Civil Aviation Archives - Aviation Today

Union Strike Disrupts Kenya’s Main Airport For Two Days Before Return-To-Work Deal

Aviation Today News Desk February 18, 2026

Nairobi, Kenya: A strike by aviation workers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya’s largest and busiest aviation hub that began

beOnd Signs LOI To Launch Bahrain Airline, Projects 1,200 Jobs And $1.5B Boost

Aviation Today News Desk February 17, 2026

Manama, Bahrain: beOnd, a premium leisure airline, has taken a significant step toward expanding its global footprint with a plan to

DGCA Fines Air India ₹1 Crore For Flying A320 Eight Times Without Valid ARC Permit

Aviation Today News Desk February 16, 2026

Delhi, India: India’s civil aviation regulator has penalised Air India with a $110,350 (about ₹1 crore) fine after an Airbus A320

Frankfurt, Germany: Germany’s flagship carrier Lufthansa was forced to cancel nearly 800 flights on Thursday after pilots and cabin crew staged coordinated industrial action, disrupting travel for around 100,000 passengers . The 24-hour strike began shortly after midnight on Thursday, February 12, and affected most Lufthansa-operated services, particularly at its main hubs in Frankfurt and Munich, where departure boards showed widespread cancellations throughout the day. According to multiple industry reports, Lufthansa removed approximately 800 flights from its schedule, representing more than half of its planned daily operations. The airline said the walkout caused significant disruption to both short-haul and long-haul services, including intercontinental departures. Lufthansa confirmed that about 100,000 passengers were impacted by the cancellations. The airline implemented large-scale rebooking measures, transferring travellers to partner airlines within the Lufthansa Group including Swiss, Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines as well as offering rail alternatives within Germany in cooperation with Deutsche Bahn. Passengers were advised not to travel to the airport unless they had received confirmation that their flight was operating. Lufthansa also stated that customers whose flights were cancelled were eligible for full refunds or rebooking at no extra cost. Under European passenger rights rules, affected travellers may also be entitled to compensation ranging from €250 to €600, as airline staff strikes are generally not classified as extraordinary circumstances. The strike was triggered by parallel disputes involving two major unions: Vereinigung Cockpit (VC), representing pilots, over disagreements related to pension schemes and retirement benefits. UFO (Unabhängige Flugbegleiter Organisation), representing cabin crew, over job security, working conditions and collective agreements, including concerns linked to Lufthansa’s regional subsidiary operations. The strike was driven by unresolved labour disputes between staff unions and Lufthansa management, the main issues were pension benefits, job security and stalled contract negotiations. Union leaders said negotiations with Lufthansa management had stalled after months of talks, prompting the one-day walkout. Lufthansa management described the action as “disproportionate and unnecessary”, warning that the disruption would affect not only passengers but also Germany’s wider aviation network during a high-demand travel period. As of Friday, February 13, Lufthansa spokesperson confirmed that the strike had ended as scheduled, and that flight operations were largely returning to normal. No further industrial action has been announced at this stage. The airline said most services were operating according to schedule on Friday, although minor residual delays and isolated cancellations remained possible due to aircraft and crew repositioning. The disruption coincided with a busy week in Germany, with international travel demand elevated due to major events such as the Munich Security Conference and the opening of the Berlin International Film Festival, amplifying the impact on business and diplomatic travel. Lufthansa operates more than 700 aircraft and carries over 100 million passengers annually, making it one of Europe’s largest airline groups. The strike represents one of the most significant single-day disruptions to its operations in recent years.

Lufthansa Cancels 800 Flights as Pilot, Cabin Crew Strike Hits 100,000 Passengers

Aviation Today News Desk February 13, 2026

Frankfurt, Germany: Germany’s flagship carrier Lufthansa was forced to cancel nearly 800 flights on Thursday after pilots and cabin crew staged

