Flight Safety Information - March 20, 2026 No. 057 In This Issue : Incident: Alaska B39M and Fedex B772 at Newark on Mar 17th 2026, cleared to land on crossing runways at same time : Incident: Eurowings A319 at Munich on Mar 17th 2026, rejected takeoff : Incident: Eurowings A319 at Munich on Mar 17th 2026, rejected takeoff : Incident: Delta A333 at Detroit on Mar 16th 2026, smoke in cabin : Incident: PIA A320 enroute on Mar 17th 2026, loss of cabin pressure : US NTSB probes close call in Newark between FedEx, Alaska Airlines jets : FAA To Broaden Mutual Recognition Of MRO Approvals : Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney Carrying One Hundred and Sixty Passengers Face Chaos Near Airport Leaves Crew Injured as Severe Turbulence Sparks Global Aviation Safety Concerns : NBAA Secures Renewal of Small Aircraft Exemption : FAA Launches Annual General Aviation Activity Survey : Airline trashes her $75,000 wheelchair, so she works to change law : Calendar of Events Incident: Alaska B39M and Fedex B772 at Newark on Mar 17th 2026, cleared to land on crossing runways at same time An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 MAX, registration N738AL performing flight AS-294 from Portland,OR to Newark,NJ (USA), was cleared to land on Newark's runway 22L and on short final. A Fedex Federal Express Boeing 777-200 freighter, registration N853FD performing flight FX-721 from Memphis,TN to Newark,NJ (USA), was cleared to land on runway 29 and on short final. When AS-294 was descending through about 250 feet AGL tower instructed the aircraft to go around and climb to 2000 feet. The crew complied, initiated the go around at about 200 feet AGL and climbed above the landing Boeing 777-200. The aircraft was handed off to departure and subsequently to arrival, who assured the crew it had been all ATC's fault and apologized. The aircraft positioned for another ILS approach to runway 22L and landed without further incident. According to ADS-B data transmitted by both aircraft AS-294 in the go around overflew FX-721 on runway 29 at around 300 feet AGL. The FAA reported: "An air traffic controller instructed Alaska Airlines Flight 294 to perform a go-around at Newark International Airport because FedEx Flight 721 was cleared for the final approach to an intersecting runway. The FAA is investigating the event, which occurred around 8:15 p.m. local time on Tuesday, March 17." https://www.avherald.com/h?article=53691362&opt=0 Incident: Eurowings A319 at Munich on Mar 17th 2026, rejected takeoff A Eurowings Airbus A319-100, registration 9H-EXT performing flight EW-6891 from Munich (Germany) to Palma Mallorca,SP (Spain), was accelerating for takeoff from Munich's runway 08R when the crew rejected takeoff at low speed (about 70 knots over ground). The aircraft slowed safely, vacated the runway and stopped on the turnoff for about 10 minutes. Subsequently the aircraft returned to the holding point and departed runway 08R about 20 minutes after the rejected takeoff and reached Palma Mallorca without further incident with a delay of about 5 minutes. A passenger reported the captain announced a "computer problem" as reason for the rejected takeoff. https://www.avherald.com/h?article=536919f6&opt=0 Incident: Wizz Malta A20N at Cluj on Mar 19th 2026, bird strike A Wizz Air Malta A320-200N, registration 9H-WAN performing flight W4-3433 from Cluj (Romania) to Marrakesh (Morocco), was climbing out of Cluj's runway 25 when the aircraft stopped the climb at FL170 and entered a hold following a bird strike. The aircraft subsequently diverted to Bucharest Otopeni (Romania) for a safe landing on runway 08R about 55 minutes after departure. A replacement Wizz Air Airbus A321-200 registration HA-LXA reached Marrakesh with a delay of about 4:20 hours. The occurrence aircraft is still on the ground in Bucharest about 10 hours after landing. https://www.avherald.com/h?article=5368ff05&opt=0 Incident: Delta A333 at Detroit on Mar 16th 2026, smoke in cabin A Delta Airlines Airbus A330-300, registration N826NW performing flight DL-132 from Detroit,MI (USA) to Amsterdam (Netherlands), was climbing out of Detroit's runway 22R when the crew stopped the climb at FL190 reporting smoke in the cockpit and returned to Detroit for a safe landing on runway 22R about 40 minutes after departure and taxied to the apron. The rotation was cancelled. The airline reported the aircraft experienced some smoke in the cabin. Emergency services reported they were alerted for smoke in the cockpit. https://www.avherald.com/h?article=5368fe61&opt=0 Incident: PIA A320 enroute on Mar 17th 2026, loss of cabin pressure A PIA Pakistan International Airlines Airbus A320-200, registration AP-BLB performing flight PK-178 from Fujairah (United Arab Emirates) to Lahore (Pakistan), was climbing out of Fujeirah over the Indian Ocean when the crew initiated the descent to FL100 due to problems with the cabin pressure. The aircraft continued to Pakistan and diverted to Karachi (Pakistan) for a safe landing on runway 07R about 90 minutes later. The airline reported: "During flight, it developed a cabin pressurisation related snag, and as per procedure, it reduced altitude to 10,000 feet. " The remainder of the flight was cancelled, the passengers were rebooked onto other flights to Lahore. The aircraft remained on the ground for about 19.5 hours before returning to