Tag Archives: Delta Air Lines

903 oneworld Alliance

We speak with a oneworld Alliance VP about airline alliances in general, and oneworld in particular. In the news: a mid-air near miss at Atlanta, NTSB and families call on Congress to act on the DCA accident recommendations, a civilian plane crash and military GPS jamming, adaptive-cycle jet engines and sixth-generation combat aircraft, and the unleaded avgas transition plan.

Guest

Roger Blackburn serves as the Vice President – Commercial and Loyalty for the oneworld Alliance. He leads the commercial team and oversees corporate revenue, events, and alliance fare products, as well as the development of oneworld’s loyalty proposition. A member of oneworld’s leadership team for the past six years, Roger has led several key alliance initiatives, including the creation of oneworld’s first two branded lounges.

In our conversation with Roger, we learn about the value that airline alliances provide to the member airlines, and what value accrues to the flying public. We look at criteria for membership in an alliance, network fit, commercial value, and alliance governance, as well as loyalty programs and lounges.

For reference, here are the three major global airline alliances:

Star Alliance, founded in 1997 by Air Canada, Lufthansa, SAS, Thai Airways, and United.
oneworld, founded in 1999 by American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas.
SkyTeam, founded in 2000 by Delta, Air France, Aeroméxico, and Korean Air.

Aviation News

Two Delta Air Lines Jets in Mid-Air Near Miss at Atlanta Hartsfield as Air Traffic Control Direct Departing Aircraft into Path of Other Plane

This was a mid-air near-miss at ATL with two Delta Air Lines flights: Flight DL-1568 from Pittsburgh to Atlanta operated by a Boeing 737-900, and Flight DL-2472 from Atlanta to Rochester, New York, an Airbus A321.

The airport was experiencing weather delays, and controllers were working at full capacity to clear the backlog. Departures and arrivals were taking place on parallel runways. DL-1568 had been scheduled to land three hours earlier and was diverted to Chattanooga to wait out a storm.

The arriving flight 1568 elected to make a go-around after seeing a Frontier flight taking a long time to clear the runway. At the same time, departing flight 2472 was directed to turn and climb to the same altitude as the other Delta flight. A TCAS Resolution Advisory alarm sounded, and the aircraft came within 1,800 feet of each other.

NTSB Chair, Victim’s Families Call Upon Congress toTake Action on 50 Safety Recommendations After DC midair

It’s been a year and a half since American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter collided near DCA, killing 67 people. Six months ago, the NTSB issued safety recommendations. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and families of the victims want Congress to take action on the 50 open recommendations.

So far, Congress has failed to pass either the Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act or the Airspace Location and Enhanced Risk Transparency (ALERT) Act.

Statement from NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy on the open recommendations for the investigation of the January 2025 midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

In part: “Six months ago, we concluded our investigation and adopted our final report, issuing 75 findings and 50 safety recommendations, all of which must be implemented to prevent reoccurrence, yet we are no closer today to addressing many of the serious safety gaps that contributed to this terrible tragedy.

“Every day that passes without implementation of all 50 NTSB recommendations represents a continued and unacceptable risk to public safety.

“The National Transportation Safety Board provided a clear roadmap to improve aviation safety and reduce the risk of another catastrophic midair collision. Now it’s time for action that was promised months ago; we owe it to the victims, to the families who continue to grieve their loss, and to the millions of people who rely on the safety of our aviation system every day.”

A Civilian Plane Crashed in New Mexico. Was Military GPS Jamming To Blame?

On May 14, 2026, a Trans Aero MedEvac Beechcraft King Air 90 crashed in the New Mexico Capitan Mountains, killing four people. The NTSB’s preliminary report [PDF] stated that routine military GPS jamming exercises from White Sands Missile Range were active at the flight’s altitude and location. ADS-B was also degraded. The crew’s ForeFlight pre-flight package briefed the pilots on the jamming threat.

Air Force eyes next-gen engine ‘integration’ by 2030

Although no decision has been made, the Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) system could go into the F-47 Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform. Both Pratt & Whitney and GE Aerospace are developing NGAP prototypes which the Air Force intends to compete for future production. NGAP is designed to be platform agnostic and is a multi-billion-dollar program using adaptive-cycle jet engines for sixth-generation combat aircraft that change jet engine characteristics in flight, allowing more fuel-efficient cruising or increased thrust.

GE Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney (RTX) are the two competitors, building prototypes designated GE’s XA102 and P&W’s XA103. As of late July 2026, the program completed a pre-prototyping readiness review, with both contractors having met the Air Force’s design requirements, clearing the way to begin building and testing hardware.

‘Final’ Unleaded Avgas Transition Plan Released

The so-called “Version 1.0” of the 72-page FAA transition plan was released, updating a draft plan released earlier this year. The FAA says it’s keeping the 2030 target date for replacing 100LL with unleaded fuel.

Unleaded fuel takes center stage at AirVenture

The FAA took some of the comments received to heart, including communication and transparency. AOPA reports, “the FAA plans to release new versions of the transition plan after each phase. The agency also plans to publish two additional documents soon: an FAQ on unleaded fuel and a summary of the input received during the public comment period in early 2026.”

Four transition phases make up the plan:

Authorizing fuels and doing comparison testing.
Focus on unleaded fuels gaining market experience for the benefit of fuel producers, aircraft owners, fuel retailers, and others.
Wide-scale transition, first in the Lower 48 by 2030.
Followed by Alaska two years later.

Mentioned

Air Traffic Control: 45 Years After the PATCO Strike

Video: Spurwink Farm International Fly-In 2026

Two Australian helicopters in deadly midair collision fighting fires in Greece

Hiller Aviation Museum

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, Rob Mark, David Vanderhoof, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Brian Coleman.

900 EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 Preview

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What to expect at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 and an interview with the Manager of Onsite Learning at the Smithsonian’s National Air & Space Museum. Also, how L3Harris converted the Qatari-gifted 747 into Air Force One, the Cirrus TRAC10, window seat lawsuits, a rule change to allow supersonic flight over the United States, and an update on Boom Supersonic’s strategy for its self-developed Symphony engine.

Image commemorating the 900th episode of the Airplane Geeks podcast. By Linda and Lily. — Image by Linda and Lily.

Guest

Dick Knapinski is Director of Communications for the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). He has served in that capacity since 2010 and has been with the organization since 1992. Dick serves as the liaison between the media and EAA throughout the year, particularly during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the world’s largest fly-in convention. The event runs July 20-26, 2026.

Boeing Plaza will be packed with aircraft to celebrate the aviation technology theme. Currently planned innovation displays for July 21 include BETA Technologies, Bye Aerospace, Jetson, American Drone, MagniX, Zipline, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Airhart Aeronautics, Merlin Labs, Amazon Delivery, and Starlight Productions.

