Flight Safety Information - November 19, 2024 No. 230 In This Issue : Incident: Alaska B739 at San Jose on Nov 17th 2024, APU failure and smell of smoke : Incident: TAP A319 near Funchal on Nov 17th 2024, odour on board : Boeing 767-338(ER)(BDSF)(WL) - Runway Overrun/Gear Collapse (Canada) : Plane forced back to airport after pilot heard loud ‘bang’ as door opened mid-flight : British Airways Loses Communication With Aircraft Following Major IT Outage : Philippine Airlines Boeing 777-300ER Makes Emergency Landing in Vancouver : Next ACSF Aviation Safety Symposium Set for April 2025 : Airplane food is reportedly getting much worse : Electric Aircraft Market Poised for Growth with $8.01 Billion Projected Value by 2029, Transforming Aviation with Green Technologies in Europe, North America, and Asia : Textron to build 26 T-54A twin-engine aircraft and avionics to help pilots learn to fly multi-engine planes : African Airlines Target Safety, Route Development In Five-Year Strategy : FAA: Larger Aircraft, More Passengers For BasicMed Pilots : Boeing set to lay off more than 2,000 workers amid plans to cut 10% of workforce : Calendar of Events Incident: Alaska B739 at San Jose on Nov 17th 2024, APU failure and smell of smoke An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-900, registration N431AS performing flight AS-1084 from Seattle,WA to San Jose,CA (USA) with 175 passengers and 6 crew, was descending through FL180 towards San Jose, when the crew requested priority reporting they have had an APU failure and now smell of smoke in the aft cabin. The aircraft continued for a safe landing on San Jose's runway 30L about 19 minutes later. The airline reported the aircraft requested priority due to the failure of the APU, the aircraft remained fully powered however. https://avherald.com/h?article=5207bffa&opt=0 Incident: TAP A319 near Funchal on Nov 17th 2024, odour on board A TAP Air Portugal Airbus A319-100, registration CS-TTS performing flight TP-1691 from Lisbon to Funchal (Portugal), was enroute at FL370 about 190nm northnortheast of Funchal when the crew descended the aircraft to 3000 feet, descending through FL100 about 10 minutes later and levelling off at 3000 feet about 100nm northnortheast of Funchal about 14 minutes after leaving FL370. The aircraft continued to Funchal, set the transponder to emergency code in the last stages of the flight. The aircraft landed safely on runway 23 about 31 minutes after leaving FL370, emergency services as well as a number of police cars awaited the aircraft. The aircraft taxied to a remote stand. A passenger reported nauseating odour in the cabin and was interrogated by officials about the odour. Another passenger reported the captain indicated there was a technical problem on board but reassured the passengers asking them to remain calm. ANA, Portugal's Civil Aviation Authority, opened an investigation indicating an odour on board could have caused the emergency. The aircraft remained on the ground in Funchal for about 17 hours before returning to Lisbon as flight TP-9261. The aircraft is still on the ground in Lisbon about 2.5 hours after landing in Lisbon. https://avherald.com/h?article=5207aa9b&opt=0 Boeing 767-338(ER)(BDSF)(WL) - Runway Overrun/Gear Collapse (Canada) Date: Tuesday 19 November 2024 Time: Type: Boeing 767-338(ER)(BDSF)(WL) Owner/operator: Cargojet Airways (opby Amazon Air) Registration: C-GAZI MSN: 25576/549 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 0 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Unknown Location: Vancouver International Airport, BC (YVR) - Canada Phase: Landing Nature: Cargo Departure airport: Hamilton-John Munro International Airport, ON (YHM/CYHM) Destination airport: Vancouver International Airport, BC (YVR/CYVR) Narrative: A Cargojet Airways 767-338ER suffered a runway overrun and front gear collapse while landing at Vancouver International Airport. https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/461534 Plane forced back to airport after pilot heard loud ‘bang’ as door opened mid-flight The private aircraft was being operated by a lone pilot The incident occured on a Beechcraft King Air C90GTX A private plane was forced to return to a London airport after the cabin door opened mid-flight while it was climbing up to 1,700 feet. The incident occurred on 1 June after a pilot departed from London Biggin Hill Airport, a small business airport just south of the capital, flying a Beechcraft King Air C90GTX,This Is Local London reports. The privately-owned aircraft is just over 12 feet in length, with a capacity for one pilot and eight passengers, powered by two engines. The small plane had taken off and was climbing to 1,700 feet when the pilot noticed the cabin door warning light illuminated before hearing a bang, realising that the cabin door had opened. The pilot declared a ‘PAN’ emergency call, used to indicate an urgent situation but one that does not pose an immediate danger, to air traffic control and returned to the airport for safe landing. The pilot was the only person on board at the time and was uninjured. CCTV footage from the airport apron reportedly confirmed that the external door handle was in the closed position before takeoff, and the pilot’s handbook checklist also detailed that the pilot had carried out visual and mechanical checks, the local news site reported. News of the incident comes just after a small plane crashed in Slovenia during foggy weather, killing three people on board. Local police said they were informed about the accident around noon on Sunday after a Cessna Skyhawk plane was on a panoramic flight in the area of Prekmurje when it fell. The UK government’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said in its latest annual safety review that in 2022 it received 778 accident occurrence notifications, nine of which were fatal accidents in the UK resulting in 11 deaths. These included three light aircraft, two microlight aircraft, two gliders and one helicopter. The AAIB said that while system failures have contributed to incidents, other recurring themes that result in accidents include mishandling of the aircraft during landing or go-around, failures to achieve take-off performance, loss of control in flight during aerobatics, partial power loss or flight into