Renderings of new San Antonio airport terminal (Photo: Corgan — Lake|Flat)
Global design firm Corgan is helping to design a new 900,000 square foot terminal at the San Antonio International Airport.
According to a news release emailed to AirlineGeeks from Corgan, the company has partnered with San Antonio-based architectural firm Lake Flato Architects to join Terminals A and B at the airport with a brand new Terminal C.
Construction work began for the new terminal in December 2024. A news release from the San Antonio’s municipal government at the time explained that the new terminal is part of a Terminal Development Program (TDP) to improve airport infrastructure over the next 20 years.
“TDP is the cornerstone of Elevate/SAT, a $2.5 billion expansion and capital improvements plan that will improve and enhance SAT, the customer experience and the San Antonio region,” the city’s release stated. “Elevate/SAT is the largest capital improvement plan that the City of San Antonio has undertaken.”
San Antonio new terminal renderings (Photo: Corgan)
Corgan stated that the project includes a ground transportation center, parking garage, central utility plant, and terminal roadway alignment. Terminal C will have 17 gates and is expected to be completed in 2028.
The new terminal’s design includes natural materials and warm earth tones to reflect the region’s landscape.
“Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a 60-foot garden, reminiscent of the shaded Cypress paseos and covered bridges of the Riverwalk,” Corgan’s release stated. “Great hovering shed roofs shelter the three great rooms of Terminal C: ticketing, the Gateway Terminal, and the Mercado Food and Retail Hall.”
As the master architect on the project, Corgan will collaborate with Lake Flato to provide programming, planning, schematic design and design development, among other duties.
The SAT expansion joins several other recent airport expansion and remodel projects designed by Corgan. Notably, the firm has been working on a unique concourse widening project at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport using modular construction to keep flights moving.
AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.
Many commuter flights only are operated by a single pilot. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Fangzhong Guo)
A headset is one of the most essential pieces of equipment an airline pilot can invest in. Whether you want to improve communication clarity, filter out background noise, protect your hearing, or enhance your comfort level, we have assembled a list of headsets curated explicitly for airline pilots. Let’s explore which one can meet your unique needs.
Please note that each airline may have its own specifications regarding headset standards. Therefore, you should always check with your base administrative office for approval before purchasing equipment required for flight, including a headset.
Quick Look: 6 Best Aviation Headsets for Airline Pilots
Let’s examine the best aviation headsets for airline pilots.
Bose A30 Aviation Headset
Best for: Overall headset for airline pilots
Bose A30 Aviation Headset [Courtesy: Sporty’s]One of the top competitors in the aviation headset market is the Bose A30 Aviation Headset. This next-generation headset is an upgrade from the previous A20 model and has been refined using user reviews to make this the best version yet. The A30 upgrades include a reduction in weight, less clamping force, and an overall increase in comfort. This active noise-cancelling headset features Bluetooth connectivity and has received rave reviews in various aircraft types.
Key Features and Specifications
Active noise reduction: Yes
TSO-approved: Yes
Weight: 15 ounces
Warranty: 5 years
Additional features: 20% less clamping force than the A20; contoured fabric headband pad; tap control for talk-through; side-swapping microphone; thinner and lighter cable; dual volume controls; three ANR modes; Bluetooth volume control; prioritization option; 3.5mm auxiliary input for external audio source
Bose Proflight Series 2 Aviation Headset [Courtesy: Amazon]The Bose ProFlight Series 2 Aviation Headset is explicitly designed for airline flight decks and features noise reduction, comfort, and advanced audio features. It weighs just five ounces and uses comfortable silicone ear tips to eliminate side pressure. It still features digital active noise reduction, Bluetooth connectivity, and famous Bose audio quality.
Key Features and Specifications
Active noise reduction: Yes
TSO-approved: Yes
Weight: 5 ounces
Warranty: 5 years
Additional features: Smallest, lightest, most comfortable headset from Bose; digital active noise cancellation; active equalization; electret noise-cancelling mic; three user-selectable levels of noise cancellation; Bluetooth phone and audio connection; audio prioritization
Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset [Courtesy: Sporty’s]The Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset is an excellent choice for airline pilots. It introduces a new class of aviation headsets by combining advanced noise reduction technology with life-saving carbon monoxide alerts. The Delta Zulu may be the smartest headset available to airline pilots today, featuring customizable audio profiles and comprehensive Bluetooth support.
