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Taiwan Probes EVA Air Pilots Over Mayday Distress Calls After Taoyuan Runway Closure SEO DES: EVA Air flights BR392 and BR007 and Hong Kong Airlines flight HX260 declared fuel emergencies after extended holding. All landed safely with no injuries SOCIAL: Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Administration is investigating two EVA Air flight crews after three aircraft declared Mayday while holding near Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport on February 8. The emergency calls followed a runway closure triggered by a landing gear detachment on a T'way Air Boeing 737-800. EVA Air flights BR392 and BR007, along with Hong Kong Airlines flight HX260, declared fuel emergencies after extended holding. All aircraft landed safely with no injuries reported. Regulators are reviewing whether the Mayday calls met safety criteria and whether required cockpit voice and flight data recordings were properly preserved. Taoyuan City, Taiwan: Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) has launched an investigation into two EVA Air flight crews after they issued Mayday distress calls while approaching Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport earlier this month. The incident occurred on February 8 when a T'way Air Boeing 737-800 arriving from Jeju Island suffered a right main landing gear detachment upon landing at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, prompting authorities to temporarily close the airport’s north runway. The shutdown led to airspace congestion during peak evening traffic, forcing several inbound aircraft into extended holding patterns. Among the affected flights were EVA Air services BR392 and BR007, along with Hong Kong Airlines flight HX260. As fuel levels dropped while circling, all three flight crews declared “Mayday,” signaling a fuel emergency and requesting landing priority. All three aircraft landed safely, and no injuries were reported. The CAA confirmed it is reviewing whether the Mayday declarations met established aviation safety criteria or were made prematurely. Under international procedures, pilots may declare a fuel emergency if remaining fuel is projected to fall below final reserve levels, but regulators are assessing whether the situation met that threshold. In addition to examining cockpit communications and fuel calculations, authorities are investigating compliance with Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Act, which requires airlines to preserve cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR) data following an emergency declaration. Initial findings indicate that required data preservation procedures may not have been fully followed in the EVA Air cases. Officials have interviewed the involved pilots and are analyzing air traffic control recordings and flight tracking information as part of the ongoing inquiry. The CAA said any violations could result in administrative penalties or corrective actions. The runway disruption occurred during a high-traffic period ahead of Lunar New Year travel, intensifying pressure on airport operations. The CAA has advised airlines operating at Taoyuan to review fuel planning, contingency procedures and emergency communication protocols to ensure full compliance with safety standards. EVA Air has not publicly commented in detail on the investigation but confirmed that the flights landed safely and that it is cooperating with authorities.

Investigation

Taiwan Probes EVA Air Pilots Over Mayday Distress Calls After Taoyuan Runway Closure