clouds by unqualified pilots. https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/plane-door-open-mid-flight-pilot-emergency-b2648931.html British Airways Loses Communication With Aircraft Following Major IT Outage British Airways faced an IT issue on Monday evening, resulting in a loss of communication with its pilots and significant operational disruption. As flights began to get delayed both in and out of the UK, passengers started to post on social media about the uncertainties of their travel plans. Communication with pilots lost On November 18, British Airways’ operations were impacted after around 17:00 following an IT outage. The airline’s pilots across multiple locations within and outside the United Kingdom reported having trouble establishing communications with the BA operations center. British Airways maintained that its flights were continuing but that there were delays for some services as it looked to get the issue resolved. There were reports of BA planes abroad scheduled to fly into the UK waiting for hours on the ground before finally taking off. Similar scenes played out at the airline’s primary hub – London Heathrow Airport (LHR) – where several outbound flights, including long-haul services to the US and Asia, were delayed. The airline apologized to the customers for the disruptions. The issue was eventually resolved, with The Guardian quoting a Heathrow spokesperson as saying, “The technical issue impacting British Airways has now been resolved. Our teams remain on hand to support British Airways to help passengers on their way as quickly as possible.” Passengers posted online about delays A situation like this is chaotic for both the airline and the passengers booked to fly that day. As British Airways looked to resolve the issue—which it did eventually—many passengers posted comments on social media about the delays they faced. One of the passengers stuck in Vienna requested the airline to give some updates on the “pc outage,” while others pointed out how the airline’s website and apps were also not working (due to high traffic). One passenger said, “Pilot said system is now fixed, but there is a going to be big delay. He has suggested we will be sat on the plane for 1 hour before departure.” Not the first time Technical issues often disrupt airline and airport operations. This is not the first time this has happened with British Airways. In May 2023, the airline canceled dozens of flights, and several other flights were delayed. The airline said it was a “technical issue,” and reports suggested it was possibly the failure of an internal IT system. Thousands of passengers were affected, and some also missed their flight connections. Of course, BA isn’t the only airline vulnerable to IT outages. In July this year, several airlines around the world had to ground their planes after a glitch with their systems affected operations. More than 6,000 flights were canceled on a single day, with airlines incurring losses. Airlines and airports across various regions, including the US, India, Japan, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand, among others, faced problems with their systems, and carriers faced long queues at check-in counters as they had trouble checking in passengers. https://simpleflying.com/british-airways-major-it-outage/ Philippine Airlines Boeing 777-300ER Makes Emergency Landing in Vancouver The disruption continued to affect Philippine Airlines' operations into Monday, with Flight PR117 facing additional delays. VANCOUVER- A Philippine Airlines (PR) Boeing 777-300 executed an emergency landing at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) after encountering technical difficulties during its Manila-bound flight on Sunday morning (November 17). The aircraft, carrying a full capacity of 370 passengers, experienced a maintenance issue shortly after its delayed takeoff, forcing pilots to reverse course over northern Vancouver Island. A Philippine Airlines (PR) Boeing 777-300 executed an emergency landing at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) after encountering technical difficulties during its Manila-bound flight on Sunday morning. Philippine Airlines Emergency Landing Emergency response teams, including fire crews and medical personnel, mobilized at YVR to meet the aircraft, which landed without incident. Philippine Airlines has initiated a comprehensive rebooking process for affected passengers and committed to covering hotel accommodations during the delay. The airline’s maintenance team has withdrawn the aircraft from service to conduct thorough inspections and necessary repairs. The Transportation Safety Board has declined to investigate the incident, indicating the technical issue falls within routine maintenance parameters, according to Vancouver-based Global News. A Philippine Airlines (PR) Boeing 777-300 executed an emergency landing at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) after encountering technical difficulties during its Manila-bound flight on Sunday morning (November 17). The disruption continued to affect Philippine Airlines’ operations into Monday, with Flight PR117 facing additional delays. Originally scheduled for departure at 10:45 PM on November 18, the flight eventually departed at 12:10 AM on November 19, marking nearly 24 hours of travel disruption for affected passengers. The aircraft involved in the incident was a Boeing 777-300ER, registered as EP-C7782. Further, it is a 7-year-old aircraft powered by GE90 engines. Virgin Atlantic (VS) Flight VS129 executed an emergency return to London Heathrow Airport after encountering technical difficulties during its scheduled service to Tampa International Airport. Similar Incidents Virgin Atlantic (VS) Flight VS129 executed an emergency return to London Heathrow Airport after encountering technical difficulties during its scheduled service to Tampa International Airport. The Airbus A330-300, registration G-VGEM, departed London at 2:24 PM UTC, running one hour behind schedule. The aircraft operated without incident for approximately 30 minutes until declaring an emergency while approaching Atlantic Ocean airspace. Flight tracking data from Flight Radar 24 revealed the aircraft rapidly descended to 10,000 feet before initiating its return to London. Aviation