Key Features and Specifications
Active noise reduction: Yes
TSO-approved: No
Weight: 14.9 ounces
Warranty: 7 years
Additional features: Carbon monoxide detector; hearing EQity; stainless steel headband and magnesium ear cups; Bluetooth audio and communications interface; durable cables; dual volume controls; COM priority; removable battery pack
David Clark DC ONE-X Headset [Courtesy: Sporty’s]The David Clark brand is among the most iconic names in the aviation headset market. The company markets its David Clark DC ONE-X Headset as a hybrid electronic noise-cancelling headset that provides active noise cancellation. The headset is Bluetooth-enabled to connect to cell phones and music players and is equipped with a plush, around-the-ear leatherette ear seal designed to reduce heat buildup. One of the best features of the headset is that it folds up to fit in the palm of your hand, making it ideal for professional pilots.
Key Features and Specifications
Active noise reduction: Yes
TSO-approved: Yes
Weight: 12.3 ounces
Warranty: 5 years
Additional features: Sleek, low-profile design; Bluetooth technology; full-size leatherette ear seals; over-the-ear design; M-55 electret microphone; lightweight alloy headband; compact storage when collapsed; includes David Clark headset case; uses 2 AA batteries
Telex Airman ANR 850 Headset [Courtesy: Sporty’s]The Telex Airman ANR 850 Headset is an affordable and comfortable option for airline pilots that builds on the tradition of the Telex Airman 750 Headset ($289.95), the most popular lightweight headset in the world. This compact and lightweight headset is the standard headset equipped on some commercial carriers. The earphones are mounted on a stainless steel sliding bar with virtually no clamping pressure for the user, and the open-air earphones are great for heat reduction.
Key Features and Specifications
Active noise reduction: Yes
TSO-approved: Yes
Weight: 4 ounces
Warranty: 3 years
Additional features: Adds up to 12dB of active noise reduction; amplified electret mic with fully flexible boom; larger ear cushions; hassle-free ANR without batteries; set and forget volume control; folding design; uses standard PJ plugs
Disadvantages
Users have reported the noise cancellation of the Telex Airman ANR 850 Headset is not as effective as other premium aviation headsets.
Price: $499
Clarity Aloft Pro Plus Headset
Best for: Lightweight headset for airline pilots
Clarity Aloft Pro Plus Headset [Courtesy: Sporty’s]For the ultimate lightweight option, the Clarity Aloft Pro Plus Headset brings passive noise-cancelling to another level, building on the acclaimed performance of the original Clarity Aloft Headset ($575.00). Clarity achieves this through its patented Comply Canal Tip earplugs, which provide a tight seal that prevents noise from getting in but are loose enough not to hurt the pilot’s ears. Weighing only 1.5 ounces, this headset is ideal for long flights and work trips.
Key Features and Specifications
Active noise reduction: Yes
TSO-approved: Yes
Weight: 1.5 ounces
Warranty: 3 years
Additional features: Professional grade and flexible microphone; low profile and flexible stainless steel headband; Comply Canal Tip earplugs; tiny speakers and electret microphone; uses standard PJ plugs
Things to Consider When Shopping for an Aviation Headset
Let’s explore what to consider when shopping for an aviation headset as an airline pilot.
Noise reduction
One key factor when choosing a headset for an airline pilot is its noise-cancelling capabilities. Most headsets feature Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) technology as the standard. ANC is a straightforward technology that uses a microphone to detect ambient noise. The headset analyzes these sound waves and emits opposing waves to prevent incoming sounds from reaching the eardrum. Effective noise reduction is crucial for minimizing fatigue and enhancing overall communication clarity in the flight deck.
Comfort and fit
Another factor to consider when shopping for a headset is the fit and comfort level offered by the device. Lightweight headsets minimize neck strain during long flights, while ergonomic headband designs ensure proper pressure distribution. An adjustable headband provides a secure and comfortable fit for various head sizes. When selecting ear cups, it is crucial to consider material breathability and seal design.
