SEATTLE, WA – Marking the end of an era in Pan-American aviation, Alaska Airlines has officially terminated its nearly decade-old codeshare and loyalty partnership with LATAM Airlines Group. The split, finalised in a formal filing to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on December 29, 2025, follows a phased winding down of reciprocal benefits that began earlier in the autumn.
The dissolution concludes a relationship that began in April 2016, which once provided Alaska Airlines with a vital foothold in the South American market. Industry analysts cite the 2020 entry of Delta Air Lines as a major shareholder in LATAM, combined with Alaska’s 2021 integration into the oneworld alliance, as the primary catalyst for the divorce.
The termination coincides with a massive overhaul of Alaska’s loyalty ecosystem. The carrier recently rebranded its famed Mileage Plan to Atmos Rewards, a unified loyalty initiative launched in collaboration with Hawaiian Airlines.
"While we value the history we shared with LATAM, our strategic focus has shifted toward deeper integration within the oneworld alliance and targeted partnerships that align with our West Coast hub strengths," an Alaska Air Group spokesperson stated.
As of October 1, 2025, reciprocal point redemptions between the two carriers have ceased. Travellers should note the following critical deadlines for points earning:
Bookings made before August 31, 2025: Will earn Atmos Rewards points regardless of the travel date.
Bookings made in September 2025: Will earn points only if travel is completed by December 31, 2025.
New Bookings (Post-Oct 1, 2025): No longer eligible for reciprocal mileage accrual.
To fill the void left by the LATAM departure, Alaska is aggressively expanding its "Global Partner" network, moving away from South American connectivity toward Transatlantic and Transpacific corridors. The airline has recently solidified ties with Starlux Airlines (Taiwan) and Icelandair, ensuring that Seattle-based travellers maintain global reach through different gateways.
As part of this "New Frontier" strategy, Alaska has announced its own long-haul metal expansion, including a highly anticipated non-stop service to the North Atlantic.
Following the pivot away from the LATAM codeshare, Alaska is prioritising its own international long-haul expansion and new partner-supported routes. The following table highlights the flagship "post-LATAM" operations commencing in 2026.
| Flight No. | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Operating Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AS802 | Seattle (SEA) – Reykjavik (KEF) | 19:30 | 11:10 (+1) | 7h 40m | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat |
| AS803 | Reykjavik (KEF) – Seattle (SEA) | 13:20 | 15:15 | 8h 55m | Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun |
| JX001* | Taipei (TPE) – Seattle (SEA) | 20:00 | 16:15 | 11h 15m | Daily |
| JX002* | Seattle (SEA) – Taipei (TPE) | 23:10 | 05:40 (+2) | 13h 30m | Daily |
| AS1240 | Miami (MIA) – Seattle (SEA) | 07:00 | 10:45 | 6h 45m | Daily |
Note: Flights marked with (*) represent Starlux Airlines partner operations newly integrated into the Atmos Rewards booking engine as primary alternatives to previous southern codeshares. All times are local.
While the codeshare has ended, a basic interline agreement remains in place. This means passengers can still book single-ticket journeys involving both Alaska and LATAM for the purpose of baggage transfer, but they will no longer enjoy "seamless" check-in, reciprocal lounge access, or the ability to earn elite-qualifying miles across the two networks.
For those seeking to travel to South America, Alaska Airlines now points its Atmos Rewards members toward oneworld partners American Airlines and British Airways as the primary conduits for regional redemptions.
""" },{ "title":"Global Drone Wingman Programs Accelerate Toward Critical 2026 Milestones as Competition Intensifies", "blurb":"The race to field operational autonomous "loyal wingman" drones is accelerating into overdrive as 2026 approaches, with the United States Air Force poised to make critical production decisions, Australia demonstrating combat capabilities with live weapons, and rival programs in Europe and Asia rapidly maturing.", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/30/2025", "cover":"190520-boeing-airpower-teaming-system-cs-1047a.webp", "views":133, "bodyHTML":"""
The race to field operational autonomous "loyal wingman" drones is accelerating into overdrive as 2026 approaches, with the United States Air Force poised to make critical production decisions, Australia demonstrating combat capabilities with live weapons, and rival programs in Europe and Asia rapidly maturing.
The USAF is on track to make a competitive production decision for the first increment of its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program in fiscal year 2026, with plans to field a fully operational capability before the decade's end.
