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Baramati, India: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released its preliminary report into the accident involving a Learjet 45XR aircraft, registration VT-SSK, which crash-landed at Baramati on 28 January 2026, resulting in five fatalities including the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. IMPORTANT NOTE: As per the AAIB, this report contains preliminary factual information subject to change. In accordance with ICAO Annex 13, the sole objective of this investigation is the prevention of future accidents and not the apportioning of blame or liability. No final conclusions should be drawn from this document at this stage. The aircraft, operated by M/s VSR Ventures Pvt. Ltd., was conducting a non-scheduled passenger flight from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai) to Baramati. The accident occurred at approximately 0316 UTC (0846 IST) during the landing phase on Runway 11 at the uncontrolled Baramati airfield. Aircraft and Crew The aircraft was a Learjet 45XR (Serial No. 417), manufactured in 2010 and powered by Honeywell TFE 731-20BR-1B engines. It held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and Airworthiness Review Certificate at the time of the accident. The aircraft had accumulated 4,915:48 total airframe hours. On board were two flight crew members, one cabin attendant and two passengers. All five occupants sustained fatal injuries. The Pilot-in-Command, aged 61, held an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and had 18,855 total flying hours, including 2,815 hours on type. The First Officer, aged 25, held a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and had 2,490 total flying hours, including 2,243 hours on type. Both pilots were current and medically valid. Pre-flight breath analyser tests conducted prior to departure were reported as negative. Flight and Approach The flight departed Mumbai after filing a flight plan to Baramati, with Pune and Mumbai listed as alternates. The aircraft took off from Runway 27 at Mumbai and climbed to FL190 before descending toward Baramati. Baramati is an uncontrolled airfield managed by M/s Maharashtra Airport Development Company Limited (MADC). The aerodrome permits only Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations and does not have navigational aids other than windsocks. The runway orientation is 11/29, with displaced thresholds of 1,400 ft for Runway 11 and 500 ft for Runway 29. According to the report, the airfield does not have a Meteorological (MET) facility. Weather information is relayed using instruments installed in a temporary tower operated by one of the flying training organisations based at the airfield. During the initial approach, the crew requested visibility information and were advised it was 3 kilometres. The report notes that the visibility required for VFR flight is 5 kilometres. The aircraft continued the approach but initiated a go-around. On the second approach to Runway 11, the aircraft reported the field in sight and was cleared to land. Winds were reported as calm. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft was heard transmitting “Oh S**T Oh S**T” before impacting terrain to the left of Runway 11, abeam the threshold. CCTV footage from a nearby village reportedly showed the aircraft banking to the right before striking trees and impacting ground approximately 50 metres left of the runway edge. The aircraft was engulfed in fire and was destroyed. Aerodrome Observations During on-site inspection, investigators observed faded runway markings and the presence of loose gravel on the runway surface. The last runway re-carpeting was conducted in March 2016. The report also states that the aerodrome does not have an in-house Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) unit. Firefighting and ambulance services are provided by the Baramati Municipal Corporation upon request. Additionally, the aerodrome does not have a boundary wall, and fencing was reported to be inadequate. Weather Context METAR data from nearby controlled airports showed reduced visibility conditions on the morning of the accident. Pune reported visibility as low as 2,000 metres between 0240 and 0300 UTC, while Mumbai reported 2,500 metres visibility during the period. Satellite imagery from INSAT-3DR indicated no significant clouding over Pune but suggested the presence of shallow fog patches in the vicinity of Baramati. Flight Recorders Both the Solid-State Flight Data Recorder (SSFDR) and Solid-State Cockpit Voice Recorder (SSCVR) were recovered from the tail section. Although both units sustained thermal damage, raw data from the SSFDR has been successfully downloaded at the AAIB laboratory in New Delhi and is under analysis. Due to thermal damage and manufacturer considerations, assistance has been sought from the United States to recover data from the SSCVR, in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 provisions. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), USA, has appointed an Accredited Representative and technical advisers to assist in the investigation. Interim Safety Recommendations Based on interim findings, the AAIB has issued safety recommendations to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). These include directing operators conducting VFR flights to uncontrolled airfields to strictly adhere to standard operating procedures, and ensuring flying operations are permitted only when prevailing meteorological conditions meet regulatory criteria. The AAIB has also recommended that DGCA issue directions to stakeholders responsible for managing uncontrolled airfields to maintain required safety standards, enhance landing aids and basic MET facilities, and examine the feasibility of licensing such aerodromes for regulated operations.