service. https://www.avherald.com/h?article=5368fd11&opt=0 US NTSB probes close call in Newark between FedEx, Alaska Airlines jets WASHINGTON, March 19 (Reuters) - The National Transportation Safety Board said on Thursday it was investigating a close call in which an Alaska Airlines flight overflew a FedEx (FDX.N), opens new tab airplane ‌while both jets were attempting to land on crossing runways at Newark Liberty International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration said an air traffic controller instructed Alaska Airlines Flight 294 (ALK.N), opens new tab, a Boeing (BA.N), opens new tab 737, to perform a go-around because FedEx Flight 721, a Boeing 777, was cleared for the final approach to an intersecting ⁠runway at the New Jersey airport near New York City. The FAA said it was investigating the incident. The Reuters Iran Briefing newsletter keeps you informed with the latest developments and analysis of the Iran war. Sign up here. The FAA investigates most airspace incidents, while the NTSB only investigates significant close calls. The Alaska flight was arriving after a flight from Portland, Oregon. It climbed from 300 to 325 feet as it passed over the intersecting runway. Alaska said it had been cleared to land at Newark when air traffic control issued a go around "which our pilots are highly trained ‌for." FedEx said ⁠its crew was following instructions from air traffic control and landed safely without incident at Newark. A series of serious close-call incidents in 2023 prompted Congress to hold hearings that raised questions about FAA air traffic control operations. That prompted the FAA to ⁠take steps to improve its air traffic control operations, which remain short-staffed A January 2025 mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army helicopter near Reagan Washington ⁠National Airport killed 67 people and again raised questions about the FAA's safety performance, prompting the NTSB to issue dozens of recommendations. Earlier this week, the ⁠FAA said it was barring helicopter traffic near major airports operating on visual separation and requiring air traffic controllers to use radar to keep the aircraft apart. https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/ntsb-investigating-close-call-between-fedex-alaska-airlines-jets-2026-03-19/ FAA To Broaden Mutual Recognition Of MRO Approvals The FAA, responding to a years-long industry push, has kicked off a rulemaking that will expand mutual recognition of non-U.S. maintenance organization certificates through bilateral agreements. “We’re doing it. We’ve entered it into rulemaking,” FAA Flight Standards Service General Aviation Group Manager Chris Parfitt said during the Aeronautical Repair Station Association (ARSA) Annual Symposium on March 19. “It is going to be a permissive role. It will allow us to enter into a bilateral, mutual agreement. It does not force us to do so, and the details of any of those would be worked out within the bilaterals themselves.” The change addresses a quirk of U.S. law that limits what international treaties have legal weight. Bilateral aviation safety agreements (BASA) are considered “executive” pacts that cannot supersede U.S. law, including FAA regulations. Because of this, the FAA must issue its own approvals for foreign repair stations, even if the shop is in a country, such as France, covered in a BASA designed to encourage mutual recognition of similar regulatory standards. The only exception is Canada, because the FAA’s Part 43 regulation permits mutual recognition of Transport Canada-issued certificates to domestic aviation maintenance organizations (AMOs). Most other countries face fewer restrictions, making mutual recognition within a BASA a common practice outside the U.S. The proposed rule would expand the process to other countries and groups of states, including the European Union, that have a BASA with the U.S. “We’ve been watching these bilaterals being inked by which, at least in the component space, you don’t need to have a certificate from the other authority, but the FAA by virtue of how part 43 is written, requires that you have an FAA approval,” ARSA EVP Christian Klein said. “What we’re doing is trying to tweak part 43 a little bit so that somebody with a foreign approval, it’s recognized under a bilateral by the FAA.” Aftermarket providers have long sought more streamlined regulatory approvals to permit work on aircraft from around the world. Duplicative audits against similar sets of rules from different countries is costly and time-consuming while offering no safety benefits. An ARSA-led coalition of 14 organizations petitioned the FAA in 2020 seeking a formal rulemaking. The group requested amended regulations “to enable reciprocal acceptance of AMO certificates issued by designated U.S. bilateral partners, and the approvals for return to service issued by those organizations,” the petition said. “Industry’s costs to obtain and retain foreign AMO certificates would be eliminated completely if the domestic authority’s certificate and oversight is the only expenditure required to perform work for a foreign customer,” the group continued. “Adoption of the proposal would also allow agency resources to be directed at continued operational safety elements rather than expenditures to perform certification and oversight operations that are duplicative to the bilateral