Boeing’s largest plant in ‘panic mode’ amid safety crisis, say workers and union officials

Boeing’s largest factory is in “panic mode”, according to workers and union officials, with managers accused of hounding staff to keep quiet over quality concerns. The US plane maker has been grappling with a safety crisis sparked by a cabin panel blowout during a flight in January, and intense scrutiny of its production line as regulators launched a string of investigations. Its site at Everett, Washington – hailed as the world’s biggest manufacturing building – is at the heart of Boeing’s… (www.theguardian.com) Más...

Qatar Airways Closes In on Major Boeing, Airbus Widebody Order

Qatar Airways PJSC is nearing a decision on a major widebody order split between Boeing Co. and Airbus SE, according to people familiar with the matter. The Middle East carrier is looking at ordering about 200 jets, with a decision possible as soon as the Farnborough Air Show in the UK late next month, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private matters. The airline is looking at a mix of Airbus A350s and Boeing 777X models, some of the people said, although the split… (www.msn.com) Más...

Qantas Bets Big On Perth Mega Hub For Airbus A350s

Qantas and Perth Airport have signed a long-term agreement to develop a major domestic and international hub, opening up a new gateway to Australia. (simpleflying.com) Más...

First crewed flight of Boeing’s Starliner capsule scrubbed minutes before liftoff

For the second time in a month, the first crewed launch of Boeing’s Starliner space capsule was called off while the crew members were in their seats, waiting for liftoff. (www.geekwire.com) Más...

Unruly Passengers Disrupt Delta Connection Bombardier CRJ900 Flight From Indianapolis To New York LaGuardia

A flight from Indianapolis to New York was delayed due to unruly passengers causing safety concerns. One passenger was arrested for arguing with the crew about bag placement and using threatening language. Delta swiftly deplaned the aircraft, resolved the situation, and apologized for the disruption. A scheduled Delta Connection flight between Indianapolis and New York was delayed on Friday after the aircraft had to return to the gate due to the conduct of some passengers onboard. Once the… (www.msn.com) Más...

Frontier Airlines CEO urges crackdown of ‘rampant abuse’ of airport wheelchair service

The 1986 Air Carrier Access Act requires airlines to provide a wheelchair for passengers with disabilities at the airport. The problem, though, is that many travelers are faking it, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle said. He said he has seen some Frontier flights where 20 people were brought in wheelchairs at departure, with only three using them upon arrival... some travelers were “using wheelchair support to try to get fast-tracked through the airport.” (www.cnbc.com) Más...

FAA Allows United Airlines to Continue Aircraft Deliveries Amid Safety Review

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has allowed United Airlines to continue receiving new aircraft deliveries despite an ongoing regulatory review of the airline following a series of safety incidents. (skygofly.com) Más...