AvTalk - Aviation Podcast

On this week’s AvTalk, we’re back from Dorkfest/SpotLAX with a busy week of news. We’re digging into the ATC failure that snarled traffic in the northeast US to start the week. And the preliminary technical report from NATS on the 8 September outage of the London Control Area says that one millisecond made all the difference between normal operation and the the cancellation of 2,000 flights. Plus Michael O’Leary gives his thoughts.
And we have a new kind of show notes this week thanks to some feedback from long-time listeners. Once you click play on the podcast, you can click the time code to jump straight to that section. Links to supporting materials are in the section title.
 

–01:45 Opening / A380 episode-number discussion
–05:38 Cranky Dorkfest and SpotLAX recap
–09:38 FAA SMART system and machine learning vs AI
–14:35 PHL TRACON outage — those cables aren’t buried that deep
–19:10 NATS September 8 outage: preliminary technical report
–23:26 Prestwick connectivity outage and airline reaction with a choice quote from Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary
–26:52 GAO report on aviation communications security
–29:19 Embraer E2 GPS problems — Azul, Porter, others?
–33:09 KLM power-bank fire and inconsistent airline battery rules
–35:04 Beijing airspace restrictions — A 600 km wide safety zone
–38:20 Nice runway investigation yields proposed safety improvements
–38:56 Turkish Airlines 737 MAX order
–40:37 Istanbul adds another runway
–42:35 Boeing 777 freighter emissions waiver
–43:35 777X engine mid-seal durability and ETOPS certification
–44:20 Boeing engineering union contract
–45:11 Icelandair mechanics’ “indefinite” strike
–48:17 JSX puts down a deposit on the Heart Aerospace ES-36
–49:20 A321XLR wing becoming standard across A321neo models
–50:14 Qantas Project Sunrise New York announcement — finally
–53:32 Picasso Pilot flight-path artwork

 

Click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason prepare to head to Los Angeles for the annual CrankyFlier Dorkfest and NYC Aviation’s SpotLAX events. If you’re in town, stop by and say hello.
But before we take off, the NTSB released a partial summary of the cockpit voice recorder from the 21 Air 767 that overran the runway in Miami. Far from providing clarity, the summary only adds to the questions raised about the pilots’ actions in the final minutes of the flight.
Anews helicopter covering a fatal car collision crashed in Los Angeles, killing the pilot and reporter onboard the aircraft, as well as one person on the ground.
Virginia Senators Time Kaine and Mark Warner have introduced a bill to limit flights at DCA in Washington DC. We discuss why the DCA Air Safety Act has a long, uphill battle for passage.
A GAO report on the FAA’s recent push to modernize the nation’s air traffic control systems calls for greater cost and schedule planning, noting that there are 11,389 individual project schedules.
And you’re going to be hearing a lot about “capacity” over the next few months. What that means for airlines—and airfares.

Click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the more we learn about last Sunday’s fatal runway overrun in Miami, the more confusing the circumstances become. We break down what we know from the ADS-B data and the limited flight data recorder information released by the NTSB thus far.
A computer failure at NATS leads to the cancellation of 1500 flights over two days in the UK, while Anak Krakatau’s eruption halts flights in Jakarta.
One of only two active DC-8s suffers a runway overrun and gear collapse in Kinshasa. We learn about Honeywell’s Mag Mav, Italian passengers and the danger of steep stairs, and the Swiss transport museum needs to figure out where its going to put a retired A340.
And United’s planned 9/11 flypast in Denver is getting push back. (Ed. note: the flypast was canceled after recording of this episode)

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss the low Airlink flypast in Cape Town, what’s been lost in the discussion so far, and what the South African civil aviation authority has to say about it.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy warns airlines to avoid Russian airspace as drones play an ever increasing role in the war between Russia and Ukraine. German authorities blame Russia for the recent explosive-laden drone in Leipzig.
The FAA is moving to fire a pair of controllers who left the La Guardia tower early on the day of the crash between an Air Canada CRJ and ARFF truck. But the situation isn’t as straightforward as it seems.
South Korean officials move to charge seven officials from the transport ministry with falsifying documents after the Jeju Air crash in Muan.
And US airlines continue the race to be as premium as possible.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Airlink’s low flypast: video, data, airline statement, South Africa CAA statement
* La Guardia Controllers left the tower early
* JetBlue’s new first class
* American Airlines’ new premium heavy 777-300ER
* Chinese airlines swing to losses in the first half of 2026
* Airline Atlas, the new map prints powered by Flightradar24 data

 

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

After a week away, there’s much to discuss on this week’s episode of AvTalk. We start in Munich, where the Runway 26L took a great deal of abuse. We discuss the Vietnam Airlines 787 runway overrun and tail strike, followed two days later by a Lufthansa A380 touching down before the threshold on the same runway.
We also examine what happened aboard Air India A320neo VT-EXO, which briefly lost pressure across all three hydraulic systems, causing an upset that injured nearly two dozen people. Plus, American puts two aircraft with the same call sign on the same frequency—again—and investigators say an unqualified passenger may have been flying a Phenom 100 that overran a wet runway.
Elsewhere, a ramp worker is killed during the pushback of a French bee A350 in Montreal, a Frankfurt Airport employee dies from a rare case of malaria, and a Qantas A380 flies to Dallas and back with a maintenance light left inside its wing. We also discuss rising runway incursions in Australia, the return of the Delta–Aeromexico joint venture, Eurowings’ new Premium BIZ seats, the FAA’s war on plastic cups, United’s orphaned 737 MAX 10 seats, and American’s plan to bring seatback screens back—eventually.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, we’re joined by Goodyear Blimp Chief Pilot Michael Dougherty to learn more about his unique role in the aviation industry.
Also on this week’s episode, German investigators continue looking for answers for how a drone was able to make it onto the Leipzig Airport ramp. FedEx paints a 777 in a special retro livery to coincide with the renaming of Memphis Airport in honor of FedEx founder Frederick W. Smith.
Apollo Global Management wins the battle for easyJet and Air Baltic will shrink its fleet for stability. A BEA report on an incident involving an Air France A320 showcases the dangers of turbulence. And Iberia’s special flight gives us a unique perspective on the total solar eclipse.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Iberia’s live stream from the eclipse
* FedEx retro livery 777
* Transponder landing system at McMurdo Station in Antarctica
* Mr Porter Blind Box

 

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, we jump back to Oshkosh for a conversation with David Ostdiek of GE Aerospace for an in-depth update on the progress being made on the CFM RISE program, as the manufacturer moves toward first flight of the new engine design by the end of the decade.
Also on this week’s episode, a drone laden with explosives is found on the ramp in Leipzig and a DHL 757 strikes something on approach to the airport. The NTSB’s preliminary report on the crash of a Beech King Air in New Mexico leads to popular press reporting that misses the mark. TCAS proves its worth once again as it helps prevent a mid-air collision in Tokyo. And the FAA certifies the Boeing 737-7 MAX after nearly a decade.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* An overview of the RISE program
* DHL 757 flight path 
* NTSB Preliminary report on the crash of N249CP
* FAA statement on 737-7 MAX certification
* Norse statement on IndiGo agreement
* National Airlines 777 flight from Prestwick to Melbourne
* Airbus A350F ground vibration testing

 

Check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, we speak with Xavier Pepin, the captain of the Airbus 24 hour, 24 minute Airbus A350-1000ULR flight from Melbourne to Toulouse. We talk about flight planning, crew resource management, fatigue and rest, and what’s next for the A350-1000ULR flight test program.
Also on this week’s episode, highlights from EAA Airventure in Oshkosh and flying the Goodyear Blimp. Boeing says the 737-10 MAX flight test program is complete after 976 flights. United says it doesn’t want the 777-9s that Emirates also doesn’t want. And Australia releases new fire bomber procedures designed to make fighting bushfires safer.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Airbus makes history with the A350-1000ULR
* Inside the Airbus A350 test cabin
* Inside the Flying Bulls DC-6
* Australia fire bombers SOPs


Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

It’s episode 380, so the Airbus A380 is most certainly on the agenda. But first we’re checking in on the orders placed at this year’s Farnborough Airshow. Sir Tim Clark opines on the proper use of early build Boeing 777X frames. Then we get to learn about the important mission for Airbus’ A380 Flight Lab.
Also, Ian will be at Oshkosh this weekend for the close of EAA AirVenture. Give him a shout if you’re going to be there.
Elsewhere, TCAS does its job over the Atlantic, a Kalitta Air 777 drags its tail in Cincinnati, and passengers on an American Airlines flight from Boston to London go everywhere but London.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* American Airlines flight 108 has a very bad week
* Video of the PanAm DC-4 discovery
* Airbus’ A380 flying test bed
* Preliminary report on the crash of LEGO 747 and Space Shuttle


Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Ryanair (Malta Air) 737-800 suffers an uncontained engine failure after departing Thessaloniki, Greece, resulting in a shattered cabin window and a passenger partially sucked out of the cabin. We discuss the specifics on this accident and its similarities with Southwest 1380.
German investigators release their preliminary report on the Lufthansa 787 that suffered a gear retraction last month in Frankfurt.
In a first on Flightradar24, nine 7700 squawks happen near-simultaneously—we dig into what happened at Gatwick airport on Tuesday.
And the bidding for easyJet heats up as Apollo Global Management bests Castlelake’s bid for the airline.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Ryanair uncontained engine failure
* Southwest 1380
* Lufthansa 787 gear retraction in Frankfurt
* Gatwick emergencies
* easyJet bidders

 

Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we’re headed to Farnborough for an inside look at how the airshow comes together. From state of the art aircraft tracking technology to making sure all of the toilets are working, Farnborough International director of operations Ben Gleenson explains what it takes to make sure the biannual airshow goes off without a hitch.
Also on this week’s episode, what we know so far about the crash of a K2 Airways Cargo 737 off the coast of Pakistan. Castlelake and easyJet agree in principle to an acquisition. A new report highlights long-term issues with French air traffic control — and Ryanair wastes no time seizing the moment to call for reform. And a look at SpiceJet’s operations reveals a much darker picture than we imagined.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Visit the Farnborough Airshow
* K2 Airways 737 crash data
* New automated live streams available on Flightradar24

 

Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a pair of powerful earthquakes cause widespread damage and significant loss of life in Venezuela. We look at how aid is reaching the country and the impacts on commercial aviation. A low pass at Horseshoe Bay by a 777 is under investigation by the FAA. After a small aircraft crashed into the tallest tower in Beijing late last week, Chinese authorities are implementing further restrictions on general aviation flights in the country. An Electra Airways A320 operating from Warsaw to Tel Aviv on behalf of LOT accidentally squawked 7500 — signaling unlawful interference on the flight deck.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* 777 low pass video and data
* Accidental squawk 7500


Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, airspace safety and efficiency take center stage as the NTSB begins an investigation into a close call in Boston. The US Coast Guard says changes to DC’s airspace have actually made helicopter operations in the region less safe. US congressional leaders remain at odds over competing aviation safety bills, but the real sticking point seems to be money. And the FAA announced this week its choice for developing AI-enabled airspace modernization tools.
Plus, there are more problems with Airbus A380 wings, one airline is lowering fees (really), and World Cup special liveries abound.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* World Cup special liveries
* EASA A380 EAD
* The Air Current reporting on US Coast Guard comments on DC airspace


Check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Indian investigators issue a progress note, but don’t necessarily note their progress. After more than a decade of negotiations the European Parliament keeps its signature airline compensation legislation much the same. Qantas announces the first Project Sunrise route for its forthcoming Airbus A350-1000ULRs. And Spirt gets the go-ahead to auction off its assets, including its coveted slots at La Guardia Airport in New York.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Read the AAIB progress report
* IATA’s Save a life, not a bag campaign
* Reuters reporting on the Pope’s plane problems
* Delta Material Services

 

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Lufthansa 787 takes a bow in Frankfurt, the NTSB issues its preliminary report on the United 767 accident in Newark, and Canadian authorities charge a former Air Canada pilot with fraud and forgery after it was discovered he flew for the airline without ever having the appropriate license. We also check in on the IATA annual general meeting to see airlines looking hopeful about Boeing’s certification efforts, gloomy about sustainable aviation fuel, and stormy about the current (and future) price of jet fuel.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, SAS’s India relaunch doesn’t quite make it to India. The first Airbus A350-100ULR for Qantas’ Project Sunrise takes to the skies.
Boeing is advancing the 737 MAX monthly production rate as it says it anticipates MAX 7 and MAX 10 certification by the end of the year.
Violence flares in the Middle East with fresh strikes, including one that hit Kuwait Airport, killing one person and injuring dozens in the terminal.
Swiss is parting out a pair of A220-100s and parking the rest to support its A220-300 fleet.
Want to buy an MD-83? A former Far Eastern Air Transport frame is up for auction.
Send us your questions about the Goodyear Blimp! Email us at podcast@fr24.com

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

We’re in Stockholm for a our semi-annual Flightradar24 crew meetup this week. Ian is joined by Gabe Leigh to discuss what’s it like behind the scenes capturing the stories of aviation professionals around the world.
We review the recent incident where NTSB cockpit voice recorder data from UPS flight 2976 was used to recreate simulated audio. The NTSB removed the public docket system in order to prevent further such efforts. The preliminary investigation into the China Eastern A350 jet bridge collision in Shanghai finds a total brake failure on the aircraft. Qantas says its Project Sunrise A350-1000s are delayed again due to supply chain issues. And we recap our flights with the Flying Veterans Association  this week and our plan to get on one of the rarest flights in the world.
Planning on visiting ILA Berlin this year? AvTalk listeners can receive 10% off trade visitor tickets using the code ILA26_flightradar on ILA Berlin’s ticketing site.
Visit our YouTube channel for an all access pass to the best of the world of aviation professionals.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, we follow the NTSB’s thread as the agency holds two days of investigative hearings on the crash of UPS flight 2976, the MD-11 that crashed in Louisville after one of its engines separated from the wing. The FAA issues its first official response to the NTSB’S safety recommendations following the 2025 DCA mid-air collisions. And the NTSB calls for more realistic training of smoke in the cockpit scenarios after a 2023 incident.
A Croatia Airlines A220 suffers a runway excursion during a rejected takeoff in Split. Indian investigators will travel to Seattle in June to be present for tests of 787 fuel cutoff switches at Boeing’s Pacific Northwest facilities. And WestJet is under investigation for what passengers are calling a deceptive practice of swapping flights to airplanes undergoing maintenance before cancelling those flights to avoid paying compensation.
 

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we’re joined by Nomadic Aviation Group co-founder Steve Giordano to talk about what happens when you suddenly need to move dozens of aircraft in a very short amount of time. Steve and his crew have spent the past two weeks bringing former Spirit Airlines aircraft to the desert for storage following the collapse of the airline on May 2nd. What does it take to make sure those aircraft can be legally, safely, and efficiently moved from wherever they ended up when the airline shut down?
Also on this week’s episode, a tragedy in Denver as a man intentionally entered the runway and was struck by a departing Frontier flight. FedEx returns the MD-11 to service, Lufthansa Group ups its stake in ITA Airways and orders new aircraft, while Air India formalizes its summer schedule reductions in the face of geopolitical and economic headwinds. The FAA says it will now add transponders to all of its airport ground vehicles, but the agency has been reminding airports that money is available to equip vehicles for the last 3 years. And to everyone’s dismay, MHIRJ’s chief says the CRJ-200 could fly for another 20 years.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* An early look at the latest episode of Cockpit Casual featuring Steve and his team’s efforts moving former Spirit Aircraft, as well as a heartfelt goodbye from Spirit staff
* Where former Spirit Airlines aircraft are located now
* Frontier A321neo strikes person in Denver
* NTSB two-day investigative hearing on UPS crash
* New Zealand Q300 final report

 

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

This week’s episode of AvTalk takes us from the highest highs to the lowest lows of the aviation industry. We begin with a major announcement mere minutes before our recording as AirAsia orders 150 A220s in a new, denser cabin configuration. Spirit Airlines succumbs to its long running financial difficulties and ceases operations. Newly released documents provide insight into the crash of a China Eastern 737 in 2022. And video from this week’s incident involving a China Eastern A350 in Shanghai raises more questions than it answers. Back in the US, a United Airlines 767 struck a light pole and damaged a delivery truck while landing in Newark. And you could become the world’s most well paid airplane valet.

Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the NTSB’s preliminary report on the crash at La Guardia Airport in New York lays out the avenues of investigation and spurs the Port Authority to action. FedEx says it will put the MD-11 back into service in May, but the FAA still needs to weigh in. US low cost carriers are pitching the government on a $2.5 billion support package, while Spirit negotiates separately for an increasingly unlikely $500 million loan.
Alaska Airlines launches its first European service, while American Airlines returns to Venezuela for the first time since 2019. American and Southwest roll out special liveries ahead of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Plus, this month in Tokyo, humanoid robots could soon be handling your bags.
And we mark a special week at Flightradar24 as Fredrik Lindahl passes the CEO baton to Andreas Schorling.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* NTSB preliminary report on LGA collision
* Reporting on FedEx MD-11s via FreightWaves
* Southwest’s Independence One
* Welcoming Andreas Schorling as Flightradar24’s new CEO


Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Europe’s jet fuel supplies run low while airlines cut flights as we transition into the summer season. We’re joined by Steven Fox from NATS to learn more about how the UK’s air navigation service provider prepares for the influx of summer flights.
TCAS plays an important role in the nature of our discussions as we discuss safety margins rather than mid-air collisions. And pilots of a Lufthansa flight act well before a situation in Bogota becomes unsafe.
The back half of this week’s episode checks in on the financial state of the aviation industry, mainly in the US. Boeing and United Airlines report their earnings, while JetBlue reports getting a loan. And Spirit Airlines looks to the US government to help it avoid liquidation.
And we take a surprisingly thorough look at the discussions over how many flights the FAA will allow at Chicago-O’Hare International Airport this summer. Not because the discussions were particularly insightful, but because who doesn’t love the classic board game Clue?
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Boeing Q1 2026 earnings
* Boeing anti-ice fix in flight testing
* O’Hare flight reduction transcripts
* The European Union’s AccelerateEU proposals


Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we make our annual trek to Hamburg for the Aircraft Interiors Expo where Jason is joined once again by PaxEx.aero’s Seth Miller.

