Flight Safety Information - March 5, 2025 No. 046 In This Issue : British Aerospace 3201 Jetstream 32EP - Runway Overrun on Landing (Peru) : Bombardier Challenger 300 - Runway Excursion (Texas) : FAA Investigates False Collision Warnings at Reagan National Airport as Pilots Execute Go-Arounds Amid Rising Aviation Safety Concerns and Air Traffic Control Scrutiny : Solar panels blind pilots approaching Amsterdam Schiphol; runway closed for two hours when sunny : US aviation safety ‘no longer the gold standard,’ according to statements at House hearing : Couple accused of throwing coffee at airplane staff : Russia Smuggling US Plane Parts As Sanctions Ground Airliners, Jeopardizing Civil Aviation : Southwest Airlines closing 2 crew bases in cost-cutting push : Qatar Airways to order large wide-body aircraft soon : Cracks Found on KC-46 Tanker Aircraft Prompt US Air Force to Suspend Deliveries Anew : FAA union president says DOGE fired essential employees without assessment : Global Pilot Training Group Simaero Upgrades Airbus A330 Full Flight Simulator in 2025 : Lawmakers Offer Bill To Open 529s to Pilot/Mx Training : Airbus Helicopters Trains Over 7,000 Pilots and Technicians in 2024 : Kazakhstan Employs More Than 9,000 Women in Aviation with 34 Female Pilots British Aerospace 3201 Jetstream 32EP - Runway Overrun on Landing (Peru) Date: Tuesday 4 March 2025 Time: 09:54 Type: British Aerospace 3201 Jetstream 32EP Owner/operator: SAETA Perú Registration: OB-2178 MSN: 861 Year of manufacture: 1989 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 13 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Substantial Category: Accident Location: Güeppi Airport (SPGP), Güeppi, Loreto - Peru Phase: Landing Nature: Passenger Departure airport: Iquitos-Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT/SPQT) Destination airport: Güeppi Airport (SPGP) Confidence Rating: Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources Narrative: A SAETA Perú British Aerospace 3201 Jetstream 32EP overran runway 05 after landing at Güeppi Airport (SPGP), Güeppi, Loreto. The two pilots and eleven passengers were not injured and the aircraft received substantial damage after it ran into trees. https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/482533 Bombardier Challenger 300 - Runway Excursion (Texas) Date: Tuesday 4 March 2025 Time: 19:01 UTC Type: Bombardier Challenger 300 Owner/operator: Elite Air Registration: N283B MSN: 20252 Year of manufacture: 2008 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Unknown Location: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, TX (AUS/KAUS) - United States of America Phase: Take off Nature: Passenger - Non-Scheduled/charter/Air Taxi Departure airport: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, TX (AUS/KAUS) Destination airport: St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport, FL (PIE/KPIE) Confidence Rating: Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources Narrative: A Bombardier Challenger 300, N283B, operating as Elite Air flight 300 on a flight from Austin Bergstrom International Airport to St Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport, suffered a runway temporary excursion during takeoff from runway 36R. ADS-B data suggest that the aircraft began veering to the left at a ground speed of about 97 knots. The takeoff was aborted as the aircraft the veered to the right of the runway centreline before regaining directional control. The aircraft vacated the runway and taxied back to the apron. https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/482582 FAA Investigates False Collision Warnings at Reagan National Airport as Pilots Execute Go-Arounds Amid Rising Aviation Safety Concerns and Air Traffic Control Scrutiny The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into multiple false collision alerts that disrupted flights approaching Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on Saturday, prompting go-arounds and raising fresh concerns over aviation safety. The alerts, received by flight crews as they prepared to land, warned of nearby aircraft that were not actually present, according to an FAA statement. The agency confirmed that “some of the crews executed go-arounds as a result of the alerts” and is now probing the cause of the erroneous warnings. A go-around occurs when a pilot aborts a landing attempt and climbs back to a safe altitude before making another approach. Growing Concerns Over Air Traffic Control and Safety Systems The false collision warnings come at a time of heightened scrutiny of air traffic safety systems. The incidents follow a deadly aviation accident in January 2025, when 67 people were killed in a mid-air collision involving an American Airlines jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near National Airport. That tragedy shook public confidence in aviation safety and spurred renewed calls for stronger oversight of air traffic management. The FAA has not yet determined the cause of Saturday’s false alerts but is conducting a comprehensive review of air traffic control systems, communication channels, and onboard warning mechanisms to pinpoint potential faults. Pilots Respond to False Alerts with Go-Around Maneuvers Multiple flight crews reported receiving onboard alerts of other aircraft nearby while approaching Reagan National Airport, despite no actual aircraft being in their vicinity. The alerts triggered immediate safety responses from pilots, some of whom initiated go-arounds to ensure flight safety. Last Tuesday, a separate air traffic control incident was reported at the airport when an American Airlines flight was instructed to perform a go-around to avoid potential conflict