ATC Update

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will reportedly announce a plan next week outlining how it plans to modernize the nation’s air traffic control system, addressing infrastructure, safety, and efficiency challenges.

Blade Update:

Total revenue increased 14.5% to $54.4 million in the current quarter versus $47.5 million in the prior year period, driven primarily by growth in both our Passenger and Medical segments. Excluding Canada, which we exited in August 2024, revenue increased 22.1%, versus the prior year period.

https://aerocrewnews.com/z2vr

With this latest aircraft order, AEGEAN’s total direct orderbook with Airbus stands at 60 A320neo Family with 37 aircraft already delivered.

https://aerocrewnews.com/fmq5

NTSB Update:

The Canadian equivalent of the NTSB (TSB) has released a preliminary report on the CRJ900 accident in Toronto.

Summary: Investigators identified structural integrity, pilot hour requirements, and fatigue as contributing factors. The report states that the aircraft's descent exceeded the landing gear’s design limits. The first officer, who had 1,422 flight hours, was at the controls on their fifth consecutive day of flying.

The investigation is ongoing and may further examine exceptions to U.S. ATP hour requirements, structural strength, and the impact of fatigue.

Full Report: https://aerocrewnews.com/Toronto

AFA Update:

United Flight Attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants, demonstrated at nearly 20 airports worldwide to demand that United Airlines management pay Flight Attendants their fair share.

https://aerocrewnews.com/AFA_Picket

Voting is now open! ACN Photo Contest

Aero Crew News has selected the top 15 photos for our 2025 photo contest! Click the link below to vote for your favorite photo. Voting is open until April 15, 2025.
https://aerocrewnews.com/2025PC

Sun Country Update:

Flight attendants for Sun Country Airlines represented by Teamsters Local 120 have overwhelmingly ratified a new contract with the ultra-low-cost carrier. The five-year agreement, which immediately raises wages and improves benefits, followed a credible strike threat by more than 700 flight attendants.

https://aerocrewnews.com/a87k

BREAKING

Reuters reports that Republic Airways CEO Bryan Bedford is the leading candidate for FAA Administrator under President Trump.

NTSB DCA Accident Preliminary Report Urgent Recommendations:

1. The NTSB recommends that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ban helicopter flights near Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) when Runways 15 and 33 are active for arrivals or departures. This measure addresses the minimal vertical separation—approximately 75 feet—between helicopters and airplanes in these scenarios, which the NTSB deems an "intolerable risk" for potential midair collisions.

2. Establish Alternative Helicopter Routes: Alongside the prohibition, the NTSB advises the FAA to designate new helicopter routes that maintain safe distances from aircraft approaching or departing DCA.

Details: https://aerocrewnews.com/wids

Single Pilot Operations Update

European lawmakers are drafting legislation to permit single-pilot operations during cruise flight, targeting implementation by 2030.

This marks a significant shift in the airline industry. There is an increasing likelihood that mainline flights to North America and beyond will be operated with single-pilot cruise operations well within most pilots' careers. While the U.S. may initially resist such changes, industry experts warn that the cost advantage for European carriers will likely pressure U.S. airlines to push for similar regulations. The adoption of single pilot cruise is also expected to pave the way for more widespread single pilot operations in other phases of flight. Some argue that insurers may be hesitant to cover single-pilot operations, but others point to studies suggesting that potential cost savings would outweigh any increase in insurance premiums.

Pilots concerned about this shift are encouraged to support their union’s political action committee (PAC). Organizations like ALPA have been the most effective in lobbying against legislation threatening air safety.

"For some, the rush of a winning bet can quickly spiral, especially with the rise of easily accessible online platforms."

https://aerocrewnews.com/8r0t

FedEx Update:

"European intra-theater 757 routes, once flown by FedEx ALPA pilots, have vanished from mainline operations—outsourced entirely to foreign contractors."

https://aerocrewnews.com/FedEx

“Today’s visit reaffirmed how being an air traffic controller is one of the best, most rewarding jobs in America, and that the next generation at the Academy is the best in the world."

https://aerocrewnews.com/fut6

Southwest Update:

Southwest Airlines is closing its flight attendant bases in Austin, Texas, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as part of a cost-cutting initiative to enhance operational efficiency.

Effective July 1, 2025, the closures will affect approximately 280 flight attendants, who will be reassigned to one of Southwest's 12 primary bases nationwide.

JetBlue Update:

JetBlue Vacations is expanding its cruise offerings, giving travelers more ways to book and earn rewards.

https://aerocrewnews.com/bkga

Aero Crew News's cover photo

BREAKING:

Silver Airways has abruptly canceled all operations at MCO (Orlando).

