As <a href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/avianca-to-announce-a-new-flight-to-the-united-states-soon/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">we previously reported</a>, <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.avianca.com/en/">Avianca</a> announced that it will add five new routes from Central America and Colombia to Florida, including Tampa (TPA), a new destination in the group&#8217;s network.
Florida is Avianca&#8217;s main market in the United States, which, with this announcement, it will serve with 16 direct routes from six countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The company will connect Fort Lauderdale (FLL) with Medellín/Rionegro (MDE) and Managua (MGA); Miami (MIA) with San José (SJO) and Guatemala City (GUA); and Tampa (TPA) with Bogotá (BOG). Avianca did not reveal the exact start date but indicated that these routes will begin in 2025.
“Florida has historically been a key point for connection with Latin America, which is why it is fundamental for us to contribute to reuniting more families, boosting tourism, and promoting business. So far in 2024, we have transported over four million travelers on more than 27,000 flights to and from the United States. These new routes respond to the needs of our customers and represent an opportunity for them to fly directly to more destinations in both regions where we already have a strong presence,” said Frederico Pedreira, CEO of Avianca.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-350117" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flightmap-GUA-MIA-SJO-SAL-MGA-FLL-MDE_TPA-BOG.png" alt="" width="1200" height="600" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Flightmap-GUA-MIA-SJO-SAL-MGA-FLL-MDE_TPA-BOG.png 1200w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Flightmap-GUA-MIA-SJO-SAL-MGA-FLL-MDE_TPA-BOG-300x150.png 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Flightmap-GUA-MIA-SJO-SAL-MGA-FLL-MDE_TPA-BOG-768x384.png 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Flightmap-GUA-MIA-SJO-SAL-MGA-FLL-MDE_TPA-BOG-150x75.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
<h3>Tampa: Avianca&#8217;s new destination</h3>
Tampa is Avianca&#8217;s fourth destination in Florida, after Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando. The city will connect with 25 domestic destinations and 16 in South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
“The significance of Avianca&#8217;s new route between Tampa and Bogotá is enormous, as it represents TPA&#8217;s first connection with Latin America in almost 50 years and fulfills a long-awaited need for direct service to South America,” said Joe Lopano, CEO of TPA.
Tampa adds its third Latin American airline with Avianca, joining Copa Airlines and Aeroméxico. Additionally, jetBlue connects Tampa with Cancún. From the Caribbean, Tampa is linked to Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways), Punta Cana and Santo Domingo (Frontier), Havana (Southwest), Marsh Harbour, and Nassau (Bahamasair).

Avianca Expands Florida Network: Five New Routes Including Tampa in 2025

<a href="https://news.delta.com/">Delta Air Lines</a> launched a new nonstop service between Seattle-Tacoma and Washington-National, competing in this segment with Alaska Airlines. This route is one of the five scheduled after the approval of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2024, which enabled serving farther cities from that airport.
«Seattle is a key market for our customers, a crucial hub for Delta, and a premier gateway to the West Coast. Delta congratulates the Department of Transportation for recognizing that additional service from DCA to Seattle will provide consumers with much-needed competition and choice. We look forward to launching this new premium service from DCA in March,» said Glen Hauenstein, president of Delta Air Lines.
The new service will operate daily using Airbus A321neo aircraft with a capacity of 194 seats.
<h3>Growth in Seattle</h3>
In addition to the new service to Washington-National, Delta has focused on its transpacific network in Seattle, offering services to Tokyo-Haneda, Seoul-Incheon, Shanghai-Pudong, and Taipei. Currently, Delta is the largest long-haul operator in Seattle.
By spring 2025, several Asian routes will be operated using Airbus A350-900 aircraft with a capacity of 306 seats. These changes will add 55,000 seats per year and increase Delta One and Premium Select seating options by 40%. 
Additionally, by summer 2025, Seattle will become the fourth airport to feature a Delta One Lounge, along with the addition of a second Sky Club spanning over 23,000 square feet in Terminal A.
See also: <a style="color: #ff9900;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/delta-air-lines-expands-summer-2025-routes-with-new-destinations-in-the-us-and-latin-america/">Delta Air Lines launches seven new routes in the United States and Latin America for summer 2025</a>

