GOL Linhas Aéreas has announced the addition of new routes and an increase in seat capacity on its flights between Brazil and Argentina. Key updates include the launch of a seasonal route to Bariloche (BRC) for the winter season and the resumption of direct flights between Córdoba (COR) and São Paulo/Guarulhos (GRU) starting in April.Currently, GOL operates in four cities and five airports across Argentina: Aeroparque (AEP) and Ezeiza (EZE) in Buenos Aires, Mendoza (MDZ), Córdoba (COR), and Rosario (ROS). From these hubs, the airline offers direct connections to 13 destinations in Brazil.“We have a 20-year history with Argentina, and this expansion in flights, routes, destinations, and seat availability contributes to the growth of tourism, logistics, and business between both countries,” said Mateus Pongeluppi, GOL’s Vice President of Strategy.<h3>New Routes and Increased Seat Availability</h3>As previously reported, GOL’s expansion includes a 60% increase in seat capacity on the Buenos Aires–Brazil route, reaching up to 16 daily flights.At Aeroparque (AEP), the airline is adding new connections to Porto Alegre, Brasília, Belo Horizonte, Florianópolis, Fortaleza, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo/Guarulhos, Natal, Recife, and Salvador. Meanwhile, Ezeiza (EZE) will see additional flights to Rio de Janeiro, Florianópolis, Porto Seguro, Brasília, Maceió, Fortaleza, and João Pessoa.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35238" data-title="You might be interested"></section>In Córdoba (COR), GOL plans to double its flight capacity. Starting April 2, flights to Rio de Janeiro/Galeão (GIG) will increase from four weekly frequencies to daily service, while flights to São Paulo/Guarulhos (GRU) will resume with three weekly flights.For Rosario (ROS), GOL anticipates a 10% increase in seat availability on the Rio de Janeiro route, with up to three weekly flights in each direction.<h3>Direct Flights from Brazil to Bariloche for Winter Season</h3>Looking ahead to winter 2025, GOL has confirmed direct flights between São Paulo/Guarulhos (GRU) and Bariloche (BRC) from July 2 to August 29. The route will operate three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.According to the airline, all Brazil-Argentina flights will be operated with Boeing 737 aircraft, configured for 176 passengers in its international layout.

GOL Expands Brazil-Argentina Routes with New Flights and Increased Capacity

Flybondi has launched a special promotion allowing passengers to receive an additional ticket at no cost when purchasing a fare for travel in February or March. The offer, available from February 5 to 9, applies to any of the airline’s 23 domestic routes.<h3>How the Promotion Works</h3>According to Flybondi, the complimentary ticket can be redeemed for any available date on the airline’s calendar and includes one piece of carry-on luggage up to 12 kg. For group reservations, each passenger must register their email address to access the benefit. The full terms and conditions of the promotion can be found <a href="https://chatgpt.com/g/g-Is2SnEFTc-av-translate-correct/c/67a37c1e-44d0-800b-a4ea-efa083d750f8#">here</a>.<h3>Celebrating Seven Years with Affordable Travel</h3>The promotion is part of Flybondi’s seventh-anniversary celebrations and aligns with the airline’s commitment to low-cost travel.“With this initiative, the airline aims to connect more people with their favorite destinations, democratizing air travel and making flying an increasingly convenient option,” Flybondi stated.Currently, Flybondi is Argentina’s largest private airline, serving 23 domestic destinations. However, over the past 18 months, the ultra-low-cost carrier has faced operational disruptions due to fleet issues, which it has sought to mitigate by adding aircraft through wet-leasing agreements.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35938" data-title="You might be interested"></section><h3>Regulatory Challenges and Recent Fine</h3>Last week, authorities in the Buenos Aires province fined Flybondi 300 million Argentine pesos (~USD 300,000) for alleged violations of consumer protection laws.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35814" data-title="You might be interested"></section>

Flybondi Launches Promotion Offering Free Companion Ticket for February and March Flights