* Buttons, buttons, and more buttons
* The Skynook concept

American Airlines celebrates its 100th anniversary with a special flight and a new set of trading cards, while Lufthansa celebrates its 100th anniversary with a cabin crew strike.
Many publications jumped on news this week that United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby suggested a merger between United and American Airlines. We take an icy look at this unserious proposal.
A retiring Icelandair pilot decided to celebrate with a (very) low pass over Vestmannaeyjabær. The only problem: they didn’t have permission. Now the airline and authorities are investigating the stunt.
The US House of Representatives passes a modified version of the ALERT Act, setting requirements for ADS-B In and ACAS-X equipage. The House and Senate will need to agree on compromise language between the ALERT Act the Senate-passed ROTOR Act if the bill is to become law. And a Senate committee advanced legislation that would update how the FAA handles pilot and air traffic controller mental health.
And we go all the way back to Episode 78 as Air New Zealand’s SkyNest is finally set to make its debut.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we make a special trip to space and await Artemis II’s return to Earth. A tenuous cease fire in Iran leads to the first airspace re-openings, but a lack of jet fuel is affecting airports in Asia and Europe.
US airlines are hiking bag fees across the board and United Airlines is introducing basic premium fares. And in Brisbane, one particular jet bridge really had it out for a pair of 737s.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* How NASA’s Optical Communications System (O2O) works
* NASA’s test cat “Taters”
* Photos from the Artemis II mission
* United Airlines’ new basic business class fares

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, airlines—and entire countries—outside of the Middle East are facing a reckoning as the high price and impending unavailability of fuel. The FAA is making changes to approaches in San Francisco, reducing the arrival rate even further than planned runway construction already will. A Delta A330 suffers an uncontained engine failure departing São Paulo.
Major leadership changes are coming at Air Canada and IndiGo and Jason nominates Ian for IATA director general. And it’s a busy week for new special liveries.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* SAS’ 80th anniversary livery
* JetBlue’s Blueprint II
* Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary employee livery

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss what we know so far about the collision between flight AC8646 and an airport fire truck at New York’s La Guardia Airport. We walk through the sequence of events provided by the NTSB and analyze some of the initial areas where investigators are focusing their efforts.
In Los Angeles, Jason is joined by Ned Russell and Jon Ostrower to recap the news from United Airlines’ big reveal, including new aircraft configurations, features, and a new aircraft name. Plus, it was the unscripted comments just as much as the scripted ones from United CEO Scott Kirby that got our attention.
In the Middle East, Qatar Airways is parking a portion of its fleet while some countries in Asia are warning of a looming fuel shortage. Plus we check in on news orders for the Finnair fleet to find the airline still very much averse to the A320neo family.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* La Guardia crash data
* FAA issues new rules on helicopter separation

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, more updates on the war in the Middle East, including the mid-air collision between two US Air Force KC-135s and an Iranian drone attack on a fuel facility next to Dubai International Airport. We take a gander at some wildlife related accidents and Atlas Air places the largest A350F order so far. A Tunisian appeals court increases the sentences of two airline executives convicted in hiring fraud. And LEGO is ready with another aviation set that we can’t wait to get our hands on.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Middle East war live blog
* Beware elk and hog hunters
* Spirit’s new plan
* LEGO’s new DC-3

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, updates on the war in the Middle East and the widening effects on the aviation industry. We cover the new airspace restrictions in Azerbaijan, additional rescue flights by airlines in the region, and the pressing problem of skyrocketing fuels costs around the world.
Also on this week’s episode, Air India Express loses a nose wheel in Phuket, while IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers abruptly resigns. Auditors in South Korea explain why the ILS antenna in Muan was constructed with a concrete wall.
China is considering a large Boeing order to be timed with a state visit by US President Trump to Beijing. We review preliminary reports on the SAS attempted taxiway takeoff and the Bangor Challenger crash.
And another search for the missing MH370 yields no results as we mark 12 years since the 777 disappeared.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Middle East updates live blog
* Air India Express loses its nose wheel
* SAS attempted taxiway departure report
* Bangor crash preliminary report

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss the US-Israeli attack on Iran and Iranian response with an eye on the effects on commercial aviation. Airspace closures, flight cancellations, reroutes, diversions, and how airlines are coping with the rapid changes.
Also on this week’s episode, another emergency evacuation with passengers carrying their baggage, the FAA steps in between United and American in Chicago, investigators issue their final report on LATAM’s 2024 inflight upset, and Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary livery 747 comes home to Frankfurt.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Middle East airspace closures live blog
* GPS jamming map
* Brett Snyder’s article on United vs American in Chicago
* Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary 747 arrives in Frankfurt

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, after passing unanimously in the Senate, the US House of Representatives votes down the aviation safety-focused ROTOR Act, which was championed by the NTSB, pilots’ unions, and families of the victims of last year’s mid-air collision in Washington DC. The House will now turn to an alternate bill, the ALERT Act. We break down the differences between the bills and reaction to Tuesday’s vote.
Elsewhere, Spirit Airlines says it has a plan to emerge from bankruptcy, cartel violence paralyzes a pair of Mexican airports early in the week, a big news from Really Cool Airlines (yes, that is their actual name).
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Flights return to New York and Boston after the snow
* NTSB fact sheet on differences between the ROTOR Act and the ALERT Act
* Spirit’s plan to exit bankruptcy
* Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary livery A380
* Aireon data now available on Flightradar24

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Plenty to discuss on this week’s episode of AvTalk:

* More clarity on what exactly led to the closure of airspace above El Paso last week
* A United Airlines flight from Lagos experiences an extraordinary series of events (UA613 leg 1 | UA613 leg 2)
* ANA operates a 14 hour flight from Tokyo to Tokyo
* An Arik Air 737 experiences an uncontained engine failure
* A LATAM 777 rejects take off beyond V1
* The NTSB releases its final report on the DCA mid-air collision
* Brussels Airlines unveils new Tintin livery

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!
 

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian is joined by Ned Russell in the studio as Jason and Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren report from their outpost in the Caribbean. We try to understand what happened in El Paso on Wednesday morning and offer some thoughts on the FAA administrator’s actions to close airspace around the city. Cuba says it is out of jet fuel. This has led to flight cancellations by some airlines, but a few seem to still be able to top up before returning home. Lufthansa pilots strike for better compensation and investigators focus their sights on why a LATAM 777 suffered a tail strike on departure from Milan last year.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* A photo of the Britten Norman Trislander
* The El Paso NOTAM
* Havana Airport departure and arrival boards
* SAS taxiway departure
* PT-MUG tail strike final report

Thank you for listening!
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On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the FAA finalizes the rule mandating 25-hour recordings on cockpit voice recorders. Confusion ensues after President Trump says he’s decertifying “Canadian made” aircraft. Air India and Indian investigators probe a fuel cutoff switch incident aboard a Boeing 787 in London. And the Singapore Air Show brings some interesting orders.
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Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode

On this week’s episode of AvTalk:

* The NTSB holds its board meeting to determine the probable cause of the mid-air collision above the Potomac River last January
* UPS announces it has retired its MD-11 fleet
* A Bombardier business jet crashes attempting to depart Bangor, Maine
* Airlines are modifying their routes and schedules to avoid tensions in the Middle East
* A massive winter storm forces airlines to cancel more than 20,000 flights
* A British Airways A350 loses a wheel departing Las Vegas
* JetBlue livery contest

Thank you for listening!
Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

Check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the US issues a set of NOTAMs warning of military activity in a large swath of the North Pacific. The NTSB issues an update on the UPS MD-11 crash, focusing on additional materials analysis performed on a bearing from the engine pylon mount. An ATR 42 operating for the Indonesian government crashes while attempting to land in Makassar. And a United A321neo loses a nose wheel during a hard landing in Orlando. Plus, you could be the proud new owner of a VIP configured 747SP.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* NTSB investigative update on UPS MD-11 crash
* EASA CZIB on Iran
* Video of United A321neo hard landing
* United converts 787 order
* FAA says MAX delays not our fault
* New Addis Ababa Airport trailer
* Want to buy a 747SP?

