Volaris release its second quarter figures

Volaris, the ultra-low-cost airline serving Mexico, the United States and Central America, today announced its financial results for the second quarter 2018.

Newcastle - Auckland and Hobart - Perth more new routes for Virgin Australia

A new Virgin Australia service between Newcastle and Auckland will be launched on 22nd November the airline has confirmed.  The route will be served by a Boeing 737-800 and will be operated on Tuesday's, Thursday's and Sunday's. 

The flight VA199 will depart Newcastle at 1930 arriving in Auckland, New Zealand at 0025,  VA198 Departs Auckland at 1710 to arrive Newcastle at 1845.  

The city pair hasn't been served directly for 16 years and the route launch announcement was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack MP.  He said, Newcastle Airport is a major gateway into New South Wales and now plays an important role in global connectivity by facilitating travel and tourism opportunities between Australia and New Zealand.

The Finnair Study - on reducing CO2

Finnair study: Finns want to reduce the CO2 impact of flying, prefer direct measures such as biofuels and carbon captures

Finnair conducted a consumer research study during summer 2018 to find out what Finns think of the different ways to reduce or compensate emissions resulting from aviation. According to the study’s results, the majority of Finns are ready to pay to reduce the emissions caused by air travel, but want the proceeds from possible additional charges to go directly to environmental work. Responsible travel is thus increasingly important for Finnish travellers.

BlugaXL's first flight.

The new massive transport aircraft from Airbus has taken to the skies for the first time last week and was a massive success.

The BelugaXL's first flight lasted four hours and eleven minutes and was under the control Captain Christophe Cail, Co-Pilot Bernardo Saez-Benito Hernandez and Test-Flight Engineer Jean Michel Pin. Meanwhile, monitoring the aircraft systems and performance in real-time at the flight-test engineers (FTE) station were Laurent Lapierre and Philippe Foucault.

Following the first flight, the BelugaXL will undergo some 600 hours of flight test over 10 months to achieve Type Certification and entry into service later in 2019.

Caught on video the crash of a C47 aircraft in Texas

The thirteen passengers have a lucky escape on Saturday morning when the historic C-47 twin-engined aircraft they were on crashed on take off.

The World War II era C-47 Dakota was called the "Bluebonnet Belle" and crashed at the Burnet Municipal Airport in Texas as it was trying to take off and just about made it into the air before lurching to the side where one wing struck the ground. 

According to local media, all 13 passengers on-board at the time were able to vacate the aircraft, however, eight people were injured, seven with minor injuries and one person needed to be airlifted to hospital after suffering significant burns.  

The aircraft caught fire after the crash which also set alight to some of the grass, which was extinguished by the airport's fire service. According to media reports, the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the cause of the crash along with the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Video below

Pilot strike action causes Royal Air Maroc to cancel dozens of flights

Industrial action by disgruntled pilots at the Moroccan national airline Royal Air Maroc causes the airline to cancel over a dozen flights over the last two days.

The airline cancelled ten flights on Friday, four on Saturday, and so far four have been axed on Sunday with more short notice disruption to schedules likely, as the industrial relations worsen. The airline and its pilots have been negotiating for months over a whole raft of issues, but things are not going well. A "heavy social climate" exists in the airline according to the pilots association, adding that it was "exacerbated by 20 months of sterile social dialogue."

The airline says 'Social Tensions' are causing the disruption and that strike action "will have a devastating effect" on the carrier and the association had an "absence of willingness to see the company's development."

Could the A320neo become a military surveillance aircraft?

Airbus is considering its best-selling jetliner for military use.

Having made its mark in the commercial airline sector, the A320neo is now being considered by Airbus for new applications: as a highly-capable and cost-effective platform for ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) duties and as a military transport.

The variant – designated A320M3A – would be designed to fulfil a range of ISR roles, particularly maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare. It also can be outfitted with modular roll-on/roll-off payloads for airlift missions ranging from carrying passengers, troops and VIPs to medical evacuation (medevac) and transporting cargo.

Airbus’ consideration of the A320M3A is in response to market demand, spurred by the growing use of more capable ISR systems – which require physically larger host platforms with increased electrical power and more efficient cooling systems than previously were the case for C4ISR aircraft.  

Did you see the story of the woman planning to sue American Airlines after not being allowed to fly on a free ticket.