Audio quality and communication
Audio quality and communication are also crucial factors when choosing a headset. Microphone clarity is essential for voice transmissions with ATC and internal crew communications, while speaker quality guarantees clear reception of radio transmissions and intercom.
Durability and reliability
Durability and reliability are additional factors to consider when shopping for a headset. The build quality, materials, and overall construction are crucial for the device’s longevity. The manufacturer’s warranty is also an essential aspect to consider, as it guarantees support from the manufacturer in case of equipment malfunction or failure.
Connectivity and additional features
Connectivity and additional features are also critical when selecting an aviation headset. Bluetooth connectivity is essential for integrating personal devices and electronic flight bags (EFBs). Additionally, some headsets have adjustable noise cancellation levels, while others offer battery-saving features like automatic shut-off.
A reliable headset is crucial for maintaining clear and reliable communication in the fast-paced, high-risk aviation environment. Let’s add one of these aviation headsets to your virtual cart today!
FAQ
Why is a good aviation headset essential for airline pilots?
A good aviation headset is essential for airline pilots to improve communication clarity, filter out background noise, protect their hearing, and enhance their comfort level.
What are the key differences between aviation headsets and regular headphones?
The key differences between aviation headsets and regular headsets include:
Type of noise cancellation, as aviation headsets are designed with active noise cancellation
Microphone quality and design, as aviation headsets come with boom microphones designed for clear communication
Durability and build, as aviation headsets are designed to withstand long hours of wear and extreme environments
Comfort for extended use, as aviation headsets are designed with thicker ear seals, adjustable bands, and lightweight materials
Price and technology, as aviation headsets are more expensive due to their specialized technology and certification requirements
Do airlines provide headsets, or do pilots typically buy their own?
While airlines typically provide headsets within their aircraft flight decks, many professional pilots invest in their own premium aviation headsets for better quality and comfort.
What is the typical lifespan of an aviation headset for an airline pilot?
A well-maintained, high-quality aviation headset can last well over a decade; however, with frequent technological improvements, pilots often choose to replace their headset every 5 to 10 years.
Are there any specific regulations or certifications (like TSO) that airline pilot headsets must meet?
Specific pilot headset policies vary by airline. Some airlines require a TSO-approved headset to be available in the cockpit; however, pilots may use any personal headsets during operations. Other airlines explicitly mandate the use of TSO-approved headsets for all communications. If you have questions about your airline’s policy, check with your base administrative office for approval before purchasing a headset.
AirlineGeeks may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.
An American 787-9 (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
American received its first new widebody aircraft delivery since 2023, after months of delays. Two 787-9 Dreamliners were ferried to the carrier’s Dallas/Fort Worth hub on Tuesday.
In 2024, the Fort Worth, Texas-based airline planned to take delivery of six 787 aircraft, but ongoing delays at Boeing pushed these aircraft into 2025. This aircraft, registered as N845MD and N846AN – are the airline’s first new 787-9 variants in six years.
N846AN was delivered from Boeing’s Everett, Washington, facility, while N845MD was received in North Charleston, South Carolina.
We are proud to announce that yesterday we received the first two @Boeing 787-9s with our new Flagship® Suite seats and interior design. Our new suites feature privacy doors, with more personal storage space and one-of-a-kind chaise lounge seating options. This new premium… pic.twitter.com/l1ytge9Q8Q
With these two additions, American now has 24 787-9 aircraft in its fleet. The airline also has 37 787-8s in active service, per Cirium Fleet Analyzer data, with the last delivery of this variant taking place in 2023.
Premium-Heavy
With these new 787-9 deliveries, American is also planning to roll out a new business class product. This new configuration features a significant increase in premium seating capacity compared to the airline’s existing 787-9s.
The new 787-9s will be equipped with 51 business class suites, a notable increase from the previous 30 seats, along with 32 premium economy seats, up from 21.
The new business class suites are branded as Flagship Suites. These suites include a privacy door and a lie-flat seat configuration. Select seats in the bulkhead row will be designated as “Flagship Suite Preferred Seats” and will come with additional amenities and extra space.
