The 45th International Tourism Fair, organized by IFEMA MADRID, concluded with excellent participation and attendance figures, far exceeding expectations. In a preliminary assessment, FITUR 2025 welcomed approximately 255,000 visitors, including 155,000 professionals during its first three days, reflecting significant growth compared to previous years.These results highlight the strong recovery of the global tourism industry, which, according to UNWTO, reached 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals in 2024. In line with this, Spain and Madrid recorded 94 million and 16 million visitors, respectively, achieving new milestones. Furthermore, global tourism revenues have climbed to $1.9 trillion, with Spain contributing €126 billion and €16 billion in the Community of Madrid.The success of FITUR 2025 underscores the sustained momentum in tourism, with projections indicating further growth in 2025, driven by strong demand. The event, held across nine pavilions, hosted over 9,500 companies from 156 countries, including 101 with official representation, distributed across 884 stands. This attendance generated an economic impact of €445 million for Madrid.Under the slogan “Proud. We Are Tourism,” the fair emphasized sustainability as a key pillar for the future of tourism. Experts highlighted the importance of diversification, deseasonalization, and technological integration in creating an inclusive, competitive, and sustainable tourism model. New types of tourism, such as sports, film, and language tourism, were identified as significant contributors to this evolution.The event was officially inaugurated on January 22 by the King and Queen of Spain, with Brazil as the Partner Country. The program featured cutting-edge trends, dynamic business operations, and the exchange of best practices to foster the sustainable development of the sector. IFEMA MADRID has already begun preparations for FITUR 2026, scheduled for January 21–25, with Mexico as the Partner Country.

FITUR 2025 Surpasses Expectations with 255,000 Visitors and Industry Growth

With the presence of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, the 45th edition of the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) was inaugurated today. The event, one of the leading global gatherings in the tourism sector, runs until Sunday, January 26, at the IFEMA Exhibition Center in Madrid.Organizers expect 250,000 visitors to attend over the four days, a figure comparable to last year. This includes 150,000 professionals participating in business and marketing sessions, while approximately 100,000 general attendees are anticipated during the weekend.The event features 9,500 companies, 156 countries, and 884 main exhibitors, marking a 10% increase compared to 2024. Participants are spread across nine pavilions, including a prominent stand from Argentina, located in Pavilion 3.Sources linked to the event told Aviacionline that Fitur 2025 has worked to attract new countries. This year, 101 official representations are present, five more than last year, with 11 new countries, primarily from Africa and Asia, joining the event.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/01/fitur_1.jpg" alt="Fitur"></figure>As always, Fitur offers an array of interactive activities organized by exhibitors. These include live musicals, gastronomy sessions, accessibility awareness workshops, craft demonstrations, and contests. Visitors can also access direct information about global tourism destinations.María Valcarce, Fitur's director, emphasized the fair’s role as a "driver for dialogue on sustainable and responsible tourism, a crucial priority for Spain and the global sector." She highlighted that the event reflects emerging trends, innovation, and opens doors to new business and travel opportunities.“The global tourism industry looks to Madrid at the start of each year, as the city becomes the epicenter of tourism. Fitur attracts thousands of professionals, companies, and media who see the event as a platform to promote their destinations, exchange knowledge, and foster best practices,” she noted.She also highlighted Spain’s dual role: as a leading destination market and a host for delegations worldwide, positioning the country as a bridge between cultures and markets. “Beyond immediate benefits, Fitur acts as a catalyst for international networking, facilitating agreements between companies and governments, and generating long-term opportunities,” Valcarce concluded.

Fitur 2025: Madrid Becomes the Global Epicenter of Tourism

Today marked the twentieth anniversary of one of the greatest natural disasters in history. On the morning of December 26, 2004, a devastating magnitude 9.3 earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, followed by a tsunami that impacted dozens of countries in the Indian Ocean, resulting in a tragic toll of 250,000 lives lost.
Beyond the human impact, the catastrophe also deeply affected the aviation sector, especially in the hardest-hit countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and Maldives, where airports played a crucial role in rescue and evacuation operations.
Banda Aceh was the most affected city due to its proximity to the epicenter. The airport was partially rendered unusable by the earthquake and flooding. Although it was quickly rehabilitated, operations faced challenges, including incidents such as a cargo Boeing 737 colliding with a water buffalo that had wandered onto the runway.
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The airport on Simeulue Island was severely damaged. After the tsunami, only an improvised helipad was made available for humanitarian aid operations. It was rebuilt in 2007, following its destruction once again during the Nias-Simeulue earthquake in 2005.
Phuket and Krabi Airports, though unaffected by the earthquake and tsunami, were essential as rescue and evacuation hubs for thousands of tourists in one of the regions most impacted by the tsunami.
One of the most striking images of the tragedy was the Male International Airport in Maldives, completely flooded, with its runway and apron submerged. Despite this, structural damage was minimal. Aircraft such as a Boeing 767 from Malev Hungarian Airlines, an A330 from Edelweiss Air, and planes from SriLankan Airlines, Emirates, and Alitalia were stranded at the airport during the catastrophe.
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Coastal destinations in Thailand, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Seychelles experienced a drop in the air travel market over the following two years. Phuket and Maldives managed to recover quickly through reconstruction investments and marketing campaigns to attract tourists.
<h3>ICAO highlights tsunami risks at airports</h3>
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) conducted studies on airport vulnerability to tsunamis, identifying 1,741 airfields within three nautical miles of the coast as potentially exposed. Of these, 32 airports were categorized as highly vulnerable, while 14 airports face significant risks due to their proximity to active tsunami zones.
Among the most exposed airports, data from similar disasters between 1996 and 2016 show that Japan ranks among the countries most affected, due to its geographic location within the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Although the risk is lower compared to Asia, four Mexican airports (Bahía Huatulco, Ciudad del Carmen, Minatitlán, and Villahermosa) have experienced tsunami-related damage.

