AvTalk - Aviation Podcast

On this episode of AvTalk, the Dubai Airshow wraps up with a long list of major orders and other announcements. The FAA cancels its cancellation order and air traffic in the US returns to pre-government shutdown levels. Plus, anti-GPS jamming technology is coming from Fokker Services in early 2026. We’re also joined by The Up Front editor-in-chief and Airbus A340-600 aficionado/historian John Walton for an in depth discussion on the development and staying power of Airbus’ longest airplane. AvTalk listeners have exclusive access to a special 24% off subscription rate to The Up Front. Helpful links for this week’s show * FAA cancellation order canceled * A340-600 downstairs lavatories * A340-600 “Longer Larger Fart” * Video: Accepting a new E195-E2 * A new SWISS watch  Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, US airspace held together—barely—with hastily announced cuts to flights at major airports going into effect and air traffic controller staffing triggers peaking on Sunday. We also discuss comments from President Trump (09:23-15:28) on controller staffing during the shutdown and what effect that sentiment might have on controllers in the future. Updates on the crash of UPS 2976, including the latest updates from the NSTB and the FAA’s decision to ground the MD-11 fleet for inspections. Australian investigators detail two flights that came extremely close to construction workers on the runway. And United files its response to a lawsuit from passengers who say they paid for a window seat, but all they got was a view of the aircraft sidewall. Listen to the discussion and let us know if you’re also “reasonable people.” Helpful links for this week’s episode * FAA requires flight cuts at 40 major airports * Airline executives skeptical of flight cut justification * UPS 2976 investigative updates * FAA grounds MD-11s for inspections * ATSB report (with video) on pair of close calls at Melbourne Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Published: 14 November 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss what we know so far about the crash of UPS Airlines flight 2976 in Louisville. To manage some of the burden on air traffic controllers during the government shutdown, the US is telling airlines to cancel up to 10% of their flights in major markets. Embraer says it is working on new ideas, but who knows which ones will come to market? And a bill working its way through the legislature in Brazil reads like a list of consumer complaints against airlines. Helpful links for this week’s episode * UPS MD-11(F) crashes on take off in Louisville * US telling airlines to cancel flights at 40 airports * The Air Show podcast (re: American Airlines) Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 7 November 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we chat with Katherine Moloney, a pilot and founder of Elevate(her) Aviation, an organization dedicated to raising the percentage of women in aviation careers around the world. Elevate(her)’s research has led to some obvious immediate changes that would be beneficial to the industry overall and others that offer a more sustainable path to growing the number of women joining—and staying—in aviation. Also in this week’s episode, * Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines now have a single operating certificate and we say goodbye to the “Hawaiian” call sign. * The airACT 747 has been removed from the sea in Hong Kong and investigators are beginning their examination of the data recorders. * The preliminary report on the near collision between a Nouvelair A320 and easyJet A320 in Nice points to just how close the aircraft were to disaster * Hurricane Hunter aircraft collecting data on Hurricane Melissa twice needed to turn out of the storm due to severe turbulence. * A Lufthansa flight took to the long way to Cape Town this week, we discuss the need for the detour. Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss two statistically improbable events — an airACT 747 veered off the runway and struck a vehicle before ending up in the sea and a United Airlines 737-8 MAX struck something at 36,000 feet. We walk through the most likely scenario at this point. Lack of communication (literally) leads to a diversion in Omaha, the NTSB releases its preliminary report on the runway overrun in Roanoke, Boeing is moving up to production of 42 737s per month, and the US Senate advances a bill that would add requirements for ADS-B In usage and remove exemptions for most military flights. Helpful links for this week’s episode * airACT 747 veers off runway in Hong Kong * United Airlines flight diverts after impact at 36,000 feet * Diversion back to Omaha * NTSB report on runway overrun in Roanoke * Senate advances ADS-B IN bill * A new plan for LAX Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Russian president Vladimir Putin admits Russian air defenses damaged Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 before it crashed near Aktau in Kazakhstan. American Airlines unveils its centennial logo ahead of its 100th anniversary next year. More than half of Finnair’s A321 fleet is currently undergoing inspections after the seat covers were washed with water. And there’s money behind a bid to revive Pan Am, with a plan for a hub in Miami. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Data on J28243’s crash in Aktau * American Airlines’ newest special livery retro jet, N735AT * IATA’s Mark Searle WSOC speech on safety * Finnair’s water woes * Boeing’s new electronic standard for parts authentication   Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, we discuss last week’s collision between two Endeavor Air CRJ-900s at La Guardia and what new video tells us about how it happened. Similar to last time the US federal government shut down, focus is on the actions of air traffic controllers. While ATC work slowdowns are widely credited with ending the previous shutdown, there’s reason to believe the situation is different this time around. An Air India 787’s ram air turbine deployed on approach to Birmingham, even though the jet’s engines were functioning normally. The Federation of Indian Pilots is calling for inspection of all Indian 787s as some commentators attempt to draw parallels to the crash of AI171. Spirit Airlines is asking the court for approval to reject 87 more aircraft leases. The rejections, which would take place by the end of the month, would take the airline out of the A320neo family of aircraft entirely. And the Airbus A320 family has just passed the 737 as the highest selling aircraft of all time. Helpful links for this week’s episode * CRJs collide in New York — data and video of the collision * FAA National Airspace status page * Air India RAT deployment flight * Airbus A320 family vs Boeing 737 family operations, 2018-2025 * JetBlue’s new special “Isla del Bluencanto” special Puerto Rican heritage livery * JSX “retro” livery Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we chat with Eliska Hill, Senior Vice President of Cargo for the UK and the rest of the world at Air Partner about the state of the cargo market, where recovery has come post-COVID, and how companies with something to ship are beginning to expect a different level of service. In the Nordics, business is not booming with airlines PLAY and BRA’s Airbus division ending flights and the Greenland airports authority introduces restrictions that cripple Air Greenland’s operations in Nuuk. Boeing begins thinking about possibly at some point, maybe, eventually building a new narrow body airplane. As for aircraft that are real, the FAA now says that Boeing can issue airworthiness certificates for some aircraft, some of the time. After a gear-up landing by a SKYhigh Dominica E190 in Santo Domingo, we learn about the airports recent development of the runway’s adjacent taxiway for takeoffs and landings. And we probe the mystery a revived A380. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Wall Street Journal article on planning for Boeing’s new plane * Spirit’s restructuring plan with lease rejections * NTSB report on jammed printers and distracted controllers * A whale of a mystery: what will happen to MSN 114? Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 3 October 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Nouvelair flight almost lands on top of an easyJet A320 in Nice. In Aalborg, Copenhagen, and Oslo, reported drone sightings put a halt to flights. And we spend a lot of time in the low cost segment of the industry with fresh bad news for Spirit Airlines, Frontier’s CEO hitting back at United’s CEO and Ryanair’s move to all-digital boarding passes. Plus, Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren and Jason are back from their schnitzel-stop tour of European low-cost carriers to fill us in on the state of long-haul, low-cost across the Atlantic. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Nouvelair and easyJet in Nice * FAA SAFO on cabin baggage * N302PQ — Delta’s new tail CRJ-900 Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 26 September 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Spirit Airlines crew is slow to respond to a New York Center controller while in the same airspace as Air Force One, leading to some choice words from the controller. We break down what happened over Long Island. Spirit Airlines tells its pilots union that it needs to find $100 million in savings by October 1 or risk seeking bankruptcy court invalidation of their contract. Meanwhile, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby says United isn’t interested in Spirit’s assets. The US Department of Transportation terminates Delta and Aeromexico’s joint venture, effective 1 January 2026. The FAA proposes fining Boeing $3.1 million for “hundreds” of safety violations dating back to 2023. And after a runway overrun in July, both Air Peace 737 pilots test positive for alcohol, but that’s not why the Captain has been suspended. Helpful links for this week’s episode * ATC audio of Spirit Airlines and Air Force One episode over New York (relevant section begins at 22:45 into the recording) * DOT terminates Delta + Aeromexico joint venture * Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau preliminary report on Air Peace 5N-BQQ * FAA proposes $3.1 million fine against Boeing * Korean Air’s 777 to avoid Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we’re joined by The Up Front editor-in-chief John Walton to discuss the peculiar nature of the Premium Economy cabin on Air Côte d’Ivoire’s new A330neo and the wider issues with cabin certification across the industry. Russian drones enter Polish airspace, triggering a response from NATO and shifting flights further from the border. A WestJet 737 suffers a hard landing at SXM. The NTSB releases its preliminary report on the Delta flight 56 turbulence incident. EMAS makes two saves in one day. And the Spanish airports authority hits back at Ryanair. Helpful links for this week’s episode * No seat, no stowage: The Up Front’s article on the new Air Côte d’Ivoire A330 * The Up Front 24% off subscription offer * Westjet hard landing playback * NTSB preliminary report on DL56 * EMAS saves at Chicago and Boca Raton * AENA statement on Ryanair * Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.  

