Flight Safety Information - April 14, 2025 No. 075 In This Issue : Incident: Skywest CRJ7 at Dallas on Apr 11th 2025, cabin did not pressurize : Incident: China Airlines A359 over South China Sea on Apr 13th 2025, engine shut down in flight : Incident: American B772 near Memphis on Apr 10th 2025, smoke in cabin : Incident: Gol B38M at Miami on Apr 9th 2025, rejected takeoff due to engine failure : Incident: Hawaiian A332 at Los Angeles on Apr 11th 2025, rejected takeoff due to nose wheel trouble : Incident: Transavia France B738 near Porto on Apr 10th 2025, one iPad too many on board : Mitsubishi MU-2B-40 Solitaire - Fatal Accident (New York) : American Airlines Dallas to London Flight with 777 Diverted to Memphis : Boeing 787 Lavatory May Break Free in Flight Injuring Crew and Pax: FAA : Ex Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines Airbus A380s Getting Scrap Amid 777X Delays : Delta Airlines Refuses to Absorb Tariffs on Airbus Aircraft : Human Immune System Inspires Revolutionary Aviation Safety Framework : America Needs Pilots, So JetBlue is Bringing up Their Own : Fastest Business Jet in the World Nears Completion in Canada : FAA says company whose sightseeing chopper crashed, killing 6, is ceasing operations immediately : Hawker 800XPi - Landing Overun Accident (Morocco) : FAA Wants To Drop FSS Radio Network : Calendar of Events Incident: Skywest CRJ7 at Dallas on Apr 11th 2025, cabin did not pressurize A Skywest Airlines Canadair CRJ-700 on behalf of American Airlines, registration N741EV performing flight AA-6269 from Dallas Ft. Worth,TX to San Angelo,TX (USA), was climbing through FL200 out of Dallas when the crew stopped the climb and decided to return to Dallas Ft. Worth reporting they had lost cabin pressure. The aircraft landed safely back on Ft. Worth's runway 36L about 30 minutes after departure. A replacement CRJ-700 registration N760SK reached San Angelo the following morning with a delay of about 11 hours. The occurrence aircraft is still on the ground in Dallas 58 hours after landing. https://avherald.com/h?article=52671d83&opt=0 Incident: China Airlines A359 over South China Sea on Apr 13th 2025, engine shut down in flight A China Airlines Airbus A350-900, registration B-18908 performing flight CI-753 from Taipei (Taiwan) to Singapore (Singapore), was enroute at FL390 over the South China Sea about 220nm northeast of Nha Trang (Vietnam) when the crew decided to return to Taiwan due to the failure of the right hand engine (Trent) and shut the engine down. The aircraft drifted down to FL240, turned around and diverted to Kaohsiung (Taiwan) for a safe landing on runway 09 about 3 hours after leaving FL390. A replacement A330-300 registration B-18306 is estimated to reach Singapore with a delay of about 9 hours. The occurrence aircraft is still on the ground in Kaohsiung about 6.5 hours after landing. https://avherald.com/h?article=52671033&opt=0 Incident: American B772 near Memphis on Apr 10th 2025, smoke in cabin An American Airlines Boeing 777-200, registration N761AJ performing flight AA-154 form Dallas Ft. Worth,TX (USA) to London Heathrow,EN (UK), was enroute at FL370 about 180nm northeast of Memphis,TN (USA) when the crew decided to turn around and divert to Memphis reporting smoke in the forward cabin. The aircraft landed safely on Memphis' runway 36C about 40 minutes later. A replacement Boeing 777-200 registration N760AN reached London with a delay of about 24 hours. The occurrence aircraft is still on the ground in Memphis on Apr 12th 2025. https://avherald.com/h?article=52667765&opt=0 Incident: Gol B38M at Miami on Apr 9th 2025, rejected takeoff due to engine failure A Gol Transportes Aereos Boeing 737-8 MAX, registration PR-XMY performing flight G3-7749 from Miami,FL (USA) to Brasilia,DF (Brazil), was accelerating for takeoff from Miami's runway 08R when the crew rejected takeoff at low speed (about 30 knots over ground) due to an engine (LEAP) emitting a loud bang and streaks of flames. The crew indicated to ATC they needed to return to the apron and vacated the runway the next turn off. A passenger reported the aircraft was beginning the takeoff roll when an engine emitted loud noise and streaks of flame. The cockpit instructed cabin crew to be in their positions and be ready. The aircraft taxied to the apron, the passengers disembarked normally. The flight was cancelled. The aircraft is still on the ground in Miami on Apr 12th 2025. https://avherald.com/h?article=526671c9&opt=0 Incident: Hawaiian A332 at Los Angeles on Apr 11th 2025, rejected takeoff due to nose wheel trouble A Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A330-200, registration N361HA performing flight HA-33 from Los Angeles,CA to Kahului,HI (USA), was accelerating for takeoff from Los Angeles' runway 24L when the crew rejected takeoff at high speed (about 100 knots over ground). The aircraft slowed safely and vacated the runway at the end and taxied to the apron. The FAA reported: "The crew of Hawaiian Airlines Flight 33 safely aborted takeoff from Los Angeles International Airport around 8 a.m. local time on Friday, April 11, due to an unstable nose wheel. The Airbus A330 was headed to Kahului Airport in Hawaii. The FAA will investigate." The aircraft was able to depart about 3:50 hours later and is estimated to reach Kahului with a delay of 3:45 hours. https://avherald.com/h?article=5265e87a&opt=0 Incident: Transavia France B738 near Porto on Apr 10th 2025, one iPad too many on board A Transavia France Boeing 737-800, registration F-HTVP performing flight TO-7646 from Paris Orly (France) to Lisbon (Portugal), was enroute at FL370 about 100nm eastnortheast of Porto (Portugal) when the crew reported an unidentified object on board subsequently identifying the object as an iPad that did not belong to anyone on board. The crew decided to divert to Porto. On approach to Porto the crew declared Mayday due to the unidentified object. The aircraft landed safely on Porto's runway 35 about 25 minutes later. The aircraft remained on the ground for about 90 minutes, then continued the journey and reached Lisbon with a delay of about 2 hours. https://avherald.com/h?article=5265efa6&opt=0 Mitsubishi MU-2B-40 Solitaire - Fatal Accident (New York) Date: Saturday 12 April 2025 Time: c. 12:05 LT Type: Mitsubishi MU-2B-40 Solitaire Owner/operator: Dynamic Spine Solutions LLC Registration: N635TA MSN: 458SA Year of manufacture: 1985 Fatalities: Fatalities: 6 / Occupants: 6 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Destroyed Category: Accident Location: near Copake, NY - United States of America Phase: En route Nature: Private Departure airport: White Plains-Westchester County Airport, NY (HPN/KHPN) Destination airport: Norwood Memorial Airport, MA (OWD/KOWD) Confidence Rating: Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources Narrative: A Mitsubishi MU-2B-40 Solitaire crashed near Copake, New York, during an attempt to divert to Columbia County Airport (1B1), Hudson. The six occupants perished and the aircraft was destroyed. The FAA originally posted that two people were on board before correcting it to six. https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/497772 American Airlines Dallas to London Flight with 777 Diverted to Memphis After being airborne for over an hour, the crew reported a smoke in the forward cabin. DALLAS- American Airlines (AA) flight from Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) to London Heathrow (LHR) was diverted to Memphis International Airport (MEM) on April 10, 2025. According to a published schedule, American Airlines operates five daily flights between Dallas Fort Worth, and London Heathrow using the Boeing 777 fleet. American Airlines Flight Diverted According to FlightRadar24 data, American Airlines flight AA154 took off from Dallas at 2:31 UTC. After being airborne for over an hour, the crew reported a smoke in the forward cabin. Following this, American pilots decided to make a precautionary landing at Memphis. The flight landed safely on runway 36C at Memphis approximately 40 minutes after initiating the diversion procedure. at MEM at 4:22 UTC, Aviation Herald reported. The aircraft involved in the incident is a Boeing 777-200ER registered as N761AJ. Further, it is a 23.1-year-old aircraft powered by RR Trent 800 engines. It took two days for the American Airlines tech ops team to make the aircraft airworthy again. Similar Incident American Eagle flight AA5406, operated by PSA Airlines, made an emergency evacuation at Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) after smoke filled the cabin upon landing from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). The Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft landed safely around 9:50 a.m. local time on Tuesday, April 1, but passengers were forced to evacuate via the wings when smoke was detected in the cabin. Video footage captured by passenger Sean O’Conor showed travelers carrying luggage as they were helped down from the wing. Dramatic scenes unfolded at Augusta Regional Airport when passengers aboard American Eagle Flight 5406 were forced to evacuate via the aircraft’s wings following the detection of smoke in the cabin. The incident occurred immediately after the aircraft had completed what appeared to be a normal landing from its Charlotte route. “It smelled like the brakes were burning or something, the cabin was filled with smoke, and we climbed out on the wing,” stated a passenger in video footage that has since circulated widely. The footage shows passengers carefully making their way down from the wing of the regional jet while carrying their personal belongings. According to official statements, all passengers successfully evacuated the aircraft and were escorted to the terminal building by airport staff. Following an inspection of the aircraft, airport officials determined that an electrical issue had caused the haze inside the cabin. Airline Remarks American Airlines promptly addressed the incident in an official statement: American Eagle Flight 5406, operated by PSA Airlines, with service from Charlotte Douglas International Airport to Augusta Regional Airport, experienced a maintenance issue after landing safely in Augusta. All passengers deplaned and were escorted to the airport terminal. The safety of our customers is our top priority, and we apologize for the inconvenience.” American Airlines Official Statement The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that they have launched an investigation into the incident. An FAA spokesperson verified that https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/04/13/american-airlines-dallas-london-flight-diverted-to-memphis/#google_vignette Boeing 787 Lavatory May Break Free in Flight Injuring Crew and Pax: FAA The directive would affect approximately 159 U.S.