Investigation

Preliminary Report On Baramati Crash Flags Low Visibility, Instructor-Handled Tower

February 28, 2026

DGCA Issues Safety Warning To Charter Operators After Decade-Long Accident Data Review SEO DES: The regulator flagged systemic flaws in the non-scheduled sector including SOP breaches, weak flight planning, training gaps and commercial pressure SOCIAL: India’s civil aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has issued a safety warning to charter operators after reviewing a decade of accident data and recent fatal crashes. The regulator flagged systemic issues in the non-scheduled sector, including SOP violations, weak flight planning, training gaps and commercial pressure affecting safety decisions. The move follows two fatal crashes in January and February 2026 involving a Learjet 45XR and a King Air air ambulance. DGCA has introduced stricter measures, including mandatory safety disclosures, a ranking system for operators, intensified audits, tighter oversight of older aircraft and tougher penalties. It also stressed that pilot safety decisions are final and that senior management will be held accountable for lapses. New Delhi, India: India’s civil aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has issued a sweeping safety warning to charter flight operators and unveiled a range of strict oversight measures following a comprehensive review of accident data and a spate of recent aviation incidents. The regulator convened a high-level meeting with holders of Non-Scheduled Operator Permits (NSOPs) , the licence category covering on-demand charter flights, corporate jets, and air ambulance services on Tuesday to communicate the warning and new directives, officials said. The DGCA’s warning follows an exhaustive review of accident records over the past decade which identified repeated systemic weaknesses in the non-scheduled segment. The review highlighted non-adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), inadequate flight planning, training deficiencies and commercial pressure undermining safety decisions as recurring factors in charter aircraft accidents. The move comes against the backdrop of two fatal accidents within a month: On 28 January 2026, a Learjet 45XR operated by VSR Ventures crashed near Baramati Airport in Maharashtra, killing five people including then Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. On 23 February 2026, a Beechcraft C90 King Air air ambulance operated by Redbird Airways crashed in Chatra, Jharkhand, killing all seven persons onboard. These tragedies have reflected long-standing safety concerns in India’s small aircraft sector and triggered regulatory action. In its communication to charter operators, the DGCA stressed that safety must remain the “absolute priority, superseding all commercial considerations” and reiterated that the pilot-in-command’s decision to divert, delay or cancel a flight for safety reasons is final and must be respected by operators. Major measures announced: Mandatory public disclosure by NSOP holders of critical safety information on their websites including aircraft age, maintenance history and pilot experience to empower customers with safety-related data before chartering flights. Implementation of a safety ranking system for all non-scheduled operators, with rankings to be published on the DGCA’s official portal. Random and intensified audits, including checks of cockpit voice recorders (CVR), flight data, fuel logs and technical records to detect unauthorised operations or data irregularities. Increased oversight of older aircraft and those undergoing ownership changes, and scrutiny of operators’ Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities. Stricter enforcement and penalties pilots violating Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) or attempting to land below safety minima could face licence suspensions of up to five years, while operators failing to meet compliance may face permit suspensions or fines. The regulator also warned that accountable managers and senior leadership of operators will be held personally responsible for systemic non-compliances, noting that “safety lapses cannot simply be blamed on pilots.” The new directives reflect a broader emphasis on safety oversight in India’s rapidly expanding aviation market. The charter segment has historically faced operational challenges, including weaker internal safety systems, pressure from clients for tight schedules and, in some cases, regulatory oversight gaps relative to scheduled airlines.

India

DGCA Issues Safety Warning To Charter Operators After Decade-Long Accident Data Review

February 28, 2026

15 Killed In Bolivian Air Force C-130 Crash Near El Alto Airport, At Least 30 Injured SEO DES: The aircraft carrying newly printed banknotes skidded off the runway and struck multiple vehicles on Costanera Avenue, a busy urban road SOCIAL: A Bolivian Air Force Hercules C‑130 cargo plane crashed near El Alto International Airport on February 27, 2026, killing 15 people and injuring at least 30 others. The aircraft, carrying newly printed banknotes for the central bank, skidded off the runway and struck multiple vehicles on Costanera Avenue, a busy urban road, causing widespread chaos. Emergency responders recovered victims, treated the injured, and secured the scene, while police dispersed crowds attempting to collect scattered cash. The crash caused significant damage to dozens of vehicles, and flight operations at the airport were temporarily suspended. Investigators are examining weather, technical issues, and pilot factors as potential causes. El Alto’s high altitude added operational challenges for the aircraft. Authorities continue search and recovery operations, with further updates expected from the Bolivian Ministry of Defence. El Alto, Bolivia: A Bolivian Air Force Hercules C‑130 cargo aircraft crashed onto a crowded roadway near El Alto International Airport on Friday evening, February 27, 2026, killing at least 15 people and injuring at least 30 more, authorities said. The aircraft, carrying newly printed banknotes for Bolivia’s central bank, veered off the runway and struck multiple vehicles on a busy urban avenue, triggering a chaotic emergency response. The military transport aircraft, operated by the Bolivian Air Force, departed from Santa Cruz and was approaching El Alto, a high‑altitude city adjacent to the administrative capital, La Paz, when it skidded off the runway at El Alto International Airport. The Hercules C‑130 then slid onto Costanera Avenue, a principal thoroughfare often filled with traffic. Local officials confirmed it overran the runway and entered a busy road, impacting dozens of vehicles. Fire Chief Pavel Tovar told reporters that at least 15 people have died in the crash. Officials have not fully clarified whether the fatalities include crew members aboard the aircraft, people in struck vehicles, or both. Rescue teams recovered bodies from the crash scene, including the roadway where mangled debris and aircraft wreckage lay scattered. At least 30 people were injured, with several reported in serious condition at nearby hospitals. Emergency services, including firefighters and medical teams, worked into the night to transport the wounded and control the scene. The cargo plane was confirmed to be transporting newly printed Bolivian banknotes, reportedly bound for circulation in other parts of the country. Upon impact, a large amount of currency spilled onto the roadway. Videos shared on social media showed crowds of people gathering near the wreckage, with some picking up scattered bills. Local police deployed water hoses and tear gas to disperse bystanders and secure the area, complicating rescue efforts. Bolivia’s central bank said the notes were not yet legal tender at the time of the crash, as they had not been issued into circulation. Local media footage and official statements from the national fire department showed dozens of vehicles damaged or destroyed by the aircraft’s uncontrolled exit from the runway. Cars, trucks, and minibuses along Costanera Avenue bore the brunt of the impact. El Alto International Airport temporarily suspended flight operations in the aftermath to facilitate emergency work and investigations. Boliviana de Aviación, Bolivia’s national airline, confirmed the crashed aircraft was not part of its commercial fleet. Official investigators have launched a probe to determine the precise cause of the accident. Although weather conditions including reports of poor visibility and possible hail were present at the time, authorities have not yet confirmed whether weather, technical failure, pilot error, or a combination of factors contributed to the crash. El Alto’s high altitude roughly 4,000 m (about 13,000 ft) above sea level also presents operational challenges for aircraft, where thinner air affects engine performance and braking efficiency. Search and rescue efforts, forensic recovery of remains, and broader investigations are ongoing. The Bolivian Ministry of Defence and national aviation authorities are expected to provide further updates.

