The Flemish Council for Permit Disputes has annulled the environmental permit granted by the Flemish government to Brussels Airport (BRU). The ruling, issued on July 17, 2025, was in response to several appeals, notably from Brussels Airlines, and concluded that the restrictions imposed on the airport violate European law by failing to follow the "Balanced Approach" procedure.Despite the permit's annulment, the court has ruled that the airport may continue its operations under the terms of its previous permit until July 8, 2029. This decision ensures the continuity of air traffic and averts an immediate disruption at Belgium's main aviation hub.The now-voided permit, which was intended to regulate operations after the previous license expired on July 8, 2024, had introduced stricter environmental conditions. These included a cap of 240,000 annual flight movements by 2032 and a significant reduction in weekend night flights. A total of 21 appeals were filed against this decision.The core of the legal ruling is the improper application of the "Balanced Approach," a key principle from <a href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32014R0598">EU Regulation 598/2014</a>. Brussels Airlines, the airport's home carrier, argued that limiting flight numbers is a last-resort measure. The Council for Permit Disputes agreed, stating that the Flemish government failed to prove it had exhausted other noise management alternatives before imposing such a drastic restriction.<blockquote><h3>What is the Balanced Approach?&nbsp;</h3>It is an ICAO framework adopted by the EU for managing aircraft noise. It requires authorities to assess four elements in order:Reduction of noise at the source (quieter aircraft).Land-use planning and management.Noise abatement operational procedures.Operating restrictions (as a last resort).</blockquote>Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Brussels Airlines, welcomed the decision and explained that the annulled permit "did not properly consider other ways to reduce noise." Von Boxberg highlighted the airline's commitment to the first pillar of the Balanced Approach, citing the introduction of quieter aircraft like the A320neo, and affirmed they are "committed to working closely with the government to help shape a new permit that works for everyone."Meanwhile, the airport operator, Brussels Airport Company (BAC), also appealed the permit, but on financial grounds. BAC contested the economic viability of certain conditions, such as the requirement to make an annual payment of €10 million to the railway operator Infrabel to enhance rail access to the airport.Reactions to the ruling were swift. Voka, the Flemish network of enterprises, called for the creation of a new, legally robust permit that supports economic growth. In contrast, the environmental organization Bond Beter Leefmilieu stressed that any new permit must provide stronger guarantees for health and the environment.Flemish Environment Minister Jo Brouns acknowledged the ruling and stated that the process to correctly apply the "Balanced Approach is now underway," reiterating the need to strike a balance between economic interests and environmental responsibility.

Court Annuls Brussels Airport's Environmental Permit for Violating European Law

The Nigerian government has granted official approval for Air Peace to launch direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil. The national carrier has been designated to operate the route once the required aircraft are available and pending approval from the Brazilian government. However, being designated in the bilateral agreement does not guarantee actual operations.The announcement came from Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar during a television interview. Tuggar noted that the decision was a result of the meeting between Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.In addition to Air Peace's passenger services, it was agreed that Brazilian airline LATAM will operate cargo flights between the two countries.“Air Peace will fly between Nigeria and Brazil. LATAM, Brazil’s airline, will handle the cargo,” said the minister, reports our affiliatedmedia in Brazil, <a href="https://aeroin.net/autoridades-nigerianas-autorizam-a-air-peace-a-voar-ao-brasil-e-dizem-que-a-latam-voara-a-nigeria/">AEROIN</a>.&nbsp;Tuggar also said the presidents discussed the possibility of Embraer, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, establishing a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) center in Nigeria to serve West and Central Africa.“This was emphasized by both presidents. Lula said: ‘I’m 79; Tinubu is 73; there’s no time. This needs to happen quickly.’ Tinubu agreed. We have our guidelines and are ready to move forward,” he added.Air Peace currently has a firm order for about 35 Embraer aircraft, including the E195-E2 and E175 models, with five already delivered.Its network covers 17 destinations in West Africa and London Gatwick Airport. The fleet consists of 3 Airbus A320s, 7 Boeing 737-300s, 3 Boeing 737-500s, 2 Boeing 777-200s, 2 Boeing 777-300s, 8 Embraer ERJ-145s, 5 Embraer E195-E2s, and one Embraer E190.

Air Peace granted approval to fly between Nigeria and Brazil

Gulf Air will expand its widebody fleet with up to 18 new Boeing 787 Dreamliners as part of a strategy to strengthen its long-haul network. The deal includes 12 firm aircraft orders and options for six more, potentially raising the airline’s 787 fleet to 20 units.The Bahraini carrier currently operates 10 Dreamliners in service and will bring its firm order book to 14, incorporating two previously placed orders. The signing took place in Washington, attended by Bahraini and U.S. officials alongside executives from Boeing and Gulf Air."This agreement marks a transformative step in Gulf Air's strategic growth journey as we expand our global footprint and modernize our fleet with one of the industry's most advanced and efficient aircraft," said Khalid Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group.He emphasized the performance and reliability of the aircraft: "The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has proven to be an exceptional aircraft for our long-haul operations," adding that "this new order reflects our confidence in its performance, passenger appeal and contribution to our sustainability goals." He concluded, "We are proud to deepen our partnership with Boeing and reaffirm our commitment to positioning Bahrain as a key global aviation hub."From Boeing’s side, Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, expressed: "We are excited to build on our more than 60-year partnership with Gulf Air as we deliver the market-leading 787 Dreamliner." She said the purchase "demonstrates Gulf Air's commitment to new technology and sustainable development, reinforcing Bahrain's position in the aviation sector."According to the company, its long-haul fleet composed entirely of this aircraft type will enable expanded operations in Asia, Europe, and the United States, helping to position Bahrain as a global aviation hub—a market already facing strong competition from Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, as well as the increasingly influential Riyadh.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/red_de_gulf_air_julio_2025_cirium_schedule_mapper.jpg" alt="Red de Gulf Air - Julio 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)"><figcaption>Red de Gulf Air - Julio 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)</figcaption></figure>Its fleet of Boeing 787s is complemented on short- and medium-haul routes by 8 A320s, 7 A320neos, 4 A321s, and 14 A321neos.&nbsp;

