Airlines News

Reuters

High activity

Flydubai co-pilot suspected of planning attack before hiring; investigators see no organizational or foreign-government ties

The co-pilot, an Omani national, allegedly stabbed the captain in an attempt to crash the aircraft, according to reporting citing Israeli officials familiar with the investigation. A preliminary probe reportedly found no indication he was linked to an organization or foreign government, pointing investigators toward a lone-actor explanation.

FlightGlobal

Air Astana plans first direct Japan flights, with JAL codeshare on Almaty–Tokyo Narita route

Air Astana plans to begin direct flights between Almaty and Tokyo Narita toward the end of the year, marking its first service to Japan. Japan Airlines will codeshare on the route, extending its reach through the new connection.

AeroTime

Pegasus completes acquisition of Czech Airlines and Smartwings Group, appoints new Smartwings CEO and CFO

Smartwings has named a new chief executive and chief financial officer following confirmation that Pegasus Airlines completed its acquisition of Czech Airlines and Smartwings Group. The leadership appointments mark an immediate management change at Smartwings under its new ownership.

ch-aviation

China Eastern approves $507 million investment in Shanghai Pudong production support area

China Eastern Airlines’ board approved a CNY3.4 billion ($507 million) investment in a production support area at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. The project is part of the airport’s Phase IV expansion, linking the carrier’s base development to a major airport infrastructure program.

ch-aviation

Singapore Airlines and Scoot extend Middle East flight suspensions through December

Singapore Airlines and low-cost subsidiary Scoot have extended the cancellation of their Middle East flights through December. The prolonged suspension will affect the carriers’ regional schedules and passengers, reflecting the continued operational impact of conditions in the Middle East.

PaxEx.Aero

Alaska Airlines’ Aurora 737 MAX 10 Will Use a Rare Split-Cabin IFE Layout

Alaska Airlines plans to limit seatback in-flight entertainment screens to selected seats in the premium Aurora configuration of its 737 MAX 10. The unusual choice reflects a differentiated approach to cabin design and passenger experience, with the airline offering specific reasons for departing from the industry norm.

ch-aviation

Garuda Indonesia plans up to 124.4 billion new shares in restructuring rights issue

Garuda Indonesia plans to issue up to 124.4 billion new Series E shares through a rights issue as part of its 2025–2029 restructuring plan. The transaction represents the airline’s latest effort to strengthen its financial position and support its long-term recovery strategy.

Air Data News

Biman Bangladesh set to order four A350-900s and six A321neos after adding 11 Boeing jets

Biman Bangladesh Airlines is expected to sign an agreement for 10 Airbus aircraft on Oct. 7, comprising four A350-900 widebodies and six A321neos. The planned purchase follows the carrier’s recently announced order for 11 Boeing 787-10s and 737-8s, indicating a major fleet expansion across both manufacturers.