Flight Safety Information - November 24, 2025 No. 234 In This Issue : Incident: Southwest B738 at Atlanta on Nov 21st 2025, cabin pressure problems : Accident: Fly Pro B742 at N'Djamena on Nov 13th 2025, touched down short of runway : Incident: ANZ AT72 enroute on Nov 20th 2025, engine shut down in flight : Incident: France A359 at Buenos Aires on Nov 20th 2025, smell of smoke on board : FAA warns all pilots of risks of flying over Venezuela over ‘worsening security situation’ : Air Premia Boeing 787-9 Pilots Miss Taxi Route at Newark Liberty Airport But Timely ATC Correction Guarantees Safe Departure and Smooth Operations amid Ground Confusion : Ariana Afghan Airlines aircraft landed on wrong runway at Delhi airport just as Air India jet took off : Flying in Russia in the Next Decade: How 340 Aircraft Retirements Will Affect Tourists and Travel Plans : 22 Aircraft Grounded: ITA Airways Faces Fleet Headache Over Pratt And Whitney Engine Recalls : Cheap illegal charter, jet sharing have safety, liability risks for flyers : FAA issues urgent warning: Leaving bags behind in airplane evacuations could be a matter of life and death : PhD GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY REQUEST : Calendar of Event Incident: Southwest B738 at Atlanta on Nov 21st 2025, cabin pressure problems A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800, registration N8691A performing flight WN-171 from Atlanta,GA to Chicago Midway,IL (USA), was climbing out of Atlanta's runway 26L when the crew stopped the climb at 5000 feet advising ATC, they didn't want to climb any higher due to cabin altitude. The aircraft returned to Atlanta for a safe landing on runway 26R about 25 minutes after departure. A replacement Boeing 737-700 registration N204WN reached Chicago with a delay of about 2.5 hours. The occurrence aircraft returned to service about 36 hours after landing back. https://avherald.com/h?article=53012487&opt=0 Accident: Fly Pro B742 at N'Djamena on Nov 13th 2025, touched down short of runway A Fly Pro Cargo Boeing 747-200 freighter, registration ER-BAR performing flight FP-8751 from Baku (Azerbaijan) to N'Djamena (Chad), landed on N'Djamena's runway 05 at about 11:08L (10:08Z) but touched down short of the runway. The aircraft rolled out without further incident and taxied to the apron. The aircraft is still on the ground in N'Djamena 10 days after landing. According to NOTAMs the ILS runway 05 DME and glidepath transmitters were out of service, in addition there were works in progress around the runway requiring caution upon takeoffs and landings. Local media observed at least 8 such flights from Baku to N'Djamena in the weeks before the accident and suspect, military goods were taken to the Chad. The US NTSB confirmed an occurrence and joined the investigation by Chad's Authorities. https://avherald.com/h?article=53010f5b&opt=0 Incident: ANZ AT72 enroute on Nov 20th 2025, engine shut down in flight An ANZ Air New Zealand Avions de Transport Regional ATR-72-212A, registration ZK-MVA performing flight NZ-5077 from Auckland to Nelson (New Zealand), was enroute at FL160 about 140nm southsouthwest of Auckland when the crew needed to shut one of the engines (PW127M) down and decided to return to Auckland. The aircraft drifted down to 13,000 feet and landed safely back on Auckland's runway 23L about 90 minutes after departure. The rotation NZ-5077/NZ-5530 was cancelled. The airport reported emergency services were called in for an engine shutdown. The airline reported an engineering issue. The occurrence aircraft returned to service about 20 hours after landing back. https://avherald.com/h?article=53006c03&opt=0 Incident: France A359 at Buenos Aires on Nov 20th 2025, smell of smoke on board An Air France Airbus A350-900, registration F-HTYT performing flight AF-411 from Buenos Aires Ezeiza,BA (Argentina) to Paris Charles de Gaulle (France), was climbing out of Ezeiza's runway 11 when the crew stopped the climb at FL170 declaring PAN PAN PAN reporting the smell of smoke on board. The aircraft returned to Ezeiza for a safe landing on runway 11 about 35 minutes after departure. The flight was cancelled. Passengers reported some weird smell in the cabin and smoke in the cabin, that seemed to come from the lights. https://avherald.com/h?article=52ffd67c&opt=0 FAA warns all pilots of risks of flying over Venezuela over ‘worsening security situation’ WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Aviation Administration on Friday warned all pilots to “exercise caution” when flying in the airspace over Venezuela “due to the worsening security situation and heightened military activity ” around the country. The message said the unspecified threats “could pose a potential risk to aircraft at all altitudes” as well planes taking off and landing in the country and even aircraft on the ground. The warning comes as the Trump administration has ramped up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The U.S. military has conducted bomber flights up to the coast of Venezuela, sometimes as part of a training exercise to simulate an attack, and sent the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford into the region. The Ford aircraft carrier and several destroyers were just the latest addition to the largest U.S. force assembled in the Caribbean Sea near Venezuela in generations. The Trump administration