Aircraft Crashes

15 Killed In Bolivian Air Force C-130 Crash Near El Alto Airport, At Least 30 Injured

February 28, 2026

Turkish Airlines TK75 Diverts To Vienna After Mid-Air Emergency Declaration SEO DES: The Boeing 777 diverted about two hours into the flight and landed safely in Vienna, The airline has not yet confirmed the cause of the emergency SOCIAL: Turkish Airlines Flight TK75 from Istanbul to Vancouver made an emergency landing in Vienna on 26 February 2026 after the crew declared a general in-flight emergency and transmitted a 7700 squawk code. The Boeing 777-300ER (TC-LJJ) diverted about two hours into the flight and landed safely with no reported injuries. The airline has not yet disclosed the cause of the emergency, and further updates are awaited. Air traffic controllers provided priority handling and cleared surrounding traffic to ensure a safe approach. Airport emergency services remained on standby as a precaution during the landing. Passengers are expected to be re-accommodated subject to technical inspections and operational clearance. Image: byeangel (Flickr) Video: Turkish Airlines Vienna, Austria: A long-haul Turkish Airlines flight en route from Istanbul, Turkey, to Vancouver, Canada, made an unscheduled emergency landing at Vienna International Airport on Thursday, 26 February 2026, after the flight crew declared a general in-flight emergency over European airspace, according to flight tracking data reports. Turkish Airlines Flight TK75, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER registered as TC-LJJ, departed Istanbul Airport (IST) in the early afternoon and was approximately two hours into the scheduled 12-hour transatlantic journey when the aircraft began an abrupt diversion toward Austria. About 13:00–13:15 UTC, the flight crew transmitted the internationally recognised “squawk 7700” emergency transponder code, signalling a general emergency and requesting priority handling from air traffic control. Controllers cleared surrounding traffic and guided the aircraft toward Vienna as the closest major airport capable of accommodating a fully loaded wide-body aircraft under emergency conditions. Vienna International Airport’s emergency services including fire, medical and rescue units were placed on alert as a precautionary response while the flight executed a controlled descent.The aircraft landed safely, and there were no immediate reports of injuries among passengers and crew. Turkish Airlines had not publicly released an official statement detailing the specific cause of the emergency. The 7700 transponder code covers a wide range of possible scenarios, from technical malfunctions to medical incidents or other operational irregularities; it does not indicate the precise nature of the problem. As investigations continue and official updates from Turkish Airlines or Austrian authorities emerge, further details on the cause of the emergency and the subsequent operational impact on the flight’s onward journey and passenger arrangements are expected.