-registered Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. WASHINGTON- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a new Airworthiness Directive (AD) affecting Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 aircraft. This action comes after reports of corrosion on lower fitting assemblies of certain lavatories. The corrosion stems from the galvanic interaction between aluminum and carbon fiber in the wet environment of the lavatory. If left unaddressed, this corrosion could cause lavatories to break free during high g-force events, as per the FAA report. Boeing 787 Lavatory Issues Boeing 787 aircraft are facing a safety concern with their lavatories, according to a recent FAA proposal. The agency has identified corrosion problems on lower fitting assemblies of Jamco family 95/96 lavatories caused by galvanic interaction between aluminum and carbon fiber components in the wet lavatory environment. This corrosion could cause lavatories to break free during high g-force events, potentially injuring passengers and crew or blocking emergency exits. The proposed Airworthiness Directive (AD) would require airlines to inspect the affected components for corrosion, record findings, make necessary repairs, and update maintenance programs to include regular inspections. The directive would affect approximately 159 U.S.-registered Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. Required Inspections and Maintenance The directive would require airlines to: Perform detailed inspections of the eight lower fitting assemblies and centerline partition threshold of Jamco family 95/96 lavatories Record findings on modification record placards Complete necessary repairs if corrosion is found Update maintenance programs to include regular inspections of lavatory vertical side forward fittings Estimated Costs Implementation costs are estimated at $7,650 per operator, based on approximately 90 work hours at $85 per hour. The parts manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty, potentially reducing the financial impact on airlines. Boeing has issued Special Attention Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB250302-00 RB, Issue 001, dated August 21, 2024, which outlines the procedures for inspection and repair. This document serves as the technical basis for the FAA’s directive. Legal Authority The FAA issues this directive under its aviation safety authority granted by Title 49 of the United States Code. The agency has determined the proposal would not have significant federalism implications under Executive Order 13132 or substantial economic impacts on small entities. After the comment period ends, the FAA will review feedback before issuing a final directive. Once implemented, airlines must comply within the specified timeframes unless they receive approval for alternative methods of compliance from the FAA. Bottom Line The FAA’s proposed directive addresses a critical safety issue with Boeing 787 lavatories where corrosion on lower fitting assemblies could cause these units to detach during high g-force events. If implemented, the directive will require airlines to conduct detailed inspections of the 8 lower fitting assemblies and centerline partition threshold of affected Jamco family 95/96 lavatories, perform necessary repairs, and update their maintenance programs. Airlines have until May 22, 2025, to provide comments on the proposal. This action is necessary to prevent potentially serious injuries to passengers and crew, as well as to ensure clear evacuation routes remain accessible during emergencies. https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/04/13/faa-proposes-new-ad-for-boeing-787-lavatories/ Ex Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines Airbus A380s Getting Scrap Amid 777X Delays With this Airbus collaboration, VAS will have managed 13 A380 dismantlements, solidifying its expertise in handling the superjumbo aircraft. BOCA RATON- VAS Aero Services has been selected by Airbus to oversee the teardown of three Airbus A380 aircraft and manage the resale of used serviceable material (USM). These aircraft will be disassembled at Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées Airport (LDE) in France. The project enhances VAS Aero Services’ track record in Airbus A380 teardown operations, marking their involvement in dismantling 13 A380 aircraft to date. The harvested parts will support airline operators and MROs facing increasing demand for A380 components, especially as Boeing’s 777X remains delayed. Airbus A380s Getting Scrap VAS Aero Services, a leader in aviation aftermarket solutions, has been tasked by Airbus to teardown three A380 aircraft at Tarmac Aerosave’s facility in Tarbes/Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport (LDE). This project builds on VAS’s prior success, including its 2018 partnership with Dr. Peters Group for the first-ever A380 teardown. With this Airbus collaboration, VAS will have managed 13 A380 dismantlements, solidifying its expertise in handling the superjumbo aircraft. The process involves breaking down airframes having MSN 61, 66, and 84 which were part of Lufthansa (LH) and Malaysia Airlines (MH) harvesting high-value components, such as avionics, landing gear, and engine parts, for resale as used serviceable material (USM). The harvested parts will be strategically positioned in Europe, leveraging VAS’s robust sales network to serve maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers and airlines across the EMEA region. Notably, the aircraft’s line-replaceable unit (LRU) engines will be offered for lease or dismantled for in-demand USM components. This initiative addresses a critical market gap, as the A380 remains a key player in long-haul travel, with approximately 175 aircraft still in operation globally, flown by operators like Emirates (EK) and Singapore Airlines (SQ). The timing of this project aligns with market dynamics. Delays in Boeing’s 777X deliveries now pushed to at least 2026, have increased reliance on A380s to meet capacity demands for large, long-haul routes. This has strained the availability of quality USM parts, making VAS’s