Aviation News (& deals!)!
Here, we present news articles (and deals) from around the world in the realm of aviation, travel, and the industry at large!
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These are some of the biggest stories in travel and aviation right now. Free to view!
Enjoy!
(All articles are parsed by date originally published.)
All sources are listed or if not given, offered by request.
News articles are deleted after 1 month for continued relevancy.
4/4/26
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AA Hell
A dramatic touchdown at O'Hare International Airport as an American Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner makes an unscheduled emergency landing. Passengers describe tense moments during descent, as crews worked swiftly to bring the aircraft down safely. Scenes like this highlight the skill, training, and composure of pilots and flight crews when facing unexpected challenges. Emergency landings are rare, but aviation systems are built with layers of safety to handle exactly these situations. As investigations begin, the focus remains on ensuring passenger safety and understanding what led to the incident.
Book your consultation today here and avoid the hell that is American Airlines!
Source: Chicago Tribune
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4/3/26
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4/2/26
Alaska Safety
An Alaska Airlines flight safely returned to Seattle shortly after takeoff following an unexpected issue onboard. The crew made the precautionary decision to turn back, prioritizing passenger safety above all else. Emergency responders were on standby as the aircraft landed, ensuring a smooth and secure arrival. Fortunately, no major injuries have been reported, and passengers were assisted promptly. Incidents like these highlight the importance of strict aviation safety protocols and the professionalism of flight crews who handle unexpected situations with calm and precision. Safety always comes first.
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Source: King 5 News
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4/1/26
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Travel through San Francisco is about to get a lot more chaotic.
The FAA has slashed arrival capacity at San Francisco International Airport by 33%, reducing landings from 54 flights per hour to just 36. The decision comes as runway construction collides with new safety rules that limit how closely planes can land side-by-side.
The result? Delays are expected to spike fast.
Officials say up to 1 in 4 arriving flights could now face delays of 30 minutes or more — a major jump that will ripple across the entire network.
For United Airlines, this hits hard. SFO is one of its biggest hubs, meaning disruptions here won’t just stay in California — they’ll spread nationwide and even impact international connections.
Even after construction wraps up, some of these FAA restrictions may stay in place, meaning this could be more than just a temporary slowdown.
If you’re flying through SFO anytime soon… plan ahead.
Because this isn’t just a delay problem — it’s a system-wide squeeze.
Join us today!
Source: SFO. org
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Women Make History!
Today, NASA astronaut Christina Koch, an engineer and record-holder for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, is the first woman to travel around the Moon as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission. She is part of the four-person crew that is flying the Orion spacecraft, marking the first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years.
Join us at our blogs!
Source: NASA.gov
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A portrait in courage.
Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy, 6th President of Ukraine, born to a Russian-speaking Jewish family, Kryvyi Rih Ukraine. His father, Oleksandr, is professor of cybernetics and computer science at Kryvyi Rih State University of Economics and Technology. His mother, Rymma Zelenska, is a retired engineer. His grandfather, Semyon, served as an infantryman, reaching the rank of colonel in the Red Army, in the 57th Guards Motor Rifle Division, during WWII.
The rest of his immediate family was killed in the Holocaust or during the evacuation of the Ukrainian Jews to Almaty, Kazakhstan. He still attends Synagogue every Sabbath, often in a bunker with other Jewish soldiers.
Source: Ukraine News
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3/31/26
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Trump Gets Airport
Palm Beach International Airport is now officially renamed as “President Donald J. Trump International Airport.”
Escape through a consultation with us here!
Source: Miami Herald News
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EgyptAir New Nonstop Announced
Egypt Air has announced the launch of new non-stop flights connecting Cairo ( CAI), Egypt and Chicago O’Hare ( ORD), Illinois USA, set to commence on June 21 2026.
- The airline will operate three weekly flights on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, using Airbus A350-900 long-haul aircraft.
- Flight Schedule, ( all times local)
- CAI-ORD: Flight MS947, departure 00:50, arrival 05:15 AM.
- ORD-CAI: Flight MS948, departure 10:30 AM, arrival 05:40 AM +1 day.
- Flight Time: Outbound 12 hours 25 minutes, inbound 11 hours 10 minutes.
Source: OMAAT
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3/30/26
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Icelandair Welcomes A321
Icelandair has welcomed it's 6th Airbus A321neo aircraft from Airbus.
Aircraft Type: A321LR
•Reg: TF-IAE
•Engines: 2x Pratt & Whitney GTF engines
•Aircraft Name: Hofsjökull
•Seat Configuration: 187 seats ( 22 business class and 165 economy class seats).
Source: Reykjavik Daily News
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3/29/26
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A landmark deal for United's cabin crew. United Airlines and the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA announced a new tentative agreement on Wednesday that, if ratified, would make United's 30,000 flight attendants the best-paid in the industry, according to a United Airlines press release.
According to United, the deal includes immediate raises upon ratification, with top hourly wages reaching $100 per hour by the end of the five-year contract. It also includes boarding pay, new pay for long gaps between flights, limits on red-eye assignments, and a signing bonus for every flight attendant worth a combined $740 million.
CNBC reports this is the first raise for United's flight attendants in roughly six years, as they have been working without a contract update since 2020. A previous tentative agreement was rejected by the membership in July 2025, sending both sides back to federal mediation.
The agreement must first be approved by the AFA's Master Executive Council before going to a full membership vote.
Take advantage of this situation here!
Source: United Newsroom
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Delta Makes Whoopsie
A Delta Connection flight operated by Republic Airways had an embarrassing but ultimately safe mix-up over New York after the crew accidentally contacted JFK Tower instead of LaGuardia Tower during final approach, as both use the New York TRACON.
Flight RPA5752, operating from Washington Reagan National to LaGuardia on an Embraer ERJ-170, had established on the ILS for Runway 4R when the crew switched to the wrong frequency. The JFK Tower controller initially responded and even issued a landing clearance before realizing the aircraft was not heading to Kennedy at all.
After confirming the crew was on 2-mile final for LaGuardia, the JFK controller promptly directed them to the correct frequency.
The crew immediately declared a go-around, climbed to 2,000 feet then 3,000 feet and was handed back to approach control for a fresh ILS sequence. No injuries or damage occurred.
New York's airspace is one of the busiest in the world with 3 major airports within a 12-mile radius of Manhattan handling around 3,500 flights daily. Both LaGuardia and JFK share the Runway 4R designation, making frequency errors easier to miss during the high-workload final approach phase.
The incident ended safely thanks to quick reactions from both crew and controllers.
Source: OMAAT
More here!
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American Substitutes Bus Rides!
It has come to light that multiple American Airlines passengers have recently gone viral on TikTok after discovering that their booked and paid-for flights were actually "luxury" bus rides.
That's exactly what happened to Kennedy Woodard-Jones, who booked a flight from South Bend, Indiana to Chicago O'Hare on American Airlines. She did everything normally. Checked in, picked her seat, cleared TSA. Then she saw her luggage being loaded under a bus at the gate. She figured it was a shuttle to the plane. But the bus left the airport, got on the highway, and just kept driving.
Her TikTok about the experience has over 13 million views, and dozens of other passengers have come forward with the same story.
So what's going on? American Airlines partners with a company called Landline to replace certain short routes with bus rides. The buses carry real flight numbers, show up with airplane icons on boarding passes, and passengers board by group number at the gate.
Just like a real flight. Except there's no airplane.
American says it's clearly disclosed on their website during booking. But many passengers, especially those booking through third-party sites, say they never saw any mention of a bus. See more and book your travel consultation WITHOUT a bus at here!
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Turboprops Fade
Starting March 29, 2026, the sound of turboprops fades from Manila
All turboprop operations of Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirSWIFT are officially transferred from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Clark International Airport (formerly Clark US Air Fore Base).
This marks the full completion of the Department of Transportation’s directive to move all turboprop aircraft out of MNL, aimed at decongesting the country’s main gateway and improving passenger flow.
After years of daily arrivals and departures, turboprops have now taken their final bow at NAIA.
A historic shift in Philippine aviation, and the start of a quieter, more efficient future for Manila’s skies.
Source: Philippine News 1
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E-3 Sentry Destroyed
This one needs careful framing. Right now, the strongest open-source reporting does not clearly support a clean “destroyed” claim as a settled fact. More credible defense reporting indicates a U.S. Air Force (USAF) E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft was at the very least least damaged during an Iranian missile and drone attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, while newer imagery-based reporting suggests the aircraft may have suffered catastrophic fire damage afterward. The safest analytical read is that the aircraft was at minimum put out of action, and possibly written off, but public confirmation remains incomplete. That distinction matters because the E-3 fleet is already small, aging, and operationally strained in a high-demand theater.
Source: Stars & Stripes News
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AA Seatback Revitalize?
American Airlines is reportedly reconsidering bringing back seatback screens on its narrowbody aircraft, nearly eight years after removing them as part of a cost cutting strategy. The move is under serious review as the airline looks to compete more effectively with rivals like Delta Air Lines and United Airlines which have focused heavily on premium passenger experience.
