On 29 May, Airbus began its 50th anniversary celebrations with a special formation flight in the skies above France. Sadly, the weather did not cooperate for a planned flypast in Toulouse. Taking part in the special flight were the A220, A319neo, A330-900, A350-1000, A380, and BelugaXL. The Airbus formation was also met by the French Air Force acrobatic team Patrouille de France. (more…)
Episode 48: Aviation 2018: the good, the bad, and the weird
2018 was a year of highs, lows, and head scratchers. We take you through the year that was and we also revisit some of our favorite interviews from last year.
What was new in 2018
We begin the show with new aircraft, either taking to the air for the first time in 2018 or achieving certification and entering service.
Featured interview
8:34 Jon Ostrower, editor-in-chief of The Air Current joined us to discuss Boeing’s plans for its New Mid-market Airplane (NMA), which will likely be unveiled at this year’s Paris Air Show.
Airlines no longer with us
39:00 We revisit some of the airlines that ceased operations in 2018. Brett Snyder at Crankyflier has a full list on his blog.
1:01:44 UPS Airlines Captain Ken Hoke joins us to discuss his life as a cargo pilot flying for UPS Airlines and how that differs from passenger flying.
Let us know what you think
Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving us 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.
As 2019 begins, we look back on a decidedly mixed 2018 for aviation. Positively, a variety of new aircraft entered service and airlines added new and longer routes, bridging continents. Conversely, 2018 erased the previous year’s record streak of fatality-free jet airliner accidents. Here’s our 2018 aviation year in review. (more…)
Thar it flies! — the Airbus BelugaXL Makes First Flight
Airbus’ supersized whale took to the skies for the first time today in Toulouse, spending 4 hours 14 minutes above southern France. The BelugaXL will join the current Beluga fleet in moving Airbus aircraft components between production sites. The BelugaXL is 30% larger than the Beluga, enabling it to carry two A350 wings at a time rather than just one. (more…)
