Flight Safety Information - April 24, 2025 No. 083 In This Issue : Incident: Ivoire A319 at Johannesburg on Apr 23rd 2025, loss of cabin pressure : Incident: Buzz B38M at Budapest on Apr 22nd 2025, engine failure : Incident: Sky Lease B744 at Santiago de Chile on Apr 19th 2025, rejected takeoff due to engine problem : United Pilots Go-Around Amid Aeromexico 737 on Denver Runway : All Nippon Airways Pilot And New York ATC Involved in Argument : FAA Sees Results from Targeting Hotspot Airports : Embraer adopts 3D inspection technology to boost aircraft maintenance : Airbus to source titanium from Saudi Arabia as part of aircraft deal : Boeing Seeks New Buyers for Up to 50 Aircraft Not Taken Up by China : United Invests in Next Generation Blended Wing Aircraft Start-Up JetZero : Texas Pilot Sentenced after Threatening Voicemail : Flyadeal confirms Airbus jet order for long-haul expansion : Gulfstream’s G700 Jet Sets the Brand’s 700th Speed Record : Boeing has a $1 billion China problem — and a fix : Laser incidents targeting airplanes surge in Washington state : Calendar of Events Incident: Ivoire A319 at Johannesburg on Apr 23rd 2025, loss of cabin pressure An Air Cote Ivoire Airbus A319-100, registration TU-TSZ performing flight HF-9030 from Johannesburg (South Africa) to Kinshasa (DR Congo), was climbing through FL310 out of Johannesburg when the crew initiated an emergency descent to Fl100 and decided to return to Johannesburg. The aircraft landed safely on runway 21R about 45 minutes after departure. The aircraft had not been able to depart for flight HF-903 Johannesburg-Kinshasa and further on to Abidjan (Cote Ivoire) on schedule on Apr 22nd 2025 and thus departed with a delay of about 18 hours. According to information The Aviation Herald received both bleed air systems failed causing the loss of pressurization. The scheduled flight had been cancelled due to a technical malfunction. The aircraft is still on the ground in Johannesburg about 17 hours after landing back. https://avherald.com/h?article=526d8711&opt=0 Incident: Buzz B38M at Budapest on Apr 22nd 2025, engine failure A Buzz Boeing 737-8 MAX on behalf of Ryanair, registration SP-RZU performing flight FR-5570 from Budapest (Hungary) to Sofia (Bulgaria), was climbing out of Budapest's runway 31L when the crew stopped the climb at 4000 feet reporting an engine (LEAP) failure advising, they had heard a loud bang and assume severe engine damage as result of a bird strike. The aircraft entered a hold while the crew was working the checklists and returned to Budapest for a safe landing on runway 31R and taxied to the apron. The flight was cancelled. The aircraft is still on the ground in Budapest about 18 hours after landing. https://avherald.com/h?article=526d8046&opt=0 Incident: Sky Lease B744 at Santiago de Chile on Apr 19th 2025, rejected takeoff due to engine problem A Sky Lease Cargo Boeing 747-400 freighter, registration N904AR performing flight GG-4550 from Santiago (Chile) to Miami,FL (USA), was accelerating for takeoff from Santiago's runway 17R when the crew rejected takeoff at high speed (about 160 knots over ground). The aircraft slowed safely, vacated the runway at the last turn off and stopped on the parallel taxiway, where all 16 main and body tyres deflated. Airport emergency services reported the crew rejected takeoff due to a problem with one of the engines (CF6). The aircraft is still on the ground in Santiago on Apr 23rd 2025. https://app.constantcontact.com/pages/dashboard/home United Pilots Go-Around Amid Aeromexico 737 on Denver Runway ATC ordered the crew to perform a go-around because the Boeing 737 MAX 9 belonging to Aeromexico (AM) performing flight AM658 had not yet left the active runway. DENVER- Chicago-based carrier, United Airlines (UA), performed a go-around at Denver International Airport (DEN) after an Aeromexico plane was slow to exit the active runway on April 22, 2025. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported the incident and said the go-around is a safe maneuver. United Go-Around at Denver According to FlightRadar24 data, United Airlines flight UA2151 took off from New York, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) at 14:48 UTC. After being airborne for around four hours, the flight crew was prepared to land at Denver and was on final approach. However, ATC ordered the crew to perform a go-around because the Boeing 737 MAX 9 belonging to Aeromexico (AM) performing flight AM658 had not yet left the active runway. Here’s the ATC conversation captured by LiveATC.net and shared by CBS News on Instagram: The FAA, in its report, stated: An air traffic controller instructed United Airlines Flight 2151 to perform a go-around at Denver International Airport because an aircraft was slow to exit the runway. The event occurred around 12:40 p.m. local time on Tuesday, April 22. The required separation was maintained. FAA Chicago-based carrier, United Airlines (UA), performed a go-around at Denver International Airport (DEN) after an Aeromexico plane was slow to exit the active runway on April 22, 2025. What is Go-Around? Aviation safety protocols include a vital procedure called the go-around, which occurs when an aircraft aborts its landing approach and rejoins the landing queue. This maneuver activates when landing conditions fail to meet safety requirements and can be initiated by either pilots or air traffic controllers. Multiple situations trigger go-arounds in aviation operations. Pilots execute this procedure when encountering unstabilized final approaches where aircraft speed, altitude, or positioning parameters fall outside acceptable ranges. Air traffic controllers order go-arounds when the separation between aircraft becomes insufficient or when communication problems develop between ground control and flight crews. Additionally, airport vehicles inadvertently entering runways sometimes necessitate last-minute flight path adjustments. The aviation industry considers go-arounds essential safety tools rather than operational failures or problems. A typical go-around creates only a 10-15 minute delay while