Tag Archives: KC-46

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Aviation News

BETA to launch first commercial passenger electric aircraft with Surf Air Mobility

Vermont-based electric aerospace company BETA Technologies announced an Aircraft Purchase Agreement and strategic partnership with Surf Air Mobility Inc. for 25 electric aircraft, starting with the ALIA CTOL aircraft, and options for up to 75 more. Surf Air Mobility plans to launch commercial electric aircraft passenger service in Hawaii. Surf Air also intends to operate a new Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) service center for BETA electric aircraft in Hawaii.

Video: BETA x SURF AIR

BETA offers two aircraft: the ALIA VTOL, a vertical takeoff and landing all-electric aircraft, and the ALIA CTOL, a conventional takeoff & landing all-electric aircraft. Both offer 5-passenger capacity and 200 cubic feet of cargo. BETA Technologies has not yet received full FAA type certification for its aircraft as of mid‑March 2026, although components and test approvals are in place.

KC-135 Crash in Iraq Kills All Six Aboard

U.S. Central Command reported that a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq, killing all six crew members. The KC-135 was supporting operations against Iran. Another KC-135 was involved in the incident and landed safely, reportedly in Israel. U.S. officials said the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Early indications suggest a possible midair collision.

Dassault Unveils Falcon 10X

Dassault Aviation has rolled out the first of four Falcon 10X prototypes at its Bordeaux-Mérignac facility, formally debuting its new flagship ultra-long-range business jet aimed at the top of the market. The Falcon 10X is a clean-sheet design with a 7,500‑nm range and top speed around Mach 0.925–0.95, intended to connect major long-haul city pairs nonstop while flying close to the speed of sound

Video: Dassault’s New Falcon 10X Business Jet Takes Its Debut Bow in Bordeaux – AIN

Southwest Airlines drops 2 big airports from its route map

Southwest wants to boost its profitability and is making some changes. The airline will end service to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington on June 4, 2026. Service to ORD began in 2021 when Southwest expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. But Southwest exited four of the eighteen new markets in 2024.

Malaysia Airlines flight MH370: New update on search – 12 years after it disappeared

Ocean Infinity has recently been searching the Indian Ocean for MH370. After 28 days searching 2,900 square miles, the “no find, no fee” mission was unsuccessful. Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, a Boeing 8777, departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport for Beijing on March 8, 2014, and disappeared shortly thereafter. Under the agreement, Ocean Infinity would be paid $70m (£52m) if the wreckage was located.

USAF general says Boeing has to fix tanker problems before US orders more

In a March 4 hearing, the U.S. Air Force Vice Chief of Staff told lawmakers there would be no more orders for the KC-46 until Boeing fixed problems with the aerial refueling tanker. Past problems included the refueling boom, the visual system, and cracks. Reportedly, Boeing took a $565 million charge in its fourth quarter earnings and has lost more than $7 billion on ⁠the fixed-cost program.

United Airlines Quietly Cracks Down On Buying Multiple Tickets To Save Money, Bans Video Calls And Viewing ‘Offensive’ Content

Additional changes made to United’s Contract of Carriage: video calls are now banned, the ban on back-to-back ticketing is no longer limited to round-trip fares, and you can get kicked off for viewing offensive content.

NTSB Preliminary Report – Bombardier 600 Accident January 25, 2026 Bangor, Maine [PDF]

Holdover time (HOT) likely contributed to the fatal crash. HOT is determined by fluid type and brand, mix ratio, outside air temperature (usually in bands), precipitation type and intensity, and aircraft wing surface material.

Mentioned

Headhu n ters – Sticks and Creations

Hosts this Episode

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

855 Affordable Skies Coalition

The Founder and President of the Affordable Skies Coalition gives travelers a voice in the future of air travel. In the news, the Indian Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau released its preliminary report on the Air India Flight AI171 crash, DARPA ended the cargo seaplane program, the boom on a KC-46 Tanker broke off while refueling an F-22, and releases of toxic firefighting foam remain a problem.

Guest

Jennifer C. Rykaczewski, the Founder and President of the Affordable Skies Coalition. — **Jennifer C. Rykaczewski**

Jennifer C. Rykaczewski is the Founder and President of the Affordable Skies Coalition, a nonprofit founded in December 2024 to give travelers a voice in the future of air travel. It’s an advocacy group dedicated to promoting policies that encourage competition, reduce costs, and protect the right to safe, affordable air travel.

The Coalition is a growing community that shares insights, strategies, and resources to empower the traveler. Their work centers on ensuring air travel remains safe and affordable, while giving Americans, especially those often overlooked in policy and industry conversations, a chance to weigh in on the decisions shaping the future of flying.

Jennifer explains how the Affordable Skies Coalition is advocating on the Hill and getting agreement that there is a need for a consumer advocacy group. We look at legislation such as the Airport Gate Competition Act and the Fast Lane for Youths (FLY) Act.