One mile at a time site is sharing an incredible rant from a woman who was denied boarding on an American Airlines flight due to her tatty, scruffy jeans and then has a rant on Facebook live for over half an hour about it.  It is quite some watch, ranting and swearing all the time, leaving her crying child who is clearly distressed and embarrassed by her mother's attitude. She's travelling on a free ticket by the way, which makes her outburst and rudeness even more surprising.  See for yourself the story on One Mile at a Time. It is a disgraceful way to behave when travelling on a free or reduced ticket, to be honest, it's not a nice way to behave even if you're on a full fare ticket. In the video rant, she says several times that her daughter is starving and crying, yet she doesn't do anything to comfort her child, nor take her to get some food, despite being only a few metres away from restaurants in the terminal, which some may say is child neglect. Yet, in another video, she's seen and proudly boasts about stealing sodas and snacks! 

HiFly's colourful entry into A380 operations

This is perhaps a bright new era for the double-decker Airbus A380 jet aircraft as the first 'second hand' example starts its operational life with a new operator.

Hi Fly's first A380 formerly flew with Singapore Airlines  Photo Hi Fly

Hi fly, is the European wide-body wet lease specialists, flying an all-Airbus fleet and are now the new operators of an Airbus A380 that previously flew with Singapore Airlines for 10 years.  It is the first of the type to enter 'second hand' service and makes the start of a new era for Airbus and the A380 programme. 

The whole Airbus A380 programme is relatively young, the first of the type entered into in October 2007, so when MSN006 finished its lease with Singapore Airlines, the leasing company looked toward Airbus for support in finding a new operator.  “From the beginning, we knew it would be good for us to help build a market for second-hand aircraft,” said Catherine Bras, Airbus’ A380 business development platform leader. “We think this is a great opportunity to show what the aircraft can do. There may be some airlines that were hesitant to commit long-term who can now try out an A380 and see what it can do for them. This could help create new routes and expand the market base.”

Sunwing adding new winter flights

Sunwing Airlines has recently announced a number of new services in recent days.

From December 18, 2018, until April 16, 2019, the airline will run a service from Montreal to Mazatlan, Mexico, The weekly flight will take place on Tuesdays on a Boeing 737.  Leaving at 0730 the flight will arrive at 1145 and on the return, it will depart Mazatlan at 1240 landing back into Montreal at 1940.

Mazatlan is often called the Pearl of the Pacific, popular with tourists for its serene lagoons and stretches of sandy beach, with the Golden Zone home to world-class resorts.

The holiday airline is also starting a service from Quebec City this coming winter to Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, running from Monday 17th  December to 15th April 2019.  “With the announcement of Puerto Vallarta as a new destination, Sunwing is further diversifying its flight offering from Quebec City's Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) with an exciting option for passengers in the Greater Québec City area." Said, Mathieu Claise, Director, Government and Public Affairs of YQB.

More French flights for Emirates

The Dubai based Emirates has announced that it will introduce two additional flights to Lyon and one to Paris per week, to complement the carriers existing schedule.  

The increase in frequency from five to seven between Dubai and Lyon will make the route a daily service, while the extra flight to Paris takes the number of flights to the French capital to 21 a week.  

The Lyon flights will start on 2 August 2018, and will operate on a Tuesday and Thursday at the same time as the current flights, which depart Dubai as EK081 at 1435hrs and arrive in Lyon at 1930hrs. The return flight, EK082, leaves Lyon at 2155hrs and arrives in Dubai at 0615hrs the next day. Both flights will be operated by an Emirates Boeing 777-300ER in a three-class cabin configuration, with eight private suites in First Class, 42 lie-flat seats in Business Class and 304 spacious seats in Economy Class.

The additional Paris flight will start on 7th August 2018, and will operate as the third daily every Tuesday morning. Flight EK071 will depart Dubai at 0405hrs and arrive in Paris at 0925hrs, while the return flight leaves Paris at 1125hrs and arrives back in Dubai at 2000hrs.

As with Emirates other flights between Dubai and Paris, the airline’s flagship A380 will be used on the route. It will also have three-class cabin configuration, with 14 privates suites in First Class, 76 lie flat seats in Business Class and 429 seats in Economy Class.

Hainan Airlines signs deal with BBC for inflight content.

Hainan Airlines and BBC Global News today signed a major new deal at a special signing ceremony at the BBC's headquarters in London to celebrate their partnership.

Yufei Wang, Vice President, Branding, Hainan Airlines and Jim Egan, CEO, BBC Global News, spoke about the significance of this strategic commercial partnership which will see BBC StoryWorks, the award-winning content marketing division of BBC Global News, produce digital and video content for Hainan Airlines to mark the launch of its new route and the beauty of its destinations. 