with another departing aircraft. The FAA stated that an air traffic controller directed American Flight 2246 to execute the maneuver “to ensure separation was maintained between this aircraft and a preceding departure from the same runway.” While go-arounds are standard aviation procedures designed to prevent mid-air collisions, frequent occurrences due to false alerts could indicate potential flaws in the aircraft warning systems or air traffic management. Potential Causes Under Review Aviation experts speculate that multiple factors could have contributed to the erroneous alerts, including: Technical malfunctions in aircraft proximity detection systems Glitches in air traffic control communication links Interference from external sources, potentially affecting aircraft sensors Human error in air traffic coordination The FAA has not confirmed whether the incidents were due to a single technical issue or multiple overlapping factors but assures the public that a full-scale investigation is underway. Public Confidence in Air Travel Under Scrutiny The recent air traffic control incidents and the January American Airlines-Black Hawk helicopter crash have fueled growing concerns over the reliability of aviation safety systems. In the wake of the deadly crash, a national survey found a significant drop in confidence in air safety and the federal agencies responsible for ensuring it. Industry analysts warn that if false alerts continue to disrupt flights, they could undermine the trust of passengers, pilots, and airline operators, prompting calls for further FAA oversight and reforms in air traffic management. FAA’s Next Steps and Industry Response As part of its ongoing probe, the FAA is coordinating with airlines, air traffic control units, and aviation technology experts to determine the root cause of the false warnings. The agency has also assured passengers and pilots that no immediate safety threats have been identified but that precautionary measures will be taken if needed. Airlines operating at Reagan National Airport have also pledged full cooperation with the FAA’s investigation. Some industry experts suggest that additional pilot training on handling false alerts and enhanced communication protocols between cockpit crews and air traffic controllers could help mitigate such issues in the future. Conclusion The FAA’s investigation into false collision warnings at Reagan National Airport underscores the complexities and challenges of ensuring flawless aviation safety systems. While no actual mid-air threats materialized from the incidents, the unexpected alerts and resulting flight disruptions highlight potential weaknesses in air traffic control mechanisms. As the probe continues, aviation stakeholders will be closely watching for any findings that could lead to reforms in safety protocols, technological improvements, and stronger coordination between pilots and air traffic controllers. In the meantime, travelers and airline operators alike will be looking for reassurance that the nation’s airspace remains secure and reliable. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/faa-investigates-false-collision-warnings-at-reagan-national-airport-as-pilots-execute-go-arounds-amid-rising-aviation-safety-concerns-and-air-traffic-control-scrutiny/ Solar panels blind pilots approaching Amsterdam Schiphol; runway closed for two hours when sunny Pilots landing at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport are facing significant visibility issues due to glare from a nearby solar park. After weeks of accumulating complaints, the aviation sector has decided to temporarily close the Polderbaan runway for two hours during sunny mornings, as reported by NH Nieuws. For the time being, landings on the Polderbaan will be suspended between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. whenever the sun is shining. Various stakeholders in the aviation industry, organized under the Integral Safety Management System (ISMS), have called on the municipality and the Ministry of Infrastructure to implement long-term solutions. The problem originates from De Groene Energie Corridor (DGEC), a solar park located between the Rotterpolderplein junction and the village of Zwanenburg. Positioned close to the A9 highway towards Haarlem, the solar park lies directly under the approach route for the Polderbaan, creating hazardous glare for pilots. In response, the municipality of Haarlemmermeer has urged the owner of the solar park, independent green energy producer Energy Solutions Group, to take immediate action. “DGEC has indicated that it understands the urgency and will investigate various possible measures that they can take quickly. In addition, research is being conducted into a definitive solution,” stated the office of the mayor and aldermen in a letter to the municipal council last week. Aviation authorities are working to minimize the closure of the Polderbaan, as its reduced availability increases noise pollution in surrounding areas. The temporary measure is set to remain in place until March 23, or earlier if a viable solution is found. https://www.aviation24.be/airports/amsterdam-schiphol-ams/solar-panels-blind-pilots-approaching-amsterdam-schiphol-runway-closed-for-two-hours-when-sunny/ US aviation safety ‘no longer the gold standard,’ according to statements at House hearing For decades, US officials liked to say the nation’s aviation system was the “gold standard” for safety. A House hearing on Tuesday cast doubt on that assertion. At the hearing, on problems with the nation’s air traffic control system, lawmakers pressed aviation organizations on aging infrastructure, chronic air traffic controller staffing shortages