Following the successful first flights of both Increment 1 prototypes in 2025, the service is now one step closer to the final production decision. The YFQ-42A from General Atomics and the YFQ-44A from Anduril Industries have both transitioned to flight testing, generating critical performance data.
The F-22 Raptor will be the first operational platform to control CCAs, with new tablet-based control systems scheduled for installation beginning in Fiscal Year 2026. This $15 million initiative will retrofit combat-coded Raptors to serve as airborne controllers for the autonomous systems.
Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall anticipates ordering more than 100 CCAs over the next five years as part of Increment 1, with the service ultimately targeting a fleet exceeding 1,000 aircraft paired with F-22s, F-35s, the future Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter, and strategic platforms.
Australia's MQ-28 Ghost Bat program delivered a watershed moment in December 2025, becoming the first autonomous aircraft to complete an air-to-air weapon engagement with an AIM-120 missile.
The engagement saw the MQ-28 working together with a Boeing E-7 Wedgetail and F/A-18F Super Hornet to engage an aerial target, with the drone receiving authorisation from the E-7A before successfully destroying the target.
Development of the air-to-air capability took just over eight months, starting with a decision at the Avalon Airshow in March. The operator issued only four major commands during the flight: takeoff, conduct combat air patrol, commit to intercept, and clear to arm and fire.
Following this success, Canberra approved a third tranche worth AUS $754 million for seven additional drones, six Block 2 and the first Block 3 aircraft, to support operational capability by 2028. The Block 3 variant is expected to include an internal weapons bay to maintain stealth characteristics.
Europe's loyal wingman landscape remains fragmented but increasingly active heading into 2026. Germany's Airbus and Sweden's Saab are negotiating to develop an advanced loyal wingman drone for the Eurofighter Typhoon and Gripen aircraft, separate from the troubled Franco-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program.
BAE Systems confirmed plans to fly an Autonomous Collaborative Platform demonstrator in 2026 to support the UK-Italy-Japan Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), though specific platform requirements remain under assessment.
Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries unveiled two CCA concepts at the Japan International Aerospace Exhibition 2024, including a missile-like design designated Affordable Rapid Prototype Missile Drone Concept 20X and a high-performance tactical UAV, signalling Tokyo's commitment to manned-unmanned teaming for GCAP.
The European theatre faces uncertainty as some observers now see FCAS as effectively dead, with Germany potentially pivoting to GCAP or independent loyal wingman development.
China's parallel development of multiple sixth-generation platforms and supporting loyal wingman systems has dramatically accelerated the global competition. A third J-36 prototype was observed flying on December 25, 2025, incorporating further refinements focused on endurance, thermal management, and manned-unmanned teaming integration.
Satellite imagery from June 2025 of the Yangfang base near Beijing revealed a diverse array of uncrewed aerial vehicles, including five tailless designs not previously identified, suggesting imminent unveiling of new loyal wingman capabilities.
China's two-seat J-20S stealth fighter has likely entered operational PLAAF service, with the redesigned fuselage accommodating a second crew member tasked with controlling loyal wingman drones. This represents a shift toward scalable, distributed airpower built on human-machine teaming and drone swarms.
Read More: China’s ‘Tailless’ 6th-Gen Fighter Prototypes
The US Army's aviation arm has been working with industry and component commands in the Indo-Pacific and Europe to develop requirements for a future loyal wingman drone program, with experimentation planned for early 2026.
Any Army CCAs would likely carry launched effects themselves, further extending reach into higher-risk environments and allowing for crewed-uncrewed teams capable of executing complex and flexible tactics.
Beyond the prime contractors already selected, the competitive landscape continues evolving. Northrop Grumman unveiled Project Talon in December 2025, featuring a fully composite structure that is 1,000 pounds lighter with 50 per cent fewer parts than its CCA Increment 1 offering.
Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works announced its Vectis stealth combat drone, with first flight planned for 2027, while General Atomics indicated its Longshot drone under DARPA contract could fit Increment 2 requirements.
The confluence of US production decisions, European demonstrator flights, continued Australian operational testing, and potential Chinese unveilings makes 2026 a watershed year for collaborative combat aircraft. The programs that demonstrate operational viability, affordability, and effective human-machine teaming will likely shape air combat for decades to come.
The CCA program will spend more in its first two years than the six precursor projects combined spent over the past decade, underscoring the strategic priority assigned to this capability by Western air forces seeking affordable mass to counter peer adversaries.