Jim Egan said: "We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with such a prestigious Chinese brand as Hainan Airlines. We look forward to working closely with them, developing and delivering a range of creative content that will bring their brand and services to life for our global audience."

Dutch aviation tax public consultation starts

Flying to or via Amsterdam could become more expensive if the Netherland's government proposal to introduce an aviation tax on passengers, comes to fruition.  A public consultation has been launched according to local media.  

If the government goes ahead with the proposal, from 2021 passengers would have to fork out an additional €3.80 / $4.40 / £3.40  per passenger on European routes and €22.00 / $25.75 / £19.67 per person for those on intercontinental flights.  The government says the new tax would make an average additional €200 million a year, which could be used for various things including the environment. 

Whilst the government is keen for the levy to be introduced, opposition to it is strong from many from the aviation industry.  The Royal Schiphol Group - the company that runs the main airports of Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Eindhoven along with the national carrier, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines insist the tax would have a detrimental effect on air traffic as well as the economy in general. The International Air Transport Association, European Regional Airlines Association and Airlines for Europe have all publically expressed opposition to the tax being introduced. 

easyJet's A321neo in service schedule

easyJet released its schedule for operations for its new Airbus A321neo aircraft this week for scheduled services between 1st August to 27 October 2018.

Here's the provisional schedule for the A321neo operations services, however, expect changes, some at short notice.

London Gatwick – Agadir  7th Aug – 11th Sep  1 x week
London Gatwick – Alicante  from  1st Aug  3 x week
London Gatwick – Athens  from 3rd Aug 1 x week (2 x week from 3rd Sept)
London Gatwick – Faro  6th Aug  – 27th Aug  1 x week
London Gatwick – Fuerteventura  6th Aug – 27th Aug 1 x week
London Gatwick – Gran Canaria  from 1st Oct  1 x week
London Gatwick – Kefallinia  from 1st Aug    1 x week (possible increase to 3 x week)
London Gatwick – Lisbon  from 5th Aug  1 x week
London Gatwick – Malaga  2nd Aug  – 27th Oct 3 x week  (1 x week from 26 Sep)
London Gatwick – Malta  from 3rd Oct 1 x week
London Gatwick – Tenerife South  from 2nd Oct  1 x week
London Gatwick – Vienna  from 3 Sep 2 x week
London Gatwick – Zakynthos  5th Aug  – 16th Sep 1 x week

easyJet has configured the new Airbus A321neo's with 235 seats in a single class cabin and recently showed off the new arrival at the Farnborough International Airshow.  

Norwegian to increase number of transatlantic flights from Ireland by over 35% next summer

One of the worlds fastest growing and popular airlines, Norwegian has today announced its new expanded 2019 summer schedule with 37% more weekly departures to the USA and Canada, from Ireland. Consumers can now book the airline’s lowest fares for travel to the US East Coast and Ontario next summer with fares available from €129 one way at www.norwegian.com/ie

Voted World’s Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline 2018 by Skytrax, Norwegian currently operates flights from Dublin, Shannon and Cork airports to New York Stewart International Airport and Providence TF-Green Airport on the US East Coast. Flights are operated using brand new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft that feature up to 189 leather seats, which are currently being upgraded to a new slimline seat that will offer passengers enhanced comfort and greater space.

Norwegian’s increased 2019 summer schedule from Ireland has 40 weekly transatlantic departures and is now available to book for travel from 31 March 2019, as follows:

Delta Air Lines and WestJet form transborder joint venture -

Delta Air Lines and WestJet have signed a definitive agreement to create a comprehensive transborder joint venture arrangement that will offer customers an extensive route network within the U.S. and Canada.

“Delta’s future is global and together with WestJet, we can augment the two airlines’ capabilities and bring together our strengths in this important transborder market,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s CEO. “Combined, we will be able to offer more destinations to customers with an integrated network, superior airline products, improved airport connections and significantly enhanced frequent flyer benefits. The JV will provide an unmatched passenger experience for customers travelling between the U.S. and Canada.”

U.S./Canada joint venture to offer more choices for travel between the U.S. and Canada

“WestJet continues its drive toward becoming a global airline, and the signing of this agreement marks a major milestone in that journey,” said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. “Working together with Delta, the premier U.S. carrier, we are looking forward to providing enhanced offerings and more choice for guests. The joint venture will allow us to maximize our existing partnership with Delta to benefit customers by bringing greater competition to the trans-border market.”

Lufthansa launches more new routes

Lufthansa may be engaged in a war of words with Ryanair over its dealings with Laudamotion, that hasn't stopped it launch more expansive expansion plans.

