Policy & Regulation News

FlightGlobal

IAG seeks delay to SAF sub-mandates, warning of multibillion-dollar fines

IAG’s sustainability chief says the airline group could face multibillion-dollar fines if it cannot comply with sustainable aviation fuel sub-mandates, with the resulting costs passed on to passengers. Fuel producers, meanwhile, are urging policymakers to leave the mandates unchanged.

Space Intel Report

High activity

NASA awards Viasat, SES and Astranis NEXUS contracts worth up to $1.07 billion for TDRS-compatible relay services

The contracts will support development of Ka-band relay services compatible with NASA’s aging Tracking and Data Relay Satellite fleet. Viasat received a Phase 1 award under the NEXUS initiative, which is intended to provide a path to satellite communications services through the three selected companies.

ch-aviation

TUI Airways seeks U.S. foreign charter operator status

TUI Airways is seeking U.S. foreign charter operator status, according to a report in Commercial Aviation News. The available article summary does not provide details on the application, the operations sought or a regulatory decision.

FlightGlobal

Heathrow chief says debate on third runway should shift to ‘how, not if’

Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye said the discussion should focus on how to build a third runway, as Chancellor John Healey reiterated the UK government’s support for expanding the London hub. The comments signal renewed political backing, but the articles provide no details on timing or delivery plans.

FlightGlobal

Heathrow airport chief sees runway debate shift to ‘how, not if’

ch-aviation

High activity

Emirates expects a small initial 777X delivery in 2027 as Singapore Airlines says it will accept early-build jets

Emirates expects three to five 777X aircraft toward the end of 2027, while Singapore Airlines says it is not facing pressure to reject early-build 777-9s and has 31 on order. Separately, an FAA emissions exemption could allow Boeing to deliver 35 additional 777Fs from 2028 to 2031.

FlightGlobal

FAA approves Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser for reentry ahead of a first mission that will test simulated ISS berthing

The FAA has approved Dream Chaser for reentry, a regulatory step for Sierra Space’s spaceplane. Its first mission is planned to include a simulated berthing with the International Space Station, testing a key part of the vehicle’s intended cargo-delivery mission.

Wall Street Journal

High activity

United restricts third-party AI agents from booking flights on its digital platforms, citing security and regulatory concerns

United Airlines is restricting third-party AI agents from accessing its digital platforms to book flights and carry out other transactions. The carrier cited cybersecurity, privacy and regulatory concerns as AI tools gain the ability to plan and book trips for travelers.