experts attribute the emergency descent to potential pressurization complications in the 13.6-year-old aircraft, which operates with Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines. The aircraft touched down safely at Heathrow at 3:46 PM UTC, completing a flight duration of one hour and 20 minutes. While the plane maintained engine power upon landing, ground crews towed it to Terminal 3 under firefighter escort. Virgin Atlantic confirmed the incident to Aviation A2Z, stating: Our flight, the VS129 from London Heathrow to Tampa has returned to Heathrow on a priority landing due to a technical issue. The safety and security of our customers and crew is always our priority and the aircraft landed normally. We would like to apologize to customers for the delay and any inconvenience caused, and we’re working hard to ensure that they can continue their journey as soon as possible.” Virgin Atlantic maintains daily service between London and Tampa, commonly known as the Big Guava City. https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2024/11/19/philippine-airlines-777-emergency-landing-in-vancouver/ Next ACSF Aviation Safety Symposium Set for April 2025 Experts to review and discuss current and emerging safety challenges The Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) will hold its 2025 Safety Symposium from April 7 to 9 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Daytona Beach, Florida campus. It will bring together business aviation safety leaders and experts to review and discuss current and emerging challenges. “Our goal for this year will be making the symposium keenly focused on common safety risks and how to mitigate those risks,” said ACSF president and CEO Bryan Burns. “We want everyone who attends to be able to walk away with something they can take back to their flight departments that will have a measurable impact on safety.” Attendees will be able to network with both current and future industry leaders, including Embry-Riddle students who represent the next generation of aviation professionals. “The Safety Symposium provides a unique opportunity for attendees to engage, exchange ideas, and collaborate on innovative solutions to enhance aviation safety,” noted Burns. “This symposium is truly a top-tier aviation safety industry event,” he added. “Even if you only had the opportunity to attend a single session, it would be worth the trip.” https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2024-11-18/next-acsf-aviation-safety-symposium-set-april-2025 Flight crew member busted with gun at Reagan National Airport The 9mm handgun was found loaded with nine bullets. ARLINGTON, Va. — A member of an airline flight crew was stopped by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Friday after attempting to bring a loaded gun through a security checkpoint. The 9mm handgun, loaded with nine bullets — including one in the chamber — was discovered in the person’s carry-on bag during routine screening. TSA officers alerted the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) Police, who confiscated the gun and issued a citation to the flight crew member. The individual also faces a federal civil penalty, which can amount to a maximum of $15,000 for carrying a loaded weapon into a checkpoint. “This was a good catch on the part of our TSA officers as it addressed a possible insider threat situation,” said John Busch, TSA’s Federal Security Director at Reagan National Airport. He emphasized that individuals working on the secure side of the airport—whether airline crew members, retail employees, or contractors—are held to the same security standards as travelers. Guns are strictly prohibited from being taken through TSA checkpoints unless specific protocols are followed. To travel with a firearm, passengers must: Unload the weapon completely. Pack the firearm in a locked, hard-sided case for checked baggage only. Declare the firearm at the airline ticket counter during check-in. Passengers who fail to comply with these rules may face significant penalties and lose TSA PreCheck privileges, regardless of whether they have a concealed carry permit. The TSA has reported an upward trend in firearm interceptions at Reagan National Airport checkpoints over recent years. Here's a look at the numbers: 2018: 16 2019: 14 2020: 10 2021: 30 2022: 29 2023: 39 2024 (as of November 17): 36 https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/flight-crew-member-tries-to-take-gun-through-security-at-reagan-national-airport-arlington/65-fd4a970c-dd84-45db-866f-dc8fc13159a8 American Airlines Airbus A321neo Flies Near Honolulu's Mountainous Terrain After Crew Error The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating after an Airbus A321neo operated by American Airlines performed an unusual takeoff path near Honolulu on Wednesday. Rather than making an immediate right turn upon departure, the crew missed instructions and flew the aircraft straight out east. Honolulu’s north and east perimeters sit below mountainous terrain with elevations over 3,000 feet. Air Traffic Control (ATC) subsequently intervened and instructed the crew to expedite their climb to avoid the mountain range. Details of the incident The flight involved was AA298, which originated at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and was bound for Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Data from Flightradar24 shows that the aircraft, registered as N418AN, pushed back from gate C4 at 00:35 on Wednesday, which was 50 minutes past its scheduled departure time of 23:45 on Tuesday. It is unclear why the flight was delayed. After taxiing for 14 minutes, the aircraft took off at 00:49 from Runway 8L. The runway is not as commonly utilized for eastbound departures compared to Runway 8R, which is known as Honolulu's Reef Runway. Two minutes after takeoff, flight data indicates the plane was at 2,900 feet and traveling north of downtown Honolulu at a speed of 238 knots. It continued east, passing just to the south of Kōnāhuanui mountain peak, which has an elevation of 3,150 feet. At 00:52, just three minutes after takeoff, the aircraft had reached an altitude of 5,300 feet and was climbing rapidly. It subsequently made a right turn and flew southwest of Puʻu OʻKona, which stands at roughly 2,350 feet. “Did