As one senior USAF official noted, the transition from concept to flight in record time proves the service can deliver combat capability at speed when barriers are cleared, and efforts align around warfighter needs. The question now is whether production, integration, and operational employment can maintain that momentum through 2026 and beyond.
""" },{ "title":"Qatar Airways Cargo to Re-Center Operations at Doha International Airport", "blurb":"In a major tactical pivot aimed at optimising hub efficiency, Qatar Airways Cargo has confirmed plans to reinstate freighter operations at Doha International Airport (DIA), the city’s "old" aviation gateway, beginning in the second quarter of 2026. ", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/30/2025", "cover":"R48fuNpU0WMNR0csamLz.jpeg", "views":193, "bodyHTML":"""DOHA, Qatar – In a major tactical pivot aimed at optimising hub efficiency, Qatar Airways Cargo has confirmed plans to reinstate freighter operations at Doha International Airport (DIA), the city’s "old" aviation gateway, beginning in the second quarter of 2026.
The move is designed to decongest Hamad International Airport (HIA), which has seen unprecedented growth in both passenger and belly-hold cargo traffic following the completion of its Phase B expansion in early 2025. By shifting dedicated freighter airframes to DIA, the carrier aims to create a specialised "Logistics relief valve," focusing on e-commerce, livestock, and heavy-lift operations at the legacy site while maintaining HIA as the primary hub for premium belly-hold integration.
"Our return to DIA is not a step back, but a strategic leap forward," said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways. "As we approach the delivery of our first Boeing 777-8 Freighters in 2027 and expand our joint business with IAG and MASkargo, HIA's apron capacity must be preserved for high-frequency passenger connections. DIA offers us the dedicated 'hardstand' space required for rapid freighter turnarounds without the constraints of a high-traffic passenger hub."
The transition will begin with a phased relocation of regional GCC "feeder" flights and high-volume e-commerce routes from Europe and Asia. This "dual-hub" system mirrors successful operations in cities like Tokyo (Narita/Haneda) and London (Heathrow/Stansted), allowing Qatar Airways to maintain its status as the world’s leading international cargo carrier.
The following table outlines the initial wave of freighter operations scheduled to migrate to Doha International Airport (DIA) starting April 15, 2026.
| Flight No. | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Operating Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QR8120 | DIA – Hong Kong (HKG) | 02:15 | 15:30 | 8h 15m | Daily |
| QR8441 | Liège (LGG) – DIA | 10:45 | 18:20 | 6h 35m | Tue, Thu, Sat |
| QR8055 | DIA – Dubai Al Maktoum (DWC) | 09:00 | 11:10 | 1h 10m* | Daily |
| QR8922 | Nairobi (NBO) – DIA | 22:30 | 04:15 (+1) | 5h 45m | Wed, Sun |
| QR8234 | DIA – Frankfurt (FRA) | 03:50 | 09:15 | 6h 25m | Mon, Wed, Fri |
Note: All times are local. (*)Operations at DIA will utilise the refurbished Cargo Terminal 2 (CT2) which features enhanced cold-chain capabilities for pharmaceutical and perishable goods.
The reopening of DIA for Qatar Airways Cargo comes alongside a significant technological overhaul of the airport’s airside systems. In partnership with MATAR (Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management), the airport has integrated AI-driven Performance Cockpit software to manage airfield movements, ensuring that the 10-year-old facility can handle the weight and frequency of modern 777F operations.
Furthermore, the dedicated Animal Centre at HIA will remain the primary hub for high-value live cargo, but DIA will handle "direct-to-truck" transfers for industrial and general freight, significantly reducing ground handling times for logistics partners like Qatar Post.
""" },{ "title":"Basra Airlines Secures AOC", "blurb":"In a milestone for the Iraqi aviation industry, the start-up carrier Basra Airlines (BSQ) has officially secured its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA). This certification, granted on December 30, 2025, elevates the carrier to a fully authorised operator, allowing it to transition from charter and test flights to scheduled commercial service.", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/30/2025", "cover":"114782_basraairlinescbasraairlines_468938.jpg", "views":137, "bodyHTML":"""
BASRA, Iraq – The launch of Basra Airlines marks a strategic shift in Iraq's "Development Road" initiative, aiming to establish the southern city of Basra as a major logistical and transport hub. Supported by Basra Governor Asaad Al-Eidani, the airline’s entry into the market is expected to provide much-needed competition to the national carrier, Iraqi Airways, particularly on high-demand domestic and regional corridors.