does not see Maduro, who faces charges of narcoterrorism in the U.S., as the legitimate leader of the South American country. The Trump administration also has carried out a series of strikes on small boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean that it accuses of ferrying drugs to the U.S., killing over 80 people in total since the campaign began in early September. Mary Schiavo, who is a former inspector general for the Department of Transportation, said the FAA puts out this kind of notice anytime there is a military conflict but that she hopes pilots will pay attention. “I wouldn’t take it as necessarily there’s any kind of attack is imminent because I’ve seen these issued many times before. But as a pilot myself, I’d certainly heed it,” Schiavo said. Schiavo said the United States may be anticipating military action by Venezuela or it could be planning additional action against drug boats. She said it’s hard to read into this notice and know what is behind it. The Pentagon, when asked about the new warning, directed questions to the FAA, which simply confirmed the warning was issued and that it would last for 90 days. https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-airline-pilots-warning-trump-military-1a612d86f5271c2f99ee9446680a2198 Air Premia Boeing 787-9 Pilots Miss Taxi Route at Newark Liberty Airport But Timely ATC Correction Guarantees Safe Departure and Smooth Operations amid Ground Confusion Air Premia was operating a Boeing 787-9 when the pilots had a small case of confusion regarding their taxi routing instructions from ground control. Air Traffic Control had recognized the situation and were able to provide clear instructions to the pilots to safely correct their error and position the aircraft in the correct taxiing position. Thanks to Air Traffic Control’s quick and effective instructions, the flight was able to safely avoid any potential hazards and depart without delay. This situation illustrates the highly effective communication and operational responses that were able to smooth over the operational ground confusion. A recent incident involving an Air Premia Boeing 787-9 operating flight APZ132 from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Seoul Incheon (ICN) underscores the complexity of ground operations at major airports and the crucial role of air traffic control (ATC) in ensuring smooth and safe operations. The incident occurred when the aircraft, following standard taxi instructions, was cleared for departure but mistakenly deviated from its assigned taxiway, prompting a swift response from the air traffic control tower. The aircraft had been instructed to cross Runway 11 and continue toward Runway 22R for takeoff. However, after initially acknowledging the clearance, the pilots veered off course and turned onto Taxiway ZA instead of continuing toward the correct runway. This miscommunication highlighted the challenges of navigating complex taxiways at busy airports like Newark, where multiple taxiways intersect and precise adherence to instructions is crucial. As soon as the deviation was noticed, the tower quickly intervened, halting the aircraft’s movement to prevent any further issues. A Quick Response From Air Traffic Control Prevented Further Issues The aircraft, a Boeing 787-9, was initially taxiing on Taxiway R towards the holding point of Runway 22R when the controller cleared the flight to cross Runway 11. The clearance was acknowledged by the flight crew, but shortly afterward, the aircraft made an unexpected turn onto Taxiway ZA. This unplanned deviation caused the ATC tower to intervene promptly. The tower noticed the aircraft’s change of direction and immediately issued a stop command to prevent any potential runway incursion. Upon halting, the crew reported that they had misread the taxi routing instructions. Following this, the controller provided new taxi instructions to guide the aircraft back on track. The aircraft was directed to Taxiway P and then onto Runway 1, eventually realigning toward the correct taxi route. Throughout the incident, the controller maintained a calm and composed tone, assuring the crew that such miscommunications are not uncommon in the busy air traffic environment at Newark. The aircraft was repositioned successfully without incident, and the crew received a new takeoff clearance from Runway 22R, with the intensity of the runway lighting increased to assist the crew in identifying the correct path. Timely Intervention and Effective Communication Ensure Safety This event underscores the importance of clear and effective communication between air traffic controllers and flight crews, particularly during ground operations at complex airports. Newark Liberty, a major international hub, has dense taxiway configurations with multiple intersecting points, requiring pilots to maintain heightened situational awareness. Even minor miscommunications can lead to potential issues, but as this event shows, timely interventions can prevent more serious consequences. The incident was resolved without any operational impact on other flights or ground operations at the airport. The quick action by the ATC tower ensured that the flight was safely repositioned, and the aircraft was cleared for departure after the miscommunication was rectified. Complexities of Ground Operations and Pilot Awareness Taxiway configurations