Will We See The COMAC C919 In The West?
This week, eight China Southern pilots completed the first of the airline's COMAC C919 training. The aircraft is set to be delivered to the carrier in August this year. While the aircraft is set to remain a staple in China, could we see the jet in the fleets of Western airlines? Ryanair's CEO did share that the manufacturing of the jet is good for the West as it "will weaken the order books of both Airbus and Boeing" and create competition. However, in terms of actual non-Asian orders, it may take a long time to be certified in Europe and the US. So, I can't imagine there will be many orders anytime soon. What do you think? Let us know below!
Sumit Singh
37
Tempest: Is The UK Right To Scrap Its 6th Generation Fighter Jet?
With Labor taking power in the UK earlier this month, the new government is undertaking a review of its defense spending. While it hasn’t said that it will outright scrap the Tempest project, there is a high risk that the Strategic Defense Review (SDR) will conclude that it’s not worth the investment. The Tempest was set to be a 6th generation fighter jet, incorporating advanced technologies like machine learning, AI, virtual co*ckpit in-helmet, hypersonic weapons, and much more. It was intended to replace the UK’s fleet of Typhoon jets, which are a crucial part of the nation's defense against threats from Russia, Iran, and potentially China. As a UK resident, I understand entirely the need for more targeted spending and a reassessment of what we’re doing in defense; I also believe it is essential for the UK to invest in sovereign manufacturing skills and bespoke programs for our own defense. But what do you think? Should the UK scrap Tempest and rely on imports for 6th gen fighters, o
Joanna Bailey
11
Do Long-Haul Narrowbody Flights Really Sacrifice Comfort Over Widebodies?
Narrowbody aircraft are increasingly becoming staples on transcontinental and transoceanic routes. The Airbus A321LR is already a regular feature across the Atlantic, and it will soon be joined on long distances by the A321XLR. Critics often tout tight space on narrowbodies as a deterrent to flying on such services. However, after witnessing the likes of JetBlue’s modern Mint product on its A321LR, some of these seats are just as comfortable on some major widebody airline routes. With the industry now getting used to long-haul narrowbody flights, is comfort actually lost here, or does it just depend on the product?
Sumit Singh
15
Are You Looking Forward To The Advent Of eVTOL Networks?
There has been a buzz surrounding eVTOLs for several years now. Companies have long touted how they are set to revolutionize short-haul travel and improve efficiency when it comes to commuting and traveling to and from the airport. As a Londoner, I have been keeping a close eye on the progress of this field as numerous companies have been highlighting how eVTOL networks in major cities can act as an alternative to conventional methods of travel to eliminate traffic woes. As such, I’ve been pretty excited about the advent of this industry. What do you make of the potential of the urban air mobility market? Let us know below!
Sumit Singh
2
What Are The Key Innovations Of The Airbus A220 That Appeal To Regional Carriers?
Over 340 Airbus A220s have been built since the program's launch as the Bombardier CSeries in 2008. The aircraft was introduced in 2016 and regardless of its branding, has become a preference among regional operators across the globe. The innovations of the A220-100 and longer-fuselage A220-300 have contributed to this success. After all, both aircraft share 99% commonality and utilize the engine family, helping carriers save on crew training costs. From Europe's airBaltic to the US' Breeze, operators have praised the A220 cabin's modernity with large windows, high-capacity overhead bins, power outlets, fast WiFi, and ambient LED lighting. The A220 also has 25% less fuel burn per seat and a 25% cost advantage per seat over previous-generation aircraft. My favorite aspect when flying on the type is the abundance of legroom. I once flew on an airBaltic unit and was pleasantly surprised about the room for movement. The airline's -300s have a seat pitch of 32 inches and a width of 18.5 inc
Sumit Singh
4
Does Sustainability Matter To You When Choosing An Airline?
With carbon emissions on the minds of many travelers these days, several booking platforms have made it easier to see what the carbon cost of your flight will be. Google Flights started doing this in 2021, while other sites including Expedia have added the functionality more recently. But does this actually change how we book our flights? For me, if there was a similarly priced flight departing at a similar time with lower emissions, I would probably book it. But price and timing are still the primary decision-makers for which flight I book. How about you?
Joanna Bailey
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