The Affordable Skies Coalition offers a free membership option that includes a newsletter featuring industry updates, air traveler information, and opportunities to participate in petitions, surveys, and focus groups. A paid premium membership option adds live webinars and exclusive data reports.

Jennifer developed a passion for aviation after meeting her now-husband, who owned a Cessna 182. They flew across the country and all around the East Coast together. He’s an A-10 pilot in the Air Force. Over time, aviation has become an integral part of Jennifer’s life.

Aviation News

Air India Crash Investigation focuses on movement of fuel engine control switches

The Government of India, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau published their Preliminary Report, Accident involving Air India’s B787-8 aircraft bearing registration VT-ANB at Ahmedabad on 12 June 2025 [PDF].

The aircraft achieved a maximum recorded airspeed of 180 Knots, and immediately thereafter, both engine fuel cutoff switches transitioned from Run to Cutoff. In the cockpit voice recording, one of the pilots is heard asking the other why he switched to cutoff. The other pilot responded that he did not do so.

See: The Mystery Deepens Around Air India 171 Crash at Jetwhine.

DARPA ends cargo seaplane program, eyes new uses for tech

The Liberty Lifter was intended to be a long-range, low-cost, heavy cargo seaplane. The wing-in-ground-effect plane was planned with a capacity comparable to that of a C-17 Globemaster. It would have been capable of operating at mid-altitudes of up to 10,000 feet.

Aurora Flight Sciences said, “Through the Liberty Lifter program, we were able to show the viability of the design and the feasibility of novel manufacturing techniques. Aurora is proud of the technical advancements we made through the preliminary design of Liberty Lifter, and we expect to apply these learnings to future programs.”

DARPA awarded contracts in February 2023 to two contractors to develop their own plans. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) partnered with Maritime Applied Physics Corporation to design a twin-hull, mid-wing aircraft powered by twelve turboshaft engines. Boeing subsidiary Aurora Flight Sciences partnered with Leidos subsidiary Gibbs & Cox and with Oregon shipyard ReconCraft and designed a high-wing monohull with eight turbine engines.

Artist image of the Aurora Flight Sciences Liberty Lifter concept on the water. — The Aurora Flight Sciences Liberty Lifter concept.

Boom On KC-46 Tanker Just Broke Off During F-22 Refueling Mission

The KC-46 was based at McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas. The F-22s were launched from Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. The tanker lost its boom off the coast of Virginia. In the audio via LiveATC.net, the crew of the KC-46 (callsign FELL 81) alerts the U.S. Navy’s Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility at Virginia Capes (FACSFAC VACAPES, callsign, Giant Killer) that the boom was lost.

Video: ATC Audio: KC-46 FELL81 boom detached while on a F-22 refueling mission

American Airlines buys last of toxic firefighting foam at Brunswick airport

After a fire suppression system accidentally discharged foam at the former Brunswick Naval Air Base, an area was contaminated with PFAS chemicals. American Airlines has agreed to purchase and remove the remaining AFFF concentrate from the former naval airbase – nearly 6,000 gallons – for $250,000. The Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority will use the money to remove the residual concentrate from fire suppression systems.

Spirit Airlines Grounds 5 Aircraft Amid Detroit Hangar Foam Incident

A lightning strike during a severe storm is suspected to be the cause of the release of corrosive fire suppression foam inside a Spirit maintenance hangar at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) on July 4, 2025. The foam affected two aircraft inside the hangar and three more parked on the adjacent ramp area. The incident may have caused millions of dollars in potential damage. According to reports, even limited exposure to this type of foam can cost approximately $100,000 per aircraft to clean, with severe cases potentially reaching upwards of $10 million in damage.

Mentioned

Micah appeared on the WBZ Boston The World of Aviation radio program.

Iconic Plane (P-2 Neptune) at Brunswick Landing (Former Brunswick Naval Air Station) Has Been Restored

Hosts this Episode

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

838 Aerospace Supply Chain

The aerospace supply chain with the co-founder and CEO of a manufacturing startup, the Airbus A350 production outlook, GE Aerospace Catalyst turboprop certification, a Senate bill to boost the ATC workforce, a call for retired controllers to return to the job, and KC-46 tanker cracks.

Guest

Vishal R. Sanghavi has been a leader in the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry for nearly two decades. He co-founded Jeh Aerospace in 2022 with his long-time colleague Venkatesh Mudragalla. This US-based company manufactures aerospace and defense components.

Vishal describes the reasons for the current aerospace supply chain problems and the demand/supply gap. He notes structural issues such as the difficulty obtaining and retaining workers, inflation, and lack of supply chain transparency. Easing these problems can partly be addressed by viewing supply relationships strategically rather than transactionally. Vishal tells us why OEMs don’t vertically integrate more than they do, and how quality is assured throughout the supply chain.

Vishal is on a mission to build Jeh Aerospace into a technology-driven manufacturing company that will deliver quality parts 10x faster, better, and cheaper. Jeh looks to transform the field with talent and technology creating a digitally native organization that provides data for advanced analytics. Vishal explains factors that influence geographic locations for manufacturing facilities, such as access to talent, cost efficiencies, where the large markets are.