20 Years After the 2004 Tsunami: Aviation’s Role in One of the Deadliest Natural Disasters

Following recent concerns that the German company Lilium, a manufacturer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, might close its doors without reaching an agreement to save it from bankruptcy, an announcement this Christmas Eve brings relief to the company.
Lilium announced today, December 24, the signing of an asset purchase agreement with Mobile Uplift Corporation GmbH, a company founded by an experienced consortium of investors from Europe and North America. Mobile intends to acquire the operational assets of Lilium GmbH and Lilium eAircraft GmbH subsidiaries.
Subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions precedent, Lilium expects the Agreement to position the Subsidiaries to obtain sufficient financing to restart their commercial operations. The proceeds received from the sale will be used in accordance with German Insolvency Law, with no proceeds being distributed to Lilium N.V.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-349992 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Lilium-Jet-eVTOL-24122401.jpg" alt="" width="1300" height="867" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Lilium-Jet-eVTOL-24122401.jpg 1300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Lilium-Jet-eVTOL-24122401-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Lilium-Jet-eVTOL-24122401-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Lilium-Jet-eVTOL-24122401-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1300px) 100vw, 1300px" />
As reported by <a href="https://aeroin.net/fabricante-da-aeronave-que-a-azul-quer-usar-lilium-assina-acordo-para-salvar-seu-negocio-da-falencia/">Aeroin</a>, KPMG has held discussions with potential investors who have shown interest in the assets and/or businesses of the Subsidiaries. These interests were considered by the creditor committee of Lilium GmbH as part of the mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;A) process led by KPMG, aimed at the financial restructuring of Lilium GmbH.
Following the closure, the parties intend to implement the planned restructuring of the Subsidiaries, with the aim of enabling them to exit their self-administration processes. On December 20, 2024, the Subsidiaries terminated the contracts of their remaining employees in accordance with German law.
Confirmation of the agreement is currently expected in early January 2025 and is subject to the fulfillment of certain customary conditions precedent, including the opening of the procedure and the consent of the creditor committee.
«We are very pleased to announce the signing of an investment agreement with a highly experienced consortium of investors, which represents a significant step forward,» said Klaus Roewe, CEO of Lilium. «Closing the deal in early January will allow us to restart our business.»
The aircraft developed by Lilium, named the Lilium Jet, was chosen by the Brazilian company Azul Linhas Aéreas for its air mobility plans in Brazil.

Lilium Finds Lifeline: Asset Purchase Agreement Signed to Avoid Bankruptcy

Arajet celebrated the second anniversary of its social responsibility program “Pilot for a Day”.
The initiative aims to inspire children and young people from vulnerable communities to take an interest in the world of commercial aviation, promoting their educational and professional development.
<article>In this edition, more than 20 teenagers from Liceo Emiliano Tejera in Salcedo, Hermanas Mirabal Province, visited <a href="https://www.arajet.com">Arajet</a>&#8216;s offices in Santo Domingo. They were welcomed by Víctor Pacheco Méndez, the airline&#8217;s CEO and founder, who shared the company&#8217;s history and proudly highlighted its beginnings and achievements.</article>
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<article>During the day, the young participants toured key areas of the operation, including a meeting with crew members and a visit to the hangar at the Las Américas International Airport, where they met the maintenance team, explored the cockpit of a Boeing 737 MAX named «Pico Duarte,» and enjoyed activities designed to bring them closer to and inspire them to be part of the aviation sector in the future. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-349928 size-large" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Victor-Pacheco-Mendez-CEO-y-Fundador-de-Arajet-recibe-a-los-ninos-de-Salcedo-1121x900.jpg" alt="" width="1121" height="900" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Victor-Pacheco-Mendez-CEO-y-Fundador-de-Arajet-recibe-a-los-ninos-de-Salcedo-1121x900.jpg 1121w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Victor-Pacheco-Mendez-CEO-y-Fundador-de-Arajet-recibe-a-los-ninos-de-Salcedo-300x241.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Victor-Pacheco-Mendez-CEO-y-Fundador-de-Arajet-recibe-a-los-ninos-de-Salcedo-768x617.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Victor-Pacheco-Mendez-CEO-y-Fundador-de-Arajet-recibe-a-los-ninos-de-Salcedo-1536x1233.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Victor-Pacheco-Mendez-CEO-y-Fundador-de-Arajet-recibe-a-los-ninos-de-Salcedo-2048x1644.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Victor-Pacheco-Mendez-CEO-y-Fundador-de-Arajet-recibe-a-los-ninos-de-Salcedo-150x120.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1121px) 100vw, 1121px" /> Our visit not only included experiencing this event and getting to know Arajet&#8217;s offices but also a cultural experience in the city of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. Founded in 1502, Santo Domingo is the first city in the Americas and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its cobblestone streets and walled historic center transported us back to the colonial era. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-349937 size-large" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.50-PM-1200x900.jpeg" alt="" width="1200" height="900" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.50-PM-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.50-PM-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.50-PM-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.50-PM-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.50-PM-150x113.jpeg 150w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.50-PM.jpeg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />We had the opportunity to stay at the iconic Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando, the former residence of Nicolás de Ovando, governor of the Spanish colony. Located on Calle de Las Damas, the first paved street in the New World, the hotel is surrounded by historic sites such as the Casa de Diego Colón (brother of Christopher Columbus), the Museum of the Royal Houses, and the First Catholic Cathedral of the Americas.
Other noteworthy places include the restaurant at the Bellini Hotel and the delightful dishes at the Larimar restaurant, featuring beautiful decor inspired by a variety of pectolite, a mineral found only in Barahona Province, in the southern region of the Dominican Republic, stunning with its shades of blue.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-349938 size-large aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1-675x900.jpeg" alt="" width="675" height="900" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1-675x900.jpeg 675w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1-640x853.jpeg 640w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1-150x200.jpeg 150w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.45-PM-1.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 675px) 100vw, 675px" />
<figure id="attachment_349930" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-349930" style="width: 1190px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-349930 size-large" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.48-PM-1200x900.jpeg" alt="Calle de las Damas, Santo Domingo" width="1200" height="900" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.48-PM-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.48-PM-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.48-PM-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.48-PM-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.48-PM-150x113.jpeg 150w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.47.48-PM.jpeg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-349930" class="wp-caption-text">Calle de las Damas, Santo Domingo</figcaption></figure>
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<h2>Building the future of aviation talent</h2>
Since its inception, the “Pilot for a Day” program has benefited nearly 1,000 children and young people from vulnerable areas of the Dominican Republic. Víctor Pacheco Méndez remarked that this project seeks to give children the opportunity to learn about their flagship airline and motivate them to prepare academically to become part of the aviation sector. “We want to share our passion for aviation so that, in the future, these children can join Arajet and lead important areas of the sector,” he said.
Through this initiative, Arajet not only reinforces its social responsibility but also invests in the development of its community and the promising future of aviation in the Dominican Republic.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-349936 size-large" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG_9728-1350x900.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="800" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_9728-1350x900.jpg 1350w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_9728-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_9728-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_9728-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_9728-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_9728-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-349931" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.38.28-PM.jpeg" alt="" width="1280" height="960" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.38.28-PM.jpeg 1280w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.38.28-PM-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.38.28-PM-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.38.28-PM-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.38.28-PM-150x113.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-349932" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.37.18-PM.jpeg" alt="" width="960" height="1280" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.37.18-PM.jpeg 960w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.37.18-PM-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.37.18-PM-675x900.jpeg 675w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.37.18-PM-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.37.18-PM-640x853.jpeg 640w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.37.18-PM-150x200.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-349934 size-large" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.35.34-PM-1200x900.jpeg" alt="" width="1200" height="900" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.35.34-PM-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.35.34-PM-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.35.34-PM-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.35.34-PM-150x113.jpeg 150w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-23-at-9.35.34-PM.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-349935 size-large" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/IMG_0218-1350x900.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="800" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_0218-1350x900.jpg 1350w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_0218-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_0218-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_0218-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_0218-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/IMG_0218-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
</article>