Gulf Air to Add Up to 18 New Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Its Fleet

Argentina’s commercial aviation industry recorded a new all-time high in the international segment in June 2025, with 1,127,547 passengers traveling through all airports in the country, according to data from the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC). This figure represents a 4% increase compared to the previous record set in June 2019, and a 14% increase over June 2024.The total number of passengers handled at Argentine airports —including both domestic and international flights— reached 3,585,167, marking a 12% growth compared to June last year (3,190,703). This volume consolidates a positive trend after a 2024 in which only the international segment had shown growth.The domestic segment also saw an increase: 2,457,620 passengers traveled within the country, 12% more than in June 2024, when 2,201,843 were recorded. The total number of aircraft movements —takeoffs and landings— was 29,351, representing a 10% rise compared to the 26,678 registered in June of the previous year.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/pasajeros_totales_por_aeropuerto_junio_2025_fuente_anac.jpg" alt="Pasajeros totales por aeropuerto - Junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)"><figcaption>Pasajeros totales por aeropuerto - Junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)</figcaption></figure>Several key regional airports, such as Ushuaia, El Calafate, Comodoro Rivadavia, and Jujuy, ended the first half of the year below 2024 levels. Others, including Bariloche, Mendoza, Puerto Iguazú, Neuquén, and Tucumán, posted double-digit growth.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/trafico_de_pasajeros_de_cabotaje_en_aeropuertos_argentinos_junio_2025_fuente_anac.jpg" alt="Tráfico de pasajeros de cabotaje en aeropuertos argentinos - junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)"><figcaption>Tráfico de pasajeros de cabotaje en aeropuertos argentinos - junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)</figcaption></figure>For the first half of 2025, airlines recorded an 11% increase in the number of passengers carried compared to the same period in 2024.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/mercado_de_cabotaje_argentino_por_aerolinea_junio_2025_fuente_anac.jpg" alt="Mercado de cabotaje argentino por aerolínea - Junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)"><figcaption>Mercado de cabotaje argentino por aerolínea - Junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)</figcaption></figure>In terms of airline performance in the domestic market, Aerolíneas Argentinas held a 58% market share (down 4 percentage points from June 2024), transporting 718,000 passengers (+5%) with an 83% load factor (+2 pp). JetSMART, which became the second-largest carrier this year, carried 280,000 passengers (+123%), capturing a 23% market share (+11 pp) with a load factor of 80% (-1 pp). Flybondi carried 219,000 passengers (-21%), with an 18% share (-7 pp) and an 80% load factor (-7 pp).ANAC emphasized that the growth in the international segment is the result of the Open Skies policy and deregulation measures promoted by the national government, which enabled new routes and strengthened international connectivity from regional airports, bypassing Buenos Aires.One of the most notable cases is Bariloche Airport, which saw a 169% increase in international passengers compared to June 2024. This surge is attributed to the return of seasonal flights by LATAM and Azul Linhas Aéreas, as well as the addition of seasonal routes to Belo Horizonte and Porto Alegre.The Rosario and Salta airports also showed significant progress, with increases of 59% and 52% respectively versus the same month last year. In Rosario, the growth is linked to the launch of the Rosario–Lima service operated by LAN Peru since December 2024. In Salta’s case, the Salta–Asunción route, active since February and operated by Paranair, played a key role.In June, 161,629 passengers traveled directly from regional airports to international destinations, without passing through Buenos Aires, a 35% increase over June 2024. Some of the routes with the highest year-on-year growth were Rosario–Panama (+48%), Córdoba–Santiago de Chile (+25%), and Mendoza–Santiago de Chile (+13%).<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/pasajeros_internacionales_por_aeropuerto_argentina_junio_2025_fuente_anac.jpg" alt="Pasajeros internacionales por aeropuerto - Argentina - Junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)"><figcaption>Pasajeros internacionales por aeropuerto - Argentina - Junio 2025 (Fuente: ANAC)</figcaption></figure>Still, this figure remains slightly below the record set in June 2018, prior to the pandemic, when 174,000 passengers flew abroad from the interior. However, with new routes recently announced by Copa to Tucumán and Salta (as well as increased frequencies on existing ones), LATAM from Rosario and Córdoba, and Arajet to Córdoba, among others, pre-pandemic levels are expected to be surpassed soon.The full ANAC report can be <a href="https://1drv.ms/b/c/4dc152064cb06ef6/EeRVVjxbtWJOn_OHNhi6O5gBKuQo24wGIsgx3CstksUJ8w?e=upT81N">downloaded from this link</a>.