Delta Air Lines Expands with Nonstop Seattle to Washington-National Route

<a href="https://www.condor.com/us?gclsrc=aw.ds&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAmrS7BhBJEiwAei59i9OyW9lrB8EUH5nhLnj4UaZERfHSkgIHmP8jxlCAWKnz-inGOkAxiRoCUScQAvD_BwE">Condor</a> has canceled several routes to Canada and the United States due to a ruling by the German Federal Court of Justice that overturns a measure enacted by the Antitrust Authority. This measure established an interline agreement between the German leisure airline and Lufthansa, allowing passengers from North America to fly with Condor and connect to a Lufthansa service on a single ticket with checked luggage to their final destination.
Following this ruling, Condor has adjusted its schedule for the summer 2025 season by reducing the number of transatlantic destinations, discontinuing services from Frankfurt to Edmonton and Calgary in Canada and Baltimore, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Phoenix-Sky Harbor, and San Antonio in the United States.
“Condor has cultivated strong professional and personal ties with San Antonio and the other affected communities over the years, and we deeply regret the loss of connectivity and service this will cause. We remain committed to exploring all avenues for fair competition, although we acknowledge that additional legal proceedings will take time to resolve,” said Dr. Jens Boyd, Commercial Director of Condor.
With this measure, San Antonio loses its only transatlantic connection; Baltimore, Phoenix-Sky Harbor, and Edmonton will no longer have nonstop flights to Germany; Minneapolis-St. Paul and Halifax will only be operated by Discover Airlines.
Condor has also made adjustments to its long-haul schedule, operating year-round to Bangkok and Johannesburg. Additionally, it is increasing flights in several West Coast cities in the United States, which are hubs for its codeshare partner, Alaska Airlines.
The German leisure airline has also added short- and medium-haul services from Frankfurt to Berlin, Milan-Malpensa, Prague, Rome-Fiumicino, and Zurich to feed its transatlantic flights.

Condor Cancels Multiple Routes to Canada and the U.S. After German Court Ruling

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 same night a combat aircraft from the U.S. Navy was shot down over the Red Sea, a second aircraft narrowly escaped the same fate.
An F/A-18 Super Hornet, flying a few kilometers behind the downed Hornet, was forced to take evasive action after a second surface-to-air missile was launched from the cruiser USS Gettysburg as it prepared to land on the aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman, a source familiar with the incident told Fox News.
A Navy official confirmed that a second SM-2 missile was fired from the USS Gettysburg and added that the Navy is investigating whether the missile targeted the second aircraft.
The Navy is also investigating whether the USS Gettysburg deactivated the guidance system of the second missile. Until now, it had not been reported that a second U.S. Navy aircraft had nearly been shot down.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-350049 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettysburg.webp" alt="" width="1440" height="810" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/gettysburg.webp 1440w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/gettysburg-300x169.webp 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/gettysburg-768x432.webp 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/gettysburg-150x84.webp 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1440px) 100vw, 1440px" />
The United States Central Command, responsible for leading airstrikes in the Middle East, including against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, said in a statement earlier this week regarding the «friendly fire» incident: «The guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), part of the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, accidentally fired and hit the F/A-18, which was flying from the USS Harry S. Truman.»
The source said this is not accurate. The F/A-18 Super Hornet was attempting to land on the Truman when it was shot down after completing an aerial refueling mission for aircraft conducting airstrikes over Yemen, the source stated.
«It was a tanker crew returning to land on the carrier about 10 miles away. They recognized the missile was guiding and evaded about three seconds before the missile hit the plane,» the source said.
The pilot and weapons systems officer ejected and were recovered by a rescue helicopter and returned to the carrier. One of them sustained «minor injuries,» according to a Centcom statement.
Neither the United States Central Command nor the Pentagon has disclosed that a second U.S. combat aircraft was targeted by the cruiser and nearly shot down as well.
On the night of the «friendly fire» incident, U.S. Central Command said in a statement on X that its «forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command and control facility operated by Iran-backed Houthis within Houthi-controlled territory in Sana’a, Yemen, on December 21, Yemen time.»
There have been no further strikes from Truman against the Houthis since the friendly fire incident.
Navy pilots are angered by the incident and question the training aboard the USS Gettysburg, the source said, describing it as «inadequate.»
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-350050 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/fighter-jet.webp" alt="" width="1440" height="810" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/fighter-jet.webp 1440w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/fighter-jet-300x169.webp 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/fighter-jet-768x432.webp 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/fighter-jet-150x84.webp 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1440px) 100vw, 1440px" />
The «friendly fire» incident occurred days after the Harry S. Truman carrier strike group arrived in the Red Sea. The December 21 strikes against the Houthis were the first carried out by the strike group since its arrival off Yemen’s coast.
The night Truman launched airstrikes against the Houthis, U.S. warships were targeted, which may have contributed to the «friendly fire» incident.
In the statement announcing the strikes, Centcom said: «During the operation [on December 21], CENTCOM forces also shot down multiple Houthi one-way attack unmanned aerial vehicles (OWA UAVs) and an anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) over the Red Sea.»

