The Hanoi-based carrier agreed to buy 50 737-8s, Boeing announced Wednesday.
Vietnam Airlines operates 17 787 Dreamliners but does not currently own any single-aisle Boeing aircraft.
The companies did not say when deliveries are expected to begin.
“The investment in 50 Boeing 737-8 aircraft marks a significant step in building a modern, fuel-efficient fleet while enhancing operational performance and elevating service standards to meet international benchmarks,” Vietnam Airlines Chairman Dang Ngoc Hoa said in a news release. “This agreement also deepens the long-standing strategic partnership between Vietnam Airlines and Boeing, creating a strong foundation for our ambition to become a five-star international airline by 2030.”
Integration of the 737 MAX is expected to help reduce costs while building capacity and supporting new routes, airline officials added, noting that Vietnam’s air traffic is expected to double to more than 75 million annual passengers over the next 10 years.
Vietnam Airlines mainly flies to destinations in East and South Asia. It serves one destination in the U.S., San Francisco.
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.
FAA, EASA Qualify Boeing 777-9 Flight Simulator
Regulators will have to approve courseware before pilot training can begin.
A Boeing 777X testbed aircraft. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
A flight simulator that will train airline pilots for an upcoming Boeing 777X variant is one step closer to final approval.
The FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency this week issued certificates for initial qualification for the device, which is being developed jointly by Boeing and flight simulator provider CAE. The simulator, which replicates the experience of flying a 777-9, will now be used by regulators to validate and approve training courseware before customer airlines begin pilot training.
“Securing these approvals is an important step as we prepare for the start of flight training,” Captain Gary Mandy, the 777X program’s chief technical pilot, said in a news release. “Pilots will benefit from an immersive training experience that will help ensure our customers’ operational readiness for the 777-9.”
The training devices are located at the Boeing Training Campus in Gatwick, England.
Boeing said the 777-9’s flight deck was designed for both comfort and commonality with the 787 Dreamliner. It features large-format displays with touchscreen capability; the option for dual head-up displays, similar to the 787; a redesigned pilot seat; a control and indicator for the 777X’s folding wingtips that highlights whether wingtips are extended, in motion, or folded; and integration of portable tablet-based Electronic Flight Bag capability.
The 777X series has been delayed numerous times, mainly over technical issues. But flight testing is again underway, and Boeing expects the first flight of a production 777X to take place in April.
The 777-9 will be the first 777X variant delivered to customers. Boeing is targeting early 2027 for deliveries to Lufthansa, the type’s launch client.
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.
American Picks LEAP Engines for Future A321neo Deliveries
The carrier already uses CFM engines on its in-service A321neos, as well as on the A321XLR and Boeing 737 MAX.
The carrier announced Thursday that CFM powerplants will be installed on the 85 A321neos it ordered in early 2024.
American already uses LEAP engines on its in-service A321neos, as well as on the A321XLR and Boeing 737 MAX.
“American is proud to operate more CFM/GE Aerospace-powered mainline and regional aircraft than any other airline in the world, and American’s aircraft have flown with GE Aerospace technology for almost a century,” American CEO Robert Isom said in a news release. “We are excited that CFM LEAP engines will power our next phase of A321neo deliveries, maximizing the power of our fleet investments to deliver the best network to our customers utilizing the best-performing engine in the business.”
CFM will continue to provide long-term maintenance for American’s LEAP-1A engines, officials said.
Financial terms of the engine order and maintenance agreement were not disclosed.
A321neo operators have two options to power the aircraft – the LEAP-1A and Pratt and Whitney’s PW1000G.
American has options for 116 additional A320-family aircraft, and if exercised, those jets would also be outfitted with LEAP engines, officials said.
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.
Israel to Add Another International Airport
Officials approved construction in the southern Negev region.
Ben Gurion International Airport. (Photo: Shutterstock | Dmitry Pistrov)
The government of Israel has approved the construction of another international airport.
According to The Jerusalem Post, officials on Sunday greenlighted the project in the Ziklag area, in Israel’s southern Negev region.
The new facility will be developed at the same time as a new international airport being built in the north of Israel. That site is being developed in Ramat David.
The government intends to accelerate planning for the Ziklag airport, so that construction can take place at the same time as the airport in the north.