According to a memo obtained by ACN, Silver Airways also plans to exit bankruptcy with a significantly reduced ATR fleet and has warned employees that a return to sustainable operations may be more challenging.

DCA Update:

ACN has received multiple reports of airliners experiencing phantom TAs and RAs today while approaching RORRK on final to DCA’s Runway 19.

ATC could not confirm the presence of a second aircraft in all instances. ATC has reportedly been warning pilots as they approach the fix.

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United Update:

Hundreds of United Airlines aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs) represented by the Teamsters Union rallied outside San Francisco International Airport (SFO) today as part of their fight for a contract that reflects their contributions to the company’s record-breaking profits.

https://aerocrewnews.com/39cv

BREAKING

United Airlines CEO has announced that the airline will be aggressive amid a downturn in demand, pressing forward with growth initiatives and hiring, all while teasing a significant upcoming announcement.

In a recent message to employees, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby acknowledged a short-term decline in demand, particularly in government-related sectors. Despite these economic headwinds, Kirby emphasized the airline's commitment to its long-term growth strategy, stating that United will continue hiring, proceed with scheduled training classes, and maintain investments in product enhancements. Additionally, Kirby hinted at "a couple of cool, really big announcements" to be revealed later this year.

Details: https://aerocrewnews.com/UAL

Travel Update:

Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license or another acceptable form to fly within the United States.

https://aerocrewnews.com/l3gz

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Hawaiian Update:

Horizon Air, the regional airline subsidiary of Alaska Air Group, which includes Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, is paving the way to the flight deck for aspiring pilots in Hawaiʻi – without needing to leave the islands for training.

https://aerocrewnews.com/v6jo

Did you know?

The last time United’s flight attendants (the AFA) went on strike was in 1985—and it wasn’t for their own contract… the flight attendants walked out in solidarity with striking ALPA pilots.

Pilots are encouraged to join United's Flight Attendants, represented by the AFA, at their network-wide picket this Wednesday and continue decades of mutual support.

RSVP here: https://aerocrewnews.com/AFA

Spirit Update:

Spirit Airlines announced that it will touch down in the heart of South Carolina this June with new, high-value service at Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).

https://aerocrewnews.com/tm61

JFK Update:

JetBlue, The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Fraport USA, manager of John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 5, have announced a major refresh of the airline’s flagship terminal.

https://aerocrewnews.com/3hix

BREAKING

Delta Air Lines President Glen Hauenstein and United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby surprised investors today at the JP Morgan conference, revealing they are both slashing summer capacity.

Delta will trim its summer schedule, while United is expediting the retirement of 21 aircraft and cutting flights in struggling markets. Both airlines said they are grappling with a decline in bookings. They were, however, both optimistic about falling oil prices and their respective financial health headed into what appears to be a potential economic downturn.

Details: https://aerocrewnews.com/puxe

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Visuals matter.

https://aerocrewnews.com/mk64

Lost your medical? You may still be able to fly GA.

https://aerocrewnews.com/qyja

BREAKING:

American Airlines has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a lower court’s decision that deemed its “Northeast Alliance” partnership with JetBlue Airways a violation of federal antitrust laws.

The alliance, which allowed the airlines to coordinate flights and share revenue in New York City and Boston, was previously blocked after the Justice Department argued it reduced competition and harmed consumers.

Airbus Update:

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued the Type Certificate for the Airbus A321XLR powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines. This follows the certification of the CFM LEAP-1A powered A321XLR in July 2024 and paves the way for the first customer aircraft with Pratt & Whitney engines to enter into service later this year.

https://aerocrewnews.com/89mn

Aeromexico Update:

Viasat Inc., a global leader in satellite communications, today announced that it is expanding its long-standing relationship with Aeromexico.

https://aerocrewnews.com/l1z9

Boeing Update:

Shockey will lead Boeing's global public policy efforts, including U.S. federal, state and local government operations and sustainability, as well as the company's global philanthropic organization Boeing Global Engagement. Additionally, Shockey will ensure a cohesive corporate strategy to communicate Boeing's business interests and drive engagement with public and private stakeholders.

https://aerocrewnews.com/a1b7

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Hawaiian Update:

This Extension includes continued pay increases, retirement improvements, better profit sharing, and a strong foundation to build upon as negotiations for a Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA) begin this month. This provides a second bite at the apple for all Hawaiian and Alaska Flight Attendants claiming their share of the benefits of the merged airline.

https://aerocrewnews.com/fegr

BREAKING

London Heathrow Airport, the busiest airport in Europe and the fourth busiest in the world by passenger traffic, is unexpectedly closed today.