and what they called a broken hiring process. Rep. Troy Nehls, chairman of the subcommittee on aviation, pointed out that 105 of the Federal Aviation Administration’s 138 systems are unsustainable or potentially unsustainable. “For a country that considers itself the gold standard in aviation safety, these numbers are unacceptable, and we must do better,” Nehls, a Texas Republican, said in opening remarks. “While it’s easy to lay blame at the feet of the FAA, and their project management is certainly not blameless, we also have to look at our own shortfalls.” The questioning comes following a string of US aviation incidents, like the deadly midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, DC, on January 29 and other close calls throughout the country. Relatives of those who died in the January collision were in the audience on Tuesday. Air traffic control’s role in the incidents will be investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board. During the hearing, air traffic control experts and officials were asked what Congress can do. “We are not the gold standard in aviation anymore,” testified Paul Rinaldi, who spent 30 years with the FAA — half as an air traffic controller. He previously led the air traffic controllers union. “We are not even on the world’s podium.” Last week, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy rolled out a new plan to “supercharge” the FAA’s hiring process for air traffic controllers — including a 30% pay bump and streamlining the process. FAA cuts Democrats questioned the decision of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to eliminate some FAA employees. Rep. Hank Johnson, a Democrat from Georgia, called Musk a “co-president,” a reference to the tech figure’s growing role in US government. DOGE has pushed to shrink the federal workforce with thousands of job cuts throughout agencies. “I am stunned that co-Presidents Musk and Trump are firing over 500 FAA employees, including those maintaining radar systems and landing equipment, when aviation safety is already at risk,” Johnson said. After the firings, Duffy posted on social media that “less than 400 (employees) were let go” — all of which were probationary, none of which were critical safety personnel or air traffic controllers, he said. Tennessee Rep. Steve Cohen, the top Democrat in the House aviation subcommittee, called the firings at the FAA “dangerous and unjustified.” “These firings have consequences,” Cohen said. “There are some who think we should hand over the FAA to a billionaire who’s made so many mistakes in this DOGE program, and he showed he is imperfect, more often than not.” The National Air Traffic Controllers Association, a union representing 10,800 certified controllers across the nation, has warned about staffing shortages for more than a decade. Last week, Musk said Verizon’s efforts to upgrade the FAA’s air traffic control system were failing and pushed for Starlink — a unit of his satellite and rocket company — to take over. “Americans are deeply troubled and concerned about how our aviation safety is being compromised by co-President Elon Musk’s glaring conflict of interest,” Johnson added. Stress for air traffic controllers The stress of the firings and DOGE’s focus on government workers were talking points among lawmakers on Tuesday. Controllers are fielding “accusations” and “negative comments,” said Dave Spero, president of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists union, which represents 11,000 FAA and Department of Defense employees. These staff reductions add to concerns for air traffic controllers, who already face stress and pressure while on the job. Spero said three of the 132 employees his union represents were recalled following the firings. He said these employees’ skillset were needed or it would start a backlog. “As they begin to pull people out of their positions and we all have to take on more responsibilities every single day, folks wonder how this is going to play out,” Spero said. “Air traffic controllers deal and have to manage with stress, day in and day out. Anything that adds to that, any uncertainty, is what brings an added risk that has to be evaluated into the system,” added Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. Nehls also said it was “ridiculous” to have hiring and retirement age limits for air traffic controllers. Applicants must be younger than 31 years old and retire by 56 years old. This, he argued, limits the pool of talent. “I think it’s age discrimination in many, many ways, and I don’t understand why we have it,” Nehls said. Duffy has supported changing the retirement age. But Daniels said changing the requirements would not have any immediate impact on the staffing shortage. https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/04/business/faa-us-aviation-safety/index.html Couple accused of throwing coffee at airplane staff A couple was arrested after allegedly throwing coffee at airplane staff. MIAMI (CNN) - Video shows the aftermath of an incident in which a couple was arrested after allegedly assaulting airline staff while trying to board a flight. They allegedly forced their way into a restricted jet bridge at Miami International Airport over the weekend. According to police, the couple was denied boarding for being late to an American Airlines flight to Mexico. Police said the suspects disregarded “no trespassing” signs and ignored commands from a ticketing agent. According to an arrest report, the two allegedly pushed and threw coffee at the staff. They were charged with battery and trespassing. https://www.firstalert4.com/2025/03/04/couple-accused-throwing-coffee-airplane-staff/ Russia Smuggling US Plane