In addition to the displays on Boeing Plaza, Bye Aerospace, Jetson, BETA Technologies, American Drone, and ScaleWings plan to fly during the afternoon air show. Drone delivery company Wing will display the latest developments in its operations at Twilight Flight Fest.

Learn more about the AirVenture Airshows and performers, Aircraft Anniversaries & Gatherings, Authors Corner, AviationTech, KidVenture, and the Fly-In Theater.

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh promotional poster.

Rare warbird static/flying displays will include the B-29 “Doc,” as well as a rare Consolidated PB4Y and the CAF’s B-24 Liberator on static display at Boeing Plaza. Vicky Benzing will fly her P-51 “Plum Crazy,” and Bernie Vasquez will demo a Republic P-47 Thunderbolt in afternoon shows.

The Aviation Gateway Park will spotlight helicopters, advanced vertical lift platforms, and eVTOL aircraft through static displays and interactive exhibits.

Before joining EAA, Dick built a broadcasting career in Wisconsin, including stints as Program Director at WNBI Radio, News Director at WMGV Radio, and Station Manager at WLFM-FM/Wisconsin Public Radio. He also spent years as a sportswriter for the Appleton Post-Crescent. Dick holds a private pilot certificate and remains active as a writer and spokesperson for EAA.

Aviation News

How was the new Air Force One prepared for flight?

The two permanent VC-25 replacements were selected in 2015, and the $3.9 billion fixed-price contract was signed in February 2018. Boeing began physical refurbishment work in February 2020 on two 747-8I airframes originally built for the bankrupt Russian carrier Transaero. Boeing has already reported $2.5 billion in losses on the program. The current delivery target for the first jet is between 2027 and 2028, with the second jet to follow later.

The ex-Qatari 747-8 “bridge” aircraft was gifted to the U.S. Air Force in May 2025 and entered service on July 1, 2026. L3Harris did the conversion in about 10 months. The quick conversion was accomplished due to several factors:

Pre-staged employees operated on a 24/7, three-shift structure. (Boeing has worked a normal single-shift industrial pace, with no incentive to surge, staff once costs started ballooning.)
The bridge aircraft came with a luxury interior. (Boeing’s jets had incomplete interiors – basically shells.)
Missing VC-25 elements. Reports (unconfirmed by the government) include no evidence of defensive countermeasures and a lack of EMP hardening.

L3Harris didn’t out-engineer Boeing. They ran a 24/7 surge crew on a plane that already had a finished VIP interior, targeted a much narrower requirement (“executive airlift” vs. full presidential command-post survivability), and the government has not been forthcoming about which hardened-aircraft features (EMP shielding, missile countermeasures, full secure comms suite) were omitted.

Cirrus launches TRAC10, a new light aircraft for the flight training market

Purpose-designed for flight schools and to be powered by a turbocharged Rotax 916 iSc FADEC engine, the plane has a three-seat interior, a Garmin flight deck, and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System. Cirrus says they have 100 orders from 13 flight schools.

United Airlines must face lawsuit over ‘window seats’ that lack windows

Not every “window seat” has a window. Sometimes it has a wall. That’s just the way it is. But last August, some passengers filed class actions ⁠against United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, claiming that the carriers failed to properly disclose the lack of a window during the booking process. United claimed that “window seat” described the seat’s location and did not contractually promise that the seat would, in fact, have a window. In San Francisco, U.S. District Judge James Donato rejected the airlines’ request to dismiss the suit.

New Rule Clears Way for Quiet Supersonic Flights

By way of history: The FAA issued 14 CFR § 91.817 in April 1973, prohibiting civil aircraft from flying at speeds exceeding Mach 1 over land in the United States. The ban came as a result of early Air Force and NASA-controlled boom tests over cities, concerns over the Boeing 2707 SST program, and the impending arrival of the Concorde. NASA’s X-59 QueSST is flying specifically to gather community-response data on its “quiet boom” design.

In a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Proposed rule: Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight), the FAA is looking to replace the blanket Mach-1 ban with a noise-based standard. Supersonic flight over land would be permitted if the boom signature falls under a certain loudness threshold.

The NPRM states, “Manufacturers have demonstrated it is possible to fly supersonic aircraft without sonic booms reaching the surface by using sonic boom abatement techniques, making complete prohibition on civil supersonic flight outside of test areas no longer appropriate and an unnecessary restraint on the growth of the U.S. aviation sector.”

The NPRM shifts the regulatory trigger from speed to noise. Right now, § 91.817 just bans anything faster than Mach 1 over land. The proposed rule keeps that structure but adds an exception: an operator may exceed Mach 1 if it can demonstrate that the sonic boom’s overpressure at the surface does not exceed 0.11 pounds per square foot (psf).

This NPRM only covers en-route/overland boom noise. A separate rule on takeoff/landing noise is expected later this year, with both rules targeted for finalization by mid-2027.

The comment period ends August 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT.

Boom Supersonic Q2 2026 Update

The FAA proposal to change from speed regulation to noise regulation is something Boom Supersonic and others have been seeking. In the Boom Supersonic Q2 2026 Update video, Blake Scholl reveals Boom’s strategy for the Symphony engine. The company intends to market a variant of the engine for behind-the-meter power generation that AI companies can utilize for power.

In large part, the engine OEMs wouldn’t develop an engine for the Overture because the huge development cost couldn’t be covered by the expected engine volume. So when Boom announced it was developing its own engine, the business case was unclear. But by focusing on the ground power generation market, Boom can spread development costs over a greater number of engines. Also, that revenue stream would generate cash flow for the Overture program.

National Air and Space Museum Celebrates 50 Years With Opening of Five New Galleries

Hillel attended the Smithsonian’s National Air & Space Museum media preview of the opening of the five galleries. Last episode, we listened to two recordings from that event. This week Hillel speaks with Mike Hulslander, the museum’s Manager of Onsite Learning.

Mike has worked in museums and zoos for more than 28 years and has researched, written, presented, and evaluated science programs for school groups, families, and the general public. At the Air and Space Museum, he is responsible for science-focused programs and exhibitions. Mike also manages the Museum’s learning centers: How Things Fly and the Design Hangar.

Mike is also an adjunct faculty member at the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education. He serves as a science educator on the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program national review panel for experiment selection and has participated in reviews for the past 11 missions aboard the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station.

Supersonic demo display at the NASM. — Supersonic demo

Lift vs. Angle of Attack display at the NASM. — Lift vs. Angle of Attack

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, David Vanderhoof, Hillel Glazer, and Brian Coleman.