Transcribed - Published: 12 September 2025

On this week’s AvTalk, we discuss European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen’s flight to Plovdiv—from initial breathless reports talking of circling for hours, using paper maps to land and “praying for landing” to what the data actually tells us. Spirit Airlines files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time in less than a year. Ryanair and the Spanish airports operator AENA are fighting, with Ryanair threatening to withdraw 1 million seats from Spain in the upcoming winter season. And some good news for Embraer as the first E190-E2 goes to Australia and the E2 series wins certification in South Africa. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Von der Leyen’s flight to Plovdiv * ICAO assembly agenda * Southwest begins flying with secondary barriers * Spirit files for Chapter 11 protection again * FAA BVLOS rules for drones * Become the FAA’s prime integrator Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Nuuk, Greenland cancels international flights after security screeners need additional training. Korean Air signals its intent to purchase more than 100 Boeing aircraft, but most of the proposed order is for aircraft not yet certified. Reports are swirling that China is looking to make a massive order for both Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Frontier is taking steps to hasten Spirit’s demise. And authorities in Madagascar expand their investigation into five 777s illegally transferred to Iran off the Malagasy register. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Nuuk security screening problems * Korean Air announcement * Frontier’s new routes * EASA VTOL noise regulations proposal Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 29 August 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, United and Delta Air Lines face lawsuits for charging extra for window seats without a window. Serbian investigators reveal the extent of damages to a Marathon Airlines E195 during takeoff in Belgrade and the chain of errors leading up to the flight. A Finnair ATR (operated by NORRA) has an unfortunate incident with a ground power unit. Air Canada’s flight attendants return to work and a tentative agreement could be the first domino to fall in how flight attendants across the industry are paid. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Marathon Airlines report * Finnair ATR photo * Ryanair Seat 11A (no window) * Spirit Airlines flight through (over) Hurricane Erin Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Spirit Airlines’ second quarter earnings report raises “ongoing concern” concerns and paints a bleak portrait of the airline’s future. A French notification about a Swiss investigation tips us off to a close call by an Aegean A320neo from last November. Brazilian investigators release their final report on the collision between a GOL 737 MAX and a truck on the runway and reveal the incredible sequence of events the prevented the accident from being much, much worse and also how it could have been avoided entirely. The US DOT Office of Inspector General has launched an audit of the FAA’s airspace organization around DCA airport and the ADS-B exceptions provided to military aircraft. Chile has agreed to drop the charges against Ethan Guo, the pilot who landed at Chile’s Antarctic base, but Guo is still stuck for the time being. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Spirit Airlines Q2 financial report * Aegean Airlines flight * GOL 737 MAX vs truck final report * US DOT OIG audit announcement Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, what we learned from days two and three of the NTSB’s hearings on the midair collision at DCA. A Delta A330neo experiences severe turbulence, Boeing adds a new 777-9 to 777X test fleet, and Alaska Airlines unveils a new livery for its 787s. Plus, ANA retires the R2-D2 livery 787, the FAA releases proposed rules for beyond line of sight UAS operations, and Madagascar arrests two people over the transfer of a quintet of 777s to Iran. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Delta A330neo experiences turbulence * Boeing’s fifth 777X flight test aircraft * Cathay Pacific flights add up to 28 hours on a plane * Alaska Airlines new 787 livery * Nolinor’s “new” 737-200 * ANA retires R2-D2 * FAA NPRM for BVLOS UAS OPS * 787 draws world’s largest self-portrait * Wendover video on Scope Clause Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, what we learned from the first of three days of investigative hearings by the NTSB into January’s crash at DCA. Russian investigators peel the layers of problems that led to the crash of a Gazpromavia SuperJet. An American Airlines 737 suffers a landing gear problem and fire in Denver. In our strange new series there’s more animal-related aviation news this week and in honor of our 330th episode, Ian gives Jason a pop quiz on the Airbus A330. Helpful links for this week’s episode NTSB investigative hearings Russian investigator’s report on the SuperJet crash American Airlines 737 playback OIG announcement Nordwind flight to Pyongyang Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 1 August 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian returns from Europe and Jason returns from sitting and staring at the wall for a brand new episode. We discuss the conversation around the Air India flight 171 preliminary report, a close call in Mexico City, and another in Minot, North Dakota. Plus, things are looking up for airlines awaiting Boeing 737 MAX deliveries, the NTSB issues a final report that raises questions about moose meat and the Ship to Theseus, and someone smuggles a turtle onto a flight. Helpful links for this week’s episode Air India flight 171 preliminary report Data on close call in Mexico City Air Force statement on Minot incident NTSB report on Alaska crash Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Indian investigators narrow the focus of their investigation on the crashed 787’s fuel cut off switches. Lufthansa