American originally removed screens in 2017 under its Project Oasis programme aiming to reduce costs and rely on personal device entertainment instead.
However, this approach faced criticism and the airline has since struggled to attract higher spending passengers compared to competitors offering more onboard comfort and features.
The airline is also exploring faster inflight connectivity options including partnerships with Amazon and Starlink.
Reintroducing screens would be costly and time consuming but it could play a key role in improving passenger experience and helping American regain its competitive edge.
Source: AA Newsroom, OMAAT
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3/28/26
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AA Contrail Hazards?
American Airlines is working with Google to use artificial intelligence to reduce contrail production as it is becoming one of aviation's most significant environmental challenges lately.
Contrails are artificial clouds formed when hot engine exhaust mixes with cold, thin air at high altitude, trapping heat in the atmosphere in a way that may rival or exceed the warming effect of direct CO₂ emissions.
The AI system generates contrail forecast maps, integrated directly into existing flight planning software, suggesting altitude changes and optional routes to avoid areas where contrails are likely to form.
Results have been impressive. A 2023 trial across 70 flights achieved a 54% reduction in contrails. A follow-up study from early 2025 involving 112 transatlantic flights found a 62% reduction in contrail production and a 69% cut in associated warming, with no meaningful increase in fuel burn.
Implemented across an entire airline network, the system is estimated to cost just $5 to $25 per ton of CO₂ equivalent, burning as little as 0.3% more fuel overall.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel also helps by producing less soot, reducing contrail formation.
Hydrogen propulsion remains under investigation though hydrogen engines produce more water vapor than conventional jets, meaning contrails could still form under different conditions.
Source: Dallas Morning News
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American Airlines “bus” flights
A viral TikTok video is putting a surprising airline service in the spotlight—one where passengers think they’re boarding a flight, only to end up traveling by bus instead.
Chicago-based engineer Kennedy Woodard shared her experience after booking what she believed was a flight from South Bend to Chicago. But when she arrived at the gate, there was no plane—just a bus waiting on the tarmac.
At first, she assumed the bus would take passengers to a nearby aircraft. Instead, it drove straight out of the airport and onto the highway.
“That’s when it really hit me… this is my ride to Chicago,” she said.
Woodard later learned she had been booked on American Airlines’ Landline service—a “premium motorcoach” option that connects smaller cities to major hubs like Chicago O’Hare.
The service is designed to function like a flight, with checked baggage, assigned seating, and even onboard snacks. It’s fully integrated into airline booking systems, meaning many travelers may not realize they’re not actually flying.
Despite the confusion, Woodard took it in stride, calling the experience “hilarious” after her video racked up more than 13 million views.
The story has sparked debate online, with some calling it misleading, while others say it’s a smart way to expand airline networks without adding more flights.
Source: CNBC
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3/27/26
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-Delta Suspends Israel Service
Delta Air Lines announced today it is extending the suspension of all flights to Israel through September 5 due to the ongoing security situation in the Middle East.
Service from New York JFK and Atlanta to Tel Aviv, previously operated on the Airbus A330-900neo and A350-900, is now suspended until at least September. The planned launch of a new Boston to Tel Aviv route, originally scheduled for late October, has been delayed indefinitely.
Delta had been flying daily from JFK to Tel Aviv until February 28, when the U.S. and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran. American Airlines and United Airlines have also suspended flights to the region until at least June.
Air traffic at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport remains severely limited. Only Israeli carrier El Al is operating a small number of flights.
Source: Delta Air Lines News
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3/26/26
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Lufthansa Aborted Takeoff
On the evening of Friday, March 20, 2026, Lufthansa Flight LH481 was preparing to depart Denver International Airport bound for Munich. The aircraft was an Airbus A350-900, registration D-AIVD, named Duisburg, which had arrived earlier that day from Munich as LH480. The flight pushed back at approximately 5:27 p.m. and taxied to the runway for departure. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft accelerated normally toward its rotation speed. At approximately 173 knots, a speed at which pilots are typically committed to completing the takeoff unless a critical emergency occurs, the crew made the decision to reject the takeoff and brought the aircraft to a halt near the end of the runway. Emergency vehicles responded immediately as a precautionary measure.
Pilots are trained across all commercial aircraft types that aborting a takeoff at high speed is one of the highest-risk maneuvers in aviation, placing extreme thermal stress on the braking system. Aircraft brakes can overheat rapidly when a fully loaded widebody is brought from near-rotation speed to a standstill, with heat building quickly enough to create fire risk. Airport fire crews responded to cool the brakes and inspect for any overheating or structural damage. The reported cause, based on passenger accounts widely shared on Reddit and later referenced in aviation coverage, was excessive tailwind conditions at the point of departure, a factor that can make rotation unsafe. Lufthansa did not issue an immediate public statement.
The aircraft stopped and remained on the taxiway. It did not return to the gate for an extended period. According to Simple Flying, the A350 sat stranded on the taxiway for approximately six hours as inspections were conducted and operational decisions made. Bus drivers at the airport had gone home by the time the aircraft was eventually cleared for deplaning. Passengers were finally removed via airstairs directly onto the taxiway and bused back to the terminal. The aircraft, a seven-year-old Airbus previously operated by Philippine Airlines before joining Lufthansa in 2022, remained on the apron at Denver after the incident. Lufthansa's next Denver-Munich service departed the following evening with a different aircraft. No injuries were reported.
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Source: Denver Star
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3/25/26
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Emirates Travel Advisory!
Emirates urges travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to arrive at least 2 hours before their scheduled departure, due to adverse weather conditions expected between March 23–27.
Source: EmiratesNews
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3/24/26
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Etihad expanding!
Etihad Airways is launching its largest-ever expansion into the United States, boosting flights by 42% as demand for transatlantic travel continues to climb.
The move marks a major push by the airline to strengthen its presence in key U.S. markets, adding more capacity and connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.
The expansion signals confidence in long-haul demand and highlights growing competition among international carriers for U.S. routes.
With more flights and broader access, travelers can expect increased options — and potentially more competitive fares — as Etihad ramps up its footprint.
Join us here for consultations!
Source: Emirates News
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3/23/26
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-Delta Premium!
Delta Air Lines' Premium Lounge Expansion Targets High-Value Business Travelers In Non-Hub Cities.
Book a consultation now through us here to experience that luxury!
Source: Atlanta Daily News
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UAE Attacked
UAE air defenses are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran. More updates to come.
Focus on Brooke In The Air Travel for more news!
Source: Emirates News
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3/21-3/22/26
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————Ukraine War Updates
Ukrainian forces have reportedly shot down a Russian Ka-52 “Alligator” attack helicopter (not pictured) using a first-person-view (FPV) drone in the Donetsk region, marking a significant development in drone warfare. According to Kyiv Post, the strike was carried out by Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces near the Pokrovsk direction, with footage showing the helicopter crashing and burning after being hit.
According to Ukrinform and other Ukrainian outlets, the helicopter was targeted by a fiber-optic-guided FPV drone operated by units of the 59th Assault Brigade. The strike reportedly forced the aircraft into an emergency landing before it was destroyed on the ground.
United24 Media and The Kyiv Independent reported that the Ka-52—estimated to cost around $16 million—was neutralized along with its crew, who were allegedly eliminated while attempting to evacuate after the crash.
The incident highlights the growing effectiveness of low-cost FPV drones against high-value military assets, underscoring a shift in battlefield dynamics where relatively inexpensive unmanned systems can destroy advanced attack helicopters.
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Source: Ukrinform
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3/20/26
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Tickets Shattering
Airlines Are Breaking Ticket-Sale Records As Travelers Rush To Buy Before Iran-War Price Increases Hit - all legacy US carriers are selling fast. Schedule a consultation with us here!
Source: CNBC
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Premium Debut!
United Airlines To Debut 1st Premium-Heavy Boeing 787-9 From San Francisco Next MontҺ!
Over 24 Polaris suites in business class cabins.
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Source: United Airlines News
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3/19/26
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JetBlue Lawsuit
JetBlue pilots, represented by ALPA, have sued the airline to force arbitration over the "Blue Sky" partnership with United Airlines, arguing it violates contractual job security clauses. The union claims the partnership, which involves code-sharing and slot swaps, improperly farms out work, while management has resisted arbitrating the grievance, prompting the lawsuit
JetBlue pilots are suing their employer in an attempt to force the arbitration of a contractual grievance connected to the carrier’s high-profile Blue Sky partnership with United.
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JetBlue pilots, represented by ALPA, have sued the airline to force arbitration over the "Blue Sky" partnership with United Airlines, arguing it violates contractual job security clauses. The union claims the partnership, which involves code-sharing and slot swaps, improperly farms out work, while management has resisted arbitrating the grievance, prompting the lawsuit.
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Key Details:
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The Lawsuit: The pilot union (ALPA) filed suit to compel arbitration, alleging the "Blue Sky" agreement with United violates existing contract provisions, particularly regarding flight operations.
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Union Position: Union leaders warn the partnership could threaten job security and reduce flying hours, arguing management has failed to honor contract clauses that protect against subcontracting.