Vishal’s entrepreneurial journey began at the Indian business conglomerate Tata Group, where he built and led large multimillion-dollar businesses and became one of the youngest Chief Experience Officers for the group. He spearheaded numerous aerospace businesses during his tenure, including the Tata Boeing Joint Venture (JV), Tata Sikorsky JV, and Tata Lockheed JV, which manufactures large and complex aerospace systems. Before that, Vishal honed his skills at TCS, where he consulted Fortune 100 companies on business processes and technology.

Vishal is an electronics and telecommunication engineer educated at RAIT, Mumbai University, and is currently pursuing the Smart Manufacturing Program at MIT. Vishal was selected for the TAS program, Tata Group’s premium leadership cadre, and nominated by Boeing for its Organizational Leadership Program at the Boeing Leadership Center (BLC) in St. Louis. He is a certified Gold Assessor of the Tata Business Excellence Model, based on the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award.

Aviation News

Supply Chain Challenges Limit A350 Production to Six Aircraft Per Month, A350F Deliveries Delayed to 2027

Airbus had originally intended to produce about nine A350s per month in 2025. Now it looks like six per month is the most that can be expected. Also, the A350F launch is pushed out to 2027. Supply chain disruptions, including those from component supplier Spirit Aerosystems, are cited as the problem. Airbus reports that the A350 family has 1,363 firm orders from 60 customers, with 644 aircraft delivered as of January 2025. Firm orders for the A350F stood at 63.

GE Aerospace Catalyst Turboprop Engine Gains FAA Certification

The new GE Aerospace Catalyst turboprop engine was announced in 2015 and is planned to power the Beechcraft Denali. The Catalyst Data Sheet [PDF] says the engine family is aimed at the 1200-1400 SHP range; includes integrated digital engine and propeller control; and automatically optimizes fuel flow, prop pitch and speed, bleed valves, and variable stators. As much as 18 percent lower fuel burn and 10 percent higher cruise power compared to competitors in the same size class is claimed.

60-second promotional video: The Catalyst engine for Beechcraft Denali

Transportation Secretary supercharges hiring, Senate bill to bolster workforce

Senators proposed the The Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act of 2025 [PDF] with provisions that include:

FAA Enhanced-Collegiate Training Initiative Program Improvements
FAA Facility Training Equipment Improvements
Air Traffic Controller Qualification & Retention Enhancements
Air Traffic Controller Mental Health Improvements
A report on the Airport Non-Cooperative Surveillance Radar Program (ANSR)

Elon Musk urges retired air traffic controllers to come back

Musk said on X, “There is a shortage of top notch air traffic controllers. If you have retired, but are open to returning to work, please consider doing so.” Previous FAA workforce cuts did not include air traffic controllers. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has said he planned to offer controllers an option to work past the mandatory retirement age of 56. President Trump has made statements saying he favors a new computerized ATC system, rather than improving the current system.

MH370: Search resumes to find missing plane 11 years on and MH370 Search Resumes After a Decade of Silence

MH370 disappeared March 8, 2014. Now, the Malaysian government has approved a resumption of the search by maritime exploration firm Ocean Infinity under a “no find, no fee” arrangement. Using the Armanda 7806 surface vessel and autonomous underwater vehicles, about 15,000 square kilometers will be searched off the coast of Perth in Western Australia.

Cracks In KC-46 Tankers Halt All Deliveries

Boeing discovered cracks on two of four recently delivered planes. The Air Force stated that Boeing “is taking measures to temporarily halt deliveries until we fully understand the root cause and implement an effective corrective action plan.” Also, “The cracks were not found on any flight surfaces or hinges, but rather on the primary or secondary structures.”

Mentioned

Does Airline Safety Correlate with a Diverse Pilot Population?

Goodbye Skype, hello Teams: How Microsoft is making the switch easy. The old, Airplane Geeks Skype-based recording studio, circa 2009:

Graphic of Max Flight's old Skype-based podcasting studio. — Podcasting in the days of Skype and low-bandwidth internet.

Hosts this Episode

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

813 Martin Mars Water Bomber

A Martin Mars water bomber has a new home, the proprotor gearbox failure that caused the Air Force’s fatal Osprey crash, the FAAs new endorsement requirement for flight instructor candidates, and a refueling incident that damaged a KC-46 and an F-15E. Also, an Australia Desk report where Brian Coleman joined Steve and Grant in Australia, and Micah called in.

Aviation News

The Hawaii Mars Water Bomber Finally Arrives At Its Forever Home, The British Columbia Aviation Museum

The Martin Hawaii Mars water bomber is now at its new British Columbia Aviation Museum home. Public access is anticipated to start on September 28. Seven of the four-engine Martin JMR Mars were built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Four were converted to civilian water bombers for aerial firefighting by Forest Industries Flying Tankers in BC.