prioritizing passenger and aircraft safety above scheduling considerations. This procedure represents one of many safeguards embedded within aviation protocols to maintain the industry’s exceptional safety record. Similar Incident An American Airlines (AA) flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) executed an emergency go-around procedure Friday afternoon (March 28, 2025) when air traffic controllers identified a runway conflict. Flight AA 938 aborted its landing at approximately 1:19 PM when controllers instructed the crew to pull up due to a small aircraft still occupying the designated runway. The Airbus A321 immediately climbed steeply away from its approach path and entered a holding pattern for approximately 20 minutes before receiving clearance to land safely. This standard safety maneuver prevented a potential collision on the runway. CNN contributor Lulu Garcia-Navarro, who was aboard the flight, described the experience on the social media platform X: “We sort of took a very steep ascent. I started praying because I was scared.” Flight tracking data from FlightAware confirmed the aircraft had nearly reached the runway threshold before executing the abrupt maneuver. Multiple passengers reported feeling disoriented during the unexpected climb. One passenger told Channel 9’s Joe Bruno that the experience was “pretty crazy,” noting that observing fellow travelers’ reactions heightened the sense of alarm. Another passenger remarked, “About 20 minutes of going around in circles, but I will take that over hitting another plane on the runway.” Despite the tense situation, the flight crew maintained professional composure throughout the incident. A passenger recounted: “I was looking out the window, thinking we were about to touch down in Charlotte, and then, nope. The pilot calmly announced, ‘Yeah, the runway was supposed to be vacated, but we have to make a change of plan.’ Sounds like a crisis was averted.” https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/04/24/united-pilots-go-around-amid-aeromexico-737-on-denver-runway/ All Nippon Airways Pilot And New York ATC Involved in Argument The interaction escalated when the controller criticized the pilot’s comprehension, despite the ambiguity of his own instructions. NEW YORK- A heated argument between an All Nippon Airways (ANA) pilot and a New York (JFK) air traffic controller (ATC) on March 2, 2025, highlights ongoing issues with non-standard communication at one of the world’s busiest airports. The incident, involving a Boeing 777, stemmed from unclear taxi instructions and non-standard ATC phraseology. ANA Pilot and New York ATC Argument On March 2, 2025, an All Nippon Airways (NH) flight pilot preparing for departure requested taxi clearance to New York (JFK) ATC. The controller responded with “You’re on request,” a phrase not recognized in standard International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) terminology. Confused, the ANA pilot repeated the request, prompting the controller to insist on his phrasing rather than clarifying with standard language like “Standby for taxi.” The interaction escalated when the controller criticized the pilot’s comprehension, despite the ambiguity of his own instructions. ICAO mandates clear, standardized phrasing to prevent such misunderstandings, especially at busy international hubs like JFK, where pilots may have varying English proficiency. The exchange unfolded as follows: ATC: “You’re on request. As soon as this aircraft lands, I’ll get you moving.” ANA Pilot: “All Nippon Airways 159 heavy, sorry, say again.” ATC: “You’re on request.” ANA Pilot: “Oh, we request runway 31L, All Nippon 159 heavy.” ATC: “You are on request.” ANA Pilot: “All Nippon 159 heavy, request taxi via A1, left turn A…” ATC: “All Nippon 159 heavy, I don’t know if you’re not familiar, it seems like you’re not. When somebody says ‘you are on request,’ that means they have your request. That’s it. Just wait.” ANA Pilot: “So you mean we can taxi by our own, All Nippon 159 heavy?” ATC: “All Nippon 159 heavy, absolutely not. ‘You’re on request’ just means just wait. You don’t say anything. You just wait for the controller, which is me, okay? Just wait.” ANA Pilot: “Okay, holding position, All Nippon 159 heavy.” ATC: “Yes, I have your request. That’s what that means.” This dialogue reveals a communication breakdown, driven by the controller’s reliance on non-standard terminology and an unwillingness to adapt when the pilot struggles to understand. Non-Standard Phraseology The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) establishes standardized phraseology to ensure clear communication between pilots and controllers, especially at international hubs like John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Terms like “standby” or “hold position” are globally recognized, minimizing the risk of misinterpretation. However, the controller’s use of “you’re on request” deviates from these standards, creating confusion for the ANA (NH) pilot, who may not be accustomed to such phrasing. JFK’s status as a major international airport amplifies the need for adherence to ICAO standards. Pilots from diverse linguistic backgrounds operate daily, and non-standard terms can exacerbate language barriers. In this case, the controller’s insistence on his phrasing, rather than switching to a clearer alternative like “standby,” prolonged the misunderstanding and heightened tensions. Aviation safety relies on precise communication, and deviations from standard protocols can introduce unnecessary risks. Controller Under Scrutiny The controller’s tone during the exchange drew significant attention for its condescension. Rather than assisting the ANA (NH) pilot, the controller scolded him for not understanding the non-standard phrase, stating, “I don’t know if you’re not familiar, it seems like you’re not.” This approach not only failed to resolve the confusion but also added unnecessary friction to an already high-pressure environment. Air traffic control is inherently demanding, requiring focus and professionalism under stress. At JFK, where traffic