898 Heart Aerospace Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft

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The CEO of Heart Aerospace describes the development of a hybrid-electric 30-seat regional commercial aircraft. In the news, a near miss at Boston Logan between a landing Delta Air Lines flight and a departing American Airlines flight, NASA’s Advanced Aircraft Concepts for Environmental Sustainability 2050 (AACES) program, Canada’s purchase of F-35A fighters and possibly Saab Gripens, and Canada’s look at early-warning-radar planes.

Guest

Anders Forslund is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Heart Aerospace, formed to electrify short-haul regional aviation. Heart Aerospace is developing the ES-30, a hybrid-electric 30-seat regional commercial aircraft. Heart is currently in upstate New York, testing the X1 demonstrator aircraft, which the company says will be the largest electric aircraft ever to fly. The company is backed by Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Ventures and Y Combinator, as well as operator/investors United Airlines and Air Canada.

Anders explains Heart Aerospace’s mission to lower the cost of air travel and how their clean-sheet Part 25 airliner will achieve about a 40% reduction in overall operating costs. The ES-30 will be an electric-motor-and-turboprop hybrid, while the full-scale X1 prototype is all-electric.

The X1 demonstrator has completed low-speed taxi testing at the company’s X1 flight-test base at Plattsburgh International Airport in upstate New York. First flight is expected shortly, with type certification planned for 2031.

Video: Heart X1 Completes Low-Speed Taxi Testing

Anders tells us about the Heart team and how aerospace development has changed in the last decade. The company strives to manage uncertainty rather than minimize it, holds itself accountable, and sets falsifiable goals.

Before starting Heart, Anders was an aerospace researcher at Chalmers, where he was a driving force behind the Elise-Electric Aviation research project in Sweden, funded by the Swedish innovation agency Vinnova. He spent 2013-2014 at MIT, where his work on geometric variation of aerospace components was awarded the Charles M. Manly Memorial Medal. He is also a founding member of the Nordic Network for Electric Aviation.

Anders has a Ph.D. in Aerospace Product Development and a B.Sc. in Engineering Physics from Chalmers. He has a dual M.Sc. in Astronautics and Space Engineering from Cranfield University and Luleå University, as part of the SpaceMaster program. He is also a member of Prince Daniel’s Fellowship for young entrepreneurs.

Follow Heart Aerospace on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

Aviation News

Horrifying Near Miss at Boston Logan as Quick-Thinking Delta Air Pilots Go Around to Avoid Landing On Top of American Airlines Boeing 737

Delta Air Lines flight DL-2351, an Airbus A319 flying from Dallas, was landing at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), was cleared to land on runway 33L. Moments later, American Airlines flight AA-3161, a Boeing 737-800, was cleared to take off for Charlotte from intersecting runway 27. The pilots repeated the instruction back to the controller, and after about 40 seconds, started the takeoff.

As Delta flight 2351 was about to touch down, the pilots saw the American Airlines plane and executed a go-around. That was followed by the air traffic controller asking the American flight, “American, where are you going?”

Listen to the Incident Audio via @xJonNYC.

Electra reveals 100-seat hybrid-electric aircraft concept

Electra developed the concept under NASA’s Advanced Aircraft Concepts for Environmental Sustainability 2050 (AACES) program. NASA has commissioned industry and academia to “develop transformative aircraft designs, propulsion technologies, and sustainability solutions for commercial aviation by 2050.”

Electra’s large airliner concept features a wide “double-bubble” fuselage that generates lift. Propulsion comes from two turbofans under the wings that produce thrust and electricity, as well as three fans mounted on the top of the aft fuselage. Electra says those fans would “ingest and re-energise slower-moving air over the fuselage, a technique known as boundary layer ingestion.”

Other AACES participants include the Georgia Institute of Technology with the Liquefied Natural Gas Powered Athena Aircraft Concept, and JetZero with a hydrogen fueled blended wing body design.

Congress Questions Air Force’s Combat Rescue Readiness As HH-60W Helicopters Get Turned Into VIP Transports

The Senate Armed Services Committee filed S. 4784, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (NDAA), which establishes funding levels and authorities for the U.S. military. The 66th annual NDAA supports a total of $1.15 trillion in FY 2027 funding for national defense.

In its re p ort [PDF], the Committee expresses concern “about combat search and rescue (CSAR) force structure in the Air Force. In recent years, the Air Force truncated the buy of HH-60Ws and has since transferred 26 HH-60Ws from units responsible for CSAR operations to the Air Force District Washington (AFDW) to replace H-1 helicopters. AFDW uses these helicopters to support contingency response, homeland operations, and ceremonial honors in the National Capital Region.

“The committee believes that these actions have left CSAR forces unnecessarily short of the forces needed to support CSAR operations in a major contingency. Therefore, the committee directs the Secretary of the Air Force to conduct a study of CSAR requirements and capabilities, including HH-60Ws and HC-130Js, and provide a report and briefing on that study to the congressional defense committees, not later than March 31, 2027.

“Furthermore, the committee directs the Secretary to avoid making any changes in CSAR force structure until the study is completed and he or she has provided the results of that study to the Congress.”

Canada Plans Fleet Surge to 140+ Fighters as Low Cost Gripens Reduce Expenses

According to informed sources, the Royal Canadian Air Force plans to grow its fighter fleet to 140, possibly by purchasing Saab Gripen jets. Canada has planed to purchase 88 F-35A fighters, but that could drop to 70, accompanied by 70 Gripens. Saab offered to establish final assembly, maintenance, and long-term industrial support in Canada. This would transfer technology and intellectual property to Canada. Under the F-35 program, sustainment and software updates are centralized in the United States.

Canada to buy Swedish surveillance plane over US models

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada would not purchase early-warning-radar planes from the United States. Instead, they will purchase Saab’s GlobalEye, which is based on the Bombardier Global 6500 jet, manufactured in Canada. Price and fleet size were not announced. Saab said in a statement that as part of any deal, the company would invest in research and development work in Canada.

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and David Vanderhoof.

889 The Lost Joy of Flying

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The decline of enjoyment in today’s air travel experience, special TSA treatment for Congress members, consolidating ATC functions, TRACON evacuations, Artemis II, Part 141 training organizations, and aerial refueling. Also, Av-Con 2026, Spacewoman documentary, “souls onboard,” and EAS.

Aviation News

‘The alarm bells are going off’: Air travel hits new lows

Recent events have made commercial air travel a difficult proposition for many air travelers. We see increasing fuel costs and increasing ticket prices, long lines at some security checkpoints, TSA workers absent, recent accidents, air traffic controller shortages, equipment malfunctions, and more.

The U.S. Travel Association’s senior vice president of government relations, Erik Hansen, said of passengers, “What they’re seeing is chaos, and what they’re seeing is a system that doesn’t work.”