Parts As Sanctions Ground Airliners, Jeopardizing Civil Aviation On February 13, two weeks before Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine reached the three-year mark, the US Department of Justice announced it had arrested three people linked to an Ohio company on charges of exporting $2 million worth of civilian aircraft parts and components to Russia in circumvention of US export laws. It was at least the fifth time in the past three years that the United States has accused an individual or larger entity of involvement in a scheme to illegally ship aircraft parts to Russia. In the latest case, all three individuals were current and former employees of Flighttime Enterprises, a US subsidiary of a Russian aircraft parts supplier. The growing number of smuggling cases reflects a broad and deep crisis within Russia's civilian airline industry, which has been under sweeping US and European sanctions since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Leah Walker, lab director for the Berkeley Risk and Security Lab, has analyzed Justice Department smuggling indictments going back a decade. She said Russia's aviation sector has been hit so hard by sanctions and is so dependent on Western technology that there are likely more cases. "We're just starting to see [the cases]. And I think there's a lot more that's not reported," Walker told RFE/RL. "We don't often realize -- both in Europe and the United States -- how dominant we are in aviation." There can be a two-year lag between the act of smuggling and the Justice Department publicly announcing charges, she said. Sometimes it can't move forward with a case because it is unable to get assistance from counterparts in foreign countries that are used as intermediary states before final delivery to Russia. While China also targets the US aviation industry as well, it tends to use cyber means to steal intellectual property or trade secrets. Russia prefers to smuggle parts, doing so in small sizes, she said. US-made Boeings and EU-made Airbus planes account for two-thirds of Russia's commercial fleet but carry about 90 percent of passengers. Like all aircraft, those planes require regular maintenance checkups by certified experts with certified parts. The Western sanctions ban individuals and companies from servicing those planes and upgrading parts, leaving Russian airlines with tough choices. They can either mothball planes that reach required maintenance checkup until sanctions are over, risk flying the planes and potentially putting passenger lives in danger, or smuggling in certified parts and paying off experts to conduct maintenance in violation of sanctions. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, national carrier Aeroflot has been in a crunch of declining revenues and rising costs. Russian airlines have largely chosen the latter two options, and the results are evident. Equipment failures are becoming more frequent with engine malfunctions the most concerning. Between December 1, 2024, and January 20, 2025, aircraft in Russia's civilian park suffered 11 engine failures compared to just five incidents in the previous two months. Eight were either Boeing or Airbus, while three were Russian-made Sukhoi Superjets. In early January, a Ural Airlines Airbus A321 headed to Yekaterinburg from a popular resort town in Egypt had to return to the airport after its left engine failed shortly after takeoff. No one was injured in the incident. Sanctions prevent Ural Airlines from having the engine replaced by certified experts. "That aircraft will probably just rust in Egypt until sanctions are lifted or Ural Airlines manages to sell it," a Russian pilot told RFE/RL's Russian Service. Jump In Incidents Aviation incidents in Russia were on pace last year for a 25 percent increase, according to Novaya Gazeta Europe. There were 208 incidents during the first 11 months of the year, compared to 161 in the same period of 2023. The full-year results were not yet available. At least 90 of these incidents involved unscheduled landings due to system failures, with engine and landing gear failures accounting for the majority of cases. Aviation experts believe the situation will only worsen this year unless sanctions are lifted, as planes continue to be exploited long beyond the timeframe of a comprehensive maintenance checkup. Planes require a thorough examination of their structure, systems, and components -- known in the industry as a C Check -- every 18-24 months or after completion of 3,000-6,000 flight hours. Planes are typically out of commission for several weeks during the C Check. Every six to 12 years, planes are stripped down for an inspection of their components, which are either repaired or replaced as needed. Known as a D Check, this process can take up to two months. However, none of this is possible without direct cooperation with aircraft manufacturers. With sanctions now extending into their fourth year, planes in Russia's fleet are nearing a critical point, according to a Russian flight safety expert interviewed by RFE/RL's Russian Service. "I don't have exact data on the lifespan of all Russian aircraft, but 2025 will be the last year of legal operation for most of them," the expert said. Like others cited in this report, he spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the subject and potential repercussions. Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, designed specifically for the Airbus A350 family of aircraft, are seen on the assembly line at a factory in England. Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, designed specifically for the Airbus A350 family of aircraft, are seen on the assembly line at a factory in England. Russian airlines are trying to stretch aircraft lifespans by smuggling certified parts from the United States and Europe unofficial sources, resorting to unofficial maintenance checks and reducing flight frequency. In the five cases in the United States since February 2022, the suspects exported items like carbon disk brake systems for the Boeing 737 as well as avionics, which include communications, navigation, and control systems. In most of the cases, the suspects sought to reroute the parts to Russia via third countries like Turkey, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. China Pivot? Over the past decade, as tensions between Moscow and the West intensified following Russia's seizure of Ukraine's Crimea region and incitement of war in the Donbas, the Kremlin stepped up investment in its aerospace industry to reduce dependence on US and European planes. Today, Russia's fleet consists of about 700 foreign aircraft and 150 Sukhoi Superjets. But sanctions are also impacting the ramp up of domestic planes as they too rely on Western parts like avionics. The Superjet's fuselage and wings are made in Russia but the aircraft's key components -- engines, avionics, electrical systems, landing gear, and fuel systems -- come from Western manufacturers. While the Superjet can get C and D checks inside Russia, airlines would still face the same problem of sourcing any Western parts needed for its upgrade. "Both foreign planes and Superjets will eventually be grounded due to a lack of parts. The Superjets will just last about a year longer," said another flight safety expert. As it seeks to shed its deep dependence on Western aerospace technology, Russia is pinning its hopes on a new domestic plane, the MC-21. According to a 2022 government plan, Russia aimed to produce 1,036 aircraft by 2030, including 270 MC-21s, 142 Superjets, 70 Tu-214s, and others. However, mass production has been delayed by years in part by the sweeping Western technology sanctions and in part by the need to channel resources into the war effort. A view of the crash site of a Sukhoi Superjet 100 in the Moscow region in July 2024 A view of the crash site of a Sukhoi Superjet 100 in the Moscow region in July 2024 "We're great at riveting airframes; Soviet fuselages and wings were the strongest. But we don't have engines or modern avionics because of sanctions," a Russian pilot explained. Replacing MC-21's foreign components is particularly difficult. The plane was initially designed with American engines and avionics, and Russia lacks the technological base to replace them. "We're 40 years behind in engine technology. The same goes for composite materials," one of the flight safety experts noted. As with so many other struggling domestic sectors, Russia may turn for help to China, which is developing its own aircraft engines. If China can supply Russia with reliable engines, the MC-21 may have a future, according to experts, but not until 2029 at the earliest. China's C919 aircraft currently uses Western engines, making it unavailable for Russia. However, China plans to develop a domestic engine by this year or next. "China will end up with an aircraft for pariah states -- Iran, North Korea, and Russia," one of the experts who spoke with RFE/RL concluded. https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-flight-dangers-sanctions-war-aviation/33323526.html Southwest Airlines closing 2 crew bases in cost-cutting push Southwest plans to close crew bases in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Austin, Texas. The company has been slashing unprofitable flights, reducing crews in some cities. Last month, Southwest said it would cut about 15% of its corporate headcount in its first-ever mass layoff. Southwest Airlines is closing two flight attendant bases amid its cost-cutting push that has also led to its first mass layoffs in its more than 50 years of flying. The airline is closing the satellite bases at Florida’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and at Texas’ Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, according to a flight attendant union memo. “While the Company is within its rights to make this decision, it is not without impact on Flight Attendants,” said TWU Local 556 President Bill Bernal. He said the union and company agreed to move the closure back one month, making it effective on July 1. First-class seats are getting so fancy they’re holding up new airplanes Trump is ‘not happy’ with Boeing over Air Force One delays, but airlines are growing upbeat Government travel has ‘fallen off’ since Trump inauguration, United Airlines says Southwest Airlines to slash 15% of corporate jobs in ‘unprecedented’ move to cut costs “This allows affected Members more time to make arrangements for this change in their professional and personal lives,” Bernal said. The airports are so-called satellite bases for flight attendants, not pilots, and smaller than its main bases. A Southwest spokesman said the carrier opened the bases in early 2018 and that the 280 flight attendants who will be affected can transfer to the 12 main bases. “This change will ultimately help strengthen our Crew network and support a more reliable operation for our Employees and Customers,” the airline said in a statement. The Dallas-based carrier has been slashing unprofitable routes, affecting hundreds of front-line employees, including in Atlanta. Last month, the airline said it was will cut 15% of corporate staff, or 1,750 people, that would save it about $210 million this year. The moves come after the airline settled last year with activist investor Elliott Investment Management, which won five Southwest board seats, short of control. The firm had also pushed for Bob Jordan to be replaced as CEO, though it was not successful. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/04/southwest-airlines-closing-austin-fort-lauderdale-crew-bases.html Qatar Airways to order large wide-body aircraft soon The airline reported above-market growth in passenger numbers from April 2024 until January this year, up 9 percent throughout its network Qatar Airways will soon place a sizeable order for wide-body jets to underpin its longer-term growth plans, the airline’s chief commercial officer told Reuters late on Monday. “To secure the growth of tomorrow by continuing to have a very strong and the best fleet in the industry, our CEO is working on the RFP (request for proposal) with the aircraft manufacturer to place a big order soon,” CCO Thierry Antinori said. He added that the contract would be announced soon, declining to say whether it will be signed with Airbus or Boeing or under a split deal with both. At the Farnborough Air Show in July last year, CEO Badr Al Meer said a large aircraft order was under consideration. Antinori told Reuters that the Qatari airline had recorded above-market growth in passenger numbers from April 2024 until January this year, up 9 percent throughout its network, up 14 percent in Europe and 12 percent in Germany. https://www.agbi.com/aviation/2025/03/qatar-airways-to-order-large-wide-body-aircraft-soon/ Cracks Found on KC-46 Tanker Aircraft Prompt US Air Force to Suspend Deliveries Anew The US Air Force is temporarily refusing to accept new KC-46 aerial refueling aircraft from Boeing after discovering cracks in two of four ready-for-delivery planes. The cracks were found in the “outboard fixed-trailing-edge support structure” of the aircraft, according to an announcement issued by the service’s KC-46 program office. While the damage does not pose a serious safety risk, a spokesperson explained that it must be repaired immediately to prevent reduced flight durations and limited range. “Boeing, the program office, and Air Mobility Command are working to quickly identify the root cause and develop both a near and long-term way ahead,” the spokesperson noted. The latest issue will prompt the US Air Force to inspect its fleet of 89 KC-46A Pegasus tankers already in service. Persistent Technical Challenges Boeing’s KC-46 aircraft was once hailed as the “logical choice” for US tanker aircraft recapitalization, offering a fuel capacity of 212,000 pounds (96,161 kilograms) to extend the range of other US military aircraft. It can also be reconfigured as a transport plane, with a maximum cargo capacity of 65,000 pounds (29,484 kilograms) or 58 fully-equipped soldiers. However, the KC-46 program has hit a rough patch. In 2022, the US Government Accountability Office reported that the tanker aircraft had seven “category one” deficiencies — issues deemed serious enough to potentially cause death, severe injury, or serious occupational illnesses. This prompted the US Air Force to halt deliveries in February 2023 to give Boeing time to address the quality concerns. Despite the ongoing challenges, the service remains optimistic about the KC-46, demonstrating continued confidence by already selecting seven potential bases for the advanced aerial refueler. https://thedefensepost.com/2025/03/04/cracks-aircraft-us-deliveries/ FAA union president says DOGE fired essential employees without assessment Dave Spero, the president of a union representing employees of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), said at a Tuesday hearing that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) fired essential employees without accounting for the impact their departure would have on the agency’s functions. Spero, who heads the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists union, made the remarks in response to a question from Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), who asked about connections between the firings and air safety at a hearing before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation. Spero said that only three out of the 332 FAA employees who were terminated in the recent mass firings have been brought back, and no other hires have been made to fill the positions vacated after the firings. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy previously said people in “critical safety positions” were kept at the FAA and that the only people dismissed were those who had been working there for less than a year. Nick Daniels, the president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, told the subcommittee that no air traffic controllers were fired during the recent cuts, but he added that aviation safety professionals who were let go were “all essentials.” Daniels said that they were evaluating impacts to safety and making training advancements, but he cautioned these efforts could be disrupted due to a potential government shutdown later this month. “We continue to evaluate the impacts to safety and we will make sure we raise them to this committee as appropriate,” Daniels said. When asked by Cohen if tech billionaire Elon Musk “or someone like him” should have control over the FFA’s functions and if privatization would resolve the agency’s challenges, Spero said the three key things the agency needs are predictable funding, long-term planning and faster deployment. “Privatization is not the solution to those problems,” he said, adding that finding ways to expedite the system and not having government shutdowns will help the agency perform well. The hearing comes just over a month after the crash of a military helicopter and American Airlines passenger plane that claimed more than 60 lives