The airline begins operations with a "purpose-built" fleet of two Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft. These regional jets, named Shatt Al-Arab and Abu Al-Khaseeb, are configured for high-efficiency regional hops, seating approximately 100 passengers in a digital-first cabin. Chairman and CEO Moffak Sabir Hamad has already outlined plans for further expansion, with Boeing 737-800s and A330 freighters slated to join the fleet in early 2026.
Operating out of Basra International Airport (BSR), the carrier aims to "unite the southern marshes with northern mountains" and connect the "Grand Faw Port" project to the rest of the world. Initial operations focus on the high-traffic "Golden Triangle" of Iraq: Basra, Baghdad, and Erbil, before branching into regional hubs like Istanbul and Dubai.
"This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedicated effort," stated the airline in an official release. "We are now ready to offer a signature service that meets ICAO and Iraqi CAA standards, fostering economic and tourism corridors for all Iraqis."
As of January 2026, Basra Airlines has filed preliminary schedules for its primary domestic and regional routes. Note: Operations are scaling up; passengers are advised to verify exact times on the official BSQ booking portal.
| Flight No. | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Operating Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSQ101 | Basra (BSR) – Baghdad (BGW) | 08:30 | 09:30 | 1h 00m | Daily |
| BSQ102 | Baghdad (BGW) – Basra (BSR) | 11:00 | 12:00 | 1h 00m | Daily |
| BSQ201 | Basra (BSR) – Erbil (EBL) | 13:30 | 14:45 | 1h 15m | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat |
| BSQ405 | Basra (BSR) – Istanbul (IST) | 07:15 | 10:45 | 3h 30m | Tue, Thu, Sun |
| BSQ550 | Basra (BSR) – Dubai (DXB) | 16:00 | 18:45 | 1h 45m* | Daily |
*Flight duration to Dubai accounts for regional air traffic control routing; arrival/ departure times are in local time.
With the AOC in hand, Basra Airlines is moving quickly to establish its loyalty program and cargo division. The airline’s 2026 roadmap includes the addition of wide body aircraft to facilitate direct links to European and East Asian markets, further reducing the country's reliance on foreign regional carriers.
""" },{ "title":"JetBlue Expands Midwest Footprint with New Daily Service Between New York-JFK and Cleveland", "blurb":"JetBlue has officially announced a significant expansion of its Midwest network, confirming plans to launch daily nonstop service between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/30/2025", "cover":"dRSk5AYZFqgSpGMXZFbl.jpg", "views":176, "bodyHTML":"""JetBlue has officially announced a significant expansion of its Midwest network, confirming plans to launch daily nonstop service between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE).
Announced today, December 30, 2025, the new route is scheduled to commence on March 30, 2026. This move marks a strategic effort by the carrier to funnel travellers from Northeast Ohio into its massive international and transcontinental gateway at JFK, offering seamless connections to the Caribbean, Europe, and Florida.
While JetBlue already serves Cleveland from its Boston (BOS) focus city, the addition of JFK unlocks a wider tier of connectivity. The schedule is specifically timed to facilitate "banked" connections arriving in New York early in the morning for maximum transfer opportunities and departing late at night, allowing for full days of business or leisure.
"New York is not only a great destination and business hub, but it’s now another JetBlue gateway for Clevelanders," said Dave Jehn, JetBlue’s Vice President of Network Planning. "With our new route, Cleveland customers can choose what works best for them, unlocking even more access to JetBlue’s growing leisure network."
Scott C. Carr, Assistant Director of Commercial Business at Cleveland Hopkins, hailed the move as a major win for regional connectivity, stating it "further strengthens CLE as Northeast Ohio’s Gateway to the World."
JetBlue will operate this route using its modern Airbus A220-300 fleet. The aircraft is widely regarded as the most passenger-friendly in the single-aisle market, featuring:
2x3 Seating Configuration: Fewer middle seats.
18.6-inch Wide Seats: The widest economy seats in the fleet.
Fly-Fi: Free, high-speed gate-to-gate Wi-Fi.
In-Seat Power: USB-C, USB-A, and AC power at every seat.