$Texas, United States: American Airlines Group Inc. is confronting unprecedented internal pressure from its largest labor unions this week as both flight attendants and pilots publicly rebuked Chief Executive Officer Robert Isom, citing chronic operational disruptions, lagging financial performance and strategic shortcomings. The escalation marks one of the most significant labor-management tensions in the airline’s recent history. On February 9, 2026, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) representing more than 28,000 American flight attendants issued a unanimous vote of no confidence in CEO Robert Isom, calling his leadership a “downward spiral” and urging a change at the top. The union says persistent operational failures and poor financial outcomes have directly harmed frontline workers and passenger experience. APFA has also scheduled a protest outside American’s headquarters in Fort Worth on February 12, reinforcing demands for executive accountability, improved operational support and a credible turnaround strategy. “This level of failure begins at the very top,” APFA President Julie Hedrick said in union communications, faulting management for decisions that left employees and travelers coping with systemic disruptions. Meanwhile, the Allied Pilots Association (APA) representing about 16,000 pilots delivered a strongly worded letter to American’s board earlier in the week asserting that confidence in management has eroded. Although the APA stopped short of a formal no-confidence vote, its leadership called for a face-to-face meeting with board members to address operational, cultural, and strategic issues. In a leaked letter to the APA board, Isom wrote, “The Board and I are aligned with you in the desire to make American the strongest airline possible in every respect. We discussed your letter at length and agreed that, as a member of the board and CEO, it is most appropriate that I get together with you, your leadership team, or the APA Board of Directors, whatever is best as soon as possible.” “I appreciate the opportunity to address the items outlined in your letter and the specifics you relayed to me personally regarding our handling of Winter Storms Fern and Gianna; American’s focus on pilot attendance policies; and our business plan to return American to its rightful place atop the industry.” American’s board also agreed to discuss those concerns directly with APA representatives, a rare concession that reflects the seriousness of the unrest. The immediate backdrop to the unions’ actions includes a major operational breakdown in late January when Winter Storm Fern swept through the U.S., severely disrupting airline schedules. Between January 23 and January 28, American Airlines cancelled nearly 6,800 flights, equating to roughly 43.4% of its schedule during that period. Unions contend that the airline was inadequately prepared for the storm’s impact, leaving crews stranded overnight in airports and passengers stranded in mass , incidents they say exposed deeper systemic weaknesses in planning and recovery procedures. APFA leaders cited anecdotes of flight attendants sleeping on airport floors and extended hold times during the chaos. American’s financial performance in recent years has significantly lagged its two main rivals, Delta and United Airlines, and many unions pin the blame on Isom’s strategy to turn the carrier’s domestic and network into its main differentiator. In 2025, the airline posted a full-year net profit of $111 million, down sharply from $846 million in 2024 and representing an approximately 87% decline in profits, according to union and industry reporting. By comparison, Delta Air Lines recorded a net profit near $5 billion and United Airlines around $3.4 billion in the same period. Isom embarked on a cost-cutting mission, ripping out TV screens from domestic airliners just as its rivals were doing the exact opposite. American chose to compete on price, while Delta and United pursued higher-yield premium passengers. The strategy adopted by Delta and United has proven to be incredibly successful, while airlines competing on price continue to lag financially. There are very real signs that American Airlines knows it went in the wrong direction. Isom says the carrier is focused on improving its premium proposition, but unions fear that he is the wrong person to lead the significant change that is required to turn American Airlines around. In 2024, the perceived architect of American’s failed strategy, Vasu Raja, was ushered out for what the APFA describes as a “high-profile sales and distribution debacle that set American back years and alienated thousands of high-revenue customers and businesses.” Despite this, however, Vasu continued to receive $462,000 in base pay for seven months and was awarded a $1 million lump sum severance, a decision that infuriated unions. Profit margin disparities have translated into meager profit-sharing payouts for front-line workers. One example cited by union critics shows that while employees at other major carriers received bonus checks worth weeks of pay, American’s payout was a fraction roughly 0.3% of annual salary. American’s stock has also underperformed broader expectations, declining significantly in early 2026 and continuing a negative trend from 2025. American Airlines executives, including Isom, have defended the company’s direction in recent earnings calls, emphasizing a strategy focused on customer experience enhancements, network optimization, and revenue generation through premium product upgrades. Management has acknowledged the winter storm as the largest weather-related operational disruption in the airline’s history but maintained that ongoing improvements will yield stronger results in 2026. Isom, who became CEO in March 2022, has told pilots that the upcoming board meeting will focus not only on addressing operational performance but also on issues such as pilot attendance and broader business planning. However, union leaders argue that without measurable progress on reliability, strategy, and employee support, morale and confidence will continue eroding a dynamic they warn could have long-term consequences for American’s competitive position. With protests planned, direct talks underway between pilot representatives and senior leadership, and flight attendants pushing strategic change at the board level, American Airlines finds itself at a labor and leadership crossroads. Stakeholders from investors to travelers will be watching closely as the airline seeks to reconcile internal dissent with its efforts to close performance gaps against Delta and United, restore operational stability, and articulate a definitive long-term strategy for recovery.$

American CEO Faces Backlash From Pilots And Flight Attendants, APFA To Protest At HQ

Aviation Today News Desk February 12, 2026

Texas, United States: American Airlines Group Inc. is confronting unprecedented internal pressure from its largest labor unions this week as both

