Flying Magazine
• Jack Daleo
Two Airlink passenger jets flew an estimated 45 feet above Cape Town’s DHL Stadium before a South Africa-New Zealand rugby match, drawing cheers from roughly 56,000 spectators but prompting concerns over the risks of staging low-level aviation displays over densely packed venues. A follow-on flyby is reportedly being considered.
Airlines
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TAP Air Portugal reported growing losses in the first half of 2026 as the Portuguese carrier awaits a decision on its planned sale. Air France-KLM and Lufthansa Group are competing to become TAP’s new owner, adding financial pressure to an already consequential privatization process.
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Two Airlink passenger jets flew an estimated 45 feet above Cape Town’s DHL Stadium before a South Africa-New Zealand rugby match, drawing cheers from roughly 56,000 spectators but prompting concerns over the risks of staging low-level aviation displays over densely packed venues. A follow-on flyby is reportedly being considered.
India’s Fly91 is nearing an order for at least 20 ATR turboprop aircraft, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The deal would support the startup’s fleet expansion and deepen its commitment to India’s regional aviation market, which is being encouraged through government subsidies for connectivity.
Kenya Airways is in ongoing discussions to secure a long-term lease for a Boeing 777 freighter after ending its capacity agreement with Terra Avia. Acting CEO George Kamal cited soaring fuel costs, highlighting the carrier’s effort to recalibrate cargo capacity and operating exposure.
Industrial action by aviation workers, including air-traffic controllers, has caused hours-long delays at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and disrupted Kenya Airways and partner flights across multiple routes. The renewed strike has stranded thousands of travelers and raised fresh concerns about regional connectivity through East Africa’s key aviation hub.
Iran’s government has appointed a task force focused on reviving the fleet of Iran Aseman Airlines, signaling a renewed effort to address the carrier’s aircraft and operational challenges. The move places fleet recovery at the center of the airline’s future strategy.
Pauls Calitis, the new CEO of Lisbon-based euroAtlantic Airways, says the carrier plans to maintain both Boeing and Airbus widebody fleets as it expands its ACMI offering. The strategy reflects customer requirements for aircraft availability and operational flexibility across the wet-lease market.
RwandAir CEO Yvonne Manzi Makolo is urging African governments and industry stakeholders to form a “coalition of the willing” to advance the continent’s open-skies agenda. She called for clear implementation timelines and measurable outcomes, moving beyond commitments toward practical liberalization of intra-African air travel.
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