Delta suspends special congressional services amid shutdown

In a statement to The Hill, Delta said, “Due to the impact on resources from the longstanding government shutdown, Delta will temporarily suspend specialty services to members of Congress flying Delta. Next to safety, Delta’s no. 1 priority is taking care of our people and customers, which has become increasingly difficult in the current environment.” Those services have included airport escorts and red coat services.

Senate passes measure prohibiting preferential airport screening for lawmakers

Just days before the Delta action, the U.S. Senate unanimously approved a proposal to end the special treatment members of Congress get at airports. That included permitting members of Congress to speed through or skip security screening checkpoints. To become law, the House would have to pass the bill, and the President would have to sign it.

LaGuardia controller staffing may have violated procedures on night of collision, document shows

On March 22, 2026, an Air Canada jet landing at LaGuardia struck a fire truck, killing both pilots. LaGuardia tower’s standard operating procedures specify that a controller cannot perform both air and ground duties. The NTSB is investigating the roles of the controllers at the time of the crash.

A 2023 rule in the LaGuardia Tower Standard Operating Procedures states, “Positions at LaGuardia Tower are not to be consolidated to one position prior to midnight local time or 90 minutes after the start of the shift, whichever is later.” Those familiar with the matter said the rule remained in effect in 2026.

D.C.-area ATC evacuations followed 2025 smoke event which injured controllers

On March 13, 2026, FAA operations were disrupted after Potomac Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) reported a strong smell. Fire responders investigated, and the source was identified as an overheated circuit board. That incident caused a ground stop lasting a little over two hours, affecting DCA, IAD, BWI, and nearby airports.

On March 27, 2026, the TRACON was evacuated again after another strong chemical smell, reportedly originating from an overheated battery backup or other electrical component in the break room/IT area. That second evacuation also triggered ground stops and significant delays across the region.

A similar event occurred in April 2025, when smoke entered the Potomac TRACON control room. That incident did not lead to an evacuation, but did leave multiple controllers with health issues severe enough to affect their medical certificates.

Artemis II Headed for the Moon

The Artemis II Mission flew four astronauts around the moon before returning them to Earth. The planned 10-day test flight is the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972 that humans have departed Earth orbit. NASA’s SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion spacecraft lifted off from Launch Pad 39B at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 6:35 p.m. EDT on April 1, 2026.

The Artemis III mission will launch a crew in the Orion spacecraft atop the SLS rocket to test rendezvous and docking capabilities between Orion and commercial spacecraft (SpaceX and Blue Origin) needed to land astronauts on the Moon. NASA will announce specifics on the Artemis III mission design and crew closer to the 2027 launch.

Artemis IV astronauts will travel to lunar orbit, where two crew members will descend to the surface and spend approximately a week near the Moon’s South Pole conducting new science before returning to lunar orbit to rejoin their crew for the journey back to Earth.

Report Calls for Major Flight Training Changes

The FAA has released a 471-page report by the National Flight Training Alliance (NFTA) titled A Comprehensive Modernization of Pilot Training Conducted by 14 CFR Part 141 Training Organizations, which states:

“The goal of this modernization effort is unambiguous: to develop a robust certification and regulatory framework under 14 CFR Part 141 that stands alone as the preeminent accreditation and method by which aviators are trained throughout the world. Under this new framework, achieving FAA certification would represent the highest standard of training excellence available anywhere negating the need for further accreditation or external oversight. The American flight training system would, in this vision, stand alone already.“

The key recommendations include:

Establishing a dedicated Central Management Office responsible for all Part 141 pilot school initial certification and ongoing certificate management.
Establishing both Safety Management Systems and Quality Management Systems within the Part 141 training environment.
Reforming how the FAA manages and oversees certificated pilot schools.
Developing industry consensus standards as an alternate means of compliance with Part 141 regulations.
Reforming the Part 141 examining authority framework.
Expanding Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD) and Technology Credit and Usage.
Modernizing training course appendices.
Replacing Provisional Pilot School with Registered Pilot School.

A-10 Warthog Being Tested With Aerial Refueling Probe Bolted Onto Its Nose

A test A-10 has been flown for the first time with a refueling probe replacing its normal aerial refueling receptacle. The A-10 successfully connected to the aerial refueling drogue of a C-130.

The Air Force uses a flying boom system, while the Navy uses a probe-and-drogue system.

Mentioned

The “Spacewoman” documentary about Eileen Collins, the first woman Shuttle pilot.

Journey is the Reward / Airplane Geeks Meet-Up, Sunday, May 17, 2026, 4:00 PM at Charlie’s Pizza, Restaurant and Pub (1980 Rt. 37, Manchester Township, NJ 08759).

Visiting the Av-Con 2026 in Atlanta – Held April 4, 2026, at the Delta Flight Museum. Av-Con is described as “the world’s first convention built for aviation fans by aviation creators.”

Souls On Board

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

864 Jet Fighter Pilot

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A retired U.S. Marine Corps fighter pilot and current leadership instructor describes flying the F-16, the F/A-18, the F-22, and the F-35. He provides lessons from instructing at Top Gun, and the important behaviours for leaders. In the news, Boeing is fined for safety violations, the St. Louis strike continues, the NTSB preliminary report describes the air turbulence incident, and the creation of an aerospace hub at a former Air Force Base.

Guest

Dave Berke is a retired U.S. Marine Corps fighter pilot and current leadership instructor with Echelon Front. Dave is one of the rare few to have flown the F-16, F/A-18, F-22, and F-35. He also served as the Training Officer at TOPGUN, where he led the staff of instructors who trained the students in air combat tactics and leadership under pressure. He spent a year as a ground Forward Air Controller, calling in air strikes and supporting SEALs, Marines, and Soldiers in the Battle of Ramadi in 2006.

Dave describes how a Marine pilot ended up flying the F-16 and F-22, and what it’s like to fly the F-35B with its STOVL capabilities. He compares different jet fighters he has flown and explains how they are different and how they are similar.

We hear Dave’s thoughts on ground support aircraft and dedicated aircraft platforms in general. Dave tells us the combat environment is changing and how information and airframe flexibility are key now, as opposed to single-role platforms.

Of course, we ask Dave if the Top Gun movies are accurate. His answer is both yes and no, but Top Gun: Maverick is very good from a flying standpoint. Dave tells us the jet fighter career path is more attainable than many people assume. Also, while flying ability is important, being a Top Gun Instructor hinges on being a good teacher.

The Echelon Front leadership consultancy takes the lessons from combat and applies them to people’s personal and professional lives.

In his new book, The Need to Lead: A TOPGUN Instructor’s Lessons on How Leadership Solves Every Challenge, Dave describes the 10 most important mindsets and behaviors for leaders that he learned from the cockpit. Order the book on Amazon, available October 21, 2025.

