The Final Flight: Only 22 Boeing 727s Remain in the Skies Worldwide

El Al suspends all its flights to Russia indefinitely due to irregularities and “events” in Russian airspace. The company is expected to evaluate the situation over the coming week to decide whether to resume its connection with Moscow or not.
The measure taken by the Israeli flag carrier is linked to the recent accident in Kazakhstan, where an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer E190 crashed near Aktau Airport. The incident resulted in 38 fatalities, including crew members, and 29 survivors with injuries of varying severity.
So far, the leading hypothesis regarding the J2 8243 flight is that it was shot down by a missile with a proximity fuse, which struck the rear control surfaces, causing the aircraft to lose control. This was confirmed early this morning by the Azerbaijani government in a preliminary report, which suspects the projectile might be of Russian origin.
<a href="https://www.elal.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">El Al </a>operates five weekly flights between Tel Aviv (TLV) and Domodedovo International Airport (DME) in Russia&#8217;s capital. The route is serviced with a Boeing 737-900ER on a daily basis from Monday to Friday. The company will notify its passengers about the status of their flights to allow them to reschedule or cancel their trips.

El Al Halts All Flights to Russia Indefinitely Amid Airspace Safety Concerns

Qantas maintained its lead over Virgin Australia as the most reliable airline group in Australia regarding on-time performance, although the smaller carrier is canceling significantly fewer flights.
The latest BITRE data published by the Department of Transport for November also reveals that the industry as a whole is still lagging behind long-term averages in terms of delays as post-COVID-19 issues persist, according to a publication by Aviation Australia.
Meanwhile, regional airline Skytrans continued to outperform its larger rivals, with an average of 98 percent for on-time arrivals and departures.
<h4>On-time arrivals (average in percentage)</h4>
<ul>
<li>Qantas and QantasLink – 68.0</li>
<li>Virgin Australia and VARA – 62.7</li>
<li>Skytrans – 97.7</li>
<li>Hinterland – 90.9</li>
<li>QantasLink – 73.1</li>
<li>Rex Airlines – 72.6</li>
<li>Jetstar – 68.0</li>
<li>VARA – 66.7</li>
<li>Virgin Australia – 62.6</li>
<li>Qantas – 60.3</li>
</ul>
<h4>On-time departures (average in percentage)</h4>
<ul>
<li>Qantas and QantasLink – 68.2</li>
<li>Virgin Australia and VARA – 64.0</li>
<li>Skytrans – 97.7</li>
<li>Hinterland – 93.0</li>
<li>Rex Airlines – 76.2</li>
<li>QantasLink – 73.3</li>
<li>Jetstar – 66.2</li>
<li>Virgin Australia – 64.1</li>
<li>VARA – 61.1</li>
<li>Qantas – 60.4</li>
</ul>
<h4>Cancellations (average in percentage)</h4>
<ul>
<li>QantasLink – 3.6</li>
<li>Qantas – 3.1</li>
<li>Hinterland – 2.8</li>
<li>Rex Airlines – 2.5</li>
<li>Jetstar – 2.4</li>
<li>Virgin Australia – 1.7</li>
<li>VARA – 1.3</li>
<li>Skytrans – 1.3</li>
</ul>
“For November 2024, on-time performance across all routes operated by participating airlines (Hinterland, Jetstar, Qantas, QantasLink, Rex Airlines, Skytrans, Virgin Australia, and Virgin Australia Regional Airlines) averaged 68.4 percent for on-time arrivals and 69.0 percent for on-time departures,” the report states.
“The cancellation rate for the month was 2.6 percent. The equivalent figures for November 2023 were 64.1 percent for on-time arrivals, 65.9 percent for on-time departures, and 3.7 percent for cancellations«.
“This month, the on-time arrival figure was below the long-term average for all routes (80.7%), and the on-time departure figure was also below the long-term average (81.9%). The cancellation rate was above the long-term average of 2.2%.”