has quite the week with a damaged A340 in need of an unpressurized transatlantic ferry flight, a diverted 747 in South America, and a loose cat locked in a lavatory. A young pilot flies to Antarctica without authorization, raising the ire of the Chilean government. A man is ingested by a Volotea A319 engine in Milan and the NTSB releases its preliminary report on the close call between a Delta A319 and a flight of T-38s in Washington DC. Helpful links for this week’s episode * The Air Current’s report on the AI171 investigation * Lufthansa A340 unpressurized transatlantic ferry flight * Unauthorized flight to Antarctica * Volotea flight in Milan * NTSB Delta—T-38s preliminary report Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Indian investigators have downloaded the data from AI171’s recorders. Chinese authorities decline to release a report on China Southern flight 5735, citing threats to “national security and social stability.” A report on the Heathrow power station fire makes clear that it should have never happened. And a US Air Force base is being overrun by squirrels… again. Helpful links for this week’s episode * China Eastern Airlines flight 5735 data and report announcement * BBC summary of Heathrow transformer fire report * Mexicana’s first E195-E2 * EASA’s take-off performance monitoring system (TOPMS) proposal * Task & Purpose’s piece on squirrels at Minot Air Force Base Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Click here for transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 4 July 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss all that has happened in Middle East airspace over the past week—from the US attack on Iranian nuclear facilities and elaborate diversion flights to the Iranian retaliation against US bases in Qatar and the subsequent airspace restrictions to the fragile cease fire and the gradual opening of airways. We also ponder why nearly two weeks after the crash of Air India flight 171, investigators have still not reviewed the data from the flight data recorders even as both were recovered just days after the crash. And the NTSB holds its probable cause board meeting for the mid-cabin exit door plug blowout aboard Alaska Airlines flight 1282, find that Boeing’s safety culture and the FAA’s lax oversight contributed to the door plug’s ejection from the aircraft as it passed 15,000 feet last January. Helpful links for this week’s episode * The B-2 tanker diversion * NTSB probable cause summary for Alaska 1282 Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss the crash of Air India flight 171 shortly after take off from Ahmedabad last week. What we know, what we don’t know, and possible avenues of investigation. We also examine the situation in the Middle East to see what effects current hostilities between Iran and Israel are having on commercial aviation. And we dig into the order numbers from this week’s Paris Air Show. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Flightradar24 data regarding Air India 171 * Airspace closures in the Middle East * Paris Air Show news round up Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Silver Airways ceases operations immediately and Qantas says subsidiary Jetstar Asia will wind down flights by the end of July. The NTSB releases the preliminary report on the American Airlines 737 fire in Denver. May was a big month for Boeing, with more than 300 orders, while Airbus recorded orders for precisely 0 aircraft. This month’s Paris Air Show has the potential to close the gap. Southwest is looking at “monetizing its order book,” while American Airlines sends the wrong 787 to Naples. And Condor operates five flights in a failed attempt to get passengers from Zurich to Heraklion. Note: this episode was recorded prior to the crash of Air India flight 171 on 12 June. Our discussion of the crash will be available in episode 325 next week. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Silver Airways ceases operations * American Airlines 737 Denver Fire NTSB preliminary report * US restricting aerospace component exports to China * American Airlines sends the wrong 787 to Naples * Condor’s five flights to nowhere, A320 D-AICA * NTSB 3-day hearing scheduled for July 31-August 2 Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Airbus’ Montreal final assembly line is invaded by a family of raccoons. Newark reopens its main runway a few days early as airlines and the FAA jostle over flight cuts. United and JetBlue announce their Blue Sky partnership, while the IATA annual general meeting generates announcements of its own. A Condor flight misses Munich’s curfew by mere seconds and Air India reveals how much flying around Pakistan is costing the airline. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Condor diversion due to missed curfew * Global Airlines LinkedIn post addressing recent media Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason and back home from Stockholm and ready to take on the week’s news. The NTSB is out with a handful of reports, including details on the FedEx 767 bird strike in Newark, Frontier’s hard landing and go around in San Juan, and Alaska Airlines’ main landing gear collapse. We also discuss the crash of a Cessna Citation in San Diego last week. Plus, Boeing says it has a fix for the 777X thrust link problem, which grounded the test fleet for months. Helpful links for this week’s episode * FedEx 767 birdstrike preliminary report * Frontier A321neo hard landing and go around * Delta 717 nose gear collapse * Delta 717 engine problems * Alaska severe turbulence * Alaska main landing gear collapse * Rockwell Turbo Encabulator (original) Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