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Management Position: JetBlue has maintained that the partnership—which offers reciprocal loyalty benefits and flight scheduling with United—does not breach contract terms and helps support the airline's financial recovery.
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Context: This legal action follows the collapse of JetBlue’s "Northeast Alliance" with American Airlines and the failed merger with Spirit Airlines, bringing further turmoil to labor-management relations.
The suit seeks to force the airline to the negotiating table regarding the impact of the partnership, which critics like Spirit Airlines have already labeled an anti-competitive "merger by stealth".
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Source: CNBC
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Ukraine-Qatar Linked
Ukraine is deepening defense cooperation with Qatar by leveraging its combat-proven drone expertise while integrating Western-supplied airpower such as the Mirage 2000 into its broader operational framework. Discussions between Kyiv, Doha, and partners include potential transfers or joint use of Ukrainian interceptor drones to counter Iranian unmanned threats, reflecting growing demand for cost-effective air defense solutions. At the same time, Mirage fighters are expected to enhance Ukraine’s ability to intercept aerial threats, including cruise missiles and drones, adding a higher-end layer to its air defense network. The cooperation highlights Ukraine’s transition from a security consumer to a provider of drone warfare capabilities.
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Source: Ukrinform
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Breeze Airways is expanding again.
The leisure carrier will begin flying to San Jose in Costa Rica this fall, extending the airline's route map to Central America for the first time and cementing its 2026 status as the fastest-growing air carrier in North America.
The Costa Rica route was one of two that Breeze announced on Tuesday. Both are from Tampa International Airport (TPA), which also landed service to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic — a destination Breeze already serves with flights from Raleigh, North Carolina.
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Source: The Points Guy
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Volcano Erupts!
Nature unleashes its raw power as a volcano erupts with intense force. Lava flows, towering ash clouds, and flying debris paint a dramatic and dangerous scene, prompting immediate evacuation orders for nearby communities. Authorities are working to ensure aviation safety as conditions continue to evolve. Events like these are a stark reminder of how unpredictable and powerful our planet can be—where preparedness and quick response can make all the difference.
Source: U.S. Geological Survey
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One-way fares start at $39 on ICE Air, er, Avelo!
The now-quasi-former Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) Airline is offering two new destinations for 39 USD [er seat. Indianapolis, and Cleveland.
Indianapolis service begins June 18, 2026, with twice-weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays via Indianapolis International Airport (IND).
Cleveland service begins June 19, 2026, with twice-weekly flights on Mondays and Fridays via Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport (CLE).
Join our blogs for more news and tips!
Source: FOX 8 Cleveland
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Across the USA by Train for Just $213
Amtrak coast to coast.
New York City, NY to Emeryville station outside San Francisco, CA
Book a consultation now!
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3/17/26
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Trump Threatens NATO
German Chancellor Merz's spokesman Stefan Kornelius confirmed Monday that Berlin sees zero legal or political basis for NATO military involvement in securing the strategic waterway, pointedly noting that allied partners were neither consulted before operations began nor invited to participate at the outset. British Prime Minister Starmer independently drew the same red line, insisting any future deployment requires both a clear legal framework and a defined operational plan before British forces could be committed. France is separately assembling a multinational commercial shipping escort coalition with Netherlands, Italy, Greece, and potentially Spain, conditioned on a calmer security environment, while EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed Aspides expansion remains under active ministerial review.
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Source: EU News Today
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Girl Creates Travel-hack
Kyndall Brooke Roberts, 32, from Daytona Beach, Florida, faced a problem at airport security when her full-sized spray tan bottle exceeded the TSA liquid limit. Instead of throwing it away or checking a bag, she came up with a creative idea.
She found a decorative plant in the terminal, crouched down, and hid the bottle in the soil, planning to retrieve it after her trip.
Four days later, she returned, went straight to the plant, and found the bottle exactly where she left it. She filmed the moment and shared it online, where it quickly went viral as a clever travel hack.
Later, the airport revealed they offer a free mail-back service for restricted items, suggesting passengers use that option instead.
Still, they admitted her determination was impressive.
Source: CNN
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BA Set for London-Colombo Flights
British Airways to Launch London Gatwick-Colombo Flights from 23rd of October, 2026
British Airways has announced a major expansion of its network for the Winter 2026 season, including the introduction of two new destinations, Melbourne in Australia and Colombo in Sri Lanka, marking the airline’s return to Sri Lanka for the first time since 2015.
The airline plans to commence flights between London Gatwick and Colombo on 23 October 2026, operating three times per week during the winter season. The seasonal service will provide travellers with a direct connection to Sri Lanka, a destination known for its scenic beaches, wildlife, vibrant culture and rich cuisine.
Passengers will have a choice of three cabin classes: World Traveller (Economy), World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy) and Club World (Business Class).
Available to book from today (17 March 2026), the three-times weekly flights will commence from 23 October 2026, operated by the airline’s Boeing 777 fleet, with a three-class configuration in Club World (long-haul business class), World Traveller Plus (long-haul premium economy) and World Traveller (long-haul economy) cabin. British Airways is offering return fares from USD 870 in World Traveller and USD 3765 in Club World.
(Hayleys Aviation serves as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for British Airways in Sri Lanka, managing the airline’s commercial and sales operations in the local market.)
Source: Times of London
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3/16/26
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Kenya Joins JetBlue
Kenya Airways has announced a new codeshare partnership with JetBlue, expanding travel options between Africa and the United States.
Under the agreement, passengers will be able to book seamless itineraries that combine Kenya Airways’ long-haul services with JetBlue’s extensive U.S. domestic network. The partnership is expected to make connections easier for travelers flying between cities in Africa and destinations across North America.
The codeshare arrangement will allow Kenya Airways customers arriving in the U.S. to connect onto JetBlue flights using a single booking, streamlined baggage transfers, and coordinated schedules.
Airline executives say the partnership strengthens both carriers’ global reach while improving connectivity for international travelers.
More details about specific routes and launch timelines are expected to be announced soon.
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Source: Kenya World News
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3/15/26
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Storm-tossed A320
A dramatic cockpit viewpoint appears as pilots guide an Airbus A320 through intense storm activity on approach to Tokyo. 💥
Lightning flashes across the night sky while advanced cockpit instruments help the flight crew safely navigate heavy rain, turbulence, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Moments like this highlight the skill, training, and precision required from airline pilots during challenging approaches.
Modern aircraft systems, weather radar, and coordinated air traffic control support allow crews to safely manage severe conditions while maintaining strict safety standards.
Behind every safe landing is a combination of technology, experience, and calm decision-making—even when the skies are at their most dramatic. Join us at our blogs here for more!
Source: Pilot Training Guide
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3/14/26
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History: UA 232
July 19, 1989. United Airlines Flight 232 was cruising at 37,000 feet over Iowa. Routine flight. Denver to Chicago. 296 people on board. Then the tail engine exploded. Shrapnel severed every hydraulic line on the plane. All three systems gone. No rudder. No ailerons. No flaps. Nothing.
There was no procedure for this. No pilot had ever trained for it.
Captain Al Haynes and his crew had one thing left. Engine thrust. They discovered they could roughly steer the DC-10 by running one engine faster than the other. An off duty instructor pilot named Dennis Fitch was on board as a passenger. He came to the cockpit and took the throttles. One in each hand.
When ATC cleared them to land on any runway, Haynes laughed. "You want to be particular and make it a runway, huh?" When ATC asked them to turn, Haynes replied: "Whatever you do, keep us away from the city."
Then came the passenger announcement. According to crew recollections, Haynes told the passengers exactly what was coming. No sugarcoating. Just the truth.
The DC-10 hit the runway at nearly double the normal landing speed. It cartwheeled, broke apart, and burst into flames. 184 people survived. 112 did not.
Haynes later said: "We were too busy to be scared. You must maintain your composure in the airplane or you will die."
He retired in 1991 and spent the rest of his life speaking about aviation safety. He passed away on August 25, 2019. Six days before his 88th birthday.
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3/13/26
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Aviation Incident: United Bird Strike!
A United Airlines Airbus A320 was forced to return to Chicago O’Hare shortly after departure following a reported bird strike. The unexpected encounter caused visible damage near the aircraft’s nose, prompting the flight crew to initiate precautionary procedures and head back to the airport. Air traffic control coordinated the aircraft’s return while emergency services remained on standby as the jet approached the runway. The aircraft landed safely without further complications, and passengers were able to disembark normally after the plane reached the gate. Bird strikes are a known challenge in aviation, particularly during takeoff and landing phases when aircraft operate at lower altitudes. Airlines and airports use multiple safety measures to reduce wildlife risks, but such incidents can still occur. Maintenance teams will now inspect the aircraft to assess the damage before it can return to service. Subscribe to our blogs at this link to learn more!
Source: Aviation Daily
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SWA Vacating ORD & IAD
Southwest Airlines Will Stop Chicago O'Hare, Washington Dulles Flights Beginning June 4
Source: Dallas Morning News
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3/12/26
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Emirates Under Attack
Images circulating on social media appear to show Emirates aircraft landing past a large plume of smoke rising near Dubai International Airport following a reported drone attack on a fuel storage facility serving the airport during the early morning hours of March 16, 2026.