Three British Airways Crew Hospitalized After Consuming Marijuana-Infused Candies

Aviation Today News Desk February 11, 2026

London, United Kingdom: Three British Airways cabin crew members were hospitalized after consuming sweets containing a high dose of marijuana that

Cuba Halts Jet Fuel Supply at All International Airports Until March Amid US Sanctions

Aviation Today News Desk February 9, 2026

Havana, Cuba: Cuba is confronting an unprecedented aviation fuel crisis that threatens to disrupt civil aviation, international tourism and foreign connectivity

London, United Kingdom: The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has formally asked Air India to provide a detailed explanation of an incident involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that departed London Heathrow Airport on February 1 despite a reported anomaly with a critical aircraft system. The regulator has warned the airline that failure to respond fully within one week could trigger regulatory action affecting its Dreamliner operations. Air India flight AI132, operating a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner registered VT-ANX, departed Heathrow for Bengaluru after pilots noted irregular behaviour with a fuel control switch, a vital cockpit control that regulates fuel flow to the engines. During engine start, one of the two fuel control switches did not remain positively latched in the “RUN” position on the first two attempts before stabilising on the third. The flight continued without in-air issues and landed in Bengaluru. Upon arrival, the crew filed a defect report citing the anomaly, and the aircraft was grounded for inspection on February 2. The UK Civil Aviation Authority has taken the step of demanding a formal response from Air India, including: A comprehensive account of pre-flight maintenance actions taken before departure, A root-cause analysis of the fuel control switch event, A preventive action plan to reduce the risk of recurrence across Air India’s Dreamliner fleet, which comprises 33 aircraft. In official correspondence, the CAA emphasised that regulators routinely seek detailed explanations following incidents affecting safety-critical components, particularly when an aircraft departs with a potential defect. Air India said it conducted precautionary re-inspections of fuel control switches across its Boeing 787 fleet after the incident and reported no issues found during these checks. The airline acknowledged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) oversight and said it will comply with the regulator’s guidance to circulate Boeing’s recommended operating procedures for the switches to all flight crews. India’s DGCA also issued a clarification, stating that post-flight inspections determined the fuel switches were serviceable and functioning normally. According to the regulator, the switch may move if light pressure is applied in an incorrect direction, but its design does not indicate a defect when used according to approved procedures. The DGCA advised Air India to reinforce correct switch handling among pilots. Fuel control switches are crucial for aircraft safety. They allow pilots to start and shut down engines and are designed with locking mechanisms to prevent unintended movement. This category of component has been under heightened scrutiny following the June 2025 crash of an Air India Boeing 787-8 in Ahmedabad, where preliminary investigation reports indicated fuel control switches played a role in dual-engine power loss shortly after takeoff. That accident, which resulted in significant loss of life, triggered industry-wide inspections and close regulatory observation of Boeing 787 systems. Though the final accident report remains pending, aviation authorities worldwide have been monitoring similar technical aspects, including fuel system controls, in current operations. Air India faces a deadline to submit its response to the UK CAA within one week of the February 4 notice. The airline has stressed safety as its utmost priority and reiterated cooperation with international regulators and Boeing in evaluating the matter.

UK CAA Seeks Formal Explanation On Air India 787 Fuel Switch Event; DGCA Finds No Fault

Aviation Today News Desk February 7, 2026

London, United Kingdom: The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has formally asked Air India to provide a detailed explanation of an

Delhi, India: Air India has grounded one of its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft after a pilot reported a possible defect in the fuel control switch mechanism, prompting a detailed inspection and coordination with the airframe manufacturer, Boeing. The aircraft, operating as AI132 from London Heathrow to Bengaluru, landed safely at its destination on February 2, after the flight crew observed abnormal behaviour in the left engine’s fuel control switch during pre-flight engine checks, according to airline officials. In a statement, Air India confirmed that a pilot flagged the issue and the aircraft was immediately taken out of service as a precautionary safety measure while the concern is investigated. The airline has informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and engaged Boeing to prioritise a technical evaluation. “After receiving this initial information, we have grounded the aircraft and are involving the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to get the pilot’s concerns checked on a priority basis,” an Air India spokesperson said. The matter has also been formally communicated to India’s aviation regulator, the DGCA. Fuel control switches regulate the flow of fuel to an aircraft’s engines and are designed with safeguards to prevent unintended movement. On the Boeing 787, these switches must be lifted and then moved to change position, reducing the likelihood of accidental operation. However, if such a switch were to shift from thle “RUN” to the “CUTOFF” position in flight, it would immediately halt fuel flow, leading to engine shutdown. The focus on fuel control switch behaviour stems from the June 12, 2025 crash of Air India Flight AI-171, another Boeing 787-8, near Ahmedabad, which killed 260 people. A preliminary investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) found that both engine fuel control switches moved from RUN to CUTOFF in quick succession just after takeoff, resulting in dual engine power loss. That incident triggered extensive regulatory scrutiny. In July 2025, Air India announced it had completed precautionary inspections of the fuel control switch locking mechanism on all Boeing 787-8 aircraft and found no defects at the time. Following the recent pilot report, Air India has begun focused inspections of fuel control switches across its Boeing Dreamliner fleet. According to an internal company communication seen by Reuters, these checks have so far not identified a systemic issue with other aircraft. Air India has reiterated that passenger and crew safety remains its top priority. Boeing has said it is assisting with the review.