Lufthansa is expanding its offers from Frankfurt and Munich to include six new tourist destinations. 

Lufthansa now flies from Frankfurt and Munich to Eilat (Ovda), the attractive holiday resort on the Red Sea in the south of Israel. The carrier will operate the route four times a week (Thursdays and Sundays from Frankfurt and Tuesdays and Saturdays from Munich). 

British Airways to launch a service from Gatwick to Cologne

We may be basking in temperatures of around 30 celsius here in the UK and in the middle of one of our warmest summers for as long as many can remember, but summer isn't in the minds of British Airways managers, who are firmly thinking of winter and Christmas.

The UK's national airline British Airways has announced it will launch a new route to the beautiful German city of Cologne, in time for the wondrous Christmas markets that take place in the city every year.

The new route to Cologne will operate four times a week from London Gatwick Airport and will start on 16th November this year. It is currently scheduled for Mondays, Thursdays. Fridays and Sundays, making a long weekend away easy to arrange. “Cologne adds another exciting destination to our Gatwick network and is perfect for a winter break. Cologne is becoming increasingly popular due to being a cultural hub and is a living textbook on art, history and architecture.” said, Adam Carson, British Airways’ Managing Director of Gatwick

Cologne is Germany’s fourth largest city and offers something for everyone, from its famous cathedral with its dominating spires, the beautiful architecture. art and rich history to the many and varied festivals, markets and carnivals.  One of those carnivals is a six-day street festival when the city celebrates in colourful costumes, dancing, parades and parties that welcome more a million visitors for the largest carnival in Europe. Plus of course, in the run-up to Christmas, the city has lovely festive markets that are a true delight to experience. 

The next 20 years will see the need for 10,550 -150 seat aircraft

Boeing's Brazilian Embraer says there will be the need for 10,550 new 150 seat aircraft across the world during the next 20 years.

Embraer says in-service fleet is set to increase to 16,000 aircraft, up from the 9,000 aircraft currently in operation. Apparently, market growth will drive 65% of this demand, while the remaining 35% will replace ageing aircraft.

Alaska Airlines June results

Alaska Air reported its June and year-to-date operational results earlier this week showing the consolidated basis for its mainline operations and subsidiary operations of Alaska, Horizon Air and third-party regional carriers SkyWest Airlines and Peninsula Airlines.

On January 11, 2018, Alaska and Virgin America consolidated their operations onto a Single Operating Certificate (SOC). Results for Alaska and Virgin America have been combined into a single mainline operation.

Belavia-Belarusian Airlines to lease four Boeing 737-8 MAX Aircraft

Air Lease Corporation recently announced long-term lease agreements with Belavia-Belarusian Airlines for four new CFM LEAP-1B25-powered Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2019 and 2020. The first aircraft will in May 2019.

“ALC is pleased to announce this placement with Belavia at Farnborough International Airshow today,” said Steven F. Udvar-Házy, Executive Chairman of Air Lease Corporation. “The advanced technologies in the MAX 8 aircraft will provide a new level of efficiency and comfort to Belavia’s customers, and we look forward to continuing our successful relationship with the airline as it optimizes its fleet and expands its network.”

Finnair Launches Viasat's In-Flight Internet Service on European Flights

The award-winning Finnair is launching a new high-speed internet service on its narrow-body Airbus fleet on European flights. 

From today onwards, Finnair customers will be able to enjoy the industry's fastest in-flight connection speeds—even gate-to-gate—enabling each customer to use the internet as they do on the ground, from web surfing and online shopping to listening to music and even watching movies and TV shows from popular video streaming services.

Finnair partnered with global communications company, Viasat Inc. to deliver the high-speed in-flight internet service, which has already been installed on 6 of Finnair's narrow-body Airbus aircraft. By the end of this summer, about 20 aircraft are expected to be installed with internet connectivity, with the entire narrow-body Airbus fleet expected to be internet connected by summer 2019.

British Airways to lease three more 777-300ER's

777-300 landing at Heathrow Picture by Nick Morrish/British Airways

Boeing and British Airways have announced today a commitment for three 777-300ER (Extended Range) aeroplanes. British Airways will take the 777s on an operating lease via a leasing company.

"We are delighted that British Airways, one of the world's leading airlines, has again chosen the Boeing 777 for its long-haul fleet," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. "This agreement is a testament to the enduring value of the 777, its superior range, outstanding efficiency and popularity among passengers." These three aircraft will increase capacity and flexibility across the British Airways network which includes more than 200 destinations in 75 countries across the globe.

