Airlines

Airbus in talks to sell more A220 jets to Delta.

PARIS — According to two people familiar with the situation, European aircraft manufacturer Airbus is negotiating to increase Delta Air Lines’ current order for A220 light jetliners. The deal for a top-up order of around a dozen aircraft could be signed at next week’s Farnborough Airshow where the U.S. carrier is also widely expected to finalize an order for at least 100 Boeing 737 MAX airliners.

Regarding conversations with customers, Airbus declined to comment. Delta also choose not to respond. According to end-June Airbus data, the airline has ordered 95 A220s with Canadian design, of which 56 have been delivered.

Reuters first reported in March that Boeing was in talks with Delta for some 100 of its 737 MAX 10 jets. Delta Chief Executive Officer Ed Bastian said in June the airline was trying to reach a deal with Boeing. Bastian did not disclose a deal with Airbus or Boeing during a teleconference with investors on Wednesday, but he did say that the airline could place some extra orders. He continued by saying that Delta is in a strong position with orders but anticipates potential for significant narrow-body purchases over the next three to five years.

There is opportunity whether it is new or used, according to Bastian, who noted that they frequently discuss it with Airbus and Boeing. We have a steady stream of wide-bodies arriving. Therefore, I would suggest that the massive thin bodies are the main focus in the final five years.

Airlines

Qantas Engineers Stage Walkout Over Cost of Living Concerns

Tensions at Qantas reached new heights as base maintenance workers in Brisbane walked out of a hangar meeting hosted by the airline’s CEO, Vanessa Hudson.

The walkout was a clear display of displeasure and aimed to send a strong message to the company’s management about the growing frustrations within the workforce. The workers, represented by the Qantas Engineers Alliance, have been pushing for wage increases that reflect the rising cost of living.

In an open display of displeasure, Qantas Base maintenance workers walked out of a hangar meet hosted by the CEO Vanessa Hudson in Brisbane, also aimed to send a message to the management.

Qantas Engineers Alliance members have been demanding decent wage increases to match with… pic.twitter.com/y9EVjc46VM— FL360aero (@fl360aero) September 14, 2024

Despite ongoing discussions, the employees feel that their concerns have been overlooked, leading to this public show of dissent. The hangar meeting, meant to foster dialogue and address employee concerns, instead became the stage for a visible demonstration of dissatisfaction as the workers exited in unison.

For some time, the engineers and maintenance staff have expressed frustration over wage stagnation amid increasing inflation and living costs. Their demand is simple: a decent and fair wage adjustment that keeps pace with economic realities. The walkout underscores the workers’ determination to stand firm on their request for better pay and fair treatment.

As Qantas navigates its recovery post-pandemic, this incident highlights the growing internal challenges the airline faces, especially concerning its workforce. The maintenance staff’s actions have put additional pressure on the company’s leadership to address the wage concerns and avoid further escalation.