role pivotal in sustaining the global A380 fleet. By recycling end-of-life aircraft, VAS not only supports operational needs but also maximizes the residual value of retired airframes, offering lessors and operators a strong return on investment. Aircraft Retirement as a Revenue Opportunity According to VAS CEO Tommy Hughes, the initiative highlights how retiring aircraft can generate strong returns. “We identified the A380 platform early as a growing aftermarket opportunity,” Hughes noted. “This program allows us to turn aircraft retirement into revenue while supporting global fleet needs with quality components.” VAS Aero Services positions itself as a reliable partner in maximizing asset value at the end of an aircraft’s life cycle. Through a combination of expert teardown management, extensive resale channels, and global logistics, the company continues to deliver measurable outcomes to the aviation aftermarket. Future Outlook The A380’s role in aviation persists despite production ending in 2021, as operators extend the service life of existing fleets. With no new superjumbo aircraft entering the market soon, the pressure on spare parts availability will likely intensify. VAS’s proactive investment in A380 dismantlement positions it to capitalize on this trend, supporting the global fleet while generating revenue from recycled components. As the aviation industry navigates supply chain challenges, VAS’s expertise in aftermarket services offers a blueprint for balancing operational needs with economic and environmental considerations. https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/04/13/airbus-a380s-getting-scrap-amid-777x-delays/#google_vignette Delta Airlines Refuses to Absorb Tariffs on Airbus Aircraft Delta Air Lines has taken a firm stance against paying the newly imposed tariffs on incoming Airbus aircraft, setting a potential precedent for how other U.S. carriers might respond to the current trade policies. As of April 13, 2025, the aviation industry is facing significant uncertainty as airlines, including Delta, evaluate how to manage aircraft deliveries in a volatile tariff environment created by recent U.S. trade policies. Delta’s Stance on Tariffs and Aircraft Deliveries During Delta’s Q1 earnings call, CEO Ed Bastian made it clear that the airline would not absorb the additional costs of tariffs imposed on Airbus aircraft deliveries. “We will not be paying tariffs on any aircraft deliveries we take,” Bastian said, indicating that Delta intends to defer deliveries rather than accept the financial burden. The current 10% tariff on Airbus planes, which was paused for at least 90 days, could impact Delta’s scheduled deliveries, including A350-1000, A330-900, and A220 aircraft. Delta’s position reflects the airline’s ongoing reliance on Airbus aircraft as part of its fleet renewal program. The new tariffs represent a significant challenge to Delta’s strategy of replacing older, less efficient planes with modern, fuel-efficient models. Bastian also emphasized that the cost of acquiring aircraft with a 20% tariff would make the math for these acquisitions difficult to justify, citing the financial strain it would place on the airline. Tensions with Airbus and the Broader Industry Impact Delta’s hard-line stance on tariffs has created tensions with Airbus, which has previously suggested that it might prioritize deliveries to clients outside the U.S. if tariffs disrupt the import process. Despite this, Delta has confirmed that it is working closely with Airbus to find a resolution that minimizes the impact of the tariffs. The tariff dispute has far-reaching implications for the aviation industry, with the potential to delay aircraft supplies and engines, which U.S. airlines typically order years in advance. As tariff confusion continues, the industry faces the risk of disrupted schedules and delayed deliveries, affecting both fleet expansion and replacement strategies. United Airlines’ More Reserved Position In contrast to Delta’s firm stance, United Airlines (UA) has taken a more reserved approach to the issue. CEO Scott Kirby expressed support for the U.S. administration’s tariff policies, arguing that the measures are designed to foster economic growth and create more jobs within the United States. However, this position appears contradictory, given the potential negative impact of tariffs on the airline’s international business. While United’s support may reflect an effort to maintain a positive relationship with the administration, it raises questions about the broader implications of such policies on the aviation sector. Economic analysts have noted that airlines’ revenue is closely linked to GDP growth, making policies that could hinder trade and economic stability concerning for U.S. carriers. Uncertainty Among Other U.S. Airlines The broader industry response to the tariffs has been mixed, with many major U.S. airlines, such as American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, remaining silent on the matter. This silence could indicate a wait-and-see approach, with airlines evaluating how the situation develops before making any public statements or changes to their procurement strategies. The lack of clear responses from other carriers creates uncertainty about whether Delta’s approach will become the industry standard or remain an outlier. Airlines often face similar pressures and may eventually align with Delta’s stance if the tariff situation continues. Economic Implications and Industry Uncertainty The evolving tariff situation has introduced significant complexity into aircraft procurement decisions for U.S. airlines. Historically, the aerospace sector has operated under a tariff-free agreement, making the current environment an unprecedented challenge. The uncertainty surrounding these policies has caused confusion in the supply chain, with some shipments of engines facing delays as companies work to comply with changing trade regulations. As U.S. airlines, Airbus, and other stakeholders navigate this complex landscape, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether a resolution will be reached. What is clear, however, is that the current tariff dispute represents a significant disruption in long-established global aerospace cooperation, potentially impacting the aviation industry for years to come. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/delta-airlines-refuses-to-absorb-tariffs-on-airbus-aircraft/ Human Immune System Inspires Revolutionary Aviation Safety Framework Aviation experts have unveiled a groundbreaking safety approach inspired by the human body’s natural defense mechanisms, potentially transforming how we protect increasingly complex air transportation systems from known and unknown risks. In a review paper published in the journal Engineering, researchers propose a novel safety framework called “system-of-systems (SoS) safety” that draws inspiration from the human immune system to address emerging challenges in future air travel scenarios. “With the anticipated growth in air traffic complexity in the coming years, future civil aviation transportation system (CATS) is transforming into a complex cyber–physical–social system, surpassing all previous experiences in the history of civil aviation safety management,” the paper states. The shift toward this new approach comes at a critical time. While global aviation has achieved remarkable safety levels – with fatal accident rates below 0.2 per million flights for nearly a decade – researchers warn this stability might become difficult to maintain as air traffic volume and complexity continue to grow. According to the study, passenger traffic is projected to increase 4.3% annually over the next two decades, resulting in more than 200,000 daily flights by the mid-2030s. This growth brings unprecedented challenges, particularly with the emergence of urban air mobility (UAM) – flying taxis and delivery drones operating in densely populated areas. Booz Allen Hamilton forecasts that UAM could generate up to 11 million daily trips under unconstrained scenarios – a staggering 244 times the Federal Aviation Administration’s current average daily flight volume. Lead author Daqing Li and colleagues analyzed the evolution of aviation safety across four generations, noting that each new wave of technology initially led to higher accident rates before safety improvements followed. This pattern raises serious concerns about integrating numerous cutting-edge technologies into future aviation systems. “If we apply the 2022 civil aviation safety level to the UAM scenario, the number of daily accidents will reach a staggering 0.77, equating to two fatal accidents every three days,” the researchers calculate. The proposed SoS safety framework borrows key principles from human immunology. Just as our immune system constantly defends against various threats through layers of protection, the researchers envision a three-tiered defense strategy for aviation: The first line relies on regulatory constraints to prevent known risks, similar to physical barriers like skin preventing pathogens from entering the body. The second line provides real-time monitoring and intelligent decision-making to address emerging threats, comparable to the body’s innate immune response. The third line focuses on identifying and understanding unknown risks through digital engineering and simulation – akin to the adaptive immune system that learns to recognize new threats. “The SoS safety concept indicates the transition from ‘process and outcome-oriented’ to ‘capability-oriented’ intelligent safety management,” the researchers explain. Implementation of this framework is expected to unfold in three phases over the coming decades. Phase one focuses on enhancing operational resilience through technologies like 5G air-to-ground communications and IoT sensors. Phase two extends safety capabilities to the design process, while phase three aims to achieve full integration between design and operation through artificial intelligence. Several aviation organizations have already begun exploring resilience management approaches, including American Airlines, Lufthansa, Ryanair, and air traffic control providers like EUROCONTROL. Although developed for aviation, the researchers believe their approach could benefit other complex systems facing similar challenges. “SoS safety can serve as a guiding framework and methodology for safety engineering in most large-scale complex systems, such as internet of vehicles, emergency systems, and cyber-physical systems,” they conclude. With air taxis potentially filling urban skies within the decade, this immune-inspired approach to safety management may prove essential for maintaining public confidence in the future of flight. https://scienceblog.com/human-immune-system-inspires-revolutionary-aviation-safety-framework/ America Needs Pilots, So JetBlue is Bringing up Their Own Ask any airline CEO what challenges they’re facing… and each one of them will likely cite “pilot shortage” as one of the biggest. ‍NEW YORK — Ask any airline CEO what challenges they’re facing… and each one of them will likely cite “pilot shortage” as one of the biggest – if not the biggest – obstacle to overcome. Air travel is in demand, and that demand is quickly increasing. The problem