Second U.S. Navy Jet Narrowly Escapes Missile Strike Over Red Sea

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

On Tuesday, December 24, during one of the busiest periods for air transportation, American Airlines, the world&#8217;s largest airline, faced a significant disruption by suspending all its flights in the United States due to a technical issue.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the company later announced that the situation had been resolved and flights had resumed operations.
Although specific details about the nature of the technical issue were not disclosed, the airline used social media to inform and reassure passengers.
In its posts, American Airlines indicated that its teams were working diligently to resolve the situation, although no estimated time for the normalization of flights was provided. Later, the company confirmed on social media that the issue had been resolved.
Passengers were advised to stay attentive to updates. As new details emerge regarding the nature of the technical issue and the solutions implemented by the airline, additional information will be provided.

Technical Glitch Halts All American Airlines Flights in the U.S. During Holiday Rush

For the summer 2025 season, Delta Air Lines adds new routes in the United States and Latin America. The offer includes beach destinations, national parks, and scenic landscapes, providing more travel options for customers.
From Atlanta, it strengthens the domestic market with services to Bangor (Maine) and Rapid City (South Dakota). Detroit is the hub where more new routes will be added: Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), Bozeman (Montana), Pensacola, and Destin (Florida). Additionally, there will be flights between Minneapolis and Jackson Hole (Wyoming).
<h3>Schedule of new routes for summer 2025</h3>
All routes operate on Saturdays.
Atlanta:
<ul>
<li>Bangor: from June 8 to September 9 on Boeing 737-800.</li>
<li>Rapid City: from June 8 to September 9 on Boeing 737-800.</li>
</ul>
Detroit:
<ul>
<li>Punta Cana: from May 10 to August 3 on Boeing 737-900ER.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Bozeman: from June 8 to September 9 on Airbus A319.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Pensacola: from June 8 to September 9 on Boeing 717.</li>
<li>Destin-Fort Walton: from June 8 to September 9 on Boeing 717.</li>
</ul>
Minneapolis:
<ul>
<li>Jackson Hole: from June 8 to September 9 on Airbus A319.</li>
</ul>
See also: <a style="color: #ffcc00;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/delta-air-lines-to-deploy-airbus-a350-900-on-atlanta-sao-paulo-route-in-2025/">Delta will use Airbus A350 on its flights between São Paulo and Atlanta starting next year</a>

Delta Air Lines Expands Summer 2025 Routes with New Destinations in the US and Latin America

Delta Air Lines plans a change in the operation of its aircraft on the route between Atlanta and São Paulo-Guarulhos during the third quarter of 2025. Starting on July 3, the airline will begin deploying the Airbus A350-900 on regular flights, replacing the Airbus A330-300 currently in use.
Flights DL105 and DL268 will be operated by the new A350, with a capacity of 275 passengers. Flight DL105 departs Atlanta at 7:15 PM and arrives in Guarulhos at 5:40 AM the following day. Flight DL268 departs São Paulo at 10:05 AM and lands in Atlanta at 6:40 PM.
Meanwhile, some flights, such as DL269 from Atlanta to São Paulo and DL104 on the return leg, will continue to be served by the A330-300.
This is not an unprecedented change. Previously, the U.S. carrier even operated the A350 on the same route for some time, as reported then by <a href="https://aeroin.net/delta-vai-empregar-o-airbus-a350-nos-voos-entre-sao-paulo-e-atlanta-a-partir-do-proximo-ano/">AEROIN</a>.