Qantas Leads On-Time Performance in Australia Despite Virgin’s Lower Cancellation Rate

The recent transfer of two aircraft from Nigeria to Iran has raised serious concerns within the international community due to the apparent violation of sanctions against Iran.
As reported by Business Day, the aircraft, an Airbus A340-600 registered as 5N-AAM and a Boeing 737-300 registered as 5N-YSM, were allegedly smuggled to Mahan Air by Azman Air without the knowledge of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, stated that the agency intends to contact the Civil Aviation Authority of the Islamic Republic of Iran (CAA.IRI) to clarify the status of the aircraft.
Achimugu also mentioned that the NCAA will investigate Azman Air for the alleged deactivation of aircraft transponders, although such an action did not take place under Nigerian jurisdiction, according to a report by <a href="https://aeroin.net/avioes-que-desligaram-o-transponder-para-sumir-no-ira-preocupam-autoridades-nigerianas/">Aeroin</a>.
The incident highlights a concerning possible circumvention of international restrictions by Mahan Air, representing an evasion of sanctions imposed on Iran. The aircraft, now stored in Tehran and Mehrabad, were sold without regard for existing international sanctions.
Reports from the Middle East Forum Observer indicated that Azman Air is just one of several companies involved in sanction-evasion operations across the African continent.
Companies like Macka Invest in Gambia and PT Asia Global Airlines in Indonesia have assisted Iranian airlines linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in acquiring aircraft, registering them in countries such as the Republic of Congo, Burundi, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Gambia before smuggling them into Iran.
The A340-600 model is particularly attractive to Mahan Air due to its ease of maintenance, partly because of its use of Rolls Royce Trent 556-61 engines, which are easier to maintain compared to the U.S.-manufactured General Electric CFM56-5C4 engines used in smaller variants of the A340.
This dynamic reflects an ongoing challenge for the U.S. intelligence community, which needs to strengthen surveillance of aircraft movements in sub-Saharan Africa to prevent future sanctions evasions. The situation underscores the complexity of smuggling networks and the need for enhanced vigilance and international cooperation to reinforce sanctions enforcement.

Two aircraft illegally transferred from Nigeria to Iran by turning off their transponder

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines recently announced changes to its intercontinental operations for the summer 2025 season in the northern hemisphere, starting from March 30, 2025.
These changes include the route from Amsterdam to Rio de Janeiro (Galeão), as reported in the latest update on December 22 by the associated media outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/klm-faz-alteracoes-em-sua-operacao-para-2025-incluindo-nos-voos-ao-rio-de-janeiro/?amp">Aeroin</a>.
Initially, from March 30 to June 1, 2025, the flight frequency will be adjusted, operating 3 to 4 times per week with the Boeing 787-10, replacing the Boeing 777-200ER. During the period from March 30 to May 5, 2025, the service will be reduced from daily to six weekly flights.
From June 2, 2025, the route will return to daily operations with the Boeing 777-200ER. Originally, the route was scheduled to be operated daily by the 787-10, replacing the 777-200ER/787-9, with the 777-200ER planned to operate from July 20 to September 20, 2025.

Boeing 787-10 to Replace 777-200ER on KLM’s Amsterdam–Rio Route in Early 2025

The Learjet 23 marked a milestone in commercial aviation 60 years ago when, on October 13, 1964, its first aircraft was delivered to Chemical and Industrial Corporation in Cincinnati, Ohio. This aircraft, known as N200Y and being the third one produced, was groundbreaking as the first jet specifically designed for executive use.
As reported by Aviacionline, the delivery took place with an inaugural flight from Dwight D. Eisenhower Airport in Wichita to Lunken Airport in Cincinnati, marking the beginning of a new era in private aviation.
Bill Lear, the visionary behind the Learjet, not only designed an advanced aircraft that left a lasting legacy but also revolutionized the way the executive aviation market was conceived. His vision extended to the development of the private air transport market, changing the way business was conducted in the skies, as reported today by <a href="https://aeroin.net/jato-learjet-23-divisor-de-aguas-na-aviacao-executiva-global-completa-60-anos-da-entrada-em-servico/?amp">Aeroin</a>.
The Learjet 23-003, used by businessman Herbert Hamilton, became a centerpiece of his corporate structure for more than 30 years.
The aircraft was a symbol of innovation, not only because of its engineering but also as part of Hamilton&#8217;s business life, where his family played a significant role.
Patricia Hamilton, Herbert&#8217;s daughter, and her brother Jim obtained their pilot licenses, breaking barriers as one of the few groups of young people piloting corporate aircraft at the time.
After many years sitting outdoors and inactive, Learjet 23-003 has found a new chapter in its history thanks to the efforts of the Classic Lear Jet Foundation (CLJF). Founded by current and former employees dedicated to preserving the Lear Jet heritage and the city of Wichita, the foundation acquired the aircraft with the goal of restoring it to its former glory and bringing it back to Wichita.
The restoration is more than a tribute to an iconic aircraft; it is a testament to the lasting impact of Bill Lear, who not only innovated in commercial aviation but also made significant contributions such as the development of high-fidelity audio systems like the Lear Jet Stereo 8.