February 19, 2026

Preliminary Report Links Engine Oil Pressure Loss To Fatal India One Air Accident SEO DES: The crash killed one passenger and seriously injured three others, while the 48-year-old captain and 41-year-old first officer were also badly hurt SOCIAL: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released its preliminary report on the January 10, 2026 crash of a Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX operated by India One Air near Rourkela, Odisha. The aircraft experienced a drop in engine oil pressure about 30 nautical miles from destination, leading to engine shutdown and a Mayday call. While attempting a forced landing in an open field after abandoning a riverbed option, the aircraft struck a treetop and a high-tension power line before impact. One passenger died and three others were seriously injured, along with both pilots. Investigators found signs of oil leakage, and CVR/FDR data along with engine components are under detailed examination. The findings remain preliminary. Rourkela, India: India’s aviation accident regulator has released its preliminary findings into the crash of an India One Air Cessna Caravan aircraft near Rourkela last month, confirming that low engine oil pressure led to an emergency landing attempt that ended in a fatal accident. According to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the accident occurred on January 10, 2026, at 0747 UTC when a Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX, registration VT-KSS, operating a scheduled Bhubaneswar–Rourkela service, was forced to land in an open field near Jalda village in Odisha. The aircraft, operated by India One Air, had departed from Biju Patnaik International Airport and was approaching Rourkela Airport when the crew observed a drop in engine oil pressure approximately 30 nautical miles from destination. The report states that the oil pressure showed a downward trend accompanied by reduced engine power. Following standard non-normal checklist procedures, the pilots shut down the engine and declared a Mayday with Rourkela Air Traffic Control, indicating their intention to attempt an emergency landing at the nearest suitable site. Investigators said the crew initially considered landing on a dry riverbed but abandoned the attempt due to insufficient altitude. They then selected an alternate open field that appeared free of major obstacles. However, during final approach, the aircraft struck a treetop and a high-tension power cable before impacting the ground. The impact caused substantial structural damage. The nose landing gear separated, the main landing gear deformed, and the forward fuselage suffered fragmentation. Investigators found oil stains along the fuselage belly extending toward the tail. No post-crash fire or smoke was observed. The accident resulted in the death of one passenger. Three other passengers sustained serious injuries. Both the pilot-in-command, aged 48, and the first officer, aged 41, also suffered serious injuries. The crew held valid commercial pilot licences, medical certificates, and were cleared by pre-flight breath analyser tests. Weather conditions at Rourkela at the time were reported as wind 060 degrees at 2 knots, visibility 7 km, no significant cloud, and QNH 1017 hPa. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) data have been downloaded and are under analysis. The engine has been secured for detailed examination. The AAIB has appointed accredited representatives from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada to assist in the investigation. The bureau reiterated that the purpose of the investigation is the prevention of future accidents and not to apportion blame or liability. The findings remain preliminary and subject to change pending further technical analysis.

Investigation

Preliminary Report Links Engine Oil Pressure Loss To Fatal India One Air Accident

February 19, 2026

JetBlue Flight Makes Emergency Return After Engine Issue, Smoke Reported In Cockpit SEO DES: No injuries among 122 onboard; one passenger treated for chest pain. Airport operations were briefly suspended, ground stop lifted around 7 p.m SOCIAL: Two separate aviation incidents in the United States on Wednesday prompted emergency returns and federal investigations. In Newark, a JetBlue Airbus A320 bound for West Palm Beach made an emergency return after an engine issue and smoke were reported in the cockpit, leading to an evacuation of 122 passengers and crew. No injuries were reported, though one passenger was treated for chest pain, and airport operations were briefly suspended before a ground stop was lifted around 7 p.m. In a separate incident in Houston, a Delta Air Lines flight returned shortly after takeoff due to an unruly passenger who attempted to approach the cockpit. The passenger was detained by police upon landing, and the flight later continued to Atlanta with a delay. The FAA is investigating both incidents. Image: 4300streetcar (Wikimedia) Video: JetBlue Newark, United States: A JetBlue Airways flight bound for West Palm Beach, Florida, made an emergency return to Newark Liberty International Airport on Wednesday evening after experiencing an engine failure and smoke in the cockpit, prompting the evacuation of all passengers and temporary disruption of airport operations. JetBlue Flight 543, operated on an Airbus A320, departed Newark at approximately 5:45 p.m. local time, but returned to the airport shortly after takeoff when the crew reported a significant mechanical problem, officials said. After landing safely and taxiing off the runway, the flight crew reported smoke in the cockpit and cabin. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) personnel directed an emergency evacuation of passengers and crew via the aircraft’s emergency slides onto a taxiway. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported among the 122 passengers and crew members, though one passenger was briefly treated for chest pains at a local hospital. The aircraft was subsequently removed from the taxiway to allow normal operations to resume. Airport authorities temporarily suspended flights inbound and outbound, issuing a ground stop that was lifted by around 7 p.m. local time. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates Newark Liberty International Airport, and the FAA did not immediately disclose the precise cause of the engine failure. The FAA confirmed an investigation into the incident is underway. In an official statement following the incident, JetBlue emphasized that safety remains its highest priority, adding it is working closely with federal authorities as they review the sequence of events. The emergency landing and subsequent evacuation briefly disrupted flight operations at one of the United States’ busiest aviation hubs. According to traffic tracking data, approximately 31% of arriving flights and 30% of departures at Newark were delayed during the disruption. Airport authorities urged travelers to check with their airlines for the latest flight status information due to the ripple effects of the incident on scheduling and ground operations. In a separate incident on Wednesday morning, Delta Air Lines Flight 2557, scheduled to depart from William P. Hobby Airport for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, was forced to return shortly after takeoff due to an unruly passenger whose actions prompted a police response. According to law enforcement and airline officials, the flight carrying 85 passengers and five crew members lifted off at about 5:25 a.m. local time when a passenger began exhibiting “unruly and unlawful behavior,” including physical confrontations with others onboard. The Houston Police Department was alerted after air traffic controllers reported that the individual attempted to approach the cockpit. While initial reports suggested a possible breach attempt, Delta Air Lines later clarified that the passenger did not make contact with or access the flight deck. The aircraft returned safely to Hobby Airport by around 5:40 a.m., where officers detained the male passenger without further incident. No serious injuries were reported. After the situation was resolved, the flight resumed service and later arrived in Atlanta approximately 90 minutes behind schedule. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed it will investigate.