Argentina's International Air Travel Hits New All-Time High in June 2025

Emirates landed once again in the Syrian capital on July 17, resuming a route suspended since March 2012. Flight EK913, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, arrived at Damascus International Airport (DAM) at 14:30 local time with 286 passengers on board, where it was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute.The resumption of air services ends a 13-year pause, which began when the airline decided to suspend operations due to the escalating Syrian Civil War and associated security concerns. This move represents a significant step in the normalization of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Syria and signals a vote of confidence in the stability and security of operations at Syria's main airport.A high-level UAE delegation was on board the inaugural flight, led by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, and Emirates executives including Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and Chief Operations Officer. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Syrian officials, including Hasan Ahmed Al Shehhi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Syria.Adil Al Ghaith, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, stated that by connecting Syria to nearly 150 destinations, the airline aims to facilitate tourism, trade, and investment, and support the country's recovery. He highlighted the historic ties shared by the UAE and Syria and thanked the authorities on both sides for their cooperation in resuming services.<blockquote>Why had Emirates suspended its flights to Damascus?&nbsp;Emirates, along with other international airlines, suspended its operations to Damascus in March 2012 due to the growing instability and security risks arising from the start of the Syrian Civil War.</blockquote>For his part, Alaa Sallal, Director of Public Relations at Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, added that through high-level coordination and a shared vision, teams from Syria and the UAE met all requirements to resume air operations, reflecting the strength of bilateral ties and economic cooperation.Initially, Emirates will operate three weekly flights to Damascus on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays. The airline plans to increase to four weekly services from August 2, eventually reaching daily frequency from October 26. Customers will also benefit from Emirates' codeshare agreement with flydubai for added connectivity.Emirates first launched services to Damascus in 1988 and, prior to the suspension, had transported over 2.1 million passengers on the route.

Emirates Officially Resumes Flights to Damascus After 13-Year Hiatus

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India has issued a statement urging the public and the media to refrain from spreading premature narratives regarding the crash of the Air India Boeing 787-8, registration VT-ANB. The agency described attempts by certain international media outlets to conclude as "irresponsible."<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>The Director-General of the AAIB, GVG Yugandhar, emphasized that the investigation into what is considered "the most devastating accident in recent aviation history" is being conducted rigorously and professionally. In the appeal, Yugandhar stated that "this is not the time to create public anxiety or angst towards safety of Indian Aviation Industry, particularly based on unfounded facts."The investigation is proceeding following the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017. It fulfills the Government of India's obligations under Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Since its inception in 2012, the AAIB has a flawless record of investigating 92 accidents and 111 serious incidents.<blockquote>What is ICAO Annex 13? Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation establishes the standards and recommended practices for aircraft accident and incident investigation. Its sole objective is the prevention of future accidents, not the apportionment of blame or liability. The State in which the event occurs is responsible for initiating the investigation.</blockquote>The AAIB clarified that the purpose of the preliminary report is solely to provide information about 'WHAT' happened and that it is too early to reach any definite conclusions. "The Final Investigation Report will come out with root causes and recommendations," the document specifies.The agency appealed to all concerned to respect the sensitivity of the loss faced by the family members of deceased passengers, the aircraft's crew, and other persons deceased on the ground.The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau will also publish updates as and when required which have technical and public interest, while awaiting the publication of the final investigation report.The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is a centerpiece of Air India's long-haul fleet. The airline operates a substantial fleet of this model, which is used on international routes.

AAIB Urges Caution in Air India B787 Investigation, Criticizes International Media for "Irresponsible" Reporting

Mosul International Airport, in northern Iraq, was reopened this Wednesday following an extensive reconstruction process that provided the facility with new infrastructure and modern aviation technology. The project is considered strategic by the Iraqi government to drive the economic development of Nineveh province.Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani presided over the reopening ceremony, joined by the Ministers of Defense, Transportation, and Culture, along with local authorities and members of parliament. During a tour of the upgraded facilities, Al-Sudani praised the progress of the works and the involvement of the local government.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/aeropuerto_de_mosul_iraq_5.jpg" alt="Aeropuerto de Mosul - Iraq"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/aeropuerto_de_mosul_iraq_4.jpg" alt="Aeropuerto de Mosul - Iraq"></figure>According to official sources, Mosul Airport will become fully operational in two months, once a specialized operator is selected. The reopening is part of a broader plan to integrate Mosul into the national and international air transport network.<div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d29167.641084631603!2d43.14552742548866!3d36.30362503631002!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x40079165b8a09bb3%3A0xd2a833ee09f93394!2sAeropuerto%20Internacional%20de%20Mosul!5e1!3m2!1ses-419!2sar!4v1752706515624!5m2!1ses-419!2sar" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>The airport had been devastated during ISIS occupation, and its reconstruction included a new terminal for departures and arrivals, baggage conveyor systems, a VIP lounge, an advanced radar system, digital communications, and runway lighting.The main runway was extended by 350 meters, now measuring 3,000 meters long and 45 meters wide, allowing operations by wide-body aircraft and cargo planes.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/aeropuerto_de_mosul_iraq.jpg" alt="Aeropuerto de Mosul - Iraq"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/aeropuerto_de_mosul_iraq_1.jpg" alt="Aeropuerto de Mosul - Iraq"></figure>Official projections indicate an annual capacity of 630,000 passengers and 30,000 tons of air cargo, reinforcing the airport’s role as a regional hub.Currently, seven airports in Iraq receive regular passenger flights, according to Cirium data obtained by Aviacionline: Baghdad (BGW), Basra (BSR), Erbil (EBL), Al Asad (IQA), Sulaymaniyah (ISU), Kirkuk (KIK), and Al Najaf (NJF). In July 2025, these airports handle an average of 1,600 weekly flights and offer 240,000 seats.<div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1YuP8eoSDbjkMHcaSX4A_LuCShV1MfJc&amp;ehbc=2E312F" width="640" height="480"></iframe></div>Iraqi Airways leads the market with 38% of seat capacity, followed by Qatar Airways (5.4%), Sepehran Airlines (5.2%), Turkish Airlines (5.1%), and Flydubai (5%). The rest of the market share is distributed among UR Airlines, MEA, Royal Jordanian, Pegasus, and Air Arabia.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/aeropuerto_de_mosul_iraq_6.jpg" alt="Aeropuerto de Mosul - Iraq"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/aeropuerto_de_mosul_iraq_3.jpg" alt="Aeropuerto de Mosul - Iraq"></figure>