Officials warn that the airport will likely remain closed for the entire day due to a fire impacting the power supply. All flights have been diverted.

Alaska Update:

Alaska Airlines’ more than 6,900 flight attendants, who are represented by the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), have ratified a new three-year contract.

The agreement includes significant improvements including increased pay (including boarding and a ratification payment), greater flexibility and scheduling enhancements, better benefits and more.

https://aerocrewnews.com/o4yo

PSA Update:

PSA Airlines’ Master Executive Council (MEC), part of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), issued an update on March 17, 2025, accusing the company of stalling negotiations despite repeated efforts to move forward.

The MEC also reported a troubling return to pre-FAR 117 pilot-pushing tactics, citing punitive attendance policies and scheduling pressures that may force pilots to fly when unfit for duty. Emphasizing pilot unity, the MEC urged members to stay engaged and vocal while committing to hold the company accountable, demanding real collaboration to ensure safety, fairness, and meaningful progress in contract discussions.

Spirit Update:

Spirit Airlines has emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection after completing a significant financial restructuring.

The airline converted $795 million of debt into equity and secured an additional $350 million equity investment from existing investors. The CEO of Spirit claimed they are "ready to take on Southwest."

https://aerocrewnews.com/xc1n

Atlas Air Update:

Atlas Air has announced a series of crew base adjustments set to take effect on June 1, 2025, marking a strategic shift in its operations.

New Crew Bases Opening:
- Boeing 777: Anchorage (ANC) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Boeing 767: Miami (MIA) and Seattle (SEA)

Crew Base Closures:
- Boeing 747: Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG)
- Boeing 777: Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG)

DCA Update:

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has permanently restricted non-essential helicopter operations around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) following a fatal mid-air collision that resulted in 67 deaths.

This decision includes closing Route 4 between Hains Point and the Wilson Bridge and eliminating mixed helicopter and fixed-wing traffic near the airport. Exceptions are made for urgent missions such as lifesaving medical, priority law enforcement, or Presidential transport.

Pilot Hiring Update:

ACN has received multiple reports that American Airlines will pause hiring effective June 1st.

Aero Crew News is working to substantiate the claims.

BREAKING:

Multiple furlough notices obtained by ACN confirm that Florida-based Silver Airways has begun furloughing pilots.

Approximately 20% of the airline’s pilots have been affected so far. Additionally, Silver has been forced to return nearly one-third of its fleet to lessors.

The airline remains under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as it navigates financial difficulties.

Southwest Airlines is making significant policy changes:

- Checked Bag Fees: Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest will charge for checked bags on some fare types.

- Assigned Seating: The airline is shifting from open seating to assigned seats, with premium options.

- Basic Economy Fares: New low-cost fares will have restrictions but allow free cancellations.

- Rapid Rewards Updates: Progam changes that the airline claims will offer more benefits for credit cardholders.

These changes aim to boost customer satisfaction and profitability but have received mixed reactions from loyal travelers.

BREAKING

Delta just slashed its profit forecast, signaling a potential industry-wide slowdown in air travel demand.

Delta Air Lines has halved its first-quarter profit forecast to 30-50 cents per share, down from 70 cents to $1. The company cited U.S. economic uncertainty impacting domestic travel demand. The announcement sent Delta’s shares tumbling 14%, dragging down other major airlines.

Details: https://aerocrewnews.com/yode

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), officially began negotiations for a Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA) with Alaska Airlines management.

https://aerocrewnews.com/h7gx

Frontier Update:

Ultra-low fare carrier Frontier Airlines was proud to announce it was recently awarded the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Diamond Award of Excellence for 2024.

https://aerocrewnews.com/g11z

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Boeing Update:

Boeing shows signs of turnaround as Boeing leadership reportedly heavily shifts focus from financial priorities to engineering.

In a move that marks a departure from past strategies that cripled Boeing, Ortberg is reportedly integrating engineering teams more deeply into the company’s leadership structure, aiming to address issues stemming from the 737 MAX crisis. His approach reportedly underscores a broader transformation at Boeing, emphasizing product development and safety over cost-cutting measures.

Details: https://aerocrewnews.com/hlsv

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Allegiant Update:

Allegiant Air will close its Los Angeles base at LAX on September 2, 2025, citing unsustainable operating costs that have reached approximately $50 per departing passenger.

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