partner’s efforts.” Parfitt did not put a timeline on the rule, but left little doubt that it is happening. “It has gone through a rulemaking council, it’s been accepted, and it just received its [regulation identifier number]” that codifies it as a formal regulator action, he said. https://aviationweek.com/mro/safety-ops-regulation/faa-broaden-mutual-recognition-mro-approvals Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney Carrying One Hundred and Sixty Passengers Face Chaos Near Airport Leaves Crew Injured as Severe Turbulence Sparks Global Aviation Safety Concerns Delta air lines flight airbus a350 from los angeles to sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers face chaos near airport leaves crew injured as severe turbulence sparks global aviation safety concerns Image generated with Ai Delta Air Lines Flight chaos unfolds as an Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces severe turbulence near the airport, leaving crew injured and raising global aviation safety concerns. As Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces chaos again, severe turbulence continues to spark global aviation safety concerns with urgency and intensity. Moreover, as severe turbulence disrupts stability, Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers repeatedly highlights how crew injured incidents escalate global aviation safety concerns. However, this is not isolated. It is evolving. It signals that Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces chaos in a way that severe turbulence increasingly shapes global aviation safety concerns. Consequently, attention grows. Risks rise. Awareness expands. Therefore, Travel And Tour World urges readers to read the entire story, because as Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces chaos and leaves crew injured, severe turbulence continues to spark global aviation safety concerns that could redefine future air travel. What exactly happened on the Delta Air Lines flight approaching Sydney? A Delta Air Lines flight from Los Angeles to Sydney encountered severe turbulence during its final approach on Friday, leaving multiple crew members injured. Flight 41, operated by an Airbus A350, was carrying 160 passengers and crew when it experienced what the airline described as “brief turbulence.” Despite the sudden disruption, the aircraft landed safely and normally at Sydney Airport. However, the impact of the turbulence was strong enough to injure several individuals onboard, particularly flight attendants who were actively working in the cabin. Who were the individuals injured during the turbulence incident? According to airline and emergency service reports, the injuries were primarily sustained by flight attendants rather than passengers. Four cabin crew members were confirmed injured by Delta, while paramedics assessed a total of five individuals. Three were transported to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital with what were described as musculoskeletal and lower back concerns. Although Delta maintained that passengers were not among those injured, local Australian media indicated that individuals across different age groups may have been affected, highlighting initial discrepancies in reporting. How did emergency services respond upon landing? Emergency crews were already positioned on the tarmac as the aircraft touched down, indicating a coordinated response to the incident. NSW Ambulance personnel conducted immediate assessments of those injured, ensuring rapid medical attention. Three individuals required hospital transport, while others were treated on-site. The swift response minimised risks and ensured that injuries, although concerning, were categorised as minor. This coordinated effort underscores the preparedness of airport emergency services in handling aviation-related incidents efficiently and professionally. Why is turbulence becoming a growing concern in aviation? Turbulence, particularly severe or unexpected forms, has increasingly become a focal point in aviation safety discussions. Experts suggest that changing atmospheric conditions linked to climate change are contributing to more frequent and intense turbulence events. Variations in temperature and shifting wind patterns can create unstable air currents, often without visible warning. While severe turbulence remains rare, its unpredictability poses challenges for airlines, crew, and passengers alike, prompting renewed emphasis on safety protocols and awareness. How rare are severe turbulence incidents like this? Despite heightened attention, severe turbulence incidents remain statistically rare. Aviation data indicates that only approximately one in 7,000 flights encounters strong or severe turbulence. However, when such events occur, they can have significant consequences, particularly for individuals not secured by seatbelts. The rarity does not diminish the seriousness of these incidents, as even brief episodes can result in injuries. This balance between low probability and high impact makes turbulence a unique risk factor within aviation operations. How does this incident compare with other recent turbulence events? This latest incident follows a series of turbulence-related cases involving major airlines. In July, a Delta flight from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam experienced significant turbulence, resulting