Emergency crews quickly responded to contain the blaze and no injuries have been reported. Witnesses in Dubai say the fire continued burning throughout much of the day as authorities worked to control the situation.
In the latest update, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Dubai authorities have suspended operations for all foreign airlines at Dubai airports until further notice as a precaution following the incident.
Flights operated by UAE-based carriers such as Emirates and flydubai are continuing to operate with adjustments while authorities assess the situation and gradually restore normal airport operations.
Join our blogs for more news !
Source: Arabic social media / regional reports
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3/11/26
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New STARLUX Livery - jet black
One of the two AIRSORAYAMA Airbus A350-1000 livery aircraft for STARLUX Airlines has officially rolled out of the paint shop at Airbus facilities in Toulouse, France. This livery is in all jet-black.
The first STARLUX Airbus A350-1000 "AIRSORAYAMA SILVER" with registration B-58553 is awaiting its engines to be installed.
In January this year, STARLUX has collaborated with the iconic Japanese artist Hajime SORAYAMA, who personally designed two A350-1000 (B-58553 and B-58554), transforming them into elegant, gleaming masterpieces in the sky.
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Breeze Expansion to Provo
Breeze Airways has announced new nonstop services from Provo Airport to Raleigh-Durham, NC and Las Vegas, NV, along with new one-stop, no change of plane services to Arcata-Eureka, CA, and New Redmond, OR.
Source: ABC News 4
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History: Boeing 707 - Travolta
A legendary jet begins its long journey home. This week along Highway 17 in Brunswick, Georgia, the historic Boeing 707-138B once flown by John Travolta was spotted being transported as it prepares to return to Australia.
Originally delivered to Qantas in 1964 as VH-EBM “City of Launceston,” the aircraft later flew for Braniff International Airways between 1969–1974 as N108BN. Travolta purchased the jet in 1998 and had it repainted in the classic Qantas “V-Jet” livery for a marketing campaign in 2002.
In 2017, Travolta donated the aircraft to the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society at the HARS Aviation Museum. After years of delays due to corrosion repairs, maintenance challenges, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the plan to fly the aging jet across the Pacific was officially abandoned in 2025.
Instead, the iconic 707 is now heading to Australia by sea in several large components. Once reassembled, HARS engineers hope to restore the aircraft to a condition where it can at least taxi under its own power — preserving an important piece of aviation history.
Source: Qantas Updates
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Delta to Malta
Travelers will soon be able to fly directly between Malta and New York for the first time, as Delta Air Lines prepares to launch a new transatlantic route this summer.
Source: Delta Air Lines News/Malta Daily News
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United Lawsuit?
A mother has filed a lawsuit against United Airlines after her four-year-old daughter was allegedly burned by “scalding” hot water during a long-haul flight to Tel Aviv.
According to a complaint obtained by People, the incident occurred in April 2025 on a flight traveling from Newark Liberty International Airport to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV).
The lawsuit claims a cabin crew member handed an uncovered cup of hot water to one of the family’s other minor children. The cup allegedly fell during the handover and spilled onto the four-year-old girl, causing what the complaint describes as serious burns and permanent scarring.
The child’s mother, Miriam Landynski, alleges the incident violated “all safety and common-sense standards.” The filing states the young passenger suffered significant pain, mental anguish, and permanent injury as a result of the accident.
According to the complaint, the family has already faced substantial medical costs and expects to incur further expenses in the future as their daughter continues treatment. The lawsuit also claims the child has been deprived of normal activities and enjoyment of life following the injuries.
Landynski is seeking damages from United Airlines for medical expenses and ongoing suffering, though the filing does not specify a dollar amount and instead asks the court to determine compensation at trial.
United Airlines and the family’s attorney had not publicly commented on the case at the time of publication.
Source: People Magazine
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3/10/26
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Flight Update
Qatar Airways has announced additional limited flights to and from Doha until 12 March 2026, after temporary approval from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.
• Departures from Doha: 10–11 March 2026
• Arrivals to Doha: 10–12 March 2026
These flights are operating through limited corridors and do not mean that regular commercial flights have fully resumed.
More updates are expected soon.
Source: Qatar Civil Aviation Authority
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Euro-Travel Stalled
European travel hit a major wall with 212 flight cancellations and 1,698 significant delays reported across the continent on 9 March.
The data shows that the UK, Germany, and France took the biggest hits, leaving thousands of passengers scrambling for new routes.
London Heathrow alone saw 44 flights scrubbed and 195 delayed, while Amsterdam Schiphol struggled through 25 cancellations and 201 delays.
This disruption is driven by a serious combination of Middle East airspace closures and localized staff shortages. Because planes are being forced to fly thousands of miles off their usual tracks to avoid conflict zones, crews are timing out and aircraft are ending up in the wrong cities.
Major carriers like KLM, British Airways, and Air France are feeling the most pressure, with some extending flight suspensions through the end of the week.
If you are currently on the ground or planning to head to a major hub like Frankfurt or Paris-CDG, you should prepare for terminal congestion and very long lines at customer service desks.
Most airlines are advising travelers to arrive at least 4 hours before departure even for short-haul trips.
If your flight is one of the hundreds delayed, keep your receipts for food and water, as EU regulations require airlines to cover these costs during extended waits.
The situation at Charles de Gaulle is particularly messy right now because the staffing shortages in ground handling mean they can't even get the bags off the planes that actually manage to land. If you are flying into Paris this week, try to stick to a carry-on if possible, otherwise you might be waiting at the luggage carousel for 2 or 3 hours after you land.
In Frankfurt, the staff shortages are making the weather and rerouting issues ten times worse. Yesterday, there were only a few gates open for de-icing, so planes were just sitting on the tarmac for hours waiting for their turn, which eventually led to pilots hitting their legal flying hour limits before they could even take off.
Source: European Travel Commission
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TSA Agents Unpaid Progress
Travelers at US airports can check estimated TSA security wait times through the MyTSA app, their airport’s website, or by searching their airport online, but officials warn the estimates may be inaccurate and long lines have led some airports to recommend arriving up to five hours early for flights. This applies to virtually all airports.
Source: Transportation Security Agency
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3/9/26
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NO UK HELP
According FT, Britain has scrapped contingency plans to send the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales to the Middle East following Donald Trump’s mocking of Sir Keir Starmer for supposedly wanting to join the war with Iran after it had already been “won”.
Source: FT News
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Oman Air Rescue Flights
Oman Air has successfully facilitated the travel of over 97,000 passengers by operating nearly 80 additional flights over the last week. Despite regional airspace closures affecting some routes, the airline’s core network to Europe, Africa, and South-East Asia remains fully operational. Additional bus services are also supporting those travelling from the UAE to catch flights from Muscat.
Read More: https://www.muscatdaily.com/.../oman-air-transports.../
Source: Muscat Daily
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3/8/26
JAL Tourism Services
Japan Airlines is offering free domestic flights to certain international visitors as part of a tourism initiative. 🌸🗾
The goal is to encourage travelers to explore beyond Tokyo and Kyoto. 🧳
From the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido to the beaches of Okinawa, more of Japan is now within reach.
Join our blogs for more!
Source: Japan News of Tokyo
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Emirates Resumes Flights as Regular
Emirates has announced that its global flight network is expected to return to 100% operations in the coming days, according to a statement released on Friday.
The update follows nearly seven days of airspace closures and flight suspensions across the United Arab Emirates, which left thousands of travelers stranded and disrupted schedules across multiple routes.
Earlier this week, the Dubai-based airline said it would gradually resume services with a reduced schedule, reopening bookings for 75 destinations worldwide. The carrier now expects the number of operational destinations to increase to 83 by Saturday, March 7, bringing its network to about 60% capacity.
Emirates added that operations will continue to scale up, with the full network expected to be restored in the coming days as conditions stabilize.
See more at our blogs!
Source: Emirates News
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MH 370 Forever Lost
A resumed deep-sea search by Ocean Infinity for the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 has been unsuccessful.
According to Malaysia's Air Accident Investigation Bureau, the 28 days of searching, covering more than 2,900 square miles (7,500 sq km), had yielded no new findings.
The marine robotics company Ocean Infinity had been given permission to scour the Indian Ocean on a "no find, no fee" basis.
The agreement meant it would only be paid $70m (£52m) if the wreckage was located.
Previous search efforts were hampered by extreme conditions and failed to locate the wreckage, despite debris appearing on distant shores.
MH370 was carrying 227 passengers and 12 crew members when it vanished, becoming one of the world's most unsolved aviation mysteries.
Source: OceanInfinity - Updates
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U.S. Military Lies?
Over 3000 targets struck in the first week, and it will only get more intense from here. Military aviation and dominating airpower is shaping world history right now.
Source: MilNews
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Drone Strike
Drones have struck fuel storage tanks at Kuwait International Airport early this morning according to sources. No casualties reported, but no further details are given at this time.
Source: Kuwait Ministry of Communications
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UPS Airlines is closing the chapter on an aviation icon.