Mosul Airport Reopens, Marking a New Chapter for a City Shaped by Conflict

Greek airline AEGEAN will add two Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft to its fleet starting in December 2025 and January 2026, extending its long-range operations with aircraft capable of flying up to 10.5 hours.&nbsp;This expansion will enable direct flights to India, with New Delhi scheduled to launch in March 2026 and Mumbai in May of the same year. In doing so, it moves ahead of IndiGo, the low-cost carrier that, although it has already begun flying to Europe using leased Boeing 787s from Norse Atlantic, will not operate the routes with its own A321XLRs until 2027.With this addition, AEGEAN’s total order for the Airbus A320/A321neo family reaches 60 aircraft, 36 of which have already been delivered. Four additional A321neo LR aircraft are expected in 2027 and 2028.The new aircraft will feature a 138-seat layout, including 24 business class suites with lie-flat beds and direct aisle access. According to the airline, all long-range aircraft (LR and XLR) will include increased personal space in economy, 4K entertainment screens, satellite Wi-Fi, USB charging ports and enlarged overhead compartments.AEGEAN plans to operate five weekly flights to New Delhi and three to Mumbai. Final timetables and ticket sales will be announced in September. With future deliveries, the company is also considering destinations including Bangalore, Seychelles, Maldives, Nairobi, Almaty and Lagos.“The addition of these two A321neo XLR aircraft with special configuration, which will be delivered in 2025, in addition to the four A321neo LRs that we plan to take delivery in 2027 and 2028, accelerates our access to the extremely important Indian market, but also allows for the immediate upgrade of our product and services to destinations outside the EU, longer than 4 hours in which we already operate”, said Eftichios Vassilakis, AEGEAN Chairman-"The A321neo XLR and LR aircraft mark the beginning of a new chapter for AEGEAN, with new possibilities for growth but also new options for our passengers and the connectivity of our country. With new fleet capabilities, strong vertically integrated support infrastructure and most importantly drawing upon the creativity and strengths of our people, we plan to move forward with ambitious but also careful and consistent steps as always.” he added.

AEGEAN to enter long-haul Europe–India market with A321XLR order

After more than two decades of absence, Gulf Air resumes operations in North America with the launch of its non-stop flights between Bahrain (BAH) and New York (JFK), operating three times per week. This marks the only direct connection between the two cities.For years, the airline studied its return to the North American market, which it had previously accessed through codeshare partners. Recently, Gulf Air established a partnership with Air Canada. The airline now faces fierce competition from Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways, all offering multiple daily flights between the Gulf region and New York.The service will begin on October 1, 2025. Flight GF 91 will depart from Bahrain (BAH) on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 04:00 AM, arriving at Terminal 1 of John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) at 10:55 AM. On the same days, the return flight GF 90 will depart New York at 03:00 PM and land in Bahrain at 10:35 AM the following day.The flights will be operated with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft configured with 282 seats across two classes: 26 in Business Class (with a 2-2-2 layout and direct aisle access) and 256 in Economy. Gulf Air has recently outfitted some of its Dreamliners with crew rest areas, tailored for long-haul operations. The airline also plans to move its operations to the new Terminal One at JFK in 2026.This new route is now available for booking, and tickets can be purchased through Gulf Air’s regular sales channels.Gulf Air Group Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Goh stated: “We are pleased to announce the launch of our direct flights to New York’s JFK Airport and our return to the North American market. This service aligns with Gulf Air’s calibrated expansion strategy and focus on strategic markets, offering passengers greater choice and comfort when traveling between Bahrain and North America and beyond via Bahrain International Airport, thus supporting the Kingdom’s connectivity strategy.”

