Flight Safety Information - November 4, 2025 No. 220 In This Issue : Incident: Lufthansa A359 over Montenegro on Oct 30th 2025, cracked windshield : Incident: India B773 near Ulaanbaatar on Nov 3rd 2025, technical issue : Head of NASA Threatens to Ground Every Single Commercial Flight Before Thanksgiving : Flight attendants sacked after declining to fly over alleged bed bugs on plane — but the airline stands by the termination : 80% of NYC-area air traffic controllers absent amid 'surge' in callouts: FAA : Bomb threat on Frontier flight forces emergency response at DFW Airport : EASA launches survey on socio-economic factors influencing aviation safety : Air India San Francisco to Delhi Flight with 777 Diverted to This Sparsely Populated Region : Lightning-prediction tool could help protect the planes of the future : Ryanair Hiring Pilots For the Most profitable Large Narrowbody Jet in the World : World’s first hydrogen-fueled hypersonic jet could fly at 12 times the speed of sound : GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY REQUEST : Calendar of Event : TODAY'S PHOTO Incident: Lufthansa A359 over Montenegro on Oct 30th 2025, cracked windshield A Lufthansa Airbus A350-900, registration D-AIXO performing flight LH-640 from Munich (Germany) to Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), was enroute at FL410 over Montenegro when the crew descended the aircraft to FL200 due to a cracked windshield. After initially setting course towards Belgrad (Serbia) the aircraft turned north to return to Munich and landed safely back on Munich's runway 26R about 3 hours after departure. The rotation was cancelled. The aircraft returned to service about 15.5 hours after landing back. https://avherald.com/h?article=52f44e62&opt=0 Incident: India B773 near Ulaanbaatar on Nov 3rd 2025, technical issue An Air India Boeing 777-300, registration VT-AEH performing flight AI-174 (dep Nov 2nd) from San Francisco,CA (USA) to Kolkata (India), was enroute at 10700 meters (about FL351) about 190nm northnorthwest of Ulanbaatar (Mongolia) when the crew decided to turn south and divert to Ulanbaatar initially maintaining 10,700 meters. The aircraft landed safely on Ulanbaatar's runway 29 about 45 minutes later. The airline reported the aircraft made a precautionary landing in Ulaanbaatar after the flight crew suspected a technical issue. The aircraft is being checked. The aircraft is still on the ground in Ulanbaatar about 5 hours after landing. https://avherald.com/h?article=52f44359&opt=0 Head of NASA Threatens to Ground Every Single Commercial Flight Before Thanksgiving Transportation secretary Sean Duffy, who’s also serving as NASA’s interim administrator, threatened to ground all commercial flights in the United States ahead of American Thanksgiving — some of the busiest air travel days of the year. An ongoing federal government shutdown has put a massive strain on flight operations since it kicked off on October 1, with air traffic controllers missing paychecks and even being forced to take on second jobs to make ends meet. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pleaded with lawmakers last week to end the shutdown, following major delays and cancellations caused by staffing shortages. In baffling remarks during a CNBC interview today, Duffy said he may end up grounding all commercial flights if the shutdown ends up impacting air safety. “If we thought that it was unsafe, we’ll shut the whole airspace down,” he said, adding that the shutdown does “include an element of risk.” “We won’t let people travel,” he said. “We’re not there at this point. It’s just significant delays.” It’s a dire situation, and a major escalation in rhetoric, amid one of the longest government shutdowns in US history. While being in control of both chambers, Republicans have accused Democrats of not letting up and agreeing to pass a bill that would exclude key healthcare measures and include Trump’s brutal cuts to Medicaid and other government agencies. Among many other services, the air travel system has been put under immense pressure by the shutdown. “After 31 days without pay, air traffic controllers are under immense stress and fatigue,” the FAA wrote in a social media post on Friday. “Currently, half of our Core 30 facilities are experiencing staffing shortages, and nearly 80 percent of air traffic controllers are absent at New York–area facilities.” “As we continue to reiterate, we will never compromise on safety,” the statement reads. “When staffing shortages occur, the FAA will reduce the flow of air traffic to maintain safety. This may result in delays or cancellations.” https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/head-nasa-threatens-ground-every-202642670.html Flight attendants sacked after declining to fly over alleged bed bugs on plane — but the airline stands by the termination Tensions are boiling after three senior Brussels Airlines were sacked because they refused to go on duty over bed bug concerns. Their excuse didn’t fly with the airline. Tensions are boiling after three senior Brussels Airlines employees were sacked because they refused to go on duty over bed bug concerns. The issue occurred on Oct. 16 after cleaners noticed signs of the parasites aboard an A330-300, which was slated to fly from Brussels, Belgium, to Accra, Ghana, Aviation24.be reported. In response, Brussels Airlines conducted its own investigation into the so-called bloodsucking stowaways, ultimately determining that the vessel was bug-free. “After thorough inspection, it was confirmed as a false alarm, and the aircraft was accepted by the captain of the flight to re-enter service,” Brussels Airlines spokesperson Nico Cardone told the Post. “Our cleaning staff are trained to be vigilant in this type of situation. “ Despite the all-clear, three of the five flight attendants who raised concerns remained unswayed and invoked their “unfit to fly” right—a European aviation policy allowing crew to withdraw from duty physically or psychologically unable to do their job. This didn’t fly with the carrier’s brass, who reportedly canned the veteran crew members — who had 20, 27 and 30 years of service respectively — over “gross misconduct,” Cardone said. The employees were accused of “flagrantly breaching procedures” and causing financial and operational harm to the carrier. The flight attendants, who had expected a slap on the wrist at most, were appalled over their surprise dismissal, with one of them reportedly even fainting during the meeting. Union representatives condemned the decision, claiming that it set a dangerous precedent. “Crew who feel unsafe or unfit may now be pressured to fly regardless of their condition, which jeopardizes passenger safety,” warned Jeroen Van Ranst of the Dutch-speaking union ACV Puls. Unfortunately, talks between the unions and the airline failed to get resolved, prompting unions to consider a protest action — although Cardone told the Post that he was “unaware of any concrete strike actions” that were in the works. Many are imploring the airline to reinstate the crew members and for management to make a gesture to restore trust. Several flight attendants believe this is the culmination of deteriorating conditions at the carrier, which has been plagued by management pressure, increasing cancellations and an aging long-haul fleet. “We’re tired of being harassed and threatened,” declared one, per Aviation24.be. “The company has become toxic.” Bedbugs are a more common problem in the friendly skies than one might think. “Bedbugs often hitchhike on luggage and personal items; they can unknowingly end up on airplanes,” said Hottel, a Georgia-based Orkin entomologist. “They are also incredibly skilled at hitchhiking, traveling on personal belongings such as luggage, clothing, purses, and gym bags. Travelers can unknowingly transport them from one place to another.” https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/flight-attendants-sacked-declining-fly-144257022.html 80% of NYC-area air traffic controllers absent amid 'surge' in callouts: FAA Staffing shortages snarled flights at a slew of major airports on Friday. Furloughed worker on 'really painful' experience of FAA employeesDan Ronnenberg, a union resident who represents all FAA headquarters employees, shares his experience of dealing with the government shutdown and what's at stake for other FAA employees. A surge in callouts among air traffic controllers "is straining staffing levels" at multiple airports across the U.S. -- including in the New York City area where 80% of controllers are absent, the Federal Aviation Administration said Friday evening. In an update, the FAA said half of the 30 busiest facilities in the U.S., known as the "Core 30" were experiencing staffing shortages, "leading to widespread impacts." The disruptions came as the government shutdown stretched into its 31st day, showing little sign of resolution as opposing lawmakers exchanged barbs and dug into their positions. Air traffic controllers, who are required to work without pay for the duration of the shutdown, are credited with helping end the most recent shutdown in 2019, when a series of absences delayed flights and heightened pressure on members of Congress. Earlier Friday, staffing shortages snarled flights at airports in Boston, Nashville, Dallas and Newark, New Jersey, among other major cities, according to FAA advisories. "After 31 days without pay, air traffic controllers are under immense stress and fatigue," the FAA said in the update. "The shutdown must end so that these controllers receive the pay they’ve earned and travelers can avoid further disruptions and delays." The FAA said it doesn't compromise safety and when staffing shortages occur, it is forced to reduce the flow of air traffic to maintain safety, which leads to delays and cancellations. Speaking at the White House on Thursday, Vice President J.D. Vance voiced concern about the challenges faced by aviation workers. "Everybody here is very worried that we're going to see more delays, more stresses on the people who are actually making the aviation system run and more problems for both the consumers, but also the great workers who actually make this incredible shining jewel of the American economy actually work and work on time and work safely," Vance said. Here’s what to know about air traffic controllers amid the government shutdown and how staffing shortages could impact travel: Why do air traffic controllers work without pay during the shutdown? Since air traffic controllers are considered essential workers, they are required to work without pay for the duration of the government shutdown. Air traffic controllers missed their first paycheck on Tuesday. Air traffic controllers, like other federal employees, typically receive backpay once the government reopens, but they must draw from savings or find alternative income in the meantime. The median annual salary among air traffic controllers is roughly $150,000 but starting pay clocks in well below that at about $50,000, Jake Rosenfeld, a professor of sociology at Washington University in St. Louis, who studies labor in the aviation industry, told ABC News. "For those who just started out on the job, the pressure is really acute," Rosenfeld said. The most recent shutdown -- which spanned from late 2018 to early 2019 -- lasted 35 days. Afterward, air traffic controllers received full back pay. What is the scale of staffing shortages and travel disruptions? Staffing shortages among air traffic controllers have worsened over the course of the government shutdown, though they remain limited to a fraction of facilities nationwide, analysts told ABC News. On Friday, significant staffing shortages impacted a small share of the hundreds of air traffic control facilities across the country, Michael McCormick, a professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a former air traffic controller, told ABC News. Still, he added, a limited number of worker absences at key airports can cause far-reaching disruption for travelers, McCormick said Boston’s Logan International Airport, which reported staffing shortages and delays on Friday, serves as an airline hub for Jet Blue. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, a hub for American, also reported staffing-related delays. "When you have delays at airline hubs, it interrupts the schedule and that means passengers can't make connections, baggage can't make connections, and crews and aircraft aren’t where they need to be," McCormick added. Is it safe to fly? On Thursday, Vance said Americans "shouldn’t be afraid to fly during the shutdown." What SNAP recipients need to know as benefits set to expire amid government shutdown McCormick, of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, said the delays should serve as a counterintuitive source of reassurance for passengers, since disruptions result from a reduction of flight traffic to account for the shortage of workers. "I firmly believe it’s safe to fly," McCormick added. "The whole reason there are delays is that they’re throttling down the demand in the system to match the staffing levels." "The challenge for passengers who are flying in these times is that these are unpredictable delays," McCormick added. Airlines often identify weather events ahead of time and alert passengers, but staffing-related disruptions typically emerge without warning, he said. https://abcnews.go.com/US/delays-safety-concerns-shortages-air-traffic-controllers/story?id=127055961 Bomb threat on Frontier flight forces emergency response at DFW Airport Passengers on a Frontier Airlines flight arriving at DFW Airport faced a frightening Monday morning after a bomb threat note was found on board, forcing everyone to remain on the tarmac for nearly two hours, according to a CBS News Texas reporter aboard the plane. Just after 9 a.m. CST, the pilot announced to passengers that a note had been found in the lavatory saying there was a bomb on the plane. Passengers share frightening experience after note claims bomb on board flight to DFW "I was super nervous, not knowing if it was real or a prank," said Mary Putney, who was on board the plane. The plane was traveling from Denver to Dallas. Moments after touching down, the plane was immediately grounded. CBS News Texas reporter Marissa Armas was on board the flight. "If you left that note in the lav, we can avoid what we're about to going to have to go through, if you will just admit it; otherwise, we're going to have to deplane and do a full search. It's not going to be pretty," said the pilot over the PA system. "Now's your last chance to fess up to that. The police and FBI will be here soon." "I was feeling a little scared, like maybe the bomb threat could be real," Blue said. FBI, SWAT respond to Frontier flight at DFW after bomb threat found on board Within minutes, the plane was swarmed by law enforcement vehicles. Police, FBI investigators, and a SWAT team quickly boarded and began searching the aircraft. "I thought it was ridiculous cause of everything that is going on politically. And everything... It's just crazy to say something or do something like that," Brecken Gorham said. One man was escorted off the plane for questioning, but later returned to his seat. Both Frontier Airlines and DFW airport confirmed the incident, saying law enforcement determined the threat to be non-credible. Monday's false threat comes on the heels of numerous flight delays around the country and ongoing staff shortages at airports because of the ongoing government shutdown. Frontier Airlines responds to passengers after bomb threat incident A spokesperson with Frontier Airlines said that DFW was the final destination for the vast majority of the passengers on board, adding, "there were a handful with a connection, and we are offering them alternate arrangements." DFW Airport referred additional questions to the FBI. Monday night, some Frontier passengers said the experience left them shaken. "We're all just trying to get to where we're going right now, especially everything being so tense in America right now it's the last thing we need is false bomb threat claims," Blue said. https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/bomb-threat-on-frontier-flight-forces-emergency-response-at-dfw-airport/ EASA launches survey on socio-economic factors influencing aviation safety EASA has launched a Europe-wide survey to assess how socio-economic and employment conditions may impact safety performance and wellbeing among pilots, cabin crew, and operational control personnel. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has launched a survey to gather feedback from aviation professionals on how socio-economic and employment conditions may influence safety and wellbeing in safety-critical roles. The initiative forms part of EASA’s mandate under Article 89 of Regulation (EU) 2018/1139, which requires the Agency to monitor and report on socio-economic factors affecting aviation safety. The survey targets pilots, cabin crew, and operational control personnel (including dispatchers and flight operations officers) across Europe. It aims to provide a clearer understanding of where working conditions may have an impact on operational safety and human performance. EASA noted that feedback from frontline aviation professionals is essential to strengthening safety culture and supporting future policy decisions. The Agency emphasised that the survey’s purpose is to improve safety outcomes rather than assess individual or company performance. Participation takes approximately 30 minutes and must be completed in a single session. To protect respondents’ privacy, EASA confirmed that all responses will remain confidential and processed only for research purposes in line with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2016/679). Data will be anonymised for analysis, stored securely, and deleted at the end of the project. The survey remains open until 30 November. https://www.traveldailynews.com/aviation/easa-launches-survey-on-socio-economic-factors-influencing-aviation-safety/ Air India San Francisco to Delhi Flight with 777 Diverted to This Sparsely Populated Region Air India’s San Francisco–Delhi flight made a safe diversion to Mongolia after pilots detected a potential technical issue. DELHI- Tata Group-owned Indian FSC Air India (AI) Boeing 777, registered as VT-AEH, operating flight AI174 from San Francisco (SFO) to Delhi via Kolkata, made a precautionary diversion to Ulaanbaatar (ULN), Mongolia, after pilots suspected a technical issue mid-route. The aircraft, carrying 228 passengers and 17 crew members, landed safely. Air India confirmed it is arranging alternate travel to Delhi while the aircraft undergoes technical checks. Air India San Francisco to Delhi Flight Diverted Air India’s flight AI174 departed from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 2:25 pm local time, en route to Kolkata (CCU) and onward to Delhi (DEL). Midway through its journey, the flight crew detected a possible technical issue and opted to divert to Ulaanbaatar (ULN), Mongolia’s capital. The decision was precautionary and aligned with standard safety procedures. Upon landing, all passengers were served meals onboard before being disembarked. Immigration procedures were completed at Ulaanbaatar International Airport, and Air India arranged hotel accommodation while organizing alternate transport to Delhi. A spokesperson for the airline confirmed that the Boeing 777-200LR, over 16 years old, is undergoing a detailed inspection. Air India reiterated that passenger safety remains its top priority and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused. Air India Spokesperson told Aviation A2Z: AI174 of 02 November, operating from San Francisco to Delhi via Kolkata, made a precautionary landing at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, after the flight crew suspected a technical issue en route. The aircraft landed safely at Ulaanbaatar and is undergoing the necessary checks. We are working closely with our partners to support all passengers while we make efforts to get everyone on their way to the destination at the earliest opportunity. We regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers due to the unforeseen situation. At Air India, the safety of passengers and crew remain top priority.” Alternate Aircraft and Passenger Support In line with protocol for unscheduled diversions, Air India is dispatching an alternate aircraft along with engineers and necessary materials to Ulaanbaatar. The plan is for the replacement aircraft to ferry passengers and crew to Delhi, while the engineering team rectifies and ferries the original aircraft back once cleared. Such procedures are standard in international operations to ensure minimal disruption while maintaining strict safety oversight. The airline has assured timely communication and full support for all passengers during the delay. In another update, an Air India Spokesperson told us: With the help of our partner and local authorities, Air India has extended immediate assistance to the passengers. They were served meals on board and have been disembarked. Hotel arrangements have been made for their stay after clearing immigration procedures at the airport while Air India makes alternative arrangements to fly them to their destination Delhi at the earliest. Air India sincerely regret the inconvenience to passengers arising from this unforeseen diversion, which was undertaken in the interest of safety. Every effort is being made to minimise the inconvenience.” Similar Incidents This is not the first time Air India’s long-haul operations from San Francisco have faced mid-air technical issues. In June 2023, a San Francisco–Delhi (SFO–DEL) service diverted to Magadan, Russia (GDX), where passengers spent nearly 39 hours before an alternate aircraft arrived. The airline issued full refunds and travel vouchers to affected passengers. Again in July 2024, another Delhi–San Francisco flight diverted to Krasnoyarsk, Russia (KJA), due to a snag. In that case, Air India managed a quicker response, sending an alternate aircraft from India to continue the journey. These instances underline the operational complexity of ultra-long-haul routes and the importance of proactive contingency measures in aviation safety. Recent Diversion An Air India flight from Delhi (DEL) to Bengaluru (BLR) carrying 172 passengers was diverted to Bhopal (BHO) after a technical warning on Monday night. The aircraft landed safely at Raja Bhoj Airport following standard emergency procedures. Officials confirmed that the Airbus A320neo (VT-EXO) operating flight AIC 2487 experienced a cargo hold alert mid-flight, prompting a full emergency declaration before the situation normalized. According to airport authorities, the flight’s crew reported a warning signal from the cargo compartment shortly after takeoff. In response, Air Traffic Control (ATC) at Bhopal Airport (BHO) initiated emergency protocols at 19:33 IST to ensure passenger safety. Within minutes, the cockpit crew confirmed the