Airbus SE has signed a binding term sheet with Spirit AeroSystems to potentially acquire key production operations, ensuring supply chain stability and sustainability for Airbus’s commercial aircraft programs. The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of A350 fuselage sections, A220 wings and mid-fuselage, and A220 pylons.
Etihad Airways is embarking on a global recruitment campaign to attract pilots, driven by its ambitious fleet expansion plans. The airline aims to source pilots from various regions to operate its growing fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
Viasat and Airbus Defence and Space have partnered to equip the Spanish Ministry of Defence’s new Airbus C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) with advanced satellite communication technology. Viasat’s GAT-5530 dual-band broadband terminal will provide robust, flexible broadband SATCOM capabilities, enhancing command and control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
Airbus has identified key unserved air routes in Africa, highlighting cities like Lagos, Cape Town, and Nairobi, with the potential to boost connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and increase airline revenue. The analysis also forecasts strong growth in African air traffic, demanding new aircraft and a skilled workforce.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating reports that Boeing and Airbus used falsified reports to verify the authenticity of titanium used in some recently produced jets. The fake documents are currently being investigated by Spirit AeroSystems, Boeing and Airbus’ fuselages supplier. The investigation aims to determine the extent of the issue and the safety implications of the affected aircraft. The discovery of small holes in the material from corrosion sparked the investigation, and it is part of a larger trend of supply chain issues and component shortages that are limiting aircraft manufacturers’ ability to meet demand amid a post-COVID travel surge.
AURA AERO has partnered with Airbus Protect to expedite the certification of its ERA hybrid-electric regional aircraft. The partnership combines the strengths of both companies, emphasizing safety, cybersecurity, and sustainability throughout the development and manufacturing processes of ERA. By leveraging Airbus Protect’s expertise in these areas, AURA AERO aims to ensure an efficient and secure certification timeline for ERA. This collaboration also offers Airbus Protect an opportunity to expand its knowledge in hybrid propulsion and all-electric systems, along with gaining insights into the CS-23 regulatory framework.
Saudi Arabian low-cost airline flyadeal recently announced a significant order of 51 narrowbody Airbus aircraft, bolstering its fleet expansion strategy. The deal is part of a record-breaking 105 aircraft purchase by the Saudia Group, the largest such order in Saudi aviation history. Flyadeal’s expansion aims to triple its fleet size by 2030, growing its network from 30 to over 100 domestic and international destinations. The new fleet includes Airbus A320neos and A321neos, with the latter offering increased capacity and flexibility for high-demand routes. The airline’s growth aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of building a dynamic aviation industry and promotes sustainability with the new aircraft’s fuel efficiency.
Saudia Group has unveiled the biggest aircraft transaction in Saudi aviation history with Airbus on the opening day of the Future Aviation Forum 2024, hosted in Riyadh’s King Abdulaziz International Conference Center. The pivotal deal includes 105 aircraft and is a milestone for both Saudi aviation and the broader MENA region. The agreement, sealed by H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft Business, involves A320neo and A321neo models. Saudia will acquire 54 A321neo planes, while flyadeal, the group’s budget airline, will take 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft.
Holidaymakers may face flight cancellations and reduced services this summer due to Boeing’s ongoing production issues and Airbus engine recalls. The recent safety incidents involving Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and the recall of hundreds of Airbus engines have led to a backlog of orders and extended delivery deadlines, leaving airlines short of aircraft. As a result, some flights may be canceled or face surging prices.
Condor, a leading European leisure airline, has recently welcomed its first Airbus A320neo aircraft, marking a significant milestone in its fleet modernization journey. As part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance operational efficiency and provide greater comfort for its passengers, Condor is integrating both the A320neo and A330neo aircraft into its fleet. The A320neo, leased from Avolon, has joined Condor’s existing fleet of A320 family aircraft, which have been the backbone of the airline’s European operations for over two decades. The latest A320neo model features advanced engines from Pratt & Whitney and the innovative Airbus Airspace cabin, providing enhanced efficiency and passenger comfort. With over 10,000 orders from more than 130 clients worldwide, the A320neo family has gained significant recognition for its fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and quieter operations.