Dominican airline Arajet continues its expansion into the United States, launching ticket sales for a new route connecting Punta Cana (PUJ) to Miami (MIA) starting June 13, 2025. The route will operate four times per week using Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.With this addition, Arajet strengthens its hub model in the Dominican Republic, enabling connections across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Operating from its bases in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, the airline currently offers 28 routes to 21 international destinations, further solidifying its presence in the region.<h3>Strengthening U.S. Market Entry</h3>This new route, confirmed to Aviacionline, complements Arajet’s U.S. debut, set for April 11, 2025, with the Santo Domingo (SDQ) – Miami (MIA) route, which will also feature four weekly frequencies.<h4>Flight Schedule</h4><ul><li>DM5100 PUJ-MIA: Departs at 09:38, arrives at 12:25 (Thursdays and Saturdays).</li><li>DM5100 PUJ-MIA: Departs at 13:01, arrives at 15:48 (Tuesdays and Fridays).</li><li>DM5101 MIA-PUJ: Departs at 13:55, arrives at 16:31 (Thursdays and Saturdays).</li><li>DM5101 MIA-PUJ: Departs at 17:18, arrives at 19:54 (Tuesdays and Fridays).</li></ul><h3>Expansion Amid Aircraft Delivery Delays</h3>Despite supply chain challenges at Boeing, Arajet remains committed to its growth strategy. The airline currently operates 10 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and had anticipated receiving five additional units in 2025. However, only three aircraft will be delivered in March, June, and August, prompting adjustments to its expansion plans.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35404" data-title="You might be interested"></section>Nevertheless, Arajet aims to transport 1.7 million passengers in 2025, positioning itself as one of the busiest carriers in the Dominican Republic. The airline has also reaffirmed its commitment to gradually expanding its presence in the U.S. with additional destinations in the future.

Arajet Expands U.S. Operations with New Punta Cana–Miami Route

The United States Navy has declared Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the IRST21 sensor system, developed by Lockheed Martin, for the F/A-18 Super Hornet strike fighters. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the aircraft’s passive detection capabilities and paves the way for full-scale production, scheduled for later this year.<h3>A Key Sensor for Air Superiority</h3>The IRST21 is a long-wave infrared search and track (IRST) system that enables beyond-visual-range target detection without emitting active signals. This capability makes it a critical complement to the APG-79 AESA radar, enhancing the detection of low radar-signature threats and increasing the Super Hornet’s effectiveness in combat scenarios."Achieving IOC for IRST21 is a major milestone and a testament to the strong partnership between Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy," said Paul Hey, director of IRST programs at Lockheed Martin. "This advanced sensor provides a critical capability for detecting and tracking airborne threats at extended ranges, ensuring pilots can complete their missions with greater situational awareness and survivability."<h3>Seamless Integration into the F/A-18</h3>The IRST21 is mounted on the front of the Super Hornet’s centerline fuel tank, allowing it to operate without compromising the aircraft’s aerodynamics. Its integration significantly extends the fighter’s threat detection range, providing naval aviators with a crucial advantage in early target identification in high-threat environments."With this revolutionary leap in passive sensing technology, the IRST21 will redefine how aerial warfare is conducted, keeping pilots a step ahead of threats," said Hank Tucker, Vice President of Mission Systems at Lockheed Martin’s Sensors and Global Sustainment division. "We are proud to enhance the Super Hornet with an advanced sensor system that ensures strategic superiority in evolving threat environments."<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/irst21_pod.jpg" alt="pod IRST21 de Lockheed Martin"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure><section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35493" data-title="You might be interested"></section><h3>Operational Challenges and Reliability Issues</h3>However, the system’s development has not been without challenges. According to the latest Annual Report from the Office of the Director, Operational Test &amp; Evaluation, the IRST Block II, which features the IRST21 sensor, encountered reliability issues during operational testing.Recurring hardware and software failures forced aircrews to frequently reboot the module, and in many cases, the complexity of the problems exceeded the U.S. Navy’s maintenance teams’ capacity, requiring direct intervention from Lockheed Martin to resolve issues.Despite these challenges, the implementation of IRST21 represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the F/A-18 Super Hornet, reinforcing its ability to operate in highly contested electronic warfare environments while enhancing its capacity to detect and engage stealth threats.

U.S. Navy Declares Initial Operational Capability for Lockheed Martin's IRST21 Sensor

At NAIS 2025, Russia’s National Aviation Infrastructure Forum, held this week in Moscow, Rosaviatsia head Dmitry Yadrov announced that passenger traffic for Russian airlines is projected to decrease by 1.7% in 2025."For this year, Rosaviatsia and the Ministry of Transport have set the target at approximately 109.7 million passengers," Yadrov stated, according to Interfax.This forecast marks a decline compared to the 5.8% growth recorded in Russia’s air transport sector in 2024, driven by a 20.1% increase in international traffic (27 million passengers) and a 2% rise in domestic travel (84.6 million passengers).<h3>Challenges Ahead: Aircraft Shortages and Sanctions</h3>According to Interfax, experts from the State Research Institute of Civil Aviation had previously predicted that air traffic in 2025 could drop to 95.1 million passengers, with a further decline to 91.2 million in 2026. The primary cause is the shortage of aircraft in Russian airline fleets, severely affected by Western sanctions—a challenge compounded by broader issues in the global aviation industry.