After more than 30 years of service, the carrier has accelerated the retirement of its McDonnell Douglas MD-11 freighters following the November 2025 accident involving UPS Flight 2976 crash. At the time, around 26 of the tri-jets were still flying in the fleet.
So what takes their place?
The immediate backbone becomes the Boeing 767-300F, with roughly 100 already in service and more on the way. While the MD-11 could haul over 90 tons of cargo, the 767 typically carries about 53 tons—but does so with far better fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs thanks to its modern twin-engine design.
For the heaviest long-haul routes, UPS continues to rely on the massive Boeing 747-8F, linking major global hubs like Louisville and Cologne with unmatched cargo capacity.
Rather than replacing the MD-11 with a single aircraft, UPS is shifting to a smarter mix: efficient 767 freighters for flexibility and powerful 747-8Fs for high-volume trunk routes. It’s a clear sign of how modern cargo fleets are evolving—focused on efficiency, range, and operational flexibility.
See more at our blogs here!
Source: UPS PR
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American Airlines Criticism
American Airlines is facing significant criticism from premium travelers following a catering breakdown on flights departing London Heathrow. Despite a wider company push toward elevated premium revenue, passengers flying in Flagship First and Business Class from one of the airline's most important international gateways are receiving reduced meal service and boxed wine in place of the curated bottle selections normally offered.
The disruption began on February 28, 2026, when American abruptly halted its catering arrangement with its London Heathrow provider, D’nata. The exact cause has not been officially confirmed by American Airlines. Reports from aviation insiders have cited a possible hygiene issue (possible mice infestation) at the catering facility, though D’nata has firmly denied these allegations and states that independent audits confirm its facility meets all food safety requirements.
Rather than sourcing alternative local catering, American has opted to double-cater flights departing the United States, flying all food across the Atlantic and using it for the return leg out of London. This means passengers in premium cabins are receiving single-tray service with limited options, no seafood, no ice cream, and boxed wine instead of bottled selections. American is offering some affected passengers 10,000 AAdvantage miles as compensation. The airline has acknowledged the disruption and stated it is working to resolve the situation, but has not confirmed a timeline for a return to normal service.
See more news on Brooke In The Air Travel at our blogs!
Source: PR Newswire
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3/7/26
Southwest Security Treat?
A Southwest Airlines Flight 2094 flying from Nashville (BNA) to Fort Lauderdale (FLL) was forced to divert to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Friday night following a reported security threat at FL350.
On arrival, a passenger was removed from the plane by FLL security personnel and transferred to county police.
Source: Karli Bonne’ 🇺🇸 @KarluskaP
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3/6/26
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Typhoon Relocation
Four RAF Typhoon aircraft have deployed from Royal Air Force Coningsby to Qatar to strengthen the UK’s air presence in the Middle East.
The aircraft will join the existing UK Typhoon force already in theatre and operate alongside personnel from 12 Squadron and the Qatari Typhoon squadron. Operating from Qatar, the additional aircraft will support Bahraini and Emirati air defense while enhancing the RAF’s ability to conduct air operations across the region.
This deployment reinforces the United Kingdom’s commitment to regional stability and collective security with partners across the Gulf.
The Typhoon is the RAF’s premier multi-role combat aircraft, capable of air policing, air defense and precision strike operations. Its deployment highlights the RAF’s continued role in supporting UK defense commitments and working closely with international partners.
Source: BBC News
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Airfare Increasing
Airfare going up due to oil prices skyrocketing amid the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby agrees.
Source: CNBC
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ADIZ Incursion
Yesterday, two Russian Tu-142 “Bear-F” maritime patrol aircraft triggered a large NORAD response after entering the Alaskan and Canadian Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZ).
To identify and monitor the aircraft, NORAD launched a substantial intercept package that included two F-22 Raptors, two F-35 fighters, four KC-135 aerial refueling tankers, an E-3 AWACS aircraft, two Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 fighters, and a Canadian CC-150 tanker.
The Russian aircraft remained in international airspace and never entered US or Canadian sovereign airspace. Russian flights near Alaska are fairly routine, but the size of the intercept package involved in this response was noticeably larger than what is typically seen.
Source: Military.com
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3/5/26
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Qatar Remains Closed
Qatar Airways Group confirms the temporary suspension of its flights to, and from, Doha due to the closure of Qatari airspace.
Stay tuned here at brookeintheairtravel.squarespace.com
Source: QatarAirways.com news
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3/4/26
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NTSB Final Report: UA 2477
Pilot Flight Time: Captain - 20500 hours (Total, all aircraft), 15192 hours (Total, this make and model)
F/O - 4900 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1200 hours (Total, this make and model)
On March 8, 2024, about 0758 central standard time (CST), United Airlines flight 2477, a Boeing 737-8, N27290, departed taxiway SC after turning off of runway 27 at high speed after landing at IAH. The left main landing gear departed the paved surface and impacted a concrete structure, that was recessed in the ground, resulting in its separation (see figures 2 and 3). None of the 6 crew and 160 passengers were injured and deplaned via airstairs. Flight 2477 operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121 scheduled domestic passenger flight from Memphis International Airport (MEM), Memphis, Tennessee to IAH.
According to the flight crew, the captain was the pilot flying and the FO was the pilot monitoring. The captain said he observed the reported runway surface condition codes when checking the automatic terminal information system (ATIS) via his electronic flight bag (EFB). Specifically, the captain recalled seeing a runway condition assessment matrix (RCAM) condition code of 3/3/3 for runways 26L and 26R and a condition code of 5/5/5 for runway 27. At the time of the accident, the RCAM code broadcast by the ATIS for runway 27 was 3/3/3, indicating the entire runway was “slippery when wet” and that braking deceleration would be noticeably reduced for the wheel braking effort applied or that directional control would be noticeably reduced.
Source: NTSB Bulletin
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3/3/26
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SPECIAL BULLETIN: In this time of global crisis, Brooke In The Air Travel has made the following statement and article free to read for all. My mission, and to a greater extent, our mission at Brooke In The Air Travel, is to empower women to travel the world safely and confidently. While our team remains intimately aware of global crises (as they can easily impact travel at any given time), my role (and our roles as a team here at BITA Travel) is to provide the practical logistics and security insights that travelers, and especially female travelers desperately need (on the ground, in the air, or at sea). In times of global instability, information is its own form of protection. My personal focus remains on the safety, security, and logistics of the woman traveler. While others analyze (either by choice or preferred necessity) the “why” of a given sociopolitical or geopolitical conflict, I and my company are here to help women navigate the “where next” question and philosophy, and most importantly, the “how to stay safe” question. Because true empowerment for us as women, starts with security, and security equals information and information is power. I’ve done the same at times, especially as a former military analyst for a Washington D.C.-based “thinktank.”
We collectively put in the research of various destinations, often by request, we then obtain the knowledge of various safety protocols for countless airlines, cruises, trains, hotels, resorts, and cities, so we may then pass that knowledge onto you, the traveler. In these crucial times, being a digital nomad (of sorts) is a profession of choice especially when one cannot get out of the country they are visiting.
This is especially prescient given what is currently happening in March of 2026, with the military operations in Iran having shut down virtually the entire airspace as even major transit hubs have been hit with Iranian Shahed “suicide” drones (unmanned aircraft fitted with explosive warheads which are then flown by remote- or satellite- control into targets often hundreds of miles away).
Brooke In The Air Travelcan help you stay safe, informed, confident!
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FAA Resolving Issues?
As the Federal Aviation Administration steps in to resolve overscheduling at Chicago O’Hare, American Airlines is placing the blame squarely on rival United. https://vist.ly/4tr7v
Source: airlinegeeks.com
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3/2/26
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United Makes Big Changes
United Airlines cut miles earned by non-cardholders on tickets booked after April 2.
Additionally,
General members will earn three miles per dollar on United flights instead of five.
Premier 1K elite members lose out on two miles per dollar unless they hold a United card.
Essentially, UA Cardmembers who hold status are rewarded even more for holding standard/general MileagePlus status, or Silver, Gold, Platinum, or the premier 1K (or even the invite-only Global Services tier) status.
Source: United.com news
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Emirates Airborne Again
Good News: Emirates flight EK500 just took off from Dubai International Airport (DXB). Dubai International urges passengers to only visit Airport if your airline contacts you.
As the General Civil Aviation Authority in the UAE has initiated special flight operations to help stranded passengers affected by recent disruptions.
The authority urges passengers to wait for direct contact from airlines regarding flight schedules to avoid airport congestion.
Source: Emirates News
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DXB Conditionally Closed
Dubai Airports has confirmed that all flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are tentatively resumed in a small number until further notice - Only regional flights operating at this time. More updates here at BrookeInTheAirTravel.squarespace.com
Source: Emirates News
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Qatar Airways Customer Service Notice
Qatar Airways says passengers with confirmed bookings between February 28 and March 10 are eligible for complimentary date changes of up to 14 days from their original travel date, or a refund of the unused value of their ticket. The airline announced the policy just after midnight on Tuesday, noting it is experiencing high call volumes and warning of longer wait times. It advised all travelers flying within the next 48 hours to contact the airline directly, while those who booked through a travel agent or third‑party website must reach out to them for assistance.