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On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Boeing and Airbus report their final tallies for orders and deliveries in 2025 and it was Boeing’s best year since 2018. Allegiant is buying Sun Country in a shake up of the ultra low-cost market in the US. Delta comes full circle and orders up to 60 787s. And a pair of reports from British accident investigators highlight the importance of good procedure on the flight deck.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Air France flight 191
* Allegiant announcement on Sun Country merger
* Boeing 2025 orders and deliveries
* Airbus 2025 orders and deliveries

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Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

We begin the year with a mess in Amsterdam as more than 3,000 flights have been canceled at the airport this week following snow storms and a long list of operational problems. We look at the impact on civil aviation from the US military action in Venezuela last weekend. Kazakhstan investigators issue an update on their investigation into Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243.
We delve into a wide variety of regulatory updates, including another round of radio altimeter updates because of 5G mobile data. It would appear that Pakistan International Airlines is actually on its way to privatization.
And in our most exciting story on this week’s episode, Coulson is developing a 767 Very Large Air Tanker for fire fighting.
Other helpful links

* American bets passengers might actually prefer longer trips – CrankyFlier
* Cathay Pacific’s 80th anniversary livery A350
* American Airlines’ newest 100th anniversary livery

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Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to every single episode, we appreciate you spending your time with us. If you’d like to help other people find AvTalk, please consider leaving a rating and review on the the platform of your choice. Happy tracking and thanks for listening!

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we’re beginning 2026 by looking back at a pair of our favorite conversations from 2025.  Throughout the year, we focused a lot on the seemingly unending stream of news and what it meant for the aviation industry, but we also had a chance to speak with some very interesting people.
We first revisit our conversation with Eliska Hill, Senior Vice President for Cargo at Air Partner. We chatted about her career path, how the cargo market has evolved post-COVID, and some of the more interesting shipments she’s had to deal with.
And then we sat down with Katherine Moloney, pilot and founder of Elevate(her) Aviation, an organization dedicated to raising the percentage of women in aviation careers around the world. Elevate(her)’s research has led to some obvious immediate changes that would be beneficial to the industry overall and others that offer a more sustainable path to growing the number of women joining—and staying—in aviation.
Thank you all so much for listening to AvTalk, we truly appreciate all of you! We’ll be back next week with our first new episode of the year as we take on all the news that’s happened while we’ve been on break, including the first real-world use of Garmin’s Emergency Autoland system and updates on the investigation into the crash of Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a pair of incidents involving civilian aircraft and military aircraft without active transponders operating in Curaçao’s airspace sounds a bit too familiar. We discuss the events from the last week and the state of airspace in the southern Caribbean.
NTSB chair Jennifer Homendy had choice words for Congress after legislation weakening airspace protections put in place in the wake of January’s crash in Washington DC passed as part of the NDAA. But the Senate has now passed the ROTOR Act, which seeks to further strengthen those protections. We discuss what this might mean for aircraft operators in the US over the next few years.
Elsewhere, Spirit Airlines is still operating and a merger with Frontier is back on the table… again. A sun visor detached on a Malta Air 737 leading to an engine shutdown. And Lufthansa received an offer from the US Air Force it couldn’t refuse and will now say goodbye to a pair of 747-8Is in 2026.
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason return from their respective travels to survey this week’s news. We return to India where IndiGo’s meltdown last week left the government none-too-pleased with the airline. In the US, Peraton gets the nod as the FAA’s prime integrator for ATC modernization. Boeing completes its acquisition of Spirit Aerosystems (with Airbus picking up some pieces too).
A quickly fixed typo in a Qantas computer started a chain of events that resulted in a 737 taking off thinking it was much lighter than it actually was. And Air India is on the hook for more than $100,000 after discovering they own a 737-200 freighter that had been collecting dust in Kolkata for more than a decade.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Qantas 737 take off weight miscalculation report

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Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian is joined by new Flightradar24 crew member Daniel Gustafsson in the Flightradar24 offices in Stockholm, while Jason finishes his journey through Japan’s cat cafes.
We walk through the current NOTAMs affecting flights in and around Venezuela, as well as some of the unofficial pronouncements made with regard to Venezuelan airspace. We also discuss new reporting on the rift between the NTSB and India’s AAIB regarding the investigation of AI171. Airbus A320 family aircraft were grounded for a period last week to address a vulnerability in certain elevator aileron computers (ELAC). And a pair of reports show the benefits of the ground proximity warning system (GPWS).
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* NOTAMs regarding Venezuela
* Unofficial statements regarding Venezuelan airspace
* Reporting on NTSB-AAIB rift
* Flightradar24 playback of Air Arabia GPWS incident departing Catania
* Flightradar24 playback of Ryanair GPWS incident in Malaga
* Ryanair Malaga preliminary report

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Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian is joined by aviation journalist Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren to discuss a trio of recently released preliminary accident reports.

* UPS flight 2976 — MD-11F crash on take off in Louisville

* Emergency Airworthiness Directive regarding MD-11s
* Emergency Airworthiness Directive regarding DC-10s


* United Airlines flight 1093 — impact with object at 36,000 feet
* airACT 747-400F runway excursion in Hong Kong

Plus, Jason reports in from Seoul, South Korea where he’s joined by Seth Miller. They chat about their very different methods of getting from the US to Seoul this week and Seth’s quest to achieve the JetBlue 25for25 prize.
Wishing all our listeners in the US a very happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, the Dubai Airshow wraps up with a long list of major orders and other announcements. The FAA cancels its cancellation order and air traffic in the US returns to pre-government shutdown levels. Plus, anti-GPS jamming technology is coming from Fokker Services in early 2026.
We’re also joined by The Up Front editor-in-chief and Airbus A340-600 aficionado/historian John Walton for an in depth discussion on the development and staying power of Airbus’ longest airplane. AvTalk listeners have exclusive access to a special 24% off subscription rate to The Up Front.
Helpful links for this week’s show

* FAA cancellation order canceled
* A340-600 downstairs lavatories
* A340-600 “Longer Larger Fart”
* Video: Accepting a new E195-E2
* A new SWISS watch 

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Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, US airspace held together—barely—with hastily announced cuts to flights at major airports going into effect and air traffic controller staffing triggers peaking on Sunday. We also discuss comments from President Trump (09:23-15:28) on controller staffing during the shutdown and what effect that sentiment might have on controllers in the future.
Updates on the crash of UPS 2976, including the latest updates from the NSTB and the FAA’s decision to ground the MD-11 fleet for inspections.
Australian investigators detail two flights that came extremely close to construction workers on the runway. And United files its response to a lawsuit from passengers who say they paid for a window seat, but all they got was a view of the aircraft sidewall. Listen to the discussion and let us know if you’re also “reasonable people.”
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* FAA requires flight cuts at 40 major airports
* Airline executives skeptical of flight cut justification
* UPS 2976 investigative updates
* FAA grounds MD-11s for inspections
* ATSB report (with video) on pair of close calls at Melbourne

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss what we know so far about the crash of UPS Airlines flight 2976 in Louisville. To manage some of the burden on air traffic controllers during the government shutdown, the US is telling airlines to cancel up to 10% of their flights in major markets. Embraer says it is working on new ideas, but who knows which ones will come to market? And a bill working its way through the legislature in Brazil reads like a list of consumer complaints against airlines.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* UPS MD-11(F) crashes on take off in Louisville
* US telling airlines to cancel flights at 40 airports
* The Air Show podcast (re: American Airlines)

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we chat with Katherine Moloney, a pilot and founder of Elevate(her) Aviation, an organization dedicated to raising the percentage of women in aviation careers around the world. Elevate(her)’s research has led to some obvious immediate changes that would be beneficial to the industry overall and others that offer a more sustainable path to growing the number of women joining—and staying—in aviation.
Also in this week’s episode,

* Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines now have a single operating certificate and we say goodbye to the “Hawaiian” call sign.
* The airACT 747 has beenremoved from the sea in Hong Kong and investigators are beginning their examination of the data recorders.
* The preliminary report on the near collision between a Nouvelair A320 and easyJet A320 in Nice points to just how close the aircraft were to disaster
* Hurricane Hunter aircraft collecting data on Hurricane Melissa twice needed to turn out of the storm due to severe turbulence.
* A Lufthansa flight took to the long way to Cape Town this week, we discuss the need for the detour.