not make the assigned turn” The FAA confirmed the incident with Simple Flying on Thursday. In a statement, the agency said the aircraft “remained safely above nearby terrain,” but cited the flight crew for failing to follow ATC instructions. “An air traffic controller instructed American Airlines Flight 298 to perform an expedited climb after the crew did not make the assigned turn while departing from Honolulu International Airport. The controller’s actions ensured the aircraft remained safely above nearby terrain. The Airbus A321neo was flying to Los Angeles International Airport. The FAA is investigating the event, which occurred around 1 a.m. local time on Wednesday, Nov. 13.” According to Hawaii’s Department of Transportation, the standard departure procedure from Runway 8L instructs pilots to maintain their runway heading to Hawaii 92, also known as Nimitz Highway. The heading instruction prompts the aircraft to immediately bank right upon takeoff, fly parallel to the highway, and climb out over the center of Honolulu Harbor. Once the aircraft is “one mile due south of Diamond Head,” pilots are then prompted to “turn left and resume own navigation.” It could have been worse Despite ATC instructing the pilots to expedite their climb to keep the aircraft away from the terrain, its proximity to the mountain range is being speculated as dangerous nonetheless. One Airliners.net forum user, believed to be a Hawaiian Airlines A321neo pilot, commented that if AA298 “had lost an engine there isn’t a chance” the flight “would have cleared those mountains.” The self-claimed pilot also acknowledged the unusual flight path, but noted the aircraft’s ground proximity warning system (GPWS) would have notified the crew if they came too close to the terrain. “I have never and mean never not got a PDC (Pre-Departure Clearance) not saying right turn 155, climb 5000 when departing HNL,” they explained. “ATC does not vector you till after that initial turn, it's in your departure clearance. Yes, the GPWS would advise you but they shouldn't be there in the first place.” Simple Flying contacted American on Thursday to learn more details about the incident, but the carrier did not respond. AA298 continued to Los Angeles without incident and landed safely just after 07:30. https://simpleflying.com/american-airlines-airbus-a321neo-mountainous-terrain-crew-error/ Alaska Airlines flight from Dulles makes emergency landing at LAX los angeles An Alaska Airlines flight made an emergency landing at LAX after blowing out a tire during its takeoff at Dulles International Airport near Washington D.C. The aircraft landed at LAX at about 8:10 p.m. without incident. First responders were standing by on the runway as a precaution. Out of the 175 passengers and six crew members aboard Flight 309, no one was injured. "While this incident is a rare occurrence, our flight crews train extensively to safely manage through many scenarios," the airliner stated. Alaska stated that the pilot declared the emergency landing as a precaution to ensure the flight had extra support if needed. The company said it would investigate what caused the Boeing 737-900 to malfunction. The aircraft will not be in service during the investigation. https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/alaska-airlines-flight-from-dulles-makes-emergency-landing-at-lax/ Alaska Airlines flight from Seattle to San Jose makes priority landing after auxiliary power unit fails SAN JOSE – An Alaska Airlines flight into San Jose landed safely after calling for a priority landing Sunday evening, the airline said. Crews on Alaska Airlines Flight 1084 from Seattle to San Jose asked for a priority landing after finding the auxiliary power unit, which serves as a redundant source of electric power, failed during their descent, according to the airliner. The flight, a Boeing 737-900ER, remained fully powered and crews landed safely around 5 p.m. at Mineta San Jose International Airport. There were 175 people and six crew members onboard at the time and took off from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Earlier this week, a Southwest flight from Oakland to Reno made an emergency landing in Sacramento due to an illuminated flap warning light during the flight's initial descent. On Tuesday, another Southwest flight from San Jose returned to the airport after developing engine trouble minutes into the flight. https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/alaska-airlines-seattle-san-jose-priority-landing/ European Union Aviation Safety Agency Showcases Human Expertise Empowering Aviation Safety Through Technology The European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s Annual Safety Conference emphasized blending human expertise with advanced technology to enhance aviation safety standards. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) hosted its Annual Safety Conference for 2024 under the theme “Safety, Technology, and the Human Dimension,” emphasizing the pivotal role of well-trained personnel in ensuring aviation safety. The event also underscored the prudent application of technology to further enhance operational safety standards. A key highlight of the conference was EASA’s detailed explanation of its stance on “extended Minimum Crew Operations” (eMCO), a concept that envisions a single pilot in the cockpit during specific flight phases. Manufacturers presented advancements in “smart cockpit” technologies designed to reduce crew workload, improve decision-making, enhance data management, and detect pilot fatigue or incapacitation. The panel addressing eMCO emphasized the need to test and evaluate these technologies while maintaining the current two-pilot standard to ensure safety remains uncompromised. The role of technology in boosting aviation safety was further discussed in a dedicated panel session. Experts agreed on the necessity of introducing cockpit enhancements gradually, ensuring that safety improvements are validated before considering operational changes. The overarching principle remains that any technological innovation in aviation must unequivocally enhance safety. Two panels explored longer-term strategies to mitigate safety risks. One panel focused on the challenges posed by interference with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) in