volume is among the highest globally, controllers face intense workloads. However, this incident reflects a pattern of attitude-driven interactions associated with certain JFK controllers, as noted by aviation enthusiasts who regularly monitor ATC audio. While most controllers maintain professionalism, this exchange highlights how individual behavior can undermine effective communication. FAA Receives nearly 58,000 applicants for 1,500 air traffic control job positions Concerns Around ATC While the JFK controller in question is not new to criticism for abrasive interactions, this specific incident highlights a broader concern: professionalism in high-stakes environments. Air traffic control is inherently stressful, but it also demands clarity, calmness, and cooperation. Controllers serve a critical safety function and are expected to facilitate communication, not complicate it. Situations like this one reinforce the need for oversight and continued training for air traffic controllers in international phraseology and cultural sensitivity. With aviation becoming more globalized, effective communication between pilots and controllers must remain a top priority. Bottom Line The misunderstanding between the All Nippon Airways pilot and the JFK air traffic controller could have been avoided with the use of standardized ICAO phraseology. The pilot acted respectfully and repeatedly sought clarification, while the controller’s choice of words and tone led to unnecessary tension. As international traffic increases, incidents like this underscore the need for strict adherence to universal communication standards in aviation. https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/04/24/all-nippon-airways-pilot-new-york-atc-involved-in-argument/ FAA Sees Results from Targeting Hotspot Airports Acting FAA Administrator Rocheleau highlighted areas that still need work In an April 22 update from acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau, the FAA highlighted positive results from analysis of hotspot airports and other high-risk areas. This effort is a result of the January 29 midair collision at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (KDCA) between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and a PSA Airlines CRJ, killing all 67 people on both aircraft. Following release of the NTSB’s preliminary report on the midair collision, Rocheleau testified before the U.S. Senate on March 27, outlining plans “to analyze other airports that have both charted helicopter routes and nearby airplane traffic.” This effort includes assessing offshore helicopter operations in the Gulf and “using machine learning and language modeling to scan incident reports and mine multiple data sources to find themes and areas of risk.” The FAA also permanently restricted non-essential helicopter operations and eliminated mixed helicopter and fixed-wing traffic around KDCA. The FAA’s analysis has already uncovered issues at Harry Reid International Airport (KLAS) in Las Vegas, such as “agreements with local helicopter operators [that] require them to avoid arrival and departure corridors that lack defined vertical or lateral measurements.” Air tour helicopters returning to the airport and arriving and departing airplanes were not receiving traffic advisories from tower controllers, according to Rocheleau, “resulting in a routine lack of compliance with Class B separation rules.” After requiring positive control over helicopters and the issuance of more traffic advisories to pilots, “the number of traffic alert and collision avoidance system reports decreased by 30% in just three weeks,” he said. More actions are planned for the Las Vegas area, and the FAA is examining issues at other airports. Another area of focus is the mix of faster- and slower-moving airplanes, and the FAA is already examining traffic flows around Hollywood Burbank (KBUR) and Van Nuys (KVNY) airports in Southern California. “They’re less than 10 miles apart, each serve a wide mix of aircraft, and they have closely spaced arrival and departure paths,” Rocheleau said. On April 22, the FAA outlined the work on hotspot airports during a rotorcraft safety roundtable attended by FAA personnel, rotorcraft associations, safety organizations, and rotorcraft operators. “But while the recent public focus has been on interactions between helicopters and airplanes, the core rotorcraft safety issues remain operations and maintenance,” Rocheleau said. “The top causes of accidents are loss of control, striking an object during low-altitude operations, and both unintentional and intentional flight into instrument meteorological conditions.” The FAA asked roundtable attendees for ideas on safety improvements, and some of the suggestions included: “more FAA involvement in sponsoring peer pilot programs to encourage greater participation; ensure FAA inspectors are trained consistently in applying the safety management system (SMS) rule; FAA-industry partnerships to improve SMS outreach; increased use of aircraft technology and simulation; evaluate how the FAA approves training simulators; expansion of the FAA’s weather camera system; and expand instrument flight rule routes that allow helicopters to safely navigate at lower altitudes.” Finally, Rocheleau highlighted a new aviation rulemaking committee (ARC) formed to respond to a 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act requirement to improve commercial air tour safety. “While we began this work months before the air tour helicopter crash in the Hudson River,” he said, “that accident underscored that aviation safety is not static. There is always room for improvement.” The ARC’s first meeting is planned for May 20, and its members will submit recommendations by late September. “While flying remains the safest mode of transportation,” he concluded, “we must always strive to do better. We have to identify trends and get smarter about how we use data. And when we put corrective actions in place, we must execute them.” https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2025-04-23/faa-sees-results-targeting-hotspot-airports