Russian Air Passenger Traffic Expected to Decline by 1.7% in 2025

SMBC Aviation Capital, a leading aircraft leasing company, has announced the signing of agreements with Thai Airways for the lease of eight Airbus A321neo aircraft.The planes, sourced from SMBC Aviation Capital’s direct order with Airbus, will be delivered between 2026 and 2027. These aircraft will support Thai Airways' narrow-body fleet expansion strategy, strengthening its regional network. The fleet renewal aligns with the airline’s restructuring process as it seeks to recover from the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.<h3>Fleet Modernization and Growth Strategy</h3>According to Reuters, Thai Airways is considering the acquisition of up to 95 new Boeing or Airbus aircraft. The airline, which has recently reported profits after years of financial struggles, aims to modernize its fleet and enhance operational efficiency. In this context, the agreement with SMBC Aviation Capital addresses the need to replace Airbus A320ceo aircraft, whose lease contracts will expire between 2026 and 2027.The Asia-Pacific region has experienced a strong rebound in air traffic in recent months, driving growth in Thailand’s tourism-dependent market. As part of its long-term strategy, Thai Airways is working to standardize its fleet, focusing on aircraft like the Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner for long-haul routes.<h3>Enhanced Efficiency and Sustainability</h3>Conor Stafford, Head of Airline Marketing at SMBC Aviation Capital, emphasized that the Airbus A321neo will contribute to Thai Airways' operational efficiency by offering greater passenger comfort, advanced technology, and improved sustainability.“We are pleased to support Thai Airways in modernizing its fleet and look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future,” said Stafford.

Thai Airways to Lease Eight Airbus A321neo from SMBC Aviation Capital

Just two weeks after announcing its return to Caracas (CCS), GOL Linhas Aéreas has suspended ticket sales and, for now, postponed the restart of its operations in Venezuela.The Brazilian airline had planned to launch the route on March 31, 2025, with two weekly flights from Brasília (BSB), making a short stop in Bogotá (BOG), Colombia.<h3>Geopolitical Challenges Impacting Air Travel to Venezuela</h3>The geopolitical crisis has led several Latin American countries to restrict flights to Caracas. Currently, airlines from Panama, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile have suspended their operations to the country. In this context, GOL’s suspension represents yet another challenge for expanding air connectivity in Venezuela.In response to an inquiry from Aviacionline, the airline explained: "Due to the need to adjust the flight network for operations at Caracas Airport (CCS), we have temporarily suspended ticket sales for this destination."However, GOL reaffirmed its commitment to launching flights to Caracas. "This change does not alter the company’s plans to operate in Caracas, and the new schedules and dates will be communicated to the market in due course."<h3>GOL Continues International Expansion</h3>Despite the delay in Venezuela, GOL continues its international growth, having recently launched routes to Bogotá (Colombia), Cancún (Mexico), Aruba, and San José (Costa Rica). Additionally, the airline has strengthened its presence in Argentina, solidifying its position as the leading Brazilian carrier connecting both countries.

GOL Linhas Aéreas Suspends Ticket Sales and Delays Return to Caracas

Nolinor Aviation, a specialist in air services for remote and northern Canadian regions, has signed an agreement with San Diego-based aerospace company Natilus for the acquisition of several Kona cargo aircraft. Currently in development, the Kona features a blended-wing design and the capability to operate on unpaved runways.The agreement secures production slots for these aircraft, which are being designed in compliance with U.S. and Canadian aviation regulations. With a cargo capacity of 3.8 metric tons and a range of 900 nautical miles (approximately 1,667 kilometers), the Kona aims to revolutionize freight transportation in isolated regions while reducing fuel consumption by 30% compared to conventional aircraft.<h3>Optimized for Remote and Challenging Environments</h3>Equipped with a turboprop propulsion system, the Kona can operate on runways as short as 800 meters, making it an ideal solution for accessing remote communities.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/nolinor_kona.png" alt="Nolinor Kona - 2"></figure>“This collaboration reinforces our commitment to innovation and operational efficiency,” said Marco Prud’Homme, President of Nolinor Aviation. “During our visit to Natilus’ headquarters in San Diego last year, we were impressed by their disruptive approach to aircraft design and their ability to tackle the challenges of cargo transportation. The Kona’s ability to operate on unpaved runways makes it a perfect fit for our operations in Canada and beyond.”<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/nolinor_kona.jpg" alt="Nolinor Kona - 1"></figure>Aleksey Matyushev, CEO of Natilus, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “We are proud to collaborate with Nolinor Aviation, a company with extensive experience operating in challenging environments. The Kona redefines cargo transportation with its efficiency and innovative design. This agreement demonstrates how visionary operators are driving the future of aviation.”