at large international airports like Newark are intricate, with intersecting paths and multiple holding points for departing aircraft. This complexity requires pilots to stay highly alert and adhere strictly to ATC instructions to prevent taxiway missteps that could lead to runway incursions or delays. In this case, the aircraft was cleared for takeoff from Runway 22R after the controller had issued a full-length taxi clearance. However, the subsequent deviation onto the wrong taxiway highlights the importance of attention to detail and accurate navigation, particularly when there are multiple ground routes to follow in quick succession. This situation serves as a reminder of the challenges pilots face when navigating busy airports, even with the support of advanced navigation systems and ATC guidance. The Role of Air Traffic Control in Ensuring Smooth Operations Air traffic controllers are the unsung heroes of airport operations, often working behind the scenes to manage the safe and efficient movement of aircraft on the ground. In this case, the ATC tower’s quick response and timely intervention prevented the situation from escalating. By issuing clear and prompt corrective instructions, the controller ensured that the flight could safely continue its journey with minimal disruption to the airport’s overall operations. Moreover, the controller’s calm and reassuring communication style helped maintain the professionalism of the exchange and ensured that the crew remained focused on correcting the error. The incident was resolved quickly, with no impact on the surrounding air traffic. A Learning Opportunity for Ground Operations and Pilots While the misstep was minor, it provides valuable insight into the complexities of ground operations at major international airports. For pilots, it serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and fully understand the routing instructions provided by air traffic control. Even the most routine operations can be disrupted if clear communication is not maintained, particularly at busy airports where multiple aircraft are moving simultaneously. For air traffic controllers, the incident reinforces the importance of being prepared for unexpected deviations and having the systems in place to address such situations swiftly. The event was handled with professionalism, preventing any potential safety hazards and ensuring that the aircraft was able to depart without incident. Air Premia’s Boeing 787-9 pilots missed their assigned taxi route at Newark Liberty, but timely intervention from air traffic control quickly corrected the deviation, guaranteeing a safe departure and smooth operations despite the initial confusion. The Air Premia flight APZ132 incident is an example of how quick intervention and effective communication between pilots and air traffic controllers are key to maintaining safety and efficiency in ground operations. Airports like Newark Liberty face significant challenges due to their complex layouts, but with robust procedures and experienced personnel in place, these challenges can be navigated smoothly. Ultimately, this incident reinforces the need for ongoing training, clear communication, and situational awareness in ensuring safe airport operations. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/air-premia-boeing-787-9-pilots-miss-taxi-route-at-newark-liberty-airport-but-timely-atc-correction-guarantees-safe-departure-and-smooth-operations-amid-ground-confusion/ Ariana Afghan Airlines aircraft landed on wrong runway at Delhi airport just as Air India jet took off An Ariana Afghan Airlines Airbus A310 aircraft operating Flight FG-311 (Kabul-Delhi) was given clearance to land on runway 29L at the Delhi airport, however, the aircraft landed on the parallel runway 29R. An Ariana Afghan Airlines Airbus A310 aircraft operating Flight FG-311 (Kabul-Delhi) was given clearance to land on runway 29L at the Delhi airport, however, the aircraft landed on the parallel runway 29R. In a serious incident at the Delhi airport on Sunday around noon, an Ariana Afghan Airlines aircraft mistakenly landed on the wrong runway from which another plane–an Air India aircraft–was taking off, according to a senior official with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The regulator is investigating the matter. An Ariana Afghan Airlines Airbus A310 aircraft operating Flight FG-311 (Kabul-Delhi) was given clearance to land on runway 29L at the Delhi airport, however, the aircraft landed on the parallel runway 29R. Runway 29L was being used exclusively for landings, while 29R was in use only for take-offs, it is learnt. As per the information provided to the DGCA by the pilot commanding the aircraft, there was a failure of the instrument landing system (ILS) before landing. As a result, the aircraft deviated from its path amid poor visibility, and ended up on the wrong runway. While the pilot acknowledged that the air traffic control (ATC) had given landing clearance for runway 29L, he claimed that the ATC did not inform the crew that the plane had deviated from its path and was headed for the wrong runway, it is learnt. According to sources, Air India flight AI-2243 to Riyadh had just taken off from the same runway when the Ariana Afghan Airlines aircraft touched down. The DGCA will be investigating the Afghan pilot’s claim as part of the probe, according