Delta Air Lines to Deploy Airbus A350-900 on Atlanta–São Paulo Route in 2025

On December 17, 2024, the last T-1A Jayhawk of the United States Air Force (USAF) departed from Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas, closing a chapter in the history of military pilot training. Following a brief ceremony, the aircraft was transferred to the storage depot at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, under the custody of the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG).
The T-1A Jayhawk, a derivative of the Beechjet/Hawker 400A executive jet, entered service in 1992 as part of the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT) program. Since its introduction at Reese Air Force Base in Texas, this aircraft became a key component in the training of pilots assigned to transport and refueling aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, and C-130 Hercules. Its design was modified from the civilian version, including structural enhancements and an additional fuel tank, tailoring it to the specific training needs of the USAF.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-349676" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007.jpg" alt="T-1A Jayhawk" width="2100" height="1398" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007.jpg 2100w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-1352x900.jpg 1352w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-768x511.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2100px) 100vw, 2100px" />
Throughout its more than 30 years of service, the T-1A was operated by various training units at bases such as Columbus, Laughlin, and Vance. The last squadron to use it was the 86th Flying Training Squadron «Rio Lobos,» part of the 47th Flying Training Wing at Laughlin. The transition to exclusive use of the T-6A Texan II for training future transport pilots represents a new phase in the Air Force&#8217;s training methods, aligning with current operational needs.
The retirement of the T-1A not only marks the end of its use in training but also leaves behind a legacy of thousands of pilots who began their journey into the skies with this iconic aircraft. Remaining units, such as those based in Pensacola, Florida, are expected to start deprogramming their aircraft beginning in January 2025.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349675 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061.jpg" alt="T-1A Jayhawk" width="2100" height="1178" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061.jpg 2100w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-300x168.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-1600x898.jpg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-768x431.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-1536x862.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-2048x1149.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2100px) 100vw, 2100px" />

End of an Era: USAF Retires Last T-1A Jayhawk After 30 Years of Service

Starting on March 2, 2025, American Airlines will begin operating direct flights between Reagan National Airport (DCA) in Washington, D.C., and San Antonio International Airport (SAT), becoming the only airline to offer this nonstop service. Tickets will be available starting December 23 through aa.com and the company’s mobile app.
The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) formally approved American Airlines’ request this week, allowing the connection between San Antonio, the fastest-growing city in the country, and Washington, D.C. This complements the 14 daily flights the airline already operates to San Antonio from Washington-Dulles.
This became possible thanks to the FAA Reauthorization Act signed earlier this year, which allowed for the creation of 10 new slot exemptions at DCA. These slots are designated to expand service to airports beyond the 1,250-mile perimeter rule, which typically restricts nonstop flights from Reagan to destinations within that range.
“We are proud to offer direct flights between San Antonio and Washington, D.C. This new service will provide convenient access to our nation’s capital and connect travelers to our extensive global network,” said Brian Znotins, American Airlines’ Senior Vice President of Network Planning.
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg celebrated this development, stating, “This direct flight marks a milestone for our community, opening new opportunities for travel and economic development. I thank those who supported this effort to make it a reality.”
American Airlines assures that the service is designed to meet the needs of San Antonio’s military, business, educational, and research communities, while also fostering competition and improving travel options for passengers in the region. Jesús Saenz, Director of the San Antonio Airport System, stated, “This historic connection strengthens our city’s link to the heart of the country and significantly enhances the travel experience for our passengers.”
<h3>Flight schedules between San Antonio and Washington, D.C.</h3>
<ul>
<li>Flight 1718: Departs SAT at 6:35 a.m., arrives at DCA at 10:41 a.m.</li>
<li>Flight 1947: Departs DCA at 7:45 p.m., arrives at SAT at 10:43 p.m. 
(Both operated by Airbus A321).</li>
</ul>

