Paddle Your Own Kanoo
• Mateusz Maszczynski
American Airlines is dealing with malfunctioning business-class seats aboard its new Airbus A321XLR aircraft. While seat breakdowns are common in airline operations, the reported failures are drawing attention because they affect a premium cabin on a newly introduced long-range narrowbody, with the underlying cause still unclear.
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American Airlines is dealing with malfunctioning business-class seats aboard its new Airbus A321XLR aircraft. While seat breakdowns are common in airline operations, the reported failures are drawing attention because they affect a premium cabin on a newly introduced long-range narrowbody, with the underlying cause still unclear.
Icelandair’s mechanics could begin an indefinite strike later this month after negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement broke down in June. A state mediator has been brought in, but the planned work stoppage threatens disruption to the airline’s maintenance operations if no agreement is reached.
Iberia has received authorization to perform comprehensive, end-to-end maintenance on its Airbus A350 fleet. The approval is notable because it was granted without limitations, expanding the Spanish flag carrier’s ability to manage the aircraft’s maintenance requirements in-house.
Aircraft maintenance software provider Veryon has acquired Polaris Aero, a developer of aviation safety software. The deal expands Veryon’s customer base by more than 200 organizations and combines maintenance and safety software capabilities under one provider.
Vietjet and Thales signed agreements in Paris covering aircraft maintenance, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity during Vietnam’s state visit to France. The deals broaden the relationship between the Vietnamese airline and the European aerospace and technology group across operational support and digital capabilities.
High activity
Global airlines are urging jet-engine manufacturers to make it easier for independent companies to supply reconditioned parts, following a European settlement involving turboprops. The push seeks greater competition in the aftermarket as carriers contend with the cost and availability of engine components.
Flexjet has opened a 3,530-square-meter MRO hangar and a 2,098-square-meter fixed-base operator at Farnborough Airport in the UK. The approximately $34 million development marks the private aviation company’s first FBO in Europe and expands its support infrastructure at a major business aviation hub.
High activity
Japan Airlines and French drone maker Donecle have begun trials of fully autonomous drones at JAL’s hangars, marking Japan’s first joint project of its kind. JAL says the technology could eventually support inspections for lightning strikes and paint condition, alongside routine exterior checks.
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