to sources. The ILS is a radio navigation system that provides precision guidance to aircraft approaching a runway using radio signals for lateral and vertical guidance. It is particularly useful in low-visibility conditions. In the absence of the ILS, pilots can land with a visual approach. According to the captain, the crew realised that the aircraft was on the wrong runway only after landing and vacating the runway. “Tower informed us that we had touched down on Runway 29R instead of Runway 29L. The runway deviation occurred as a result of the ILS system failure and the associated loss of lateral guidance in visibility,” the pilot is learnt to have said in his statement to the regulator. https://indianexpress.com/article/business/aviation/ariana-afghan-airlines-aircraft-wrong-runway-delhi-airport-air-india-take-off-10383337/ Flying in Russia in the Next Decade: How 340 Aircraft Retirements Will Affect Tourists and Travel Plans Global travelers planning trips to Russia may soon face changes in the skies. The Russian aviation sector is expected to retire around 340 civilian aircraft by 2030 due to maintenance and operational challenges. This shift could affect the availability of flights and airline services across the country. While Russian authorities continue to modernize aviation, travelers should be aware of potential impacts on flight schedules, aircraft options, and comfort. Understanding the evolving aviation landscape can help tourists plan smoother trips. Why Are Russia’s Planes Retiring? Many of the aircraft slated for retirement are older models, including the Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ-100), which faces ongoing maintenance difficulties. Production delays and technical challenges in newer models, like the MC-21, have made replacements slower than anticipated. For travelers, this means some regional routes could see fewer flights or older planes still in service. However, authorities are pushing for safer and more efficient aircraft, ensuring the long-term safety of passengers. What This Means for Tourists Flight Availability: Some domestic flights may become limited, especially to smaller cities. Travelers are advised to book tickets early. Aircraft Type: Passengers might encounter a mix of modern and older planes during domestic travel. Expect variations in amenities and comfort levels. Safety and Maintenance: Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency continues to regulate maintenance standards strictly. All operational planes meet government-approved safety requirements, so tourists can travel with confidence. Travel Planning: Flexible itineraries are recommended, particularly for multi-city tours or connecting flights within Russia. Best Practices for Booking Russian Flights Check Airline Updates: Monitor announcements from major Russian airlines like Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, and Rossiya Airlines for the latest flight information. Plan Ahead: Consider booking 1–3 months in advance for popular destinations like Moscow, St. Petersburg, or Sochi. Expect Modernization: Airlines are gradually introducing new aircraft models. Booking flights on newer planes may enhance comfort and reduce delays. Domestic Routes: If traveling between smaller cities, confirm the aircraft type and flight schedule, as regional services may experience adjustments. Travel-Friendly Alternatives Even as some aircraft retire, Russia continues to modernize its aviation network. Newer jets, including updated versions of the MC-21, are being phased in. High-speed train networks, such as the Sapsan from Moscow to St. Petersburg, provide reliable alternatives for domestic travel. Tourists can also explore scenic Russian regions via river cruises, road trips, or guided tours, which reduce dependence on domestic flights while offering immersive experiences. Preparing for a Smooth Trip Check Airport Services: Larger airports in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi continue to expand amenities and lounges for international travelers. Travel Insurance: Consider insurance covering flight delays or cancellations, particularly if you are flying on older aircraft models. Stay Informed: Russian aviation authorities periodically update safety regulations and flight availability. Following official advisories ensures stress-free travel. Seasonal Travel: Russia’s climate can affect flights in winter, so tourists should plan accordingly, especially in northern or remote areas. Looking Ahead By 2030, Russia aims to replace retiring aircraft with safer, more efficient models, ensuring passenger comfort and reliable service. For global travelers, this modernization presents an opportunity to enjoy upgraded flights while exploring the country’s rich culture, historic cities, and natural landscapes. Tourists can benefit from proactive planning, flexible itineraries, and awareness of regional flight adjustments. Even amid the aircraft transition, Russia remains a destination full of adventure, offering seamless travel options for those who plan ahead. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/flying-in-russia-in-the-next-decade-how-340-aircraft-retirements-will-affect-tourists-and-travel-plans/ 22 Aircraft Grounded: ITA Airways Faces Fleet Headache Over Pratt And Whitney Engine Recalls Luke Diaz is a freelance military writer with experience on active duty with the US Navy as well as defense and industrial engineering. He is a former Naval Flight Officer who performed tactical air control on the carrier-capable Airborne Early Warning (AEW) platform, the E-2 Hawkeye. In an ongoing crisis that began almost two years ago at the tail end of 2023, ITA Airways has watched its fleet slowly waste away due to increasingly crippling engine faults. The recall of Pratt & Whitney GTF turbofans due to production defects has devastated its fleet. The Italy-based airline now has 22 jetliners grounded, which amounts to 28% of its total aircraft inventory, according to Corriere Della Sera. The outlet reports that ITA estimates damages to exceed €150 million over the next five years, or €82,000 per day. A Global Crisis The recall of engines has not been limited to ITA Airways. The Pratt & Whitney GTFPW1000G is found in a number of aircraft models around the world as one of the most popular new, fuel-efficient turbofans on the market. That popularity has proven to be a vulnerability, as many carriers have been forced to ground many of their newer jets, which were expected to be in service and producing revenue. ITA has been one of the hardest hit airlines in the small-to-medium category. The carrier has a total of 101 aircraft, with 79 being narrowbody planes, according to Planespotters.net data. The 22 grounded aircraft are a mix of Airbus A220, A320neo, and A321neo jets. From the grand total of four A321neo stretched single-aisles in ITA’s fleet, three are currently parked. Joerg Eberhart, CEO of ITA Airways, was interviewed by Airways Magazine last month and gave these remarks on the impact that the P&W powerplant recall has had on the airline: “We have A220 pilots flying 20 hours a month. You can’t grow like that. Airlines control only a third of their cost base. Everyone else—airports, lessors, manufacturers—sets prices we must absorb.” What’s Up With P&W Engines? The contaminated powdered metal in the P&W engines was found to be used in components manufactured for the high-pressure turbine (HPT) and high-pressure compressor (HPC) discs from 2015 to 2021. This manufacturing issue means that microscopic contaminants can lead to premature cracking in the internal turbine components. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have mandated inspections of potentially affected GTF turbofans. The process does not follow a strict recall format but begins with a mandatory inspection that dictates removal for off-wing processing. So far, the inspection times have been inconsistent, with some lasting 60 days or the better part of a year. Pratt & Whitney has done what it can to mitigate the impact on airlines. However, the sensitivity of the defect and high risk of catastrophic failure demand the utmost precaution. The manufacturer has ramped up the expansion of repair and maintenance services, as well as provided Financial relief to carriers impacted by the recall. The unprecedented nature and scale of recall have put a significant strain on the historic engine maker. In addition to direct financial compensation, the company has also negotiated credits towards parts and services, as well as providing spare engines as much as possible to reduce the impact on customers. The estimated cost that will be incurred by P&W and its partners is $6 billion or more. These Are The Most Affected US Airlines By Pratt & Whitney Engine Groundings Today Spirit Airlines faces the biggest impact. The Path Forward ITA Airways Airbus A320 landing at Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport Credit: Shutterstock The devastating impact on ITA Airways operations is expected to continue into 2026 at a minimum. The beginning of the fleet drawdown began before the peak summer season, which severely cut into the airline's bottom line. Having so much of its fleet, especially its newest and best aircraft, be unavailable for travel surge periods was a major blow to ITA’s profit margins. The severity of the situation for ITA has led the CEO to state that it is preparing a lawsuit against the engine maker as well as its parent company, RTX. The airline is seeking greater financial compensation for its losses than what P&W has offered. The situation has steadily grown worse for ITA, with the last six months offering no light at the end of the tunnel. https://simpleflying.com/22-aircraft-grounded-ita-airways-pratt-whitney-recalls/ Cheap illegal charter, jet sharing have safety, liability risks for flyers Illegal private jet charter, shared private jet flights put flyers at risk, but experts say an FAA crackdown is unlikely until it’s too late. While the Federal Aviation Administration could easily crack down on illegal private jet charter and shared flights, experts speaking at Corporate Jet Investor said it will likely take a tragedy to make it an oversight priority. In the meantime, illegal flights mean consumers could find themselves on aircraft that are not maintained to commercial standards, flown by pilots who lack training. You could also face liability not covered by insurance if something goes wrong. Moderator David Hernandez, an aviation attorney with Vedder Price and a former FAA prosecutor, said, “To use this ugly analogy, (illegal charters are) spreading like Covid through the industry, and it’s going to touch everything and everyone sooner or later.” The panel