Gulf Air Returns to North America with Nonstop JFK Route

Z Air began operating a new air connection between Curaçao and St. Maarten on Monday, July 14, offering three weekly flights using Embraer 140 aircraft.The inaugural ceremony was attended by local authorities and aviation sector representatives, including Kimberly Lew-Jen-Tai, Minister of Governance, Planning, and Public Service, representing the Government of Curaçao; Rene Winkel, CEO of Z Air; Michael Hoehenberger, COO of Curaçao Airport Partners; and Julian Diaz de Pool, Commercial Manager of Curaçao Airport Holding.As part of the event, a commemorative plaque was presented to the CEO of Z Air, depicting the Queen Emma Bridge and Handelskade at night, a symbolic gesture from the government and tourism and airport entities.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/07/curacao.jpg" alt="Curaçao"><figcaption>Photo: Curaçao Tourism Board</figcaption></figure>The inaugural flight took off for St. Maarten after receiving the traditional water cannon salute from Curaçao Airport's fire trucks.According to the Government of Curaçao and the island's Hospitality and Tourism Association, increasing flight frequencies is key to strengthening regional connectivity.<h3>Z Air flight schedule between Curaçao and St. Maarten</h3>Flight 7Z 0712 – Departs Curaçao at 8:15 a.m. and arrives in St. Maarten at 10:00 a.m. Flight 7Z 0713 – Departs St. Maarten at 10:45 a.m. and arrives in Curaçao at 12:30 p.m.Operates Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.The airline competes on this route with Winair, which operates up to 12 weekly flights using ATR 42-300 aircraft.In addition to St. Maarten, Z Air also flies to Aruba, Bonaire, Barranquilla, and Medellín. Its fleet includes three Saab 340B, two BN-2 A, one PA-31-350 Chieftain, and one Embraer ERJ 140, with a second Embraer expected to be added soon.<h3>Tourism Growth in Curaçao&nbsp;</h3>Curaçao welcomed 57,412 stayover visitors in June 2025, marking a 15% increase year‑over‑year, with Caribbean arrivals surging by 25%. South America rose by 20%, North America by 15%, and Europe by 8%. Immigration card records show an average stay of 7.7 nights, according to the island’s tourism board.Leading source markets were the United States with 17,119 visitors (+15%)—68% choosing resort hotels and 32% alternative accommodations—followed by the Netherlands with 16,390 (+6%), where 55% opted for non‑resort lodging and a 11.7‑night average stay. Colombia ranked third with 5,770 visitors (+9%), 59% in resort hotels, and a mean stay of 5.4 nights.From January to June 2025, Curaçao received 898,059 total visitors, comprising 399,738 stayover tourists, 24,516 day‑trippers, and 473,805 cruise passengers—a combined growth of 5% compared to last year. Stayover arrivals alone rose by 15%. The tourism board anticipates reaching its year‑end target of 765,000 stayover visitors, according to the agency.

Z Air completes inaugural flight between Curaçao and St. Maarten

The United Kingdom’s Air Safety Committee has decided to lift operational restrictions on Pakistani airlines flying to its territory.The decision was announced today by Jane Marriott, the UK High Commissioner to Pakistan, who nevertheless clarified that “It will take time for flights to resume,” but emphasized that this is “an important step and a testament to Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority's air safety improvements.”The UK had banned Pakistani airlines from operating in its territory in July 2020, after a series of irregularities were uncovered in the country’s commercial pilot licensing process. These revelations emerged during the investigation into the crash of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Flight 8303, in which 97 people lost their lives.<div class="raw-html-embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After a sustained, independent, and technically driven process, the UK’s Air Safety Committee has lifted its restrictions on Pakistani carriers. It will take time for flights to resume, but this is an important step, and a testament to <a href="https://twitter.com/official_pcaa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@official_pcaa</a>’s air safety improvements.— Jane Marriott (@JaneMarriottUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/JaneMarriottUK/status/1945405923456848123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>At the time, official sources confirmed that, out of 860 licensed pilots in Pakistan, 262 did not hold authentic licenses, which had been obtained through fraudulent means. As a result, PIA suspended 150 of its 434 pilots.Since then, the Pakistani government began a process of overhauling its civil aviation authority, which led to its first positive result in November 2024, when the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted its own restrictions on the country.In January of this year, Pakistan International Airlines finally returned to Europe, operating flights from Islamabad and Lahore to Paris Charles de Gaulle. However, there were high expectations surrounding the possibility of resuming operations to the United Kingdom, a market that, prior to the pandemic, saw around 25 weekly flights to Birmingham, London Heathrow, and Manchester.The airline estimated that the ban on flying to Europe resulted in revenue losses of over USD 150 million.Pakistan International Airlines, once a pioneer in Asian aviation, has faced decades of challenges, including accusations of mismanagement, overstaffing, an aging fleet, and strong regional competition.The government has repeatedly attempted to privatize the carrier, with limited success, largely due to its longstanding debt of USD 2.9 billion.In April, it was decided that this debt would be transferred to state accounts in an effort to make PIA more attractive to potential buyers. Alongside a series of reforms, this led to the airline achieving its first positive financial result in over two decades in 2024. This month, four groups were pre-approved by the Pakistani government to acquire a stake of between 51% and 100% of the airline, with a final decision expected before the end of the year.