The Marianas Mars crashed in 1961 during firefighting operations with all four crew members perishing. In 1962, the Caroline Mars was damaged beyond repair by a typhoon. The Hawaii Mars was operated until 2016 and is now at the BC Aviation Museum. The Philippine Mars is planned to go to the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona later this year.

Video: FINAL FLIGHT! Martin Mars Low Pass and Landing in Patricia Bay

Flawed Metal & Failed Communication: Breaking Down the Air Force’s Fatal Osprey Crash

The Air Current reports that a persistent manufacturing problem is the cause behind ten previously unreported V-22 Osprey component failures, in addition to the fatal 2023 crash off the coast of Japan. Furthermore, the problem was well-known to Bell Boeing and the V-22 Joint Program Office (JPO), but pilots were not informed. The crash was caused by the failure of the left-side proprotor gearbox and the pilot’s decision to keep flying. The gearbox failure was most likely caused by cracking in a high-speed pinion gear and its bearing cage. Inclusions in the steel alloy may be the problem.

V-22 proprotor gearbox illustration. — AFSOC CV-22B Accident Investigation Board Report [PDF]

FAA Rolls Out New Endorsement Requirement for Flight Instructor Candidates

Starting September 1, the FAA requires flight instructor candidates to have a CFI endorsement before taking the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) exam. Many other pilot certificates require the applicant to have a “written statement or logbook endorsement from an authorized ground or flight instructor certifying that the applicant completed an applicable ground training or home study course and is prepared for the knowledge test, or a certificate of graduation issued by a part 141 school.” See the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) exam sample questions. The FAA uses PSI Services LLC to provide the written exams.

Audio Reveals Details Of KC-46 And F-15E Refueling Incident That Broke Off The Tanker’s Boom

Last week, a refueling operation supported a temporary flight restriction related to a presidential visit. During the refueling, the U.S. Air Force KC-46A Pegasus tanker and an F-15E Strike Eagle experienced some issues with the hydraulic system, damaging both planes and forcing them to make emergency landings. Air Traffic Control transmissions indicate that the KC-46 lost its boom.

Australia News Desk

The Pacific Airshow Gold Coast was held over the beautiful beaches of Surfers Paradise, Queensland from August 16-18, 2024 and Steve, Grant, AND Brian Coleman were there to capture all the action.

It was the second year of the event, and crowds were noticeably larger than in 2023, with an enhanced and fully loaded flying program comprising local aerobatic performers, military contingents from Australia, the USA and UK, emergency services displays, and much more.

With Micah also on the line, we quiz Brian on his experience travelling to Australia, flying domestic sectors here with Virgin Australia, and the reaction of local flight crews to his custom-made gifts, presented as he boarded each flight.

F-18F Super Hornet in flight. — *RAAF 1SQN F-18F Super Hornet displaying at the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast (credit – G.E.G Aviation Photography)*

Brian Coleman and members of the Freedom Formation at Southport Flying Club, all seated. — *Brian Coleman interviewing members of the Freedom Formation at Southport Flying Club, Queensland, Australia (Steve Visscher)*

First Flight

Micah tells us the story of his first flight, 55 years ago.

Mentioned

The Air Show Podcast, hosted by Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder.

Hosts this Episode

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

723 Boeing MoM

Boeing won’t pursue a new middle-of-the-market airplane, propellers for aviation sustainability, high-wall super suites, passenger detention, large PAX and weight and balance, a KC-46 Class A mishap.

Aviation News

Boeing: “We won’t contemplate a new airplane”

Concerning a Boeing MoM, president and CEO David Calhoun, said, “We won’t contemplate a new airplane; we won’t even put it on the drawing board until we know we’re capable of doing that. So this is strategy for us. Capabilities. And then there’ll be a moment in time where we’ll pull the rabbit out of the hat and introduce a new airplane sometime in the middle of next decade.”

Opinion: Could Propellers Help Solve The Sustainability Conundrum?

The global civil aviation industry has pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 but new technologies will require billions of dollars in investment. Hydrogen, electric and hybrid propulsion, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) have promise, but feasibility and cost-effectiveness concerns remain. But propfans and ducted propellers “might finally be ready for use.”

The Latest in Luxurious First-Class Airplane Suites: Building Up

First-class suites with doors first appeared on the Airbus A380 then spread to other widebodies offering luxury and some degree of privacy. How do the latest class of high-wall super suites from Emirates and Lufthansa deal with the cabin view requirements?

Flight Attendant Physically Detained Passenger Because They Thought He Had Taken a Photograph of Them

The crew didn’t like being photographed and detained a passenger when they believed he’d taken a picture of them.

United Airlines Is Blocking Seats Under New Weight Requirements Per Passenger

The FAA has increased the “standard” weight of men and women which impacts airplane weight and balance. United’s B757s are affected to the degree that at least six seats per flight will be blocked.

AMC Investigating Class A Mishap That Damaged KC-46 Boom, Fuselage

The Air Mobility Command is investigating a potential Class A mishap involving a KC-46 Pegasus tanker that left the plane’s boom and fuselage damaged.