warning had cleared and that all systems were functioning normally. Despite the alert resolving mid-flight, the aircraft proceeded with the diversion as a precautionary measure, landing safely at 20:00 IST. All 172 passengers and crew disembarked without incident. Air India later stated that the aircraft was undergoing standard technical checks before resuming service. https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/11/04/air-india-san-francisco-to-delhi-flight-to-mongolia/#google_vignette Lightning-prediction tool could help protect the planes of the future The new approach maps aircraft sections most vulnerable to lightning, including on planes with experimental designs. More than 70 aircraft are struck by lightning every day. If you happen to be flying when a strike occurs, chances are you won’t feel a thing, thanks to lightning protection measures that are embedded in key zones throughout the aircraft. Lightning protection systems work well, largely because they are designed for planes with a “tube-and-wing” structure, a simple geometry common to most aircraft today. But future airplanes may not look and fly the same way. The aviation industry is exploring new designs, including blended-wing bodies and truss-braced wings, partly to reduce fuel and weight costs. But researchers don’t yet know how these unconventional designs might respond to lightning strikes. MIT aerospace engineers are hoping to change that with a new physics-based approach that predicts how lightning would sweep across a plane with any design. The tool then generates a zoning map highlighting sections of an aircraft that would require various degrees of lightning protection, given how they are likely to experience a strike. “People are starting to conceive aircraft that look very different from what we’re used to, and we can’t apply exactly what we know from historical data to these new configurations because they’re just too different,” says Carmen Guerra-Garcia, associate professor of aeronautics and astronautics (AeroAstro) at MIT. “Physics-based methods are universal. They’re agnostic to the type of geometry or vehicle. This is the path forward to be able to do this lightning zoning and protect future aircraft.” She and her colleagues report their results in a study appearing this week in IEEE Access. The study’s first author is AeroAstro graduate student Nathanael Jenkins. Other co-authors include Louisa Michael and Benjamin Westin of Boeing Research and Technology. First strike When lightning strikes, it first attaches to a part of a plane — typically a sharp edge or extremity — and hangs on for up to a second. During this brief flash, the plane continues speeding through the air, causing the lightning current to “sweep” over parts of its surface, potentially changing in intensity and re-attaching at certain points where the intense current flow could damage vulnerable sections of an aircraft. In previous work, Guerra-Garcia’s group developed a model to predict the parts of a plane where lightning is most likely to first connect. That work, led by graduate student Sam Austin, established a starting point for the team’s new work, which aims to predict how and where the lightning will then sweep over the plane’s surface. The team next converted their lightning sweep predictions into zoning maps to identify vulnerable regions requiring certain levels of protection. A typical tube-and-wing plane is divided into three main zones, as classified by the aviation industry. Each zone has a clear description of the level of current it must withstand in order to be certified for flight. Parts of a plane that are more likely to be hit by lightning are generally classified as zone 1 and require more protection, which can include embedded metal foil in the skin of the airplane that conducts away a lightning current. To date, an airplane’s lightning zones have been determined over many years of flight inspections after lightning strikes and fine-tuning of protection measures. Guerra-Garcia and her colleagues looked to develop a zoning approach based on physics, rather than historical flight data. Such a physics-based mapping could be applied to any shape of aircraft, such as unconventional and largely untested designs, to identify regions that really require reinforcement. “Protecting aircraft from lightning is heavy,” Jenkins says. “Embedding copper mesh or foil throughout an aircraft is an added weight penalty. And if we had the greatest level of protection for every part of the plane’s surface, the plane would weigh far too much. So zoning is about trying to optimize the weight of the system while also having it be as safe as possible.” In the zone For their new approach, the team developed a model to predict the pattern of lightning sweep and the corresponding lightning protection zones, for a given airplane geometry. Starting with a specific airplane shape — in their case, a typical tube-and-wing structure — the researchers simulated the fluid dynamics, or how air would flow around a plane, given a certain speed, altitude, and pitch angle. They also incorporated their previous model that predicts the places where lightning is more likely to initially attach. For each initial attachment point, the team simulated tens of thousands of potential lightning arcs, or angles from which the current strikes the plane. They then ran the model forward to predict how the tens of thousands of potential strikes would follow the air flow across the plane’s surface. These runs produced a statistical representation of where lightning, striking a specific point on a plane, is likely to flow and potentially cause damage. The team converted this statistical representation into a map of zones of varying vulnerability. They validated the method