Incidents

JetBlue Flight Makes Emergency Return After Engine Issue, Smoke Reported In Cockpit

February 19, 2026

Scandinavian Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing After Cabin Smoke Alert SEO DES: Smoke was caused after a power bank overheated with four to five crew exposed & assessed by medics after landing, while no passenger injuries were reported SOCIAL: A Scandinavian Airlines domestic flight diverted to Trondheim after smoke from an overheated passenger power bank filled the cabin. The A320neo, operating from Oslo to Tromsø, landed safely, with 4–5 crew checked for smoke exposure and no passenger injuries reported. Emergency teams removed the device on arrival, and the aircraft remained grounded for inspection before returning to service. The incident highlights growing safety concerns over lithium-ion batteries and stricter airline rules on carrying and using power banks onboard. Image: Anna Zvereva ( Flickr) Video: Scandinavian Airlines Trondheim, Norway: A Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) domestic flight was forced to make an emergency diversion to Trondheim Airport Værnes on Sunday after smoke from an overheated power bank in the passenger cabin prompted the crew to seek an immediate landing, authorities confirmed. Flight SK4416, operated by an Airbus A320neo registered SE-RUO, was en route from Oslo Airport Gardermoen to Tromso with 186 passengers on board when the crew reported the presence of smoke in the cabin shortly after midday. The aircraft was cruising at altitude when occupants alerted crew to unusual smoke and heat, leading the pilots to divert to the nearest airport as a precaution. Local authorities stated that the smoke originated from a passenger’s lithium-ion power bank, which exhibited signs of overheating and could not be cooled by standard in-flight containment procedures. Emergency response teams were activated on arrival at Værnes, where firefighters removed the device and secured the aircraft. Police operations manager Oystein Sagen said that four to five crew members were exposed to smoke and were evaluated by medical personnel after the aircraft landed safely. All were later discharged. There have been no confirmed injuries among passengers; medical assistance was offered on a precautionary basis. Initial confusion about the source of the smoke led to early, unverified reports suggesting a cockpit fire, but official statements clarified that the event originated in the main cabin. Lithium-ion batteries, like those found in portable power banks, are known to pose a fire risk if they experience thermal runaway, a rapid, uncontrollable rise in temperature that can produce smoke and toxic gases. Regulators and airlines globally treat such incidents with the highest priority due to the potential for rapid escalation at altitude. In recent months, aviation safety authorities have introduced tighter controls on the carriage and use of power banks. For example, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has prohibited the use of power banks during flight and requires that they be carried only in cabin baggage and remain accessible to crew in case of emergency. SAS’s own luggage guidelines specify that spare batteries and power banks must be transported in carry-on baggage, protected against short circuits, and not placed in overhead bins or used in flight. Airport operations at Trondheim were not significantly disrupted following the diversion. After inspection and removal of the defective device, the aircraft was reported to remain on the ground for approximately 26 hours before returning to service.