Pakistani airlines regain access to UK market after five years

Bogotá is promoting Stopover Bogotá: Love at first runway, a strategy aimed at leveraging El Dorado Airport's role as a major hub to attract transit passengers for tourism.According to the District Tourism Institute (IDT), the initiative aims to draw 472,000 new international transit visitors between July 2025 and December 2026, allowing them up to 24‑hour stops at no additional fare. Travelers will have access to special rates on hotels, city tours, restaurants, and travel packages via Visitbogota.co.El Dorado Airport handled over 355,000 flights in 2024, servicing 102 destinations and 45 million passengers, making it Latin America’s busiest airport. Yet 95% of international transit passengers don’t leave the airport — a trend Bogotá aims to change .“With Stopover Bogotá we want more travelers to use their layover to discover our city, enjoy its diversity and bring back a story that inspires them to return. We want a layover to become a stroll through La Candelaria, a lunch of ajiaco, an afternoon on Monserrate, or an evening enjoying Bogotá’s culture,” said Andrés Santamaría, director of Bogotá’s Tourism Office.The tourism sector in 2024 generated around COP 7 trillion, supported 106,000 monthly jobs, and recorded 61.4% hotel occupancy, with an average daily international tourist spend of USD 100 .National carrier Avianca — operating 240 daily flights and approximately 18,000 connecting passengers per day at El Dorado — will be the main partner. “It is an honor for us to be part of projects like Stopover Bogotá, which are fundamental to laying the foundations for the city’s future with tourism as a development pillar,” said Avianca CEO Frederico Pedreira.The first phase will focus on seven key markets: Lima, Madrid, Miami, Guayaquil, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, and São Paulo. The IDT estimates that about 72,000 travelers will take a stopover in the second half of 2025, generating over USD 6 million in local spending.

Bogotá and Avianca Launches Stopover Program to Drive Tourism

A planned strike by the airline pilots' union APLA has been suspended after Argentina's Ministry of Human Capital, through the Secretariat of Labor, Employment and Social Security, imposed mandatory conciliation. The measure was requested by Aerolíneas Argentinas and resolved during a hearing on Tuesday.The union had scheduled a work stoppage for Saturday, July 19, to protest Decree 378/2025, which introduces changes to the working conditions of airline crews. Although the regulation will not take effect for another 90 days and its impact varies across companies, APLA chose to move forward with the protest at the start of the winter vacation period, one of the busiest travel times of the year.According to the state-owned airline, the union's decision "uses Argentine citizens' travel plans as a tool for pressure" and mainly affects Aerolíneas Argentinas passengers. The company also noted that the strike action contradicts the efforts of workers "committed to the future and economic sustainability of the airline."The airline emphasized it will not require state subsidies in 2025 and will once again report operating profits, as it did in 2024—milestones the company describes as "unprecedented" since its renationalization in 2008.

Aerolíneas Argentinas avoids flights disruption amid labor dispute

LATAM Airlines Group has launched a travel eSIM service, making it the first airline in Latin America to offer a branded mobile connectivity solution. Developed in partnership with Gigs, the eSIM is fully integrated into LATAM’s digital ecosystem and is now available through its official website.The product offers 1 to 10 GB data plans for regional and global destinations. According to the airline, it provides instant connectivity at competitive rates, bypassing costly roaming fees and the need for Wi-Fi networks.“With eSIM LATAM, we are extending our mission beyond flights; we are creating a connected travel experience that goes beyond landing” said Ramiro Alfonsín, LATAM’s Chief Commercial Officer.The service also enables travelers to accumulate LATAM Pass Miles with every purchase, reinforcing engagement with the group’s loyalty program. The eSIM can be activated instantly via LATAM’s online platform.Rafa Plantier, VP of Go-to-Market at Gigs, noted that “people switch off airplane mode before unbuckling their seatbelts. Connectivity is now a fundamental part of the travel experience. LATAM has recognized that by integrating mobile services into their ecosystem, they are simplifying travel for millions.”LATAM indicated that further integrations are planned in the coming months to enhance the product offering.

LATAM Airlines launches global eSIM with travel data plans

Iberia has updated its culinary offerings for summer 2025, both onboard and in its VIP lounges at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, featuring a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with seasonal ingredients.In long-haul Business Class, new starters include smoked salmon with lemon-pepper sauce, burrata with tomato sobrasada and spiced pumpkin, and marinated Iberian pork with melon sauce, sun-dried tomatoes and toasted almonds. Main courses now feature grilled beef sirloin with green pepper sauce, oven-baked hake with saffron potatoes, and goat cheese-stuffed pasta in piquillo pepper sauce.Desserts have also been updated with homemade options like pavlova with fresh seasonal fruit, artisan rice pudding ice cream, and chocolate truffle tart.On short- and medium-haul Business Class flights, new items include tomato tartare with piquillo pepper and sautéed prawns served with black rice and roasted zucchini.The Gastrobar menu now offers lighter summer dishes such as pastrami bagel, Caprese coca, hot lasagna, and sweet treats like hazelnut cookies paired with cold cappuccino or summer cocktails including Mojito and Rebujito.The Pre-order service, which allows passengers to select their meal in advance, includes ricotta and spinach mezzelune, Greek salad with feta cheese, and a celebration pack featuring vanilla-lemon mousse cake and cava. Customers can also pre-select the award-winning creamy rice with cuttlefish and prawn, recognized by the On board Hospitality Awards.In Iberia’s Premium Lounges, the summer offering includes cold soups like salmorejo and vichyssoise, lighter salads, seasonal fruits like melon and apricots, and new hot and cold snacks such as wraps, gyozas, and tequeños. The coffee selection now features Illy, and a new ice cream menu has been introduced.According to Iberia, these changes aim to deliver a dining experience that is “fresh, sophisticated, and representative of the best of Mediterranean cuisine.”&nbsp;