This week, Gabe Leigh joins Ian and Jason in Stockholm for a special episode of AvTalk. Gabe recounts his experience on the first Global Airlines revenue flight and we discuss the future prospects for the would-be, all-A380 airline. We also get into the interesting media relations strategy being pursued by Global Airlines CEO James Asquith. We also cover Etihad’s aircraft order and surprise route announcement to Charlotte. Spanish investigators release their final report on a Lufthansa pilot’s incapacitation near Zaragoza last February. And the story of how the 747 deal between the US and Qatar unfolded gets murkier. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Gabe’s video review of the inaugural Global Airlines flight * Etihad announces flights to Charlotte * Spanish CIAI report on Lufthansa pilot incapacitation Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review or comment on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason are joined by resident numbers expert Gavin Werbeloff for the facts and figures behind some of the large aircraft we’ve seen this week. There are more changes coming to Newark as the FAA tries to prevent more air traffic control outages. And we dig in to the history of the 747-8I Qatar wants to gift the US and why any thought of quickly turning it into a temporary Air Force One is a flight of fancy. Helpful links for this week’s episode * DOT’s new ATC outline * FAA statements on Newark * P4-HBJ 747-8KB(BBJ) * Qatar orders up to 210 Boeing aircraft * Organ transplant logistics (episode 198) * JetBlue’s special Dunkin’ livery A320 * Emirates’ special Courier Express livery A380 Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, we learn more about what happened at Newark last week, what is still causing dozens of daily cancellations, and what’s being done to mitigate the problem. We also discuss some of the ideas touted by Newark’s biggest user, United Airlines, to improve the situation. We get an update on the situation in India and Pakistan as tensions continue to rise and airlines are staying further away. Plus, just as things at Pratt and Whitney were looking up for the GTF engine, machinists are on strike, with a long work stoppage threatening to further disrupt an already strained supply chain. Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

On this week’s AvTalk, Indian airlines lose access to Pakistani airspace and gain a massive fuel bill. A massive power outage in Spain and Portugal affects millions of passengers, but airports keep moving. Newark falls victim to equipment outages again as Congress proposes $15 billion to modernize air traffic control. And JetBlue and United are said to be in talks about a proposed partnership that could see United back at JFK, but what form that partnership takes long-term is in the hands of United CEO Scott Kirby. And another major aerospace manufacturer lays out its plans for dealing with tariffs. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Indian airlines are routing around Pakistan * House Transport and Infrastructure Committee proposal for ATC modernization (relevant text begins on page 20) * Reuters: JetBlue and United in talks over partnership * Airbus’ announces agreement to acquire Spirit Aerosystems work packages * Air India taxiway takeoff final report   Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, it’s hard numbers, euphemistic language, and a bit of planes on fire. If all of the first quarter earnings reports could be summed up in a single headline, it would be: “Seeking stability in a fluid age of dynamically uncertain softening.” We review Q1 financials from Boeing, Southwest, and others to see how the aerospace industry’s largest players fared at the beginning of the year and what they think the rest of the year has in store. The FAA announces a fast-tracking of the new NOTAM system, it is now supposed to be ready for operational use by September. A Delta A330 engine catches fire in Orlando and the evacuation raises some questions about slide deployment. And one undisclosed podcast listener has a bit of fun with a new domain name: meet UndisclosedAirlines.com. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Boeing Q1 results * Southwest Q1 results * RTX Q1 results * GE Aerospace Q1 results * Embraer Q1 backlog * FAA NOTAM announcement Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss what’s known so far about the crash of a Bell 206 in the Hudson River last week. We also break down the sequence of events after the crash that led to the FAA issuing an emergency grounding order for the helicopter operator. Also this week, more tariff impacts as China reportedly tells its airlines to stop taking delivery of Boeing aircraft, while airlines are getting creative with ways to get around the tariffs. Ian geeks out over Airbus’ performance improvement package for the A330neo that increases the aircraft’s efficiency at low speeds. And Air New Zealand just can’t catch a break as it continues to struggle with engine issues on its A320neo and 787 aircraft. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Playback of Bell 206 N216MH * FAA statement on grounding New York Helicopter Charter Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Jason joins Ian in Chicago for a face to face conversation, which also means it’s a self-edited show this week. The preliminary report on the Swiftair 737 crash in Vilnius looks to human factors as investigators probe how and why one of the aircraft’s hydraulic systems was shut off during the approach. Delta Air Lines is the first major US airline to report quarterly earnings this year and the statements from Delta CEO Ed Bastian do not paint a pretty picture, “With broad economic uncertainty around global trade, growth has largely stalled.” Airline CEOs elsewhere lost their jobs this week, including at Air Baltic and Spirit Airlines. And lessors, airlines, and aircraft component specialists are ramping up their cannibalization of young aircraft in the face of supply constraints. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Swiftair 737 crash preliminary report * Delta Air Lines Q1 2025 earnings * Our previous conversations with former Air Baltic CEO Martin Gauss * NTSB safety recommendation report on bannis latches Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Check back soon for a transcript of this episode.  