60 Years of the Learjet 23: The Pioneer of Executive Aviation

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) is implementing new rules requiring airlines to train employees in handling passengers with disabilities to ensure safe and dignified treatment during air travel.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced these new protections for individuals who use wheelchairs, responding to a series of reported violations by airlines failing to comply with existing laws.
DOT data indicates that one out of every 100 wheelchairs or scooters transported on domestic flights ends up damaged, delayed, or lost, reported <a href="https://aeroin.net/eua-implementa-regras-e-exige-que-aereas-treinem-funcionarios-no-manejo-de-pessoas-com-deficiencia/?amp">Aeroin</a>.
The new rules will require airlines to assist passengers with mobility issues, ensuring that this does not put them at risk of injury. Additionally, employees must receive annual hands-on training to assist passengers with reduced mobility or handle their wheelchairs or scooters.
Airlines will also be required to return any assistive device in the same condition in which it was received. Otherwise, it will be presumed that the airline has violated the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Furthermore, companies will be responsible for informing passengers before disembarkation if their wheelchairs or scooters have been unloaded.
These measures are part of other DOT actions led by Buttigieg to protect the rights of passengers with disabilities. In October 2024, the DOT imposed a $50 million fine on American Airlines for severe violations of laws protecting passengers with disabilities.
Moreover, the DOT introduced rules to require airplane bathrooms to be accessible for individuals with disabilities and launched the Air Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights.
The effective compliance with these new rules will begin between January 16, 2025, and June 17, 2026, depending on the specific rule. The primary goal is to enhance the travel experience for passengers with disabilities, ensuring that airlines and their employees are well-prepared to provide consistent and respectful service.
Additionally, innovations already adopted by some companies, such as United Airlines, which introduced new features to ensure wheelchair users are properly accommodated, exemplify the positive efforts underway.
Finally, the new regulations will also establish improved standards for onboard wheelchairs, which must be met by aircraft with more than 60 seats by October 2, 2031.

DOT Implements New Rules to Protect Passengers with Disabilities in Air Travel

A historic flight, operated by an exclusively female crew, landed in the holy city of Mashhad, Iran, last Sunday. The flight, conducted on an Aseman Airlines Fokker 100 and piloted by Shahrzad Shams, one of the country’s pioneering aviators, carried 110 passengers on a journey significant for both the aviation sector and Iranian society.
Dubbed “Iran Banoo” (“Lady of Iran”), the flight marked the first occasion that an air journey to Mashhad, home to the revered Imam Reza sanctuary, was staffed exclusively by female crew and passengers, as reported by international media outlets.
This event coincided with the anniversary of the birth of Fatima al-Zahra, daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, a date celebrated as National Women’s/Mother’s Day in Iran. The initiative highlights the growing participation of women in Iran’s aviation sector, although the country remains in a state of alarm. Despite progress, women pilots remain a minority, according to the affiliated outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/voo-historico-so-com-mulheres-a-bordo-aterrissou-na-cidade-sagrada-de-mashhad-no-ira/?amp">Aeroin</a>.
The progress of women in this field is exemplified by the career of Shahrzad Shams, recognized for her groundbreaking role as one of Iran’s first female pilots. This achievement follows the legacy of previous milestones, such as those of Neshat Jahandari and Forouz Firouzi, who made history in 2019 as the first women to operate a commercial flight in the Islamic Republic.
In a different context, Iran also recently witnessed the arrest of 27-year-old singer Parastoo Ahmady following a virtual YouTube concert where she performed without a hijab, defying the country’s strict moral laws. The concert, broadcast without dress restrictions, quickly drew public attention despite YouTube being restricted in Iran.
This event unfolds amid ongoing discussions about social regulations in the country, particularly after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s statements promising that the morality police would no longer “harass” women, delivered in a speech marking the second anniversary of Mahsa Amini’s death in custody.
These events reflect both the progress and current challenges within Iranian society, where issues of gender and individual freedoms remain central topics of transformation and debate.

