Aviation and aerospace news covering airlines, aircraft manufacturers, space companies, FAA regulations, and air travel developments.
A Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed in a field near Sourton Down, Devon, during a training exercise at approximately 03:45 BST. Three crew members died. The helicopter was based at RNAS Yeovilton and belonged to the Commando Helicopter Force. Families of the deceased have been informed. An investigation is underway.
The FAA is investigating a close call between JetBlue Flight 1256 and an unresponsive aircraft near Fort Lauderdale Airport on Monday evening. The JetBlue pilot received an onboard alert and avoided a collision; the air traffic controller called the other pilot 'insane.' The incident follows a deadly midair collision in January 2025.
The US Air Force selected GE Aerospace and Rolls-Royce to advance engine designs for future drones under the Medium Thrust Class Autonomous Collaborative Platforms program. GE will complete preliminary design review for its GE426 engine, while Rolls-Royce's award remains unannounced.
Air Canada's COO Mark Nasr said there is still 'friction in the system' regarding Airbus A321XLR deliveries, which are nearly two years late. The airline started flights this month with the jet and plans routes to Toulouse and Copenhagen.
Work has started on a new radar system at Cornwall Airport Newquay to enhance safety and enable testing of drones and advanced aviation. The project is expected to finish this summer. A risk assessment has been submitted to the UK Civil Aviation Authority to open controlled airspace off the Lizard peninsula.
The Snowbird Alumni Association launched a 'No-pause, keep the Snowbirds flying' campaign opposing the temporary grounding after the 2026 season. They propose operating until about 2030 with fewer aircraft and urge Canadians to contact MPs to support the change.
The Air Force lifted the operational pause on the T-38 Talon on May 29 after some aircraft passed inspection. The grounding was ordered on May 19 following a May 12 crash in Mississippi where both pilots ejected safely. The T-38, in service since 1961, is used for pilot training.
Gu Songfen, chief designer of China's J-8 fighter jet family, died Sunday night in Beijing at age 96. A farewell ceremony is set for Saturday. He was a dual academician and recipient of the 2020 State Pre-eminent Science and Technology Award.
Viasat won a contract from Lockheed Martin to supply satellite communications for NOAA's hurricane hunter aircraft. Lockheed is providing two modified C130J planes for the program, expected to enter service in the future.