Nolinor Aviation to Acquire Natilus Kona Cargo Aircraft for Remote Operations

Dohop, a provider of multi-destination flight connection solutions, has announced that Air Europa has joined Worldwide by easyJet, the alternative interline platform powered by the low-cost carrier. This collaboration adds more than 5,000 new weekly connections and expands the Worldwide network with 25 new destinations.Although Air Europa already has several traditional interline and codeshare agreements, this marks its first partnership with an alternative interline model.<h3>Expanding Connectivity to Latin America and Europe</h3>Through this alliance, passengers booking flights via easyJet will gain access to new long-haul destinations in Latin America, as well as an expanded range of European and domestic routes operated by Air Europa. With this integration, easyJet will now be able to market flights to Latin America, enhancing its connectivity options.“We are delighted to welcome Air Europa to Worldwide by easyJet. Given that both airlines operate in highly demanded destinations, we are confident that this partnership will be very popular with our customers. Each year, millions of connecting passengers travel to and from Europe,” said Dawn Hardwick, Director of Distribution and Strategic Airline Partnerships at easyJet.For Air Europa, the collaboration strengthens its access to easyJet’s extensive European network, particularly at key connection hubs such as London Gatwick (LGW), Milan Malpensa (MXP), Madrid (MAD), and Palma de Mallorca (PMI).“We are excited to partner with easyJet and Dohop, as it allows us to expand our reach in Europe and offer our passengers greater connectivity,” said Estelle Leray, Air Europa’s Director of Alliances and Customer Experience.<h3>Innovative Technology for Seamless Connections</h3>According to a statement, the integration with Worldwide by easyJet is made possible by Dohop’s technology, which enables smooth airline connections without the complexities of traditional interline agreements. This platform allows passengers to book itineraries with multiple airlines in a single transaction, ensuring a more efficient and uninterrupted travel experience.“We are proud to support easyJet and Air Europa in this partnership through our technology, providing even greater connectivity for their passengers,” said Sarah Hanan, Chief Commercial Officer at Dohop. “This collaboration is a great example of how alternative interline models can create new opportunities for both airlines and travelers,” she concluded.

Air Europa Joins easyJet’s Worldwide Platform Through Dohop Partnership

Embraer Executive Jets has signed a purchase agreement with Flexjet, a leading fractional aircraft ownership operator. The deal includes a firm order for 182 aircraft, with an additional 30 purchase options, covering the Praetor 600, Praetor 500, and Phenom 300E models. The agreement also includes an expanded services and support package.Valued at $7 billion at current list prices, this order marks the largest purchase in Flexjet’s 30-year history and the biggest firm order ever placed for Embraer’s executive aviation division. With this acquisition, Flexjet strengthens its partnership with the Brazilian manufacturer and adds the latest version of the Phenom 300E to its global fleet.<h3>Strengthening a 20-Year Strategic Partnership</h3>“We are thrilled by Flexjet’s renewed confidence in Embraer through this comprehensive agreement, which reinforces a strategic partnership spanning more than two decades,” said Michael Amalfitano, President &amp; CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. “We are excited to continue providing Flexjet customers with access to our industry-leading Phenom and Praetor jets.”Flexjet and Embraer have collaborated since 2003, when Flight Options—later merged with Flexjet in 2015—became the first fractional operator to introduce the Legacy Executive. Over the years, the partnership has expanded to include the Praetor 600, Praetor 500, and Phenom 300 models in Flexjet’s global fleet.<h3>Expanding Embraer’s Presence in North America and Europe</h3>"As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, this historic order is a perfect opportunity to strengthen our relationship with Embraer,” said Michael Silvestro, CEO of Flexjet. “Since 2003, we have taken delivery of more than 150 Embraer aircraft. The Praetor 500 and Praetor 600 have delivered outstanding performance in our fleet. The Praetor 600 has been so well received in Europe that we decided to introduce it in North America in 2023, expanding our Embraer fleet across two continents.”<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/embraer_executive_flexjet.jpg" alt="Embraer Executive FlexJet - 1"></figure>Flexjet has been the launch fleet customer for three key Embraer products: the Legacy Executive in 2003, the Phenom 300 in 2010, and the Praetor 500 and 600 in 2019. The company has also been part of major milestones, including the delivery of Embraer’s 100th Phenom 300 in 2012 and its 1,000th executive jet, a Legacy 500, in 2016.The Phenom 300 has been the world’s best-selling light jet for 12 consecutive years, according to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). Meanwhile, the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 introduced fly-by-wire technology to Flexjet’s fleet, blending the capabilities of larger aircraft with the operational efficiency of midsize jets.

