We’re just a few days into a new month and there’s still plenty going on in the aviation world. Let’s take a look at what’s been making the news…
Air India – fleet renewal and update continues. Recently took delivery of their second A350-900 and 20th A320neo. There’s much excitement surrounding the Indian carrier’s revamp, but the jury’s still out on the new livery.
Royal Jordanian – excitement is building for the start of 3xweekly AMM-MAN although it’s not until March 2024. Initial flights will be operated by A320 before quickly changing to B787. The airline also recently announced 4xweekly AMM-STN with the same start date.
A380 – in what is viewed as a shock announcement, Airbus CEO recently revealed a revamp of the Super Jumbo with the promise of extensive rethinking and reengineering. One important part of this transformation is more fuel-efficient engines, recognising the worldwide emphasis on sustainability and pollution reduction. Airbus also aims to remodel the interior to increase flexibility, allowing airlines to customise seating combinations and respond to changing route demands. Airbus is continuing with its SAF programme for the A380. A word of caution here, it was such a shock announcement that only one aviation media source, Aviation Future, has so far reported this. Is it an exclusive or purely a speculative report based on recent news about an A370?
MAN – spotters are being treated to some unusual movements at the moment. It’s not known why UAE C-17s are using the airport, so rumours abound. Last week, it was reported that the aircraft was delivering a BMW for diplomatic use. This was immediately questioned, as UAE Embassy is in London, so why not deliver there? With some of the flights continuing to IAD, there was a suggestion that it was a refuelling stop for aircraft en-route to collect Apache helicopters. Interestingly, some spotters have already grown tired of hype around the arrivals! Another military arrival recently was the Irish Air Corps CASA C-295, it’s presence at MAN also unknown. The Thai A330 that’s been with STS for months is now only moved by tug as the engines have been stripped out. Finally, it’s time to say goodbye to Jet2 B757 G-LSAB. The aircraft was scheduled to fly out last Friday, but fog at St Athan means it’s been rearranged for Monday 5 February.
Avion Express – at this time of year, pilots have to contend with variable weather conditions. If it’s not fog then snow, ice, wind all contribute to their workload. A recent incident at Vilnius has caused consternation. The A320 landed, veered right off the runway onto soft ground, crossed a turn off then came to rest on the runway again. The aircraft continued to the next turn off and taxied to the apron. Video footage on The Aviation Herald records the event. Some commercial pilots have described the action as off-roading, wild or just utterly stupid. There are varying reports of damage to the aircraft, apart from it needing a good wash! For information, Avion Express is one of the largest aircraft leasing companies in Europe, offering both wet and dry lease contracts.
Finally…
TUI – continuing their position, reposition then reposition again this winter. Their B787s are in a sorry state. It’s been observed that some may be receiving a new coat of paint, although there is a suggestion that TUI has some kind of agreement with Boeing to analyse how the paint finish handles wear and tear.
Maleth Aero – spare a thought for this leasing company who now operates flights from MAN to the Caribbean for P&O cruise passengers. Several reasons are used for the switch from Virgin Atlantic, but the cruise company is sticking with pilot and aircraft shortage as their reason. A group of passengers is now bringing a law suit against the airline for distress/injury caused by hitting tropical storm severe turbulence during a recent flight.
Information courtesy of Air India, Royal Jordanian, Aviation Future, Simon Lowe Aviation, Aviation Herald, Airline Gossip
Images courtesy of Aviation Herald, Flight Global
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