Incidents

Turkish Airlines TK75 Diverts To Vienna After Mid-Air Emergency Declaration

February 27, 2026

India Revises Airline Refund Rules, Introduces 48-Hour Free Cancellation Window SEO DES: The new provisions apply to all scheduled domestic carriers, non-scheduled operators and foreign airlines operating to and from India SOCIAL: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has revised India’s Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR), introducing passenger-friendly refund and cancellation rules effective March 26, 2026. The key provision is a 48-hour free “look-in” cancellation window for tickets booked directly with airlines, applicable if departure is at least seven days away for domestic flights and 15 days for international travel. The rules set strict refund timelines seven days for credit card refunds, immediate cash refunds, and 14 working days for agent bookings, with airlines responsible. Cancellation charges are capped at the basic fare plus fuel surcharge, and no extra processing fees are allowed. Airlines must also refund all statutory taxes even on non-refundable fares, allow free name corrections within 24 hours, and offer refund or credit options in medical emergencies. The norms apply to all domestic, non-scheduled and foreign airlines operating in India. New Delhi, India: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has formally amended India’s Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) governing airline ticket refunds and cancellations, introducing a suite of consumer-centric provisions that take effect from March 26, 2026. The changes aim to improve transparency, expedite refunds and provide passengers greater flexibility in managing airline bookings. Under the revised framework, airlines are required to offer a 48-hour “look-in option” after a ticket is booked. During this period, passengers who have booked directly through an airline’s official website can cancel or amend their tickets without incurring any additional charges, except for the difference in fare when moving to a higher-priced flight. The facility is conditioned on the flight departure being at least seven days away for domestic travel and 15 days away for international travel from the booking date. After the 48-hour window lapses, standard cancellation and change fees apply. The amended rules specifies time-bound refund obligations for airlines: Credit card refunds must be completed within seven days of cancellation. Cash refunds must be issued immediately at the point of sale. For tickets bought through travel agents or online portals, the onus of refund lies with the airline, and refunds must be processed within 14 working days. Fee Transparency Rules and Special Provisions: No extra refund processing fees: Airlines cannot levy additional charges for processing refunds. Cap on cancellation charges: Fees cannot exceed the basic fare plus fuel surcharge, excluding fully disclosed agent service fees at the time of booking. Mandatory disclosure: Airlines must clearly display cancellation charges and the exact refundable amount at the time of booking and prominently on tickets or their websites. Free name corrections: Spelling errors must be corrected without extra charge if reported within 24 hours of booking directly through the airline’s platform. Refund of statutory taxes: All statutory taxes and passenger service charges including User Development Fee (UDF), Airport Development Fee (ADF), and Passenger Service Fee (PSF) must be refunded, even on non-refundable tickets. Medical emergency provision: In case of hospitalisation or medical emergencies involving the passenger or a family member on the same booking, airlines must offer either a full refund or a travel credit, subject to documentation. Fitness-to-travel cases: Where medical fitness is in question, refunds may be processed upon submission of certification from an airline aerospace medicine specialist or a DGCA-empanelled expert. The new provisions apply to all scheduled domestic carriers, non-scheduled operators and foreign airlines operating to and from India. The DGCA’s revisions come against the backdrop of rising passenger complaints regarding delayed refunds and opaque cancellation policies, and seek to set minimum standards of transparency and accountability across the industry.

India

India Revises Airline Refund Rules, Introduces 48-Hour Free Cancellation Window

February 27, 2026

Retired U.S. Air Force Pilot Arrested For Allegedly Training Chinese Military SEO DES: Prosecutors allege Brown went to China in Dec 2023, stayed until Feb 2026, training PLAAF pilots & briefing them on US Air Force tactics, breaching ITAR laws SOCIAL: A retired U.S. Air Force officer, Gerald Eddie Brown Jr., 65, has been arrested and charged with providing unauthorized military training to members of the Chinese military, the U.S. Department of Justice said on 25 February 2026. Arrested in Indiana, he faces charges under the Arms Export Control Act for supplying defense services without a State Department license. Prosecutors allege Brown traveled to China in December 2023 and stayed until early February 2026, where he trained People’s Liberation Army Air Force pilots and briefed them on U.S. Air Force operations and tactics, violating export control laws under ITAR. A former Major with 24 years of service, Brown previously flew and instructed on several fighter jets, including the F-35. The FBI and Air Force Office of Special Investigations are probing the case, which officials describe as a serious national security concern. Washington, United States: A retired U.S. Air Force officer and combat pilot has been arrested and charged for allegedly providing and conspiring to provide defence training to members of the Chinese military without authorisation, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced in a press release on 25 February 2026. Gerald Eddie Brown, Jr., 65, a U.S. citizen known by the call sign “Runner,” was arrested in Jeffersonville, Indiana, and was expected to make his initial appearance before a Magistrate Judge in the Southern District of Indiana on 26 February 2026. Brown has been charged under the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) for providing prohibited defence services to foreign military personnel without a required license from the U.S. State Department. According to the DOJ, Brown “provided and conspired to provide defence services to Chinese military pilots without authorisation,” in violation of U.S. law. Prosecutors say the training he offered falls under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which require U.S. persons to obtain a licence from the State Department’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls before providing any military training or assistance to foreign nationals or foreign military units. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg emphasised that Brown was trained by the U.S. Air Force to defend the nation, a role his alleged conduct now reverses. “When U.S. persons, whether military or civilian, provide training to a foreign military, that activity is illegal unless they have a licence from the State Department,” Eisenberg said. “The National Security Division will use all tools at its disposal to protect our military advantages and hold to account those who would violate the AECA.” FBI officials also highlighted the national security implications of the case. Roman Rozhavsky, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, stated that Brown’s conduct allegedly aided efforts by the Chinese government to “modernize China’s military capabilities” by exploiting the expertise of former U.S. service members. Rozhavsky added that this arrest is intended to serve as a warning to others who might collaborate with U.S. adversaries. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia also condemned the alleged conduct, saying Brown “broke his oath” and “jeopardized the safety of our servicemembers and allies” by offering his training services overseas. Brown served over 24 years in the U.S. Air Force, retiring in 1996 at the rank of Major. His military career included commanding sensitive units with responsibility for nuclear weapons delivery systems, leading combat missions, and serving as a fighter pilot and simulator instructor on multiple aircraft including the F-4 “Phantom II,” F-15 “Eagle,” F-16 “Fighting Falcon,” A-10 “Thunderbolt II” and the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. After leaving active duty, Brown worked as a commercial cargo pilot and later as a contract simulator instructor training U.S. military pilots. According to the criminal complaint, Brown began making arrangements in August 2023 to contract with Chinese military personnel for combat aircraft training, using a co-conspirator to negotiate with Chinese national Stephen Su Bin who previously pled guilty in U.S. federal court in 2016 to conspiring to hack into defence contractor networks to steal sensitive data. Su Bin and his company were added to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Entity List in 2014. Brown allegedly travelled to China in December 2023 to begin the training work and remained there until early February 2026. Once in China, prosecutors say he conducted extensive briefings on U.S. Air Force operations, answered questions about U.S. military tactics, and trained People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) pilots. The DOJ’s announcement explicitly links Brown’s case to an earlier prosecution of a former U.S. Marine Corps pilot, Daniel Edmund Duggan, who was charged in 2017 with similar violations. Duggan was arrested in Australia in October 2022 and is awaiting extradition to the U.S. on comparable AECA charges for providing defence services to the Chinese military. In recent years, U.S. and allied security agencies have warned that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army continues to pursue current and former Western military personnel to bolster its capabilities, a trend that has drawn warnings from NATO and U.S. military leadership about safeguard obligations even after service members retire. The case is being investigated by the FBI’s New York Field Office, with assistance from its Louisville, Indianapolis and Los Angeles field offices, as well as the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Prosecution is being handled by attorneys from the DOJ’s National Security Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, with support from the Southern District of Indiana.