Mentioned

Albuquerque Intl. Balloon Fiesta releases 2022 attendance totals

Pawn Stars at the American Helicopter Museum – Scheduled to air on the History Channel on November 16, 2022.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 50th Anniversary Memorial Monument – Dedication December 29, 2022, at 1:00 pm. Contact flt401memorial@gmail.com for more information. For donations:

By check payable to National Air Disaster Foundation. Note on your check that it is for Eastern 401. 100% of your tax-deductible donation goes toward the memorial. Send your check to: National Air Disaster Foundation, 2020 Pennsylvania Ave NW, #315, Washington, DC 20006.

By credit card visit www.PlaneSafe.org and click Donation.

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, David Vanderhoof, and Max Trescott.

709 Aviation Training

Aviation training at the University of Maine Augusta, Boeing and Airbus orders at Farnborough, Delta TechOps LEAP-1B MRO, a fighter market forecast, an open fan engine demonstrator, dropping the KC-46 co-pilot, electronic bag tags from Alaska Airlines, airline pilots who decide to exit the plane, and rebalancing travel demand and airline capacity.

Aviation Training at the University of Maine Augusta

Aviation training at UMA - the Cirrus SR20. — UMA’s new Cirrus SR20 G6

UMaine at Augusta prepping a new generation of students for the airline industry

The University of Maine Agusta offers aviation training with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation program, through a public-private partnership with Maine Instrument Flight.

On the occasion of UMA’s introduction of their new Cirrus SR20, our Main(e) Man Micah speaks with:

Lt John Warren, Maine Air Guard KC-135 Pilot and UMA Graduate
Maj. Gen. Douglas A. Farnham, Adjutant General, Maine
Amber Kochaver, a recent Program graduate
Dr. Joseph Szakas, Interim President UMA
Greg Jolda, Aviation Program Director

Dr. Szakas flying the VR Simulator with Greg Jolda

UMA SR20 Being Admired - Gen Farnum and Greg Jolda — UMA SR20 Being Admired – Gen Farnum and Greg Jolda

Note that UMA also offers a program for remote pilots flying small unmanned aircraft or drones. The 8-course UAS certificate program allows you to become a certified FAA remote pilot.

Aviation News

Longtime EAA President Tom Poberezny dies as AirVenture 2022 kicks off

Experimental Aircraft Association president Tom Poberezny has died at the age of 75. Tom was EAA president from 1989-2010 and succeeded his father, EAA founder Paul Poberezny. EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board Jack Pelton said, “It is not lost on us that Tom’s passing occurred on the opening day of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the event he led into world prominence as its chairman beginning in the 1970s.”

Boeing Arrives with Max Order Boon from Delta, ANA

At the 2022 Farnborough Airshow, Delta Air Lines ordered 100 Boeing 737 Max 10 jets with options for 30 more. All Nippon Airways ordered twenty 737 Max 8s and two 777-8F cargo variants.

Boeing Smokes Airbus at Farnborough Airshow

Boeing received 172 firm orders at Farnborough while Airbus saw 85 orders. However, Airbus holds a much more significant backlog than Boeing and received a commitment for 292 jets from Chinese customers recently.

Delta TechOps to provide maintenance services for next-gen LEAP engines

Delta TechOps will become a provider of MRO services for CMFI LEAP-1B engines. Delta TechOps provides support for Delta’s fleet of aircraft and more than 150 other aviation and airline customers worldwide.

Forecast International: Fighter Aircraft Market Worth $260B over Next 10 Years

Forecast International released a new study, “The Market for Fighter Aircraft” ($2050). The company projects over 3,855 fighters built from 2022 through 2031. In 2022 dollars, that represents $281.4 billion.

Airbus and CFM International launch a flight test demonstrator for advanced open fan architecture

Airbus and CFM International are collaborating on an open fan (open rotor or unducted fan) engine architecture. The Flight Test Demonstrator is under CFM’s Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engine (RISE) technology demonstration program. Testing is on an A380 with the engine replacing the usual #2 engine.

Air Force Considers Dropping KC-46 Co-Pilot on Some MIssions

The Air Force’s Air Mobility Command is thinking about reducing crew size on Boeing KC-46 Pegasus tankers during dangerous missions. The concern is that a conflict in the Indo-Pacific region could involve a Chinese anti-aircraft missile attack. Tankers are particularly vulnerable. Reducing the number of airmen onboard a tanker would minimize casualties.

This airline is launching electronic bag tags to speed up airport check-in

Alaska Airlines is selectively rolling out electronic bag tags that can be activated up to 24 hours before a flight with the Alaska Airlines mobile app. At the airport, touching your phone to the tag will display flight information. No check-in is required. The program starts at San Jose International Airport in California.

Captain Walks Off Alaska Airlines Flight After Fighting With First Officer

It was a disagreement between the two after a 90-minute weather delay. Following an announcement by the pilot, the plane returned to the gate. Live and Let’s Fly claims “a credible source” said the captain was arguing with ramp agents and barking orders.

