition of internal weapons bays and an increased wingspan. The aircraft will be able to carry a variety of payloads, including electronic warfare systems and Small Diameter Bombs.
At the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines' 69th Assembly of Presidents, leading manufacturers presented ambitious forecasts for the region's aviation boom. Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer each outlined plans to capitalize on Southeast Asia's massive potential, but face significant production challenges.
The Federal Trade Commission has ordered Boeing to divest significant Spirit AeroSystems assets to address antitrust concerns surrounding its $8.3 billion acquisition. Boeing must sell Spirit's Malaysia-based aerostructures operations and maintain supply agreements with competitors including Airbus.
EVIO, backed by Boeing, has unveiled its hybrid-electric regional airliner, the EVIO 810, with a claimed 450 conditional purchase agreements. The clean-sheet aircraft is designed for the 50- to 100-seat market and aims to reduce emissions and operating costs.
Boeing has secured a $2.47 billion US Air Force contract for 15 additional KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling tankers under Lot 12, marking continued momentum for the program following a delivery resumption in July 2025. The award reinforces production stability across Boeing's supply chain and supports the Air Force's critical fleet modernization efforts.
At the Singapore Airshow 2026, Japan Airlines (JAL) has partnered with Boeing to upgrade its 787-9 fleet with new interiors and in-flight Wi-Fi. The upgrades will feature new seats, cabin furniture, and other design elements, as well as enhanced connectivity through newer satellite networks.
Boeing is set to cut around 300 jobs from its defense division in February 2026, according to an anonymous source cited by Bloomberg. This follows a series of workforce changes at the aircraft manufacturer, including layoffs of approximately 17,000 positions in late 2024 and smaller cuts at locations such as Bengaluru, India.
US aircraft manufacturer Boeing has partnered with Flightradar24, a leading flight tracking website, to access live and historic global flight data. This agreement enables Boeing to expand its advanced analytics capabilities and deliver deeper insights to customers.
Boeing has signed a letter of intent with Air Senegal to purchase nine 737 MAX 8 jets, with an option for six further aircraft. The deal is part of Air Senegal's plans to modernize its fleet and expand its network in Europe and the Middle East and Americas.
Boeing has reported a significant increase in aircraft deliveries for 2025, up 68.9% compared to the previous year. The company delivered 537 aircraft, including five 737 MAXs to United Airlines and three to American Airlines.
Boeing has secured an $8.6 billion contract to supply Israel with 25 new F-15IA fighter jets, with an option for 25 more aircraft in the future. The deal, announced by the US Department of War on December 29, 2025, follows talks between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago in Florida.
Boeing announced a $565 million loss on its KC-46 tanker program, driven by higher production support and supply chain costs. The company attributed the charge to increased cost on commercial airplane production, citing improvements in factory rework levels.
Boeing has projected that India and South Asia will require approximately 141,000 new aviation professionals by 2044. According to Boeing's Pilot and Technician Outlook, the region is expected to experience significant growth in both fleet size and air traffic.
Boeing has offered a new contract deal to its striking St. Louis-area workers, aiming to end a three-month-long labor dispute.
Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) conducted the first live air-to-air missile firing by an MQ-28 Ghost Bat collaborative combat aircraft on December 9, 2025. The test saw the MQ-28 destroy a fighter-sized aerial target using a Raytheon AIM-120 AMRAAM missile during an operationally representative mission.
At the Singapore Airshow 2026, Boeing announced the largest landing gear exchange (LGE) contract in its history, worth over $75 million. The deal includes more than 75 aircraft from the Singapore Airlines Group.
Boeing's Chief Financial Officer Jay Malave projects stronger aircraft deliveries in 2026 for both the 737 and 787 jets, signaling improved production momentum following FAA regulatory approval. Speaking at the UBS Global Industrials & Transportation Conference, Malave indicated that production rate increases implemented in late 2025 will translate into measurable delivery gains by Q1 2026, with minimal reliance on inventory drawdowns.
Boeing has expanded its agreement with Ferra Engineering to manufacture munitions wing kits for the P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The contract prolongs the current 17-year partnership and sets up a local production line for the advanced system, according to Boeing Australia (@BoeingAustralia) on February 2, 2026.
