Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force successfully completed early demonstrations of the MQ-28 Ghost Bat, advancing autonomous combat aircraft capabilities. The program exceeded expectations, finishing ahead of schedule, and lays the groundwork for future mixed force structures involving both crewed and uncrewed systems. Future phases will focus on air-to-air weapons testing and further development.

United Nigeria Airlines has formalized a purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines for six Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This fleet expansion is part of United Nigeria Airlines’ strategic growth initiatives to enhance operational capacity.

China’s prominent airlines face challenges in achieving profitability, with strong domestic travel yet struggles on international routes to regions like North America and Europe. Air China and China Eastern report losses, while China Southern manages only a modest profit. This analysis delves into the factors influencing their financial performance and strategic responses.

American Airlines faced criticism for downgrading a business class passenger in favor of the wife of a retiring pilot, causing debates over fairness and airline priorities. This action raises broader questions about how airlines balance tradition versus passenger rights, highlighting ongoing shifts in upgrade practices within the industry.

JetBlue flight JBU511 from New York JFK to Las Vegas experienced a takeoff delay following a request for a brief hold. Due to ATC regulations on runway occupancy, the clearance was revoked and the aircraft was instructed to vacate the runway, highlighting the procedural priorities of ATC operations.

The Boeing 777-9 completed vital brake certification testing against challenging Oklahoma weather, testing the aircraft’s limits and ensuring safety and regulatory standards. Despite weather disruptions, the team adapted and completed the tests successfully, paving the way for the aircraft’s anticipated advancements in long-haul travel.

Emirates is expanding its Premium Economy cabin to flights between Dubai and New York’s JFK. The A380 aircraft will feature a four-class layout, offering passengers enhanced comfort and amenities compared to standard Economy. The airline plans to expand this cabin class to 68 destinations by 2026.

A British Airways flight from Sydney to Singapore made an emergency landing back at Sydney Airport due to smoke in the cabin. Emergency services were prepared and all passengers disembarked safely. British Airways is investigating the smoke’s source, but the flight remains canceled. A comparable event occurred in August 2025 involving a British Airways Airbus A380 in Johannesburg.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has addressed operational incident concerns, affirming that their occurrence rate is typical given the airline’s extensive size. Air India is increasing transparency and customer service through initiatives like an e-voucher program for disruptions. Following a tragic accident, the airline is enhancing safety and operational practices to rebuild its reputation under Tata Group ownership.

SpiceJet is working to return ten grounded aircraft to its roster by April 2026 and has arranged new leases to bolster capacity by the 2025 winter season. The airline has undertaken engine overhaul efforts and financial restructuring to support these initiatives amid operational and financial challenges. The strategy aims to enhance SpiceJet’s fleet readiness and stability for upcoming peak travel periods.