EasyJet announce new routes....

The low-cost European airline easyJet is doing well,  just a few days ago it reported that revenue for the third quarter rose 14% to £1.6bn, with revenues from baggage and seat allocation up more than a fifth to £328m.

The airline flew 24.4 million passengers - 9.3% more than the same period last year in the three months to 30 June. It has also announced a series of new routes from this autumn, the majority from the UK, Sophie Dekkers, UK Country Director, said:

“easyJet has come such a long way since our first ever route from London Luton to Glasgow in 1996 and we are so excited to have reached the 1000 routes milestone today. The launch of these 16 new routes across the UK provides our passengers with even more amazing destinations across Europe for both holidays and business travel. We are really looking forward to continuing our sustainable growth and expansion, to provide travellers across Europe with low fares and friendly customer service.”

Read on for the new services and when they start -

Uganda National Airlines orders 4 CRJ900's

Uganda National Airlines Company has ordered four new CRJ900 regional jet from Bombardier Commercial Aircraft its been confirmed today. 

“We congratulate the Government of Uganda for the revival of its national flag carrier, and are thrilled that the new airline has selected Bombardier and the CRJ900 regional jets for its upcoming debut,” said Jean-Paul Boutibou, Vice President, Sales, Middle-East and Africa, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Recognized for its superior economics and efficiency, the CRJ Series aircraft have enabled airlines worldwide to serve communities with better connectivity, and we look forward to supporting the development of Uganda’s regional air travel with these CRJ900 regional jets.”

Uganda Airlines will operate the CRJ900 in dual-class configuration with 76 seats, including 12 first class seats.

“We are delighted to have ordered the world’s leading regional jet, and we look forward to providing the most modern passenger experience in regional aviation to the people of Uganda and across Africa,” said Ephraim Bagenda, CEO, Uganda National Airlines. “As we were establishing Entebbe as a strong hub in East Africa and building more connectivity in Africa, we thoroughly reviewed our needs. With its proven track record in Africa and other regions of the world, we are confident that the CRJ900 aircraft will help us succeed.”

Seattle's calling for Cathay Pacific Seattle's call

Seattle set to become the 8th US destination for Cathay Pacific  Image Seattle Port Authority 

Direct from Hong Kong - Cathay Pacific has announced it will start a new nonstop service to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on 1st April 2019,. It will be the only airline offering a direct link between Hong Kong and the fastest-growing city on the West Coast.

The service will operate four times each week and will become Cathay's eighth passenger gateway in the United States, and its 10th in North America. The airline already flies to Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York (JFK), New York (Newark), San Francisco, Toronto and Vancouver. Plus in September this year, a service to Washington, DC will be started. 

Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Officer Rupert Hogg said the Seattle route, which will be operated by the airline's state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft, underscores the airline's expansion strategy to connect new destinations not otherwise served from Hong Kong–and to link its home, one of the most innovative cities in Asia, with tech hubs the world over.

Fastjet Zimbabwe launch Bulawayo route

African airline Fastjet Zimbabwe has confirmed it will be launching a new domestic route in Zimbabwe later this week between Harare and Bulawayo.

The route is being operated on an Embraer ERJ145 jet and starts on 20th July 2018. The airline will operate a daily rotation between the two cities, with a flight time of 50 minutes from Harare to Bulawayo while the return is scheduled to take 55 minutes. 

“Fastjet has been pursuing this route designation for several years,” says fastjet chief executive Nico Bezuidenhout. “We are delighted to see that positive changes in the Zimbabwean environment made this development possible, enabling low-fare connectivity between more domestic destinations.” Fastjet will celebrate its third year of Zimbabwean operations in October and “has invested substantially in the market with positive outcomes. While we are launching with a single frequency at present, fastjet intends to further grow the route following further consultation with stakeholders and ultimately to introduce additional aircraft to facilitate growth,” he adds.

Two undisclosed airlines agree to buy 787-9 Dreamliners according to Boeing......

Boeing says two undisclosed airlines have reached agreements to buy a total of 15 787-9 Dreamliners valued at $4.2 billion per current list prices, on Thursday at the 2018 Farnborough International Airshow.

One of the airlines would become a new 787 customer. The second airline is adding more 787s to their Dreamliner fleet.  Both  'commitments' will be reflected on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website once when and if they are finalized.