Incidents

Scandinavian Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing After Cabin Smoke Alert

February 18, 2026

Union Strike Disrupts Kenya’s Main Airport For Two Days Before Return-To-Work Deal SEO DES: Union leaders said the strike stemmed from delays in a CBA, pay, working conditions, contract terms, staff representation and unmet past agreements SOCIAL: A two-day strike by aviation workers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport disrupted domestic and international flights after union members walked out over unresolved labour grievances, including delays in a collective bargaining agreement, pay and working conditions. The action affected airlines such as Kenya Airways, IndiGo and Etihad Airways, causing cancellations and long delays. Following government-led talks, the Kenya Aviation Workers Union called off the strike on Feb. 17 after reaching a return-to-work agreement, with operations expected to normalise within 24 hours. Nairobi, Kenya: A strike by aviation workers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya’s largest and busiest aviation hub that began on Monday morning, Feb. 16, 2026, was resolved on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, after an agreement was reached between union leaders and the government, ending two days of travel chaos and flight disruptions. The industrial action started early on Feb. 16, 2026, when members of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) including air traffic control and other airport staff walked off the job, despite an attempt by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to block the strike through the courts. Union leaders said the strike was triggered by long-standing labour grievances, particularly delays in finalising a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), issues over pay, working conditions, contract terms, and staff representation, and the failure of authorities to honour parts of previous agreements with workers. The union had issued a seven-day strike notice before the walkout after the government and aviation authority failed to negotiate on the outstanding concerns. The strike paralysed flight operations at JKIA one of Africa’s most important aviation gateways and caused major delays and cancellations that affected both domestic and international travel. Airlines such as Kenya Airways reported air traffic control delays affecting both departures and arrivals, resulting in disrupted schedules. IndiGo cancelled its Mumbai–Nairobi–Mumbai service on Feb. 17, stranding hundreds of passengers, including Indian nationals trying to return home. Etihad Airways confirmed cancellations and delays on flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi due to the industrial action. Airport authorities implemented contingency plans and advised passengers to check flight statuses before travelling to the airport. Reports described backlogs in terminals, with some travellers stranded overnight and experiencing delays of up to six hours or more. After intensive talks involving the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the Ministry of Labour, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), the KCAA, and KAWU, an agreement was reached on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, leading the union to call off the strike and commit to a return-to-work formula. Transport Cabinet Secretary Davies Chirchir led mediation efforts, stressing the importance of maintaining stability in the aviation sector for Kenya’s economy. Under the deal, all parties agreed on an immediate resumption of duties and committed to addressing outstanding issues, including reviewing staff representation, job grading, and continued negotiations on labour concerns under the guidance of the Ministry of Labour. Following the agreement, airport authorities confirmed that operations at JKIA and other affected airports were resuming gradually, with airlines working to restore normal schedules. Kenya Airways said it expected flight operations to return to normal within about 24 hours of the strike’s end.

Airports

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

February 18, 2026

Investigation

Flawed Airspace Design, Oversight Failures Led To Fatal DCA Collision That Killed 67

