Aviation

Thailand-bound flight returns to Singapore after alleged bomb threat

SINGAPORE (Reuters) – Two Singapore fighter jets escorted a civilian plane bound for Thailand safely back to the city-state on Thursday after a bomb threat by a passenger that turned out to be a false alarm.

After searching the plane and the baggage of the person that made the threat and his two traveling companions, police said no such threat was found.

Three passengers were assisting police with their investigations, they said. Scoot, the budget carrier of Singapore Airlines, said that all 173 passengers and six crew aboard the Airbus A320 were safe and that the flight TR634 would resume its journey to Hat Yai in the evening.

Singapore has a near-perfect record of keeping its shores free of terror, but it has markedly stepped up efforts to deter militancy in recent years with more frequent attacks on Western countries and after Islamic State militants briefly took over a town in the southern Philippines last year.

Singapore’s defence minister said in a Facebook post that two F-15SG fighter jets had immediately responded to the threat when alerted by the pilot and escorted the plane from the South China Sea back to Changi airport.

“For our RSAF pilots who are on stand-by duties 24/7, every threat is considered real until proven otherwise,” said Ng Eng Hen.

A Scoot staff member at the airline’s check-in desk at Changi told Reuters that the incident had caused some delays to flights which had since been cleared up.

Related Topics:Bomb threat Fly scoot singapore

Aviation

Farnborough 2024: A Landmark Airshow Concludes with £81.5 Billion in Deals

As the 45th edition of the Farnborough International Airshow (FIA2024) concluded, it proved to be a tremendous success. The event, which ended yesterday, saw £81.5 billion worth of deals signed and 260 firm commercial aircraft orders placed within the first four days. For the UK alone, the deals announced amounted to £13 billion.

The Airbus A321XLR showcased an incredible aerial display at the airshow, becoming a centerpiece attraction. As Airbus’s latest addition to the market, the A321XLR aims to challenge the narrow-body aircraft segment with its extended range and innovative features. Additionally, Embraer impressed attendees with the E195-E2’s aerial display, highlighted by its striking black livery.

The ATR aircraft demonstrated its remarkable takeoff and landing capabilities, further showcasing its versatility. The Chinook helicopter also participated, displaying its impressive performance and ability to handle multi-level tasks, making it invaluable for defense and battlefield operations.

The show ended with an exhilarating final air display. The Starlings Aerobatic Team performed an impressive formation flight, while the Stampe Formation team showcased their vibrant heritage aircraft. The Royal Air Force’s F-35 flyover and the F-15QA’s powerful farewell flight added to the excitement. The British Army’s renowned Red Devils parachuted down, providing a spectacular closing to the event.

Day 2 Highlights: Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer Orders at Farnborough International Airshow 2024 : Click here

With this year’s orders finalized, the focus on the fifth and final day of FIA2024 shifted to inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, manufacturers, and innovators. We eagerly anticipate seeing everyone again at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026.

Airbus Expands Reach with Major Orders

Airbus has secured two significant deals that will expand its presence in the global market. The Abra Group, aiming to enhance its international long-haul operations, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for five A350-900 aircraft. Additionally, flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, strengthened its partnership with Airbus by signing an MoU for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900s.

Virgin Atlantic also made headlines by ordering seven additional A330neo aircraft. This order highlights the airline’s confidence in the A330neo’s performance and passenger comfort, as well as its commitment to sustainability. The advanced technology and fuel efficiency of the A330neo make it an ideal choice for Virgin Atlantic’s transatlantic operations, aligning with their goal of providing an enhanced and eco-friendly travel experience.

Embaer Aircraft

In a notable order, the Netherlands and Austria finalized a joint commitment for nine C-390 Millennium transport planes. Scheduled for delivery starting in late 2027, these aircraft will facilitate improved training and logistics collaboration among NATO partners. The C-390 Millennium continues to be a favored choice for European nations due to its exceptional performance and cost-effectiveness.

In the military aviation sector, Embraer announced a major order from the Paraguayan Air Force (FAP) for six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. This versatile, multi-mission aircraft will enhance the FAP’s capabilities in armed reconnaissance, close air support, light attack, and advanced training missions.

Boeing aircraft.

Boeing also had a notable presence on Day 2 of the airshow. Qatar Airways announced an order for 20 additional 777-9 airplanes, reinforcing its commitment to the 777X program. The 777-9, touted as the world’s largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet, is set to play a crucial role in Qatar Airways‘ long-haul fleet expansion, offering increased passenger capacity and improved fuel efficiency.

In a significant move for the leasing sector, Macquarie AirFinance announced its first direct order with Boeing, purchasing 20 737-8 aircraft. This order not only doubles Macquarie AirFinance’s existing 737-8 order book, acquired from ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Co.

De Havilland Aircraft orders

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited also made strides with several announcements. ANA Holdings signed a letter of intent for seven reconditioned DHC Dash 8-400s, which will be reconfigured to integrate seamlessly with ANA Group’s current fleet.

Additionally, Skyward Express ordered one Dash 8-400, while De Havilland confirmed the sale of two Dash 8-400s to Widerøe and one to the Tanzania Government Flight Agency (TGFA). De Havilland also announced a cargo conversion solution sale to Advantage Air, further expanding its portfolio and market reach.

#FIA2024 #farnboroughairshow #farnborough #airshow #airbus #boeing #airlines #airways #jetlinemarvel