conflict zones, where jamming and spoofing can compromise navigation. While pilot vigilance currently mitigates these risks, the panel advocated for resilient, system-level technological solutions to strengthen decision-making processes. The second panel examined human factors in runway safety, referencing a tragic runway collision at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on January 2, 2024, which claimed five lives. Discussions revolved around whether human involvement is a vulnerability or strength in preventing such incidents. Panelists concluded that leveraging technology to support human decision-making could significantly reduce runway incursions and similar accidents. The remaining panels focused on the human element in aviation safety and its intersection with societal expectations. Environmental concerns emerged as a major driver for technological innovation, with efforts to reduce emissions and noise pollution aligned with European Union climate goals. While aviation contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the urgency to limit its impact remains critical. Another focal point was the necessity of a well-trained workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. Panelists stressed the importance of attracting new talent to aviation, particularly individuals equipped with the advanced skill sets required to operate and manage emerging technologies. The conference brought together a diverse array of speakers, including representatives from national aviation authorities, industry leaders, pilot associations, EU organizations, and other experts. Held in Budapest, Hungary, from October 30 to 31, 2024, under the Hungarian EU Presidency, the event attracted approximately 220 participants, fostering collaboration and dialogue on critical issues shaping the future of aviation safety. With a clear emphasis on integrating human expertise with cutting-edge technology, the EASA Annual Safety Conference reaffirmed its commitment to making aviation safer, more sustainable, and resilient for generations to come. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/european-union-aviation-safety-agency-showcases-human-expertise-empowering-aviation-safety-through-technology/ Airplane food is reportedly getting much worse • Cockroaches and E. coli are among the recent problems encountered in the skies • 'In-flight meals can sit for hours before being consumed.' "What's the deal with airplane food?" has been the punchline of jokes for years, but recent events indicate that there may be more issues with food in the skies than just the taste. A series of reports throughout 2024 have highlighted a growing problem within the aviation industry: food safety aboard airplanes. There have been alleged incidents that include rodents, insects and a slew of food poisoning. While federal agencies work to monitor airplane food, experts say that not everything is as it seems. What incidents have occurred with airplane food? In the past year, Delta passengers on a flight from Detroit to Amsterdam were "served spoiled meals from a Do & Co kitchen," and the "allegedly moldy chicken sickened more than a dozen fliers," said The Washington Post. Months later, an Air India passenger posted a video on X that appeared to show a dead cockroach in her omelet; The airline confirmed to Fox Business that the incident occurred but had no further comment. That same month, a "mouse scampered out of a meal on a Scandinavian Airlines flight from Norway to Spain and scurried off," said the Post. Other incidents include alleged cases of E. coli on Delta and "reports of unsanitary practices by a caterer that provides meals for British Airways." Why is this happening? Following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, regulations "changed what types of cooking knives crews can work with in the air," so airlines "have long looked for ways to cut food production costs and reduce meal preparation times for flight attendants on board," said CNN. This is a far cry from the days of old, when meals were "prepared in four simultaneously operating galleys, where dishes can be cooked in five-minute ovens," stated a 1958 Pan Am commercial. The bigger issue, though, is that the "confined nature of airplane travel makes foodborne illness outbreaks especially challenging to manage," Darin Detwiler, a food safety adviser at Northeastern University, said to the Post. The FDA requires inspections at least every three years for airline catering facilities, and the agency "has written up two of the industry's largest catering companies, LSG Sky Chefs and Gate Gourmet," the Post reported. This reportedly included problems with temperature control, pests and cross-contamination, all of which can contribute to illnesses. And "unlike restaurant food, which is hastily delivered to tables, in-flight meals can sit for hours before being consumed," said the Post. If airline meals are kept improperly, then "people can become infected with pathogens when food is not cooked, cooled, reheated and/or stored at the correct temperature, Carlota Medus, an epidemiologist at the Minnesota Department of Public Health, said to the Post. What should you do on your next flight? There are certain precautions that can be taken when choosing airplane food. This includes "avoiding raw seafood and undercooked food on planes, as well as anything that needs to be kept cold," doctor Jen Dunphy said to Yahoo!. However, Dunphy also reiterated that food on airplanes, despite these recent events, is "generally safe and is regulated" by the FDA. But inspections do not occur that regularly. Items like pasta "may be a better choice than dishes that contain meat," food safety adviser Darin Detwiler said to Food & Wine. But the only surefire way to avoid sickness from airplane food is not to eat it. For people "who are concerned about food safety while traveling, they could consider bringing shelf-stable snacks for the plane like granola bars, trail mix and nuts," food safety expert Ellen Shumaker said to Food & Wine. https://theweek.com/culture-life/travel/airplane-food-getting-worse Electric Aircraft Market Poised for Growth with $8.01 Billion Projected Value by 2029, Transforming Aviation with Green Technologies in Europe, North America, and