in over two dozen hospitalisations after diverting to Minneapolis. Similarly, an American Airlines flight in June reported injuries due to unexpected turbulence, including serious harm to crew members. One of the most severe cases occurred in May 2024, when a Singapore Airlines flight encountered extreme turbulence, leading to one fatality and multiple critical injuries. What safety protocols are in place to handle turbulence? Airlines adhere to strict safety procedures designed to mitigate the risks associated with turbulence. Pilots rely on weather radar, satellite data, and communication with other aircraft to anticipate turbulent conditions. Cabin crew are trained to secure the cabin quickly, ensuring passengers are seated with seatbelts fastened. In response to recent incidents, some airlines have revised policies, including suspending meal services when turbulence risks are elevated. These measures aim to reduce exposure to potential injuries during unexpected air disturbances. How do aircraft like the Airbus A350 handle turbulence? Modern aircraft such as the Airbus A350 are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, including severe turbulence. The aircraft’s design incorporates advanced materials and structural flexibility, allowing it to absorb and respond to sudden air movements safely. While passengers may feel discomfort or fear during turbulence, the aircraft itself remains highly resilient. The safe landing of the Delta flight highlights the robustness of modern aviation technology, even when faced with unexpected environmental challenges. What role does crew training play in such situations? Crew training is critical in managing turbulence-related incidents effectively. Flight attendants undergo rigorous preparation to handle emergency scenarios, including securing the cabin and assisting injured passengers. Pilots are trained to respond quickly to turbulence by adjusting altitude or speed to stabilise the aircraft. The professionalism displayed during this incident reflects the effectiveness of such training. Despite the injuries sustained, the crew ensured that the flight landed safely, demonstrating the importance of preparedness and discipline. How might climate change influence future air travel conditions? Climate change is increasingly being linked to changes in atmospheric behaviour, including the frequency and intensity of turbulence. Warmer air temperatures and altered jet stream patterns can create more unstable flying conditions. Experts warn that clear-air turbulence—often undetectable by radar—may become more common. This could lead to more frequent in-flight disruptions, requiring airlines to adapt operational strategies, enhance forecasting technologies, and reinforce passenger safety measures to address evolving environmental risks. What does this incident mean for passenger safety awareness? Incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of passenger vigilance during flights. Safety guidelines, such as keeping seatbelts fastened even when the sign is off, are crucial in preventing injuries. Many turbulence-related injuries occur when passengers or crew are unrestrained. Increased awareness and adherence to safety instructions can significantly reduce risks. Airlines continue to emphasise these precautions, recognising that passenger behaviour plays a vital role in overall flight safety. Could turbulence incidents impact airline policies moving forward? The growing attention on turbulence-related injuries may prompt airlines to review and enhance their operational policies. This could include stricter enforcement of seatbelt rules, adjustments to in-flight service procedures, and increased investment in turbulence detection technology. Some airlines have already taken proactive steps following past incidents. As the industry evolves, safety measures are likely to become more dynamic, reflecting both technological advancements and emerging environmental challenges. The Delta Air Lines turbulence incident near Sydney underscores the unpredictable nature of aviation, even in an era of advanced technology and stringent safety standards. While the aircraft landed safely and injuries were relatively minor, the incident highlights broader concerns about increasing turbulence and its implications for the future of air travel. As airlines, regulators, and experts continue to adapt, passenger awareness and adherence to safety protocols remain essential. This incident serves as both a warning and a lesson in maintaining vigilance in an ever-changing aviation landscape. Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faced chaos near the airport as severe turbulence left crew injured and sparked global aviation safety concerns. The incident highlights how severe turbulence is becoming a growing challenge, raising questions about safety protocols and climate-related impacts on aviation. As Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces repeated attention, the event underscores the need for stronger awareness and preparedness. Ultimately, severe turbulence continues to spark global aviation safety concerns across the industry. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/delta-air-lines-flight-airbus-a350-from-los-angeles-to-sydney-carrying-one-hundred-and-sixty-passengers-face-chaos-near-airport-leaves-crew-injured-as-severe-turbulence-sparks-global-aviation-safety/ Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney Carrying One Hundred and Sixty Passengers Face Chaos Near Airport Leaves Crew Injured as Severe Turbulence Sparks Global Aviation Safety Concerns Delta air lines flight airbus a350 from los angeles to sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers face chaos near airport leaves crew injured as severe turbulence sparks global aviation safety concerns Image generated with Ai Delta Air Lines Flight chaos unfolds as an Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces severe turbulence near the airport, leaving crew injured and raising global aviation safety concerns. As Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces chaos again, severe turbulence continues to spark global aviation safety concerns with urgency and intensity. Moreover, as severe turbulence disrupts stability, Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers repeatedly highlights how crew injured incidents escalate global aviation safety concerns. However, this is not isolated. It is evolving. It signals that Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces chaos in a way that severe turbulence increasingly shapes global aviation safety concerns. Consequently, attention grows. Risks rise. Awareness expands. Therefore, Travel And Tour World urges readers to read the entire story, because as Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces chaos and leaves crew injured, severe turbulence continues to spark global aviation safety concerns that could redefine future air travel. What exactly happened on the Delta Air Lines flight approaching Sydney? A Delta Air Lines flight from Los Angeles to Sydney encountered severe turbulence during its final approach on Friday, leaving multiple crew members injured. Flight 41, operated by an Airbus A350, was carrying 160 passengers and crew when it experienced what the airline described as “brief turbulence.” Despite the sudden disruption, the aircraft landed safely and normally at Sydney Airport. However, the impact of the turbulence was strong enough to injure several individuals onboard, particularly flight attendants who were actively working in the cabin. Who were the individuals injured during the turbulence incident? According to airline and emergency service reports, the injuries were primarily sustained by flight attendants rather than passengers. Four cabin crew members were confirmed injured by Delta, while paramedics assessed a total of five individuals. Three were transported to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital with what were described as musculoskeletal and lower back concerns. Although Delta maintained that passengers were not among those injured, local Australian media indicated that individuals across different age groups may have been affected, highlighting initial discrepancies in reporting. How did emergency services respond upon landing? Emergency crews were already positioned on the tarmac as the aircraft touched down, indicating a coordinated response to the incident. NSW Ambulance personnel conducted immediate assessments of those injured, ensuring rapid medical attention. Three individuals required hospital transport, while others were treated on-site. The swift response minimised risks and ensured that injuries, although concerning, were categorised as minor. This coordinated effort underscores the preparedness of airport emergency services in handling aviation-related incidents efficiently and professionally. Why is turbulence becoming a growing concern in aviation? Turbulence, particularly severe or unexpected forms, has increasingly become a focal point in aviation safety discussions. Experts suggest that changing atmospheric conditions linked to climate change are contributing to more frequent and intense turbulence events. Variations in temperature and shifting wind patterns can create unstable air currents, often without visible warning. While severe turbulence remains rare, its unpredictability poses challenges for airlines, crew, and passengers alike, prompting renewed emphasis on safety protocols and awareness. How rare are severe turbulence incidents like this? Despite heightened attention, severe turbulence incidents remain statistically rare. Aviation data indicates that only approximately one in 7,000 flights encounters strong or severe turbulence. However, when such events occur, they can have significant consequences, particularly for individuals not secured by seatbelts. The rarity does not diminish the seriousness of these incidents, as even brief episodes can result in injuries. This balance between low probability and high impact makes turbulence a unique risk factor within aviation operations. How does this incident compare with other recent turbulence events? This latest incident follows a series of turbulence-related cases involving major airlines. In July, a Delta flight from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam experienced significant turbulence, resulting in over two dozen hospitalisations after diverting to Minneapolis. Similarly, an American Airlines flight in June reported injuries due to unexpected turbulence, including serious harm to crew members. One of the most severe cases occurred in May 2024, when a Singapore Airlines flight encountered extreme turbulence, leading to one fatality and