Leadership News

CNBC

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Rolls-Royce claims progress on Trent durability and boosts outlook; BAE lifts guidance as defense spending rises, flags GCAP par

Rolls-Royce says new blades and ongoing Trent engine improvements have “effectively eliminated” aircraft-on-ground across its Trent 1000 and 7000 fleets in the first half, while the company raised full-year and 2026 guidance after a 46% jump in first-half operating profit. BAE Systems also lifted sales, profitability and cash flow targets on strong results, while CEO Charles Woodburn warned against expanding Global Combat Air Programme partners too quickly.

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Air Premia plans $76M rights issue to fund growth

South Korea’s Air Premia (Incheon-based) plans to raise KRW110 billion (USD75.9 million) via a shareholder rights issue of 550 million new common shares priced at KRW200 (USD0.13) each. The capital raise is designed to support the airline’s next phase of development.

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Plus Ultra executives resign amid Spain corruption investigation

Executives at Spain’s Plus Ultra have quit following a corruption probe, according to the report. The leadership departures add to uncertainty around the airline’s governance and oversight while investigations proceed.

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United CEO Scott Kirby discussed a potential 2025 merger with Delta’s Ed Bastian

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby reportedly contacted Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian about pursuing a potential merger in 2025, according to coverage tied to the Chicago O’Hare executive dialogue. The discussion signals renewed consolidation interest between the two major carriers.

Reuters

FAA proposes environmental-rule waivers to expedite US commercial rocket launch and spaceport approvals

The U.S. Transportation Department and FAA have proposed sweeping changes to streamline licensing for commercial rocket launches and spaceport operations. The proposal would grant environmental review waivers, bypassing long-standing requirements tied to 13 laws, aiming to speed approvals for missions such as SpaceX and other commercial operators.

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American Airlines targets profit gap closure vs Delta and United, pushes widebody order plan and rules out a United merger

American Airlines says it is pursuing a long-term strategy to narrow its profitability gap with Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. The carrier is also preparing for a new widebody aircraft order and dismissed the possibility of a merger with United, signaling continued focus on network and fleet execution.

CNBC

High activity

Boeing logs record $715B backlog while Air Force One VC-25B replacement costs balloon

Boeing reported a larger-than-expected Q2 loss, citing a $280 million charge tied to the troubled VC-25B Air Force One replacement. The company says it remains on track to deliver the first two modified B747-8(VC-25B) aircraft in 2028, even as it continues to pay out of pocket for cost overruns. Revenue rose to $24.6 billion, with free cash flow improving as turnaround plans gained momentum.

FlightGlobal

IndiGo/InterGlobe Aviation names Kiran Thadimarri CFO as Willie Walsh receives security clearance

InterGlobe Aviation has appointed Kiran Thadimarri as IndiGo’s chief financial officer, effective July 28, replacing Gaurav Negi, who will move to an advisory role. The shift aligns with the expected arrival of Willie Walsh as next CEO in the first week of August following a government security clearance.