"This is the Dreamliner effect. New airline customers are drawn to the potential for greater fuel efficiency and range and super passenger amenities, while existing customers have experienced all of these advantages first hand and want to grow their fleet with more 787 Dreamliners," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for The Boeing Company. "The strong market preference for the 787 is securing its status as the fastest-selling widebody aeroplane in history."

Hawaiian Airlines finalised its order yesterday for 10 787-9 Dreamliners, included purchase rights for 10 additional 787s although the deal was effectively completed back in March after a vast discount had been applied by Boeing to woe the airline away from Airbus aircraft. 

"The Dreamliner's operational performance and passenger-friendly cabin makes it an ideal aircraft to serve as our flagship aircraft of the future," said Peter Ingram, president and chief executive officer of Hawaiian Airlines, following a script written for him by Boeing. 

Royal Air Maroc scheduling 787 this winter

The national airline of Morocco, Royal Air Maroc has released more details of its Boeing 787  Dreamliner operations during winter 2018.

The airline will adjust its schedule for the Casablanca to Rio de Janeiro Galeao route, for a 5 week period, 24th December 2018 to 29th January 2019 the airline will add a Boeing 787-8 to the schedule.  The Dreamliner flight will depart Casablanca at 1520 arriving Rio at 2240 on Tuesday's, Thursday's and Saturday's.  The return is scheduled to depart at 0010 and land back at Casablanca at 1050 local time on Wednesday's, Friday's and Sunday's.

The airline is also planning to put the Boeing 787-9's and -8's Dreamliner's on the following routes when they enter service in December this year.

Casablanca – Algiers   from 22nd December 3 x a week*
Casablanca – Montreal  from 22nd December 3 x a week*

* will be reduced to twice a week from 7th February 2019 

Casablanca – JFK New York  from 21st December  4 x a week 

Casablanca – Sao Paulo from 3rd February 1 x week. 

The Royal Air Maroc will configure the Boeing 787-9 with 18 seats in business class and 256 in the main economy cabin.

Pilot error to blame for Cuba crash says airline, but officials are still working

The Mexican airline involved in one of the most deadly air crashes in Cuban history has announced that pilot error was to blame for an air crash that killed 112 people in May. However,  the Cuban authorities have dismissed the findings as premature 

The commission investigating the incident issued a statement which indicated that it has not completed its analysis of “many factors” which could have contributed to the accident on the 18th May. “For that reason, any assertion about the possible causes that caused the fatal accident is premature.” the commission asserts.

Damojh Airlines the Mexican airline at the centre of the accident had said in a statement Monday that the pilots of the Boeing 737 took off too steeply, a much higher angle than is usual before the aircraft crashed near the runway of the international airport in Havana.

Damojh Aerolineas, which also operates under the name Global Air, says it had recreated the flight with the black boxes - the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder and a simulator, which demonstrated the pilots were at fault. 

Mexico’s civil aviation authority confirmed it was still investigating the crash with its own analysis and has not yet issued a finding.  Damojh is desperate to regain its air operators licence in Mexico so it can resume flying operations. 

AirAsia set to confirm Airbus order today

Expect a big order for Airbus today from Malaysia’s AirAsia as the airline goes for the A330neo over rivals Boeing's offerings. 

Whilst there has been lots of talk and the press offices of both Airbus and Boeing have been really busy over the last couple of days, promoting so many 'commitments' and ''letters of intent' real confirmed and firm orders have been few and far between.  

Two sources advise that the boss and founder of AirAsia / AirAsiaX Tony Fernandes will make the announcement with Airbus later today.  It is understood the order will be for 66 aircraft, plus an option for a further 34 aircraft.

Other sources told news agency Reuters that the undisclosed customer for 10 A320neo's reported by Airbus earlier is, in fact, SaudiGulf, however, this has yet to be confirmed. 

Air Canada boss wins top award at the 2018 Airline Strategy Awards

Air Canada President and Chief Executive Officer Calin Rovinescu has won the Executive Leadership Award at the 2018 Airline Strategy Awards. The award, for the airline president/chief executive who has demonstrated outstanding strategic thinking and leadership, was presented in London. The Airline Strategy Awards are run by established air transport industry news and analysis provider, Flight Airline Business.

Unnamed customers commit to Boeing 737 MAX

Boeing has announced that it and four unnamed customers have signed 'commitments' for a total of 93 737 MAX aeroplanes, at the 2018 Farnborough International Airshow on Wednesday. 

The Boeing media room says this latest order is "including a carrier that has committed to 40 of the high-capacity version of the MAX 8." The company values the deal at nearly $11 billion at current list prices none of these is a confirmed or firm order and therefore the agreements will only be reflected on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website when and IF they have been finalised. 