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss two statistically improbable events — an airACT 747 veered off the runway and struck a vehicle before ending up in the sea and a United Airlines 737-8 MAX struck something at 36,000 feet. We walk through the most likely scenario at this point.
Lack of communication (literally) leads to a diversion in Omaha, the NTSB releases its preliminary report on the runway overrun in Roanoke, Boeing is moving up to production of 42 737s per month, and the US Senate advances a bill that would add requirements for ADS-B In usage and remove exemptions for most military flights.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* airACT 747 veers off runway in Hong Kong
* United Airlines flight diverts after impact at 36,000 feet
* Diversion back to Omaha
* NTSB report on runway overrun in Roanoke
* Senate advances ADS-B IN bill
* A new plan for LAX

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Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Russian president Vladimir Putin admits Russian air defenses damaged Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 before it crashed near Aktau in Kazakhstan. American Airlines unveils its centennial logo ahead of its 100th anniversary next year. More than half of Finnair’s A321 fleet is currently undergoing inspections after the seat covers were washed with water. And there’s money behind a bid to revive Pan Am, with a plan for a hub in Miami.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Data on J28243’s crash in Aktau
* American Airlines’ newest special livery retro jet, N735AT
* IATA’s Mark Searle WSOC speech on safety
* Finnair’s water woes
* Boeing’s new electronic standard for parts authentication

 
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, we discuss last week’s collision between two Endeavor Air CRJ-900s at La Guardia and what new video tells us about how it happened.
Similar to last time the US federal government shut down, focus is on the actions of air traffic controllers. While ATC work slowdowns are widely credited with ending the previous shutdown, there’s reason to believe the situation is different this time around.
An Air India 787’s ram air turbine deployed on approach to Birmingham, even though the jet’s engines were functioning normally. The Federation of Indian Pilots is calling for inspection of all Indian 787s as some commentators attempt to draw parallels to the crash of AI171.
Spirit Airlines is asking the court for approval to reject 87 more aircraft leases. The rejections, which would take place by the end of the month, would take the airline out of the A320neo family of aircraft entirely.
And the Airbus A320 family has just passed the 737 as the highest selling aircraft of all time.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* CRJs collide in New York — data and video of the collision
* FAA National Airspace status page
* Air India RAT deployment flight
* Airbus A320 family vs Boeing 737 family operations, 2018-2025
* JetBlue’s new special “Isla del Bluencanto” special Puerto Rican heritage livery
* JSX “retro” livery

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we chat with Eliska Hill, Senior Vice President of Cargo for the UK and the rest of the world at Air Partner about the state of the cargo market, where recovery has come post-COVID, and how companies with something to ship are beginning to expect a different level of service.
In the Nordics, business is not booming with airlines PLAY and BRA’s Airbus division ending flights and the Greenland airports authority introduces restrictions that cripple Air Greenland’s operations in Nuuk.
Boeing begins thinking about possibly at some point, maybe, eventually building a new narrow body airplane. As for aircraft that are real, the FAA now says that Boeing can issue airworthiness certificates for some aircraft, some of the time.
After a gear-up landing by a SKYhigh Dominica E190 in Santo Domingo, we learn about the airports recent development of the runway’s adjacent taxiway for takeoffs and landings. And we probe the mystery a revived A380.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Wall Street Journal article on planning for Boeing’s new plane
* Spirit’s restructuring plan with lease rejections
* NTSB report on jammed printers and distracted controllers
* A whale of a mystery: what will happen to MSN 114?

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Nouvelair flight almost lands on top of an easyJet A320 in Nice. In Aalborg, Copenhagen, and Oslo, reported drone sightings put a halt to flights. And we spend a lot of time in the low cost segment of the industry with fresh bad news for Spirit Airlines, Frontier’s CEO hitting back at United’s CEO and Ryanair’s move to all-digital boarding passes. Plus, Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren and Jason are back from their schnitzel-stop tour of European low-cost carriers to fill us in on the state of long-haul, low-cost across the Atlantic.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Nouvelair and easyJet in Nice
* FAA SAFO on cabin baggage
* N302PQ — Delta’s new tail CRJ-900

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Spirit Airlines crew is slow to respond to a New York Center controller while in the same airspace as Air Force One, leading to some choice words from the controller. We break down what happened over Long Island.
Spirit Airlines tells its pilots union that it needs to find $100 million in savings by October 1 or risk seeking bankruptcy court invalidation of their contract. Meanwhile, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby says United isn’t interested in Spirit’s assets.
The US Department of Transportation terminates Delta and Aeromexico’s joint venture, effective 1 January 2026. The FAA proposes fining Boeing $3.1 million for “hundreds” of safety violations dating back to 2023.
And after a runway overrun in July, both Air Peace 737 pilots test positive for alcohol, but that’s not why the Captain has been suspended.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* ATC audio of Spirit Airlines and Air Force One episode over New York (relevant section begins at 22:45 into the recording)
* DOT terminates Delta + Aeromexico joint venture
* Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau preliminary report on Air Peace 5N-BQQ
* FAA proposes $3.1 million fine against Boeing
* Korean Air’s 777 to avoid

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we’re joined by The Up Front editor-in-chief John Walton to discuss the peculiar nature of the Premium Economy cabin on Air Côte d’Ivoire’s new A330neo and the wider issues with cabin certification across the industry.
Russian drones enter Polish airspace, triggering a response from NATO and shifting flights further from the border. A WestJet 737 suffers a hard landing at SXM. The NTSB releases its preliminary report on the Delta flight 56 turbulence incident. EMAS makes two saves in one day. And the Spanish airports authority hits back at Ryanair.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* No seat, no stowage: The Up Front’s article on the new Air Côte d’Ivoire A330
* The Up Front 24% off subscription offer
* Westjet hard landing playback
* NTSB preliminary report on DL56
* EMAS saves at Chicago and Boca Raton
* AENA statement on Ryanair
*

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s AvTalk, we discuss European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen’s flight to Plovdiv—from initial breathless reports talking of circling for hours, using paper maps to land and “praying for landing” to what the data actually tells us.
Spirit Airlines files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time in less than a year. Ryanair and the Spanish airports operator AENA are fighting, with Ryanair threatening to withdraw 1 million seats from Spain in the upcoming winter season.
And some good news for Embraer as the first E190-E2 goes to Australia and the E2 series wins certification in South Africa.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Von der Leyen’s flight to Plovdiv
* ICAO assembly agenda
* Southwest begins flying with secondary barriers
* Spirit files for Chapter 11 protection again
* FAA BVLOS rules for drones
* Become the FAA’s prime integrator

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Nuuk, Greenland cancels international flights after security screeners need additional training. Korean Air signals its intent to purchase more than 100 Boeing aircraft, but most of the proposed order is for aircraft not yet certified. Reports are swirling that China is looking to make a massive order for both Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Frontier is taking steps to hasten Spirit’s demise. And authorities in Madagascar expand their investigation into five 777s illegally transferred to Iran off the Malagasy register.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Nuuk security screening problems
* Korean Air announcement
* Frontier’s new routes
* EASA VTOL noise regulations proposal

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, United and Delta Air Lines face lawsuits for charging extra for window seats without a window. Serbian investigators reveal the extent of damages to a Marathon Airlines E195 during takeoff in Belgrade and the chain of errors leading up to the flight. A Finnair ATR (operated by NORRA) has an unfortunate incident with a ground power unit. Air Canada’s flight attendants return to work and a tentative agreement could be the first domino to fall in how flight attendants across the industry are paid.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Marathon Airlines report
* Finnair ATR photo
* Ryanair Seat 11A (no window)
* Spirit Airlines flight through (over) Hurricane Erin

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Spirit Airlines’ second quarter earnings report raises “ongoing concern” concerns and paints a bleak portrait of the airline’s future. A French notification about a Swiss investigation tips us off to a close call by an Aegean A320neo from last November.
Brazilian investigators release their final report on the collision between a GOL 737 MAX and a truck on the runway and reveal the incredible sequence of events the prevented the accident from being much, much worse and also how it could have been avoided entirely.
The US DOT Office of Inspector General has launched an audit of the FAA’s airspace organization around DCA airport and the ADS-B exceptions provided to military aircraft.
Chile has agreed to drop the charges against Ethan Guo, the pilot who landed at Chile’s Antarctic base, but Guo is still stuck for the time being.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Spirit Airlines Q2 financial report
* Aegean Airlines flight
* GOL 737 MAX vs truck final report
* US DOT OIG audit announcement

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, what we learned from days two and three of the NTSB’s hearings on the midair collision at DCA. A Delta A330neo experiences severe turbulence, Boeing adds a new 777-9 to 777X test fleet, and Alaska Airlines unveils a new livery for its 787s. Plus, ANA retires the R2-D2 livery 787, the FAA releases proposed rules for beyond line of sight UAS operations, and Madagascar arrests two people over the transfer of a quintet of 777s to Iran.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Delta A330neo experiences turbulence
* Boeing’s fifth 777X flight test aircraft
* Cathay Pacific flights add up to 28 hours on a plane
* Alaska Airlines new 787 livery
* Nolinor’s “new” 737-200
* ANA retires R2-D2
* FAA NPRM for BVLOS UAS OPS
* 787 draws world’s largest self-portrait
* Wendover video on Scope Clause

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, what we learned from the first of three days of investigative hearings by the NTSB into January’s crash at DCA. Russian investigators peel the layers of problems that led to the crash of a Gazpromavia SuperJet. An American Airlines 737 suffers a landing gear problem and fire in Denver.
In our strange new series there’s more animal-related aviation news this week and in honor of our 330th episode, Ian gives Jason a pop quiz on the Airbus A330.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

NTSB investigative hearings
Russian investigator’s report on the SuperJet crash
American Airlines 737 playback
OIG announcement
Nordwind flight to Pyongyang