Captain, Crew Abandon Passengers In Burning Plane

Reportedly, after an explosion and smoke on a Vueling plane, the captain and most of the crew ran out of the plane leaving passengers to fend for themselves.

It could be up to 3 years before flight capacity and pilot supply are ‘back in sync,’ American Airlines CEO says

CEO Robert Isom told investors the surge in demand is outpacing staffing levels. Mainline route capacity should be sufficient in about a year. Regional routes could take two or three years.

Mentioned

American Helicopter Museum Voted Best Museum for Families

History of El Avion

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, David Vanderhoof, Max Trescott, and Rob Mark.

675 NBAA-BACE

Highlights from NBAA-BACE, including the HondaJet 2600 Concept Light Jet, Cirrus Vision Jet, and Diamond all-electric trainer. Also, a KC-46 tanker update, airline ticket refunds, FA smuggling, a passenger who was not a terrorist, an Australia News Desk report, and a story from our Main(e) Man Micah.

NBAA-BACE

Highlights from the 2021 edition of the NBAA-BACE from the National Business Aviation Association.

Aviation supply chain faces mounting strain as demand picks up

Global shipping, supply chain, and labor issues are affecting aviation with component delays and increasing raw material prices. Skilled worker shortages are also occurring.

HondaJet Launches New 2600 Concept Light Jet at NBAA BACE

Honda displayed a mockup of the HondaJet 2600 Concept that will feature a transcontinental range of 2,625 nm. Honda Aircraft president and CEO Michimasa Fujino:

“New conditions in the business aviation industry have signaled the need for rapid cross-country travel and the ability to carry more passengers and payload and dire necessity of cutting carbon emissions. In response we developed the HondaJet 2600 Concept, which delivers a transcontinental range of 2,625 nautical miles, with seating for up to 11 occupants.”
Honda Aircraft president and CEO Michimasa Fujino

Cirrus Brings Latest Jet to NBAA-BACE

The Cirrus Aircraft SF50 G2+ Vision Jet is the successor of the G2. The G2+ adds new features including increased engine performance, Gogo Wi-Fi, and new color configurations. The Williams International FJ33-5A engine modifications produce a 20 percent improvement in takeoff performance in hot-and-high conditions.

Diamond Announces Plans to Create All-Electric Trainer

The Diamond Aircraft eDA40 will be targeted to flight school training fleets. First flight is planned for the second quarter of 2022 with certification following in 2023. The EDA40 is expected to have about a 90-minute flight time and a recharge turnaround time of about 20 minutes, said Heikenwälder.

Aviation News

AMC Green Lights KC-46 to Refuel F-15s, F-16s; 62 Percent of Receivers Now Cleared

The Air Mobility Command has cleared KC-46A tankers for air-to-air refueling using the boom. This is the third “interim capability release”

Battles are being waged over airline refunds. Passengers aren’t always winning.

The Department of Transportation recently reported that in the 18 months starting in January 2020, it received 124,918 consumer complaints related to air travel. Over 84 percent of them concerned ticket refunds. The Department of Transportation has launched investigations into 20 airlines but 18 of them are still pending.

American Airlines Flight Attendant Busted Allegedly Smuggling Gold Bars, Rolex Watches and Cash On Flight to Miami

The 57-year-old head purser was arrested in Argentina on suspicion of trying to smuggle the loot on a flight from Buenos Aires to Miami. Her luggage contained 2,204 grams of gold, Rolex watches, other jewelry, thousands of Pesos, and US$ 11,413.33. The flight attendant is accused of smuggling and money laundering.

Man who was pinned to ground as a terrorist at LaGuardia was held after fellow flyer mistook his vintage camera for a bomb

American Airlines Flight 4817, from Indianapolis to LaGuardia, made an emergency landing and emergency slide evacuation after a woman accused another passenger of having a bomb. The “terrorist” was simply watching vintage camera videos and handling his own old camera.

Australia News Desk

Steve and Grant bring news from Down Under:

More details around Defence’s proposed MH-60R buy

RAN MH-60R Seahawk helicopter ditches in the Philippine Sea

QANTAS Brings Forward International Flights to 1 November

Virgin Australia to return to international flights

Stereotypes on the Q400 – Reprise

A story from our Main(e) Man Micah.

640 Australian Women Pilots

Amazing true stories of Australian woman pilots, predicting the air travel recovery, airline response to shifting demand, flying across the Atlantic on the jetstream, roles for USAF tankers, preventing cabin crew from disappearing, and an Alaska Airlines sweepstakes for lovers.

Guest

Kathy Mexted, author of Australian Women Pilots.

Kathy Mexted is a writer, photographer, and editor of AirSport Magazine from Sport Aircraft Association Australia, a general aviation organization. She’s written for several publications and her recently published book is titled Australian Woman Pilots, Amazing True Stories of Women in the Air.