A rendering of American’s new Flagship Suite premium cabin (Photo: American Airlines)
American’s existing Boeing 777-300ER fleet and yet-to-be-delivered Airbus A321XLRs will also be retrofitted with the new premium product. The airline hasn’t announced routes for the A321XLR or new 787-9 aircraft.
This year, the carrier expects to take delivery of eight Dreamliners. So far in 2025, it has received around 10 narrowbody A321neo and 737 MAX aircraft.
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
Trainees experience Envoy's VR training program. (Photo: Envoy)
Texas-based Envoy Air is breaking new ground with a high-tech system for training its pilots.
The company is the first Part 121 carrier in the U.S. to receive Federal Aviation Administration approval to incorporate virtual reality into its training programs. At Envoy’s headquarters outside Dallas, classes of pilots will soon be using VR headsets and joysticks to practice different aspects of their job without setting foot on or near an actual aircraft. The system is meant to be used alongside other pilot training tools, including flight simulators.
Captain Allen Hill, director of flight training at Envoy, said pilots who have already worked with the program give it high marks.
“Both junior and senior aviators take to it very well,” he said. “It helps them gain proficiency in a shorter period of time.”
The company spent several years looking for a VR vendor before landing on Cole Engineering Services in Orlando, Florida. The partners worked together to create an Envoy-specific mixed-reality program, then ran test classes to see how potential trainees would react.
“Most of the kids that are used to online gaming, if you explain it, they immediately understand and can begin to maneuver in the environment pretty quickly,” Hill said. “The older aviators maybe take about 10 to 15 minutes to get used to it and then they start to move around pretty quickly too.”
Envoy is currently training the instructors on how to use and teach the software. Once that process is completed, classes of 24 trainees each will begin.
An Envoy Air E175 aircraft (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
Building Skills
The VR module helps replicate the experience of a preflight “walkaround,” in which pilots visually inspect an aircraft prior to departure. The simulated environment allows pilots to examine and call out potential problems or points of concern without looking at any real damage. The software also lets users run through flight deck procedures and checklists as if they were readying for a real flight.
Aircraft maintenance technicians will also use the program.. One course allows them to simulate changing an airplane tire.
And while the headsets and joysticks will stay at the carrier’s headquarters, trainees will be able to use a 2-D version of the program on their personal devices, allowing them to keep practicing and building their skillset anywhere at their own convenience.
Asked about future applications for VR in training and elsewhere, Hill said the company is keeping an open mind and may find new uses for the technology.
“I think we’re only limited by our imagination,” he said.
Virtual reality has been making significant inroads in the aviation sector in recent years. In 2024 the FAA certified a VR flight simulator made by Loft Dynamics, allowing helicopter pilots to use it to train and receive credit toward official pilot ratings. Alaska Airlines is now adopting this technology for its 737 fleet.
Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of commercial aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
JetBlue Hints at New Airline Partnership
A new partnership announcement could come as early as the second quarter, airline leadership said during Tuesday's earnings call.
On Monday, American said its latest talks over a partnership with JetBlue fell through due to “different business priorities.” Now, American is suing the New York-based airline for over $1 million, alleging that JetBlue owes unpaid fees.
JetBlue President Marty St. George confirmed Tuesday that a new partnership would be with another U.S. airline. He noted that JetBlue already has nearly 50 partnerships with international airlines.
“Furthermore, we have made good progress on discussions regarding a domestic airline partnership …,” he added.
For customers, St. George said the biggest benefit is a “significantly higher network opportunity” for JetBlue TrueBlue members.
“And that means, for example, today if you are a customer in the Northeast and you love JetBlue for leisure, but twice a year you have to go to Omaha or Boise, these are places that you can’t earn TrueBlue points on now,” St. George continued.
An announcement could come as early as the second quarter.
St. George added: “When this partnership goes forward … I’m really excited for just the overall broadening of the network opportunities, not just connectivity, but also just sort of better opportunities for our customers to fly more places with more frequency.”
