Aerospace

Virgin Galactic announces start of commercial spaceflight service

A commercial space flight service has officially begun, according to Virgin Galactic. Galactic 01’s first commercial revenue-generating mission flight window opens on June 27, 2023, with options to fly through June 30.

Virgin Galactic unveils new spaceship 2 ..!(Opens in a new browser tab)

After completing the Unity 25 voyage, as well as any necessary follow-up studies and vehicle inspections, Virgin Galactic’s crew and vehicles are prepared to launch their first paying clients into space. Three crew members from the Italian Air Force and the National Research Council of Italy will travel on Galactic 01 to undertake microgravity research. The value and strength of Virgin Galactic’s special suborbital science lab will be demonstrated by carrying scientific payloads on its first-ever commercial mission.

Virgin Galactic’s Richard Branson says he will be in space in six months(Opens in a new browser tab)

According to Virgin Galactic CEO Michael Colglazier, “We are launching the first commercial spaceline for Earth with two dynamic products – our scientific research and private astronaut space missions.” “Innovation, tenacity, and a dedication to providing an unequaled and genuinely transformative customer experience have driven this next exciting chapter for Virgin Galactic,” the company said.

The second commercial spaceflight, ‘Galactic 02,’ will follow in early August 2023, with monthly spaceflights expected by Virgin Galactic thereafter.

.@VirginGalactic announces the start of commercial spaceflight service with #Galactic01 flight this month. A huge well done to the team, so excited for our astronauts to inspire more people to look to the stars. https://t.co/MDJjwKQj74 pic.twitter.com/9NtxSdDJMo
— Richard Branson (@richardbranson) June 15, 2023

Livestreams for Galactic 01 and Galactic 02 will be available on virgingalactic.com, and information regarding the crew and manifest for the inaugural flights will be made public ahead of each voyage.

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.