February 18, 2026

BeOnd Signs LOI To Launch Bahrain Airline, Projects 1,200 Jobs And $1.5B Boost SEO DES: beOnd plans to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, serving leisure and business markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America SOCIAL: beOnd has signed a Letter of Intent with Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs to explore launching a Bahrain-based premium airline and obtain a local AOC. The project, formalised on 16 February 2026, aims to create over 1,200 direct jobs, support 6,000 indirect roles, and contribute up to $1.5 billion to Bahrain’s GDP within five years. The airline plans to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, expand premium connectivity across key global markets, and align with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 to strengthen the kingdom’s position as a regional aviation hub. Manama, Bahrain: beOnd, a premium leisure airline, has taken a significant step toward expanding its global footprint with a plan to establish an airline base in the Kingdom of Bahrain, following the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA). The agreement, formalised on 16 February 2026, will see beOnd explore the launch of a Bahrain-based airline and pursue a Bahraini Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Once operational, the airline intends to support Bahrain’s ambition to strengthen its status as a regional aviation hub, diversify its economy, and enhance international connectivity. According to official projections from beOnd, the venture could generate more than 1,200 direct high-skilled jobs spanning pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff. In addition, the initiative is expected to support over 6,000 indirect roles in related sectors such as tourism, hospitality and logistics. Over the first five years of operations, beOnd forecasts a contribution of $1.2–$1.5 billion to Bahrain’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The airline has also outlined plans to establish structured training programmes for aviation professionals, including simulator and maintenance facilities. These initiatives aim to position Bahrain as a centre of excellence for advanced aviation skills. Under the agreement, beOnd intends to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, serving both leisure and business markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America. The Bahrain base will be part of a broader network alongside the airline’s core operations in the Maldives and proposed subsidiaries in other regions. Established in late 2023, beOnd operates as a luxury leisure carrier with a fleet of narrow-body aircraft configured exclusively with premium cabins. The airline has grown its network from its Maldives hub to destinations including Dubai, Riyadh, Zurich, Munich and Milan. The expansion into Bahrain is part of beOnd’s multi-jurisdictional growth strategy, which also includes ongoing efforts to secure AOCs and operating rights in other markets. In late 2025, the airline began the process to launch a subsidiary in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The planned airline aligns with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification, private-sector growth and the development of specialised talent. The move underscores Bahrain’s commitment to expanding its aviation sector and increasing its global connectivity footprint.

Airlines

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

February 17, 2026

United Airlines Ferry Flight Diverts To Dublin After Mid-Atlantic Electrical Fault SEO DES: The crew detected a fault in the right engine’s IDG, switched to APU backup power, but cockpit electrical indications failed, raising reliability concerns SOCIAL: A United Airlines Boeing 767-300ER operating as ferry flight UA3907 from Munich to Newark diverted to Dublin on 15 February 2026 after an electrical system fault was detected mid-Atlantic. The issue involved the right engine’s Integrated Drive Generator, prompting the crew to switch to backup power and declare an emergency. The aircraft initially turned toward the UK before diverting to Dublin for operational and maintenance support. It landed safely without passengers onboard. The flight was cancelled on arrival. The aircraft is currently undergoing technical inspection before returning to service. Image: Acroterion (Wikimedia) Video: United Airlines Dublin, Ireland: A United Airlines Boeing 767-300ER operating as ferry flight UA3907 from Munich to Newark Liberty International Airport was forced to make an emergency diversion to Dublin Airport on 15 February 2026 after an electrical system fault emerged during the transatlantic segment of the flight. The aircraft, registration N657UA, was operating as a maintenance ferry flight repositioning the jet without passengers aboard when the crew detected a malfunction related to the right engine’s Integrated Drive Generator (IDG) shortly after reaching cruise altitude over the North Atlantic. The IDG is a key component that converts mechanical engine power into electrical energy for aircraft systems. After the fault was identified, the crew engaged the aircraft’s Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) to supply backup electrical power. However, cockpit indications of the aircraft’s electrical systems failed to display properly, raising concerns about the reliability of remaining systems. In accordance with international aviation procedures, the flight crew declared an emergency indicated by the universal Squawk 7700 transponder code and initially turned back toward the British Isles. Tracking data showed the aircraft initially set a diversion path toward London Heathrow but later altered course to Dublin, a decision likely influenced by operational considerations including maintenance support and logistical ease for aircraft recovery. The jet landed safely at Dublin Airport without incident and remained on the ground for technical inspection. According to flight records, the aircraft had been based at Munich Airport for several days prior to departure, where it underwent maintenance activity. The ferry flight was intended to return the aircraft to the United States for service deployment, but the electrical issue prevented the completion of that return journey. United Airlines confirmed that the flight was cancelled on arrival in Dublin and that the aircraft is being inspected by technical teams before any further operations. No injuries were reported, as there were no passengers on board.