The daily operation begins on March 30, 2026. The schedule favours early morning departures from Ohio and late-night returns from New York, maximising time on the ground.
| FLIGHT NO. | ROUTE | DEPARTURE TIME | ARRIVAL TIME | DURATION | OPERATING DAYS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B6 2769 | CLE to JFK | 06:00 AM | 07:40 AM | 1h 40m | Daily |
| B6 2768 | JFK to CLE | 09:45 PM | 11:55 PM | 2h 10m | Daily |
To celebrate the launch, JetBlue has released introductory fares starting at $49 one-way for travel between March 30 and May 30, 2026 (bookable by January 4).
This new entry places JetBlue in direct competition with legacy carriers like United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines, all of which serve the New York City area from Cleveland. However, JetBlue’s specific focus on the A220 product and high-speed Wi-Fi is expected to appeal to both business commuters and leisure travelers looking to bypass the older regional jets often used on short-haul Midwest routes.
""" },{ "title":"Lufthansa Technik Unveils Major ACJ318 Elite Upgrade Program", "blurb":"Lufthansa Technik (LHT) has officially announced a comprehensive cabin and technical upgrade program for the Airbus ACJ318 Elite, breathing new life into the "smallest" member of the Airbus Corporate Jet family. ", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/29/2025", "cover":"technik.png", "views":335, "bodyHTML":"""
HAMBURG, GERMANY — Lufthansa Technik (LHT) has officially announced a comprehensive cabin and technical upgrade program for the Airbus ACJ318 Elite, breathing new life into the "smallest" member of the Airbus Corporate Jet family.
Announced at the tail end of 2025, the program targets the 18 active ACJ318 Elite aircraft currently operating across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Originally designed and outfitted by Lufthansa Technik between 2007 and 2015, these aircraft, while renowned for their reliability and spaciousness, are now reaching a technological crossroads. LHT’s new initiative aims to bridge the decade-long gap in cabin technology and material wear, ensuring the platform remains competitive for another decade of service.
The upgrade program is a multi-tiered approach managed by LHT’s VIP Centre of Excellence in Hamburg. Operators can choose from a menu of "optical" renewals and "structural" technical overhauls designed to bring millennium-era interiors up to 2025 luxury standards.
The program focuses on refreshing high-touch and high-visibility areas that have weathered over a decade of use.
Veneer and Woodwork: Replacement of ageing wood veneers with contemporary finishes.
Soft Goods: Complete overhaul of carpets, leather upholstery, and fabric sidewalls.
Lighting: Modernisation of cabin mood lighting systems to enhance the passenger experience.
The most significant update is the introduction of the ACJ Connect Link. This state-of-the-art Low Earth Orbit (LEO) SatCom solution, developed in collaboration with Airbus Corporate Jets, leverages the Gogo Galileo full-duplex terminal.
"Even the highest-quality aircraft are not immune to a decade of wear and tear, and certainly not to the fast-paced development of connectivity technology," says Fabian Nagel, VP Sales for VIP & Special Aircraft Services at Lufthansa Technik. "We are honoured to revive this program to enhance the value and lifespan of these remarkable jets."
The ACJ318 remains a favourite for regional missions due to its airliner-width cabin and steep-approach capabilities (allowing it to land at airports like London City).
| Feature | Standard Specifications | Upgrade Enhancements |
|---|---|---|
| Max Range | 4,200 nm (7,800 km) | Improved avionics weight savings |
| Connectivity | Original Ka/Ku-band | ACJ Connect Link (LEO) |
| Internet Speed | Standard Mbps | High-speed broadband/streaming |
| IFE System | Standard Definition (SD) | Ultra-HD 4K Screens & 3D Audio |
| Passenger Count | 19 Seats | Modernised ergonomic seating |
| Cabin Management | Analog/Wired control | nice® Intellitable Integration |
The Original Designer: Lufthansa Technik is uniquely qualified for this program because they were the exclusive completion partner for every original A318 Elite delivered by Airbus.
Transatlantic Capability: Despite its small size, the ACJ318 Elite can fly non-stop between London and New York, making the connectivity upgrade vital for business travellers.
Stealth Technology: The new "nice" cabin management system being offered can integrate LHT's "Hidden Touch" technology, where controls disappear into the wood veneer when not in use.
LEO Revolution: By switching to LEO satellites, the ACJ318 will have lower latency than many current wide-body commercial airliners, allowing for seamless video conferencing mid-flight.
Market Value: Industry analysts suggest that a full LHT cabin and tech refresh can increase the resale value of an ACJ318 by as much as 15-20% in the current pre-owned market.