multiple critical injuries. What safety protocols are in place to handle turbulence? Airlines adhere to strict safety procedures designed to mitigate the risks associated with turbulence. Pilots rely on weather radar, satellite data, and communication with other aircraft to anticipate turbulent conditions. Cabin crew are trained to secure the cabin quickly, ensuring passengers are seated with seatbelts fastened. In response to recent incidents, some airlines have revised policies, including suspending meal services when turbulence risks are elevated. These measures aim to reduce exposure to potential injuries during unexpected air disturbances. How do aircraft like the Airbus A350 handle turbulence? Modern aircraft such as the Airbus A350 are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, including severe turbulence. The aircraft’s design incorporates advanced materials and structural flexibility, allowing it to absorb and respond to sudden air movements safely. While passengers may feel discomfort or fear during turbulence, the aircraft itself remains highly resilient. The safe landing of the Delta flight highlights the robustness of modern aviation technology, even when faced with unexpected environmental challenges. What role does crew training play in such situations? Crew training is critical in managing turbulence-related incidents effectively. Flight attendants undergo rigorous preparation to handle emergency scenarios, including securing the cabin and assisting injured passengers. Pilots are trained to respond quickly to turbulence by adjusting altitude or speed to stabilise the aircraft. The professionalism displayed during this incident reflects the effectiveness of such training. Despite the injuries sustained, the crew ensured that the flight landed safely, demonstrating the importance of preparedness and discipline. How might climate change influence future air travel conditions? Climate change is increasingly being linked to changes in atmospheric behaviour, including the frequency and intensity of turbulence. Warmer air temperatures and altered jet stream patterns can create more unstable flying conditions. Experts warn that clear-air turbulence—often undetectable by radar—may become more common. This could lead to more frequent in-flight disruptions, requiring airlines to adapt operational strategies, enhance forecasting technologies, and reinforce passenger safety measures to address evolving environmental risks. What does this incident mean for passenger safety awareness? Incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of passenger vigilance during flights. Safety guidelines, such as keeping seatbelts fastened even when the sign is off, are crucial in preventing injuries. Many turbulence-related injuries occur when passengers or crew are unrestrained. Increased awareness and adherence to safety instructions can significantly reduce risks. Airlines continue to emphasise these precautions, recognising that passenger behaviour plays a vital role in overall flight safety. Could turbulence incidents impact airline policies moving forward? The growing attention on turbulence-related injuries may prompt airlines to review and enhance their operational policies. This could include stricter enforcement of seatbelt rules, adjustments to in-flight service procedures, and increased investment in turbulence detection technology. Some airlines have already taken proactive steps following past incidents. As the industry evolves, safety measures are likely to become more dynamic, reflecting both technological advancements and emerging environmental challenges. The Delta Air Lines turbulence incident near Sydney underscores the unpredictable nature of aviation, even in an era of advanced technology and stringent safety standards. While the aircraft landed safely and injuries were relatively minor, the incident highlights broader concerns about increasing turbulence and its implications for the future of air travel. As airlines, regulators, and experts continue to adapt, passenger awareness and adherence to safety protocols remain essential. This incident serves as both a warning and a lesson in maintaining vigilance in an ever-changing aviation landscape. Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faced chaos near the airport as severe turbulence left crew injured and sparked global aviation safety concerns. The incident highlights how severe turbulence is becoming a growing challenge, raising questions about safety protocols and climate-related impacts on aviation. As Delta Air Lines Flight Airbus A350 from Los Angeles to Sydney carrying one hundred and sixty passengers faces repeated attention, the event underscores the need for stronger awareness and preparedness. Ultimately, severe turbulence continues to spark global aviation safety concerns across the industry. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/delta-air-lines-flight-airbus-a350-from-los-angeles-to-sydney-carrying-one-hundred-and-sixty-passengers-face-chaos-near-airport-leaves-crew-injured-as-severe-turbulence-sparks-global-aviation-safety/ NBAA Secures Renewal of Small Aircraft Exemption Exemption opens access to certain FAR Part 91 Subpart F provisions The FAA has renewed the NBAA small-aircraft exemption through March 31, 2028, enabling association members to take advantage of certain cost-sharing and maintenance provisions that otherwise are limited to operations of large, turbine-powered aircraft. Under Exemption 7897N, operators of small aircraft—those 12,500 pounds or less—and rotorcraft can use alternative maintenance programs and receive limited cost reimbursement for certain flights under FAR Part 91 Subpart F. This allows for common flight department activities such as transporting guests on company aircraft or for subsidiary employees to use the plane, NBAA explained, noting that Part 91 Subpart F also permits time sharing, interchange, and joint ownership agreements. As written, those provisions have only applied to multi-engine jet aircraft, fractional ownership aircraft, or those that weigh more than 12,500 pounds. But in 1994, NBAA secured an exemption on behalf of its membership that extends the applicability to small aircraft, including pistons. That exemption has been routinely extended since. “For many years, this important exemption has enabled NBAA members operating piston-powered aircraft, small airplanes, and rotorcraft to take advantage of the cost-sharing provisions in Part 91 Subpart F,” said Doug Carr, NBAA senior v-p of safety, security, sustainability, and international affairs. “Members intending to use this exemption should carefully review and comply with all applicable conditions and limitations of the extended NBAA Small Aircraft Exemption.” Operators who would like to use the exemption for the first time must submit a letter of intent to the FAA. NBAA has created a tool to assist operators with that process. The association further advised that members already using the exemption are not required to submit a new letter of intent but should carry a copy of the newest exemption, 7897N, on their aircraft. However, operators must still notify their Flight Standards District Office of their continued intent under the latest exemption extension. https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2026-03-17/nbaa-secures-renewal-small-aircraft-exemption FAA Launches Annual General Aviation Activity Survey Industry appeals for participation The FAA has kicked off its annual General Aviation and Part 135 Activity Survey to monitor key activity surrounding the general aviation fleet, such as hours flown and the ways aircraft are used, NATA said. Each year, the agency reaches out to about 80,000 general aviation aircraft owners and operators, representing nearly 30% of the fleet, according to AOPA. This year, the contractor administering the survey, Tetra Tech, has sent out postcards and emails with participation links to those selected. NATA and AOPA, along with other industry associations, have long stressed the importance of participation, noting that the survey is the primary source of information on the general aviation fleet used to develop safety metrics, including fatal accident rates. In addition, the data is used to understand the impact the industry has on jobs and economic output, as well as plays a role in infrastructure and service funding decisions. “The FAA and industry need accurate data on a broad range of aircraft. Your participation is voluntary, but we need your help,” NATA said. https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2026-03-19/faa-launches-annual-ga-survey Airline trashes her $75,000 wheelchair, so she works to change law Emily Ladau's story is just one among thousands, and she's pressing federal regulators to allow mobility devices in flight cabins More than 11,000 wheelchairs or mobility scooters are damaged, delayed or lost each year during air travel, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Behind that statistic are the profound hardships and indignities for people who depend on them. One is Emily Ladau, whose wheelchair has been damaged on multiple occasions, most recently this month. Ladau is the author of the book “Demystifying Disability: What to Know What to Say and How to Be an Ally.” In an interview with NJ Spotlight News, Ladau shares her experience and how airlines can better accommodate passengers with disabilities. This interview has been lightly edited. Joanna Gagis, anchor: What happened to your wheelchair? Emily Ladau: I wish it was under better circumstances, but I am really glad to be raising awareness about this issue. I flew from LaGuardia Airport to Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport, and it was on Delta Airlines. When I arrived, I was informed that my wheelchair had taken a fall while they were removing it from the airplane. And it is a 450-pound device. A fall is quite dangerous for something that heavy. And it turned out that the wheelchair was totaled. It was completely destroyed. JG: The cost of that wheelchair — what is it? EL: It is a little over $75,000 because it is a custom wheelchair. So it’s not just a standard-issue. There are multiple features that it has, including elevation, because it helps me reach things. It has a tilt and recline function, which is for my safety, so that I can relieve pressure and avoid pressure sores. It’s also custom measured to my specifications. JG: Here you are landing in Minneapolis, about to go do a speech. You are a disability rights advocate. What happens next? How do you then get around? What is your mobility at that point? EL: Well, I was at first in quite a panic because without my wheelchair, I have no way of getting around. I am