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
A Qatar Airways Boeing 777-300ER. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
As several airlines report drops in demand for U.S. travel, Qatar Airways is painting a different picture. In a recent Qatar Economic Forum interview at Hamad International Airport, Qatar CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer shared insights on the airline’s performance, strategy, and plans amid global economic uncertainties.
Al Meer acknowledged the impact of recent tariffs on Qatar’s operations, particularly in the supply chain and cargo sectors.
“We have gone through a lot at Qatar Airways, and we have proven over and over that we are a resilient airline,” he said.
Even with these challenges, he reported strong passenger demand across the network, especially in the United States. Al Meer noted that Qatar is seeing load factors of 86%-87% on U.S. routes, with April showing historically high demand.
“It’s the contrary in our case … But we see very high demand all over our network, especially in the United States,” he said. “And we can see this continuing in May and in June. So we are not experiencing this lower interest.”
Record-Breaking Profits
Al Meer also shared that the carrier is set to announce record-breaking profits in the coming weeks. He stated, “Last year, [we saw] record-breaking profit for Qatar Airways. This year, we will break our record again, but not by a small margin. I’m not talking about 1 to 5%, but much higher than this.”
The airline continues to expand its fleet with ongoing deliveries of Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. Al Meer also mentioned upcoming deliveries of A321neos and expectations for the yet-to-be-certified Boeing 777X in late 2026 or early 2027.
A significant announcement regarding a new widebody aircraft order is expected in the coming weeks. Al Meer stated that the airline is evaluating offers from both Boeing and Airbus, with a decision to be made soon.
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
American filed a lawsuit against JetBlue for over $1 million after the airline acknowledged new tie-up talks that halted due to "different business priorities."
American and JetBlue aircraft in New York (Photo: Shutterstock | EQRoy)
American Airlines has filed a lawsuit against JetBlue, seeking to recover funds it claims are owed following the termination of the carriers’ Northeast Alliance (NEA) partnership last year.
The lawsuit, filed in the Business Court of Texas in Tarrant County on Monday, alleges that JetBlue has failed to pay American for its contributions to the NEA between April 1, 2022, and July 18, 2023. American is seeking over $1 million in damages, plus interest and attorneys’ fees.
At the core of the dispute is the Mutual Growth Incentive Agreement (MGIA), a revenue-sharing arrangement that was part of the broader NEA partnership. Under the MGIA, the airlines agreed to share incremental revenue generated by the alliance based on each carrier’s capacity contribution at key Northeast airports.
Unpaid Fees
American claims it provided JetBlue with monthly reports and a final invoice detailing the amounts due under the MGIA’s reconciliation process. Despite these efforts, American alleges that JetBlue has refused to pay the outstanding balance.
“And despite American’s good faith efforts to resolve the parties’ dispute, JetBlue continues to ignore its contractual obligations,” the lawsuit states.
An American 777 and JetBlue A320 (Photo: Shutterstock | NYC Russ)
In its lawsuit, American argues that JetBlue’s refusal to pay violates the terms of their agreement. The airline is seeking to recover the amount due under the MGIA, as well as related damages resulting from JetBlue’s alleged non-payment.
‘Different Business Priorities’
This legal action comes amid reports that the two carriers had recently explored renewing their partnership. In an internal memo to employees, American’s vice chair and chief strategy officer, Steve Johnson, acknowledged these discussions.
He elaborates on the discussions with JetBlue, noting, “Although we proposed a very attractive proposition to JetBlue and its customers and team, it became clear over time that JetBlue was focused on different business priorities.”
Johnson added that despite their efforts to renew the partnership, the two airlines could not agree on terms that were operationally or financially feasible for American.
“We filed a lawsuit against JetBlue today to recover money owed to American following the unwinding of the Northeast Alliance. We understandably tabled this claim while we were in discussions with JetBlue, but now that those conversations have concluded, we need to address the accounting and reconciliation following the termination of the NEA,” he concluded.
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
A Finnair A350 takes off.
(Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
Finnair plans to furlough almost 40 long-haul pilots amid a labor dispute that prompted partner Qantas to cut back on a long-term lease deal.
The Finnish flag carrier said 36 pilots will be furloughed by the end of September until at least May 2026. It laid the blame squarely on an “ongoing industrial action” by the Finnish airline pilots’ union, which it says has undercut its ability to operate routes on behalf of Qantas.