Embraer adopts 3D inspection technology to boost aircraft maintenance Embraer has taken another step forward in advancing its maintenance operations by integrating 8tree’s innovative dentCHECK inspection tool into its aircraft services facility in Nashville. Embraer has taken another step forward in advancing its maintenance operations by integrating 8tree’s innovative dentCHECK inspection tool into its aircraft services facility in Nashville. This move underscores Embraer’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive efficiency and precision across its global support network. dentCHECK is the aviation industry’s only portable, fully wireless 3D scanner with integrated augmented reality. Specifically designed for aircraft maintenance, the tool delivers instant “go/no-go” analysis at the push of a button, dramatically reducing the time required for dent and surface inspections compared to traditional methods. The introduction of dentCHECK is set to benefit Embraer’s entire fleet, including both commercial and executive jets, by improving inspection accuracy and accelerating turnaround times. This enhancement supports Embraer’s goal of minimising aircraft downtime while maintaining the highest standards of service. Implementation of the tool will begin immediately, with comprehensive training and rollout across Embraer’s maintenance teams to ensure seamless integration. Frank Stevens, vice president of global MRO centres for Embraer Services & Support, said: “We are pleased to partner with 8tree to keep adopting the best-in-class tools to support our customers. We expect that dentCHECK will help us to optimise even more the efficiency of our maintenance operations in Nashville.” Arun Chhabra, chief executive of 8tree, said: “This partnership underscores our shared vision of leveraging technology to enhance aviation maintenance operations and deliver superior value to operators worldwide. https://www.aviationbusinessnews.com/mro/latest-news-mro/embraer-adopts-3d-inspection-technology-to-boost-aircraft-maintenance/ Airbus to source titanium from Saudi Arabia as part of aircraft deal: Bloomberg Airbus is turning to Saudi Arabia as a source of titanium, Bloomberg reported. The deal is reportedly part of a broader agreement through which the Kingdom’s national airline, Saudia Group, is ordering 20 A330neo aircraft (10 firm orders plus 10 options). The 2.5 billion Riyal contract (€585 million / US$666.5 million) was signed on April 23, 2025, in parallel with an announcement from flyadeal, Saudia’s low-cost carrier, for an order of 10 A330-900neo aircraft to expand internationally. The supply of Saudi titanium will help the European aircraft maker alleviate its scarcity after sanctions disrupted supply from Russia, which is the world’s main producer. Titanium is essential in the manufacture of modern airliners. Both Airbus and its rival, Boeing, which even had a joint venture with Russian firm VSMPO-AVISMA, were reliant on Russian titanium for many parts of their aircraft. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led to the halt of direct supplies from Russia, but it has been reported in the media that Russian titanium has continued to make its way to the two aircraft makers through intermediaries. Titanium: How war has reshuffled supply of a key aerospace material For quite some time, Saudi Arabia has been looking to expand its role in the global titanium market as part of a national strategy to develop aerospace-linked industries. In 2023, Saudi Minister of Energy Abdulaziz bin Salman stated that significant deposits of titanium had been found in the Kingdom and a large titanium sponge plant has also been set up in Yanbu, on the Kingdom’s Red Sea coast, operated by a joint venture between Saudi firm AMIC and the Japanese Toho Titanium Metal Company. https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/airbus-to-source-titanium-from-saudi-arabia-as-part-of-aircraft-deal-bloomberg Boeing Seeks New Buyers for Up to 50 Aircraft Not Taken Up by China Kelly Ortberg strictly stated- "We are not going to continue to build aeroplanes for customers who will not take them. If we see markets closing, that's going to be a big challenge for us." SEATTLE- Boeing is actively seeking alternative customers for approximately 50 aircraft originally destined for Chinese airlines, following China’s steep retaliatory tariffs. The aerospace manufacturer faces significant challenges as trade tensions between the United States and China continue to escalate. Boeing 50 Undelivered Planes As America’s largest goods exporter, Boeing has become a prime target in China’s retaliatory trade measures. Despite significant reputational challenges from recent safety scandals, the company maintains robust political connections in Washington. Kelly Ortberg, CEO of Boeing, confirmed that Boeing has engaged with officials and politicians “up to the President himself,” referring to direct communications with President Trump. The potential long-term exclusion from China’s rapidly growing aviation market represents a substantial strategic concern for Boeing, particularly if Airbus, which manufactures aircraft in France, China, and the United States, maintains its access to Chinese customers. “We are not going to continue to build aeroplanes for customers who will not take them. If we see markets closing, that’s going to be a big challenge for us.” Aircraft Redirection Two Boeing jets have already returned to the United States from China, with a third en route, after China imposed 125% tariffs on American imports. These measures came in direct response to the White House’s earlier 145% tariff on Chinese goods, creating what Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg described as an “unfortunate situation” during a call with investors on Wednesday. Ortberg expressed hope for an eventual resolution to the tariff standoff, noting that both Boeing and its main competitor, Airbus, would prefer operating in a “non-tariff environment.” This position contrasts sharply with President Trump’s belief that tariffs will strengthen American manufacturing