Military Aviation

Retired U.S. Air Force Pilot Arrested For Allegedly Training Chinese Military

February 27, 2026

REX Saab 340 Turboprop Flight Diverts To Parkes Airport After Mid-Air Engine Issue SEO DES: At about 13,000 feet, the crew detected an electrical fault on the right side of the aircraft, accompanied by abnormal engine (right) readings SOCIAL: A Regional Express Saab 340B operating Flight ZL6469 from Griffith to Sydney diverted to Parkes Airport on February 22 after the crew shut down the right engine due to electrical and abnormal engine indications at 13,000 feet. The aircraft landed safely on Runway 04 about 75 minutes later with no injuries reported. The Saab 340B (VH-RXE) returned to service roughly 36 hours after inspections. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has been notified and is reviewing the occurrence to determine whether a formal investigation is required. Image: Bidgee (wikimedia) Video: Rex Parkes, Australia: A Regional Express (REX) Saab 340B turboprop flight was forced to divert and make an unscheduled landing at Parkes Airport (NSW) on February 22 after the crew shut down one of its engines following electrical and engine indications. Flight ZL6469, operating from Griffith to Sydney, was at around 13,000 feet when the crew detected an electrical fault on the right side of the aircraft, accompanied by abnormal engine readings from the No. 2 (right) General Electric CT7-9B engine. Following standard safety procedures for engine and systems abnormalities, the pilots elected to shut down the affected engine mid-flight and declared a diversion to the nearest suitable airport. The twin-engine turboprop then entered holding patterns south of Parkes before descending and landing safely on Runway 04 approximately 75 minutes after the issue was first identified. All passengers and crew disembarked without injury, with emergency response teams on standby as a precaution. The aircraft involved in the incident, registered VH-RXE, is part of REX’s Saab 340 fleet, a workhorse on Australia’s regional network. Following the diversion, the aircraft was taken out of service for detailed inspection and maintenance checks and was returned to scheduled service roughly 36 hours later, according to operational updates. In line with aviation safety protocols, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has been made aware of the occurrence and awaits additional technical data from the operator before determining whether a formal investigation will be undertaken. Officials have indicated that such decisions hinge on further review of flight data and systems information provided by REX. In-flight engine shutdowns, while uncommon, are addressed in flight crew training and aircraft certification standards. Twin-engine turboprop aircraft such as the Saab 340 are designed to maintain controlled flight and safe landings on a single functioning engine when necessary.