Flexjet Places Record $7 Billion Order for Embraer Executive Jets

The Dominican airline Arajet continues its expansion plan in the United States and has begun ticket sales for its new route connecting Punta Cana (PUJ) with Miami (MIA) starting June 13, 2025. The operation will include four weekly flights on Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.Scheduled flights are as follows:DM5100 PUJ-MIA: Departure at 09:38 and arrival at 12:25 on Thursdays and Saturdays.DM5100 PUJ-MIA: Departure at 13:01 and arrival at 15:48 on Tuesdays and Fridays.DM5101 MIA-PUJ: Departure at 13:55 and arrival at 16:31 on Thursdays and Saturdays.DM5101 MIA-PUJ: Departure at 17:18 and arrival at 19:54 on Tuesdays and Fridays.This new connection, confirmed by the company, complements Arajet's debut in the U.S. market, scheduled for April 11, 2025, with the Santo Domingo (SDQ) - Miami (MIA) route, which will also have four weekly frequencies.<h3>Expansion Amid Aircraft Delivery Delays</h3>Despite challenges in Boeing's supply chain, Arajet remains committed to its growth plan. The airline currently operates 10 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and is expected to receive five additional units in 2025; however, only three aircraft will be incorporated in March, June, and August, requiring adjustments to its expectations.Even so, the company projects to transport 1.7 million passengers in 2025, positioning itself as one of the busiest airlines in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, it has reaffirmed its commitment to gradually expanding its presence in the United States with new destinations shortly.<h3>Regional Connectivity and Strengthening the Dominican Hub</h3>With this new route, Arajet strengthens its Dominican Republic hub model, enabling connections between North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. From its bases in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, the airline operates 28 routes to 21 international destinations, further consolidating its regional position.Arajet’s growth in the U.S. market represents a strategic step in its expansion plan, aiming to strengthen its presence on high-demand routes and connect the Dominican diaspora with its home country.

Arajet Expands Its Presence in the United States with a New Route to Miami from Punta Cana

Aena has presented its investment projects for Tenerife’s two airports while also outlining progress in analyzing future investments across the Canary Islands. The company aims to enhance safety and service quality across the eight airports in the archipelago while maintaining competitive airport fees for airlines.During an event at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), Aena’s President and CEO, Maurici Lucena, announced that planned investments for the Canary Islands' airports will exceed €1 billion. These investments, set to be incorporated into Aena’s broader investment plans, aim to boost connectivity and regional development.<h3>Key Meetings and Investment Breakdown</h3>Before unveiling the projects, Lucena met with the President of the Canary Islands Government, Fernando Clavijo, as well as the President and Vice President of Tenerife’s Cabildo. The meeting focused specifically on the planned investments for the island’s airports.Aena provided a detailed presentation to business leaders and media representatives, highlighting past investments in the archipelago and ongoing renovation projects at Tenerife South and Tenerife North-Ciudad de La Laguna (TFN) airports.Aena’s Vice President, Javier Marín, outlined the budget allocation for Tenerife’s airports, which totals approximately €800 million. Of this, €550 million is earmarked for Tenerife South Airport, while €250 million will go to Tenerife North-Ciudad de La Laguna.“Aena has been working closely with local authorities and Tenerife’s Cabildo experts to analyze the best solutions and design the necessary improvements,” Marín stated.<h3>Enhancing the Passenger Experience</h3>The investment in Tenerife South Airport, which handled 13.7 million passengers in 2024, will focus on modernizing its infrastructure and optimizing operational processes. This includes integrating advanced technologies and unifying the terminal under a single roof to maximize natural light. These upgrades will enable the airport to accommodate 20 million passengers annually.At Tenerife North-Ciudad de La Laguna Airport, which served 6.76 million passengers in 2024, the focus will be on improving service quality and operational efficiency while preserving the terminal’s unique architectural identity.The project includes expanding the check-in area and increasing the number of counters, boarding gates, and baggage claim facilities. Overall, the terminal's surface area will grow by 49%.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/tenerife_norte_render_del_proyecto_de_ampliacion.jpg" alt="Tenerife Norte - Render del proyecto de ampliación"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>“These projects will significantly enhance the quality and image of our airports, improving the passenger experience and reinforcing their role as key gateways to the island,” Marín concluded.