As we move into 2026, the demand for "boutique" narrow-body VIP jets is rising. By offering a certified, factory-backed upgrade path, Lufthansa Technik is effectively preventing these aircraft from entering early retirement. The program is expected to begin its first "head-of-state" conversion in the first quarter of next year.
""" },{ "title":"Two Pilots Killed in Tragic Mid-Air Collision Near Hammonton Municipal Airport", "blurb":"A quiet Sunday morning in Atlantic County turned tragic when two helicopters collided mid-air, claiming the lives of two veteran pilots who were well-known in the local aviation community. The accident occurred on December 28, 2025, just miles from Hammonton Municipal Airport (N81). ", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/29/2025", "cover":"AA1Tb9Mu.jpeg", "views":284, "bodyHTML":"""A quiet Sunday morning in Atlantic County turned tragic when two helicopters collided mid-air, claiming the lives of two veteran pilots who were well-known in the local aviation community. The accident occurred on December 28, 2025, just miles from Hammonton Municipal Airport (N81).
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local authorities, the collision involved two lightweight aircraft: an Enstrom 280C Shark and an Enstrom F-28A. The pilots have been identified as Kenneth L. Kirsch, 65, of Carneys Point, and Michael Greenberg, 71, of Sewell.
In a heartbreaking detail shared by locals, the two pilots were close friends who shared a weekly tradition. Every Sunday, they would meet for breakfast at the Apron Cafe, located right next to the Hammonton airport, before taking to the skies together.
"They were regulars here," said Sal Silipino, owner of the cafe. "They’d have their breakfast, talk shop, and then head out to fly. It’s a devastating loss for the airport family."
Witnesses reported seeing the two helicopters flying in close formation shortly after takeoff. At approximately 11:25 a.m., a "loud snap" was heard as the two aircraft made contact. Video footage captured by bystanders shows one helicopter spiralling rapidly to the ground while the other bursts into flames upon impact in a nearby farm field.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken the lead in the investigation, focusing on the "see and avoid" principle that governs flight in non-towered airspace.
| Feature | Enstrom F-28A | Enstrom 280C Shark |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Lycoming HIO-360 | Lycoming HIO-360-E1AD (Turbo) |
| Capacity | 3 Seats | 3 Seats |
| Role | Light Utility/Training | Private/Executive Transport |
| Registration | Private (NJ-based) | M&M Charter LLC |
NTSB investigators returned to the scene on Monday to document the 100-yard debris field. Initial reports suggest that the wreckage contains significant portions of the main rotors and tail sections, indicating a high-energy impact.
"Virtually all mid-air collisions are a failure of the 'see and avoid' protocol," stated Alan Diehl, a former NTSB investigator. "The investigation will look closely at the sight lines from both cockpits to determine if one aircraft was in the other's blind spot during a manoeuvre."
The "Buddy Flight" Factor: The pilots were known to fly together frequently, often maintaining close proximity in the air, which is a common practice among experienced pilots but carries inherent risks.
Rapid Response: Local fire crews from Hammonton arrived within minutes to extinguish a post-impact fire that had engulfed Greenberg’s Enstrom 280C.
Licensing: FAA records show both men earned their pilot certificates in 2014, demonstrating over a decade of flight experience each.
No Other Injuries: Despite the crash occurring near residential areas and a farm field, no individuals on the ground were injured.
Black Box Limitation: Small helicopters like the Enstrom series are typically not required to carry Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVR) or Flight Data Recorders (FDR), making witness accounts and GPS data critical to the probe.
The NTSB expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days, which will detail the flight paths and any recorded communications. A full determination of the "probable cause" typically takes 12 to 24 months. In the meantime, the Hammonton aviation community is planning a memorial for the two pilots who spent their final morning doing exactly what they loved.
""" },{ "title":"FAA Finalises AD to Resolve A350 Flight-Control Hazard", "blurb":"The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a final rule, Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2025-25-12, aimed at eliminating a critical "runaway" flight control hazard affecting the Airbus A350-900 and A350-1041 fleets. The directive, published today, December 29, 2025, mandates the installation of new flight-control software to prevent uncommanded surface movements that could lead to a loss of aircraft control.", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/29/2025", "cover":"l338PW2wL9T8SmwvKOkO.jpg", "views":480, "bodyHTML":"""
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a final rule, Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2025-25-12, aimed at eliminating a critical "runaway" flight control hazard affecting the Airbus A350-900 and A350-1041 fleets. The directive, published today, December 29, 2025, mandates the installation of new flight-control software to prevent uncommanded surface movements that could lead to a loss of aircraft control.