Source: QatarAirways. com news
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3/1/26
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Kuwait Evacs
Kuwait Airways will be providing transport and housing to passengers outside Kuwait whose flights have been cancelled, the national carrier said in a statement on Saturday. Kuwait Airways is also taking the same measures for transit passengers inside Kuwait, it added, noting that it supervised the process of securing passengers inside Kuwait and beyond in coordination with relevant authorities.
Source: Kuwait News
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UAE Defense
The Ministry of Defense has announced that, on the morning of the second day of the Iranian attack, the UAE Air Force and Air Defense successfully destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, downed 8 missiles into the sea, eliminated 2 cruise missiles, and intercepted 311 drones.
The Ministry of Defense has announced that, on the morning of the second day of the Iranian attack, the UAE Air Force and Air Defense successfully destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, downed 8 missiles into the sea, eliminated 2 cruise missiles, and intercepted 311 drones.
However, 21 drones struck civilian targets, demonstrating the UAE’s capability to respond to various threats. Since the start of the Iranian attack on 28 February 2026, a total of 165 ballistic missiles launched from Iran were detected—152 were destroyed and 13 fell into the sea.
Additionally, 2 cruise missiles were detected and destroyed, and 541 Iranian drones were identified, with 506 intercepted and destroyed. Unfortunately, 35 drones fell within the country, causing material damage, resulting in 3 fatalities (Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationals) and 58 minor injuries among Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, and Afghan nationals.
SOURCE: Emirates News
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INDY Named Top Airport in the US
For the 14th consecutive year, more than 700,000 travelers looked at every airport in North America and said the same thing: Indianapolis is the best.
The Airports Council International just released its 2025 Airport Service Quality Awards, the gold standard of the industry, and IND came out on top once again. The airport won Best Airport in North America for airports serving 5 to 15 million passengers and also took first place for Easiest Airport Journey in North America. Travelers rated it across more than 30 categories including check-in, security, atmosphere, and ease of use. This marks the 15th time overall the airport has earned the honor.
What makes IND different is the terminal itself. The Col. H. Weir Cook Terminal opened in 2008 as the first major airport built from scratch in the U.S. after September 11. The $1.1 billion facility was designed entirely around the passenger experience, with a massive Civic Plaza featuring 35-foot ceilings and a skylight so large the terminal doesn't need primary lighting during the day. Rental cars, parking, and ground transportation connect directly with no shuttle buses needed.
Executive Director Mario Rodriguez credits the airport's 11,000 employees as the differentiator. J.D. Power agrees, naming Indianapolis best in customer satisfaction eight separate times.
SOURCE: Airport World
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Dubai Hotel Updates
Authorities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have issued directives to hotels, extending stays and providing support to international travelers affected by ongoing travel disruptions.
SOURCE: Emirates One News
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2/28/26
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U.S. War
A major military escalation has triggered an unprecedented aviation shutdown across the Middle East today, February 28, 2026. Following coordinated U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran—codenamed "Operation Epic Fury"—Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks targeting strategic locations across the Gulf. In response, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Israel have closed their airspaces, while Dubai International (DXB) has suspended all operations indefinitely, resulting in over 700 flight cancellations.
The situation is further complicated by intense GPS jamming and spoofing across the Persian Gulf, forcing any remaining regional traffic to rely on manual navigation. While Israeli and international reports suggest Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was targeted and may have been killed in a strike on his compound, the Iranian Foreign Ministry has officially denied these claims, stating he remains alive. Major carriers like Emirates and Etihad have grounded their fleets, and international regulators have issued a "High Risk" warning for the entire region at all flight altitudes.
SOURCE: Flight Radar 24
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Qatar Closed
Qatar Airways Group confirms the temporary suspension of its flights to, and from, Doha due to the closure of Qatari airspace caused by U.S. War.
SOURCE: Al Jazeera
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Emirates Closed
Dubai Airports has confirmed that all flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are suspended until further notice. Contact Emirates.com to rebook if needed. Update: Emirates confirms DXB was struck by missile fire. No casualties.
SOURCE: Emirates News
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Southwest under Pressure
Southwest Airlines, under increasing pressure and stung by customer rebukes about its new assigned seating policy, is doing something about it.
Read more at the Dallas Morning News.
SOURCE: Dallas Morning News
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Hawaiian-Alaska Merger blocked?
An effort to break up the Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines merger is heading back to court.
Passengers have filed an appeal seeking a restraining order that would preserve Hawaiian as a standalone airline.
The federal government approved the deal in 2024 as long as Alaska maintained certain routes and improved customer service.
However, plaintiffs say the merger is monopolizing the market, and cite a drop in flight options and a rise in prices.
According to court documents filed this week, Alaska now operates more than 40% of Hawaii’s continental U.S. routes.
Hawaii News Now has reached out to Alaska Airlines and is awaiting a response.
Join us by subscribing for more news!
SOURCE: Honolulu Wire
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Vegan Disrespect
January 2026, a British tourist, Paul Booker, was served a purported vegan breakfast option on a Virgin Atlantic flight from Cancún to London. The meal consisted of two limp zucchini slices and a charred, moldy pepper on a small baguette, which fell short of the airline's usual high standards. The flight attendant appeared embarrassed by the offering. Virgin Atlantic responded, expressing disappointment and emphasizing their commitment to providing quality meals for all passengers, including those with specific dietary requirements. This incident highlights the persistent gap between airlines' promises and the actual meals served to passengers with special dietary needs, including vegan, kosher, halal, and allergy-specific requirements. Booker received a voucher, while the internet was left with a lasting impression.
SOURCE: NBC News
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History: Nixon Flight
On December 26, 1973, President Richard Nixon boarded a United Airlines DC-10 at Dulles International Airport for a flight to Los Angeles. This was a calculated move during the height of the 1973 OPEC oil embargo, intended to show the American public that the White House was serious about energy conservation.
By opting for a commercial flight over the fuel-heavy operation of Air Force One, Nixon sought to lead by example. He traveled with a minimal entourage, including his wife Pat and daughter Tricia, and even took time to walk the aisles and chat with stunned fellow passengers.
While the gesture was a public relations success, the logistical reality was far from "green." For security and essential communication, a backup Air Force plane followed the commercial jet at a distance, and a heavy Secret Service presence was required to manage the flight’s safety.
Though often cited as a unique event, other presidents have used commercial or non-military transport in the past, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1943 Pan Am flight to the Casablanca Conference.
However, Nixon’s trip remains the most prominent example of a modern sitting president using a scheduled airliner as a political tool to signal solidarity during a national crisis.
SOURCE: NARA Archives
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2/26/26
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United-Chase Partnership Wins 2026!
Leading Industry Expert Cautions United: MileagePlus Reforms May Negatively Impact Loyalty—'Without Their Co-Branded Chase Credit Card, You Hold Limited Value.' In all aspects, their co-branded Chase credit card is a worthwhile investment.
SOURCE: United News
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————NTSB Final Report Released
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its final report on a wrong-surface landing incident at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) involving an Embraer ERJ 170-100 LR, highlighting the critical role of cognitive overload and miscommunication in standard visual conditions.
The Incident:
• On September 25, 2024, flight 3936 received clearance for a visual approach to runway 10C at ORD.
• The flight crew inadvertently aligned with and landed on the incorrect surface, runway 10L.
• Fortunately, there were no injuries among the 68 occupants on board, and the aircraft sustained no damage.
The Investigation & Root Cause:
• The NTSB determined the probable cause to be the flight crew's misidentification of the landing runway, driven primarily by 'planned continuation bias', an unconscious cognitive phenomenon where individuals continue with an original plan despite changing conditions.
• This bias, combined with an increasing workload, made it difficult for the crew to recognize stimuli indicating they needed to alter their plan.
• The crew elected to continue the approach despite their navigation radios being tuned to incorrect frequencies, preventing them from confirming their alignment with runway 10C.
The Role of Air Traffic Control:
• Air traffic control (ATC) contributed to the incident by failing to notify the flight crew that they were lined up with the wrong runway.
• Although the ATC controller noticed the alignment error and coordinated with the runway 10L controller to ensure there were no traffic conflicts, they failed to notify the flight crew of the error or issue corrective instructions, contrary to Federal Aviation Administration directives.
More news here at brookeintheairtravel.squarespace.com
SOURCE: FAA Bulletin
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Heading to the UK this year? ETA Needed!
From today, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be mandatory for travelers who currently don’t need a visa. This includes visitors from 85 countries, such as the US, Canada and France.
Without an approved ETA, travel to the UK will not be permitted.
Airlines will begin checking ETAs before departure- strengthening border security and helping deliver a more efficient service for both visitors and the British public.