Asia The More Electric Aircraft (MEA) market is set for significant growth, projected to rise from USD 5.56 billion in 2024 to USD 8.01 billion by 2029, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% during the forecast period. This new report by MarketsandMarkets™ explores the continued integration of electric systems in aircraft, which is transforming aviation by improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and increasing the overall reliability and safety of aircraft. The demand for More Electric Aircraft is growing as the aviation industry seeks innovative solutions to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance operational efficiency. From electric-powered flight control systems to electric-driven landing gear, MEA technology is increasingly being applied across various aircraft functions, making aviation more sustainable and cost-effective. Electric systems not only optimize energy use for environmental control systems but also provide a safer, more reliable solution for flight control and landing gear. Key Growth Drivers in the MEA Market The most prominent feature of More Electric Aircraft is its potential to reduce aircraft fuel usage and emissions, especially during ground operations. Electric Taxiing Systems (ETS), for example, enable aircraft to taxi without using engines, cutting both fuel consumption and emissions at the airport. Additionally, high-voltage power distribution systems ensure efficient power delivery to various subsystems, enhancing overall operational reliability. The continued advancements in battery technology, particularly with solid-state and lithium-sulfur batteries, are expected to further enhance the capabilities of electric-powered systems in aircraft. While electric propulsion remains in its developmental stages, it holds significant promise for reducing emissions in short- to medium-haul flights, potentially revolutionizing regional air travel with minimal environmental impact. Market Segmentation and Insights The MEA market is segmented by platform, system, component, application, end-use, and region. Among the platforms, fixed-wing aircraft are expected to hold the largest share of the market, as these aircraft are used extensively in commercial, regional, and cargo aviation sectors. Fixed-wing aircraft are particularly suitable for MEA technologies due to their range and efficiency in long-distance travel, making them ideal candidates for innovations that enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The military sector is forecasted to grow at the fastest rate within the MEA market, with electric systems offering crucial benefits in terms of reliability and maintenance. For instance, the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet uses electric flight control surfaces, which replace hydraulic systems, providing the aircraft with lighter weight, better responsiveness, and more efficient operation in extreme conditions. Regional Growth and Opportunities The European market is expected to contribute the largest share to the MEA market’s growth, from 2024 to 2029. European airlines are increasingly focused on upgrading fleets to meet rising passenger demand and comply with EU emissions regulations. As part of their efforts to meet net-zero emissions goals by 2050, European companies, like Airbus, are prioritizing the development of aircraft with MEA technologies. These innovations, such as electric actuation systems, power-by-wire technology, and electric environmental control, offer airlines more fuel-efficient solutions, reducing maintenance costs and improving performance. The demand for environmentally-friendly and fuel-efficient aircraft is driving the integration of MEA technologies, making the region a key player in the development of the market. Additionally, electric systems have helped improve the performance of commercial aircraft, further encouraging their adoption in the airline industry. Key Players in the MEA Market Leading companies in the More Electric Aircraft market include S.A. (France), Honeywell International Inc. (US), RTX (US), General Electric (US), Parker Hannifin Corporation (US), Bae Systems plc (UK), Bombardier Inc. (Canada), Embraer S.A (Brazil), Liebherr (Switzerland), and Rolls-Royce Plc (UK). These companies are playing a vital role in developing the necessary power electronics, flight control systems, and battery technology that will enable the widespread adoption of more electric aircraft across the aviation industry. As the market evolves, these companies are expected to lead the way in advancing electric systems and components, further driving the growth of the industry. Their continued efforts to develop more efficient and sustainable aircraft will play a crucial role in reducing the aviation sector’s overall environmental impact. Market Challenges and Opportunities One of the key challenges facing the MEA market is the significant increase in maximum take-off weight that electric systems can impose on aircraft. The increased weight from high-capacity batteries and electric systems can affect the performance and efficiency of the aircraft. However, this challenge is being addressed through ongoing innovations in battery technology and power electronics, which are expected to provide lighter, more efficient solutions in the future. Moreover, the development of advanced power electronic components presents a key opportunity for market growth. These components will help reduce the size, weight, and cost of electric systems, enabling more efficient energy conversion and improving overall aircraft performance. The Future of the MEA Market The More Electric Aircraft market is set for significant growth in the coming years, driven by innovations in electric systems, battery technology, and sustainable aviation practices. As the aviation industry continues to prioritize fuel efficiency, emissions reductions, and environmental sustainability, MEA technologies are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of aviation. With airlines and aircraft manufacturers increasingly embracing these technologies, the MEA market is poised to revolutionize air travel, offering more sustainable and efficient aircraft for a rapidly growing global market. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/electric-aircraft-market-poised-for-growth-with-8-01-billion-projected-value-by-2029-transforming-aviation-with-green-technologies-in-europe-north-america-and-asia/ Textron to build 26 T-54A twin-engine aircraft and avionics to help pilots learn to fly multi-engine planes T-54A has a pressurized cockpit, side-by-side seating, and will provide instrument and asymmetric engine handling training to student naval aviators. PATUXENT RIVER NAS, Md. – U.S. Navy flight training experts are boosting the Navy's inventory of multi-engine training aircraft with $276.8 million order last week to Textron Aviation Inc. in Wichita, Kan., for 26 T-54A twin-engine turboprop aircraft. Officials of the Naval Air Systems Command at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md., are asking Textron Aviation to build the 26 T-54A aircraft, and provide spare parts, and support to help train U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard pilots in multi-engine aircraft. The T-54A is based on the Beechcraft King Air 260 nine-seat commercial aviation twin-engine turboprop. The venerable King Air was developed by Beechcraft in the 1960s before the company was acquired by Textron in 2014. Textron also manufactures Cessna aircraft. Based on Beechcraft King Air 260 The Navy received the first two operational T-54A twin-engine aircraft last spring at Corpus Christi Naval Air Station, Texas, which is home to Training Air Wing Four of the Navy's Chief of Naval Air Training. The T-54A is replacing the aging T-44C Pegasus aircraft. Related: Air Force asks Field Aerospace to upgrade avionics in 178 T-1A trainer aircraft in $21.3 million order The T-54A, which has a pressurized cockpit with side-by-side seating and a jump seat, will provide advanced instrument and asymmetric engine handling training to student naval aviators who are learning to fly multi-engine aircraft. The plane can capture data for conditioned-based maintenance plus that tracks aircraft health over time for improved maintenance planning. The T-54 has the latest avionics and navigational updates, including a state-of-the-art cockpit with technology advances in the flight management system. The Navy may buy as many as 64 T-54 aircraft, for which deliveries are scheduled through 2026. The unarmed T-54A is the aircraft portion of the Navy's multi-engine training system (METS). Updated avionics The aircraft will include an updated avionics suite and advanced automation capabilities to enhance naval aviator competencies and better prepare students for the aircraft they will fly in the fleet. The T-54A will provide advanced instrument and asymmetric engine handling training to student naval aviators selected for multi-engine fleet communities within the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, as well as select U.S. allies. Using a skills-based approach to training with just-in-time methodology that incorporates modern technology, this new aircraft opens a door for enhanced training opportunities so Fleet Replacement Squadrons can spend less time on foundational skills and focus more on mission requirements for today’s pilots. T-54A technology will also capture data that allows for Conditioned-Based Maintenance Plus, a capability that enables the Navy to trend aircraft health over time to facilitate improved maintenance planning and efficiency. The T-54A is expected to be in service for about 30 years. The plane has two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-52 engines; is 43 feet, 10 inches long; 14 feet, 10 inches high; has a 57-foot, 11-inch wingspan; has a maximum takeoff weight of 12,500 pounds; can fly as fast as 259 knots; can fly as high as 35,000 feet; and has a range of 1,640 nautical miles. On this order Textron Aviation will do the work in Wichita, Kan.; and Corpus Christi, Texas, and should be finished by September 2026. For more information contact Textron Aviation online at https://txtav.com. https://www.militaryaerospace.com/communications/article/55243736/navy-orders-26-twin-engine-aircraft-and-avionics-for-flight-training Africa Aims For Free Route Airspace In 2025 African aviation stakeholders are working to introduce free route airspace on the continent by the end of 2025, cutting operating costs, flight times and emissions. Free route airspace (FRA) is a specified airspace where users can freely plan a route between a defined entry point and a defined exit point, subject to airspace availability. This contrasts with air traffic service (ATS) routes, where air traffic is channeled into a managed flow. African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Secretary General Abderahmane Berthe said the FRA project, which has been underway since November 2023, is very important for African operators. “It will allow airlines to operate user-preferred routes (UPR) instead of ATS routes. And it will reduce flight times, CO2 emissions and save on aircraft maintenance costs,” Berthe told Aviation Week’s Window Seat podcast. At the AFRAA annual general assembly in Cairo, Berthe said six airlines have been trialing UPR on seven city pairs. The participating airlines are South African regional carrier Airlink, EgyptAir, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Royal Air Maroc and RwandAir. Berthe said Ethiopian Airlines and Royal Air Maroc each saved more than 10 min. flying time on their trial sectors. On an annual basis, just for the six participants, he said FRA could deliver potential savings of 2,130 tons of fuel and 6,732 tons of CO2, cutting costs by $2.65 million. “By the end of 2025, we want to have a full continent on FRA routes,” he said. “In 2025, the publication of [FRA] on the continent will start with western and central [African] regional airspace. The expected impact on operating costs for airlines is massive.” When quizzed on whether this ambitious timeline is likely to hold, Berthe replied: “In Africa, we don’t have so much traffic, so I think it will be easy to implement. Currently, we have six AFRAA members participating in the trials, and we’ll also bring some non-African airlines on the trial. We are very confident that we can do it by end of 2025.” AFRAA, which represents 45 member airlines from across the African continent, is working on the project in conjunction with ICAO, IATA, air navigation