Boeing has started a $1 billion expansion of its 787 Dreamliner facilities in North Charleston, South Carolina. The project will create around 1,000 new jobs over five years and employ 2,500 construction workers during the build phase.
Boeing delivered 53 aircraft in October 2025, with the 737 MAX family leading deliveries. This rebound comes after last year's strike, which impacted output.
Boeing delivered 600 commercial aircraft in 2025, surpassing Airbus' sales figures for the first time since 2018. The company handed over 160 commercial airplanes in the fourth quarter alone, led by strong output from its 737 and 787 programs.
Machinists at Boeing's defense factories have ratified a new five-year contract after a 101-day strike. The agreement includes a 24% pay increase over five years, as well as $6,000 signing bonuses.
Boeing has completed its $4.7 billion acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, reabsorbing a critical supplier of airplane structures for commercial jets as well as defense aircraft such as the KC-46 and B-21. The acquisition allows Boeing to acquire all of Spirit's Boeing-related operations, including fuselage construction for the 737 and other commercial jets that are the basis for military planes like the P-8A Poseidon maritime aircraft.
The US military has awarded Boeing a $2.7 billion contract for post-production support services related to Apache helicopters. The firm fixed-price contract was solicited online and is valued at $2,728,234,918.
A lawsuit against Boeing alleges that the US manufacturer attempted to shift blame onto an Alaska Airlines captain for a door plug blowout incident in January 2024. Captain Brandon Fisher is seeking $10 million in damages, citing Boeing's 'reprehensible and inaccurate' response to the incident.
Boeing is abandoning plans to sell its F-15EX fighter jet to Indonesia, a deal that was announced years ago but never materialized due to lack of formalization. The State Department cleared the sale in 2022, but Boeing appears to be ditching the campaign.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have awarded Boeing's 777-9 flight training simulator initial qualification, marking an important milestone in the company's training program. The qualification certificate means Boeing is 'one step closer to conducting regulator-approved pilot training'.
Boeing is planning the first flight of its long-delayed 777X aircraft in April 2026, according to a company document. The milestone follows years of challenges for the program, including significant financial impact on Boeing.
Boeing and Airbus have finalized major acquisitions of Spirit AeroSystems assets, marking a significant shift in aerospace manufacturing structure. Boeing secured Spirit's commercial operations and MRO services, adding approximately 15,000 employees, while Airbus completed its USD 439 million acquisition of sites across four countries, bringing over 4,000 employees into its operations.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines has appointed Humaira Sultana as its new head following the arrest and dismissal of former CEO Shafiqur Rahman. The appointment comes amid a leadership crisis for the national carrier, which has struggled with profitability pressures and competition from regional and Middle Eastern carriers.
Saab, Boeing, and BAE Systems have signed a Letter of Intent to collaborate on the UK's next fast-jet trainer, proposing the T-7 Red Hawk as the core of a new training system for the Royal Air Force. The partnership aims to meet the UK Ministry of Defence's Advanced Jet Trainer requirement, with BAE Systems leading industrial activity as prime contractor.
Global lessor Avolon has indicated that a new commercial aircraft program launch could be announced in 2027, with the Airbus A220-500, A350-2000 and Boeing 777-10X all in contention. The company's 'Up Next' report forecasts strong demand for aviation services and predicts an increase in airline profits.
Aviation Capital Group has placed an order for 50 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, comprising half B737 MAX 10 and half B737 MAX 8s. This deal brings ACG's 737 MAX order book to 121 aircraft, according to Breaking Defense reports.
Austrian Airlines has retired its first Embraer E195, marking the beginning of a fleet rollover that will see the carrier transition to Airbus A320 family jets. The airline plans to sell four of the remaining 17 aircraft externally and deploy six new A320neo aircraft starting in summer 2026.
Australia's first AH-64E Apache attack helicopters have commenced flying operations with the Australian Army in Townsville, marking a significant milestone in the nation's battlefield aviation modernization. The advanced platform, delivered starting September 2025, represents a generational upgrade to Australia's helicopter capability and strengthens defense partnerships with the United States and United Kingdom.
Australia has officially taken delivery of its first MC-55A Peregrine spy jet, which will be operated by No. 10 Squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh. The aircraft is based on the Gulfstream G550 business jet and enhanced by L3Harris Technologies as a prime contractor.