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, we learning all about long endurance gas balloons with a world record holder. We learn more about the erroneous TCAS alerts that plagued aircraft near DCA at the beginning of March and what the FAA is doing following a fist fight in the DCA air traffic control tower. Heathrow’s chief continues to defend the airport’s handling of the power outage two weeks ago. And Russian investigators release their final report on Aeroflot flight 1492, which suffered a hard landing and subsequent fire during a diversion back to Moscow in 2019. What does it take to fly a gas balloon from Germany to Scotland? We climb into the basket with Kolja Packard and Wuzi Wagner of the Austria 2 Gas Balloon Team to learn all about long endurance gas ballooning, what makes it challenging, and how you keep busy for days at a time a few thousand feet in the air. Helpful links for this week’s episode * FAA statement on changes at DCA air traffic control * Final report on Aeroflot 1492 * Timelapse of Kolja and Wuzi’s flight from Germany to Scotland Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the lights are back on at Heathrow and investigation into what happened is in full swing. We discuss the Transport Safety Board of Canada’s preliminary report on the Endeavor Air accident in Toronto, including the sequence of events leading up the landing and some the challenges faced during the evacuation. En route to Shanghai, a pilot discovers he’s forgotten his passport; and a Southwest Airlines crew forgets what a runway looks like and attempts to depart on a taxiway. It looks like Boeing is going to trial and Airbus is pushing ahead with hydrogen. And one restaurant gives Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary a taste of his own medicine. Helpful links for this week’s episode * TSB report on Endeavor Air accident * Michael O’Leary’s restaurant bill Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Chris Lomas fills in for a vacationing Jason. The FAA acts on the NTSB’s urgent safety recommendations in DC and reconfigures helicopter routes near DCA. An American Airlines 737 catches fire at the gate in Denver, leading to questions about evacuations when passengers are already deplaning. The NTSB issues its preliminary report on the runway incursion at Chicago-Midway. And Jazeera Airways finds out the hard way how important balloon insurance is. Helpful links for this week’s episode * FAA’s airspace changes in DC area * American Airlines flight 1006 playback * Chicago-Midway runway incursion preliminary report   Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the NTSB releases its preliminary report on the mid-air collision over the Potomac River. In addition to the report, the NTSB also issued a pair of urgent safety recommendations to the FAA regarding the helicopter routes in the Washington DC area. We also discuss the preliminary report from the NTSB on the crash of the Medevac Learjet 55 in Philadelphia. Southwest Airlines this week announced a seismic shift in its strategy and culture as it will begin charging for checked bags in May. We discuss this and the other major changes coming to the airline. And Korean Air unveiled its new corporate identity included a revised livery. Major airlines are banning lithium ion power banks, an Air India flight made a 10 hour flight to nowhere thanks to someone ruining the plumbing system, and there’s a man with a turtle in his pants. Helpful links for this week’s episode * NTSB preliminary report and urgent safety recommendations regarding Washington DC mid-air collision * Learjet 55 preliminary report * Southwest’s presentation to investors elaborating on upcoming changes * Korean Air’s new livery in the air * Video of Korean Air new corporate identity design * Air India’s clogged toilets * Mr Turtle Pants Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, another round of tabloid journalism meets aviation incident as a FedEx bird strike and resulting engine fire lead to breathless headlines. Also this week, the FAA issues a set of Airworthiness directives aimed at the CFM56 engine nacelle, Boeing finishes rework on its 787 backlog, and Aer Lingus finally wins a 28 year old court case. Helpful links for this week’s episode * FedEx 767 diversion playback * FAA Airworthiness directive regarding CFM56 nacelle * Canada TSB preliminary report on Air France A350 tail strike * German lasers for smoother flight * It’s-a me! Mario! (and friends) Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a tale of 3 go arounds. We first visit Chicago, where a Southwest pilot made the quick decision to go around as an unauthorized aircraft crossed the runway. Then we visit San Francisco where an Asiana Airlines A350 descended too low as it approached SFO and went around. And then we end up in Washington DC, where sometimes a go around is just a go around. Also on this week’s episode, more than two dozen aviation industry groups are banding together to call for increased and regular funding of the FAA. ANA makes a surprise and surprising aircraft order. Russia’s government is passing a law to legalize the production of counterfeit aircraft parts. And it might be possible to spend 11 hours in a 737 MAX this summer thanks to Iberojet. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Midway go around ADS-B data + ATC audio * Asiana low altitude alert and go around * Industry group letter on FAA funding * BBC article regarding a death on board Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, an Endeavor Air CRJ-900 ends up upside down in Toronto, but everyone on board makes it out safely. The NTSB provides a detailed update on the mid-air collision in Washington, including the agency’s focus on the helicopter’s altitude and the altitude the pilots believed they were at. We discuss the recent firings of probationary employees at the FAA and what effects this might have on the agency now and in the long term. And for the first time in the airline’s history (sort of), Southwest Airlines is conducting layoffs, with 15% of its corporate workforce being let go. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Endeavor Air crash in Toronto * NTSB updates on DCA crash * The Air Current article on FAA firings * Crankyflier post on Southwest Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Bering Air Cessna 208 crashes near Nome, Alaska. Updates on the mid-air collision in Washington DC and what airspace changes may become permanent. New propulsion technology projects from major manufacturers are being pushed back 5-10 years. And we share the recipe for the ultimate inflight desert. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Bering Air C208 flight path * Alaskan aviation safety expert Colleen Mondor * GOL 737 and pick up truck damage * Nolinor blended wing design Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, we review what we know so far about the mid-air collision between a US Army UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter and a PSA Airlines CRJ-700 in Washington DC, what we don’t know, and some of the avenues of inquiry investigators and authorities are following. We also discuss the crash of a Learjet 55 air ambulance shortly after takeoff near Philadelphia. And finally, we sort through the preliminary report on the crash of Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 near Aktau, Kazakhstan to begin to understand just what an incredible effort it was by the pilots to limp the E190 across the Caspian Sea. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Flight data and other helpful information regarding the crash in Washington DC * Flight data regarding the crash near Philadelphia * Flight data and the preliminary investigative report regarding Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025

Note: this episode of AvTalk was recorded prior to the crash in Washington DC involving a PSA Airlines CRJ-700 and US military H-60 helicopter. We will have complete coverage of the accident and where the investigation stands on next week’s episode. For regular updates, please visit our blog post on the accident here. On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Boom makes a boom for the first time, taking its XB-1 demonstrator aircraft beyond the speed of sound for the first time. The NTSB is investigating a United Airlines flight that experienced “unexpected aircraft movement” over the Ivory Coast. The aircraft diverted to Lagos where a handful of passengers and crew received medical attention. South Korean investigators have released their preliminary report. We discuss the report and which questions the it raises rather than answers. And elsewhere in South Korea an Air Busan A321 was severely damaged by a fire that broke out prior to the aircraft’s departure for Hong Kong. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Boom’s first supersonic flight * United Airlines flight 613 * Jeju Air flight 2216 preliminary report * Judgement in Air Canada gold heist case Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Jason journeys through the European fog for a very special trip to the beach. Snow hits the US Gulf Coast from Houston to New Orleans forcing the cancellation of thousands of flights. The Boeing 777X is flying again and the NTSB releases its final report on the United Airlines 767 hard landing. And on a HiFly A330 this week, a new passenger was added to the manifest mid-flight. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Jason’s video landing in Barra in the Twin Otter * NTSB final report on United 767 hard landing * Photos from HiFly’s baby (born) on board Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 24 January 2025

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, TCAS once again ensures everyone goes home safely, this time avoiding a collision between a Delta A330 and United 737 in Phoenix. A Delta 757 suffers and engine failure on departure from Atlanta. Lufthansa could be in a bit of trouble as the European Commission says the airline must return to preferential pricing for Condor. The EC is also  investigating the airline’s transatlantic joint venture with United and Air Canada. And Air France has released its signature scent, AF001. Helpful links for this week’s show * TCAS at work in Phoenix * Video of Delta 757 engine failure * European Commission notice to Lufthansa * Air France’s Signature Scent Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Pleach click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 17 January 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason are back with their first regular episode of 2025. We get an update on the investigations into the crashes of Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 and Jeju Air flight 2216. We take stock of Boeing’s progress toward a new safety culture one year after the Alaska Airlines 737-9 MAX door plug blowout. We discuss the preliminary report on the ground collision between a landing Japan Airlines A350 and Japan Coast Guard Dash 8. And the transition by Air Greenland from its former hub in Kangerlussuaq to the capital Nuuk is not without challenges. Helpful links for this week’s episode * JTSB preliminary report on A350 and Dash 8 collision * Crankyflier article on Condor’s changes * Someone explain this window fire to us, please Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 10 January 2025

On this special episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason discuss what we know so far about the crashes of an Azerbaijan Airlines E190 in Aktau, Kazakhstan and a Jeju Air 737 in Muan, South Korea. This episode of AvTalk was first released as a video episode on our AvTalk Podcast YouTube channel. For the visual version of the episode, click the link in the show notes below or search AvTalk Podcast on YouTube. All of the visuals from Flightradar24 included in the video can be found on the Flightradar24 blog pages for the respective accidents linked in the show notes. * Video version of the podcast on YouTube * Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 crashes near Aktau, Kazakhstan * Jeju Air flight 2216 crashes in Muan, South Korea   Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.  