«Arajet’s ‘Pilot for a Day’ Program Marks Two Years of Inspiring Aviation Dreams»

<a href="https://news.archer.com/">Archer Aviation Inc</a>. announced the completion of its first mass production plant for its new eVTOL, located next to Covington Municipal Airport, Georgia. With the certification already issued, the company will begin tool installation and plans to start manufacturing the new aircraft in 2025, reaching a production rate of two aircraft per month by the end of the same year.
This plant will be the production hub, covering approximately 350,000 square meters, for the Midnight, Archer&#8217;s fully electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The ARC plant was developed in collaboration with Stellantis, which contributes capital, manufacturing expertise, and specialized personnel. The joint goal is to scale production to 650 aircraft per year by 2030.
“Supporting Archer&#8217;s growth in the electric aircraft sector with our manufacturing expertise is a unique opportunity. This milestone marks an important step toward clean mobility in the skies,” emphasized Arnaud Deboeuf, Stellantis&#8217; manufacturing and supply chain director.
The completion of ARC has been welcomed as a breakthrough for both the aviation sector and Georgia&#8217;s economic development. “This announcement reaffirms our commitment to innovative companies like Archer, creating quality jobs and opportunities for Georgians,” highlighted the state governor, Brian Kemp.
“Archer’s plant in Covington positions Georgia as a leader in innovation, advanced manufacturing, and job creation. This project will transform aviation and benefit the state’s economy,” added Congressman Mike Collins.
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<h3>Production of Archer&#8217;s Midnight</h3>
The Midnight aircraft, to be produced at ARC, is an eVTOL designed to be quiet, safe, and sustainable, offering an efficient alternative to ground transportation in congested cities. Archer aims to lead the transition of the aviation industry from research and development to the commercialization of electric aircraft.
“The completion of this facility demonstrates the state of the industry, moving toward commercialization. Our focus now is on production and scaling. I am proud of the team for completing this project on budget and in record time,” emphasized Archer CEO Adam Goldstein.
The eVTOL is designed to provide transportation alternatives in densely populated urban environments. Archer aims to transform urban travel by replacing 60–90 minute car journeys with 10–20 minute flights in electric air taxis.

Archer Aviation Completes First eVTOL Mass Production Plant in Georgia

The international technology company Prosus announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Despegar, the leading digital travel agency of Argentine origin in Latin America, at a price of $19.50 per share (totaling a value of USD 1.7 billion). This amount represents a 33% premium over the closing price of the shares as of December 20, 2024, and a 34% premium relative to the weighted average of the last 90 days.
Despegar&#8217;s Executive Committee approved the transaction and recommended that its shareholders vote in favor, based on the unanimous assessment of a specialized commission. According to Prosus, this acquisition aims to strengthen its presence in Latin America, expanding its regional ecosystem to more than 100 million customers in the sectors of e-commerce, travel, and financial technology.
<h3>A strategic transaction for both companies</h3>
«Despegar is a highly profitable company with an attractive market position and an experienced leadership team,» said Fabricio Bloisi, CEO of Prosus. «We will accelerate its growth by leveraging our operational expertise and AI capabilities,» he added.
Meanwhile, Despegar&#8217;s CEO, Damián Scokin, stated, «Prosus is the ideal partner to take us to the next phase of growth. For our customers, this means access to a broader portfolio of services and solutions tailored to their needs.»
Founded in Argentina in 1999, Despegar operates in more than 19 markets across Latin America and processes over 9.5 million annual transactions, with revenues of $706 million and an EBITDA of $116 million, according to its 2023 financial report.
<h3>Synergies with Prosus’ portfolio</h3>
According to Prosus, the acquisition will create synergies with other companies in the group, such as iFood, a delivery platform with over 60 million annual customers, and Sympla, a prominent event organization service. Additionally, the company plans to enhance user engagement and add new products and services to the Despegar platform.
«Latin America is a market we know well, with promising opportunities in the online travel sector. This investment is an example of how we integrate businesses into our ecosystem to generate value and sustainable growth,» added Bloisi.
The transaction is subject to approval by Despegar&#8217;s shareholders and relevant regulatory authorities. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025. The purchase price will be paid using Prosus&#8217; liquid funds.
Morgan Stanley &amp; Co. International acted as exclusive financial advisor to Prosus, while Davis Polk &amp; Wardell LLP provided legal advice on the transaction.

Prosus to Acquire Despegar.com for $1.7 Billion in Landmark Deal

Air France will introduce new comfort kits in its La Première, Business, and Premium cabins for long-haul flights, highlighting a combination of elegance, functionality, and a focus on sustainability by using recycled materials.
<h3>La Première: award-winning luxury on board</h3>
In the La Première cabin, passengers will receive an exclusive gift box that has been awarded the Gold Award at the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Awards 2024. Available in the airline&#8217;s signature colors – Air France red and pearl gray – the design features the embossed winged seahorse, a historical symbol of the company.
The kit’s contents were developed in collaboration with Sisley, the renowned French phyto-cosmetics brand. The box includes:
<ul>
<li>Restorative hand cream,</li>
<li>Eye contour balm,</li>
<li>Intensive hydrating serum Hydra-Global,</li>
<li>Anti-aging cream “All Day, All Year.”</li>
</ul>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349002 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2-Coffret-La-Premiere-©Air-France.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/2-Coffret-La-Premiere-©Air-France.jpg 1920w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/2-Coffret-La-Premiere-©Air-France-300x169.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/2-Coffret-La-Premiere-©Air-France-1600x900.jpg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/2-Coffret-La-Premiere-©Air-France-768x432.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/2-Coffret-La-Premiere-©Air-France-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/2-Coffret-La-Premiere-©Air-France-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" />
Additionally, passengers will find a La Première pen, a wooden comb, earplugs, and a sleep mask, elements designed to offer maximum comfort.
<h3>Business: modern design and recycled materials</h3>
In the Business cabin, Air France presents two kit models, both made with over 90% recycled materials. Inspired by the airline&#8217;s colors, the designs feature navy blue and white tones with red accents and the winged seahorse symbol.
Each kit contains:
<ul>
<li>Earplugs,</li>
<li>Sleep mask made with recycled material,</li>
<li>Bamboo toothbrush and organic toothpaste,</li>
<li>Clarins beauty products: “Beauty Flash” balm and mattifying hydrating gel in travel size,</li>
<li>Kraft pen and socks made with recycled materials.</li>
</ul>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349004 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/5-Trousse-Business-©Air-France.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/5-Trousse-Business-©Air-France.jpg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/5-Trousse-Business-©Air-France-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/5-Trousse-Business-©Air-France-1350x900.jpg 1350w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/5-Trousse-Business-©Air-France-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/5-Trousse-Business-©Air-France-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/5-Trousse-Business-©Air-France-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" />
<h3>Premium: simplicity and sustainability</h3>
In the Premium cabin, Air France offers a simple and elegant kit, available in Air France blue and horizon blue, with embroidered details and a red accent on the zipper. As in Business class, the kit is made with over 90% recycled materials.
The contents include:
<ul>
<li>Earplugs,</li>
<li>Toothbrush and toothpaste,</li>
<li>Socks made with recycled materials,</li>
<li>Sleep mask.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