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian returns from Europe and Jason returns from sitting and staring at the wall for a brand new episode. We discuss the conversation around the Air India flight 171 preliminary report, a close call in Mexico City, and another in Minot, North Dakota.
Plus, things are looking up for airlines awaiting Boeing 737 MAX deliveries, the NTSB issues a final report that raises questions about moose meat and the Ship to Theseus, and someone smuggles a turtle onto a flight.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

Air India flight 171 preliminary report
Data on close call in Mexico City
Air Force statement on Minot incident
NTSB report on Alaska crash

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Indian investigators narrow the focus of their investigation on the crashed 787’s fuel cut off switches. Lufthansa has quite the week with a damaged A340 in need of an unpressurized transatlantic ferry flight, a diverted 747 in South America, and a loose cat locked in a lavatory. A young pilot flies to Antarctica without authorization, raising the ire of the Chilean government. A man is ingested by a Volotea A319 engine in Milan and the NTSB releases its preliminary report on the close call between a Delta A319 and a flight of T-38s in Washington DC.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* The Air Current’s report on the AI171 investigation
* Lufthansa A340 unpressurized transatlantic ferry flight
* Unauthorized flight to Antarctica
* Volotea flight in Milan
* NTSB Delta—T-38s preliminary report

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Indian investigators have downloaded the data from AI171’s recorders. Chinese authorities decline to release a report on China Southern flight 5735, citing threats to “national security and social stability.” A report on the Heathrow power station fire makes clear that it should have never happened. And a US Air Force base is being overrun by squirrels… again.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* China Eastern Airlines flight 5735 data and report announcement
* BBC summary of Heathrow transformer fire report
* Mexicana’s first E195-E2
* EASA’s take-off performance monitoring system (TOPMS) proposal
* Task & Purpose’s piece on squirrels at Minot Air Force Base

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss all that has happened in Middle East airspace over the past week—from the US attack on Iranian nuclear facilities and elaborate diversion flights to the Iranian retaliation against US bases in Qatar and the subsequent airspace restrictions to the fragile cease fire and the gradual opening of airways.
We also ponder why nearly two weeks after the crash of Air India flight 171, investigators have still not reviewed the data from the flight data recorders even as both were recovered just days after the crash. And the NTSB holds its probable cause board meeting for the mid-cabin exit door plug blowout aboard Alaska Airlines flight 1282, find that Boeing’s safety culture and the FAA’s lax oversight contributed to the door plug’s ejection from the aircraft as it passed 15,000 feet last January.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* The B-2 tanker diversion
* NTSB probable cause summary for Alaska 1282

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss the crash of Air India flight 171 shortly after take off from Ahmedabad last week. What we know, what we don’t know, and possible avenues of investigation. We also examine the situation in the Middle East to see what effects current hostilities between Iran and Israel are having on commercial aviation. And we dig into the order numbers from this week’s Paris Air Show.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Flightradar24 data regarding Air India 171
* Airspace closures in the Middle East
* Paris Air Show news round up

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Silver Airways ceases operations immediately and Qantas says subsidiary Jetstar Asia will wind down flights by the end of July. The NTSB releases the preliminary report on the American Airlines 737 fire in Denver. May was a big month for Boeing, with more than 300 orders, while Airbus recorded orders for precisely 0 aircraft. This month’s Paris Air Show has the potential to close the gap.
Southwest is looking at “monetizing its order book,” while American Airlines sends the wrong 787 to Naples. And Condor operates five flights in a failed attempt to get passengers from Zurich to Heraklion.
Note: this episode was recorded prior to the crash of Air India flight 171 on 12 June. Our discussion of the crash will be available in episode 325 next week.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Silver Airways ceases operations
* American Airlines 737 Denver Fire NTSB preliminary report
* US restricting aerospace component exports to China
* American Airlines sends the wrong 787 to Naples
* Condor’s five flights to nowhere, A320 D-AICA
* NTSB 3-day hearing scheduled for July 31-August 2

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Airbus’ Montreal final assembly line is invaded by a family of raccoons. Newark reopens its main runway a few days early as airlines and the FAA jostle over flight cuts. United and JetBlue announce their Blue Sky partnership, while the IATA annual general meeting generates announcements of its own. A Condor flight misses Munich’s curfew by mere seconds and Air India reveals how much flying around Pakistan is costing the airline.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Condor diversion due to missed curfew
* Global Airlines LinkedIn post addressing recent media

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason and back home from Stockholm and ready to take on the week’s news. The NTSB is out with a handful of reports, including details on the FedEx 767 bird strike in Newark, Frontier’s hard landing and go around in San Juan, and Alaska Airlines’ main landing gear collapse. We also discuss the crash of a Cessna Citation in San Diego last week.
Plus, Boeing says it has a fix for the 777X thrust link problem, which grounded the test fleet for months.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* FedEx 767 birdstrike preliminary report
* Frontier A321neo hard landing and go around
* Delta 717 nose gear collapse
* Delta 717 engine problems
* Alaska severe turbulence
* Alaska main landing gear collapse
* Rockwell Turbo Encabulator (original)

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

This week, Gabe Leigh joins Ian and Jason in Stockholm for a special episode of AvTalk. Gabe recounts his experience on the first Global Airlines revenue flight and we discuss the future prospects for the would-be, all-A380 airline. We also get into the interesting media relations strategy being pursued by Global Airlines CEO James Asquith.
We also cover Etihad’s aircraft order and surprise route announcement to Charlotte. Spanish investigators release their final report on a Lufthansa pilot’s incapacitation near Zaragoza last February. And the story of how the 747 deal between the US and Qatar unfolded gets murkier.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Gabe’s video review of the inaugural Global Airlines flight
* Etihad announces flights to Charlotte
* Spanish CIAI report on Lufthansa pilot incapacitation

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason are joined by resident numbers expert Gavin Werbeloff for the facts and figures behind some of the large aircraft we’ve seen this week. There are more changes coming to Newark as the FAA tries to prevent more air traffic control outages. And we dig in to the history of the 747-8I Qatar wants to gift the US and why any thought of quickly turning it into a temporary Air Force One is a flight of fancy.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* DOT’s new ATC outline
* FAA statements on Newark
* P4-HBJ 747-8KB(BBJ)
* Qatar orders up to 210 Boeing aircraft
* Organ transplant logistics (episode 198)
* JetBlue’s special Dunkin’ livery A320
* Emirates’ special Courier Express livery A380

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, we learn more about what happened at Newark last week, what is still causing dozens of daily cancellations, and what’s being done to mitigate the problem. We also discuss some of the ideas touted by Newark’s biggest user, United Airlines, to improve the situation. We get an update on the situation in India and Pakistan as tensions continue to rise and airlines are staying further away. Plus, just as things at Pratt and Whitney were looking up for the GTF engine, machinists are on strike, with a long work stoppage threatening to further disrupt an already strained supply chain.
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s AvTalk, Indian airlines lose access to Pakistani airspace and gain a massive fuel bill. A massive power outage in Spain and Portugal affects millions of passengers, but airports keep moving. Newark falls victim to equipment outages again as Congress proposes $15 billion to modernize air traffic control. And JetBlue and United are said to be in talks about a proposed partnership that could see United back at JFK, but what form that partnership takes long-term is in the hands of United CEO Scott Kirby. And another major aerospace manufacturer lays out its plans for dealing with tariffs.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Indian airlines are routing around Pakistan
* House Transport and Infrastructure Committee proposal for ATC modernization (relevant text begins on page 20)
* Reuters: JetBlue and United in talks over partnership
* Airbus’ announces agreement to acquire Spirit Aerosystems work packages
* Air India taxiway takeoff final report
* Jason’s 737-200 Rejected Takeoff

 
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, it’s hard numbers, euphemistic language, and a bit of planes on fire.
If all of the first quarter earnings reports could be summed up in a single headline, it would be: “Seeking stability in a fluid age of dynamically uncertain softening.” We review Q1 financials from Boeing, Southwest, and others to see how the aerospace industry’s largest players fared at the beginning of the year and what they think the rest of the year has in store.
The FAA announces a fast-tracking of the new NOTAM system, it is now supposed to be ready for operational use by September. A Delta A330 engine catches fire in Orlando and the evacuation raises some questions about slide deployment. And one undisclosed podcast listener has a bit of fun with a new domain name: meet UndisclosedAirlines.com.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Boeing Q1 results
* Southwest Q1 results
* RTX Q1 results
* GE Aerospace Q1 results
* Embraer Q1 backlog
* FAA NOTAM announcement

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss what’s known so far about the crash of a Bell 206 in the Hudson River last week. We also break down the sequence of events after the crash that led to the FAA issuing an emergency grounding order for the helicopter operator.
Also this week, more tariff impacts as China reportedly tells its airlines to stop taking delivery of Boeing aircraft, while airlines are getting creative with ways to get around the tariffs. Ian geeks out over Airbus’ performance improvement package for the A330neo that increases the aircraft’s efficiency at low speeds. And Air New Zealand just can’t catch a break as it continues to struggle with engine issues on its A320neo and 787 aircraft.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Playback of Bell 206 N216MH
* FAA statement on grounding New York Helicopter Charter

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Jason joins Ian in Chicago for a face to face conversation, which also means it’s a self-edited show this week.
The preliminary report on the Swiftair 737 crash in Vilnius looks to human factors as investigators probe how and why one of the aircraft’s hydraulic systems was shut off during the approach. Delta Air Lines is the first major US airline to report quarterly earnings this year and the statements from Delta CEO Ed Bastian do not paint a pretty picture, “With broad economic uncertainty around global trade, growth has largely stalled.”
Airline CEOs elsewhere lost their jobs this week, including at Air Baltic and Spirit Airlines. And lessors, airlines, and aircraft component specialists are ramping up their cannibalization of young aircraft in the face of supply constraints.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Swiftair 737 crash preliminary report
* Delta Air Lines Q1 2025 earnings
* Our previous conversations with former Air Baltic CEO Martin Gauss
* NTSB safety recommendation report on bannis latches

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Check back soon for a transcript of this episode.
 