Historic All-Female Crew Flight Lands in Mashhad, Iran

The International Airlines Group (IAG), owner of airlines such as British Airways and Iberia, is in negotiations with Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, with the aim of offering ultra-fast Wi-Fi to its passengers.
Annalisa Gigante, the group’s Head of Innovation, mentioned in an interview with Bloomberg that IAG is also considering Amazon’s Project Kuiper as a possible alternative.
This move highlights the growing adoption of in-flight Internet technology provided by low-Earth orbit satellites, an area where Starlink has excelled. Starlink’s expanding satellite network enables Internet access in remote areas and has become an attractive option for both the aviation and maritime industries, positioning itself as a direct competitor to traditional providers like Viasat and Gogo.
In recent times, several major airlines, including United Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Air New Zealand, have announced agreements with Starlink to enhance onboard connectivity, reported <a href="https://aeroin.net/iag-dono-da-british-airways-e-iberia-negocia-com-a-starlink-de-elon-musk-para-internet-mais-rapida-em-voos/?amp">Aeroin</a>.
Recently, Air France also announced plans to implement Starlink technology in its aircraft next year. airBaltic is expected to be the first European airline to offer Starlink Internet onboard.
Currently, the in-flight Internet service for IAG’s aircraft is provided by Inmarsat, which was acquired by Viasat last year.

IAG in Talks with Elon Musk’s Starlink for High-Speed Satellite Internet Onboard

The Ministry of Transport of South Korea stated that it will launch an awareness campaign on the use of seat belts in aviation to prevent turbulence-related accidents during flights, amidst the ongoing end-of-year travel season.
The campaign, which will run from Wednesday until February 2, aims to raise awareness about the dangers of turbulence during flights and the importance of wearing seat belts.
Actor Kim Kwang-kyu and the girl group CLASS:y will participate in campaign advertisements and songs, which will be displayed on digital screens in major airports and public transportation screens, including KTX bullet trains.
Over the past three years, air turbulence accounted for 111 aviation accidents worldwide, representing 61.7 percent of the total 180 accidents, according to the Ministry.
South Korean airlines reported 14,820 air turbulence incidents in the first six months of this year, accounting for 72 percent of last year’s total.

South Korea Launches Campaign to Raise Awareness on Seat Belt Use Amid Turbulence Risks