Luxury and Sustainability: Air France Introduces Award-Winning Amenity Kits

<a href="https://www.eveairmobility.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Eve Air Mobility</a>, the air mobility company created by Embraer, secured a new credit line of 200 million reais (~USD 37 million) from the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). This financing, announced on December 2, will bolster the development of its electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL).
According to our associated media in Brazil, <a href="https://aeroin.net/eve-recebe-mais-r-200-milhoes-do-bndes-para-apoiar-o-desenvolvimento-da-aeronave-evtol-em-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AEROIN</a>, this new phase of financial support adds to a previous line of 490 million reais (~USD 81 million) granted in 2022 for research and development, as well as a recent USD 50 million investment from Citibank, both aimed at driving Eve&#8217;s eVTOL program forward.
The BNDES resources, sourced from the Climate Fund, will be used to manufacture new prototypes, build the commercial model, and carry out the flight test campaign. “The continued support from BNDES is essential for the advancement of our eVTOL program and the transition toward certification and production. This financing further strengthens our financial position and enables us to achieve key milestones, including certification and commercialization of our eVTOL,” emphasized Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve.
For his part, Eduardo Couto, the company&#8217;s CFO, highlighted that this financing reinforces its leadership in the urban air mobility market, stating that “our disciplined capital management and solid financial base provide the stability needed to execute our long-term strategic plan.”
Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) also marked a significant milestone by publishing the final airworthiness criteria for Eve’s eVTOL. This step will allow the company to continue defining the means of compliance required for the certification of its aircraft.
“We are supporting a disruptive and green industry that strengthens energy transition and the national industry. This year, the Bank has already approved 700 million reais for the production of this aircraft,” added Aloizio Mercadante, president of BNDES.
Eve leverages Embraer’s more than five decades of experience in the design, certification, and manufacturing of advanced aircraft, ensuring its future customers access to a global network of services and support essential for safe and efficient operations in the urban air mobility market.

Eve Air Mobility Strengthens Financial Position with $37M Boost from BNDES

An Airbus A340-600 with registration 5N-AAM, originally operated by Virgin Atlantic and later acquired by Nigerian airline Azman Air, may have been transferred to Iran in a triangulation maneuver perfected by Tehran authorities to circumvent Western sanctions.
This model, known for its capability on intercontinental routes, has been involved in similar maneuvers in the past, with other A340 aircraft joining the Iranian fleet through indirect routes and the evasion of international sanctions.
The 5N-AAM, acquired by Azman Air in 2020, was reconfigured to transport 413 passengers and used for routes to Saudi Arabia, primarily during pilgrimage seasons, as well as domestic flights in Nigeria. In 2024, the 5N-AAM flew regularly until Azman Air ceased operations in August. The aircraft was parked at Kano Airport until it took off on November 15, turning off its transponder as it entered Iranian airspace.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-346084 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-25-121305.png" alt="Iran Azman Air N5-AAM Airbus A340" width="1235" height="835" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/11/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-25-121305.png 1235w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/11/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-25-121305-300x203.png 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/11/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-25-121305-768x519.png 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/11/Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-25-121305-150x101.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1235px) 100vw, 1235px" />
The Airbus A340-600 is one of the longest commercial aircraft in the world, measuring 75.36 meters in length. It can carry between 320 and 370 passengers (Azman Air&#8217;s configuration is the highest known, high-density and designed for short trips but with record seating capacity), and its maximum range of 14,450 kilometers makes it ideal for long-haul routes. Powered by four Rolls-Royce Trent 500 engines, this aircraft combines range and capacity in high-demand markets.
Iran has previously acquired A340 aircraft in similar operations in recent years. In December 2022, four Airbus A340-300 aircraft stored in South Africa were re-registered in Burkina Faso before flying to Iran. Although their flight plans indicated Uzbekistan as their destination, the aircraft landed in Tehran. In February 2024, two other A340-300s departed from Lithuania with declared destinations in Sri Lanka and the Philippines. Both turned off their transponders upon entering Iranian airspace and landed in Tehran and Chabahar.
The arrival of these aircraft, along with the possible transfer of the A340-600 5N-AAM, clearly indicates Iran&#8217;s strategy of using indirect routes and registration changes to continue renewing its fleets while evading international sanctions that restrict access to modern aircraft.