Fighter pilot Dave "Chip" Berke in the cockpit. — Fighter pilot Dave “Chip” Berke.

Aviation News

FAA proposes to fine Boeing $3.1 million over widespread safety violations

Between September 2023 and February 2024, the FAA found hundreds of quality system violations at Boeing’s 737 factory in Renton, Washington, and at subcontractor Spirit AeroSystems. The FAA also identified interference with safety officials’ independence and proposed a $3.1 million fine, the maximum statutory civil penalty authority consistent with law.

The findings include: presenting two unairworthy aircraft to the FAA for airworthiness certificates, failure to follow its quality system rules, and a Boeing employee pressuring another worker to sign off on a non-compliant 737 MAX. Boeing has 30 days to respond.

Press release: FAA Proposes $3.1 Million in Fines Against Boeing

Boeing Defense, union reach tentative deal to end strike in St. Louis area

On Wednesday, Boeing Defense and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers reached a tentative 5-year contract agreement that would end a five-week-long strike in the St. Louis area.

Striking Boeing workers reject latest offer

However, on Friday, 57% of the IAM members voted to reject the agreement that would have increased the average wage from $75,000 to $109,000. The contract term would have increased from four years to five and included a ratification bonus of $4,000.

Boeing says, “…no further talks are scheduled. We will continue to execute our contingency plan, including hiring permanent replacement workers, as we maintain support for our customers.”

See: Boeing’s Terms of the Strike Settlement Offer [PDF]

NTSB describes the turbulence that threw passengers around the cabin on a Delta flight

In July, a Delta Air Lines flight from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam encountered severe turbulence over Wyoming and diverted to Minneapolis. Twenty-four 24 people were evaluated by paramedics, and 18 were taken to hospitals. Two crew members sustained serious injuries.

In a preliminary report, the NTSB said

The pilots had changed their flight path to avoid turbulence from storms, but the encounter caught them by surprise.
The seat belt sign was off.
The turbulence lasted two and a half minutes.
People on board experienced up to 1.75 upward Gs, followed by a half G down.
At one point, the plane’s wing dipped down as much as 40 degrees.

AP reports, “The pilots likely believed they were in the clear after asking air traffic controllers to route them around the storms. But the NTSB charted the plane’s flight path over a radar report from the National Weather Service that showed the plane flew directly into a bright red section of the map showing the worst of the storm.”

How a Global Aerospace Company Landed in Northern Maine

Kansas City-based Aero Intelligence is a certified FAA/EASA 145 Repair Station that offers aircraft asset management, 24/7 AOG, disassembly, recycling, and records management services. Also, engineering support, recruitment services, Maintenance and Engineering Audits and Inspections, Aircraft Refurbishment & Interior Design, project management, and others. The Loring Development Authority wants to create an aerospace hub and bring new jobs to Aroostook County at the former Loring Air Force Base.

Erin Applebaum

Erin Applebaum, our Legal Liaison, attended the Boeing/DOJ deferred prosecution hearing on the Government’s motion to dismiss the criminal charge against Boeing regarding the 737-Max and Ethiopian Flight 302. The DOJ asked the judge to dismiss the charge, accept a non-prosecution agreement with a fine, and allow Boeing to select its own compliance consultant. Erin explains that, in an unprecedented move, the DOJ has declared in writing that it will not prosecute Boeing, even if the judge does not dismiss the charge.

Erin is a Partner in the aviation practice at Kreindler & Kreindler LLP. She represents the interests of passengers severely injured or killed in general aviation and commercial airline accidents.

Mentioned

Video: Underwater Drone Footage Moosehead Lake, Sunken Plane Locating and Recovery Mission

Video: USAF F-22 Raptor Pedal Turn w/ flares

13 Minutes Presents: The Space Shuttle

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, David Vanderhoof, Rob Mark, and our Main(e) Man Micah.

857 MOSAIC – the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification final rule

The MOSAIC final rule, an interview with the founder and CEO of Flying Eyes Optics, FAA guidance on certification of powered lift vehicles, new galleries opening at the National Air and Space Museum, a Delta pilot lands and gets immediately arrested, deer strikes in Alaska, and the NTSB investigation of a fatal flight in that state. Also, thoughts on recent moves to relocate the Space Shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum to Space Center Houston.

Guest

Dean Siracusa in the cockpit. — Dean Siracusa

Dean Siracusa is the founder and CEO of Flying Eyes Optics. Dean, a pilot, started the company when he realized that existing sunglasses did not perform well with the increased clamping force of modern aviation headsets.

Flying Eyes temples are made of a patented material that allows the temples to conform to your head instead of curving around your ears. They’re easy to put on and take off while wearing a headset or helmet. The flexibility of the temple material and shatterproof polycarbonate lenses makes these glasses hard to break.

Hillel Glazer, our Aviation Innovation and Entrepreneurship Correspondent, interviewed Dean at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025.

Aviation News

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Announces Improvements to Recreational Aviation Safety, Expansion of Light-Sport Sector

The Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) final rule was announced by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. The new rule makes changes to the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category and Sport Pilot privileges by expanding an alternative to experimental amateur-built aircraft. MOSAIC:

Removes the weight limit
Encompasses aircraft with higher speeds, more seats, and retractable landing gear.
Allows for new types of propulsion and modern avionics.
Allows aerial work with LSA, such as infrastructure and forest inspections, photography/filming, and agricultural surveillance.
Allows pilots operating under Sport Pilot privileges to fly a broader range of aircraft.
Reduces regulatory requirements by expanding the types of aircraft that qualify as LSA and the types of aircraft pilots can fly under Sport Pilot privileges.

Changes for sport pilots and light-sport repairmen take effect 90 days after the final rule publishes. Changes for LSA certification take effect 365 days after the final rule publishes.

Video: Secretary Sean P. Duffy Holds Press Conference for Important Announcement on General Aviation

EAA Airventure Oshkosh 2025 Facts and Figures

Attendance for the week: approximately 704,000, the highest on record. More than 10,000 aircraft, 2,543 show planes, nearly 6,000 volunteers, and 962 commercial exhibitors.

FAA Releases Powered-Lift Certification Guidance

Originally, certification of the new advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft types, such as eVTOLs, had been worked under Part 23 regulations for light aircraft. In 2022, the FAA categorized them as powered-lift under FAR 21.17(b) regulations for special class aircraft. That category had no airworthiness standards and operating rules.

The FAA has now released an advisory circular “streamlining the certification process for advanced air mobility aircraft by releasing guidance for how manufacturers can meet the agency’s aircraft design and performance safety standards. It establishes a consistent, performance-based framework for manufacturers to follow. The FAA will carefully evaluate each proposed design to ensure it meets the agency’s rigorous standards.”