Australia has reportedly signed a AU$1 billion contract with Boeing for six MQ-28 Ghost Bat uncrewed aircraft, marking a significant transition from flight testing to operational procurement by the Royal Australian Air Force. Developed under the Airpower Teaming System program, the Ghost Bat would become the first Australian-designed military aircraft in service since the 1970s.
Australia is considering transferring retiring Tiger attack helicopters to Ukraine as Canberra phases out the fleet in favor of Boeing AH-64E Apaches. The potential transfer comes alongside a new AU$95 million military assistance package and additional sanctions on Russian vessels.
Australia is implementing its most significant defense organization reform in 50 years, creating a new independent Defense Delivery Agency to accelerate weapons acquisition and improve budget performance. The agency, launching July 1, will consolidate three existing groups and report directly to the defense minister, aiming to address rising project complexity and chronic delays.
Canberra has approved a third tranche of the Australian-designed and -built MQ-28 Ghost Bat Collaborative Combat Aircraft from Boeing, worth AUS $754 million. The deal includes seven additional drones to be delivered over three years, supporting the development of an operational capability by 2028.
The US Army is undergoing significant changes to its acquisition process, including a new reporting structure and a focus on commercialization. The Army plans to buy commercial engines for the M1E3 tank and set up a marketplace for drones and counter-drone capabilities.
The US Army has selected three major defense contractors to compete for a new rotary-wing training program worth up to $500 million. Bell, Boeing, and Sikorsky will advance to the next phase of competition, Breaking Defense reports.
The US Army has selected three major defense contractors to compete for a new rotary-wing training program worth up to $500 million. Bell, Boeing, and Sikorsky will advance to the next phase of competition, Breaking Defense reports.
The U.S. Army is actively seeking industry components for a potential small drone interceptor program, issuing a request for information to identify counter-UAS technologies.
The US Army has announced significant changes to its acquisition process, aiming to boost funding for network modernization and software acquisition. The service plans to invest $750 million per year in emerging technologies through the FUZE program.
ANA Holdings has unveiled its fiscal year 2026 flight schedule, detailing a 5% increase in international capacity alongside new Boeing aircraft deliveries and a reorganization of its cargo network. The plan also includes domestic route adjustments and the integration of recently acquired Nippon Cargo Airlines into the group's operations.
American Airlines patched bullet damage on one of its Boeing 737 MAX 8 control surfaces after discovering it during a routine inspection in Medellín, Colombia. The aircraft was removed from service and ferried to Dallas for permanent repairs.
Alaska Airlines has placed a record order with Boeing for 105 additional 737 MAX 10 aircraft, bringing its total order book for this model to 174 units. The airline also ordered five B787 widebody airliners for an undisclosed amount.
Airline pilot hiring shows signs of renewed momentum heading into 2026, according to data from ATP and Aero Crew Solutions. Major airlines such as American Airlines and United Airlines ramped hiring to maximum capacity late in 2025, with plans to continue into 2026.
Buraq Air has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus for 10 jets at the Dubai Airshow, marking a significant step forward for the Libyan carrier. Fouzi Almiqalh, General Assembly President of Buraq Air, said the A320neo's efficiency and flexibility will strengthen its core network and enhance passenger offering across both carriers.
Air India has warned of possible disruptions to its Airbus A350 routes after one of the aircraft suffered engine damage following a landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. The incident occurred on January 15, 2026, when the aircraft encountered a foreign object while taxiing in dense fog.
Air India kicked off Wings India 2026 with orders from Boeing and Airbus. The carrier signed for 30 additional Boeing 737 MAXs, comprising 20 737 MAX 8s and 10 737 MAX 10 jets.
Air India has grounded a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner after a pilot reported a possible defect in the fuel control switch on a London-bound flight. The aircraft was operating as Air India Flight AI132 from London Heathrow to Bengaluru when the issue was observed, Breaking Defense reports.
Air India is facing a record $1.6 billion annual loss after a fatal Boeing 787-8 crash in June 2025, according to Bloomberg. The carrier had hoped to break even by March 31, 2026, but was forced to cut services and inspect its entire Dreamliner fleet following the tragedy.