discussion, which took place earlier this month in Miami at the business aviation conference, covered two types of illegal charter. NetJets Praetor 500 Find the perfect solution for your private aviation needs Save Time. Buy Confidently. Receive an apples-to-apples comparison of programs that meet your needs from more than 500 jet card and fractional options covering 65 points of differentiation and over 40,000 data points. One includes selling individual seats by private jet owners, fractional-share owners, jet card customers, and ad hoc charter customers. The other illegal charter activity involves jet owners and operators selling flights on aircraft that are not certified by the national aviation authority for commercial missions. In the U.S., it is referred to as Part 135. Part 91K rules cover fractional operators, while Part 91 refers to airplanes operated by their owners for non-commercial use. Aircraft owners who want to earn charter revenue need to have their aircraft on a Part 135 certificate. READ: FAA warns pilots, consumers about illegal charters; lists red flags Illegal Jet Sharing Illegal charters in the form of shared private jet flights made headlines after a report in The Wall Street Journal. Panelists at the business aviation conference were split on whether shared flights, if done legally, were a good idea. Currently, jet owners, fractional share owners, jet card clients, and charter customers offset costs by selling seats on their flights, often via private online groups. Broker Dan Harris of Ironbird Partners called the jet-sharing a “missed or failed opportunity as an industry.” He said, “The consumer obviously wants it, and we have been unable to provide a solution for the consumer, and because of that, they have gone to WhatsApp groups and other ways to fill that need.” Harris noted that sharing is legal via confusing self-aggregation. Jet Sharing Hurts The Industry Another broker, Jacquie Dalton of Sparrow Executive Jets, took an opposing view. She said, “I don’t necessarily think that the consumer wants it as much as there are players in the industry who are telling the consumer to want it and creating a problem that they have a solution for as they move it to ride sharing and seat selling.” Dalton told attendees that she sees seat-sharing as part of a larger effort that includes selling empty legs, which, combined, she believes, hurt customers who pay top dollar to fly when they want and expect well-maintained airplanes and crew who are rested and ready to go. “We have an obligation to provide safety and a quality of service,” she says, adding, “The problem with ride sharing and seat selling isn’t just that (some is) illegal, it’s really degrading the value of ultimately what it takes to run a good flight operation.” Giving Up Your Rights Hernandez added, “One of the big issues I think is the risks… It’s an illegal activity, and trying to convey to people what this means, at least from a legal perspective, you really have no rights. If something goes wrong, you can’t really sue somebody for being involved in an illegal activity.” Hernandez said websites that have presented themselves as platforms for self-aggregation deny responsibility for illegal activity that occurs on their platforms. Selling unused seats on Part 91 and Part 91K – fractionally owned aircraft – is always illegal and falls outside self-aggregation. Harris added: ‘For the consumer, the major risk is from an insurance standpoint. So, if you were flying on an airplane that is not on a legal (Part) 135 certificate, (and) there is an incident, there is no insurance protection for you, your family, or your business. So, if you are a wealthy individual and you want to save $2,000 or $5,000 and buy a seat, you do not know that the airplane you’re flying on is (Part) 135 and that airplane has an incident, your own insurance policy, the airplane’s insurance policy can be void, and you could potentially lose a lot more. You’re risking a lot more just to save maybe a few thousand dollars.’ Southern Sky Aviation’s Barry Lambert said the illegal seat selling creates even bigger risks. He said, “By selling seats on a private jet, we don’t have a sterile flight deck. We don’t have secure doors. So now (passengers) have access to the pilots. But now we’ve put anywhere between four to eight passengers that don’t know each other into a closed environment.” Dalton said, “We call it market expansion, but the fact is there’s phishing, there’s fraud, there’s scams.” Shutdown Strategy? Hernandez said it would be relatively easy to shut down seat sharing on Part 91 and 91K aircraft. He said: ‘You could shut this stuff down with three things – a motivated (operations or FAA) inspector that’s getting paid, a couple of subpoenas, and press releases. And in the press releases you have to target the users of the product. And there’s nothing that scares the hell out of someone more than getting a subpoena. So that’s how you stop it. And you get the (inspectors) at…the biggest, busiest (airports). And every (Part) 91 flight, you check and you ask tough questions. And you also tell NetJets and Flexjet and all the other fractional program operators: if you don’t church yourselves up, you’re going to get subpoenas as well. And that’ll probably end in a matter of a week because subpoenas, they ruin your day.’ Harris stood by his belief that there is consumer demand. He pointed to JSX, Aero (operating as Public Charters under Part 380), and start-ups like Magnifica Air (which will operate under Part 121) that offer by-the-seat products, use private terminals, and operate within the legal framework. Harris said it needs to be easier and more transparent to legally self-aggregate. Lambert, however, said the extra revenue of even self-aggregation probably wouldn’t offset the tradeoff for aircraft owners from wear and tear. “It opens up to another market segment that may not know how to treat the interior of the aircraft or behave appropriately in that setting,” he said. Nearly one-third of Private Jet Card Comparisons’ subscribers (32.9%) say they are interested in shared flights or buying individual seats. However, that’s down from 42.8% in 2022. READ: Websites, online groups offer cheap private jet seats. Is it legal? Are Illegal Charters Safe? The second part touched on illegal charters in general. Hernandez asked, “How unsafe are illegal charters?” Lambert told the audience: ‘Depending on how the operation itself is, there’s no one auditing the maintenance. There’s no one auditing the pilot training. I can think of a couple operators right now that hire pilots from the flight school to fly as a safety pilot so they don’t have dual type (rated) crew. They do not have commercial insurance. They’re getting a lot of their maintenance completed by through the fence mechanics. They’re not going to (Part) 145 repair stations. The documentation is poor on the maintenance.’ In one case, an operator was using a “maintenance manual that was 15 years out of date.” READ: Air Charter Association marks Sala’s death, highlighting illegal charter Consequences Lambert added that pilots who operate illegal flights are likely to lose their licenses. Illegal charters also hurt operators who invest in complying with regulations. He said, “We’re certificated to be able to do charter. We have gone through the process. We uphold our standards that do cost more. And so, if there’s a victim here, it’s actually legal charter because they’re being held to a standard that the FAA does police, but they don’t police the great charter because of the 91 activity.” Lambert said illegal charter operations orchestrated under dry leases are particularly risky for flyers. “You look at dry leasing, Everything puts the responsibility and the liability back on the user. Charter…takes the liability off of the actual user,” he noted. He added, “If you dry lease an airplane or you accept the responsibility, you are legally responsible to the FAA to make sure that you’re compliant in all aspects of the operation of the flight.” Hernandez doesn’t expect to see much action from the FAA on the illegal seat-sharing. He said, “We’re not here to beat up on the FAA. They just have limited resources.” He recalled during his tenure there, “I had 500 cases at a time.” https://privatejetcardcomparisons.com/2025/11/23/cheap-illegal-charter-jet-sharing-have-safety-liability-risks-for-flyers/ FAA issues urgent warning: Leaving bags behind in airplane evacuations could be a matter of life and death Picture this: you’re told to evacuate an airplane. Do you grab your bag, or do you run? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is raising the alarm—again—because too many people are still choosing wrong. Dropping your carry-on could literally make the difference between survival and disaster for everyone onboard. FAA’s Urgent Safety Alert: Leave Your Bags in an Emergency On September 16, 2025, the FAA issued a new Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO 25003), entitled “Addressing Risk Associated with Passenger Non-Compliance and Retention of Carry-On Baggage and Personal Items During Emergency Evacuations.” Why? Because recent incidents show passengers keep trying to retrieve their belongings in emergencies—slowing down evacuation, blocking aisles, sometimes even damaging those all-important emergency slides. Not really what you want when every second matters, right? Three days later, in a follow-up statement on September 19, the FAA urged U.S. airlines to toughen up their protocols: make safety messages, crew training, and actual evacuation instructions even clearer and firmer. The agency’s own reports leave no doubt: failing to leave your bag behind increases the risk of: Speeders expecting fines get an unexpected twist: police hand out praise instead of tickets New Helmet Law in Europe: What Motorcyclists Need to Know About the Stricter Safety Standards Starting July 1 Blocked aisles and exits People tripping or falling Precious evacuation time lost, eating into the survival window More injuries, and ultimately, more fatalities Before you start worrying about sudden fines if your hand touches your wheelie bag, don’t panic: the FAA emphasized that this alert isn’t a binding new regulation. SAFOs are official Flight Standards Service recommendations, but they pack significant weight for airline investigators and inspectors, who use them to push for compliance. In the coming weeks, airlines are expected to update procedures: think revised safety demos and cards, harmonized safety PA announcements, evacuation drill scenarios that factor in “grabby” passengers, and mandatory, effective exit-row briefings every time.Life insurance The FAA also suggests that safety efforts should extend