near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. President Trump and his administration responded to the collision by calling for an overhaul of air traffic control and the FAA. https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5175443-faa-essential-employees-fired/ Global Pilot Training Group Simaero Upgrades Airbus A330 Full Flight Simulator in 2025 Paris, France – Simaero, a global provider of aviation training and flight simulator engineering solutions, has shared that its Airbus A330 Standard 2.5 full-flight simulator in Paris has been upgraded with the certified Pratt & Whitney PW4170 engine option. “This upgrade ensures that our simulator now covers all A330 CEO engine variants, allowing airlines and pilots from around the world to train with us at Paris CDG.” stated Simaero. About SIMAERO Simaero is a world-leading provider of pilot training on full-flight simulators and simulation engineering solutions. With five training centers strategically located in France (headquarters), South Africa, China, and India, Simaero trains over 5,000 pilots every year from 250+ civil and military carriers and 80+ countries. Their simulator fleet and training solutions cover the main commercial aircraft types, including Airbus, Boeing, ATR, and Embraer. https://afm.aero/global-pilot-training-group-simaero-upgrades-airbus-a330-full-flight-simulator-in-2025/ Lawmakers Offer Bill To Open 529s to Pilot/Mx Training Collins reintroduced the legislation that previously died in the last Congress U.S. Rep. Mike Collins (R-Georgia) reintroduced legislation to permit FAA-certified commercial pilot and aircraft maintenance technical training qualified expenses for 529 college savings plans. Collins had previously offered the bill, the Aviation Workforce Development Act, in 2023, but in the absence of a major tax package it made little progress. However, it did accrue 162 co-sponsors in the last Congress, suggesting a significant amount of support. The latest introduction of H.R.1818 comes as Congress is assembling a tax bill that could serve as a potential venue for such a measure. Joining Collins in the introduction of the bill this year are Reps. Lucy McBath (D-Georgia), Jimmy Panetta (D-California), and Mike Kelly (R-Pennsylvania), who chairs the House Ways and Means Committee’s tax subcommittee. “This year’s safety concerns have made it clear that the commercial aviation industry needs a steady supply of pilots and aircraft mechanics to remain strong,” said Collins. “The bipartisan Aviation Workforce Development Act, H.R.1818, amends the tax code so Americans pursuing a career in aviation have the same tools as those seeking four-year degrees with zero increased cost to taxpayers.” Tax-advantaged savings accounts for education, 529 plans were originally designed to offset the costs of education at a four-year university. Congress has, over time, expanded the list of qualified expenses to include apprenticeship programs in certain trades. Aviation programs, however, were largely left out of this expansion. Fifteen organizations representing airlines, business and general aviation, flight trainers, and other operators have endorsed the bill. “As we look to the future of our aviation industry, it’s clear that we must open new opportunities for individuals to pursue careers as pilots and aircraft maintenance technicians,” Panetta added. “This bipartisan bill will help make the training for these critical professions more affordable by allowing 529 plans to cover aviation programs. By expanding access to these opportunities, we can support the growth of the next generation of commercial pilots and mechanics, vital to strengthening our nation's travel and tourism economy.” https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2025-03-04/lawmakers-offer-bill-open-529s-pilot-mx-training Airbus Helicopters Trains Over 7,000 Pilots and Technicians in 2024 Global – Airbus Helicopters has reached a major milestone in its global training efforts, surpassing 250,000 trainees trained to date. Through its 20 training academies worldwide, Airbus trained over 7,000 helicopter pilots and technicians in 2024 alone, reinforcing its commitment to safety, innovation, and mission-readiness across civil and military aviation sectors. Airbus operates 20 training academies worldwide, logging 18,000 helicopter simulator hours annually to enhance pilot and technician training. Over 7,000 pilots and technicians were trained in 2024, accumulating 3,000 helicopter flight hours. Training programs are tailored to varied mission requirements, including emergency medical services, firefighting, law enforcement, and military operations. Airbus offers personalized training solutions, integrating flight, maintenance, simulator-based, blended learning, and fully online courses. Airbus continues to expand its use of full-flight simulators for realistic operational and emergency training conditions, with simulator centers in the United States, Brazil, and Germany. The H125 VR simulator, first introduced in 2022 in partnership with Loft Dynamics, is now in Airbus’ South Africa Training Academy. The new H145 VR simulator, co-developed with Loft Dynamics, is expected to launch later in 2025, further enhancing cost-effective and accessible pilot training. Source: Airbus Helicopters https://afm.aero/airbus-helicopters-trains-over-7000-pilots-and-technicians-in-2024/ Kazakhstan Employs More Than 9,000 Women in Aviation with 34 Female Pilots ASTANA – Kazakhstan has 34 female pilots out of 1,459, while globally, women make up only 5% of airline pilots. The country’s aviation sector employs more than 9,500 women, including 2,005 flight attendants, 104 air traffic controllers, and about 400 professionals