Aena Unveils Investment Plans for Tenerife’s Airports

The Kazakh Ministry of Transport has published the preliminary report on the accident involving the Embraer ERJ 190-100 IGW, registration 4K-AZ65, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL). The crash, which occurred on December 25, 2024, near Aktau, Kazakhstan, resulted in 38 fatalities and raised a series of questions that could modify the initial narrative regarding the cause of the accident.What was initially described as a possible collision with birds has evolved into a more complex line of investigation. According to the document, structural damage to the aircraft and the presence of metallic objects in the fuselage have led investigators to consider the possibility of an external impact before the accident.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="34713" data-title="You might be interested"></section><h3>From a technical issue to an uncontrollable emergency</h3>Flight J2-8243 took off from Baku bound for Grozny, but faced difficulties landing at its original destination. After two failed approach attempts, the crew decided to return to Baku, but the situation quickly deteriorated.At 05:13 UTC, aircraft records show that a total loss of control systems occurred, forcing the crew to make the decision to head to Aktau for an emergency landing. From that moment on, the report suggests a progressive deterioration of the aircraft, with the activation of multiple alerts in the cockpit, including hydraulic pressure loss and depressurization.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/accidente_azerbaijian_1_1.jpg" alt="Accidente Azerbaijan 1"><figcaption>Ph: Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan</figcaption></figure>One of the key statements in the report indicates that the crew reported an explosion in the rear of the aircraft, followed by sudden depressurization. This detail is crucial, as it could rule out the hypothesis that the aircraft simply suffered a technical failure and instead point to an external event.<h3>Damage analysis: the evidence raising doubts</h3>The report details an extensive analysis of the Embraer 190 wreckage, highlighting significant damage to the tail section, horizontal stabilizer, and left engine. Some of these damages have been described as perforations in the fuselage, which has generated new hypotheses about the cause of the accident.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/accidente_azerbaijian.jpg" alt="Accidente Azerbaijan"><figcaption>Ph: Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan</figcaption></figure>Among the most relevant elements of the forensic analysis is the recovery of metallic fragments embedded in the aircraft's structure, particularly in the tail section and hydraulic system. Experts have determined that these pieces were not part of the Embraer 190, which reinforces the possibility that the aircraft was hit by an external object in flight.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/accidente_azerbaijian_3.png" alt="Accidente Azerbaijan 3"><figcaption>Ph: Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan</figcaption></figure>Additionally, damage was found in the hydraulic lines, suggesting that the aircraft suffered a progressive loss of control due to lack of pressure in its critical systems. This loss of control would have led the aircraft into a situation where the crew could only maneuver using the engines, an extremely complex emergency procedure with low chances of success.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/accidente_azerbaijian_2.png" alt="Accidente Azerbaijan 2"><figcaption>Ph: Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan</figcaption></figure><h3>Collision with birds or impact from an external object?</h3>Since the beginning of the investigation, one of the main hypotheses was the ingestion of birds into the engines, which could have caused the aircraft's systems to malfunction. However, the report does not present conclusive evidence of biological remains in the engines or fuselage, leading experts to reconsider this theory.The preliminary report suggests that the aircraft may have been hit by an unknown object before losing control, which aligns with statements from Azerbaijan's president, who claimed that the Embraer 190 may have been shot down from the ground. This accusation has generated diplomatic tensions, especially because the damage described on the aircraft does not correspond to the typical patterns of a bird strike.The report mentions that recovered metallic fragments have been sent for ballistic and forensic analysis to determine their origin. The results of these studies could confirm or rule out the possibility that the aircraft was hit by a projectile or another high-speed object.<h3>The flight data recorder: the missing keys</h3>While the report provides significant details about the last minutes of the flight, investigators are still analyzing the flight data recorders (FDR) and cockpit voice recordings (CVR) to understand what happened in the moments before the emergency.Some key questions that experts seek to answer include:• Was there an explosion inside the aircraft, or was it an external impact? • Why did the hydraulic and navigation systems fail simultaneously? • What evidence do the debris found on the aircraft provide regarding the cause of the accident?The analysis of these data could be crucial to determine whether the accident was due to a mechanical failure, an in-flight collision, or even an intentional act.<h3>Implications and next steps</h3>The preliminary report leaves open the possibility that the Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 accident was not a fortuitous event, but rather that external factors were involved. This finding could have diplomatic and aviation security implications at an international level.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35548" data-title="You might be interested"></section>Kazakh authorities have announced that they will continue analyzing the recovered fragments and carry out a detailed inspection of the aircraft’s systems. Meanwhile, a final report is expected in the coming months, which could clarify the true causes of the accident and potentially modify the official version of events.