The four unidentified customers hail from the airline and aeroplane leasing industries, Boeing says, which might not be very surprising as its highly unlikely a food manufacturer would say they are interested in buying a fleet of planes.  Although anyone can sign a letter of commitment to buy a Boeing bird, it doesn't mean you'll actually go through with the purchase. 

The Top Ten Airlines In The World - 2018

Skytrax held its 2018 World Airline Awards on Tuesday 17th July at The Langham Hotel, London and has published the results of a 10 month long survey period in which travellers from around the world rated airlines on a number of key areas. There were some surprises in the complete listings, for example British Airways didn't even make the top thirty and Ryanair being rated above United.

Here are the top ten 'World's Best Airlines' 

1.  Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines has long been one of the most respected travel brands around the world, therefore it is perhaps no surprise that it makes it to the top of the list in this years Skytrax awards. Singapore Airlines seems to be pleasing passengers with its impressive service, flying one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world to destinations spanning a network spread over six continents. Of course, the Singapore Girl is an internationally-recognisable icon providing the high standards of care and service that customers have come to expect of Singapore Airlines.

2.  Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has rapidly grown to serve more than 140 destinations worldwide, offering levels of service excellence that helped the award-winning carrier to become the best in the world. Qatar Airways network spans business and leisure destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, North America and South America. Qatar Airways is a member of oneworld global airline alliance. Despite recent difficulties with its near neighbours and sexist remarks from its CEO, the airline is still rated highly on all levels by its passengers.

read on for the next 8.

VietJet interested in 100 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft

The Vietnamese low-cost carrier VietJet has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Boeing on Wednesday at the 2018 Farnborough International Airshow for an additional 100 737 MAX aircraft.

The deal is split between 80 737 MAX 10s and 20 737 MAX 8s and has a list price of  $12.7 billion at current list prices. If this deal is completed, VietJet would become the largest MAX 10 operator in Asia and would use the MAX 10 aircraft to satisfy the surging demand on high-dense domestic routes, as well as on popular destinations throughout Asia.

"We are excited to introduce Boeing's newest 737 MAX 10 into our rapidly growing fleet. These new airplanes will fit perfectly into our growth strategy, providing the efficiency and range for VietJet to expand its route network and offer more international destinations for our customers and expand alliances across Asia Pacific, the fastest growing aviation market in the world," said Madam Nguyễn Thị Phương Thảo, President and CEO of VietJet.

WestJet recognized as North America's Best Low-Cost Airline by Skytrax

More news from the Skytrax World Airline Awards held in London this week is that despite huge competition, WestJet was named as North America's Best Low-Cost Airline. 

"We're proud to be named the Best Low-Cost Airline in North America as voted on by 20 million global travellers," said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. "More than 13,000 WestJetters and their dedication and commitment to providing exceptional service are the true winners of this award. We look forward to providing our guests with more products, services and destinations, along with our caring guest experience as we transition to a global airline."

Globally, WestJet also ranked sixth in the Best Low-Cost Airlines category for 2018.  WestJet operates more than 700 flights each day to 106 cities in 22 countries and is growing both in North America and into Europe. 

Top accolade for Air Transat

One of Canada's leading airlines, Air Transat, is celebrating this week after being named as the World's Best Leisure Airline during the Skytrax World Airline Awards in London. 

Jean-François Lemay, President-General Manager of Air Transat, was on hand in London to accept the award at the official ceremony. "Being singled out as the World's Best Leisure Airline is an honour we're extremely proud of, since it was awarded by our passengers," says Jean-François Lemay. "This honour extends to all of our employees, whose commitment, quality service and hard work ensure our passengers a pleasant, memorable experience, so their vacation truly begins the moment they set foot on board. Air Transat takes great pride in having been ranked among the best leisure airlines for seven years running, and to have topped the list for the second time in its history. Once again, I am deeply grateful to our passengers for their trust."

Every year, some 20 million travellers from around the world pick the winners by taking part in the largest airline passenger satisfaction survey, a global benchmark of airline excellence. The awards began in 1999 when Skytrax launched its first global airline passenger satisfaction survey. These days the survey covers 320 airlines in 105 countries. The survey runs for 10-months where airlines are marked in over 50 areas, including check-in, boarding, quality of service, seat comfort and many others.  