globally, a view that contradicts mainstream economic consensus. Production Impact Boeing has already begun production on 41 aircraft initially intended for Chinese customers, with plans to deliver an additional 9 by year’s end. The affected airlines in China have communicated their unwillingness to take delivery under current conditions. “Many of our customers in China have indicated they are not taking delivery,” Ortberg stated during the investor call, adding that the company has received queries from non-Chinese airlines interested in acquiring some of these planes. Boeing’s strategy involves “re-marketing” these aircraft, including repainting them with different airlines’ liveries if necessary. Financial Performance The company announced narrowed losses for the first quarter of 2025, reporting a $31 million deficit compared to $355 million during the same period last year. This improved financial performance, coupled with Boeing’s substantial backlog of 5,600 aircraft on order globally, contributed to a 5.7% rise in the company’s share price on Wednesday. Ortberg emphasised that overall demand for aircraft remains strong despite the trade tensions, allowing Boeing to proceed with plans to increase production of its bestselling 737 Max to 38 units monthly. Navigating Global Trade While Trump’s administration has imposed 10% tariffs on imports from most countries outside China, Boeing typically can recover these costs on exports. However, China’s specific retaliatory measures have created unavoidable complications for the aircraft manufacturer. The continuing trade tensions place Boeing in a difficult position, balancing production schedules, customer relationships, and geopolitical realities while attempting to maintain its competitive position in the global aviation market. https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/04/24/boeing-seeks-new-buyers-for-up-to-50-aircraft-not-taken-up-by-china/#google_vignette United Invests in Next Generation Blended Wing Aircraft Start-Up JetZero Collaboration includes a path for United to purchase up to 200 airplanes1 JetZero's Z4 blended wing body or "all wing" design has the potential to enhance passenger experience and improve fuel efficiency by up to 50%2 JetZero was awarded a $235 million contract by the U.S. Air Force to fast-track the development of its commercial demonstrator with first flight expected in 2027 CHICAGO, April 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- United today announced an investment in blended wing body (BWB) aircraft start-up JetZero. The company is creating an aircraft design that has the potential to deliver jet fuel efficiency and a greatly enhanced customer experience. The investment includes a path to order up to 100 airplanes and an option for an additional 100. The conditional purchase agreement is based on JetZero achieving development milestones, including flight of a full-scale demonstrator in 2027, among other conditions, including that the aircraft meet United's safety, business and operating requirements. JetZero's innovative design reduces drag and produces lift across the entire wingspan, which could lead to as much as 50% reduction in fuel burn per passenger mile compared to a similar sized aircraft. The technology could potentially help United lower its carbon emissions while reducing the cost of operations. In 2023, the U.S. Air Force announced a $235 million contract to JetZero to fast-track the development of JetZero's full scale demonstrator. The JetZero Z4 airplane is designed to accommodate 250 passengers and fly on conventional jet fuel, with propulsion systems able to utilize sustainable aviation fuel blends. "If successful, JetZero has the potential to evolve our core mainline business by developing aircraft with a bigger, more comfortable cabin experience for our customers while increasing fuel efficiency across our network," said Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures (UAV). "United Airlines Ventures® was created to support our efforts to find innovative companies that can enhance the customer travel experience and help the airline lower its carbon footprint, and we believe JetZero reflects that philosophy." "United's investment in our company signals the industry's belief that new, innovative technology is needed in order to achieve the efficiency and cost savings that will be required to meet the continued growth in demand for air travel across the globe," said Tom O'Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero. "JetZero is focused on one key technology – the airframe – that enables us to address all of the barriers to growth. This program is the only one in development today that promises efficiency and an elevated customer experience." Both the airplane's shape, and the way JetZero plans to enter the plane into service, address industry pain points. The design contributes to a more efficient operation due to its shape and the higher altitude at which it will fly. For instance, a flight from New York/Newark to Palma de Mallorca, Spain would use up to 45 percent less fuel compared to the twin-aisle aircraft that operate that route today. The airplane also is expected to integrate readily into today's airport infrastructure, requiring no new accommodations for jet bridges, runways or taxiways. The aircraft design has the potential to also offer improvements to the passenger experience like flexible seating options, larger seats across all classes and dedicated overhead bin space for each seat. Additionally, the design streamlines the boarding process with a main boarding door that is wider than that of a comparably sized aircraft, leading to multiple aisles and passenger cabin bays for more efficient passenger distribution. It may further enhance accessibility by featuring wider aisles and handicap-accessible lavatories, creating a comfortable travel environment for all passengers and in-flight crew. JetZero's agreement with the Air Force focuses on advancing airframe technology and capabilities, showcasing its potential, and providing the Department of Defense and commercial