New Nonstop Route: San Antonio to Washington, D.C. with American Airlines

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

Following the success of its service to Arizona, <a href="https://www.airfrance.com/">Air France</a> increases its nonstop flights between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Phoenix-Sky Harbor starting in May.
The French airline began the connection between Paris and Phoenix on May 23, 2024, with three weekly flights. Initially, the service was operated with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with 279 seats. Due to the high demand for this route, Air France decided to increase capacity for the winter season by introducing Boeing 777-200ER aircraft with 328 seats.
By May 2025, the service will increase from three to five weekly flights and will be operated with Airbus A350-900 aircraft with 324 seats in three classes: 34 Business Class, 24 Premium, and 266 Economy. Flights will depart Paris at 10:45 and arrive in Phoenix at 12:50, then depart Phoenix at 15:05 to land in the French capital the following day at 10:10.
“Within a year of launching its service to Paris, Air France will have nearly doubled the capacity on the Phoenix-Paris route. The airline has been a fantastic addition to our airport, and we are grateful for their trust and investment in our market. This increase means our passengers will have more options and competitive fares not only to fly to France but also to the other 190 destinations Air France serves beyond Paris,” said Phoenix&#8217;s Director of Aviation, Chad Makovsky.
This route complements the existing transatlantic operations at Phoenix-Sky Harbor by American Airlines and British Airways from London-Heathrow and Condor from Frankfurt. Additionally, this increase in service facilitates connections in the United States with its codeshare partner Delta Air Lines and destinations in Europe and beyond with its sister airline, KLM.
International flights at Phoenix add more than $3 billion to the local economy annually, according to the airport&#8217;s latest economic impact study. The service, operated three times a week year-round, has an estimated annual economic impact of $70 million. With the increased frequency and aircraft size starting in May, the route will now have an estimated annual economic impact of $103 million statewide.
Air France in the United States also serves Atlanta, Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston-Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Miami, New York-JFK, Newark, Raleigh-Durham, San Francisco, Seattle-Tacoma, Washington-Dulles, and Orlando (starting May 21, 2025).
«Air France is very pleased with the Phoenix-Paris route, and we are excited to increase the frequency. This capacity increase symbolizes our commitment to enhancing transatlantic travel connections. We look forward to soon offering more passengers from Phoenix an experience that incorporates the best of French elegance,» said Boaz Hulsman, Vice President of North America Sales at Air France-KLM.
See also: <a style="color: #ffcc00;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/luxury-and-sustainability-air-france-introduces-award-winning-amenity-kits/">Air France presents its new sustainable and exclusive comfort kits for long-haul flights</a>

Air France Boosts Nonstop Service Between Paris and Phoenix

<a href="https://www.alaskaair.com/?srsltid=AfmBOor9OfUJyHsE-OzbZpW3m6gcB3COsEv7Tq7KhUhCz09UKDOY5xj0">Alaska Airlines</a> will have a new non-stop service between San Diego and Washington-National, the only airline to offer this route. This week, the United States Department of Transportation (DoT) granted approval for the airline&#8217;s request under the 2024 Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act.
«We are pleased that the DOT recognizes the value of Alaska providing direct service between San Diego and DCA, and we appreciate the numerous leaders, local businesses, and organizations that supported our proposal. This new route reflects our commitment to San Diego, home to the largest military community in the country, and offers our guests a seamless travel option to our nation&#8217;s capital,» said Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Airlines.
Since 2011, Alaska Airlines has operated flights to Washington-National, and currently offers non-stop services from Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, providing more than 5,500 weekly seats. 
Alaska Airlines is the airline with the most non-stop destinations from San Diego, offering a total of 40 and more than 70 daily flights. In collaboration with its global partners, the airline provides connections to more than 330 destinations with a single stop in San Diego. Currently, San Diego is the most in-demand destination from Washington-National without non-stop service.
«We are thrilled that Alaska Airlines has received approval to start non-stop service between San Diego International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. San Diego has been the largest origin-destination market without service to Reagan National Airport, with significant defense, biotechnology, and communications technology sectors that require efficient access to the heart of the national capital region,» said Kimberly J. Becker, President and CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority.
See also: <a href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/alaska-airlines-boosts-airbus-a321neo-flight-hours-amid-boeing-737-max-delays/">A321neo for 737 MAX: Alaska Airlines mitigates Boeing delivery delays by flying Airbus aircraft longer hours</a>