Kazakhstan Releases Preliminary Report on Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 Crash

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has raised serious concerns over the severe operational disruptions at Saint Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) following labor action by the airport’s sole ground handling provider.Reports indicate that 80% of the company’s staff called in sick, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations, significantly affecting passengers and airline operations.<h3>Lack of Alternatives Worsens the Crisis</h3>According to IATA, the reliance on a single ground handling provider at UVF has exacerbated the situation, leaving airlines with no alternative solutions to maintain normal operations.Peter Cerdá, IATA’s Regional Vice President for the Americas, stated: “IATA is pressing the Civil Aviation Authority and airport authorities to implement immediate contingency measures to restore normal operations and minimize disruption. We are also seeking direct engagement with the Ministers of Transport and Tourism to ensure a swift resolution to this labor dispute and to discuss long-term reforms to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.”<h3>Call for Structural Reforms</h3>IATA emphasized that diversifying ground handling service providers at UVF is essential to enhancing operational resilience and ensuring the stability of Saint Lucia’s aviation sector. The association warned that relying on a single provider creates an unnecessary risk, as demonstrated by the current crisis.IATA urged authorities to take swift and decisive action to resolve the immediate disruption and to implement structural changes that will safeguard the reliability and efficiency of the airport in the long term.<h3>Flights at Hewanorra International Airport</h3>This airport primarily handles medium- and long-haul flights operated by major international airlines serving Saint Lucia.<ul><li>American Airlines flies from Charlotte-Douglas, New York-JFK, Miami, and Philadelphia.</li><li>Air Canada operates flights from Toronto.</li><li>JetBlue serves the airport from Boston and New York-JFK.</li><li>British Airways connects London-Gatwick with triangular flights including Georgetown, Grenada, and Tobago.</li><li>Delta Air Lines flies from Atlanta.</li><li>TUI Airways operates from London-Gatwick.</li><li>United Airlines offers flights from Newark and Chicago-O’Hare.</li><li>Virgin Atlantic connects London-Heathrow with Saint Lucia.</li><li>WestJet flies from Toronto.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/red_de_destinos_del_aeropuerto_internacional_hewanorra_santa_lucia_febrero_2025_cirium_schedule_mapper.jpg" alt="Red de destinos del Aeropuerto Internacional Hewanorra - Santa Lucía - Febrero 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)"><figcaption>Red de destinos del Aeropuerto Internacional Hewanorra - Santa Lucía - Febrero 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)</figcaption></figure>

Ground Handling Issues at St. Lucia Lead to Flight Cancellations, IATA Urges Action

Flybondi has incorporated a third Airbus A320, registered as LY-NVL, under a wet-lease agreement with Avion Express for the remainder of the summer season. This aircraft joins the previously leased LY-MLJ and LY-VEL, increasing the airline's capacity to meet passenger demand through March 2025.The arrival of LY-NVL marks a new step in Flybondi’s strategy, as the airline has historically operated an exclusive fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This expansion is aimed at providing greater operational flexibility to accommodate the surge in travelers during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer months.The A320-200 was delivered through a multi-leg journey before reaching Argentina. On February 2, it departed from Reykjavik (KEF) at 7:00 AM, landing in Montreal (YUL) at 7:54 AM after a 5-hour and 29-minute flight. It then took off from Montreal at 9:00 AM, heading to Miami (MIA), where it arrived at 12:41 PM following a 3-hour and 17-minute flight.The next day, the aircraft continued its journey, departing from Miami at 7:00 AM toward Trujillo (TRU), Peru, landing at 12:09 PM after a 4-hour and 57-minute flight. Finally, it took off from Trujillo at 3:30 PM and arrived in Buenos Aires (EZE) at 10:37 PM, completing its delivery to Flybondi.The agreement with Avion Express, initiated in November 2024, allows the low-cost airline to leverage the ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) model, enabling a rapid fleet expansion without the financial commitments of aircraft purchases or long-term dry-lease contracts. This strategy provides a competitive advantage in managing seasonal demand fluctuations.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35295" data-title="You might be interested"></section>Additionally, the company signed a wet-lease agreement with the Spanish operator AlbaStar to operate two Boeing 737-800s between November 2024 and March 2025, further strengthening its capacity during the peak season. The first aircraft began operations on November 7 on the Buenos Aires–Ushuaia route, while the second arrived in Argentina on November 9.

Flybondi adds a third Airbus A320 under a wet-lease agreement

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new airworthiness directive (AD 2024-26-06), replacing AD 2022-16-06, applicable to certain Airbus aircraft models. The measure follows tests revealing that the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA) may not display failure indications when the upper secondary load path (SLP) is activated, potentially leading to loss of aircraft control.<h3>Affected aircraft and required modifications</h3>The directive applies to the Airbus A330-200, -300, -900, and the A340-200 and -300. The new regulation maintains the actions established in the previous directive, including modifications to the THSA installation, implementation of the electrical load sensing device (ELSD), and activation of the system. It also introduces revised procedures and new actions for certain aircraft.The directive incorporates the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness Directive 2024-0016, which includes additional instructions for ELSD installation and wiring adjustments. Operators must complete these modifications by March 11, 2025.<h3>Industry feedback and compliance costs</h3>The FAA received comments from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which supported the measure without modifications. Delta Air Lines requested clarification on possible changes related to Revision 03 of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3237, which could require additional work. The FAA stated it will assess whether further regulation is needed if EASA mandates additional modifications.The directive is expected to affect 120 U.S.-registered aircraft, with compliance costs estimated at up to $72,236 per aircraft, depending on the modifications required. Some costs may be covered under manufacturer warranties.Issued under the authority of Title 49 of the U.S. Code, the FAA affirms that this regulation will not have a significant impact on small businesses or intrastate aviation in Alaska.