Again?: How an Airbus A340-600 Circumvented Sanctions to Reach Iran

As the situation in Lebanon deteriorates due to the advance of Israel&#8217;s ground offensive on southern parts of the country and the intensification of bombardments against Hezbollah targets, several countries intensified their efforts to evacuate their citizens.
Many embassies are using their social networks to communicate evacuation guidance and warnings to their respective citizens, which is mainly carried out by air, taking advantage of the fact that Beirut&#8217;s Rafic Hariri International Airport is still operational.
<h3>Actions taken by different countries for the evacuation of their citizens:</h3>
<h4>Colombia</h4>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-339382" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/vuelo1.png" alt="Evacuación Líbano" width="1280" height="718" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/09/vuelo1.png 1280w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/09/vuelo1-300x168.png 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/09/vuelo1-768x431.png 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/09/vuelo1-150x84.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" />
On September 28, 2024, a Boeing 737 of the Colombian Air Force (FAC) was deployed from the Military Air Transport Command (CATAM) in Bogota. The objective of this mission is to return 114 Colombians to Colombia, as well as to transport humanitarian aid to Beirut. The FAC also put on alert a Boeing 767 as an alternative aircraft.
<h4>Spain</h4>
The Spanish Air and Space Force deployed an A400M and an A330 to manage the return of at least 350 people wishing to travel back to Spain. The first repatriation flight has already landed in Torrejón.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
? Última hora 
Preparado para despegar desde Beirut <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/L%C3%ADbano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Líbano</a> el <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A400?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A400</a> del <a href="https://twitter.com/EjercitoAire?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EjercitoAire</a> con un nuevo grupo de civiles a bordo. Tanto esta aeronave como el <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A330?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A330</a>, que partió previamente, vuelan en estos momentos rumbo a España. ¡Os esperamos! <a href="https://t.co/3LmWD1h6sd">pic.twitter.com/3LmWD1h6sd</a>
— Ministerio Defensa (@Defensagob) <a href="https://twitter.com/Defensagob/status/1841812089024761910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h4>Argentina</h4>
The Argentine embassy in Lebanon advises its citizens to try to leave the country by their own means, as long as the Beirut international airport is operational.
<h4>EE.UU.</h4>
As of September 28, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut declared Security Alert Level 4, and asked its approximately 86,000 citizens to leave Lebanon on commercial flights. There is no information yet on an eventual evacuation by USAF military aircrafts, but it is known that it has military forces deployed in Cyprus preparing for such a scenario.
<h4>Australia</h4>
Canberra urges its citizens in Lebanon to return immediately. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “We reiterate the call for Australians in Lebanon to return home. These are volatile circumstances and we want to make sure they are safe.” In addition, the Australian government is providing financial assistance to some of its nationals, estimating that around 15,000 Australians currently reside in Lebanon.
<h4>United Kingdom</h4>
Foreign Secretary David Lammy advising Britons to leave the country. Lammy announced that the government will arrange charter flights from Beirut airport, although citizens will have to pay a fee of 350 pounds (approximately $465) per seat. It is estimated that between 4,000 and 6,000 British nationals are in Lebanon.
<h4>France</h4>
Paris began planning for the evacuation of its approximately 20,000 French citizens from Lebanon. A French army spokesman confirmed the deployment of a helicopter carrier to the eastern Mediterranean for possible evacuations, following Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot&#8217;s recent meeting with the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon.
<h4>Canada</h4>
Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said the security situation is becoming “increasingly dangerous and volatile.” Canada has secured an additional 800 seats on commercial flights in the coming days to facilitate the departure of its citizens, estimated at between 40,000 and 75,000 in Lebanon.
<h4>Germany</h4>
The evacuation process of its non-essential personnel and citizens at medical risk has begun. The Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense stated that they will provide assistance to the approximately 1,800 German citizens registered in Lebanon, with a first evacuation flight having already taken place.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Unsere <a href="https://twitter.com/A330_MMU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@A330_MMU</a> ist jetzt gerade im Auftrag des <a href="https://twitter.com/AuswaertigesAmt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AuswaertigesAmt</a> und <a href="https://twitter.com/BMVg_Bundeswehr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BMVg_Bundeswehr</a> im Einsatz, um 130 Personen aus dem Libanon auszufliegen. Die Maschine befindet sich momentan auf dem Heimflug.
Hier unser Artikel dazu:<a href="https://t.co/iEQ6fX7xrl">https://t.co/iEQ6fX7xrl</a> <a href="https://t.co/b4JbZrtDkA">pic.twitter.com/b4JbZrtDkA</a>
— Team Luftwaffe (@Team_Luftwaffe) <a href="https://twitter.com/Team_Luftwaffe/status/1841502445844795484?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h4>Italy</h4>
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stressed the complexity of the situation and advised Italians to return as soon as possible. It is estimated that there are around 300 Italians in Lebanon for work purposes and 3,000 with dual nationality.
<h4>Bulgaria</h4>
The country managed to evacuate 89 citizens, mainly families with children, and is organizing additional flights to continue the operation. So far, 160 Bulgarians have requested to be evacuated.
<h4>Japan</h4>
The Japanese government is urging its citizens to leave on commercial flights and is preparing military aircrafts in case they are needed for evacuation. Approximately 50 Japanese are currently residing in Lebanon.
<h4>Philippines</h4>
Plans to evacuate 11,000 of its citizens are underway, with thousands of people to be transferred by sea.
<h4>Portugal</h4>
Lisbon was already able to evacuate 44 people on a military flight via Cyprus, and Turkey. There are approximately 14,000 registered citizens in Lebanon to be evacuated.
<h4>Russia</h4>
It has already started the evacuation of its citizens and a special flight with family members of Russian diplomats left Beirut. About 3,000 Russian and CIS citizens wish to leave the country.
<h4>Poland</h4>
It will limit staffing at its embassy in Beirut and arrange transportation for citizens wishing to leave Lebanon.
<h4>Netherlands</h4>
A military aircraft will be sent to repatriate its nationals in two flights scheduled for October 4 and 5.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Defensie biedt komende dagen militair luchttransport aan voor de repatriëring van Nederlanders uit Libanon. Vluchten zijn gepland op 4 en 5 oktober.
We treffen ook voorbereidingen voor een eventuele evacuatie en monitoren de situatie in Israël: ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/iFmsWq3fAw">https://t.co/iFmsWq3fAw</a> <a href="https://t.co/caDAgnCFSo">pic.twitter.com/caDAgnCFSo</a>
— Ruben Brekelmans (@DefensieMin) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefensieMin/status/1841350960754360648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h4>Cyprus</h4>
It managed to evacuate 38 of its citizens on a flight provided by Greece and Denmark. It urges its citizens to leave as soon as possible on the commercial flights still available.
<h4>China</h4>
It was able to evacuate more than 200 of its citizens.
<h4>Belgium</h4>
It advises its nationals to leave Lebanon as soon as possible.
The humanitarian crisis in southern Lebanon is worsening by the day, with nearly one million people displaced due to clashes between the Israel Defense Forces and Hezbollah. While the situation does not reach the levels of traumatizing chaos we saw in the 2021 evacuation of Kabul, escalating tensions and Iranian missile attacks threaten to destabilize the entire Middle East region.