on a conventional tube-and-wing structure, showing that the zoning maps generated by the physics-based approach were consistent with what the aviation industry has determined over decades of fine-tuning. “We now have a physics-based tool that provides some metrics like the probability of lightning attachment and dwell time, which is how long an arc will linger at a specific point,” Guerra-Garcia explains. “We convert those physics metrics into zoning maps to show, if I’m in this red region, the lightning arc will stay for a long time, so that region needs to be heavily protected.” The team is starting to apply the approach to new geometries, such as blended-wing designs and truss-braced structures. The researchers envision that the tool can help designers incorporate safe and efficient lightning-protection systems early on in the design process. “Lightning is incredible and terrifying at the same time, and I have full confidence in flying on planes at the moment,” Jenkins says. “I want to have that same confidence in 20 years’ time. So, we need a new way to zone aircraft.” “With physics-based methods like the ones developed with professor Guerra-Garcia’s group we have the opportunity to shape industry standards and as an industry rely on the underlying physics to develop guidelines for aircraft certification through simulation,” says co-author Louisa Michael of Boeing Technology Innovation. Currently, we are engaging with industrial committees to propose these methods to be included in Aerospace Recommended Practices.” “Zoning unconventional aircraft is not an easy task,” adds co-author Ben Westin of Boeing Technology Innovation. “But these methods will allow us to confidently identify which threat levels each part of the aircraft needs to be protected against and certified for, and they give our design engineers a platform to do their best work to optimize aircraft design.” Beyond airplanes, Guerra-Garcia is looking at ways to adapt the lightning protection model to other technologies, including wind turbines. “About 60 percent of blade losses are due to lightning and will become worse as we move offshore because wind turbines will be even bigger and more susceptible to upward lightning,” she says. “They have many of the same challenges of a flowing gas environment. It’s more complex, and we will apply this same sort of methodology to this space.” This research was funded, in part, by the Boeing Company. https://news.mit.edu/2025/lightning-prediction-tool-could-help-protect-planes-future-1104 Ryanair Hiring Pilots For the Most profitable Large Narrowbody Jet in the World Boeing’s improved production timeline has reassured Ryanair that it can meet delivery targets. DUBLIN- Ryanair (FR) is fast-tracking pilot recruitment over the next three years as it prepares for the arrival of its first Boeing 737 MAX 10s in spring 2027. The airline is taking this step to ensure sufficient flight crew availability once Boeing (BA) completes certification and begins deliveries. Boeing expects the 737 MAX 10 to receive certification by mid-2026, aligning with Ryanair’s planned delivery schedule for the first 15 aircraft. The carrier’s strategy aims to balance operational readiness with fleet expansion across its European network, anchored by its primary base at Dublin Airport (DUB). Ryanair (FR) is fast-tracking pilot recruitment over the next three years as it prepares for the arrival of its first Boeing 737 MAX 10s in spring 2027. Ryanair confirmed that it will invest around €25 million ($29 million) annually in pilot recruitment and training. The focus is on accelerating cadet and first officer intake to build a strong internal pipeline of crew ready for captaincy roles as more MAX 10s join the fleet between 2028 and 2030, FlightGlobal reported. The airline noted that this initiative will temporarily raise first officer crewing ratios but provide long-term stability once deliveries ramp up. The approach also supports Ryanair’s policy of developing “home-grown” talent rather than relying heavily on external hiring. Boeing’s improved production timeline has reassured Ryanair that it can meet delivery targets. The airline is nearing completion of its large order for 210 Boeing 737 MAX 8-200s, with the final six aircraft expected to arrive well ahead of the 2026 summer season. Ryanair (FR) is fast-tracking pilot recruitment over the next three years as it prepares for the arrival of its first Boeing 737 MAX 10s in spring 2027. Current Fleet and Operational Strength During the first half of the year, Ryanair received 23 Boeing 737 MAX 8-200s, bringing its total fleet of this type to 204 out of 641 aircraft. The budget carrier continues to streamline its operations around these fuel-efficient jets to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Ryanair also reported that half of the 30 CFM International LEAP-1B engines ordered for operational resilience had been delivered by the end of September. This move ensures better flexibility in aircraft maintenance and availability during peak periods. Strong passenger demand and earlier-than-expected aircraft deliveries have prompted Ryanair to revise its annual forecast upward. The airline now expects to carry around 207 million passengers for the full year, reflecting steady growth in post-pandemic travel recovery across its network. Ryanair Cuts Fares at Dublin Airport Ryanair will increase capacity and lower fares at Dublin Airport (DUB) this Christmas following the suspension of the airport’s passenger cap. The move, announced by Group Chief Executive Michael O’Leary, comes as the airline positions new aircraft at Shannon (SNN) and Cork (ORK) Airports for the winter season. O’Leary said the airline’s short-term boost is positive news for families and travel demand, but