industry more options to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Several military aircraft configurations can be made with this design, including air transport and refueling tanker variants, which collectively account for approximately 60% of the Air Force's total annual jet fuel consumption. United's corporate venture capital fund, United Airlines Ventures, enables the airline to invest in emerging companies that have the potential to influence the future of travel. UAV has made investments in start-ups developing innovative technologies that have the potential to revolutionize aerospace developments, create value for customers and United's operation and complement United's goal of net zero emissions by 2050. UAV has made a number of alternative aircraft investments including: • Hybrid-electric • Hydrogen-powered • Electric Air Taxis (eVTOLs) About JetZero JetZero will deliver the world's first commercial all-wing design airplane. With up to 50% lower fuel burn compared to existing commercial airliners, JetZero's Z4 offers the aviation industry a clear path to delivering a 250 passenger airplane with 5,000 nautical mile range, using conventional engines while reducing its carbon footprint. Working alongside the US Air Force, NASA, and the FAA, and backed by decades of investment and research into blended-wing technology, JetZero looks to enter commercial service in 2030. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/united-invests-next-generation-blended-120000181.html Texas Pilot Sentenced after Threatening Voicemail Rescinded job offer followed failed alcohol test A pilot who left a threatening voicemail last July after a rescinded job offer at a Florida charter company was sentenced earlier this month to one month in jail and one year of probation, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG). Patrick White was sentenced on April 8 in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, following a July 2024 criminal complaint and August indictment on a charge of transmitting a threat in interstate commerce. The U.S. Attorney’s Office brought the charge under Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(c), which criminalizes the use of interstate communications to issue threats to injure another person, stating, “Whoever transmits in interstate or foreign commerce any communication containing any threat to kidnap any person or any threat to injure the person of another, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.” The 2024 complaint alleged that on July 2, 2024, White left a voicemail for a company employee in which he threatened to kill them. The DOT OIG reported that White made the threat using a cellular phone, which constituted interstate communication. According to court documents and statements from the DOT OIG, White had interviewed with a Florida-based charter company for a chief pilot position on Feb. 6, 2024, and received a tentative job offer on February 26. However, the offer was rescinded following his failure to pass a required pre-employment alcohol screening conducted on March 5. His blood alcohol content was reported at 0.04. On March 14, the charter company rescinded White’s job offer in an email, citing the failed alcohol test. In mid-March, White made harassing phone calls to the charter company’s director of operations for five days before stopping, according to the July 2024 criminal complaint. The complaint states that White re-initiated contact with the operations director on June 28 and 29, leaving a vaguely threatening voicemail and a series of profanity-laced texts, including one that reportedly said: “I had an epiphany a vision if you will someone that you love is going to die in the next 14 days…I would start praying if I was you,” and another said to plead, “I need you to retract all those statements to the FAA and just say I miss spoke [sic] because you did Or this is going to get really ugly come tomorrow.” July 2, 2024: White allegedly left a voicemail containing a direct and explicit threat to kill the victim, saying he was “coming after you,” and “you know what I’m being evicted from my place of residence because of…your actions.” He stated he would come to the victim’s location to kill him. The victim reported the threatening voicemails and texts to both the FAA and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in Florida. These threats were deemed serious enough to prompt a criminal complaint and request for an arrest warrant filed in federal court. White was arrested and posted $25,000 bail a little over a week later. The April 8 sentencing follows several months of legal proceedings. A grand jury handed down the indictment on August 13, and the case was prosecuted in federal court. White’s sentence includes a month-long jail term, followed by probation, and a $25 special assessment. https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aerospace/2025-04-23/texas-pilot-sentenced-after-threatening-voicemail Flyadeal confirms Airbus jet order for long-haul expansion April 23 (Reuters) - Saudi budget carrier flyadeal on Wednesday confirmed a deal to order 10 Airbus (AIR.PA), opens new tab A330neo wide-body passenger jets as it expands into fast-growing long-haul markets in Southeast Asia. The sister airline of state-owned national carrier Saudia said it had also acquired purchase rights for a further 10 of the Rolls-Royce-powered (RR.L), opens new tab planes, also known as A330-900. The Reuters Tariff Watch newsletter is your daily guide to the latest global trade and tariff news. Sign up here. The announcement at a ceremony in Toulouse confirms details reported by Reuters in January. The deal - which had previously been listed by Airbus as an unidentified buyer - is worth $1.2 billion after typical discounts, according to estimated delivery price data from UK-based consultancy Cirium Ascend. Saudi Arabia's aviation sector is expanding as the kingdom invests billions of dollars in its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy away from fossil fuels and boost its private sector. Flyadeal has not yet finalised routes for the jets