Israel-Hezbollah conflict: several countries begin evacuating their citizens from Lebanon

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted Boom Supersonic&#8216;s XB-1 a special authorization to exceed Mach 1, shortly after the jet’s inaugural flight on March 22, 2024, at the Mojave Air &amp; Space Port in California. The authorization allows XB-1 to perform supersonic test flights later this year in the Black Mountain Supersonic Corridor in Mojave, CA.
The jet&#8217;s test flights will occur in the R-2508 Complex and will extend into the High Altitude Supersonic Corridor within the R-2515 airspace, areas used extensively for research and military aeronautical operations.
The FAA&#8217;s Special Flight Authorization (SFA) was granted following a thorough Environmental Assessment, also extending to chase plane aircraft that will monitor the XB-1 during its supersonic endeavors.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-241987 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1.jpg" alt="" width="1440" height="810" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1.jpg 1440w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1-747x420.jpg 747w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1-696x392.jpg 696w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1-1068x601.jpg 1068w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/xb-1-takes-flight-photo-essay-17-1440x810-1-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1440px) 100vw, 1440px" />
Boom Supersonic’s founder and CEO Blake Scholl expressed gratitude towards the FAA for its innovation support, emphasizing the XB-1&#8217;s crucial role in shaping the future of supersonic travel. “Following XB-1’s successful first flight, I’m looking forward to its historic first supersonic flight,” said Scholl.
The test program includes an extensive schedule designed to expand the jet’s flight envelope through and beyond Mach 1, involving 10 to 20 flights. The flights aim to confirm performance and handling qualities, including in-flight checks of all systems and multiple test points demonstrating safe margins to flutter (vibration) boundaries.
Test Pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg, who previously monitored XB-1&#8217;s initial flight in a Northrop T-38 chase aircraft, will pilot XB-1 in its first supersonic flight. Brandenburg, a seasoned pilot with over 2,500 flight hours in 30 different aircraft, highlighted the significance of the flights.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-241988 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Geppetto-1440x960-1.jpg" alt="" width="1440" height="960" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/Geppetto-1440x960-1.jpg 1440w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/Geppetto-1440x960-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/Geppetto-1440x960-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/Geppetto-1440x960-1-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1440px) 100vw, 1440px" />
“Being in the air with XB-1 during its maiden flight is a moment I will never forget. The team has worked hard to reach this point, and seeing today’s flight through to mission completion is a huge accomplishment for all of us”, he said.
<blockquote class="wp-embedded-content" data-secret="cU7t5Eucyq"><a href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/03/new-era-boom-supersonic-makes-the-first-successful-flight-of-the-xb-1-demonstrator/">New era: Boom Supersonic makes the first successful flight of the XB-1 demonstrator</a></blockquote>
<iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" style="position: absolute; visibility: hidden;" title="«New era: Boom Supersonic makes the first successful flight of the XB-1 demonstrator» — Aviacionline - Últimas noticias de aviación en Latinoamérica y el Caribe, España y el mundo" src="https://aviacionline.com/2024/03/new-era-boom-supersonic-makes-the-first-successful-flight-of-the-xb-1-demonstrator/embed/#?secret=XsEybb7rVA#?secret=cU7t5Eucyq" data-secret="cU7t5Eucyq" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"></iframe>
Upcoming tests for the XB-1 include retraction and extension of the landing gear, evaluating the sideslip and angle of attack, and employing the dampers or stability augmentation system for the first time. The subsequent flights will assess XB-1’s flutter excitation system, crucial for ensuring stability at high speeds.
The Mojave Air &amp; Space Port, adjacent to the vast R-2508 Complex, provides an ideal location for these groundbreaking tests. This area has a rich history of aerospace achievements, including the first breaking of the sound barrier in 1947 and numerous other speed and altitude records.

Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 Cleared for Supersonic Test Flights by FAA

After an Argentine court supported a request from the United States to confiscate the Boeing 747-300M of EMTRASUR Cargo held in Buenos Aires for almost two years, the Venezuelan government issued a harsh statement yesterday Wednesday (3) expressing its rejection of the decision, which it defined as «servile to imperial interests» to «consummate the theft of the aircraft«, promising diplomatic actions for what they interpret as an «act of hostility«.
<blockquote class="wp-embedded-content" data-secret="cI2RtLvPsh"><a href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/01/argentine-court-grants-u-s-request-to-seize-iranian-venezuelan-boeing-747-300m-suspected-of-espionage/">Argentine court grants U.S. request to seize Iranian-Venezuelan Boeing 747-300M suspected of espionage</a></blockquote>
<iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" style="position: absolute; visibility: hidden;" title="«Argentine court grants U.S. request to seize Iranian-Venezuelan Boeing 747-300M suspected of espionage» — Aviacionline - Últimas noticias de aviación en Latinoamérica y el Caribe, España y el mundo" src="https://aviacionline.com/2024/01/argentine-court-grants-u-s-request-to-seize-iranian-venezuelan-boeing-747-300m-suspected-of-espionage/embed/#?secret=Qp1LzOtsyY#?secret=cI2RtLvPsh" data-secret="cI2RtLvPsh" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"></iframe>
<a href="http://aviacionline.com/2022/06/a-venezuelan-boeing-747-with-ties-to-iran-is-detained-in-argentina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Boeing 747-300M EP-MND was detained at Ezeiza airport on June 8, 2022</a> after «administrative irregularities» were detected in the manifest and it was decided to investigate the crew, made up of Venezuelan and Iranian citizens, for alleged links to terrorist groups.
«With this illegal decision, the Argentine State submits to the powers of American imperialism and flagrantly violates the Convention on International Civil Aviation, the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, the United Nations Charter, the Bilateral Convention between the Argentine Republic and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, and other agreements related to International Air Navigation and Human Rights,» reads the government statement.
The administration of Nicolás Maduro claims to have demonstrated «before all international legal and political instances the legal and legitimate possession» of the Boeing 747-300M, and says that «the behavior of pillage, piracy, and vassalage of the Argentine justice and government, transgress their own legislation and turn said nation into a serious violator of international legality in commercial and aeronautical matters«.
The United States, for its part, asserts that the plane was transferred by the Iranian airline Mahan Air to the Venezuelan EMTRASUR, and then to other countries like Russia and back to Iran, violating a law that prohibits dealings with entities suspected of terrorism.
«In 2008, the Department of Commerce issued, and since then has periodically renewed, a Temporary Denial Order that prohibits Mahan Air, among other things, from conducting any transaction related to any merchandise exported from the United States that is subject to the Export Administration Regulations,” <a href="http://aviacionline.com/2023/05/emtrasurs-747-detained-in-buenos-aires-us-attorney-requests-immediate-execution-of-seizure/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Department of Justice stated in August 2022</a>.
«The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela will take all legal, diplomatic, and political measures to safeguard the rights that assist it«, continues the statement, going further by alerting the international community, but «especially the Latin American countries, that any illegal measure that allows the overflight and support to consummate this theft will be duly interpreted as an act of hostility, in support of the vandalic behavior against a sovereign country«.
<h3>The story of EMTRASUR&#8217;s «Iranian» 747</h3>
The Boeing 747-300M of EMTRASUR was originally delivered to UTA -Union de Transports Aériens- in January 1986, where it operated until the closure of the company in 1992, when it was incorporated into Air France.
It was retired from service in 2006 and sold to Mahan Air in 2007. In March 2008, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Treasury Department sanctioned Mahan Air for “providing support to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force (IRGC-QF) of Iran”
In early 2022, the state-owned company Conviasa announced its plans for international expansion: and for this, a significant increase in the fleet was being prepared. In addition to passenger commercial operations, a new cargo division was created: Emtrasur Cargo. Soon its first aircraft was announced. A Boeing 747-300M, previously operated by Mahan Air. The aircraft was incorporated with the registration EP-MND and named “Luisa Cáceres de Arismendi”.