Transcribed - Published: 3 January 2025

On this episode of AvTalk, we look back at a trio of our favorite conversations from this past year. In 2024, we were fortunate to speak with experts from across the aviation industry. In this recap of the year, we revisit three conversations with people who helped us understand challenges facing the industry, what it takes to bring a new aircraft to life, and how its possible to seamlessly merge airplanes and Lord of the Rings. Matt Thurber, AIN Media Group editor-in-chief — GPS interference GPS interference, whether through jamming or spoofing, has risen dramatically over the past few years and the industry response has been limited. We talked with AIN Media Group editor-in-Chief Matt Thurber to learn how the aviation and navigation industries and approaching the challenges presented by GPS interference. Gary O’Donnell, Airbus A321XLR head of program Gary O’Donnell has been with the A321XLR program at Airbus from the beginning. Speaking to our Chris Lomas on the occasion of the aircraft’s certification by EASA, O’Donnell tells what it takes to get an aircraft from the drawing board to the skies. Max Comer, Airplane facts with MAX In perhaps the most fun conversation of the year, Ian speaks with Max Comer of Airplane Facts with Max about the meteoric rise in popularity of Max’s social media presence, how we creates his airplane facts videos, and why so many people are enamored with his content. Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason take a deep breath and discuss the New Jersey drones. What are people claiming they’ve seen, why nearly all of the reports are just aircraft, and why you should never, never shine a laser or fire a gun at an airplane—identified or not. Plus, AerLingus takes its first (and second) A321XLRs, Boeing restarts 767/777 production, and the FAA finalizes drug and alcohol testing for repair stations outside the US. And NASA completes the first aircraft accident investigation on another planet.   Helpful links for this week’s episode * DHS, FBI, FAA & DoD Joint Statement on New Jersey drone sightings * Statistics on laser incidents in New Jersey in December 2024 * FAA’s finalized drug and alcohol testing rule * The first aircraft accident investigation on another planet * Flying stinky pigs * Busiest routes of 2024 Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please click here for a transcript of this episode.

Transcribed - Published: 20 December 2024

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian and Jason are back from their travels and back in the studio for a full week’s worth of aviation news. We start with Boeing’s resumption of 737 production and a judge’s rejection of the plea deal negotiated by Boeing and the US Department of Justice. Then we head west for the first major moves by Alaska Airlines as it integrates Hawaiian Airlines into its operations. And in safety news, investigators begin analyzing the black boxes of the crashed Swift Air 737. And the NTSB releases its final report on the inflight upset suffered by a Challenger 300 in 2023, which finds the pilots did not follow proper procedures at multiple points before and during the flight—all starting with an ill-timed delivery of ice. Helpful links for this week’s episode * NTSB report on Challenger 300 * NTSB report on Southwest 737 vs Diamond DA40 Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 13 December 2024

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Ian is joined by Flightradar24 colleague Chris Lomas in Stockholm as Jason finishes his travels in Asia. In this news this week, a marriage proposal involving a helicopter and Flightradar24, Lufthansa’s stake in ITA Airways clears the final hurdle, Aeroflot takes its first wet lease, and a fire fighting Airbus A319 is in the works. Helpful links for this week’s episode * A helicopter marriage proposal * Instrument calibration flight patterns Thank you for listening! Thank you so much for listening to AvTalk! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2024