Air India has announced plans to deploy new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners between Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport (BOM) and London-Heathrow Airport (LHR), as part of its 'Northern Summer Schedule 2026'. The airline expects deliveries of three new, line-fit 787-9s and two A350-1000 aircraft in 2026.
The US Air Force has begun repainting its Air Force Two aircraft in a new dark navy, red and gold paint scheme favored by President Donald Trump. The fleet makeover marks the first visible sign that the executive airlift's long-anticipated redesign is underway.
The US Air Force is set to declare its T-7 Red Hawk training jet ready for production within days, following years of delays. The program has faced challenges, including design woes at Boeing and issues with flight control software.
The Air Force Reserve is standing up its first dedicated offensive cyber operations squadron in January, addressing critical capability gaps identified by operational commanders. The 98th Cyberspace Operations Squadron will retain highly trained cyber professionals transitioning from active duty, while a fourth Combat Communications Squadron will enhance global expeditionary communications capabilities.
The US Air Force has selected nine companies for an early stage of its Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, awarding contracts worth an unspecified amount. The successful firms will now compete for a prototyping deal, which could be offered to more than one company.
The US Air Force has admitted that President Trump's Air Force One delivery will be delayed by another year, with the first aircraft now expected to arrive in mid-2028. Despite previous delays, Boeing aims to deliver the new aircraft in 2027.
The US Air Force is procuring two additional Boeing-made 747 jets from Lufthansa to support the VC-25B presidential airlift program. The aircraft will be used for training and spares, with delivery expected early next year.
The US Air Force expects to receive its first modernized Air Force One aircraft in mid-2028, roughly two-and-a-half years later than initially forecast. The program's revised timeline comes after Boeing secured a deal personally mediated by President Trump in 2018 and faced numerous challenges, including COVID-19 disruptions and workforce woes.
Air Europa has signed a MoU with Airbus for up to 40 A350-900 aircraft, marking a significant step in the Spanish carrier's long-haul fleet renewal. The agreement was announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025 and is expected to accelerate the replacement of older widebodies.
Air China has launched its first new international route of 2026, connecting Beijing Capital International Airport with Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport on a Boeing 787 widebody. The service, which operates four times weekly, marks an expansion of Air China's Middle East network and provides an alternative to existing one-stop itineraries.
Air Canada has welcomed the first of five new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from US-based lessor Air Lease Corporation, Breaking AeroTime reports. The aircraft was part of a long-term lease agreement signed in 2023 and joins Air Canada's diverse fleet of modern aircraft.
Air Cambodia has placed an order for up to 20 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft at the Singapore Airshow, marking the airline's largest narrowbody purchase. According to AeroTime, CEO Dr.
Air Astana has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus for up to 50 A320neo family aircraft, comprising 25 firm orders and 25 purchase options. The package covers both A320neo and A321neo variants, with first deliveries scheduled from 2031.
Air Astana has completed its largest aircraft order with up to 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, finalized on February 17, 2026. The deal supports the airline's long-term growth strategy for operations from Central Asia and Caucasus to Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Fitch Ratings has upgraded its outlook for the aerospace and defense industry, citing record aircraft backlogs, rising defense spending, and supply chains showing signs of recovery. Airlines are flying more passengers and long-haul travel has rebounded, giving manufacturers clearer visibility into production.
AerCap has signed a lease agreement with new airline customer FlySafair for three new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft and two Boeing 737-800NGs, according to AeroTime. The deal marks a significant step in FlySafair's fleet modernization journey, enabling the airline to enhance operational efficiency and meet growing demand for air travel.
AerCap has delivered the first of three Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters to Hong Kong-based Fly Meta, marking a milestone in the aerospace cargo sector. The aircraft, operated under a CMI agreement by Air Atlanta Icelandic's Hungary Air brand, represents the first deployment of this aircraft type on Asia-Pacific to EMEA routes.
Aviation Capital Group (ACG) has acquired a portfolio of 24 aircraft from Avolon, with the majority being narrowbodies and widebody planes. The acquisition brings ACG's fleet to 470 owned, managed, and committed aircraft, and includes new technology aircraft.
A Ryanair-operated Boeing 737-8 MAX experienced an engine shutdown shortly after departing Krakow on December 8, 2025, following the detachment of a cockpit sun visor. The crew successfully restarted the engine in flight and landed the aircraft without incident.