in engineering and technical roles. These figures were highlighted at a workshop on gender equality and women’s empowerment in aviation in Almaty on March 4. Kazakhstan hosted its first-ever two-day workshop on gender equality and women’s empowerment in aviation on March 4-5. Photo credit: Press service of the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan The first-ever two-day event brought together industry professionals and young specialists to exchange knowledge, share practical insights, and inspire greater interest in aviation among the next generation. Addressing the participants, Nicolas Rallo, the regional director for the International Civil Aviation Organization’s European and North Atlantic Office (ICAO EUR/NAT), highlighted Kazakhstan’s leadership in advancing gender equality in aviation. “ICAO remains fully committed to gender equality, and we will continue to actively engage with countries, international organizations, and industry partners in initiatives to empower women in aviation. A good example is the recently launched course on how to establish an effective mentoring program,” he said. In an interview with The Astana Times, Saltanat Tompiyeva, the chair of the Civil Aviation Committee of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport, shared insights into the country’s efforts to promote women in aviation. Saltanat Tompiyeva, chair of the Civil Aviation Committee of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport. Photo credit: Press service of the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan “There is a global trend that 30% of aviation professionals should be women, but I believe Kazakhstan is a leader in civil aviation in the region. Of the 23,000 people working in the aviation sector, over 40% are women. This is the first time the ICAO EUR/NAT regional office has held a workshop on gender equality, and it is because Kazakhstan is seen as a leader in this area,” she said. Tompiyeva noted the seminar on gender equality, the promotion of women in aviation, and equal opportunities serves as a valuable platform for those aspiring to work in the industry. “Our goal is to attract young people and challenge the stereotype that aviation is a male-dominated field. There are no inherently male or female professions—we want to break this perception and show that aviation is open to everyone,” she said. Tompiyeva emphasized there are no barriers preventing women from building aviation careers and gender equality is increasing, with strong government support. “Our country has regulatory policies that protect women’s rights, such as guaranteeing job retention for up to three years during maternity leave—something not found in many other countries. If someone has a goal, experience, and determination, a career in aviation is possible, whether they are a man or a woman,” she added. Antonio Gonzalez-Gomez, the safety promotion business partner, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) diversity, equity, and inclusion ambassador, discussed international best practices that could be applied in Kazakhstan. “In terms of best practices, the key is to attract and engage more girls in aviation. First, we must spark their interest, making them aware of aviation as a career option. Then, once they are engaged, that interest can turn into conviction, leading them to commit to a career as a pilot, air traffic controller, or engineer,” he told The Astana Times. He noted that aviation is evolving rapidly and requires diverse professionals, including data scientists, IT specialists, and medical experts—fields where women traditionally excel. “Many countries have successfully promoted these career paths to women, and Kazakhstan could benefit from placing greater emphasis on engagement and attraction,” he said. Gonzalez-Gomez also outlined key steps airlines should take to become more inclusive. “Airlines need to ensure women feel engaged and have opportunities for career development. Once an airline hires someone, it should recognize them as a valuable asset and work to retain and develop them. This includes providing training, supporting their well-being, and reassuring women that they have a future in the company, even if they take maternity leave. That requires organization, acceptance, and a shift in mentality. Many airlines already embrace this, and Kazakhstan is no exception,” said Gonzalez-Gomez. https://astanatimes.com/2025/03/kazakhstan-employs-more-than-9000-women-in-aviation-with-34-female-pilots/ CALENDAR OF EVENTS · Sponsor the 2025 Fuzion Safety Conference! March 4 & 5, 2025 (Orlando) · "Automation in Transportation: Lessons for Safe Implementation," on March 11-12, 2025, in Washington, DC. · 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 . 70th annual Business Aviation Safey Summit (BASS), May 6-7, 2025, Charlotte, N.C., organized by Flight Safety Foundation in partnership with NBAA and NATA. · Sixth Edition of International Accident Investigation Forum, 21 to 23 May 2025, Singapore · Flight Safety Foundation - Aviation Safety Forum June 5-6, 2025 - Brussels . 2025 EASA-FAA International Aviation Safety Conference, 10 Jun 2025 to 12 Jun 2025, Cologne, Germany · The 9th Shanghai International Aerospace Technology and Equipment Exposition 2025; June 11 to 13, 2025 . 3rd annual Asia Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety (AP-SAS), July 15-17, 2025, Singapore, organized by Flight Safety Foundation and CAAS. · ISASI ANNUAL SEMINAR 2025'September 29, 2025 – October 3, 2025, DENVER, COLORADO . 29th annual Bombardier Safety Standdown, November 11-13, 2025; Wichita, Kansas · CHC Safety & Quality Summit, 11th – 13th November 2025, Vancouver, BC Canada Curt Lewis