but plans to target the busy Southeast Asia market - the latest low-cost airline to seek to break into long-haul flying, which has been a tricky bet for some budget carriers due to complexity and cost. "I can pretty well guarantee that it's going to be Southeast Asia - Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia or the Philippines," flyadeal CEO Steven Greenway told Reuters of the planned route expansion. The airline will also be able to carry more passengers into congested regional markets, such as Dubai. Greenway, a former senior executive at Singapore Airlines subsidiary Scoot, has said flyadeal aims for 100 jets by 2030. In service since 2018, the A330neo is an upgraded version of the long-haul A330. It has room for well over 400 seats in the dense layouts used by the Southeast Asian carriers that flyadeal is likely to compete with, such as Cebu (CEB.PS), opens new tab and Lion Air. Flyadeal plans to include some premium economy-type seats. Greenway said Flyadeal had also looked at Boeing's (BA.N), opens new tab newer 787-9 as well as the possibility of redeploying seven larger 777s held by Saudia. The 787-9 has lower capacity in dense layouts and has a longer waiting time for delivery, while the 777 mini-jumbo would be harder to fill due its size, Greenway said. Flyadeal also needs a minimum of 10 aircraft to run its network efficiently. A330neo deliveries will start in July 2027. Greenway said Airbus narrow-body operator flyadeal had not been affected by trade tensions given its mainly domestic focus. "We still have fairly robust conditions in the Middle East as a whole," he said, adding, "I'm expecting summer to be robust". A more pressing concern is any significant fluctuation in oil prices and their impact on the economy. "At the moment, things are steaming ahead. I don't really see anything that flags (problems) for me in terms of demand or the robustness of travel at the moment," Greenway said. https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/saudi-flyadeal-confirms-order-10-airbus-a330neo-jets-2025-04-23/ Gulfstream’s G700 Jet Sets the Brand’s 700th Speed Record The flagship flew nonstop from Taipei to Miami in 14 hours, 38 minutes with an average speed of Mach 0.87. Even in the rarefied world of private jets, records matter. Gulfstream just announced that it has achieved 700 city-pair records with its flagship G700 on a flight from Taipei to Miami. The flight lasted 14 hours and 38 minutes at an average cruise speed of Mach 0.87. The G700 and 700th flight make good bookends, representing the 50-year anniversary of Gulfstream’s first city-pair record, set in 1975 by the Gulfstream GII. That early Gulfstream flew from St. John’s, Antigua, to Dakar, Senegal. The company told Robb Report that these speed records, rather than being a staged event to set a record, highlight the aircraft’s “real-world performance” during a normal flight. Many of the city-pair records typically involve somewhat obscure destinations and are set by owners in their aircraft. “Every manufacturer in business-jet land uses these records as marketing tools,” says Brian Foley, an aviation consultant who has worked for several aircraft manufacturers. “They can say that this aircraft holds 50 speed records. If you’re a customer who just bought a plane and set the record on it, it carries some bragging rights.” Gulfstream counters that it’s important to have “verified examples” of what their aircraft can do. “This latest accomplishment once again proves, in real-time demonstration, that our aircraft give customers the advantage of traveling farther faster than any other aircraft in the industry,” added Mark Burns, president of Gulfstream at a press event in Manhattan, announcing the 700th milestone. The records are accredited by the U.S. National Aeronautic Association, which verifies all types of air-speed records. The speed records focus on range and performance, but ignore the luxuries and comfort of the G700. But city-pair records are also important to other aircraft manufacturers, including Gulfstream’s direct ultra-long-range competitor, Bombardier, and Embraer, which also competes in the super midsize category. French business-jet maker Dassault Falcon, which goes head-to-head with Gulfstream and Bombardier, does not put much stock in the speed records. Bombardier’s current flagship, the Global 7500, recently set a city-pair record from San Luis Obispo to London’s Biggin Hill airport. “This is a performance demonstration since we set these records under normal flight conditions, pairing cities on routes that many businesses fly,” Mark Masluch, Bombardier’s Senior Director of Communications, told Robb Report during that flight. Owners aren’t just looking at the aircraft’s specs, he added: “They’re already thinking about cities they’ll fly into, with real-life speeds and ranges. The records prove the stats are legitimate.” But they also provide bragging rights for the aircraft manufacturer. That Global 7500 flight, for instance, was the 100th record flight for Bombardier’s flagship. After a year in service, the G700 has already passed 80 city-pair records, with many ahead. Gulfstream’s previous flagships, the G650 and G650ER, have more than 130 records between them, and Gulfstream says the G700 is moving at a faster rate. Gulfstream president Mark Burns (center) with the plaque certifying its 700th city-pair speed record. The G700 can credit its performance and range stats to its Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, as well as the aerodynamic shape of the fuselage and high-speed winglet that was introduced on this aircraft. The cockpit’s Predictive Landing Performance System and dual head-up display with Gulfstream’s Combined Vision System (CVS) increases the pilot’s situational awareness and access to more airports. What’s missed, or possibly taken for granted, behind the claims regarding speed, range and technology, are the cabin comforts. Both flagships have four large zones, including social and dining areas, and the possibility of a bedroom in the rear, with the differences in length, headroom, and width