SOURCE: UK Royal Offices Of Immigration & Customs
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2/25/26
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Spirit Restructures after Chapter 11
Spirit Airlines, America’s most hated Ultra Low-Cost Carrier, has reached a significant milestone in its Chapter 11 restructuring, announcing an agreement in principle with its secured creditors and DIP lenders to exit bankruptcy by summer 2026 as a smaller, regionally-focused airline. This development, reported by reputable sources including CNN, CNBC, and The Wall Street Journal, signals the carrier's commitment to emerging from bankruptcy in late spring or early summer 2026. Notably, Spirit Airlines is not ceasing operations, but rather, it is undergoing a strategic transformation to ensure long-term sustainability. The airline's revamped business model will feature a more focused network, fleet and capacity adjustments, enhanced premium seating options, and a significantly reduced debt load. This marks Spirit's second experience with Chapter 11, but the airline is now on a clear path towards recovery. The strategy is to optimize operations, concentrate on high-demand routes, aggressively reduce costs, and introduce premium upsell options while maintaining its ultra-low-cost carrier model. In the future, the airline may consider route adjustments, aircraft disposals, cabin reconfigurations, and potential post-bankruptcy partnerships or mergers once it regains financial stability.
This new change is consisting of:
- Smaller, & more focused network
- Fleet and capacity adjustments
- More premium seating options
- Much lighter debt load
This is Spirit’s second trip through Chapter 11, but today’s announcement suggests it’s on a defined path out. The strategy is pretty clear: shrink to profitability, focus on high-demand flying, cut costs aggressively, and layer in more premium upsell options without abandoning the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) model that built it.
Route cuts, aircraft dispositions, cabin reconfigurations, and maybe even post-bankruptcy partnership or merger chatter could all be on the table once Spirit is back on stable footing.
SOURCE: Wall Street Journal
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WestJet MAX Ready
The first and second Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft built for WestJet were seen parked in Renton this afternoon. FYI, Boeing is still working through the FAA’s certification process for the MAX 10.
The aircraft has moved into final phases of flight testing under the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration but key technical hurdles remain and there’s no firm certification date yet.
Boeing and several airlines still target certification and first deliveries in 2026, but timelines remain fluid. WestJet now plans first MAX 10 flight in 2027 even if certification comes in late 2026.
Boeing continues to ramp up overall production and deliveries across the 737 family and other program in 2026, but the MAX 10 remains the standout variant still awaiting final regulatory approval.
SOURCE: Seattle Times
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Riyadh Preps for Delivery
Saudi Arabia’s newest carrier Riyadh Air is preparing to take delivery of its first factory built Boeing 787-9 in the coming weeks, marking a major step towards the launch of commercial operations.
Alongside previously announced services to London Heathrow and Dubai, the airline has now confirmed Cairo as one of its inaugural destinations. The Riyadh to Cairo route is expected to be operated by the Boeing 787-9 and is positioned as a key link between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
Chief Executive Officer Tony Douglas stated that the Cairo launch represents the beginning of the airline’s ambition to connect Riyadh with the world while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program. The carrier aims to build a network of more than 100 destinations by 2030, supported by its digital native strategy and the Sfeer (not a typo) loyalty program which includes complimentary onboard WiFi.
With deliveries commencing shortly, Riyadh Air is entering the final phase of preparations as it moves closer to welcoming passengers onboard its new Dreamliners.
SOURCE: Saudi News
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Delta Leads Airline Profit Sharing Again as Industry Payout Gap Widens
Every year, US airlines share a portion of their profits with the people who keep planes flying safely and passengers happy. For 2025, the gap between the best and worst payouts has never been more dramatic. Delta leads the industry once again. On February 13, the airline distributed $1.3 billion to more than 103,000 employees worldwide, equal to roughly 8.9 percent of eligible earnings or more than four weeks of extra pay. Delta says that figure alone is more than every other US airline's profit sharing combined. Since 2015, the Atlanta-based carrier has shared over $11 billion with its workforce. Alaska Air Group came in second, with over 32,000 employees receiving nearly three weeks of additional pay. United Airlines flight attendants received approximately 4.5 percent of their annual wages—a sharp drop from the previous year despite record revenue. Southwest Airlines accrued $97 million, translating to roughly 1.1 percent of eligible pay. At the bottom sits American Airlines, where employees will receive just 0.3 percent of eligible pay. For someone earning $50,000 a year, that comes out to about $150.
SOURCE: Delta News
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AA Runway Incident in PHX
A man was taken into custody after running onto the runway at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport at about 5:15 PM on Monday.
An American Airlines pilot preparing to depart for Tampa first spotted him near taxiway Golf One, close to runways 07L/25R and 07R/25L. The man waved his arms, ran towards aircraft and briefly knelt on the ground, causing concern among pilots and passengers.
Air traffic control instructed aircraft including at least two Southwest Airlines jets, to hold position as police were called. Officers restrained the man on the airfield and he was later taken to hospital after what authorities described as a mental health crisis.
Flights were only briefly disrupted, with the American Airlines service departing a few minutes later. Investigators are now examining how he accessed the secure area, after a suspicious vehicle was reportedly found near the airport perimeter.
SOURCE: Phoenix Sun-Times
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Delta Premium-Heavy Shift
Delta Air Lines has revealed a new premium heavy Airbus A321neo with a unique 164 seat layout, including 44 first class seats stretching from the nose to the wings.
The first class cabin offers 38 inches of pitch, 21 inch wide seats, larger tray tables, privacy headrests and 13 inch seatback screens.
Delta Comfort+ has 54 seats with 34 inches of pitch and the remaining seats are in the main cabin with 31 to 32 inches of pitch.
The aircraft was originally meant to feature lie flat Delta One suites but certification delays mean this layout will be temporary. Up to seven jets could fly in this configuration from 7 June 2026 on routes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle.
Delta says the move ensures extra premium capacity for busy summer travel, with a full rollout of the planned lie flat suites expected by 2027 or 2028!!
SOURCE: Delta Air News
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2/24/26
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Batik Seat Collapse
A rare incident occurred on a Batik Air Malaysia flight when a passenger’s seat collapsed during takeoff. Thankfully, no one was injured.
Initial reports suggest the seat had been placed on the tracks but was not fully latched and locked, though it is unclear how all the locks failed to engage at the same time.
Such events are uncommon but raise serious questions about procedural compliance and safety checks. They underscore the need for regular maintenance and thorough inspections of all safety critical components on aircraft.
Airlines follow a Part-145 Safety Management System to ensure procedures are correctly followed and this system should identify and prevent lapses before flights.
Even minor oversights with equipment like seats can create dangerous situations like this if safety procedures are not fully implemented and monitored.
SOURCE: AviationA2Z
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FrenchBee Long-haul Titan
French bee is taking a bold step by flying its 480 seat Airbus A350-1000 jets from Paris Orly to Newark Liberty International Airport. This makes it the highest capacity passenger service at Newark, as the airport has no scheduled Airbus A380 flights.
In 2026, the airline plans 86 A350-1000 departures on this route, almost double last year, showing strong confidence in peak season demand.
Most flights are scheduled between late April and mid October, with the busiest period from May to August. Services are mainly on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with none on Tuesdays.
This careful planning helps the airline fill more seats during busy travel days and avoid lower load factors.
French bee follows a long haul low cost model by using fuel efficient aircraft packed with more seats. Extra revenue comes from baggage fees, seat selection, meals and premium upgrades, helping keep base fares competitive.
SOURCE: SFO News
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Bullet Holes Found on American Airlines Boeing 737-MAX 8
A serious security investigation is underway after maintenance crews at Miami International Airport (MIA) discovered bullet holes on an American Airlines aircraft following its return from Colombia.
The aircraft involved, a Boeing 737-MAX 8 (N342SX), had just completed Flight AA924 from Medellín to Miami on the morning of February 23. It wasn't until the plane was on the ground and passengers had deplaned that crews noticed puncture marks on the right aileron - a critical component for flight control and balance.
The jet flew from Miami to Medellín (MDE) on Feb 22, stayed overnight, and returned the next morning.
Despite the damage, the aircraft cruised at FL360 across the Caribbean and landed safely without incident.
Authorities are now investigating whether the shots were fired while the plane was on the ground in Medellín or during low-altitude arrival/departure phases.
After discovery, technicians at MIA applied temporary structural patching. The aircraft was then ferried to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) for maintenance. It remains grounded there today as engineers conduct a deep-dive inspection.
SOURCE: American Airlines HQ
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Emirates starts replacing the A380 & 777-300ER
Emirates has scheduled the Airbus A350-900 on six international routes from Dubai International Airport, according to recent timetable filings. The changes affect services to Addis Ababa, Copenhagen, Hanoi, Kolkata, Kuala Lumpur and Tehran Imam Khomeini from late 2026.
Although the updated schedule lists the A350-900, booking systems still show Boeing 777-200LR or 777-300ER aircraft.
From October 2026 to January 2027, the A350-900 will gradually replace Boeing 777 aircraft on these routes.
Addis Ababa and Hanoi will receive 298 seat A350 aircraft from January 2027. Copenhagen will see two daily A350 services from December 2026, and Kolkata, Kuala Lumpur and Tehran will use the 312 seat version.
The Airbus A350-900 is part of Emirates’ wider fleet renewal plan. It offers better fuel efficiency, lower emissions and improved passenger comfort compared to older Boeing 777 jets.