Incidents

REX Saab 340 Turboprop Flight Diverts To Parkes Airport After Mid-Air Engine Issue

February 26, 2026

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Etihad Airways delivered its strongest financial and operational performance in the airline’s history for the full year 2025, marking robust growth, network expansion and enhanced customer experience, the carrier announced on 24 February 2026. The Abu Dhabi-based flag carrier reported a profit after tax of AED 2.6 billion (US $698 million), a 47 % year-on-year increase compared with 2024. This marked the airline’s fourth consecutive year of profitability and reflected sustained demand across global markets. Etihad carried 22.4 million passengers in 2025, up 21 % year-on-year, supported by a 21 % increase in capacity and available seat kilometres (ASK) of 111.5 billion. Passenger load factor improved to 88.3 % (+2 percentage points), illustrating strong demand across its international network. Total revenue rose 21 % year-on-year to AED 30.7 billion (US $8.4 billion), driven by both passenger and cargo operations. Passenger revenue jumped 24 % to AED 25.8 billion (US $7.0 billion), while cargo revenue increased 8 % to AED 4.5 billion (US $1.2 billion), supported by higher capacity and cargo volumes that grew 9 % to more than 700,000 leg tonnes. Operating performance strengthened significantly. EBITDA climbed 37 % year-on-year to AED 6.3 billion (US $1.7 billion), resulting in a 20 % EBITDA margin (+2 percentage points). Etihad’s profit margin improved to 8.4 % (+1.5 percentage points), more than double the global airline industry average of 3.9 %, according to IATA estimates. Strong cash generation remained a hallmark of the year, with operating cash flow approaching AED 8.0 billion (more than US $2 billion). This enabled the airline to fully fund its capital expenditure requirements and reduce debt. Etihad expanded its operating fleet to 127 aircraft, the largest in its history, with 29 aircraft added during 2025. The enlarged fleet supported growth across Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. The airline’s network grew from 94 to 110 destinations, bolstering global connectivity and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s positioning as a major aviation hub. Etihad’s growth helped drive tourism to Abu Dhabi. Point-to-point traffic rose by 900,000 passengers to 5.5 million compared with 2024, while the stopover visitor count more than doubled to 170,000. The airline accounted for approximately 50 % of total passenger growth across UAE carriers in 2025, highlighting its central role in the nation’s air travel sector. Etihad continued investing in customer experience with product upgrades across cabins, digital enhancements and expanded services. Overall net promoter scores improved year-on-year. The airline also received more than 25 international awards for customer experience, safety and operational performance. Throughout 2025, Etihad welcomed more than 3,200 new employees and promoted around 2,200 staff, including new cabin crew and pilots, further strengthening its operational capabilities. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, “2025 has been a defining year for Etihad, delivering our strongest performance across every key metric and marking our fourth consecutive year of profitability. These results confirm that our strategy is working, growing sustainably, strengthening our financial position, and continuing to deliver a high-quality experience for our guests.” With a strengthened financial position, an expanded fleet and a broader global footprint, Etihad enters 2026 poised for continued growth, deeper market penetration and ongoing contribution to Abu Dhabi’s economic and tourism strategies.

Airlines

Etihad Airways Marks The Strongest Growth In Airline’s History With 2.6B Profit In 2025

February 26, 2026

U.S. Military Aircraft Strikes Road Barrier During Philippine Training; Five Injured SEO DES: Pilot and two crew were hospitalised after the crash one was discharged others stable & Two others were treated on site, No civilians were injured SOCIAL: A U.S. military transport aircraft struck a concrete barrier while taking off from a roadway during a contingency training exercise in Pangasinan province, injuring all five American personnel aboard. Three were taken to hospital, with one later discharged and others in stable condition, while two were treated at the scene. No civilians were hurt. The exercise, conducted under U.S.-Philippines defense cooperation agreements, involved practising takeoffs and landings from alternate sites such as roads. Authorities from both countries have launched an investigation into the incident. Laoac, Philippines: A United States military transport aircraft struck a concrete barrier while taking off from a roadway during a contingency training exercise in the northern Philippines on Tuesday, injuring all five American personnel aboard, Philippine officials confirmed. The incident took place on a concrete bypass road in Laoac town, located in Pangasinan province, a designated alternate landing and take-off zone used for joint training operations. According to local police reports, the pilot and two other U.S. service members were transported to a hospital for further treatment following the accident. One of the hospitalized personnel has since been discharged, while the other remains in stable condition, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a brief statement. The remaining two crew members were treated at the scene for minor injuries, Philippine authorities said. No Philippine civilians were hurt in the incident, and the aircraft sustained noticeable damage. The flight was part of a routine contingency training exercise, designed to practise landing and taking off from alternate landing zones such as roads and highways. These drills aim to ensure preparedness for situations where conventional airports or runways are inaccessible for instance, after natural disasters like typhoons or earthquakes. Philippine officials noted that the exercise had been planned and fully coordinated with local civilian, police, and military authorities. The cause of the aircraft’s deviation and collision with the road barrier remains under investigation. Philippine and U.S. military authorities have not yet released detailed findings or a timeline for when a final report is expected. Under the framework of the 1999 Visiting Forces Agreement and a mutual defense treaty, U.S. forces regularly conduct joint training with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to enhance interoperability, humanitarian response capability, and regional security cooperation. In recent years, military cooperation between the two countries has expanded, including larger exercises focused on territorial defense and freedom of navigation, particularly in the South China Sea, where overlapping claims and maritime tensions involve China and several Southeast Asian nations.