Building an international airport in Ziklag was originally rejected by authorities due to its proximity to the border with Gaza. It was thought that commercial flight paths could possibly interfere with flight paths used by Israel’s Air Force.
However, defense officials have since concluded that the risk was not enough to justify halting the project.
Dealing with Congestion
The Israeli government is looking to relieve congestion at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport, which is the country’s main international airport.
Ben Gurion is fast approaching its maximum capacity of around 40 million passengers per year.
In addition, the development of the two new airports will be a catalyst for economic growth, officials said.
Lorne is a South Africa-based aviation journalist. He was captivated and fascinated by flying from the day he took his first airline flight. With a passion for aviation in his blood, he has flown to destinations in all corners of the globe. Lorne has traveled extensively and lived in various countries. Drawing on his travels and passion for aviation, Lorne enjoys writing about airlines, routes, networks, and new developments.
JetBlue Flight Reports Engine Failure, Returns to Airport
A ground stop was issued for Newark, New Jersey, and later lifted.
A JetBlue Airbus A321. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
A JetBlue flight departing Newark, New Jersey, was forced to turn around and return to the airport Wednesday evening after experiencing engine failure.
Local media reported that the flight took off around 5:45 p.m. bound for West Palm Beach, Florida, and returned safely with no injuries.
According to the FAA, once the airplane landed, crew reported smoke in the cockpit and evacuated passengers using inflatable slides.
Flights at Newark were temporarily stopped due to the incident, but the airport had reopened as of 7:10 p.m., according to CBS News.
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.
Allegiant Plans Dolly Parton-Themed Flight to Knoxville
The carrier is partnering with the singer’s theme park, Dollywood.
An Allegiant 737 MAX at Boeing Field. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Katie Zera)
Allegiant is planning a special one-off flight for Dolly Parton fans.
The low-cost airline on Tuesday announced Flight 925, which will connect Orlando Sanford International Airport in Florida with Knoxville, Tennessee, the home of Parton’s theme park, Dollywood. Allegiant connects the two cities seasonally, but Flight 925 will take place outside the carrier’s usual schedule, on Nov. 6.
The flight’s numbering is a reference to Parton’s hit song “9 to 5.”
Allegiant said it is partnering with Dollywood to offer Flight 925 passengers unique, themed experiences at the gate in Sanford, during the trip, and at the park the following day. These include treats and drinks, exclusive merchandise, complimentary ride time opportunities, and reserved show seating.
The connection was timed to coincide with Dollywood’s famous Smoky Mountain Christmas festival.
“Flight 925 is all about embracing the joy of travel,” Drew Wells, Allegiant’s chief commercial officer, said in a news release. “Partnering with Dollywood Parks and Resorts allows us to deliver a unique experience that reflects the best of both brands: great value, unforgettable moments, and the chance to create memories from the second you step on board.”
More details about the experience will be provided in the coming months, Allegiant said.
Dollywood, which is located in Pigeon Forge, is the most popular ticketed attraction in Tennessee.
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.
Delta Flight Returns to Airport After Passenger Disturbance
Police were waiting at the gate and detained the suspect.
A Delta Boeing 717. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
A Delta flight was forced to return to Houston Hobby early Wednesday morning after a passenger allegedly attempted to force their way into the cockpit.
Houston police said they received a call around 5:30 a.m. local time about a disturbance on the flight, which had just taken off for Atlanta. Officers went to Gate 32 at the airport and detained the passenger when the flight returned.
KHOU-TV in Houston was first to report the incident. The station’s camera crew observed a man being led out of the airport in handcuffs shortly after the flight returned but could not confirm if it was the person who caused the disturbance.
It was not immediately clear what charges the suspect is facing, if any.
CNN reported Wednesday that a pilot told air traffic controllers that the individual got up from their seat and attempted to “access the cockpit.”
But Delta appeared to refute that detail, saying in a statement that the passenger exhibited “unruly and unlawful behavior toward other customers” but did not get near or attempt to enter the flight deck.
The airline said the incident happened on board a Boeing 717 carrying 85 passengers and five crew.
“The safety of our customers and crew is paramount, and Delta has zero tolerance for unruly behavior,” the carrier added. “We apologize to our customers for this experience and delay in their travels.”