Colombia reaches the historic figure of 6.2 million non-resident tourists in 2024, surpassing the initial goal of 6 million projected for this year. The milestone was celebrated at <a href="https://eldorado.aero/">El Dorado Airport</a>, where the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism gave a symbolic welcome to the 6.2 millionth tourist.
Minister Luis Carlos Reyes Hernández highlighted that this achievement is the result of a focus on sustainable and community tourism, and the promotion of unique experiences that emphasize the country&#8217;s natural and cultural richness and resilience.
According to figures from the Ministry based on data from Civil Aviation and Migration Colombia, the country received 5.3 million non-resident visitors up to October 2024, a 9.4% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth significantly surpasses previous records and positions Colombia as a key destination in South America.
In comparison, in 2023, the country received 5.5 million non-resident tourists, which already represented a 26.1% increase compared to 2022. These results reflect the sustained success of the tourism strategy under the #ElPaísDeLaBelleza label.
The 2022-2026 Tourism Sector Plan is fundamental to this success. This plan focuses on enhancing emerging destinations like the Colombian Pacific and La Guajira, as well as strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Juan Manrique Camargo, pointed out that tourism in Colombia is transforming into a proposal of integral experiences and community engagement, characteristics that make it attractive to international visitors.
The 6.2 millionth tourist arrived in Colombia from São Paulo (Brazil) on a flight with <a href="https://www.avianca.com">Avianca,</a> whose extensive network of international destinations is key to connecting the country with the world. Felipe Andrés Gómez, Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Avianca, emphasized that more than 90% of tourists visiting Colombia travel by plane.
<h2>Domestic tourism also celebrates</h2>
In addition to international tourism, the growth of domestic tourism is remarkable. According to the Internal Tourism Expenditure Survey (EGIT), 7.8% of Colombians made recreational trips in 2024, an increase of 0.8% compared to 2023. Air transport was consolidated as the primary means, with a 56.6% increase.
<figure id="attachment_349901" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-349901" style="width: 1190px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-349901 size-large" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-12.11.56-PM-1351x900.jpeg" alt="Felipe Andrés Gómez, Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Avianca" width="1200" height="799" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-12.11.56-PM-1351x900.jpeg 1351w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-12.11.56-PM-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-12.11.56-PM-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-12.11.56-PM-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-12.11.56-PM-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-12.11.56-PM-150x100.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-349901" class="wp-caption-text">Felipe Andrés Gómez, Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Avianca</figcaption></figure>
&nbsp;

Colombia Welcomes a Record 6.2 Million Tourists in 2024: Breaking Projections

LATAM Airlines Group announced the appointment of Ricardo Bottas Dourado as its new Vice President of Finance (Chief Financial Officer, CFO), who will assume the position starting January 2025, subject to the migration procedures required by Chilean authorities.
According to the company, Bottas, a Brazilian national, has over 20 years of experience in the financial sector, holding strategic roles such as auditing, controlling, treasury, financial planning, mergers and acquisitions, and investor relations. The group highlighted that these credentials, along with his ability to lead organizations in competitive and complex environments, were key to his selection.
LATAM also emphasized the executive&#8217;s experience in implementing growth strategies and his deep understanding of the financial market, aspects it considers fundamental to addressing the challenges of the aviation sector in the future.
<figure id="attachment_349918" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-349918" style="width: 974px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ricardo-Bottas-CFO-LATAM.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349918" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ricardo-Bottas-CFO-LATAM.jpg" alt="" width="984" height="691" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ricardo-Bottas-CFO-LATAM.jpg 984w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ricardo-Bottas-CFO-LATAM-300x211.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ricardo-Bottas-CFO-LATAM-768x539.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ricardo-Bottas-CFO-LATAM-150x105.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 984px) 100vw, 984px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-349918" class="wp-caption-text">Ricardo Bottas Dourado</figcaption></figure>

LATAM Airlines Appoints Brazilian Executive Ricardo Bottas as Chief Financial Officer