is that there simply aren’t enough qualified pilots to keep up with that trend. And, to make matters worse, becoming a commercial pilot became even more difficult over the last four years. In 2013, the FAA upped the qualification hours for first officers who fly for U.S. passenger or cargo airlines from 250 to 1,500 – an astounding 500 percent increase. While the shortage is a very real problem, New York-based JetBlue is doing what they can to stay ahead of the game. The airline hires hundreds of new pilots each year, recruiting through their various “pathways” – programs that pave the way for aspiring pilots to assume flying careers. One such pathway – “Gateway Select” – is an aptitude-based program the airline says will help make the profession more accessible by attracting a broader, more diverse range of candidates. Application Process Open for Second Cycle of Gateway Select Program Gateway Select applicants go through a series of assessments based on the airline’s own selection criteria and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) pilot competencies. Selected trainees complete a rigorous four-year program comprised of classroom learning, real-world flight experience and instruction in flight simulators – ultimately becoming JetBlue first officers. The first six-candidate cohort just completed the airline-focused training portion of the program and are in the process of working toward their FAA-required hours of flight time. With the next cohort set to complete the education portion of the program in winter 2017, JetBlue has opened the application process for the second cycle of the program. After reviewing applications, JetBlue will select 24 candidates who will be divided into two groups of 12 – the first dozen to start early next year. Warren Christie, JetBlue’s senior vice president of safety, security and air operations, is optimistic for the second cycle, after they saw great success the first time around. “We were very pleased with the interest we saw when we opened the first round,” Christie said. “In two weeks we had more than 1,500 applications, and we’re excited to see an equivalent number this time.” Inspiring Humanity through Flight The first group of trainees have extremely diverse backgrounds, ranging from a former heavy machine operator to a supermarket clerk and an accountant. Christie says they performed extremely well throughout the program. “JetBlue’s mission is to inspire humanity, and I think this program is really inspiring to individuals who didn’t see a pathway to becoming an airline pilot,” he said. The first cohort has now moved on to the fourth phase of the program: returning to CAE in Phoenix for 12 weeks of additional FAA licensing requirements. During this phase, trainees become certified flight instructors (CFIs), and then earn their CFII (instrument) qualifications and ratings before ultimately becoming entry-level salaried instructors for CAE to work toward the required 1,500 hours of flight time. For phases one through three, the trainees spent two weeks at JetBlue University in Orlando to learn the fundamentals of aviation, moved on to 30 weeks of training at CAE’s Oxford Aviation flight academy in Mesa, Arizona to develop core flying skills, and ultimately returned to JetBlue University for additional training. After the trainees meet the FAA and Gateway Select requirements, they become pilots at JetBlue, where they take part in the same orientation and six-week instruction that all first officers are required to complete. Gateway Select costs $125,000 per trainee for the full four-year program, which breaks down to roughly $8,300 a month. Wells Fargo will offer up to $80,000 in financing, still leaving about $3,000 per month that trainees will need to pay out of pocket. However, that tuition is all-inclusive: lodging, meals for a significant portion of the training and examiner fees are all covered. “We continue to look for ways to make it as affordable as possible,” Christie said. A Rewarding Way to Meet the Need and Expand the Profession For Christie, watching the candidates succeed and being a part of their success has been the most rewarding part of the program. “I can tell you from having conversations with the first group of candidates that if it wasn’t for a program like Gateway Select, they would not have pursued a career in commercial aviation,” he said. JetBlue starts new hire classes every other week, and so far, they’ve had no problem filling all of their classes, with projections showing they shouldn’t face problems in the future either. “As we continue to grow, it’s important that we provide these pathways so that we can get the qualified pilots we need to grow our airline,” Christie said. JetBlue offers seven pathway programs, including University Gateway, Transition Gateway and qualified first officer recruiting among others. “We’re always interested in looking at opportunities to expand the profession and make it more accessible,” he said. Simply put, through Gateway Select and all of JetBlue’s pathway programs, the airline set out to make the commercial pilot profession more accessible, and so far, it’s working. “From the individuals we’ve selected, it really validates what we’re trying to achieve.” Aspiring pilots are encouraged to visit JetBlue Pilots to apply to the program. https://www.airwaysmag.com/legacy-posts/america-needs-pilots-jetblue Fastest Business Jet in the World Nears Completion in Canada The Global 8000 is expected to be the fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde, delivering a top speed of Mach 0.94. TORONTO- Bombardier’s Global 8000, the world’s fastest purpose-built business