The ruling is the culmination of a global safety investigation into Flight Control Remote Modules (FCRMs). Regulators discovered that hydraulic fluid could leak into these modules, contaminating electronic circuit cards and potentially triggering catastrophic "runaway" signals to the rudder and elevators.
Previously, the FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) relied on interim measures that required the physical inspection and frequent replacement of FCRMs; a process that cost airlines upwards of $111,276 per aircraft.
This final AD shifts the burden to a software-based solution, which the FAA identifies as the permanent terminating action. Effective January 13, 2026, all operators must upgrade their Flight Control and Guidance System (FCGS) to the following standards:
The directive primarily affects Delta Air Lines, the sole major U.S. carrier currently operating the A350. The FAA estimates that 39 U.S. registered aircraft are impacted by the order.
While the previous hardware-focused mandates were financially draining, the software patch is significantly more economical, estimated at roughly $2,234 per aircraft in labour costs. However, the cumulative exposure for the U.S. fleet since the start of the investigation exceeds $4.4 million.
As Delta and international partners like Virgin Atlantic and Qatar Airways implement the final software patch in early 2026, the A350 remains the backbone of long-haul recovery. Below are key representative routes for the Winter 2025/Spring 2026 season featuring the A350 fleet.
| Departure Airport | Arrival Airport | Equipment | Duration | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Operating Days | Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta (ATL) | Seoul (ICN) | A350-900 | 15h 35m | 12:05 AM | 05:40 AM (+1) | Daily | Ongoing |
| Detroit (DTW) | Tokyo (HND) | A350-900 | 13h 50m | 11:45 AM | 03:35 PM (+1) | Daily | Ongoing |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | Sydney (SYD) | A350-900 | 15h 05m | 10:30 PM | 07:35 AM (+2) | Daily | Ongoing |
| Seattle (SEA) | London (LHR) | A350-900 | 9h 30m | 06:45 PM | 12:15 PM (+1) | Daily | Mar 26, 2026 |
| Atlanta (ATL) | Riyadh (RUH) | A350-900 | 13h 05m | 10:30 PM | 07:35 PM (+1) | Tue, Thu, Sat | Oct 2026 (Exp) |
In a fly-by-wire aircraft like the A350, the pilot's inputs are translated by computers into electronic signals sent to actuators. A "runaway" occurs when a control surface (like the rudder) moves to its maximum limit without a command from the pilot.
The FCRM contamination issue was particularly dangerous because:
""" },{ "title":"How Drone Swarms Rewrote the Rules of Aviation", "blurb":"For a century, aviation has been defined by the "Lone Wolf" model: one pilot, one aircraft, one mission. But as we close out 2025, that paradigm has officially collapsed. This year, the aviation industry didn't just see better drones; it witnessed the birth of collective intelligence.", "author":"Kalum Shashi Ishara", "publishDate":"12/29/2025", "cover":"Gemini_Generated_Image_iem5uiem5uiem5ui.png", "views":367, "bodyHTML":"""
ARLINGTON, VA — For a century, aviation has been defined by the "Lone Wolf" model: one pilot, one aircraft, one mission. But as we close out 2025, that paradigm has officially collapsed. From the front lines of global conflict to the vast farmlands of the Midwest, the "Sovereign Swarm" has arrived, fundamentally transforming how we use the sky.
This year, the aviation industry didn't just see better drones; it witnessed the birth of collective intelligence: fleets of hundreds of aircraft operating not as individuals, but as a single, distributed organism.
The biggest update comes from the U.S. Air Force, which in December 2025 finalised the designations for its first generation of "loyal wingmen." The service officially designated Northrop Grumman’s Project Talon as the YFQ-48A, joining the YFQ-42A (General Atomics) and YFQ-44A (Anduril) in a race to redefine air superiority.
These aren't just remote-controlled planes. Under the Replicator initiative, which reached its milestone of fielding thousands of autonomous systems this autumn, these swarms are designed to “self-heal.”
"In a swarm, the mission does not depend on a single vulnerable link," says a lead engineer at the Defence Innovation Unit (DIU). "If three drones are jammed or shot down, the remaining 97 automatically recalculate their geometry and continue the strike. You aren't just fighting a machine; you're fighting a network."