New Direct Route: Alaska Airlines Connects San Diego to Washington DCA

<a href="https://www.flyedelweiss.com/de/en/home.html">Edelweiss</a> has presented its schedule for the summer season of 2025, adding seven new destinations and increasing flights on existing routes, in some cases substantially.
Starting June 2, it will begin service to Seattle in the United States twice a week, and a twice-weekly connection to Halifax (Nova Scotia) in Canada will also be added starting July 3. This schedule will include service to Tbilisi in Georgia twice a week starting April 12, followed by Bristol in the United Kingdom starting June 2, also twice a week.
Additionally, there will be services to Terceira in the Azores with a weekly frequency starting June 25, Zadar in Croatia twice a week starting June 28, and Calvi in Corsica with a weekly frequency starting July 6. 
In the Mediterranean, there will be increased service to Sardinia with daily flights to Olbia and Cagliari. Services to Portugal have been increased to six weekly flights to Faro, eight weekly flights to Madeira, and three weekly flights to Ponta Delgada in the Azores.
The offer in Southeast Europe will also expand: it will fly twice daily to Pristina in Kosovo, Tivat in Montenegro with three weekly flights, and two weekly flights to Pula in Croatia.
In the UK schedule, there were up to ten weekly flights to Edinburgh (Scotland). The flight schedule for Iceland, Finland, and Norway will include new flights to Akureyri on Friday mornings, new services to Kittilä, and more convenient flight days to Tromsø.
In the United States, service to Tampa Bay (Florida) will operate five times a week, the connection to Las Vegas will continue with three weekly flights, and starting mid-May, the Airbus A350 will be introduced on the route. Additionally, the route to Denver will have four weekly flights.
In Canada, the service to Vancouver will operate daily, and starting in July, the Airbus A350 will be introduced, while the connection to Calgary will have three weekly flights.
Operations to Tanzania will also be boosted: Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar will have three weekly flights. During the summer, they are scheduled on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and in the fall on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays.
Edelweiss has a network of 93 vacation destinations in 37 countries in the summer 2025 flight schedule.

Edelweiss Expands Summer 2025 Schedule: Seven New Destinations Added

<a href="https://aviacionline.com/tag/aerolineas-argentinas-cargo/">Aerolíneas Argentinas Cargo</a> completed the transportation of an unusual and valuable shipment by delivering a Bugatti Chiron from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Montevideo (MVD), Uruguay. The operation was carried out aboard a Boeing 737-800 (BCF), registered as LV-KHQ.
The aircraft landed in Montevideo at 12:47 PM (local time) after a 9-hour and 37-minute flight, which included a stop in Lima. The exclusive vehicle, a <a href="https://www.bugatti.com/">Bugatti Chiron Sport «110 ans Bugatti»</a>, belonged to Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny. This model is one of only 20 units manufactured by the French automaker.
The operation was managed by Red Logistics, a company specializing in the transport of luxury automobiles, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/nicoovacca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nico Vacca</a>, who deals in sports cars in Miami.
<a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chiron.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349180" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chiron.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="1445" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Chiron.jpg 1200w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Chiron-249x300.jpg 249w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Chiron-747x900.jpg 747w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Chiron-768x925.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Chiron-150x181.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a>
Photo: Nico Vacca via Instagram
<figure id="attachment_349181" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-349181" style="width: 1190px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Bugatti.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349181" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Bugatti.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="1263" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Bugatti.jpg 1200w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Bugatti-285x300.jpg 285w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Bugatti-855x900.jpg 855w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Bugatti-768x808.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Bugatti-150x158.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-349181" class="wp-caption-text">This model is one of the 20 units manufactured by the French automaker (Photo: Instagram @nicovacca)</figcaption></figure>
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The car was acquired by businessman Oscar Fernández, an Argentine collector of sports cars, and will be showcased during the summer season in Punta del Este. Although the price of this Bugatti can reach 3.5 million dollars, the exact amount of the transaction has not been disclosed.
<h4>Aerolíneas Argentinas Cargo today</h4>
For Aerolíneas Argentinas Cargo, this operation represents an expansion of its experience in diversifying goods transportation. The airline operates regularly between Miami and Buenos Aires with its two Boeing 737 freighters, LV-CTC and LV-KHQ, conducting one to two weekly flights that sometimes include stops in Lima, Panama, Campinas/Viracopos, the Dominican Republic, and other destinations.
Additionally, in Argentina, the company works under logistics agreements to transport raw materials, such as salmon and seafood, from the southern regions of the country to El Calafate, Río Grande, and Ushuaia, as well as e-commerce goods.