jet, is now in final assembly and progressing on schedule at the company’s state-of-the-art facility in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada. The aircraft recently completed flight missions to Europe from its testing hub in Wichita (ICT), showcasing the capabilities of Bombardier in real-world conditions. With a top speed of Mach 0.94 and a range of 8,000 nautical miles, the Global 8000 is set to redefine business aviation. Bombardier Global 8000: World’s Fastest Business Jet The Bombardier Global 8000 is on schedule for its 2025 debut, with production progressing smoothly at the state-of-the-art Aircraft Assembly Centre in the Greater Toronto Area, near Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). Major components have been delivered as planned, and the aircraft is moving through a high-tech manufacturing process. The jet’s Flight Test Vehicle has already demonstrated its capabilities, completing missions to Europe from Bombardier’s Wichita facility. Test pilots have praised its performance under real-world conditions, highlighting its reliability and agility. The Global 8000 is expected to be the fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde, delivering an industry-leading top speed of Mach 0.94. Its 8,000-nautical-mile range enables nonstop travel between long-haul city pairs such as: Dubai (DXB) – Houston (IAH) Singapore (SIN) – Los Angeles (LAX) London (LHR) – Perth (PER) Flight testing missions conducted from Wichita (ICT) to Europe have proven the jet’s high-performance characteristics in diverse conditions. These missions affirmed its short-field takeoff and landing capabilities, allowing access to smaller airports that are typically unavailable to aircraft in this category. Stephen McCullough, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Product Development at Bombardier, emphasized the jet’s unique short-field capabilities. Unlike competitors, the Global 8000 can access smaller airports, providing flexibility for operators who value convenience. This feature, combined with its speed and range, positions the jet as a top choice for discerning clients seeking to optimize their travel schedules. Comfort and Design Beyond performance, the Global 8000 excels in passenger comfort. It features four distinct living spaces, a dedicated crew rest area, and the longest seated cabin length in its class. The cabin is engineered to be the healthiest in the industry, with advanced air quality systems and ergonomic design to enhance productivity and relaxation during long flights. These elements cater to high net-worth individuals (HNIs) and corporate operators who demand luxury and functionality. David Murray, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing, IT, and Bombardier Operational Excellence System, noted the dedication of the engineering and production teams. Their expertise ensures the jet meets ambitious targets for quality and performance, reinforcing Bombardier’s reputation for craftsmanship. According to Bombardier leadership, the continued success of the Global 8000 program is a result of engineering precision and world-class teamwork. As manufacturing advances, the integration between Bombardier’s global teams remains seamless, with a consistent focus on performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Stephen McCullough, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Product Development, emphasized that the Global 8000’s combination of range, speed, and airport accessibility makes it a top-tier choice for business aviation customers. Bottom Line As the Global 8000 nears its planned entry into service, anticipation is building among operators and aviation enthusiasts. Its ability to combine speed, range, and comfort addresses the evolving needs of global business travelers. By offering access to smaller airports and enabling long-haul routes, the jet provides unmatched flexibility. Bombardier’s rigorous testing and manufacturing processes underscore its commitment to delivering a reliable, high-performing aircraft. With final assembly on track, the Global 8000 is set to redefine what’s possible in private aviation when it takes flight in 2025. https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/04/13/fastest-business-jet-in-world-nears-completion/#google_vignette FAA says company whose sightseeing chopper crashed, killing 6, is ceasing operations immediately NEW YORK (AP) — The Federal Aviation Administration said Sunday that the helicopter tour company whose sightseeing chopper broke apart in flight and crashed in New York, killing the pilot and a family of five visitors from Spain, is shutting down operations immediately. The FAA, in a statement posted on X, also said it would launch an immediate review of New York Helicopter Tours' operating license and safety record. The move came hours after New York Sen. Chuck Schumer had called on federal authorities to revoke the operating permits of New York Helicopter Tours. The company's sightseeing helicopter broke apart in midair and plunged into the Hudson River Thursday, killing the tourists from Spain and the pilot, a Navy SEAL veteran. At a news conference Sunday, before the announcement by the FAA, Schumer said the company should be required to halt all flights as the National Transportation Safety Board investigates the deadly crash. The Senate Democrat minority leader also called on the Federal Aviation Administration to ramp up safety inspections for other helicopter tour companies, accusing them of “cutting corners and putting profits over people.” The victims included passengers Agustin Escobar, 49, his wife, Mercè Camprubí Montal, 39, and