The AC defines powered-lift as heavier-than-air aircraft that use “engine-driven lift devices” or engine thrust for vertical takeoff and landing and low-speed flight. For lift during horizontal flight, they use rigid airfoils such as wings.

National Air and Space Museum Opens Five New Galleries July 28 [2025]

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum opened five new galleries, the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater and the museum’s redesigned entrance on Jefferson Drive along the National Mall Monday. The remaining galleries will open July 1, 2026, the 50th anniversary of the museum in Washington and in time for the United States’ 250th anniversary.

The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., is located at Jefferson Drive between Fourth and Seventh streets S.W. and is open every day except Dec. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, but timed-entry passes are required to visit. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, Virginia, near Washington Dulles International Airport and is open every day except Dec. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, timed-entry passes are not required and parking is $15.

Alaska Airlines plane hits multiple deer while landing in Kodiak, Alaska

Alaska Airlines flight 231 flying from Anchorage hit several unfortunate deer while landing in Kodiak, Alaska. Damage was sustained to the 737’s landing gear. The FAA’s wildlife strike database shows more than 22,000 strikes reported in 2024.

Too Much Moose Meat and Antlers Caused a Plane Crash in Alaska that Killed Congresswoman’s Husband, the NTSB Reports

After a nearly two-yesr investigation, the NTSB released its report of a fatal 2023 Piper PA-18 crash carrying moose meat and antlers. The Piper was loaded with 520 pounds of cargo, 117 pounds overweight. The aircraft also had a set of antlers strapped to the wing without the required FAA approval. The NTSB stated that the cause of the crash was the excess weight and the “unapproved external load” of the antlers, which “degraded takeoff performance and flight characteristics” leading to a loss of control.

‘Stormed The Cockpit’: Homeland Security Arrests Delta Pilot Moments After Landing In San Francisco

A passenger onboard reports that 10 law enforcement officers, including Homeland Security Investigations officers, “stormed to the front” of the aircraft as soon as the Boeing 757 arrived and “grabbed/arrested” one of the pilots.

Mentioned

Shuttle Discovery’s Texas transfer launches cost concerns

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, David Vanderhoof, and Hillel Glazer.

844 Airline Retailing

Airline retailing with ATPCO CEO Alex Zoghlin, IATA’s New Distribution Capability, Offers & Orders, and the Elevate industry conference. In the news, AI transformation of the airline industry, cyber criminals stealing United FA login credentials, shark skin riblets on Delta 767s, first flight of a prototype hydrogen-powered helicopter, China’s tailless 6th generation fighter jet, and a fatal helicopter crash in the Hudson River.

Guest

Alex Zoghlin is the CEO of ATPCO, a neutral industry partner that provides airline management tools, pricing data, and solutions that support airline retailing. Owned by the airlines, ATPCO blends data and systems with technology to create value for hundreds of commercial airlines around the world. The company turned 60 this year.

IATA describes Airline retailing as a customer-centric approach in the airline industry that focuses on enhancing the shopping experience across various channels. It is enabled by the New Distribution Capability (NDC), which allows airlines to offer more personalized services and products directly to consumers. This modern retailing model emphasizes frictionless, intuitive, and personalized shopping experiences for travelers. The transition to this model provides airlines with opportunities to innovate their distribution strategies and create additional value.

Alex explains how ATPCO provides value to airlines. We talk about continuous pricing and dynamically generated fares as well as some of the factors airlines use in their pricing strategies. He describes how airlines can have fixed price points for different offerings, then turn specific offerings on or off depending on the circumstances. We look at curated ticket pricing that can create the specific travel experience the customer wants – extra baggage, type of seat, lounge access, etc. With this capability, airlines could potentially compete for the flyer’s travel business.

ATPCO’s Elevate 2025 airline industry conference was held April 7-10, 2025, in Chicago. Alex says the conference theme this year was data and AI: How airlines can use the wealth of available data and some AI tools to make win-win offerings for both the airlines and the consumers.

In our conversation with Alex, we consider several other airline industry topics such as the 2050 industry carbon reduction goals and the current tariff situation in the United States.

Alex is a long-time airline/travel industry veteran. He co-founded Orbitz, sold a distribution startup to Travelport, and worked as a VP at Hyatt for 6 years. Alex has several aviation-related pursuits: He’s a pilot and a flight simmer, he has a Part 107 drone license, and he participates in launching large amateur rockets, specifically the LDRS (Large, Dangerous Rocket Ships), an annual gathering of rocket enthusiasts organized by the Tripoli Rocketry Association.

Aviation News

How AI is Transforming the Airline Industry

The Promise of Travel in the age of AI, a 32-page Skift & McKinsey report (2023), claims that AI could generate an estimated US$45bn in potential value for the airline industry globally through operational efficiencies, revenue optimization, and customer service improvements.

AI is already impacting the airlines through organizational changes, predictive maintenance from aircraft health monitoring, AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots, personalized in-flight entertainment options, and voice-cloning technology to provide a multilingual IFE system. In the future, look for flight path optimization for increased fuel efficiency, refined dynamic pricing models, and even autonomous aircraft.

Cyber Criminals Are Going After The Paychecks Of United Airlines Flight Attendants Using Fake Websites That Look Legit

Criminals are using website spoofing to steal the login credentials of United FAs. In addition to paychecks, Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are at risk. Airline passengers who quickly search for an airline’s phone number can also become victims of scams.

Delta Air Lines Innovates Fuel Efficiency with Shark Skin Riblets on 767s

In partnership with Australian company MicroTau, Delta is testing “shark skin” riblets that reduce drag on the Boeing 767. The claim is up to a 4% improvement in fuel efficiency. The skin is applied to the fuselage, wing, and tails. MicroTau’s Riblet Package was also tested on Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 technology demonstrator.

The engineering behind the first hydrogen-powered helicopter flight

A Robinson R44 that has been modified as a hydrogen-powered helicopter prototype achieved a successful first flight. Robinson and Unither Bioélectronique (through the United Therapeutics subsidiary) are collaborating on the project that incorporates two low-temperature proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, a lithium-ion booster battery pack, and a MagniX electric motor. The cylindrical hydrogen fuel tank is mounted under the tail boom and the cooling system utilizes two nacelles on either side of the helicopter.

See: What are proton exchange membrane fuel cells and how do they work?

Diagram of the operation of a hydrogen fuel cell. — Courtesy Biolin Scientific.

New video of China’s tailless, triple-engine fighter jet has military aviation community buzzing

New video of the J-36 flying over a highway have appeared on Chinese social media sites. The highway is located near the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group runway where the jet is believed to have been made.

See: New Video Of China’s J-36 Next Generation Stealth Fighter Emerges and 6-second video of the J-36 on X.

