Aviation

Airbus in Talks for Major Sale of Widebody Jets to Chinese Market

According to the Reports from Bloomberg News, Airbus SE is reportedly engaged in negotiations for a significant sale of A330neo aircraft to China.

Sources familiar with the matter suggest that some of the largest Chinese airlines are contemplating the purchase of more than 100 of these upgraded A330 models. The terms of the deal are still under discussion, and the timing remains uncertain.

The A330neo, an enhanced version of the previous A330 series featuring new engine options, has garnered significant interest. Before its upgrade, the A330 series amassed a total of 1,445 orders.

The timing of these negotiations is notable, as China has once again halted imports from Boeing, presenting an opportunity for Airbus to present more favorable terms to Chinese airlines. This development underscores the growing divergence between Airbus and Boeing in navigating China’s crucial aviation market amidst heightened geopolitical tensions between China and the US.

China’s decision to halt imports from Boeing, shortly after resuming them following a five-year hiatus, is linked to regulatory scrutiny of a cockpit voice recorder design approved by US and European counterparts. Airbus, on the other hand, benefits from its substantial investment in China, including manufacturing facilities for the popular A320neo and A330 models. The recent diplomatic efforts by Chinese President Xi Jinping towards European leaders further enhance Airbus’s position in the region.

For Airbus, a potential order from China would bolster the backlog for the A330neo, which has faced slower sales compared to its predecessors. The A330neo’s updated features, including new engines and wings, make it an attractive option for airlines seeking efficiency and performance improvements.

Aviation

Air India to Implement Fatigue Report Verification for Flight Crew

Air India is set to implement a new internal policy starting October 1, aimed at verifying the authenticity of fatigue reports submitted by its flight crew. Reports deemed “unsubstantiated” will be reclassified as “sick leave.”

This initiative is part of a broader set of measures designed to boost operational efficiencies in preparation for Air India‘s merger with Vistara. While officials promote the policy as a step towards improved operational integrity, it has sparked significant concern among pilots.

Southwest Airlines Unveils 3-Year ‘Southwest. Even Better.’ Plan for Growth

Many feel that this approach could deter them from reporting genuine fatigue, which is crucial for maintaining flight safety. One pilot expressed, “This policy needs to be reconsidered. Rather than questioning whether a pilot is experiencing ‘fatigue’ or is ‘sick,’ the airline should extend trust to its pilots in all areas.”

Another echoed these sentiments, stating, “We may hesitate to report ‘fatigue’ if it risks being classified as ‘sick leave.’” The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) defines fatigue reports as formal documents filed by flight crew members to indicate excessive tiredness that could impair their performance.

Top 10 Most Connected Low-Cost Carrier Airports in the World

In response to concerns, air india refurbishment clarified that the new Fatigue Protocol is in line with global best practices and is intended as a non-punitive measure. To safeguard crew well-being, the airline plans to utilize scientific tools such as Jeppesen and the Boeing Alertness Model (BAM).

Under the new policy, if a crew member reports fatigue within 12 hours of their scheduled duty, the report will be recorded as “Fatigue,” triggering immediate escalation to scheduling management and flight safety departments. This move aims to prioritize crew welfare while addressing operational demands.

Additionally, recent regulations have increased weekly rest periods for flight crews from 36 to 48 hours, a change pilots have welcomed, though airlines have expressed concerns about the feasibility of meeting these new standards. The DGCA had initially set deadlines for compliance but reversed its decision after airlines raised apprehensions about potential reductions in flight capacity.