Iberia unveils new summer 2025 menus with Mediterranean flavors

The crash of Air India flight AI171 in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, could be shaping up to be a critical case study in risk management in commercial aviation. The preliminary investigation by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is reportedly directing attention toward a systemic issue: the interpretation and weight that airlines give to the various safety communications issued by regulatory authorities.A 2018 FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB), which warned of a vulnerability in the fuel control switches, is now a central piece of the investigation. The fact that its recommendations had not been implemented on the crashed aircraft raises fundamental questions about safety-related decision-making processes.Flight recorder data from the Boeing 787-8 (VT-ANB) suggests an alarming sequence of events. Seconds after a normal takeoff, both engines reportedly lost power almost simultaneously. The EAFR (Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder) analysis showed that the fuel control switches moved from "RUN" to "CUTOFF."<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="40410" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>The conversation in the cockpit would indicate that this action was inadvertent, with the pilots showing surprise. This raises a fundamental question: if it was not a deliberate action, what could have caused such a critical control to move? The answer could lie in a document issued by the FAA almost seven years earlier.&nbsp;<h3>The Regulatory Ecosystem: Understanding SAIB, AD, and EAD</h3>To understand the context of the operator's decision, it is essential to differentiate the tools the FAA uses to communicate airworthiness issues.Airworthiness Directive (AD): This is a legally binding order issued when the FAA determines that an "unsafe condition" exists. Compliance is not optional.Emergency Airworthiness Directive (EAD): This is an AD with immediate effect to correct an extreme risk that cannot wait.Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB): This occupies a different space. It is issued to alert and recommend action on a concern that does not cross the legal threshold for an AD.SAIB NM-18-33, in particular, warned about the risk that the locking mechanism of the fuel switches could be inoperative. While it recommended a specific part replacement for certain Boeing 737s, the warning about the design was relevant to the Boeing 787 (with part P/N 4TL837-3D).What is an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (EAD)? It is an order from the FAA for immediate compliance to correct a safety risk so serious that it cannot wait for the usual processes of a standard AD.Why would the FAA issue an SAIB instead of an AD? The FAA would do so when it identifies a safety concern but determines that it does not meet the legal threshold to be classified as an "unsafe condition," which is the requirement for an AD. The SAIB serves to recommend and inform, not to compel.What questions does this case raise about SAIBs? It raises how operators should assess the risks of an SAIB and what the expected standard of care is, even if the recommendations are not legally mandatory.&nbsp;<h3>The Regulatory Gap: "Not Mandatory" Does Not Mean "No Risk"</h3>The FAA's decision to issue an SAIB instead of an AD was reportedly based on the problem "not being an unsafe condition that would justify airworthiness directive action." This stance, in practice, transfers the burden of risk assessment to the operator. This is where a complex "gray area" of responsibility and safety management arises.Ignoring such a warning, however, would entail several risks that go beyond simple regulatory compliance. First, it would open the door to enormous civil liability. In a post-accident court scenario, a plaintiff could argue that the airline, having been notified by the FAA through an SAIB, was aware of the risk and had a simple and low-cost mitigation available. The argument would not be whether the action was mandatory, but whether a "reasonably prudent operator," with knowledge of the danger, would have acted.Second, and perhaps more importantly from an operational safety perspective, it would represent a potential failure of the company's Safety Management System (SMS). A robust SMS, a pillar of modern aviation, is designed to treat an SAIB as a formally identified hazard that requires an internal risk analysis, regardless of its regulatory status. The process would dictate that the hazard (a faulty fuel switch) be evaluated in a risk matrix. The consequence (a dual engine shutdown on takeoff) would always be catastrophic, so even a low probability would result in a level of risk that would, most likely, demand mitigating action.&nbsp;<h3>The Necessary Debate on the Limits of the Non-Mandatory</h3>The preliminary report from the AAIB, by indicating that the suggested inspection was not performed due to its "advisory and non-mandatory" nature, not only points to a decision but opens a profound debate for the industry:How should a Safety Management System (SMS) process, document, and act on a risk identified in an SAIB?What criteria would an operator use to determine that the risk described in a bulletin is acceptable and does not require the recommended action? Would this risk analysis be formally documented for future reviews and audits?If a non-mandatory recommendation could have been a factor in preventing an accident, where would the ultimate responsibility for managing that risk lie?Regardless of the final outcome of the investigation, the crash of flight AI171 must be the start of an urgent and honest conversation about the philosophy of safety. The debate would not just be about a switch, but about how the industry ensures that a "recommendation" from a safety authority receives the weight it deserves to prevent future tragedies.