warned that a long-term solution to the cap issue is essential to sustain growth through 2026 and beyond. Ryanair’s current expansion is supported by a temporary suspension of Dublin Airport’s passenger cap, following a High Court case brought jointly by Ryanair and Aer Lingus (EI). While the suspension allows for increased operations during winter, O’Leary stressed that it does not give the airline sufficient certainty to plan for next summer’s schedules. The legal process has now reached the European Court of Justice, leaving airlines in limbo until a final ruling is made. According to O’Leary, the ongoing uncertainty risks limiting not only Ryanair’s short-haul growth but also affecting long-haul carriers that rely on Dublin as Ireland’s main international gateway. Government plans to remove the cap were included in the Programme for Government, and preliminary work on legislation has begun. O’Leary urged immediate implementation, arguing that prolonged delays hurt Ireland’s aviation competitiveness. Performance and Network Adjustments The airline reported a net profit of €2.54 billion for the six months ending in September, up 42% from the same period last year. Revenue climbed 13% to €9.82 billion, driven by strong summer demand and fare increases averaging 13%. Ancillary revenues, including add-ons like seat selection and baggage, rose 6% to €2.91 billion. Ryanair has raised its full-year passenger forecast to 207 million, citing early Boeing 737 MAX 8 deliveries that allowed additional capacity this quarter. The airline expects to receive six remaining aircraft by February, ensuring a full operational fleet for summer 2025. Ryanair has reduced capacity in markets like Germany and Spain due to high aviation taxes, redirecting growth to more supportive regions. O’Leary highlighted Italy, Sweden, and Albania as examples where the abolition of environmental taxes has encouraged new routes and bases. He reiterated criticism of Europe’s Emissions Trading Scheme, which applies only to intra-European flights. O’Leary argued that this policy gives long-haul competitors an unfair advantage and urged policymakers to reform the system to protect European airline competitiveness. O’Leary also called for stronger measures against drone activity near airports, advocating immediate action to prevent disruptions. His remarks followed several incidents across Europe where drone sightings temporarily shut down airport operations. “It’s simple,” he said. “You see a drone over an airport, you shoot it down.” https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/11/03/ryanair-hiring-pilots-for-737-max-10/ World’s first hydrogen-fueled hypersonic jet could fly at 12 times the speed of sound The Brisbane-based company is developing the world’s first reusable, hydrogen-fueled hypersonic aircraft. Hypersonix Australia’s Hypersonix Launch Systems has secured $46 million in funding from a Series A round. This funding is provided by the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC), the Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), and a group of international defense investors. The investment supports Australia’s goal of excelling in hypersonic flight and building a robust aerospace manufacturing industry. Hypersonix, a Brisbane-based company, employs 45 people across engineering, advanced manufacturing, and testing, and is developing the world’s first reusable, hydrogen-fueled hypersonic aircraft capable of reaching speeds of up to Mach 12, which is twelve times the speed of sound. The funding round was led by UK-based High Tor Capital, an investor in frontier defense technologies, with European defense company Saab and Polish investment group RKKVC joining as co-investors. North Ridge Partners acted as the exclusive financial adviser on the deal. “This raise marks a major milestone as we prepare to launch the world’s first hydrogen-powered hypersonic aircraft,” Hypersonix CEO Matt Hill said. “Having Australia’s sovereign investor in manufacturing capability behind such a critical strategic capability sends a powerful message. It shows confidence in our mission to build clean, reusable aerospace systems that meet today’s national security needs while shaping tomorrow’s industry.” Australia’s first defense investment by NRFC The NRFC, Australia’s new sovereign investment fund designed to build advanced manufacturing and industrial capabilities, contributed $10 million to the round, its first investment in the defense sector. “Defense is one of our priority areas,” NRFC CEO David Gall said. “We see huge potential in backing Australian companies and innovations that build sovereign capability while also tapping into the global market for hypersonic and counter-hypersonic technologies among our allies.” QIC Ventures Partner Nicholas Guest said Hypersonix represents “a rare opportunity to back a local company at the forefront of globally significant hypersonic technology.” “This is breakthrough technology allowing Australia and its allies to fly faster, further, and more often, with an unmatched combination of speed, sustainability, and cost advantage,” Guest said. Chairman Arthur Sinodinos, a former US ambassador to Washington and Australian Minister for Science and Industry, said the investment demonstrates that “Australia is stepping up to develop sovereign capabilities that matter.” Hydrogen-powered flight at hypersonic speeds Founded in 2019 by former NASA research scientist and University of Queensland professor Dr Michael Smart, Hypersonix is developing a new class of sustainable, high-performance flight systems powered by green hydrogen. At the heart of Hypersonix’s platform is the SPARTAN scramjet engine, a fully 3D-printed, air-breathing engine with no moving parts that can reach speeds of