On this episode of AvTalk, we learning all about long endurance gas balloons with a world record holder. We learn more about the erroneous TCAS alerts that plagued aircraft near DCA at the beginning of March and what the FAA is doing following a fist fight in the DCA air traffic control tower. Heathrow’s chief continues to defend the airport’s handling of the power outage two weeks ago. And Russian investigators release their final report on Aeroflot flight 1492, which suffered a hard landing and subsequent fire during a diversion back to Moscow in 2019.
What does it take to fly a gas balloon from Germany to Scotland? We climb into the basket with Kolja Packard and Wuzi Wagner of the Austria 2 Gas Balloon Team to learn all about long endurance gas ballooning, what makes it challenging, and how you keep busy for days at a time a few thousand feet in the air.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* FAA statement on changes at DCA air traffic control
* Final report on Aeroflot 1492
* Timelapse of Kolja and Wuzi’s flight from Germany to Scotland

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the lights are back on at Heathrow and investigation into what happened is in full swing. We discuss the Transport Safety Board of Canada’s preliminary report on the Endeavor Air accident in Toronto, including the sequence of events leading up the landing and some the challenges faced during the evacuation.
En route to Shanghai, a pilot discovers he’s forgotten his passport; and a Southwest Airlines crew forgets what a runway looks like and attempts to depart on a taxiway. It looks like Boeing is going to trial and Airbus is pushing ahead with hydrogen. And one restaurant gives Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary a taste of his own medicine.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* TSB report on Endeavor Air accident
* Michael O’Leary’s restaurant bill

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Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Chris Lomas fills in for a vacationing Jason. The FAA acts on the NTSB’s urgent safety recommendations in DC and reconfigures helicopter routes near DCA. An American Airlines 737 catches fire at the gate in Denver, leading to questions about evacuations when passengers are already deplaning. The NTSB issues its preliminary report on the runway incursion at Chicago-Midway. And Jazeera Airways finds out the hard way how important balloon insurance is.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* FAA’s airspace changes in DC area
* American Airlines flight 1006 playback
* Chicago-Midway runway incursion preliminary report

 
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the NTSB releases its preliminary report on the mid-air collision over the Potomac River. In addition to the report, the NTSB also issued a pair of urgent safety recommendations to the FAA regarding the helicopter routes in the Washington DC area. We also discuss the preliminary report from the NTSB on the crash of the Medevac Learjet 55 in Philadelphia.
Southwest Airlines this week announced a seismic shift in its strategy and culture as it will begin charging for checked bags in May. We discuss this and the other major changes coming to the airline. And Korean Air unveiled its new corporate identity included a revised livery.
Major airlines are banning lithium ion power banks, an Air India flight made a 10 hour flight to nowhere thanks to someone ruining the plumbing system, and there’s a man with a turtle in his pants.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* NTSB preliminary report and urgent safety recommendations regarding Washington DC mid-air collision
* Learjet 55 preliminary report
* Photos of the NTSB extracting Learjet 55 CVR tape
* Southwest’s presentation to investors elaborating on upcoming changes
* Korean Air’s new livery in the air
* Video of Korean Air new corporate identity design
* Air India’s clogged toilets
* Mr Turtle Pants

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, another round of tabloid journalism meets aviation incident as a FedEx bird strike and resulting engine fire lead to breathless headlines. Also this week, the FAA issues a set of Airworthiness directives aimed at the CFM56 engine nacelle, Boeing finishes rework on its 787 backlog, and Aer Lingus finally wins a 28 year old court case.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* FedEx 767 diversion playback
* FAA Airworthiness directive regarding CFM56 nacelle
* Canada TSB preliminary report on Air France A350 tail strike
* German lasers for smoother flight
* It’s-a me! Mario! (and friends)

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a tale of 3 go arounds. We first visit Chicago, where a Southwest pilot made the quick decision to go around as an unauthorized aircraft crossed the runway. Then we visit San Francisco where an Asiana Airlines A350 descended too low as it approached SFO and went around. And then we end up in Washington DC, where sometimes a go around is just a go around.
Also on this week’s episode, more than two dozen aviation industry groups are banding together to call for increased and regular funding of the FAA. ANA makes a surprise and surprising aircraft order. Russia’s government is passing a law to legalize the production of counterfeit aircraft parts. And it might be possible to spend 11 hours in a 737 MAX this summer thanks to Iberojet.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Midway go around ADS-B data + ATC audio
* Asiana low altitude alert and go around
* Industry group letter on FAA funding
* BBC article regarding a death on board

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, an Endeavor Air CRJ-900 ends up upside down in Toronto, but everyone on board makes it out safely. The NTSB provides a detailed update on the mid-air collision in Washington, including the agency’s focus on the helicopter’s altitude and the altitude the pilots believed they were at. We discuss the recent firings of probationary employees at the FAA and what effects this might have on the agency now and in the long term. And for the first time in the airline’s history (sort of), Southwest Airlines is conducting layoffs, with 15% of its corporate workforce being let go.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Endeavor Air crash in Toronto
* NTSB updates on DCA crash
* The Air Current article on FAA firings
* Crankyflier post on Southwest

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Bering Air Cessna 208 crashes near Nome, Alaska. Updates on the mid-air collision in Washington DC and what airspace changes may become permanent. New propulsion technology projects from major manufacturers are being pushed back 5-10 years. And we share the recipe for the ultimate inflight desert.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Bering Air C208 flight path
* Alaskan aviation safety expert Colleen Mondor
* GOL 737 and pick up truck damage
* Nolinor blended wing design

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, we review what we know so far about the mid-air collision between a US Army UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter and a PSA Airlines CRJ-700 in Washington DC, what we don’t know, and some of the avenues of inquiry investigators and authorities are following. We also discuss the crash of a Learjet 55 air ambulance shortly after takeoff near Philadelphia. And finally, we sort through the preliminary report on the crash of Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 near Aktau, Kazakhstan to begin to understand just what an incredible effort it was by the pilots to limp the E190 across the Caspian Sea.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Flight data and other helpful information regarding the crash in Washington DC
* Flight data regarding the crash near Philadelphia
* Flight data and the preliminary investigative report regarding Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this episode.

Note: this episode of AvTalk was recorded prior to the crash in Washington DC involving a PSA Airlines CRJ-700 and US military H-60 helicopter. We will have complete coverage of the accident and where the investigation stands on next week’s episode. For regular updates, please visit our blog post on the accident here.
On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Boom makes a boom for the first time, taking its XB-1 demonstrator aircraft beyond the speed of sound for the first time. The NTSB is investigating a United Airlines flight that experienced “unexpected aircraft movement” over the Ivory Coast. The aircraft diverted to Lagos where a handful of passengers and crew received medical attention. South Korean investigators have released their preliminary report. We discuss the report and which questions the it raises rather than answers. And elsewhere in South Korea an Air Busan A321 was severely damaged by a fire that broke out prior to the aircraft’s departure for Hong Kong.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Boom’s first supersonic flight
* United Airlines flight 613
* Jeju Air flight 2216 preliminary report
* Judgement in Air Canada gold heist case

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Jason journeys through the European fog for a very special trip to the beach. Snow hits the US Gulf Coast from Houston to New Orleans forcing the cancellation of thousands of flights. The Boeing 777X is flying again and the NTSB releases its final report on the United Airlines 767 hard landing. And on a HiFly A330 this week, a new passenger was added to the manifest mid-flight.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Jason’s video landing in Barra in the Twin Otter
* NTSB final report on United 767 hard landing
* Photos from HiFly’s baby (born) on board

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, TCAS once again ensures everyone goes home safely, this time avoiding a collision between a Delta A330 and United 737 in Phoenix. A Delta 757 suffers and engine failure on departure from Atlanta. Lufthansa could be in a bit of trouble as the European Commission says the airline must return to preferential pricing for Condor. The EC is also  investigating the airline’s transatlantic joint venture with United and Air Canada. And Air France has released its signature scent, AF001.
Helpful links for this week’s show

* TCAS at work in Phoenix
* Video of Delta 757 engine failure
* European Commission notice to Lufthansa
* Air France’s Signature Scent

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Pleach click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason are back with their first regular episode of 2025. We get an update on the investigations into the crashes of Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 and Jeju Air flight 2216. We take stock of Boeing’s progress toward a new safety culture one year after the Alaska Airlines 737-9 MAX door plug blowout. We discuss the preliminary report on the ground collision between a landing Japan Airlines A350 and Japan Coast Guard Dash 8. And the transition by Air Greenland from its former hub in Kangerlussuaq to the capital Nuuk is not without challenges.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* JTSB preliminary report on A350 and Dash 8 collision
* Crankyflier article on Condor’s changes
* Someone explain this window fire to us, please

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this special episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason discuss what we know so far about the crashes of an Azerbaijan Airlines E190 in Aktau, Kazakhstan and a Jeju Air 737 in Muan, South Korea.
This episode of AvTalk was first released as a video episode on our AvTalk Podcast YouTube channel. For the visual version of the episode, click the link in the show notes below or search AvTalk Podcast on YouTube. All of the visuals from Flightradar24 included in the video can be found on the Flightradar24 blog pages for the respective accidents linked in the show notes.