While the military focuses on "distributed lethality," the commercial sector is utilising swarms to address the labour crisis in logistics and agriculture.
| Sector | Swarm Application | Proven Benefit (2025 Data) |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | 24/7 autonomous "spray swarms" | 30% reduction in chemical waste via precision targeting |
| Logistics | Middle-mile "ferry" swarms | 45% lower cost than traditional trucking for short-haul |
| Public Safety | Wildfire suppression swarms | Can operate in smoke/night conditions too dangerous for pilots |
| Search & Rescue | "T-STAR" coordinated search | 78% faster coverage of disaster zones than single-unit UAVs |
The breakthrough that made 2025 the tipping point is the refinement of Mesh Networking and Edge AI. Unlike older models that required a constant satellite link to a human operator, modern swarms use Federated Multi-Armed Bandit Learning.
Essentially, each drone carries a "mini-brain" that shares sensor data with its neighbours in real-time. If Drone A sees a storm cloud or an enemy radar, Drone B and C know it instantly without needing to wait for instructions from a ground station.
To maintain perfect formation at high speeds without colliding, drones calculate their position using decentralised algorithms. The distance 'd' between any two drones ‘i’ and ‘j’ is constantly monitored:
By maintaining a specific d through "repulsion" and "attraction" algorithms, the swarm mimics the murmuration of starlings, allowing it to flow around obstacles like water.
As we look toward 2026, the challenge shifts from "how to fly" to "how to regulate." The FAA is currently fast-tracking Smart Traffic Control systems that allow these swarms to integrate into civilian airspace alongside Boeing 737s and private Cessnas. The sky is no longer empty; it is becoming a digital, moving grid.
""" },{ "title":"AeroXplorer Named Official Media Partner for Airliners International 2026 in Denver", "blurb":"AeroXplorer is proud to announce its appointment as the Official Media Partner for Airliners International™ 2026 Denver. This partnership marks a significant collaboration between the world's largest airline collectibles show and one of the fastest-growing digital voices in the aviation industry.", "author":"AeroXplorer.com Staff", "publishDate":"12/29/2025", "cover":"9092-aeroxplorer-named-official-media-partner-for-airliners-international-2026-in-denver.jpeg", "views":297, "bodyHTML":"""
AeroXplorer is proud to announce its appointment as the Official Media Partner for Airliners International™ 2026 Denver. This partnership marks a significant collaboration between the world's largest airline collectibles show and one of the fastest-growing digital voices in the aviation industry.
Airliners International will take place in Denver, Colorado, from June 24 to 27, 2026. The event brings together thousands of enthusiasts, historians, and aviation professionals from around the world for a multi-day celebration of commercial aviation history. The event features an airline memorabilia sale, seminars, and exclusive aviation tours.
As the Official Media Partner, AeroXplorer will provide comprehensive coverage before and during the event. This includes behind-the-scenes content, exclusive interviews with organizers and exhibitors, and photography of the unique memorabilia on display.
"I've long admired the Airliners International show, and have attended a couple in the past," said Daniel Mena, President of AeroXplorer. "To return to the Denver show as the Official Media Partner is a privilege. We're looking forward to sharing with our audience what makes this event a must-see for every aviation enthusiast."
This partnership will heavily feature Jetstream Magazine, AeroXplorer's newest aviation print publication. Jetstream offers deep-dive editorial features and digital content focusing on the past, present, and future of the aviation industry.
AeroXplorer will also sponsor a $100 cash prize for the winner of the "Best-in-Show" category at the annual aviation photography competition. The winner will also receive a four-page feature in the Fall 2026 issue of Jetstream Magazine.
"The collaboration with AeroXplorer as our Official Media Partner is an exciting step for Airliners International," said Nicholas Anderson, Chairman of the event. "Their passion for aviation media and ability to tell meaningful, in-depth aviation stories will help us showcase the event in new and compelling ways. We're looking forward to working closely with their team and building something special together for our 50th anniversary in 2026."
For more information about Airliners International Denver 2026, visit airlinersinternational.org. To follow live updates and coverage of the aviation industry, visit aeroxplorer.com.
AeroXplorer delivers the latest aviation news, airline updates, aircraft insights, and travel industry coverage from around the world. Explore expert reporting, photography, and stories for aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Airliners International is an aviation-history convention in its 50th year. Hosted annually at a different city each year, the show brings aviation-focused tours, a banquet, three days of airline collectible sales, and more!
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