BOOM Supersonic Addresses Media Skepticism, Eurocontrol Warns of Summer Travel Chaos in Europe, and More
Aviation news brief July 3
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BOOM Supersonic Addresses Media Skepticism with Major Announcements at Paris Air Show
BOOM Supersonic has taken steps to address the skepticism displayed by the media at the Paris Air Show. The CEO, Blake Scholl, made significant announcements regarding the Overture program, highlighting the 130 orders and pre-orders received from major airlines.
Supplier deals were also revealed, including partnerships with Aernnova, Leonardo, and Aciturri for the wing, fuselage, and empennage respectively. The company also emphasized its commitment to sustainability, with a deal to receive sustainable aviation fuel from Dimensional Energy & Air Company.
These developments have contributed to a more positive perception of BOOM Supersonic's plans and progress in the industry. source
Beond, an "All-Premium" Airline, to Launch First Nonstop Route Between Australia and Maldives
Beond, a new "all-premium" airline, aims to establish the first nonstop air link between Australia and the Maldives. Set to launch in September 2023, Beond will operate with a custom-built fleet of Airbus A321LR narrow-body aircraft featuring 68 lie-flat seats in a 2-2 format.
The airline, funded by UAE-based investor Arabesque and Maldivian hospitality company SIMDI Group, plans to expand its route network to connect the Maldives with 60 destinations worldwide.
Beond intends to offer premium services, including home check-in, lounge access, and premium menus onboard flights. Future plans include flights to Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne, depending on aircraft deliveries. source
Australian Grants Launched to Support Eco-Friendly Biofuel Projects for Long-Haul Flights
Australia's Renewable Energy Agency has launched a multimillion-dollar grant program to support projects aimed at reducing pollution from long-haul flights. With a $30 million fund, the initiative is part of the government's Jet Zero program.
The grants are open to commercial or pre-commercial projects focused on sustainable aviation fuel production, which can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation sector.
The use of biofuels made from waste and agricultural resources is considered a near-term viable option for reducing emissions, and Australia's natural resources and strong agricultural industry provide a unique opportunity for developing a domestic biofuel industry. source
Eurocontrol Warns of Summer Travel Chaos in Europe as Air Traffic Control Overloads Expected
Eurocontrol, the organization responsible for managing European airspace, has issued a warning of potential travel chaos during the summer season in Europe.
With an anticipated 8% increase in daily flights compared to last year, air traffic control is expected to face "high overloads" in several important regions, resulting in delays and longer flight routes.
Increased military activity in Europe has also reduced the amount of available airspace by up to 20%, further exacerbating the situation. The threat of air traffic control strikes adds to the concerns, impacting not only France but also causing rerouting across Europe. Travelers are advised to stay informed and check the latest travel advice. source
International Airlines Group (IAG) Exercises Options for Ten Airbus A320neo Aircraft
International Airlines Group (IAG) has exercised options for ten Airbus A320neo aircraft, with the possibility of converting them to A321neo aircraft if it better suits the group's needs.
These aircraft will replace existing A320ceo aircraft within IAG's airlines, including British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling. The ten options are part of the fifty purchase rights that IAG agreed with Airbus last year.
The first deliveries are expected in 2028, indicating that IAG has secured firm delivery slots. The engine selection for the aircraft will be announced at a later stage. source
Lufthansa Cargo Expands E-commerce Capabilities with Third A321 Freight Aircraft
Lufthansa Cargo has incorporated its third Airbus A321 freighter as part of its efforts to expand its e-commerce capabilities. The aircraft, named "Dia dhuit Ireland," joined the existing fleet of freighters and made its first commercial flight on the Malta-Milan route.
Lufthansa Cargo plans to introduce a fourth A321 freighter later this year and is open to adding more aircraft to its intra-European e-commerce operation in the future. The converted A321 freighter offers 14 pallet and container positions in the main deck and 10 in the lower deck, with a payload of 28 tons and a range of 3,500 km. source
Sustainable Aviation Ventures Expand Efforts in Washington State
Two sustainable aviation ventures, Twelve and ZeroAvia, have announced their expansion in Washington state. Twelve, a clean energy startup, plans to build a commercial-scale production facility in Moses Lake to produce synthetic jet fuel using renewable energy, water, and carbon dioxide.
ZeroAvia, a hydrogen-powered aviation startup, will increase its research and development capabilities at its facility in Everett's Paine Field. Both companies aim to revolutionize the aviation industry by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing sustainable fuel and propulsion systems.
The state of Washington is providing support through grants and tax credits to accelerate the development and deployment of clean aviation technology. source
Qantas Expands with Smaller Planes to Compete Against Air New Zealand
Qantas is planning to increase its competitiveness in the trans-Tasman market by deploying smaller aircraft, such as the Embraer E190 and Airbus A220. The Australian carrier will launch flights between Brisbane and Wellington using the E190, allowing it to test the market and potentially tap into unserved routes.
Qantas aims to solidify its position as the leading international carrier from Wellington. The introduction of the A220 later this year may open up more opportunities for the airline to expand its reach across the Tasman, targeting destinations like Canberra, Newcastle, Hamilton, and Rotorua.
The move is seen as a direct challenge to Air New Zealand's dominance in the region. source
Miami-based AIP Capital Eyes Investment in Korea's Eastar Jet
Private equity fund AIP Capital, affiliated with 777 Partners, is reportedly in talks to acquire a 10% stake in Eastar Jet, a South Korean airline. AIP Capital plans to lease five Boeing 737-8 aircraft to Eastar Jet.
This development marks a significant turnaround for Eastar Jet, which recently resumed operations after a three-year grounding. AIP Capital, with approximately USD 10 billion of capital, focuses on aviation asset management and aircraft acquisitions.
The deal is expected to close in mid-July, pending regulatory approval as foreign ownership of Korean carriers is limited to 49.99%. Eastar Jet aims to expand its fleet and resume international flights. source
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