Air India Grounds Boeing 787‑8 LDN–BLR Flight After Pilot Reports Fuel Switch Defect

Aviation Today News Desk February 3, 2026

Delhi, India: Air India has grounded one of its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft after a pilot reported a possible defect in

Hanoi, Vietnam: Vietnam Airlines (HVN) delivered its strongest financial performance in history in 2025, posting record annual revenue and sharply improved profitability, according to its fourth-quarter financial statements released on January 29. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the national flag carrier recorded consolidated revenue of VND 32.34 trillion (approx. US$1.3 billion), an increase of 12 percent year-on-year. Consolidated pre-tax profit reached nearly VND 540 billion during the period. Vietnam Airlines attributed the strong Q4 performance to higher seat occupancy rates and growing passenger and cargo volumes, particularly on international and regional routes. The airline also increased flight frequencies on key international services and optimized fleet utilization to meet strong demand during the year-end peak travel season. Vietnam Airlines reported consolidated revenue of more than VND 21.43 trillion for the full year 2025, marking the highest annual revenue in the company’s history and a rise of about 10 percent compared with 2024. Consolidated after-tax profit exceeded VND 7.71 trillion, with the portion attributable to the parent company reaching VND 5.51 trillion more than double that of the prior year. Beyond operational gains, Vietnam Airlines implemented multiple service upgrades aimed at boosting passenger experience and strengthening competitiveness. These included: Launch of in-flight internet services. Introduction of the carrier’s signature fragrance, “Nha”. More synchronized services at Terminal 3 of Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport. Biometric VNeID check-in capabilities. Expansion and upgrades of Lotus lounges at major airports. According to the airline, these enhancements not only elevated the travel experience but also supported business performance during the critical holiday period. Vietnam Airlines also strengthened its financial foundations in 2025 by successfully issuing 897 million new shares. This helped return both parent and consolidated equity to positive territory by the end of the year. The airline contributed VND 3.29 trillion to the State budget, a 5 percent year-on-year increase, underscoring its expanding role in supporting Vietnam’s broader economic recovery and growth. Looking ahead, Vietnam Airlines plans to build on the momentum of 2025 by enhancing operational efficiency and financial performance. For 2026, the carrier is targeting: 29.07 million passengers, a 13.2 percent increase over 2025. Approximately 13 percent growth in available seat kilometres to tap into rising demand across the Asia-Pacific aviation market. With a strengthened balance sheet and improving profitability, Vietnam Airlines said it is positioning itself for sustainable medium- and long-term growth while progressing toward its goal of becoming a five-star international airline by 2030.

Vietnam Airlines Achieves Record Revenue And Profit, Marking Best Year In Its History

Aviation Today News Desk February 2, 2026

Hanoi, Vietnam: Vietnam Airlines (HVN) delivered its strongest financial performance in history in 2025, posting record annual revenue and sharply improved

Civil Aviation

Union Strike Disrupts Kenya’s Main Airport For Two Days Before Return-To-Work Deal

beOnd Signs LOI To Launch Bahrain Airline, Projects 1,200 Jobs And $1.5B Boost

DGCA Fines Air India ₹1 Crore For Flying A320 Eight Times Without Valid ARC Permit

Lufthansa Cancels 800 Flights as Pilot, Cabin Crew Strike Hits 100,000 Passengers

Three British Airways Crew Hospitalized After Consuming Marijuana-Infused Candies

Cuba Halts Jet Fuel Supply at All International Airports Until March Amid US Sanctions

UK CAA Seeks Formal Explanation On Air India 787 Fuel Switch Event; DGCA Finds No Fault

Air India Grounds Boeing 787‑8 LDN–BLR Flight After Pilot Reports Fuel Switch Defect

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