Aerolíneas Argentinas Cargo Delivers Bugatti Chiron from Miami to Uruguay

United Airlines will increase its nonstop flights between Dublin and the United States for the summer 2025 season, boosting seat capacity with larger aircraft and adding frequencies on existing routes. In total, the airline will offer five daily flights and more than 7,300 weekly seats between the U.S. and the Irish capital, representing an increase of 40% compared to the previous summer.
The Chicago O’Hare-Dublin route will increase its capacity by replacing the Boeing 757-200 with the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which seats 243 passengers: 28 in Business Class, 21 in Premium Economy, 36 in Economy Plus, and 158 in Economy. In this segment, United competes with American Airlines and Aer Lingus, which also operate wide-body aircraft.
Meanwhile, the Washington-Dulles-Dublin service will add an additional flight, operating up to two daily frequencies. Both will be operated with Boeing 757-200, which offer 176 seats: 16 in Business Class (lie-flat seats), 42 in Economy Plus, and 118 in Economy. On this route, United competes exclusively with Aer Lingus, which also uses single-aisle aircraft.
During the summer season, United Airlines will operate two daily flights between Newark and Dublin using Boeing 777-200ER and 757-200 aircraft. The 777-200ER has a capacity of 276 passengers: 50 in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, 46 in Economy Plus, and 156 in Economy. In winter, the route will feature one daily frequency, operated with Boeing 767-400ER, configured with 231 seats: 34 in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, 48 in Economy Plus, and 125 in Economy.
The services to Dublin are complemented by seasonal flights from Newark and Chicago O’Hare to Shannon, also operated with Boeing 757-200. For summer 2025, United will offer 800 daily flights to 147 international destinations, including 40 exclusive routes among U.S. airlines. The company has operated in Ireland since 1998.
See also: <a href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/united-airlines-celebra-cinco-anos-volando-a-sudafrica/" target="_new" rel="noopener">United Airlines celebrates five years flying to South Africa</a>

United Airlines Increases Nonstop Flights to Dublin: New Frequencies and Aircraft Upgrades

Air Europa Express has requested approval from the United States Department of Transportation for the implementation of a codeshare agreement with Delta Air Lines, allowing Delta to place its “DL” code on flights operated by the Globalia airline subsidiary within European Union member states.
This codeshare complements the long-standing agreement between Air Europa and Delta Air Lines, which was authorized in September 2011. Both airlines will notify the DOT within 30 days prior to initiating any codeshare service to/from regions outside the European Union or on routes for which they do not hold any other authority.
Air Europa Express proposes to initiate the codeshare agreement once the necessary approvals have been obtained. This agreement aligns with the Open Skies treaty between the United States and the European Union, while Delta plans to provide codeshare services to additional destinations within the European Union.
See also: <a style="color: #ffcc00;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/sky-airline-partners-with-air-europa-simplified-travel-to-over-30-latin-american-destination/">Air Europa signs interline agreement with SKY and will offer daily flights between Madrid and Medellín</a>

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