their three children, Victor, 4, Mercedes, 8, and Agustin, 10. The pilot was Seankese Johnson, 36, a U.S. Navy veteran who received his commercial pilot’s license in 2023. “One of the things we can do to honor those lives and try to save others is to make sure it doesn’t happen again,” Schumer said. “We know there is one thing for sure about New York City’s helicopter tour companies: they have a deadly track record.” Thursday's crash has renewed safety concerns about New York's sightseeing excursions, a popular tourist draw that whisks passengers high above the city, offering soaring views of the Statue of Liberty, the World Trade Center and other landmarks. In the last two decades, five helicopters on commercial sightseeing flights have fallen into the Hudson and East rivers as a result of mechanical failures, pilot errors or collisions, killing 20 people. The president of New York Helicopter Tours, Michael Roth, did not respond to phone and email inquiries. The company said in a statement published on its website that it was cooperating with authorities in the investigation. In response to Schumer's calls for more oversight, an industry group, Eastern Region Helicopter Council, said Manhattan’s sightseeing choppers "already operate under the most stringent of regulations.” “We stand ready to work with leaders on finding ways to ensure the safety and preservation of our businesses and aviation community,” the group said. Critics of the industry have long sought to limit or entirely ban nonessential helicopter flights from taking off above the city, though they have had limited success. After New York City capped the number of flights that could take off from Manhattan heliports at 30,000 annually in 2016, many companies moved operations to New Jersey. Two years later, in 2018, five people died when a helicopter offering “open door” flights crashed in the East River after a passenger’s restraint tether snagged on a fuel switch, stopping the engine. The cause of Thursday’s crash is not yet determined. According to Schumer, rescue divers were continuing to search for the helicopter's main rotor and assembly gear box, which would give clues about what happened. https://www.yahoo.com/news/schumer-seeks-halt-flights-york-175411274.html Hawker 800XPi - Landing Overun Accident (Morocco) Date: Friday 11 April 2025 Time: c. 15:11 LT Type: Hawker 800XPi Owner/operator: Air Ocean Maroc Registration: CN-TKC MSN: 258670 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 3 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Destroyed Category: Accident Location: Fès-Saïss Airport (FEZ/GMFF) - Morocco Phase: Landing Nature: Unknown Departure airport: Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK/GMMX) Destination airport: Fès-Saïss Airport (FEZ/GMFF) Confidence Rating: Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources Narrative: A Hawker 800XPi, CN-TKC, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident at Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ/GMFF), Morocco. The three occupants were injured. It appears the aircraft overran runway 09 after landing. https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/496295 FAA Wants To Drop FSS Radio Network Radio calls to FSS have dropped by 99 percent in the past 20 years. The FAA intends to decommission the radio network that allows pilots to contact Flight Services by radio. In a Notice of Intent published late last month in the Federal Register, the agency says hardly anyone uses the service anymore because they use their phones and computers. "In the mid-1980s, Flight Service received 22,000 service requests per day across this network, while today they receive fewer than 300 per day," the agency said in the notice. "In turn, from over 350 Flight Service stations with over 3,000 employees 40 years ago, there are now only two (2) facilities with fewer than 200 specialists." Emergency frequencies will be monitored by ATC. The system operates and maintains 936 frequencies on the mainland and in Hawaii and Puerto Rico. It costs millions of dollars a year. It would appear the service will be retained in Alaska. The FAA is accepting comments on the plan until May 27 by mail at 800 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20591, ATTN: Manager, Flight Service, Safety & Operations, AJR-B1 or online at www.regulations.com quoting docket FAA-2025-0558. https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/faa-wants-to-drop-fss-radio-network/ CALENDAR OF EVENTS · AIA Conference: The Aviation Insurance Association's annual conference in Orlando, Florida from April 25–28, 2025 . 70th annual Business Aviation Safey Summit (BASS), May 6-7, 2025, Charlotte, N.C., organized by Flight Safety Foundation in partnership with NBAA and NATA. · Sixth Edition of International Accident Investigation Forum, 21 to 23 May 2025, Singapore · Flight Safety Foundation - Aviation Safety Forum June 5-6, 2025 - Brussels . 2025 EASA-FAA International Aviation Safety Conference, 10 Jun 2025 to 12 Jun 2025, Cologne, Germany · The 9th Shanghai International Aerospace Technology and Equipment Exposition 2025; June 11 to 13, 2025 . 3rd annual Asia Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety (AP-SAS), July 15-17, 2025, Singapore, organized by Flight Safety Foundation and CAAS. . Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar 2025; 10-11 September 2025; Manila, Philippines · ISASI ANNUAL SEMINAR 2025'September 29, 2025 – October 3, 2025, DENVER, COLORADO . 29th annual Bombardier Safety Standdown, November 11-13, 2025; Wichita, Kansas · CHC Safety & Quality Summit, 11th – 13th November 2025, Vancouver, BC Canada Curt Lewis