51,310,000 passengers traveled through Colombia&#8217;s airports between January and November 2024, representing a growth of 15.1% compared to the same period in 2023. This increase consolidates air transport as a strategic pillar for the country&#8217;s connectivity and development.
In cargo transportation, between January and November 2024, the sector moved 861,072 tons, reflecting a growth of 9.2% compared to the same period of the previous year. These results confirm the importance of air transport in the national and international logistics chain. Over the past twelve months, a historical record was set in passenger mobility, with a total of 56,193,000 people using the country&#8217;s airports.
Given the expected increase in passenger demand during the year-end holiday season, the <a href="https://www.aerocivil.gov.co/">Civil Aviation Authority</a> launched the operation Christmas Mission. This strategic plan, effective between November 2024 and January 2025, coordinates efforts among airlines, operators, and authorities to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations.
During a recent meeting in Bogotá, representatives of the aviation sector outlined key measures such as slot management, improvements in air traffic services, and infrastructure advancements. Airports benefiting from these interventions include El Dorado in Bogotá, San Andrés, Cúcuta, and Arauca.
According to Colonel Juan José López, Director of Air Navigation Operations, the goal of Christmas Mission is to ensure that passengers and operators can move smoothly and safely during one of the busiest air traffic seasons of the year.
<section>
<h2>Projections and recommendations for travelers</h2>
The Civil Aviation Authority’s Analytics Office projects that more than 3.2 million passengers will travel through the country&#8217;s airports during the year-end school break, with domestic destinations such as Cartagena, San Andrés, and the Coffee Region, and international destinations like Spain, the United States, and Cancún among the most popular.
The Civil Aviation Authority also recommends that travelers stay informed about airport statuses through official channels, verify flight schedules with airlines, and ensure they have the required documentation, especially for those traveling with minors.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-137292" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/el-dorado-bogota-colombia-aeropuerto-mostradores-check-in-pasajeros-generica.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="844" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/05/el-dorado-bogota-colombia-aeropuerto-mostradores-check-in-pasajeros-generica.jpg 1500w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/05/el-dorado-bogota-colombia-aeropuerto-mostradores-check-in-pasajeros-generica-300x169.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/05/el-dorado-bogota-colombia-aeropuerto-mostradores-check-in-pasajeros-generica-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/05/el-dorado-bogota-colombia-aeropuerto-mostradores-check-in-pasajeros-generica-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" />
</section>

Colombia Airports Break Records: Over 51 Million Passengers in 2024

The air route between Hong Kong and Taipei has regained its position as the world’s busiest international connection. According to OAG data for 2024, this route has reclaimed the top spot, surpassing the connection between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, which led the ranking last year but now stands in fourth place.
This return to the lead comes after five years, driven by the easing of COVID-19-related restrictions, which remained in effect in the region until the end of 2022.
With an impressive total of 6.8 million seats offered, the Hong Kong-Taipei route experienced a 48% increase in seat capacity in 2024 compared to 2023, reflecting significant growth in air traffic as the region recovers from pandemic-related limitations.
In a ranking dominated mostly by Asian routes, the sole predominantly European exception in the top 10 international is the connection between New York-JFK and London-Heathrow, which recorded over 4 million seats in the same year, as reported by our partner outlet, <a href="https://aeroin.net/rota-hong-kong-taipei-retoma-lideranca-como-voo-internacional-mais-movimentado-do-mundo-veja-lista/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AEROIN</a>.
<a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/rutas-internacionales-con-mas-movimiento-2024.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-349686" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/rutas-internacionales-con-mas-movimiento-2024.jpg" alt="" width="1536" height="651" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-internacionales-con-mas-movimiento-2024.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-internacionales-con-mas-movimiento-2024-300x127.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-internacionales-con-mas-movimiento-2024-768x326.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-internacionales-con-mas-movimiento-2024-150x64.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px" /></a>
Regarding domestic routes, Seoul Gimpo – Jeju continues to be the busiest, with 14.2 million seats available in 2024. This connection, linking Seoul’s second busiest airport with the popular Jeju Island, operates approximately one hundred round-trip flights daily.
It is worth noting that nine of the world’s ten busiest flight routes are Asian, with the only exception being the domestic connection between Melbourne and Sydney in Australia, which ranks fifth.
<a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/rutas-domesticas-con-mas-movimiento-2024.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-349685" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/rutas-domesticas-con-mas-movimiento-2024.jpg" alt="" width="1536" height="642" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-domesticas-con-mas-movimiento-2024.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-domesticas-con-mas-movimiento-2024-300x125.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-domesticas-con-mas-movimiento-2024-768x321.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/rutas-domesticas-con-mas-movimiento-2024-150x63.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px" /></a>
This return to high-capacity operations in Asia signals a robust recovery of the aviation sector in the region after years of challenges imposed by the pandemic. The dominance of Asian routes in the rankings of the busiest connections, both international and domestic, underscores the continent’s significance in global air traffic.