Recommended versus Mandatory: The Potential Link Between an FAA Bulletin and the Air India Disaster

India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has published its preliminary report on the crash of Air India Flight AI171 , which occurred on June 12. Data recovered from the flight recorder (EAFR) of the Boeing 787-8, registration VT-ANB , indicates that the catastrophic sequence began when the fuel cutoff switches for both engines were moved from the "RUN" to the "CUTOFF" position just three seconds after the aircraft took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (VAAH).The flight, bound for London's Gatwick Airport (EGKK), was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members. The aircraft crashed at approximately 08:09 UTC in a residential area 0.9 nautical miles from the end of runway 23 , resulting in the deaths of all crew members, 229 passengers, and 19 people on the ground. Only one passenger survived with serious injuries.According to the Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder (EAFR) data, the aircraft lifted off at 08:08:39 UTC. Three seconds later, upon reaching a speed of 180 knots, the fuel switches for the GEnx-1B engines were moved to the cutoff position, interrupting the fuel flow.The cockpit voice recording captured a crucial exchange between the pilots. One of them asked the other why he had cut off the engines, to which the second pilot replied that he had not done it. This conversation suggests the action was unexpected and unintentional by the crew.As a direct consequence of the loss of power from both engines, the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) automatically deployed to supply emergency hydraulic power, a fact confirmed by both flight data and airport security camera footage.<blockquote><h3>What We Know So Far</h3>What was the main cause of the Flight AI171 accident? The preliminary report indicates that the fuel switches for both engines were moved to the "CUTOFF" position seconds after takeoff, causing a dual engine shutdown.Was it an intentional action by the pilots? The cockpit voice recording suggests it was not. One pilot expressed surprise, and the other denied having moved the switches.Was there a known issue with the aircraft? A 2018 FAA bulletin warned of a potential problem with the locking feature of the fuel control switches on this aircraft model. The recommended inspections were advisory and had not been performed on the aircraft.</blockquote>Twelve seconds after the initial cutoff, the crew attempted a relight by moving the switches back to the "RUN" position. Engine 1 showed signs of recovery, but Engine 2 failed to regain its core speed before the aircraft impacted several buildings of the BJ Medical College complex. The crew transmitted a "MAYDAY" call at 08:09:05 UTC, seconds before the recording stopped.The report also highlights a relevant contextual factor. In December 2018, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) NM-18-33. This document warned of the "potential disengagement of the fuel control switch locking feature" on several Boeing models, including the 787. A disengaged locking feature could make the switches more susceptible to accidental movement.Air India confirmed to investigators that the inspections suggested in the SAIB were not carried out on VT-ANB because the bulletin was advisory and not a mandatory airworthiness directive.The investigation, led by India's AAIB, includes collaboration with the U.S. NTSB, as well as technical advisors from Boeing, GE Aviation, and the FAA. The team of investigators continues to analyze the evidence and, at this stage, has not issued safety recommendations for operators of Boeing 787 aircraft or GEnx-1B engines.

Air India Flight AI171 Preliminary Report: A Dual Engine Shutdown Caused the Tragedy in Ahmedabad

AirAsia Berhad, a subsidiary of Capital A Berhad, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Paris with Airbus for 50 A321XLR aircraft, with options for 20 more, in an agreement valued at USD 12.25 billion.&nbsp;The signing, attended by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, marks a strategic shift as the airline positions itself to become the world’s first low-cost carrier operating as a network airline, supported by a multi-hub structure. This approach differs from the typical point-to-point model used by low-cost carriers, instead relying on connected flights and centralized hubs.Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and a key figure at AirAsia, said the airline is “taking the next step after pioneering low-cost travel in Asia,” and described the shift as one of “exponential growth, connecting geographies beyond Southeast Asia and making flying even more accessible.” He added that the aim is to “let the world see Asean, and Asean see the world.”Deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled between 2028 and 2032, enabling the airline to open up long-haul routes currently underserved, including destinations in Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. According to the company, the A321XLR model offers up to 20% lower fuel burn per seat compared to the A321neo, improving environmental performance and operational efficiency.“AirAsia is creating solid fleet efficiencies that allow for the expansion of a global network,” said Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft. He noted that the A321XLR “unlocks new opportunities to launch non-stop flights linking primary and secondary cities around the world.”The aircraft will join an all-Airbus fleet currently composed of A320 and A330 models. AirAsia highlights that this multi-aircraft strategy enables better capacity management, lower fuel consumption, and a more sustainable, cost-efficient operation in a competitive global market.According to the airline, its goal is to carry 150 million passengers annually by 2030, reaching a cumulative total of 1.5 billion passengers since its founding.

English

Court Annuls Brussels Airport's Environmental Permit for Violating European Law

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Gulf Air to Add Up to 18 New Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Its Fleet

Argentina's International Air Travel Hits New All-Time High in June 2025

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AAIB Urges Caution in Air India B787 Investigation, Criticizes International Media for "Irresponsible" Reporting

Mosul Airport Reopens, Marking a New Chapter for a City Shaped by Conflict

AEGEAN to enter long-haul Europe–India market with A321XLR order

Gulf Air Returns to North America with Nonstop JFK Route

Z Air completes inaugural flight between Curaçao and St. Maarten

Pakistani airlines regain access to UK market after five years

Bogotá and Avianca Launches Stopover Program to Drive Tourism

Aerolíneas Argentinas avoids flights disruption amid labor dispute

LATAM Airlines launches global eSIM with travel data plans

Iberia unveils new summer 2025 menus with Mediterranean flavors

Recommended versus Mandatory: The Potential Link Between an FAA Bulletin and the Air India Disaster

Air India Flight AI171 Preliminary Report: A Dual Engine Shutdown Caused the Tragedy in Ahmedabad

AirAsia orders up to 70 A321XLRs to launch global network model

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