FlightGlobal
• Graham Dunn
Wizz Air had 27 A320neos grounded at the end of June because of Pratt & Whitney GTF engine issues, but says its fleet is on track to move beyond the disruption by the end of 2027. The timeline underscores the continuing effect of engine availability on narrowbody capacity planning.
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Wizz Air reopened its base at Palermo International on Aug. 3, 2026, restoring a presence in the Sicilian capital after withdrawing in 2022. The move marks the airline’s return to Palermo and expands its operating footprint in Italy.
Wizz Air had 27 A320neos grounded at the end of June because of Pratt & Whitney GTF engine issues, but says its fleet is on track to move beyond the disruption by the end of 2027. The timeline underscores the continuing effect of engine availability on narrowbody capacity planning.
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Akasa Air supports a proposed Indian policy change that would allow airport operators to run airlines, according to its top executive. The position contrasts with market leader IndiGo’s opposition, setting up a debate over competition and the relationship between airport ownership and airline operations.
Cebu Pacific expects to return to a more traditional growth model in 2027, moderating capacity increases after an aggressive post-pandemic expansion. The Philippine carrier remains confident in its long-term prospects while acknowledging that growth is beginning to slow.
Skytraders’ VH-VHD “Snowbird 1” evacuated a U.S. expeditioner from the U.S.-operated McMurdo Station to a New Zealand hospital after an urgent request for assistance. The Australian crew used a narrow weather window to operate in Antarctica’s extreme midwinter cold and near-darkness.
An Egyptian court has upheld a $787 million award against Iraqi Airways, maintaining a major legal and financial liability for the Iraqi flag carrier. The ruling adds pressure to the airline as it manages the consequences of the long-running dispute and its potential impact on operations and finances.
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Malaysia Aviation Group has ordered all 1,260 Malaysia Airlines pilots to complete compulsory drug screening by Aug. 15 after a second officer was arrested at Jakarta airport on alleged drug-smuggling charges. Indonesian police said the pilot tested positive for ecstasy and cocaine; cabin-crew testing will follow.
The planned sale of Russian regional airline Izhavia will proceed despite the carrier losing its air operator certificate, creating uncertainty around the transaction’s structure, operating continuity and value. The development highlights the regulatory and operational risks facing airline ownership deals in Russia’s aviation market.
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