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.
Porter Adds New U.S. Destination
The carrier is also expanding service to a major Midwest city.
Porter does not currently serve any destinations in Texas.
The airline is also changing operations in Chicago. Porter has connected Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport with Midway since 2008, but on Sept. 1, it will switch to O’Hare and increase flights to three times daily.
Officials said the change will give passengers access to more connecting flights with partner carriers.
“Porter continues to offer more destinations and flights that complement existing schedules and connect travelers across North America through our hubs,” Andrew Pierce, Porter’s vice president of network planning and reporting, said in a news release. “Travelers want more options and, when flying with Porter, they receive an elevated level of care and service that makes getting there enjoyable and something to look forward to.”
Porter is also starting a new seasonal route within Canada, between Ottawa and Deer Lake. Flights start June 10 and will operate five times weekly.
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 Resumes Texas Route
The carrier continues to expand its domestic network with another route addition.
A JetBlue A320 aircraft. (Photo: Shutterstock | Markus Mainka)
JetBlue has announced a returning domestic route that will launch later this spring as part of the carrier’s ongoing network adjustments.
The airline will once again offer nonstop service between Houston and New York-JFK starting on May 21, 2026. The route will be operated twice daily.
Flights will be operated using Airbus A320 aircraft. JetBlue last served this market in February 2025 and has continued to connect Houston with its Boston hub.
JetBlue will go head-to-head with Delta, which also links Houston and New York-JFK.
“Houston is an important destination for many travelers, and we’re pleased to reintroduce nonstop service between JFK and Houston, giving our customers a convenient connection between these two major metropolitan areas,” said Dave Jehn, vice president, network planning and airline partnerships at JetBlue, in a news release. “With twice-daily flights, we’re offering a schedule that works well for same-day trips, longer stays, and easy connections across our network.”
Tickets for the new route are now available for purchase.
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.
TSB investigators examining the wreckage of Endeavor Air/Delta Connection Flight 4819 at Toronto Pearson International Airport (Photo: Transportation Safety Board of Canada)
Although the update from the TSB provides few substantive details on the findings of the investigation, it details the work that investigators have been undertaking over the past year since the accident.
After the wreckage was brought to a hangar at the airport, key parts like the right wing (which detached after the aircraft landed), landing gear, and wing box structure were sent for further testing at the TSB’s Engineering Laboratory in Canada’s capital city of Ottawa. Analysis of the results of a metallurgical examination of the fracture surfaces on the wing and landing gear is currently underway.
Other pieces of key data have also been analyzed or reviewed, including data from onboard recorders, air traffic control systems, meteorological conditions, and the airport’s closed-circuit television systems. Investigators also attended Endeavor Air’s training facility to conduct similar exercises.
Once the TSB completes its analysis, it will draft a report and send it to key stakeholders. These parties have the opportunity to dispute or correct information before the board publishes a final report to the public.
The Endeavor Air/Delta Connection Flight 4819 CRJ-900 aircraft resting at the GTAA hangar at Toronto Pearson International Airport (Photo: Transportation Safety Board of Canada)
February 2025 Accident Details
The accident occurred on February 17, 2025, when the CRJ-900 aircraft, operating as a Delta Connection flight from Minneapolis-St. Paul crashed upon landing. The right wing detached, and the aircraft flipped over. All 80 passengers and crew survived and were successfully evacuated from the aircraft, but 21 people were injured.
The TSB released a preliminary report in March of 2025, indicating that the aircraft had a “high rate of descent” of 1,110 feet per minute and a 7.1-degree right bank angle just before touchdown. According to the report, the right-side landing gear assembly fractured and folded, and the right wing detached, releasing jet fuel that caught fire. The aircraft slid down the runway and rolled to the right until it became inverted, stopping on an intersecting runway.
Andrew is a lifelong lover of aviation and travel. He has flown all over the world and is fascinated by the workings of the air travel industry. As a private pilot and glider pilot who has worked with airlines, airports and other industry stakeholders, he is always excited to share his passion for aviation with others. In addition to being a writer, he also hosts Flying Smarter, an educational travel podcast that explores the complex world of air travel to help listeners become better-informed and savvier travelers.