Aircraft Crashes

U.S. Military Aircraft Strikes Road Barrier During Philippine Training; Five Injured

February 26, 2026

Turkish Air Force F-16 Crashes In Balikesir After Losing Radar Contact, Pilot Killed SEO DES: Shortly after takeoff, radio & radar contact was lost with the jet. Search teams were deployed & Wreckage was later found near the İzmir-Istanbul highway SOCIAL: A Turkish Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed shortly after takeoff from the 9th Main Jet Base Command in Balikesir in the early hours of Wednesday, killing the pilot. Authorities lost radio and radar contact with the aircraft minutes after departure at 12:56 a.m., and search teams later located the wreckage near the İzmir-Istanbul highway in Karesi district. The Ministry of National Defence confirmed the pilot’s death and launched a formal crash investigation. The Balikesir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has also opened a judicial probe, with officials examining flight data, communications records and wreckage evidence. The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. Balikesir, Turkey: A Turkish Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed in the early hours of Wednesday near the northwestern province of Balikesir, killing the pilot and prompting a formal investigation into the cause of the incident, officials confirmed. The jet, assigned to the 9th Main Jet Base Command, took off from Balikesir at 12:56 a.m. local time (2156 GMT on Tuesday). Shortly after departure, defence officials reported loss of radio communication and radar tracking with the aircraft. Search and rescue teams were dispatched immediately, and the wreckage was located later at the crash site. The Ministry of National Defence stated in an official message that the pilot was martyred in the crash, offering condolences to the family. The ministry added that the cause of the accident will be determined after a comprehensive investigation carried out by a dedicated crash examination team. Local authorities reported that debris from the aircraft was scattered over a wide area near the İzmir-Istanbul highway in Balikesir’s Karesi district, particularly around the Naipli locality. Emergency services, including security forces, fire brigades and medical personnel, were deployed to manage recovery efforts and secure the site. Portions of the highway were temporarily closed to civilian traffic during initial response operations. Justice Minister Akın Gürlek confirmed that the Balikesir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened a judicial investigation into the crash. Prosecutors, including the chief and deputy chief public prosecutors, were reported to be on site alongside technical investigators. The probe will examine all available evidence, including flight data, communications records, and wreckage analysis. Turkish authorities have not yet released details on potential causes for the crash, such as mechanical failure, environmental conditions or human factors. A full technical analysis by the crash investigation team is expected to take time, with further updates likely once preliminary findings are available. Balikesir Governor Ismail Ustaoğlu visited the crash scene and publicly extended condolences, reiterating that the pilot had been killed. Defence Minister Yaşar Güler, along with other senior government officials, issued tribute statements recognizing the sacrifice of the fallen pilot. Members of the Grand National Assembly also expressed condolences on social media and in statements to the press. The F-16 Fighting Falcon, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is a mainstay of the Turkish Air Force and widely used for air defence, ground support and training missions. Military aviation accidents, while relatively rare, carry high operational and training risks due to complex flight profiles.

Aircraft Crashes

Turkish Air Force F-16 Crashes In Balikesir After Losing Radar Contact, Pilot Killed

February 25, 2026

United States

U.S. House Rejects ROTOR Act After Pentagon Pushback Over Deadly D.C. Crash Reforms

February 25, 2026

SpiceJet Delhi-Leh Flight Makes Emergency Return After Engine Snag, All 150 Onboard Safe SEO DES: At around 9,000 ft, sparks were seen from the right engine, indicating a No.2 engine issue and prompting the crew to halt the climb and return to Delhi SOCIAL: A SpiceJet Boeing 737-700 operating flight SG-121 from Delhi to Leh made an emergency return to Indira Gandhi International Airport shortly after takeoff after the crew detected a technical issue with one engine during the initial climb. Authorities declared a full emergency as a precaution, and the aircraft landed safely around 6:55 a.m. All approximately 150 passengers and crew disembarked normally, no injuries were reported, and the aircraft was grounded for inspection. Image: Nisarg Vyas (Flickr) Video: SpiceJet New Delhi, India: A SpiceJet aircraft operating on the SG-121 Delhi–Leh route made an emergency return to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) early Tuesday morning after the flight crew detected a technical malfunction in one of the aircraft’s engines shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 737-700 jet, carrying approximately 150 passengers and crew, departed Delhi at about 6:21 a.m. IST but initiated an immediate air return within minutes of takeoff when indications of a problem with engine number two emerged. Airport officials confirmed that a “full emergency” was declared at IGI to ensure all runway and rescue units were positioned for a potential unscheduled landing. Fire tenders, ambulances, and medical teams were on standby as standard safety procedures were executed. Despite the onboard alert, there were no fire warnings in the cockpit, according to a statement released by SpiceJet. The flight crew reported the technical anomaly to Air Traffic Control and returned to the departure airport without further incident. The aircraft landed safely at IGI at around 6:55 a.m. IST, with all passengers disembarking normally. There were no injuries reported, and airport operations resumed shortly thereafter. A SpiceJet spokesperson reiterated that the decision to return was a precautionary measure following the technical issue. “The aircraft landed safely in Delhi, and all passengers disembarked normally,” the airline said in its official comment. Preliminary flight tracking data indicates the jet had begun its climb and had reached approximately 9,000 feet when sparks were observed from the right-hand engine, prompting the flight crew to halt the ascent and return to Delhi. The Delhi-Leh route is among India’s more challenging due to high altitude terrain and stringent operational standards. Airlines typically maintain strict maintenance protocols to mitigate technical risks on such segments.