SOURCE: Emirates News
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“Free Palestine” sabotage at LAX
On February 16, 140 checked bags for an EL AL flight from Los Angeles to Tel Aviv were vandalized with 'Free Palestine' stickers, causing serious security concerns at Los Angeles International Airport.
The stickers were noticed onboard, so airport staff unloaded all bags and rescreened them individually to ensure none contained explosives.
The extra security checks delayed the flight by nearly two hours and left many bags behind. Passengers were frustrated, with some missing important items such as a wedding dress while others accepted the delay as a safety precaution.
The bags were eventually sent on the following day’s flight.
Questions arose about how the stickers were placed on the bags, including the possibility of an inside job.
EL AL, Israel’s flag carrier, operates US flights with Boeing aircraft and is regarded as highly secure, using passenger interviews, undercover air marshals, reinforced cockpits and antimissile systems.
The 'Free Palestine' symbol is politically sensitive and controversial in this context, since Oct. 7, 2024.
SOURCE: L.A. Times
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2/23/26
Winter Storm Hernando Grounds Thousands of Flights
Winter Storm Hernando is hitting the northeastern United States with up to 24 inches of snow, wind gusts up to 55 mph, and near-zero visibility. Blizzard warnings are in effect from Delaware to Connecticut, including all five boroughs of New York City .
As of Sunday morning, FlightAware shows over 2,700 flights canceled today alone. Monday looks even worse with more than 3,000 already scrapped. The total is expected to reach nearly 7,000 through Tuesday .
JFK is the hardest hit with 651 cancellations today and more than 60% of all flights wiped from the board. LaGuardia has 523 cancellations, Newark 376, Boston Logan 371, and Reagan National 256 .
JetBlue has canceled roughly 1,200 flights between Sunday and Tuesday. Delta has pulled 303 flights today and 443 for Monday across its hubs at JFK, LaGuardia, and Boston. American Airlines canceled 333 today and 521 for Monday . International carriers like Singapore Airlines and Turkish Airlines have also pulled flights into JFK. Every major airline has issued travel waivers allowing passengers to rebook without change fees .
The storm is expected to peak through Monday morning. Airlines say operations could begin recovering Tuesday, but the ripple effects across schedules will take days to fully clear. If your flight hasn't been canceled yet, check again.
SOURCE: National Weather Service
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KC-390 Expanded into Military Service
Northrop Grumman & Embraer have announced a partnership to offer the KC-390, a Brazilian air-to-air tanker aircraft, to the U.S. Air Force, corroborating a report by our partners at Aviation Week on February 18. In February 2021, Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force dispatched a single KC-390 to the US to undergo testing under extreme cold conditions, the USAF was reportedly impressed. In the first quarter of 2023, the Brazilian Air Force fleet of C-390 had accumulated more than 8,000 flight hours, having participated in aviation fairs and carried out missions on all continents including Antarctica, where C-390 from the Fat Squadron (1st/1st GT) performed two air resupply missions for the Brazilian Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station. At the end of March 2023, the aircraft received the Final Type Certificate, reaching full operational capability (FOC). The Embraer (K)C-390 Millennium is a designated as a mid-sized utility transport aircraft (UTA). Its design permits flexible operations. Both the internal and external configuration of the aircraft can be rapidly interchanged to accommodate different mission roles due the modular design adopted since the aircraft concept for all missions systems. It incorporates modern technology and mission software to aid crews in carrying out operations. The cockpit has head-up displays for the enhanced vision system with four cameras and Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion commercial avionics. The versatile C-390 can provide inflight refueling to other aircraft, as the designated KC-390, through two wing-mounted probe-and-drogue pods from Cobham plc. These can deliver fuel at up to 1,500 L (400 US gal) per minute from a 35 t (77,000 lb) total fuel capacity, between 120 and 300 kn (220 and 560 km/h) and from 2,000 to 32,000 ft (610 to 9,750 m). The aircraft is equipped with fully fly-by-wire flight controls combined with active sidesticks, which reduces the crew's workload over conventional counterparts and permits load factors up to 3g.
SOURCE: Air Force Times
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Lufthansa’s inability to sell every seat on its Boeing 787 Dreamliners comes down to certification delays tied to its troubled Allegris cabin program.
Lufthansa's Boeing 787 Dreamliners have been unable to reach full seating capacity due to certification delays associated with its Allegris cabin program. Although the Airbus A350-900 fleet has successfully implemented Allegris, the business class seats on the Boeing 787-9, manufactured by a different supplier, require separate certification. Despite their similarities, regulatory bodies treat these seats as distinct products, necessitating individual approval for each seat type. This complexity is further compounded by Lufthansa's decision to offer five business class seat variants, each requiring separate certification. As a result, when the first 787s entered service in late 2025, only the four front-row Business Suites were available for sale, leaving the majority of the business class cabin unsold. The airline has since confirmed that 25 of the 28 business class seats will be available for booking from April 15, 2026, although some seats will remain unavailable. Until certification is fully completed, Lufthansa's 787s will continue to operate with unsold premium capacity.
SOURCE: Deutches Welles (DW) News
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“Proudly” Done.
For years, Alaska Airlines carried the words "Proudly All Boeing" on the fuselage of every aircraft in its fleet. It was more than a tagline. It was a point of identity. Alaska was one of the few major U.S. airlines that operated an entirely Boeing fleet, and it wore that distinction on the side of every plane.
That changed when Alaska completed its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines and inherited 24 Airbus A330 widebody jets along with Airbus A321neos. The "All" no longer applied. So Alaska quietly updated the tagline. The new version now reads simply "Proudly Boeing," dropping the one word that no longer fit.
When asked about the change, Alaska's CEO said the airline was just being "honest." The Airbus widebodies are not going anywhere. In fact, they are central to Alaska's plan to turn Seattle into a global gateway, with 12 new long haul international routes planned from Seattle by 2030, including nonstop flights to Seoul, Tokyo, London, Rome, and Reykjavik.
Despite the tagline change, Alaska doubled down on its Boeing commitment in January with the largest aircraft order in the airline's history, more than 100 Boeing planes including 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner jets. The order will grow Alaska's fleet from 413 aircraft today to 475 by 2030 and 550 by 2035.
One word removed. But for aviation enthusiasts who watched Alaska carry that "Proudly All Boeing" badge for years, it marks the end of an era.
SOURCE: Boeing News
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2/22/26
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AA Severe Impacts from Winter Storm
American Airlines has suspended operations at several major Northeast airports as a powerful blizzard paralyzes the region and forces widespread travel shutdowns.
The airline halted most flights at New York JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark as Winter Storm Hernando intensified Sunday night, bringing blizzard conditions across the Tri-State area through Monday evening. Blizzard warnings remain in effect until 6 p.m. Monday, with near-zero visibility, wind gusts up to 60 mph, and snowfall rates reaching three inches per hour.
More than 3,000 flights across the New York region were canceled by early Sunday, with total cancellations expected to climb well beyond that as airports remain effectively shut down. American Airlines said operations would resume only once conditions allow safe departures and arrivals, with Tuesday the earliest realistic window.
The storm is forecast to deliver 12 to 18 inches of snow across much of the region, with coastal and eastern areas facing totals near or above two feet. Officials warned that delays could persist into midweek as runways are cleared and aircraft repositioned.
SOURCE: American Airlines HQ
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United Expands Flights from ORD
#BreakingNews United Will Operate 750 Daily Flights From Chicago—Leaked Slides Show Revenue Falling Nearly 3x Faster Than Elsewhere for Competitors
SOURCE: United News
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Barbara Harmer: From Hairdresser to Concorde Pilot
Barbara Harmer passed away on February 20, 2011, at St. Wilfrid's Hospice in Chichester, England, after a battle with ovarian cancer. She was 57 years old. Just four weeks earlier, she had married her longtime partner Andrew Hewett .
Born in 1953 in Loughton, Essex, Barbara grew up in the small seaside town of Bognor Regis on England's south coast. She left school at 15 to become a hairdresser. That was supposed to be her life. But five years later, she walked away and took a job as an air traffic controller at London Gatwick Airport. Watching planes take off every day made her want to fly. She used her savings and took out a loan to pay for flying lessons. She earned her Private Pilot Licence, became a flight instructor, then spent two years getting her Commercial Pilot Licence. She sent out more than 100 job applications before anyone gave her a chance .
In 1984, she joined British Caledonian. In 1987, that airline merged with British Airways, the operator of Concorde. At the time, BA had over 3,000 pilots. Only 60 were women. None had flown Concorde. Barbara was selected for the six-month conversion course in 1992. On March 25, 1993, she became the first qualified female Concorde pilot. She flew the supersonic service from London Heathrow to New York JFK at 60,000 feet and 1,350 miles per hour for ten years until the aircraft retired in 2003. She was one of only three women in history to ever pilot the Concorde .
From a hair salon in a small English seaside town to Mach 2 over the Atlantic. Barbara Harmer proved that where you start has nothing to do with where you end up.
SOURCE: History.com
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More News to come as it happens!
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