Kathy’s book tells the stories of ten Australian women pilots, and we look at three in particular. Gaby Kennard flew around the world in a Saratoga, mostly following Amelia Earhart’s route. In a ferrying operation, Lyn Gray had to ditch a Seminole 500 miles off Hawaii, requiring a U.S. Coastguard operation. Patricia Toole flew cargo and passenger flights in rugged and dangerous New Guinea. Meeting Patricia just before her death motivated Kathy to tell the inspiring stories of these women pilots.

Aviation News

Air travel recovery likely pushed back to 2022

The optimism that the Covid vaccine would quickly turn everything around for the travel industry may have been premature. We see the slow pace of vaccinations, which may not prevent you from transmitting the virus to others, mutations popping up, closed borders, and no consensus on so-called “vaccine passports.” The International Air Transport Association that in a worst-case scenario, passenger traffic may only improve by 13 percent this year.

Airlines Are Ditching Business Hubs and Rerouting Flights to Florida

Leisure travel is showing signs of life, but business travel is not. Since convenience is important to leisure travelers, airlines are responding with more direct routes.

Fly like the wind: Pilots are about to cross the Atlantic in a whole new way

More than 1,300 flights used to occur daily over the North Atlantic. Radar cannot cover the entire distance, so to maintain safe separation, the organized track structure (OTS) was created. Safe, but not the most efficient. However, Reading University researchers found that over the course of a typical winter, a 2.7% saving on carbon emission per passenger could be obtained if aircraft flew routes that took advantage of the wind.

Air Force Hunts for Ways to Use Not-Quite-Ready Tankers

The behind-schedule Boeing KC-46 tankers are still in testing because of the improvements needed for its refueling system. In addition, two problems exist with the plane’s auxiliary power unit. The Air Mobility Command is “exploring limited operational capability for the KC-46.”

Airline to confiscate cabin crew’s passports after second flight attendant goes missing during layover

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) said it will confiscate cabin crew passports during layovers. Twice now flight attendants have gone missing for the return leg of a round-trip.

Alaska Airlines offers pandemic’s locked-down lovers a chance at free flights

This offer expired, but Alaska Airlines held a contest where 100 couples won roundtrip tickets. The “Booking for Love Sweepstakes” requested stories from couples who had “a long-distance love that began during the lock down or was separated by stay-at-home orders.”

AirVenture Oshkosh 2021 Update

Planning for the 2021 event continues, but with Covid-19 protocols in place. Get the latest information at the EAA page for Oshkosh 2021 Covid updates.

FAA Creates Gateways for new Presidential TFR

AOPA has been working with the FAA and other agencies since October to gather information about how future presidential TFRs might impact general aviation operations, part of a yearslong effort spanning many administrations to mitigate the economic damage and inconvenience that these restrictions can cause.

Mentioned

DARPA Disc Rotor Helicopter and other projects

Video: DARPA/Boeing DiscRotor

A Curator Special: The Impossible Case of MH370, a special episode of the podcast Monocle 24: The Curator from Monocle.

Hampton Roads Helicopters, a full-service aviation company for both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft based at Hampton Roads Executive Airport (PVG).

572 Pickle Fork Cracks

We discuss the erosion of manual piloting skills, pickle fork cracks in the B737NG, the EC review of Boeing’s interest in Embraer, a helicopter crash “close to home,” an “MCAS-like” system on the KC-46 tanker, tracking stealth fighters with passive radar, Delta’s proposed stake in LATAM, and Delta’s rules change for emotional support animals.

Aviation News

EAA Creating Hands-On Build-And-Fly R/C Model Building, Flying Program

EAA and the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) have unveiled a new “Young Eagles Build and Fly” program. This is designed to engage youth in hands-on building and flying of radio-control aircraft.

Unexpected cracking found on critical Boeing 737 Next Generation part

Some Boeing 737NGs are exhibiting pickle fork cracks. These are structures that connect the wing to the fuselage and transmit the load to the fuselage as the wings flex. The pickle forks are reportedly meant to last a lifetime so the cracking is of some concern.

You Can Fly Challenge tops its goal

More than $2.8 million was contributed by more than 5,000 individual donors to the 2019 AOPA You Can Fly Challenge. The 2019 challenge exceeded expectations and the Ray Foundation voted to increase its matching grant to $2.5 million. In total, more than $5.3 million in new funding was provided for You Can Fly.

FAA urges ICAO to address erosion of ‘manual’ piloting skills

Flightglobal reports that the FAA has concerns about pilots who cannot handle the aircraft when the automation fails. Some pilots have inadequate manual flying skills. The FAA believes ICAO standards and guidance need to evolve as automation continues to expand. Daily bulletins are available from ICAO’s 40th Assembly in Montreal September 24 through October 4, 2019.

Boeing, Embraer Deal Faces EU Scrutiny

The European Commission wants to look at Boeing’s plan to take a controlling interest of Embraer’s commercial business, despite previously approving Airbus’ purchase of the Bombardier CSeries.

Bowdoinham man severely injured in helicopter crash at Sanford airport

A Robinson R44 helicopter crashed at the Sanford, Maine airport. Pilot Jack White, 50, was transported to the hospital with “severe injuries.”