unable to walk. So my wheelchair is essentially akin to legs for me. It is my freedom of movement and mobility. The complaint resolution team at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport immediately got in touch with the company that they contract with called ScootAround, and it is ScootAround’s job to help source a loaner wheelchair. My wheelchair is custom. So it’s not as though you can just pull one off the shelf and give it to me. And it’s not as though they’re always in immediate supply. But miraculously, within about four-and-a-half hours, they were able to source a wheelchair for me. It was not at all the right dimensions. It was much too large for me and it was hard for me to sit in. But it did have an elevation feature which was essential for me to be able to transfer in and out of it. I actually consider myself quite lucky that they were able to find a functional solution for me to get out of the airport. JG: You had posted on social media just before this trip because you shared concerns about this. What is the impact on you and so many thousands of others who depend on their wheelchairs or scooters for mobility when it comes to deciding whether or not you can travel — whether or not you can go on a honeymoon, in your example? EL: I’m really glad that you mentioned it’s not just me. The implications are incredibly far-reaching. There are so many times when stories like this go completely under the radar and the implications are very far reaching. For me, I was traveling because it was a business trip. I was going to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for a speaking engagement. And so not being able to travel puts my livelihood at risk. But my husband and I were also supposed to go on our honeymoon to London next month. And after the, quite frankly, trauma of having my wheelchair broken, we just could not fathom getting back on an airplane. Not to mention, we didn’t know if I would yet have a replacement workable wheelchair. So this is a matter of impacting livelihood. It’s a matter of impacting leisure. And beyond that, it’s just a matter of impacting people’s freedom of choice to go where they want to go, when they want to go there. JG: You are calling on the Federal Aviation Administration to make a change that allows folks who depend on a wheelchair to stay in that wheelchair on their flights. Where is the FAA, as far as you understand, in terms of considering that rule? EL: Under the previous administration, there was a lot of work being done to hold airlines accountable and hopefully either prevent damage to a wheelchairs or at least eliminate the hoops that people have to jump through if their wheelchairs or mobility equipment are damaged in flight. I am at the very least calling on the Federal Aviation Administration to not roll back the work that was done on implementing those heavier protections for the disability community in the hopes that they really will hold the feet of the airlines to the fire. But beyond that, there is an organization called All Wheels Up that’s been working with the FAA to crash-test the technology needed to allow wheelchair users to roll their mobility equipment right onto the airplane and stay in their mobility equipment and just have it tied down and secured in the same way that you might if you were rolling onto a public bus, for example. JG: Would that then require more open rows on airplanes to accommodate folks who need wheelchairs? EL: There’s a financial concern about it, but the technology that’s being developed is such that the airline wouldn’t have to lose money because the seats would be replaceable if they weren’t filled by a wheelchair user. So it’s not as though the seats would go empty. Right now we have the testing. We have the technology. What we need is the airline industry and the FAA to work together to implement it. And it will be time and effort, but it will not be at a significant loss because it will open up more travel opportunities for people with disabilities and people who use mobility devices. And they won’t have to pay for the damaged equipment. And beyond that, they’re not going to lose the seats on the airplanes. It’s really a win-win for everybody. https://www.njspotlightnews.org/2026/03/airline-trashes-her-75000-wheelchair-so-she-works-to-change-law/ CALENDAR OF EVENTS . CANSO Global Safety Conference 2026 - 29 March – 1 April 2026 (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) . 60th Annual SMU Air Law Symposium - March 31 - April 1, 2026 (Irving, TX) . 2026 ACSF Safety Symposium; April 7-9, 2026; ERAU Daytona Beach, FL . 2026 NBAA Maintenance Conference; May 5-7, 2026; New Orleans, LA . World Aviation Training Summit - 5-7 May 2026 - Orlando . BASS 2026 - 71st Business Aviation Safety Summit - May 5-6, 2026 | Provo, Utah . The African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit - May 19-20 | Johannesburg, South Africa . Safeskies Australia - Australia’s renowned Aviation Safety Conference - Canberra Australia 20 and 21 May 2026 : APSCON/APSCON Unmanned 2026 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL - July 13-17, 2026 : Aircraft Cabin Air International Conference - 22-23 September 2026 . IATA World Maintenance & Engineering Symposium (23-25 June, Madrid, Spain) . 2026 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) Oct. 20-22, 2026 | Las Vegas, NV Curt Lewis