Venezuela to Consider Confiscation Overflight of Iranian-Related Boeing 747 as «Hostile Act»

For a year now, the Boeing 787-8 (P4-787) of Argentine pilot and filmmaker Enrique Piñeyro, who also leads the NGO Solidaire, has been sporting a special livery to protest against the executions carried out by the government of Iran.
Along the fuselage, the aircraft displays three phrases: «No woman should be forced to cover her head,» «No woman should be killed for not covering her head,» and «No man should be hanged for saying this.»
Additionally, on one side of the tail of the 787, there is a photo of Mahsa Amini, the Iranian woman who was detained in September 2022 by the morality police for not wearing her veil properly and later died in custody, sparking a wave of protests at the time. On the other side, there is a photo of 26-year-old Iranian footballer Amir Nasr-Azadani, sentenced to 26 years in jail for participating in the protests.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
Hoy llegó <a href="https://twitter.com/rodstewart?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rodstewart</a> al país. Se bajó de su avión, vió el Boeing 787 de Solidaire y quiso sacarse fotos con las imágenes de Mahsa Amini y Amir Nasr-Azadani. Ella fue asesinada por el régimen iraní y él fue condenado a 26 años de prisión por defender los derechos de las mujeres. <a href="https://t.co/qRCmahTlgP">pic.twitter.com/qRCmahTlgP</a>
&mdash; Enrique Piñeyro (@epineyro_ok) <a href="https://twitter.com/epineyro_ok/status/1709328254786568279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The plane normally conducts humanitarian flights around the world supporting all kinds of causes, but this time it encountered an obstacle in delivering humanitarian aid to the civilian population of Gaza.
According to Piñeyro, as reported through his Twitter account, due to some of the inscriptions on the livery, the Egyptian government did not allow the Boeing 787-8 to land at El Arish airport, a city located on the Mediterranean coast of the Sinai Peninsula, about 40 kilometers from the Gaza border.
That is why they had to remove from the tail the photo of Mahsa Amini and the phrase «No woman should be killed for not covering her head,» as can be seen in this video:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
Para que Solidaire pudiera llevar ayuda humanitaria para la población civil de Gaza tuvimos que sacar del avión la foto de Mahsa Amini y la frase lNINGUNA MUJER DEBERÍA SER ASESINADA POR NO CUBRIRSE LA CABEZA sino el gobierno egipcio no nos permitía aterrizar en El Arish. <a href="https://t.co/9ypY47LIlL">pic.twitter.com/9ypY47LIlL</a>
&mdash; Enrique Piñeyro (@epineyro_ok) <a href="https://twitter.com/epineyro_ok/status/1737969542368748008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
According to Flightradar, the Boeing 787-8 took off from Buenos Aires to Warsaw on December 18, and from there to Madrid on December 20. The next day it flew to El Arish, returning in the afternoon to the Spanish capital.
Piñeyro acquired this aircraft in 2021, and during the certification period, he completed one of the longest flights on a Boeing 787 connecting Seoul, South Korea, with Buenos Aires, Argentina. The flight lasted 20 hours and 19 minutes and covered a distance of 10,520 nautical miles (19,483 km).
See also: <a href="http://aviacionline.com/2021/04/detras-del-vuelo-mas-largo-del-787-8-entrevista-con-el-ceo-de-comlux-andrea-zanetto/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Behind the longest flight of the Boeing 787-8: interview with Comlux CEO Andrea Zanetto</a>
&nbsp;

Egypt Enforces Livery Censorship on Boeing 787 Destined for Gaza’s Civilian Relief

<article>
<section>Early Tuesday, a fire broke out in one of the historic World War II-era hangars at the former Tustin Air Base, a well-known part of California&#8217;s military history and film industry. The blaze, which was reported around 1:30 AM near Valencia Avenue and Armstrong Road, led to the collapse of parts of the roof as firefighters battled the inferno from outside, due to collapse risks.
</section>
<section>
<h2>A Piece of History in Flames</h2>
The massive wooden structure, one of the largest ever built, has been a storied fixture in the area, once housing military blimps and featured in multiple films such as «Austin Powers» and «Pearl Harbor.» Standing at 17 stories, the hangar&#8217;s size and unique construction have made it an irreplaceable landmark.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-222277" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1jhn.cvhvz5_.940.jpg" alt="" width="940" height="399" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/1jhn.cvhvz5_.940.jpg 940w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/1jhn.cvhvz5_.940-300x127.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/1jhn.cvhvz5_.940-768x326.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 940px) 100vw, 940px" />
Naval Air Station Santa Ana was established in 1942 as a blimp base for the U.S. Navy&#8217;s World War II coastal patrols and was later commissioned as Marine Corps Air Station Tustin. Throughout its history, the base has undergone various transitions, including deactivation, reactivation during the Korean War as the nation&#8217;s first helicopter base, and expansion during the Vietnam War as a radar testing and pilot training center.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-222275 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_19-Window.png" alt="" width="1085" height="619" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_19-Window.png 1085w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_19-Window-300x171.png 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_19-Window-1024x584.png 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_19-Window-768x438.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1085px) 100vw, 1085px" />
By the early 1990s, it was a significant center for helicopter aviation, supporting military operations and leasing land for agriculture, surrounded by a changing landscape of residential and industrial development.
MCAS Tustin was slated for closure in the early 1990s and officially ceased operations in July 1999, with parts of the site repurposed for commercial, educational, and recreational use, including an academy for the Orange County Sheriff&#8217;s Department and residential developments.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-222276 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_48-Window.png" alt="" width="1084" height="615" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_48-Window.png 1084w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_48-Window-300x170.png 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_48-Window-1024x581.png 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/2023-11-07-16_48_48-Window-768x436.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1084px) 100vw, 1084px" />
The historic hangars have not only earned recognition as a National Civil Engineering Landmark but have also been utilized in entertainment and for experimental aviation projects, like the Worldwide Aeros Corp&#8217;s cargo airship prototype, until a partial roof collapse in 2013.
</section>
<section>
<h2>Local Response and Future Concerns</h2>
The Orange County Fire Authority utilized a helicopter to combat the flames, an unprecedented method in the area. Tustin Mayor Austin Lumbard expressed the community&#8217;s loss, emphasizing the hangar&#8217;s cultural and historic significance, beyond its physical presence.
According to the Orange County Fire Authority, allowing the north hangar to collapse in a controlled manner was deemed the safest approach to effectively battling the blaze.
<figure id="attachment_222278" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-222278" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-222278" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/OCR-L-HANGAR-FIRE-1107-MR40-2-1.webp" alt="" width="1020" height="573" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/OCR-L-HANGAR-FIRE-1107-MR40-2-1.webp 1020w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/OCR-L-HANGAR-FIRE-1107-MR40-2-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/OCR-L-HANGAR-FIRE-1107-MR40-2-1-768x431.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-222278" class="wp-caption-text">Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG</figcaption></figure>
No injuries were reported at the scene. The affected hangar, which measured over 1,000 feet long and 300 feet wide, had not been used since the 2013 collapse previously cited. Fire crews remained on site working to fully extinguish any remaining flames in the debris over the coming days.
</section>
</article>