Hong Kong–Taipei Reclaims Title as World’s Busiest Air Route in 2024

The ongoing issues with British Airways&#8217; (BA) Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet have forced the airline to suspend its flights to Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates, as the popular connection to the Middle East will be removed from the airline&#8217;s network for the summer 2025 season.
British Airways had relaunched the London-Heathrow-Abu Dhabi route in April after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the company operates the route with a daily flight using the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
According to London Air Travel, British Airways will suspend its direct flight to Abu Dhabi for the entire summer 2025 season, which runs from March 30 to October 25, 2025. The company stated that it has been forced to cut several routes due to persistent issues with the Rolls-Royce Trent engines powering its fleet of 787 Dreamliners, <a href="https://aeroin.net/em-meio-a-crise-do-boeing-787-abu-dhabi-entra-na-lista-de-cortes-da-ba/">Aeroin</a> reported.
These reliability issues require engine maintenance earlier than expected, and supply chain challenges have exacerbated the situation, leaving aircraft grounded for much longer than planned, according to Paddle Your Own Kanoo.
British Airways tried to maintain its schedule by operating older Boeing 777s more frequently, but since the Rolls-Royce engine problems remain unresolved, the airline needed to allocate time for maintenance of these aircraft.
In November, the airline stated that problems with the Dreamliners were the reason for indefinitely suspending two popular routes between London Heathrow and Bahrain and Kuwait. Following public outcry, British Airways partially reversed this decision and will continue to operate three weekly flights to Bahrain at the start of the summer 2025 season.
Additionally, the airline will withdraw from Dallas-Fort Worth at the end of March 2025, but capacity will be absorbed by American Airlines, its partner in the transatlantic joint venture. At the same time, British Airways will reduce flights to Miami, has already suspended the route to Beijing, and has decreased its offerings to Hong Kong.
Last week, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned that supply chain issues had caused a 30% drop in new aircraft deliveries compared to a peak of 1,813 units in 2018.
The backlog of undelivered orders has reached an unprecedented figure of 17,000 aircraft, meaning airlines are operating fleets with a much higher average age than in previous years. If the delivery rate does not improve, IATA estimates it will take 14 years to clear this backlog of unfulfilled orders.

British Airways Halts Abu Dhabi Flights Amid Boeing 787 Dreamliner Issues

The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a directive prohibiting drones from flying above 400 feet in various cities across New Jersey, a decisive measure in response to numerous reports of drone sightings throughout the month.
This restriction will remain in effect until January 17 and covers nearly two dozen cities, including well-known locations such as Jersey City, Harrison, Edison, Bayonne, and Camden.
The ban is the result of an investigation led by the FBI, which has received thousands of tips as federal, state, and local authorities push for more information on the origin and motivation behind the unauthorized flights.
The measure specifically pertains to drones flying within one nautical mile of the designated airspace for each location, with the possibility of employing «lethal force» if they pose an «imminent security threat,” reported <a href="https://aeroin.net/faa-impoe-proibicao-de-drones-em-multiplas-cidades-de-nova-jersey-apos-relatos-de-avistamentos/">Aeroin</a>.
<h2>Affected Cities</h2>
The affected cities in northern New Jersey include Cedar Grove, Bridgewater, North Brunswick, Metuchen, South Brunswick, Edison, Branchburg, Sewaren, Jersey City, Harrison, Hudson County, Elizabeth, Bayonne, Clifton, and Kearny.
In the state&#8217;s central region, Hamilton in Mercer County is affected, while in the south, Burlington, Evesham, Camden, Gloucester City, Westampton, Winslow, and Hancocks Bridge in Salem County fall under the prohibition.
The directive predominantly covers central areas around critical infrastructure, such as electrical substations, as well as strategic locations like Port of Kearny and the airspace surrounding military facilities, including Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and major transport hubs, such as Newark Liberty International Airport.
The order warns that pilots who disregard national security requirements may be intercepted, detained, and interviewed by federal, state, or local authorities. The severity of these measures reflects the security concerns raised by authorities regarding the increasing use of drones in sensitive areas.