Boeing omitted safeguards on 737 MAX that were used on military jet

A system similar to MCAS is used on the KC-46 tankers, but for a different reason: to compensate for load changes. The tanker version, however, uses two AOA indicators instead of one on the 737 MAX.

USAF Reviewing Training After MAX 8 Crashes; KC-46 Uses Similar MCAS

The Air Force is watching to see if there are any implications for the KC-46.

Stealthy no more? A German radar vendor says it tracked the F-35 jet in 2018 — from a pony farm

German radar-maker Hensoldt claims to have tracked two F-35s for 150 kilometers following the 2018 Berlin Air Show in Germany in 2018. The TwInvis system passive radar system uses existing electromagnetic energy from radio and TV broadcast transmitters and evaluates their echoes when reflected by an object.

Delta is buying 20% of LATAM, Latin America’s largest airline

LATAM Airlines, formerly LAN Airlines S.A. and Lan Chile, is a OneWorld Alliance member. Delta Air Lines is planning to take a 20% stake in the airline for $1.9 billion says they’ll spend $350 million to expand the partnership. LATAM will be exiting the OneWorld alliance. No word if they will join SkyTeam led by Delta.

Delta lifts ban on emotional support animals on long flights, but pit bulls are still barred

Delta lifted its ban on emotional support animals on flights longer than eight hours. This puts them back in compliance with the Department of Transportation. However, Delta continues to ban pit bulls, even though breed bans are not allowed.

Mentioned

Collings Foundation Wings of Freedom Tour

544 NBAA Regional Forum

Reports from NBAA’s Regional Forum in Houston, attacking the pilot and mechanic shortage, and NBAA’s top safety focus areas. Wo look at the Boeing 737 Max, AOA indicators, MCAS, and the certification process. Also, a Southwest Airlines labor agreement, more coin tosses for good luck, B-52 re-engining, famous aviation siblings, Red Bull air races, and the Boeing 747.

Aviation News

Flawed analysis, failed oversight: How Boeing and FAA certified the suspect 737 MAX flight control system

The original safety analysis that Boeing delivered to the FAA for MCAS understated the amount of horizontal stabilizer movement that the system ultimately provided.

Pilots offer insights on Boeing 737 crashes

A good explanation on how the system was meant to make the control forces feel the same as older 737s, and how either pilot can easily just turn the system off.

Airlines with buyers’ remorse may use Boeing 737 MAX ban to revise orders

Comments from analysts suggest that “airlines that over-ordered the latest version of Boeing’s 737 workhorse, the grounding could be a good excuse to delay or cancel purchases, saving cash on the balance sheet.”

Southwest Airlines’ new mechanics contract gives immediate 20 percent pay hike

After six years of negotiations, Southwest Airlines and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association have an agreement in principle for a new five-year contract.

Air Force resumes KC-46 deliveries after Boeing changes inspections

After passing a foreign object debris inspection, Boeing has been giving the go-ahead to resume KC-46 tanker deliveries.

Lucky Air flight #8L9616 delayed because two passengers tossed coins to aircraft engine for good luck

It’s happened again. This time two women were observed tossing coins at the engine as they boarded the aircraft.

NBAA Regional Forum

Airplane Geeks Reporter-at-Large Launchpad Marzari attended the 2019 NBAA Regional Forum March 14, 2019, in Houston Texas. He recorded these interviews:

Blain Stanley, Aircare International Emergency Procedures Instructor on fire training classes for aircraft crew.

NBAA Senior Manager of Flight Operations and Regulations Brain Koester on ADS-B in corporate aircraft.

Dave Brown, Sales Manager at Garmin, on jets and ADS-B.

Russell Otowchits, Regional Sales Manager with Gogo Business Aviation on inflight connectivity.

Raymond Goyco from Baker Aviation, the maker of fireproof bags for lithium-ion fires. Aircraft Specialties, Inc. is the sole U.S. stocking dealer for the HOT-STOP® ‘L’ Fire Containment Kit.

Also….

NBAA’s Bolen Asks Industry To Be Bizav Ambassadors

NBAA chief executive Ed Bolen says business aviation industry’s next big test is the pilot and maintenance technician shortage. Interest in business aviation careers needs to be generated among young people. Ed has some suggestions on how to accomplish that.

Prior to the Forum, the NBAA Safety Committee identified the 2019 NBAA Top Safety Focus Areas and provided many good supporting resources.

Mentioned

PaxEx Podcast: Max Flight and Mary Kirby on why no-MAX flight.

January/February 2019 Air Force Magazine: Re-Engining the B-52 and The Air Force Wants to Install New Engines on the B-52 Bomber.

Ross Macpherson Smith and Keith Macpherson Smith, the first pilots to fly from England to Australia, in 1919.

Video: Auckland from the Skies (1918) – Charles F. Newham – Auckland Museum Collection.

Qantas introduces twin sister pilots.

Credit

Outtro by Bruno Misonne.