Aviation Safety & Regulation News

Reuters

High activity

Global air traffic control shortage could require 71,000 new controllers by 2034, driving cross-border recruitment

A reported worldwide shortage is prompting countries to recruit experienced air traffic controllers from abroad, with officials warning that staffing gaps can heighten safety concerns and disrupt flights. Forecasts cited in the coverage put demand at 71,000 additional controllers globally by 2034, intensifying competition for qualified personnel.

FlightGlobal

US inspector general probes FAA oversight of helicopter tours after fatal Bell 206 crash highlighted regulatory loophole

The Transportation Department inspector general is examining FAA regulation of the helicopter tour industry after a Bell 206 crashed during a tour flight last year. The NTSB is investigating the wreckage; the inspector general has also flagged a loophole that lets aerial photography flights operate under less-stringent Part 91 rules.

FlightGlobal

US transportation inspector probes FAA regulation of helicopter tour industry

AeroTime

FAA orders inspections of 60 US Boeing 787s over fuel-tank ignition risk

The FAA has ordered inspections of fuel-tank sealant on 60 Boeing 787s registered in the United States, citing a potential explosion risk if lightning strikes ignite fuel vapors. The directive puts attention on a specific aircraft-system vulnerability and the inspection work required to address it.

AeroTime

FAA orders Boeing 787 fuel tank inspections over lightning strike explosion risk

Reuters

High activity

Bomb threats target European passenger flights, prompting diversions and security checks

A series of bomb threats against flights operated by Ryanair, Wizz Air, LOT Polish Airlines and SAS disrupted passenger operations across Europe. Aircraft were diverted or made emergency landings, while security services inspected planes and fighter jets escorted some flights; no explosives have been found.

FlightGlobal

Air India Express 737 backtracked on runway as Indian Navy fighter took off

An inquiry into a serious runway incursion at Dabolim found that an Air India Express Boeing 737 crew failed to acknowledge a hold-short instruction. The aircraft backtracked along the runway while a Navy fighter was taking off, bringing airline and military operations into conflict.

Reuters

High activity

Two Airbus AS350 helicopters collide while landing near Everest, killing one and injuring three

Two Airbus AS350 helicopters operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty collided while approaching the Pheriche helipad in Nepal’s Everest region on Nov. 3, 2026. One passenger, identified in one report as an Indian national, was killed; three other people, including a pilot, were injured.