FAA Implements 400-Foot Drone Ban Across Key New Jersey Cities Amid Safety Concerns

The National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) approved financial support of R$ 185 million for the Concessionaire of Natal International Airport (RN), along with two other investors from the capital markets, who contributed an additional R$ 75 million through a public offering of incentivized bonds.
Coordinated by the Bank, the total financing of R$ 260 million will be used to support the expansion, maintenance, and operation of the infrastructure of Natal International Airport, one of the main gateways for passengers and visitors to the Northeast.
The airport was Brazil’s first federal airport concession, auctioned in 2011, won by the Argentine consortium Inframerica Concessionária do Aeroporto de São Gonçalo do Amarante S.A., which returned the concession to the government in 2020, according to <a href="https://aeroin.net/bndes-da-credito-de-r-185-milhoes-para-o-desenvolvimento-do-aeroporto-de-natal/#google_vignette">Aeroin</a>.
<h4>For 30 years</h4>
Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Natal S.A., a company of the Swiss group Flughafen Zurich AG, which operates other airports worldwide, including Zurich in Switzerland, as well as airports in Brazil and Latin America, will operate the Natal airport terminal for 30 years after winning the re-auction in 2023.
With a capacity for 6 million passengers per year, the airport currently operates with an annual flow of approximately 2.3 million users. In 2024, the concessionaire committed R$ 33 million for infrastructure improvements, security, commercial areas, information technologies, and passenger experience.
Improvements were also made in air conditioning, cleaning, and restoration in the terminal, as well as the installation of free and unlimited 5G. Additionally, sustainability works were carried out, increasing landfill waste diversion from 15% to 85%.
<h4>Until December 2026</h4>
The project supported by the incentivized bonds is expected to be completed by December 2026, with a total investment of R$ 274 million by the end of the concession. Attracting cargo and passenger routes, especially international ones, is part of the concessionaire’s business plan, which aims to boost tourism in Rio Grande do Norte. The development of new areas of activity is being carried out in collaboration with the state government.
“The airport will have greater operational capacity, both for cargo and passengers. The expectation is that the entire logistics of the state postal service will come here. The company also announced direct flights from Santiago to Rio Grande do Norte. Next week, BNDES technicians will begin contracting Porto Industria Verde, which can bring significant investment and usher in the green industry of the future,” announced BNDES president Aloizio Mercadante.
“It will drive the development of Rio Grande do Norte through tourism, which represents around 10% of the state’s GDP. BNDES financing is highly desirable because the airport has immense capacity. Another very successful partnership with the federal government,” celebrated the governor of Rio Grande do Norte, Fátima Bezerra.

BNDES Approves R$ 185 Million for Natal International Airport Expansion and Development

Activists from the environmental organization Greenpeace took direct action against KLM at Schiphol Airport, expressing their discontent with the airline’s contribution to environmental pollution.
According to Luchtvaartnieuws, the activists hung a large banner on an advertising column with the message «KLM, you’re flying beyond all climate limits», reported the associated outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/ativistas-climaticos-protestam-contra-os-voos-muito-curtos-operados-pela-companhia-holandesa-klm/">Aeroin</a>.
<h4>Pressure on KLM</h4>
This act is part of an ongoing Greenpeace campaign to pressure KLM into reducing its short-haul operations within Europe, claiming that the company is the biggest polluter in the Dutch aviation industry.
Greenpeace campaign leader Maarten de Zeeuw harshly criticized KLM for, in his view, failing to adequately take responsibility for combating the climate crisis.
“KLM is on a collision course with the climate and, amidst the climate crisis, seeks to intensify its flight operations and pollution. Despite promoting narratives about sustainable fuels and greener aircraft, the truth is that flying less is the only way to significantly reduce pollution,” stated De Zeeuw.
<h4>Cancel short flights</h4>
Greenpeace is pressuring KLM to cancel short flights, such as those to Brussels, Paris, and London, arguing that these routes are unnecessary and can easily be replaced by train travel, which has a significantly lower environmental impact.
The organization accused KLM of resisting the necessary process of reducing operations at Schiphol Airport, which is crucial for addressing the climate crisis. This action takes place in the context of broader debates on the need to scale back operations at Schiphol.
Recently, Transport Minister Barry Madlener announced plans to limit the number of flights at Schiphol to a maximum of 478,000 flights per year. However, Greenpeace argues that this target is still too high and calls for stricter measures.

Commercial Aviation