FAA issues new airworthiness directive for Airbus A330 and A340 models

Andalucia’s Tourism and Foreign Affairs Minister, Arturo Bernal, announced on Monday the launch of a new route between Warsaw (WAW), Poland, and Jerez de la Frontera (XRY), Spain, operated by Enter Air in partnership with TUI Poland.The charter service will begin in April 2025, offering one weekly flight on a Boeing 737-800 with 189 seats per trip. The route will operate throughout the summer season, starting April 18 and running until October 17, according to the Andalucian government.Bernal highlighted that this new route will add 5,300 seats to Andalucia during the summer season, further establishing Cádiz as a key destination for Polish tourists."This connection strengthens Cádiz province’s positioning and its appeal to Polish travelers," Bernal stated.<h2>Growing Polish Market in Cádiz</h2>According to Andalucia’s tourism board, Poland has shown steady growth as a source market for visitors to Cádiz. In 2024, a total of 19,210 Polish travelers stayed in hotels across the province, marking a 3.4% increase from the previous year. Additionally, overnight stays by Polish visitors rose by 17.7%, reaching 44,340 in 2024."This new Warsaw link opens a strategic market for the city and strengthens Jerez Airport’s role. We will continue working through Andalucia’s Air Connectivity Board to further develop its network," said Jerez Mayor María José García-Pelayo.<h2>Expanded Air Connectivity in Jerez for 2025</h2>The Warsaw–Jerez connection is part of a broader expansion of air routes planned for 2025, which includes:<ul><li>New Berlin connection operated by Eurowings</li><li>Jet2.com launching flights to Birmingham, Leeds, and Manchester</li><li>Binter increasing frequencies to the Canary Islands during the summer</li><li><a href="https://www.aviacionline.com/volotea-announces-new-direct-route-from-asturias-to-cadiz-starting-april-2025">New Volotea route to Asturias</a></li></ul>

New Warsaw–Jerez Route to Launch in April 2025, Strengthening Cádiz’s Appeal for Polish Tourists

France’s Directorate General of Armament (DGA) has signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space, in collaboration with Thales, to conduct a risk assessment study for its Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) program. This 24-month agreement follows the architecture and feasibility study initiated in late 2022.<h2>A321 MPA: A Key Asset for France’s Nuclear Deterrence Strategy</h2>Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized that the A321 MPA is designed for long-range maritime patrol missions, offering high autonomy, reliability, and availability. The aircraft is expected to play a crucial role in France’s oceanic nuclear deterrence strategy.The primary goal of the new contract is to define the technical, economic, and industrial aspects of the program, with development and production expected to begin by late 2026. The study will refine project requirements, determine system specifications, and conduct wind tunnel aerodynamic tests.<h2>Replacing the Atlantique 2: The Next-Generation Maritime Patrol Aircraft</h2>Based on the Airbus A321XLR, the A321 MPA is being developed to meet the French Navy’s requirements for:<ul><li>Anti-submarine warfare (ASW)</li><li>Anti-surface warfare (ASuW)</li><li>Intelligence gathering</li></ul>The aircraft is expected to replace the aging fleet of Breguet Atlantique 2 patrol aircraft between 2030 and 2040.<h2>Cutting-Edge Technology and Combat Capabilities</h2>The A321 MPA will feature extended range and enhanced low-altitude maneuverability. It will be equipped with state-of-the-art sensors developed by Thales, including:<ul><li>Active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar</li><li>Acoustic system with sonobuoys</li><li>Electronic warfare and electro-optical systems</li><li>Magnetic anomaly detection (MAD)</li><li>Self-protection systems</li></ul>Additionally, the aircraft will incorporate advanced communication systems, including satellite links, and will be capable of carrying anti-submarine and anti-ship weapons, such as torpedoes and the future FMAN missile. Its modular design and cargo bay will allow adaptability to emerging threats and future technologies throughout its lifecycle.<h2>Leveraging Airbus’s Military Expertise</h2>The A321 MPA will benefit from Airbus’s extensive experience in converting commercial aircraft for military applications, notably with the A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport). Airbus has also successfully developed maritime patrol and surveillance variants of the P-3, C295, and CN235, with over 170 aircraft currently in service worldwide.&nbsp;

English