measured in inches. They also have state-of-the-art air purification systems and lighting to mitigate jet lag as well as top-notch entertainment and connectivity. Gulfstream With Gulfstream launching its G800 later this year, and Bombardier its Global 8000, the city-pair record race will undoubtedly heat up, as both aircraft up the range ante to over 8,000 nautical miles. Foley says that the city-pairing records would be more interesting if they included major destinations like New York to Paris, or Sydney to London. “Those do carry some weight,” he says. One record remains in doubt, and it’s the big one: The farthest flight in business-aviation history. Gulfstream claims its G650ER holds the record for the farthest, fastest flight from Singapore to Tucson, Arizona, a distance of 8,379 nautical miles in 15 hours and 23 minutes. Bombardier, by contrast, says its flight from Sydney to Detroit was the world’s longest flight. Sounds like a dispute for the National Aeronautic Association to handle. https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gulfstream-business-jet-700th-speed-record-g700-1236507408/ Boeing has a $1 billion China problem — and a fix Boeing must sell 50 planes originally intended for China due to trade war challenges. The Chinese planes are worth more than $1 billion in revenue for Boeing. Restrictions from other countries would be a challenge for the aircraft industry, Boeing's CEO said. Boeing is collateral damage in the US's trade war with China. The American plane maker said it has about 50 planes that must be sold to other airlines. Chinese customers said they won't take deliveries because of tariffs. "Right now, China's our only problem," Boeing's CEO, Kelly Ortberg, said on an earnings call on Wednesday. "We're going to work our tail off to make sure that China issue doesn't implicate our recovery." Boeing's chief financial officer, Brian West, said that China made up 10% of the company's commercial backlog. He said Boeing is looking for ways to redirect its planes to places with more "stable demand." The 50 planes bound for China are worth over $1 billion in revenue, West said. Chinese airlines have returned two completed planes to the US, and there are plans to return a third one, Ortberg said on CNBC on Wednesday. But years of delivery delays mean other customers are lining up. The CEO of Malaysia Aviation Group — the parent company of the country's national carrier, Malaysia Airlines — told state media that it is talking with Boeing about taking over the delivery slots. "We've really had a good start to the year, and I'm glad we put a conservative plan together that allows us to deal with the tariffs," Ortberg said. Boeing reported $19.5 billion in first-quarter revenue, up 18% compared to last year. It narrowed losses to $31 million. Boeing's stock closed 6% up on Wednesday. Speaking to POTUS himself Boeing executives expressed concerns about President Donald Trump's tariffs on the rest of the world, including about what happens if other countries follow in China's footsteps. "I don't think a day goes by where we aren't engaged with someone in the administration, including cabinets, cabinet secretaries, and up to POTUS himself," Ortberg said. He added: "Aircraft are such a significant part of our trade surplus, and if we see markets closing that's going to be a big challenge for us." The executives said that most of Boeing's supply chain is based in the US, and many of their Mexico and Canada imports have tariff exemptions. Still, they estimated that higher tariffs could cost the company $500 million annually. Boeing is recovering from a series of hits last year, including a mass workers' strike and financial losses. Imposition on deliveries threatens its market share as it competes with Europe's Airbus and newer entrants from China. https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/boeing-1-billion-china-problem-064316047.html Laser incidents targeting airplanes surge in Washington state SEATTLE — There has been a significant rise in laser incidents targeting aircraft near Seattle-Tacoma and Spokane International Airports in Washington since March 2024, the FBI announced on Wednesday. Pilots have reported lasers illuminating and tracking their cockpits, particularly during landing approaches at SEA and GEG airports. In Spokane, neighborhoods such as the West Plains, Nine Mile Falls, Green Bluff, and Hillyard have reported incidents. In Seattle, affected areas include SeaTac, Vashon, White Center, Burien, West Kent, Lake Meridian Park, East Hill, and Des Moines. The FBI believes multiple people are responsible for these incidents, but does not think the Seattle and Spokane cases are connected. The agency is collaborating with local and federal authorities to identify and locate those responsible and is seeking public assistance. "Lasers pointed at an aircraft can interfere with landing and can increase the risk of injury to flight crew, passengers, and citizens within the local area," said the FBI. Aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft is a federal offense, carrying a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Anyone with information about these laser strikes is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), their local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. https://komonews.com/news/local/laser-incidents-targeting-airplanes-surge-in-washington-state-fbi-federal-offense-investigation-boeing-vacation-travel-flight-safety-airport-seatac-seattle-tacoma CALENDAR OF EVENTS · AIA Conference: The Aviation Insurance Association's annual conference in Orlando, Florida from April 25–28, 2025 . 0th 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 . Airborne Public Safety Association -APSCON / APSCON Unmanned 2025 in Phoenix, AZ | July 14-18, 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 . Air Medical Transport Conference (AMTC™) - 2025 – October 27-29th (Omaha, Nebraska) . 29th annual Bombardier Safety Standdown, November 11-13, 2025; Wichita, Kansas · CHC Safety & Quality Summit, 11th – 13th November 2025, Vancouver, BC Canada Curt Lewis