beyond the cabin. Airports can help by posting clear displays, running educational videos, putting up universal icons (who doesn’t love a pictogram?), and using punchy slogans like “For everyone’s safety, leave your bags.” One Rule Ignored Worldwide—With Fatal Consequences This isn’t just an American thing. Data from recent emergencies says it’s a global problem. In 2019, for example, 41 people died in the fiery evacuation of a Sukhoi Superjet at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport. Photos captured passengers escaping with bags in hand, reigniting questions about whether people actually listen to preflight instructions. Unfortunately, similar situations have been recorded in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. The bottom line? People everywhere grab their bags, and it costs lives. Here’s the chilling math: international aviation regulations (ICAO) require that an airliner be evacuable in 90 seconds flat using only half the exits. But in reality, reaching that 90-second goal amid chaos, panic, and yes—people digging for their luggage—is hard, sometimes impossible. Every second counts, and every bag in the aisle is a potential blockade. Why Can’t People Just Follow the Rule? Let’s face it, airline safety is rarely as simple as “Just do X and everything’s fine.” Picture, for a moment, a lithium battery catching fire inside a locked overhead bin—one you can’t open because the seatbelt sign’s on. Complex, right? Some passengers say they’re not surprised certain airlines don’t remind people every time. For example, Air France consistently repeats the message, both before take-off and landing. But the question remains: is grabbing your bag in an emergency a criminal offense that endangers others’ lives? In France, penalties can be as high as one year in prison or a €15,000 fine (roughly $16,000 USD). Add a “bag lock” mechanism to keep bins shut? Most think it’d just be one more thing to break, not a solution. La seule solution serait pas de mettre des consignes de sécurité partout car les gens les connaissent. Mais plutôt d’obliger les companies a faire des message du genre “En cas d’incident amenant à l’évacuation de l’avion, nous vous remboursons l’intégralité de vos biens”. Car les gens qui prennent leurs affaires savent qu’il ne faut pas, ils connaissent juste à quel point les companies aériennes sont des rats et que meme en cas d’accident c’est eux qui devront payer Airplane emergency kit Translation: “The only real solution isn’t more safety instructions—everyone knows them. Airlines should be required to say, ‘In case of emergency evacuation, we’ll fully reimburse your things.’ Passengers know they’re not supposed to take their bags—they just don’t trust airlines to compensate them if disaster strikes.” Others go in the opposite direction, arguing that people should be trained to have a small, easily secured emergency pouch—strictly for a laptop, phone, documents, or medication—something that won’t block exits or hold anyone up. Realistically, carry-on cases rarely contain anything truly irreplaceable—usually just a laptop, some meds, and a few bits and bobs. Maybe tough fines (again, €15,000/$16,000 USD and a flying ban for offenders) could make people take the rule to heart. Would folks feel more reassured?Travel bag review In summary: your bag isn’t worth your life, or anyone else’s. Trust the process, follow the crew’s instructions, and remember—you can always shop for a new toothbrush once you’re safe on the ground. https://carrollcountyobserver.com/2025/11/21/faa-issues-urgent-warning-leaving-bags-behind-in-airplane-evacuations-could-be-a-matter-of-life-and-death/ PhD GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY REQUEST My name is Nathan Schultz, and I am a doctoral candidate at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the Ph.D. in Aviation program. I am conducting my dissertation research under the guidance of Dr. Scott Winter. We are interested in understanding pilot perspectives on operating at airports under various weather conditions. I am seeking participants to complete a brief online survey (5-7 minutes). Eligibility Requirements: -Must be 18 years of age or older -Must hold an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) certification -Must be a current or former pilot of crewed aircraft (UAS-only pilots are not eligible) Additional Information: -Participation is entirely voluntary and anonymous -There will be no compensation for participation -The study has been approved by the Embry-Riddle Institutional Review Board (IRB) Please use the following electronic questionnaire link: https://forms.gle/x6rbqNRGiRYm96ADA Best regards, Nathan Schultz PhD in Aviation, Candidate Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University CALENDAR OF EVENTS . 2026 ACSF Safety Symposium; April 7-9, 2026; ERAU Daytona Beach, FL . 2026 NBAA Maintenance Conference; May 5-7, 2026; New Orleans, LA . BASS 2026 - 71st Business Aviation Safety Summit - May 5-6, 2026 | Provo, Utah . The African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit - May 19-20 | Johannesburg, South Africa . Safeskies Australia - Australia’s renowned Aviation Safety Conference - Canberra Australia 20 and 21 May 2026 . 2026 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) Oct. 20-22, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV Curt Lewis