Historic Navy Airship hangar collapse after large fire 

The Peruvian Aviation Accident Investigation Commission has released the final report on the LATAM Flight 2213 accident. This report concludes that the incident was caused by a lack of coordinated planning, poor communication, and the non-use of standardized phraseology.
The incident happened on Friday, November 18, 2022. Airbus A320neo operating LATAM Peru Flight 2213 collided with a rescue and firefighting service (RFFS) vehicle at Jorge Chavez Airport in Lima. After a takeoff run of approximately 1,200 meters at a speed of around 243 km/h, the aircraft -registered as CC-BHB- struck its right engine against vehicle R3. The impact instantly claimed the lives of two firefighters, while the third crew member of the hydrant truck succumbed to his injuries in June of this year. There were no fatalities among the people on board the aircraft.
<h4>Related Content: <a style="color: #ff9900" href="http://aviacionline.com/2022/11/latam-airbus-a320neo-crash-in-peru-what-we-know/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LATAM Airbus A320neo crash in Peru: What We Know</a></h4>
In the final report, the CIAA (Aviation Accident Investigation Commission) determined that the probable cause of the collision was the incursion of the rescue vehicle onto the active runway. This happened without explicit authorization from the tower, during a training exercise. The chain of events began due to inadequate planning, poor coordination, and the failure to use standardized communication and phraseology.
The report, which can be accessed <a href="https://www.gob.pe/institucion/mtc/informes-publicaciones/4694518-informe-final-ciaa-accid-008-2022-matricula-cc-bhb-fecha-18-11-2022" target="_new" rel="noopener">here</a>, notes that «there is no evidence of detailed and joint planning between the airport&#8217;s safety manager and the tower&#8217;s coordinator for the execution of the exercise. This lack of coordination prevented the identification and disclosure of latent risks. In August 2022, three months prior, an identical exercise was conducted in which satisfactory joint planning was achieved.»
As contributing factors, the report maintains that proper instruction was not given to the RFFS personnel and controllers. Furthermore, the incorrect application of aeronautical communication principles led to a misunderstanding by the controllers regarding the exercise&#8217;s execution.
Additionally, the RFFS&#8217;s interpretation was incorrect due to the lack of use of standard phraseology. The crew believed that the tower&#8217;s confirmation to start the exercise also implied permission to access the runway. It was highlighted that the controllers were informed of the exercise just minutes before its execution. This situation did not allow them to analyze the risks and prioritize air traffic management appropriately.

Investigation reveals causes of LATAM Flight 2213 accident in Peru

On Saturday afternoon, a Frecce Tricolori -Italy&#8217;s aerobatic team- Aermacchi MB.339 met a tragic fate shortly after takeoff from Caselle airport. A piece detached from the plane, hitting a car and causing the demise of five-year-old Laura Origliasso, and severely injuring her brother.
<section>A video acquired by Repubblica depicts the pilot of the MB.339 plane parachuting to safety before the devastating impact. Hospitalized with burns at Giovanni Bosco, the pilot survived, averting a crash in the nearby town of San Francesco al Campo.</section>
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<section>The family in the car was not so fortunate. Suffering from severe burns, the young girl lost her life instantly, while her 12-year-old brother fights for his life at Regina Margherita children&#8217;s hospital. Both parents also sustained injuries, receiving treatment at separate facilities in the region.</section>
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<section>The Italian Ministry of Defense released a statement confirming an unfortunate air accident involving the Frecce Tricolori air squadron in Turin.</section>
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<section>The statement revealed that the squadron, under the leadership of Air Squadron General Luca Goretti, is in a state of deep shock and mourning. The details surrounding the incident remain unclear at this juncture, with investigations underway to determine the exact cause. One prevailing theory suggests that the aircraft, piloted by Major Oscar Del Do&#8217;, might have encountered a bird strike shortly after takeoff, causing it to crash.
The aircraft was en route to Vercelli for a scheduled air show performance when it plummeted near the Turin Caselle airport. In an attempt to minimize the impact, Major Del Do&#8217; managed to execute an ejection maneuver just moments before the crash.
Regrettably, the aircraft&#8217;s crash igniting a fire that engulfed a passing vehicle carrying four passengers. The incident led to the tragic death of a young girl and left three others gravely injured.
Reactions from the Political Sphere
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<section>The tragedy has elicited reactions from political figures, including Defense Minister Guido Crosetto and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, who expressed shock and deep condolences, respectively. Notable figures have visited the site to pay their respects and oversee the ongoing investigations.</section>

Italian Aerobatic Team MB.339 Crashes in Turin: What We Know

<article>Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, openly praised Russian aviation technology during his recent visit to a fighter jet factory in Khabarovsk Oblast, Russia, sparking discussions around military collaborations.
<h2>Inspection of Russian Fighter Jet Factory Amidst Western Sanctions</h2>
On Friday, Kim Jong Un inspected Sukhoi factory which is currently facing Western sanctions. This move is viewed with apprehension by Washington and its allies as it is feared to strengthen Russia&#8217;s military stance in Ukraine and enhance Pyongyang&#8217;s missile program.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un engaged in discussions encompassing the war in Ukraine, military matters, and potential areas for deepening cooperation during their meeting on Wednesday.
<h2>Exploring the Technical Prowess of Russian Aviation</h2>
During his visit, Kim interacted with test pilots at the fighter jet fuselage assembly shop, getting firsthand information about the technical specifications and flight performance of the fifth-generation fighter jet, Su-57. He also explored the features of an airliner produced by the plant and witnessed the test flight of an Su-35 fighter jet.
<h2>Concerns from South Korea and the United States</h2>
Following the visit, South Korea and the United States declared that the military collaboration between North Korea and Russia stands as a violation of U.N. sanctions against Pyongyang, vowing to ensure repercussions.
After the tour Kim Jong Un proceeded to his next stop, Primorsky Krai. The visit showcased potential avenues for collaboration in aircraft production and other sectors, hinting at a promising future bilateral relationship on the matter.
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