service providers and the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIMBANK). https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/safety-ops-regulation/africa-aims-free-route-airspace-2025 FAA: Larger Aircraft, More Passengers For BasicMed Pilots The FAA has updated its BasicMed program, further expanding the operational limits on pilots, allowing them to operate larger aircraft and fly more passengers. The revisions were part of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, signed by President Joe Biden in May 2024, to expand BasicMed pilots’ capabilities, clarify terms and to increase accessibility to the BasicMed program. According to the FAA, the regulation increased the maximum allowable passengers from five to six, increased the maximum aircraft takeoff weight (MTOW) from 6,000 lbs. to 12,500 lbs. and allows pilot examiners to conduct flight checks using BasicMed in eligible aircraft. The expanded regulations excludes Part 29 transport category helicopters. BasicMed was originally enacted in 2017, which allows eligible pilots to fly without holding an FAA medical certificate under certain circumstances. According to the Aircraft Operators and Pilots Association, the AOPA spent multiple years to implement the program, which has since gained recognition in Mexico, the Bahamas and other U.S. territories. “BasicMed has been a success, and its improvement and expansion was a high priority of mine when writing the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024,” says Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.), chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “As a professional pilot, I know our aviation sector would not be where it is today without a strong general aviation community.” According to AOPA President Mark Baker, the expansion “reflects the positive safety review by the FAA and the program’s use by thousands of pilots. Chairman Sam Graves skillfully moved the FAA bill through Congress by working across the aisle and put forward a great bill for general aviation.” According to the FAA, in order for a pilot to be eligible for BasicMed, they must complete a medical examination from a State-licensed physician within the 48 months before flying. However, the FAA found that the meaning of “month” was inconsistent with its use in the FAA Extension, Safety and Security Act of 2016 (FESSA)—updating its language to include “calendar month.” In contrast to the expansions, BasicMed still prohibits pilots from flying for compensation, flying at or below 18,000 ft. altitude and flying at speeds over 250 knots. According to the AOPA, the case for keeping these restrictions will wane in the near future. “As more pilots participate in BasicMed and hours and years accumulate, the case for keeping the remaining limitations will crumble, or at least be far less persuasive,” the organization said in a statement. As the population of BasicMed pilots may grow, only pilots who have held a valid medical certificate at any point after July 14, 2006, completed a medical exam by a state-licensed physician, completed an online medical education course and hold a valid U.S. driver’s license are eligible for the program. https://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/safety-ops-regulation/faa-larger-aircraft-more-passengers-basicmed-pilots Boeing set to lay off more than 2,000 workers amid plans to cut 10% of workforce Boeing is slated to lay off more than 2,000 workers in Washington and Oregon following an announcement from the company saying it plans to cut 17,000 jobs, or about 10% of its global workforce. The planned layoffs became known following a filing from the aerospace giant to the Washington State Employment Security Department. The department's worker adjustment and retaining notification layoff and disclosure database says the date for layoffs will be Dec. 20. According to the database, 2,199 workers in Washington will be impacted. According to reporting from Reuters, about 438 members of the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) received layoff notices last week. Among these, 218 of them were engineers and 220 were technicians, Reuters said. These layoffs come after a tough year for the company, which has been plagued with plane safety concerns and strikes in some of its plants. Boeing plans to lay off 17,000 jobs In October, Boeing’s CEO Kelly Ortberg said the company planned to cut Boeing’s total workforce by 10%. “Over the coming months, we are planning to reduce the size of our total workforce by roughly 10 percent. These reductions will include executives, managers and employees,” Ortberg said. “The state of our business and our future recovery require tough actions.” A time of strikes and safety issues Strikes and safety concerns have recently plagued the company. In October, workers in the Seattle area walked off the job for the first time since 2008. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), whose members walked off the job had reached a deal with the company, ending the strike Nov. 4, but could now face layoffs. In September, the National Transportation Safety Board issued an urgent warning regarding Boeing 737 planes, saying a piece of the rudder control system on these planes could lose functionality in cold weather. https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/boeing-set-lay-off-more-201036824.html CALENDAR OF EVENTS • Elevate Your Organization's Safety Practices with ERAU’s SMS Course in Daytona Beach Nov. 19-21 • The Gulf Flight Safety Association (GFSA) - 26/27 of November 2024; Manama, Bahrain • Sponsor the 2025 Fuzion Safety Conference! March 4 & 5, 2025 (Orlando) • Annual Women in Aviation International Conference, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Conference Center | Denver Colorado, March 27-29, 2025 • 59th Annual SMU Air Law Symposium is scheduled March 31 - April 2, 2025 • Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) Safety Symposium April 7-9, 2025 • AIA Conference: The Aviation Insurance Association's annual conference in Orlando, Florida from April 25–28, 2025 • Sixth Edition of International Accident Investigation Forum, 21 to 23 May 2025, Singapore • The 9th Shanghai International Aerospace Technology and Equipment Exposition 2025; June 11 to 13, 2025 Curt Lewis