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Episode 146: Train versus plane

On this episode of AvTalk, we break down Airbus and Boeing order and delivery numbers for 2021, the FAA’s mysterious ground stop in the western US, and an improbable double crash in California.

Order and deliveries

Airbus and Boeing reported the yearly order and delivery figures this week. We pick out some of the interesting bits and run the numbers.

A most peculiar ground stop

The FAA ground stopped traffic in the western US and actually forced some aircraft to land during a brief period on Monday before quickly giving the all-clear. What we know so far (Spoiler alert: not much).

A double crash

A pilot departing a small LA airport crashed his Cessna onto a railroad crossing and was pulled from the wreckage seconds before a train smashed the aircraft to bits.

Aviastar-Tu’s Tu-204C ground fire

While preparing to depart Hangzhou, the aircraft’s cargo area caught fire.

Qantas returns the A380 to service

Qantas operated its first A380 passenger flight since March 2020 this week, marking the early return of the Super Jumbo by the Australian airline.

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