Fewer than 1 in 3 airlines have advanced offer and order strategies

IATA explains in Distribution with Offers & Orders (New Distribution Capability – NDC) that NDC is a data exchange format based on Offer and Order management processes for airlines. This allows airlines to create and distribute relevant offers to the customer, regardless of the distribution channel. NDC (New Distribution Capability) was launched by IATA and is a travel industry-supported program. It’s open to any third party, intermediary, IT provider or non-IATA member, to implement and use.

See:

Helicopter crashes in Hudson River in New York City, all 6 on board killed

The chartered helicopter was flying a couple and their three children on a sightseeing tour. Video shows the Bell 206 falling into the river without a tail rotor or a main rotor blade.

See: Deadly Hudson River helicopter crash renews calls to restrict non-emergency flights. Local New York City elected officials are calling for a ban on non-emergency helicopter traffic over the City. Mayor Eric Adams countered that there is no need for an outright ban.

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Max Trescott, Rob Mark, and David Vanderhoof.

836 Air Traffic Control Safety

We discuss recent aviation accidents, explore potential litigation, and consider changes to the U.S. Air Traffic Control system.

Guest

Erin Applebaum, partner at Kreindler & Kreindler.

Erin Applebaum returns as our guest for this episode. Erin is a Partner in the aviation practice of Kreindler & Kreindler LLP, a New York law firm. She specializes in litigation for passengers who were injured or killed in general aviation accidents and commercial airline disasters. Erin previously joined us in Episode 831 Advocating for 737 MAX Crash Victims and Episode 777 Aviation Accident Litigation.

We discuss the Delta Air Lines CRJ-900 regional jet crash at Toronto’s Pearson Airport. Because this occurred the same day the episode was recorded, few verified facts were available. Erin also helps us consider the Washington National midair collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army Blackhawk helicopter. We look at the U.S. air traffic control system, including staffing needs, outdated systems, and alternatives such as privatization such as that used by other countries.

Along the way, Erin explains litigation under the Montreal Convention and how aviation attorneys obtain clients. We look at the quality of communications between controllers and pilots, the types of altimeter types and implications for safety, traffic screens, the current status of the B737 MAX litigation, and the Federal Tort Claims Act. We also have thoughts on how to respond when people outside the industry ask, “Is it safe to fly?”

Erin has devoted her career to advocating for justice and fighting for the advancement of aviation safety. She serves on the Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee for the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Boeing 737 MAX litigation. Erin is part of the legal team representing the 737 MAX crash victims in the federal criminal case against Boeing.

Aviation News

We used the following sources for our conversation. Note that some are behind a paywall and others require free registration.

Black Hawk crew might not have heard crucial tower instruction, NTSB says

Pilots got 100 collision warning at DCA

From 1920s Thinking to Digital Autonomy: After 100 Years, It’s Time To Rethink How Air Traffic Control Works

US senators call for increased funding, staffing for air traffic control

How Elon Musk Will Bring ATC Under Control, By Robert Poole, Reason Foundation.

Victims’ Families of Boeing Crash Ask New US Attorney General for Meeting on Criminal Plea Agreement

Elon Musk Vows To Cut FAA’s “Senseless” Supersonic Boom Noise Regulation

Mentioned

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, Rob Mark, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Max Trescott.

831 Advocating for 737 MAX Crash Victims

We speak with a Partner at an aviation practice who advocates for 737 MAX crash victims. In the news, we look at the Azerbaijan and Jeju crashes, Boeing’s safety and quality-control plan update, Delta’s plan for an AI-rich future, and V-22 Osprey catastrophic failure risks. Also, favorite flybys from listeners.

Guest

Erin Applebaum is a partner in the aviation practice at Kreindler & Kreindler LLP, specializing in high-stakes litigation for passengers injured or killed in general aviation accidents and commercial airline disasters.

Erin updates us on the status of the 737 MAX crash civil litigation. The criminal case is ongoing but likely nearing an end. Boeing was found in violation of the deferred prosecution agreement but the judge rejected the negotiated plea deal. The families of the victims are unhappy because the criminal case focuses on the single charge of defrauding the FAA, and not on those who lost their lives.

Erin maintains a robust practice of litigating tort claims governed by the Montreal Convention, the global treaty governing international commercial flights. She teaches a popular aviation CLE course for other attorneys on how to litigate personal injury claims for international airline passengers. Erin has published a comprehensive update on the law governing international aviation claims in the highly respected legal journal of McGill University, “Annals of Air and Space Law.”

Erin serves as Co-Chair of the New York City Bar Association’s Aeronautics Committee, Vice Chair of the American Bar Association’s Aviation and Space Law Committee, and is an active member of the American Association for Justice and the International Aviation Women’s Association.

Aviation News

Russian Air Defence System Caused Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crash

On December 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan Airlines ERJ-190 flying from Baku Azerbaijan to Grozny in Russia’s Chechnya crashed in Aktau Kazakhstan leaving 38 people dead. The plane diverted from Grozny due to dense fog and ultimately made an emergency landing an hour later in Grozny. On final approach, the Embraer lost altitude and impacted the ground off the runway. Twenty-nine people, including the cabin crew, survived. Thirty-eight, including the flight crew, did not

IATA Statement on Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 says, in part:

“Civil aircraft must never be the intended or accidental target of military operations. The strong potential that Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 could have been the victim of military operations, as indicated by several governments including Russia and Azerbaijan, places the highest priority on conducting a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation. The world eagerly awaits the required publication of the interim report within 30 days, in line with international obligations agreed in the Chicago Convention. And should the conclusion be that this tragedy was the responsibility of combatants, the perpetrators must be held accountable and brought to justice.”

Boeing Shares Details of Safety Plan One Year After Door Plug Incident

Boeing provided an update of its plan to address systemic safety and quality-control issues, which included:

Reducing 737 fuselage assembly defects at Spirit AeroSystems through increased inspection and a customer quality approval process;
Addressing more than 70% of the action items from employee feedback
Managing traveled work at final assembly with “move ready” criteria
Adding hundreds of hours to employee quality and safety training programs
Performing random quality audits of documented removals
Mapping thousands of governance documents and work instructions for revision.
Strengthening the Speak Up program to ensure whistleblower confidentiality and keep employees informed about the status and resolution of their reports.

US FAA will maintain enhanced oversight of Boeing after door panel incident

In One Year after Boeing Door Plug Incident, FAA Administrator Whitaker says “We have conducted an unprecedented number of unannounced audits; and we conduct monthly status reviews with Boeing executives to monitor progress. Our enhanced oversight is here to stay,”

Delta hypes GenAI, new content partners in 2025 CES keynote

By Seth Miller (@wandrme.paxex.aero on Bluesky.) Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian described the airline’s future in his keynote presentation at CES in Las Vegas: A system powered by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) will predict where it can help travelers and provide assistance. Bastian described it as “A thread across your experience, a GenAI-powered assistant that anticipates your needs and provides recommendations.”