Incidents

SpiceJet Delhi-Leh Flight Makes Emergency Return After Engine Snag, All 150 Onboard Safe

February 25, 2026

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Automation Rises, But Are Indian Pilots Being Trained To Keep Pace With The Future?

Automation Rises, But Are Indian Pilots Being Trained To Keep Pace With The Future?

START: India is emerging as the fastest-growing aviation market worldwide, yet it faces a significant hurdle: a shortage of trained technical personnel, including pilots, engineers, and technicians. This challenge is expected to become more acute as Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles enter the market within the next year or two, creating an additional need for pilots. The issue stems largely from inadequate planning and foresight by the authorities. Consequently, many aspiring Indian pilots are pursuing training in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bosnia, Montenegro, and the Philippines. In fact, approximately 700 out of every 1,000 commercial pilot licenses issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are earned abroad. India’s Potential as a Global Hub for Aviation Education Considering India’s expansive geography and favorable weather for flying, the country is ideally suited to be a global hub for aviation education. In the 1980s and 1990s, students from nations such as Iran, Jordan, Palestine, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and several African countries came to India for flight training. Today, the trend has reversed, with Indian students going overseas for pilot education. One key reason is the slow pace of domestic training programs and the cumbersome security clearance process for foreign students, which discourages them from enrolling in India. Competition from International Flight Schools Meanwhile, nations like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have established world-class flight schools. Students from neighboring Arab countries now mostly prefer the United States, Canada, and Europe for training, despite these regions lacking ideal weather for primary flight instruction. Domestic regulations further complicate matters. The DGCA allows a flight school to operate only if it meets minimum requirements for aircraft and paid-up capital, while the Airports Authority of India (AAI) imposes additional capital requirements. These rules do not guarantee quality education but are often sufficient to prevent many capable entrepreneurs from opening flight schools. By contrast, an Indian entrepreneur started a flight school in New Zealand with a single rented aircraft, which has since expanded to a fleet of over 20 planes and now attracts Indian students. Shortage of Trainer Aircraft The shortage of trainer aircraft is another pressing challenge. In the 1970s, Prof. David Hazen of Princeton University, invited by the Indian government to establish the first aeronautical department at IIT Kanpur, outlined a roadmap for India to achieve self-reliance in aviation training. However, progress has been slow. The DGCA developed the Swati light aircraft, manufactured by Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), but a fatal accident during testing brought the program to an end. Similarly, the Hansa trainer created by the National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL) was rejected by most flight schools. Lessons from the Pushpak Aircraft A comparison with the Pushpak aircraft is instructive. Manufactured in the 1950s, HAL produced 160 Pushpaks, which served India reliably for over 50 years and maintained an excellent safety record. In 1968, the government gifted one Pushpak each to Singapore and Malaysia to help them establish their flight training programs. The Pushpak’s success was largely due to it being modeled closely on the proven US Aeronca Chief. NAL later developed the next-generation Hansa (NG Hansa), which was showcased at the 2020 Wings India airshow, but production has yet to start, and setting up the necessary infrastructure would still take several years even if action begins immediately. Global Trainer Aircraft Shortages and LSAs The shortage of trainer aircraft is not unique to India. Major manufacturers such as Cessna and Piper had slowed production, underestimating demand, and now struggle to meet global requirements. Other countries have tackled this problem by incorporating Light Sport Aircraft (LSAs) into flight training. Equipped with advanced navigation systems, LSAs are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and widely used in the US and EU for commercial pilot instruction. However, Indian regulations currently do not permit LSAs for commercial pilot training. Despite being equipped with only a magnetic compass, pilots trained on Pushpaks have gone on to fly advanced aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A320. Allowing LSAs in India could reduce aircraft shortages, encourage domestic manufacturing, generate employment, and attract foreign investment. Lack of Experienced Flight Instructors The lack of experienced flight instructors adds another layer of difficulty. Rapid growth in airlines such as Indigo and Air India has led many instructors to leave training schools for better pay, career progression, and recognition in commercial aviation. This high turnover leaves less-experienced instructors teaching students, unlike other professional fields where teachers usually have extensive industry experience. In countries like the US, airline pilots can provide primary flight training in their spare time, giving trainees the advantage of learning from seasoned professionals and ensuring higher safety standards. Without urgent, proactive measures, India will continue to rely on foreign nations to fulfill the increasing demand for skilled professionals in its civil aviation sector. https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-insight/knowledge/flight-training-a-challenge-in-civil-aviation-101727069965710.html

India’s Aviation Boom Threatened By Severe Pilot, Instructor And Aircraft Shortages

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