As part of its recapitalization plan Virgin Australia intends to retire its long-haul aircraft. The carrier’s five 777s and six A330s will be removed from service as it invests “in the core Virgin Australia domestic and short-haul international operation.”
Airplanes and Airports
Virgin Atlantic flied for bankruptcy protection today, and it mostly doesn’t matter
Virgin Atlantic filed for bankruptcy protection in the US courts on Tuesday, a move that initially sparked concerns among travelers about the future of the company. Fortunately the filing, made under Chapter 15 of the US Bankruptcy Code, is more of a procedural play than anything to be concerned about.
Virgin Galactic makes a move in supersonic travel
Virgin Galactic knows that not everyone will go to space. The company is now (slightly) broadening its potential customer base with plans for a Mach 3 aircraft, focused on delivering high-speed travel around the globe.
Cargo passenger hybrids coming to US airlines
Airlines around the world removed the seats from their passenger planes to make more room for cargo. But not in the US. That could change very soon, as the FAA now allows for exemptions to cargo restrictions, engineering companies are securint certifications for the new configurations and airlines are getting the paperwork in order to make the shift.
Boom Supersonic picks an engine manufacturer (for further discussions)
Should the Boom Supersonic jet take flight later this decade there’s a very strong chance it will be powered by Rolls-Royce engines. While this is not a formal engine model selection it does advance the project and provides further indications as to how the program might take flight.
Slot swappin’ – How New York operations could shift for American Airlines and JetBlue
When the deal was first announced JetBlue and American Airlines chose to keep quiet about potential slot swaps at New York City’s airports. With some time now passed, however, both sides are sharing more. And – pending regulatory approval – it is clear that they have big plans together.
Long live the Queen: The Weekly Wrap
Some 747 farewells transitioning into possible electric aircraft growth. Plus an interview about the upcoming FTE/APEX Virtual Expo and lots more!
Pilots furloughs put squeeze on US regional fleets
With US airlines now filing WARN notices for potential furloughs the potential to see that impact their regional partners is becoming more clear. Scope clauses in the pilot union contracts could have a significant impact come 1 October.
Connections and Connectivity: The Weekly Wrap
This week we’re talking about a big new partnership connecting passengers JetBlue and American Airlines, as well as how Middle East Airlines will be getting connected with Panasonic Avionics.
British Airways ends 747 service
British Airways made it official to crew this evening: the 747 will leave its fleet effective immediately. Subject to consultations with employee unions, the Queen of the Skies will not carry passengers for BA again.