Delta also announced some major IFE content partnerships, including:

YouTube will provide “highly curated” ad-free content on personal devices and seatbacks that will include music, podcasts, and regular videos.
Retired quarterback Tom Brady will host a video series called “Well Traveled.”
DraftKings will provide “gaming” offerings on the in-seat IFE.

Video: CES 2025 Keynote with CEO of Delta, Ed Bastian

V-22 Ospreys will face ‘serious’ risks from flawed gears for the foreseeable future

A Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) system safety risk assessment found that the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey fleet will continue to face a “serious” risk of catastrophic failure. This is despite actions to mitigate the failure of transmission gears due to an impurity in the X-53 steel used to make the gears, creating a weak point. The inclusions were estimated to result in a catastrophic failure frequency of seven per million flight hours. Serious risk is considered to be one failure per million flight hours.

True V-22 geeks will enjoy the technical details in the United States Air Force, Aircraft Investigation Board Report, CV-22B, T/N 10-0054.

Crash: Jeju B738 at Muan on Dec 29th 2024, gear up landing and overrun

The Jeju Boeing 737-800 was performing a flight from Bangkok to Muan in South Korea. The plane attempted to land with all gear up, slid down the runway, and impacted a concrete embankment about 300 meters (1000 feet) past the runway. The 737 burst into a fireball. Of the 175 passengers and six crew, two people were rescued alive, both cabin crew. The investigation is considering the possibilities of bird strikes and landing gear problems.

Black boxes’ from crashed South Korean plane stopped recording about four minutes before disaster, officials say

Video: Jeju Air back boxes stopped recording before flight crash

Mentioned

Mark Your Calendars: Cranky Dorkfest 2025 is September 13

In-N-Out at LAX

Meet the Quokka

The story behind the experimental collar worn by Luke Kuechly

From Brian’s most interesting flybys:

Video: TIME TO BUZZ THE TOWER – Edwards AFB Tower Flyby at USAF Test Pilot School

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, David Vanderhoof, and Max Trescott.

827 AI Governance Framework for Aerospace and Defense

An AI governance framework for aerospace and defense, airlines pad flight times and improve on-time performance, record numbers of travelers over the Thanksgiving holiday, stowaways on airline flights, and executive-level cost-cutting at Boeing.

Guest

Photo of Tim White, Vice President of Engineering and Technology at the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA).

Tim White is the Vice President of Engineering and Technology at the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), where he advocates for the technical workforce to policymakers. In this role, he leads AIA staff and members in identifying, developing, and executing consensus programs and activities aimed at enhancing cost savings, performance, and efficiency within the aerospace and defense industry.

AIA Unveils AI Flight Plan Documenting Best Practices for AI Governance in Aerospace

The AIA released the AI Flight Plan, Best Practices for AI Governance in Aerospace, a first-of-its-kind document outlining comprehensive best practices for the governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) use for aerospace and defense. The framework outlines the elements of an AI governance program that targets three primary usages of AI in aerospace:

Business operations enhancement
Generative systems design and development
Integration into customer-delivered products, software, and services.

Tim has over 20 years of experience in operational and consulting roles within the aerospace and defense industry, having worked for companies such as Raytheon, Honeywell, and Bechtel. Throughout his career, he has contributed to commercial and defense products and held leadership positions in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality. Most recently, he has collaborated with advanced technology companies like Interos and Mosaic Data Sciences, focusing on delivering cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, and digital transformation.

Tim holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, an MBA from Brigham Young University, and a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering from George Washington University. He is also certified in Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis, and Change Leadership.

Airlines Are Padding Flight Times. It’s Not Your Imagination

According to a NYT Upshot analysis of Bureau of Transportation Statistics data, airlines strategically add extra time to their flight schedules, effectively “padding” their flight durations. This leads to a higher percentage of flights arriving on time or early even if the actual flight time hasn’t significantly changed. This improves airline on-time performance metrics.

Jammed Thanksgiving Flights Push U.S. Air Travel to Record

The Transportation Security Administration said it screened about 3.09 million people on Sunday, the peak of the busy Thanksgiving travel period. The previous record set in July was 3.01 million travelers. The TSA reports that their 10 busiest days were recorded in 2024.

Stowaway caught after getting aboard Delta flight from New York City to Paris

The woman, a U.S. resident, boarded a Delta flight from JFK to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and was discovered midair. She had been hiding out in the lavs and the flight attendants noticed the strange behavior. The TSA said the woman passed through a body scanner at JFK, evaded the document and ID check portion, had her bags scanned, proceeded to the gate, and snuck onto the flight.

The Delta Paris Stowaway Incident Keeps Getting Stranger – The stowaway was a 57-year-old woman living in the Philadelphia area. She’s a Russian national who holds a US Green Card. She requested asylum in Paris, which was rejected. The woman was placed on a return flight but pulled off after a disruptive outburst.

Is Delta the Official Airline of Stowaways? – This was not the only stowaway incident involving Delta Air Lines.

Flight Attendants On Delta Air Stowaway Flight Were Meant to Check the Toilets For Hitchhikers Before Plane Pushed Back From the Gate – Flight attendants “were meant to have checked the toilets for hitchhikers before the aircraft pushed back from the gate” and “Most commercial airlines have specific procedures in place designed to prevent precisely this kind of scenario whereby a ticketless passenger hides in an onboard lavatory before departure.”

Boeing’s new CEO Ortberg clips corporate jet trips in show of restraint

The 19 members of Boeing’s executive council have access to five Bombardier Challenger 650 business jets and two Boeing 737’s. To cut costs, CEO Kelly Ortberg grounded some of the corporate fleet and asked executives to fly economy on scheduled airline flights. For security reasons, Boeing’s CEO is required to avoid commercial flights, even for personal trips. But Ortberg is relocating to Seattle.

In other cost-cutting moves, Boeing is eliminating 17,000 jobs that include management and making a list of non-core businesses to potentially sell or close. The company canceled the lavash rooftop party at the Singapore Grand Prix, pulled sponsorship of the Washington International Horse Show, sat out a commercial and defense air show in China, and did not attend the annual meeting of Asian airlines.

Mentioned

Discount coupon for The Air Current – $15 for three months. Use coupon code AGPOD for a quarterly subscription. The Coupon is good through December 31, 2024. Note: This is not a sponsored offer.

Hurricane Helene Recap from the Jungle Aviation And Relay Service.

AOPA et al. Update Complaint Protesting California 100LL Ban

Listener Adam on TikTok and YouTube.

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and David Vanderhoof.