* Video version of the podcast on YouTube
* Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 crashes near Aktau, Kazakhstan
* Jeju Air flight 2216 crashes in Muan, South Korea

 
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.
 

On this episode of AvTalk, we look back at a trio of our favorite conversations from this past year. In 2024, we were fortunate to speak with experts from across the aviation industry. In this recap of the year, we revisit three conversations with people who helped us understand challenges facing the industry, what it takes to bring a new aircraft to life, and how its possible to seamlessly merge airplanes and Lord of the Rings.
Matt Thurber, AIN Media Group editor-in-chief — GPS interference
GPS interference, whether through jamming or spoofing, has risen dramatically over the past few years and the industry response has been limited. We talked with AIN Media Group editor-in-Chief Matt Thurber to learn how the aviation and navigation industries and approaching the challenges presented by GPS interference.
Gary O’Donnell, Airbus A321XLR head of program
Gary O’Donnell has been with the A321XLR program at Airbus from the beginning. Speaking to our Chris Lomas on the occasion of the aircraft’s certification by EASA, O’Donnell tells what it takes to get an aircraft from the drawing board to the skies.
Max Comer, Airplane facts with MAX
In perhaps the most fun conversation of the year, Ian speaks with Max Comer of Airplane Facts with Max about the meteoric rise in popularity of Max’s social media presence, how we creates his airplane facts videos, and why so many people are enamored with his content.
Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason take a deep breath and discuss the New Jersey drones. What are people claiming they’ve seen, why nearly all of the reports are just aircraft, and why you should never, never shine a laser or fire a gun at an airplane—identified or not.
Plus, AerLingus takes its first (and second) A321XLRs, Boeing restarts 767/777 production, and the FAA finalizes drug and alcohol testing for repair stations outside the US. And NASA completes the first aircraft accident investigation on another planet.
 
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* DHS, FBI, FAA & DoD Joint Statement on New Jersey drone sightings
* Statistics on laser incidents in New Jersey in December 2024
* FAA’s finalized drug and alcohol testing rule
* The first aircraft accident investigation on another planet
* Flying stinky pigs
* Busiest routes of 2024

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason are back from their travels and back in the studio for a full week’s worth of aviation news. We start with Boeing’s resumption of 737 production and a judge’s rejection of the plea deal negotiated by Boeing and the US Department of Justice. Then we head west for the first major moves by Alaska Airlines as it integrates Hawaiian Airlines into its operations.
And in safety news, investigators begin analyzing the black boxes of the crashed Swift Air 737. And the NTSB releases its final report on the inflight upset suffered by a Challenger 300 in 2023, which finds the pilots did not follow proper procedures at multiple points before and during the flight—all starting with an ill-timed delivery of ice.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* NTSB report on Challenger 300
* NTSB report on Southwest 737 vs Diamond DA40

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian is joined by Flightradar24 colleague Chris Lomas in Stockholm as Jason finishes his travels in Asia. In this news this week, a marriage proposal involving a helicopter and Flightradar24, Lufthansa’s stake in ITA Airways clears the final hurdle, Aeroflot takes its first wet lease, and a fire fighting Airbus A319 is in the works.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* A helicopter marriage proposal
* Instrument calibration flight patterns

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Jason is traveling in Japan and Ian is prepping his Thanksgiving Turkey. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to discuss. An Azimuth Airlines SuperJet caught fire after a hard landing in Antalya. A Swiftair 737-400 operating for DHL crashed 1.5km short of the runway in Vilnius, killing one of four crew members on board. And Emirates took delivery of its first A350, but the flight path left many scratching their heads.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Azimuth Airlines flight catches fire after hard landing
* Swiftair 737-400 crashes in Vilnius
* Emirates A350 delivery flight path
* UK AAIB report on Ryanair 737-8-200 MAX
* Etihad announces 10 new destinations
* Royal New Zealand Air Force’s first C-130 flight to Antarctica

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s AvTalk, severe turbulence leads to an inflight engine shut down on an SAS A330. A CargoJet 767 overruns the runway in Vancouver after a flap failure. A Southwest Airlines jet is struck by a bullet in Dallas. A Qantas A380 flew for a month with a tool in one of its engines. And hundreds of hamsters get loose on a TAP A321neo.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* SAS A330 encounters severe turbulence
* CargoJet 767 runway overrun in Vancouver
* ATSB Qantas A380 engine tool report
* Hamster plane

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s AvTalk, at least three aircraft are struck by bullets while trying to landing in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Spirit Airlines could soon file for bankruptcy after Frontier walks away from a potential merger. And Colombian cargo carrier Aerosucre has yet another close call, striking the ILS array at the end of the runway while trying to depart Bogota.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Spirit Airlines flight 951 hit by bullets
* FAA NOTAM restricting US flights in Haiti below 10,000 feet
* Aerosucre 727 strikes ILS array
* Apple AirTag find my bag coming soon
* 99% Invisible’s podcast on Spirit Halloween

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Boeing machinists in the pacific northwest ratify a new contract, ending a 53 day strike. We discuss what’s in the contract and where Boeing goes from here.
Spirit Aerosystems, the maker of 737 fuselages, says it may not have long as a “going concern.” Spirit Airlines will furlough hundreds more pilots next year as it continues searching for a path out of the financial hole it’s in. The Wall Street Journal reports that Russia is behind the series of parcel fires in air cargo shipments in Europe. Dublin’s passenger cap is on hold for now, Air Canada is bringing back a pair of 767 passenger jets, and airlines in the US must now refund you for significantly delayed or canceled flights if you choose not to fly. And we pay tribute to Ben Baldanza, former Spirit Airlines CEO and US ultra low cost carrier pioneer, who died this week at the age of 62 after a battle with ALS.
Helpful links for this week’s show

* The machinists new contract compared to previous contract
* Wall Street Journal report on incendiary devices in air cargo
* Air Canada 767 parked in the desert

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we welcome Max Comer, and airline mechanic and the man behind social media sensation Airplane Facts with Max, which compares and contrasts interesting aviation information… and the works of JRR Tolkien. Also this week, the NTSB releases its preliminary report on the Frontier Airlines flight that made an emergency landing in Las Vegas last month. WestJet is sending a trio of hail-damaged 737s to the desert. Riyadh Air places a major order for its narrow body fleet. And the final report on the crash of MS804 is out—eight years after the accident and with two starkly different conclusions.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Airplane facts with Max — where you can find Max’s content
* Frontier emergency landing preliminary report
* MS804 final report

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Boeing announces a $6 billion third quarter loss, while the company’s striking machinists reject the latest contract offer, sending negotiators back to work. A close call in Austin as TCAS comes to the rescue, while Indian airlines deal with a spate of hoax bomb threats. Frontier and Spirit could revive merger talks and it was a terrible week to taxi an aircraft at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Boeing’s third quarter earnings
* Boeing CEO statement on third quarter earnings
* TCAS saves the day in Austin
* Indian airlines facing hoax bomb threats
* ULD container wedged in Japan Airlines 747, 2009
* FAA “powered lift” final rule and Medium post
* Final Qantas 717 flight
* Final CSA Czech Airlines flight

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Boeing announces layoffs affecting 17,000 employees and the sunset of the 767 program. The 777X is delayed until at least 2026 and airlines are having trouble getting ahold of aircraft that are already certified. This is leading to some airlines refurbishing already well-worn aircraft and others canceling flights and routes.
The US DOT OIG says the FAA (acronym much?) isn’t capable of effectively regulating Boeing. Sri Lankan investigators are probing a bizarre incident in which the captain allegedly locked the first officer out of the flight deck. And the ARJ21-700 is now the C909.
Helpful links for this week’s episode

* Boeing CEO letter to the company
* US DOT OIG Report on FAA oversigt of Boeing
* ARJ21 > C909

Thank you for listening!
Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.