“The situation is unfortunate for all parties,” said Finnair COO Jaakko Schildt.
The dispute stems from negotiations between Finnair and the pilots’ association over the terms of a new contract. While talks continue, the union has put a ban on overtime and shift swaps and carried out periodic work stoppages.
A particular point of contention is standby duty, in which a pilot must be available and ready to fly on short notice. Finnair wants standby duty written into the contract, a demand the union rejects.
Difficult to Navigate
The disruptions have sometimes caused delays in Finnair pilots reaching the Qantas flights they are supposed to operate under the terms of the carriers’ “wet lease.”
A wet lease is an arrangement in which a carrier provides an aircraft and crew to operate flights on behalf of another airline, with the lessee paying certain costs. They are often used by airlines to meet periods of particularly high demand.
Finnair’s deal with Qantas, established in 2023, provides two Finnair Airbus A330 aircraft to fly routes between Sydney and Singapore and Bangkok. The flights are staffed by Qantas except for the pilots, who work for Finnair. The arrangement is supposed to continue until at least 2027.
In its statement, Finnair said its “collaboration” had recently been cut from two routes to one.
In February, the airline warned that continued disruptions could sink its entire deal with Qantas and cost a total of 90 pilots their jobs.
Finnair’s decision to lease aircraft and pilots to Qantas has been seen as an effort to bolster revenue while Russian airspace remains closed to Western carriers. Finland shares a border with Russia, and Finnair has been forced to scrap some Asia-bound flights because of the logistical difficulty of navigating around its massive neighbor. Asia-bound flights that have continued are now much longer, burn more fuel, and put increased demands on pilots and crew.
Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of commercial aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
Southwest Shrinks Turn Times at 19 Airports
In a September Investor Day presentation, the airline shared that its average turnaround time was 49 minutes, the shortest of any major U.S. carrier.
A Southwest 737. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
Southwest said last week it has cut five minutes from turnaround times at 19 airports. The carrier first announced this initiative in September.
In 2025, the airline plans to ramp up capacity by 1% to 2%, all by reducing turnaround times and implementing redeye flights.
“Reducing turn time generates more flying from each aircraft, increasing our capital efficiency, and unlike normal utilization increases, which typically extend the day earlier and later, this does not increase the operating day so it is favorable to RASM and CASM,” Southwest’s chief operating officer, Andrew Watterson, said during the carrier’s first-quarter earnings call.
Shake-Ups at Key Stations
As part of this initiative, Southwest is removing five minutes of turn time from each flight. Of the 19 airports already seeing this change, the airline’s “mega stations” – including Dallas and Nashville, Tennessee – are also included.
In a September Investor Day presentation, the airline shared that its average turnaround time was 49 minutes, the shortest of any major U.S. carrier. It hopes to bring this down to roughly 44 minutes, freeing up the equivalent of approximately 16 aircraft.
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
A JetBlue Airbus A220. (Photo: Shutterstock | Markus Mainka)
Less than two months before launch, JetBlue is abandoning plans to serve one of its newest destinations. A spokesperson from the airline says this move is in response to “softer-than-expected travel demand.”
The New York-based airline will no longer serve Halifax, Nova Scotia, this summer. This route – from the carrier’s Boston hub – was scheduled to begin on June 26, operating once per day.
“While we were excited to launch summer seasonal service to Halifax, we are pausing our entrance into the market because bookings have not met expectations,” the spokesperson added. This is one of the necessary steps we are taking to manage our business through softer-than-expected travel demand this year and economic uncertainty.”
JetBlue’s service to Halifax was first announced in January.
The spokesperson shared that the airline will evaluate this route in the future. Passengers booked on these flights will receive a full refund.
In another statement, a spokesperson from the Halifax International Airport Authority said the news of JetBlue’s change in plans was “disappointing.”
“The current tariff environment and its impact on Canadian travel to the U.S. have created a challenging time for introducing a new U.S. carrier to the market,” the spokesperson added. “As a result, JetBlue will postpone its launch until next summer. We look forward to welcoming them to Halifax in 2026.”
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