Boeing sell 5 747-8 Freighters to the Russians -

A big freighter deal between Boeing and Russian cargo specialists Volga-Dnepr Group and CargoLogicHolding was signed at the 2018 Farnborough International Airshow on the intention to buy 29 Boeing 777 Freighters and confirmed an order for five Boeing 747-8 Freighters along with an agreement to work together on future freighter projects.

New meal options from Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines passengers in the main cabin will now have a much better meal choice as the airline has started to roll out a new seasonally-inspired food and beverage menu that has been based on research and feedback from guests, the airline says the menu includes local ingredients paired with West Coast staples such as artichokes, tomatoes, asparagus, berries, avocados, artisan breads and cage-free eggs.  Passengers in the main cabin will also be able to sample a rotating selection of craft beers and an an elevated wine program.  

Juneyao Airlines show livery ready for Dreamliner delivery

The Chinese carrier Juneyao Air is getting in early with a new livery designed for its first Boeing Dreamliner aircraft that it is scheduled to arrive in September.

The first Boeing 787 Juneyao receives will feature the "Chinese Peony" livery.

Etihad's Buy on Board menu increased

Etihad Airways recently launched a range of snack items to buy onboard its long haul and ultra long haul to go along with its already fulfilling complimentary in-flight service.

Now the carrier has introduced some more items to that new menu of Buy on Board products, some of the new items include locally sourced brands Munchbox and Freakin’ Healthy, who promise to deliver healthier food options using natural ingredients, no added sugar and are GMO free. Now also available on board are Hunter’s Gourmet Potato and Vegetable Crisps which are all hand cut with no artificial colours, trans fat or preservatives, and are also GMO free.

“Etihad Airways is always looking at new ways to increase our offering to tailor the guest experience by providing premium and unique products. Launched in December 2017, our additional buy on board items have proven to be a popular treat that make travelling with us even more special.” said, Linda Celestino, Vice President Guest Experience and Delivery. 

Other goodies to enjoy whilst watching one of the many movies or shows on the in-flight entertainment system are gourmet salted caramel popcorn, an artisan hot chocolate or choose from a range of gluten, wheat and dairy free Nakd snack bars.

Skytrax Best Airline in Eastern Europe and Best Premium Economy Onboard Catering awards went to...........

The Russian airline Aeroflot has won two categories at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2018 in London. In addition to being named Best Airline in Eastern Europe, Aeroflot took the award for Best Premium Economy Onboard Catering of any airline worldwide.

Aeroflot was named Best Airline in Eastern Europe for the sixth straight year and seventh time overall. The award for Best Premium Economy Onboard Catering represents a breakthrough for the Russian flag carrier. Previously the award had belonged to Singapore Airlines, recognized by many ratings as the finest in the world.

The World Airline Awards ceremony, which took place today in the Grand Ballroom of The Langham hotel in London on Tuesday, brought together senior executives of leading airlines from around the world.

More commitments for the Airbus A220-300

There seems to be strong demand for the aircraft that was formally known as the Bombardier CSeries CS300, as Airbus has received commitments for 60 of the type. 

A new US start-up airline has issued commitments for 60 Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled for the start of 2021 in a deal that was announced at this years Farnborough International Airshow on Tuesday.

This new airline is backed up by a group of experienced investors led by David Neeleman, founder of JetBlue, investor in TAP in Portugal and controlling shareholder in Azul airlines in Brazil.  “After years of U.S. airline consolidation, the conditions are improving for a new generation of U.S. airline to emerge, focused on passenger service and satisfaction,” said David Neeleman, majority investor in the new venture. “The A220 will enable us to serve thinner routes in comfort without compromising cost, especially on longer-range missions. With deliveries starting in 2021, we will have ample time to assemble a world-class management team and another winning business model.”

20 737 MAX8's for Aviation Capital Group

The Aviation Capital Group (ACG) have ordered 20 737 MAX 8 aircraft at the 2018 Farnborough International Airshow, according to Boeing, who valued the order at $2.34 billion. 

"The 737 MAX is core to our strategic growth plans, as the airplane continues to command strong interest in the marketplace," said Khanh T. Tran, CEO of ACG. "This order expands our diverse portfolio, which includes three 737 MAX variants, providing us with more flexibility and some of the most advanced single-aisle jets to serve our customers."

However, despite the announcement, the order hasn't actually been completeled and finalised yet, it will only been confirmed once all contingencies have been met.

"We are pleased to extend our partnership with ACG as they continue to expand their 737 MAX portfolio," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, The Boeing Company. "This order reflects continued market demand for the best single-aisle airplane in its class. The 737 MAX will deliver exceptional performance and market-leading economics to ACG's world-class customers for many years to come."