Mach 12. Unlike conventional scramjets that rely on kerosene, SPARTAN burns hydrogen, producing zero carbon emissions while enabling reusable, low-maintenance hypersonic flight. “SPARTAN is more than a propulsion system. It’s a breakthrough in reusable hypersonic flight,” said Smart, who serves as the company’s chief technology officer. “What we’re building is a sovereign platform that’s clean, cost-effective, and engineered for the real world.” Co-founder David Waterhouse said the capital raise “validates the vision that Australia could lead the world in sustainable hypersonic flight.” Pentagon-backed flight tests Proceeds from the Series A round will help fund the upcoming NASA- and Pentagon-backed flight of DART AE, a 3.5-meter-long hypersonic vehicle powered by the SPARTAN engine. The test flight will take place under the US Department of Defense’s HyCAT program, managed by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), which focuses on accelerating the adoption of commercial technology by the US military. DART AE will launch aboard Rocket Lab’s HASTE booster from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia later this year. The mission is expected to achieve the world’s first sustained hypersonic flight powered by green hydrogen. Hypersonix was the first company selected under the HyCAT initiative, chosen from a field of more than 60 applicants. DIU program manager Maj. Ryan Weed described the effort as a “paradigm shift, viewing the hypersonic realm as a place for aircraft, not just missiles and weapons.” Smart said the funds would also support the expansion of advanced manufacturing in Queensland and the development of Hypersonix’s second aircraft, VISR, an 8-meter-long reusable platform designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, rapid payload delivery, and space system testing. VISR will be powered by four SPARTAN engines and built using high-temperature ceramic composites. From lab to launch pad For Dr. Smart, Hypersonix represents the culmination of decades of research into scramjet propulsion. After working at NASA and leading hypersonic propulsion research at the University of Queensland, he co-founded Hypersonix to bring academic theory into real-world aerospace systems. The SPARTAN engine’s 3D-printed, hydrogen-fueled design offers an edge in both performance and manufacturability. Its reusability, coupled with clean fuel, aligns with growing defense interest in sustainable, repeatable test platforms that can dramatically reduce costs and accelerate flight cadence. Smart said the company’s goal is not only to enable faster flight but also to change how hypersonic systems are designed and tested. “The ability to fly often and affordably is the key to unlocking hypersonics for both defense and commercial use,” he said. Australia’s hypersonic ambition Hypersonic flight, defined as speeds exceeding Mach 5, has become one of the most strategically important frontiers in aerospace and defense. The US, China, and Russia are all racing to develop operational systems, while Australia’s academic research community has long been regarded as a world leader in the field. Sinodinos said Hypersonix represents “the kind of company Australia must support if it wants to lead in future industries.” “This investment is a strong vote of confidence in Hypersonix and in Australia’s ability to lead the world in next-generation aerospace,” he said. The company plans to raise additional capital later this year to support expansion in the US and build out local manufacturing capabilities in Queensland. Hypersonix is getting ready for flight tests with NASA and the Pentagon. The startup will focus on being sustainable, fast, and supporting defense efforts. This approach could help Australia play an important role in the hypersonic race. https://interestingengineering.com/military/world-first-hydrogen-powered-hypersonic-jet GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY REQUEST Dear Fellow Pilot, Researchers at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University are conducting a study to better understand the mental health of professional pilots and the barriers they may face in seeking support. If you are currently a professional pilot, working in any sector and region of the global aviation industry, you are invited to participate in this anonymous, voluntary survey. The survey includes questions on anxiety, depression, self-stigma, and attitudes toward disclosing mental health concerns to civil aviation regulatory bodies (e.g., FAA, EASA, CAA, ANAC, etc.). It takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. No identifying information or IP addresses will be collected, and all responses will remain completely confidential. Your participation will help identify key challenges and support the development of resources and industry practices that prioritize pilot well-being and safety. Thank you for your time and contribution to this important research. Link to the Survey Questionnaire https://forms.gle/AnJuk3TZ2u96SpFq9 Thank you very much for your time and consideration. Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to discuss this further. Best Regards, Bill Deng Pan Ph.D. in Aviation Student CALENDAR OF EVENTS . 78TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL AVIATION SAFETY SUMMIT (IASS) - Lisbon, November 4–6 . 29th annual Bombardier Safety Standdown, November 11-13, 2025; Wichita, Kansas · CHC Safety & Quality Summit, 11th – 13th November 2025, Vancouver, BC Canada . 2026 ACSF Safety Symposium; April 7-9, 2026; ERAU Daytona Beach, FL . 2026 NBAA Maintenance Conference; May 5-7, 2026; New Orleans, LA . BASS 2026 - 71st Business Aviation Safety Summit - May 5-6, 2026 | Provo, Utah . 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