Incidents

United Airlines Ferry Flight Diverts To Dublin After Mid-Atlantic Electrical Fault

February 17, 2026

India Has 25,001 Active Pilots As Fleet Growth Accelerates; Employment Data Missing SEO DES: Earlier data showed six major airlines employ 13,989 pilots, suggesting many licensed pilots are outside scheduled carriers or not on payrolls SOCIAL: India has 25,001 active licensed pilots, the government informed Parliament, based on data maintained by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for pilots under 65 with valid licences. The total includes 10,051 airline transport pilots, 12,480 commercial pilots, and smaller numbers across helicopter and private licence categories. However, the DGCA does not track employment status, meaning the figure reflects licensed manpower rather than pilots currently flying. Earlier parliamentary data showed that six major domestic airlines employ about 13,989 pilots, indicating a significant portion of licensed pilots operate outside scheduled airlines or are not on active payrolls. As India’s aviation sector expands rapidly with large aircraft orders, pilot training output is rising, with a record 1,628 CPLs issued in 2024. Experts say the key challenge is not just increasing numbers but ensuring pilots are operationally ready, while the absence of real-time workforce data remains a policy gap. Delhi, India: India currently has 25,001 active pilots, the government told Parliament, offering the latest official snapshot of the country’s licensed aviation workforce at a time when airlines are rapidly expanding fleets and networks. In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said the data is based on records maintained by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and includes pilots below the age of 65 who hold valid licences issued by the regulator. The figures reflect licence status only and not actual employment across airlines or other aviation operators. According to the government’s response, the total pool of 25,001 active pilots comprises: Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL – Aeroplane): 10,051 ATPL (Helicopter): 210 Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL – Aeroplane): 12,480 CPL (Helicopter): 777 Private Pilot Licence (PPL – Aeroplane): 1,477 PPL (Helicopter): 6 ATPL holders typically serve as captains on commercial airline operations, while CPL holders form the backbone of first officers, charter pilots, business aviation crews, and instructors. The Ministry clarified that the DGCA does not maintain centralised data on how many of these pilots are currently employed, unemployed, or actively flying. As a result, the official count represents licensed manpower rather than the number of pilots on airline rosters. This distinction is significant in the Indian context, where many licensed pilots may be between jobs, flying in general aviation, working overseas, or not actively employed due to market conditions or training costs. In a separate parliamentary reply earlier, the government had stated that six major domestic airlines together employed about 13,989 pilots, indicating that a substantial number of licensed pilots operate outside scheduled airlines or are not on active payrolls. The disclosure comes as India remains one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. Domestic airlines have placed record aircraft orders over the past two years, with hundreds of narrowbody and widebody jets scheduled for delivery through the next decade. Industry executives say the challenge is not just numbers but readiness ensuring newly licensed pilots are type-rated, line-trained, and operationally prepared for complex airline environments. On the supply side, pilot training output is rising. The DGCA issued a record 1,628 Commercial Pilot Licences in 2024, the highest annual figure so far, as new flight training organisations entered the market and existing academies expanded capacity. From a regulatory standpoint, the lack of real-time employment data remains a gap. While the DGCA tracks licences, medical validity, and renewals, it does not currently maintain a national employment registry for pilots. This makes it difficult for policymakers to precisely assess shortages, unemployment, or skill mismatches across the aviation sector. As India positions itself as a global aviation hub, experts say integrating licensing data with workforce planning will become increasingly important especially as airlines, training academies, and regulators attempt to balance safety, growth, and manpower sustainability in one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets.

India

India Has 25,001 Active Pilots As Fleet Growth Accelerates; Employment Data Missing

February 17, 2026

SunExpress B737 With 181 Onboard Suffers Landing Gear Collapse While Taxiing At Antalya SEO DES: SunExpress attributed the incident to a technical issue with the landing-gear strut and deployed a replacement aircraft. Authorities to probe the incident SOCIAL: A SunExpress Boeing 737-800 suffered a left main landing gear collapse while taxiing for departure at Antalya Airport, forcing the aircraft to rest on its left engine and be taken out of service. The jet, operating Flight XQ7646 to Gaziantep, was carrying 175 passengers and 6 crew, all of whom were safely evacuated without injuries. Airport emergency teams responded quickly as operations continued with brief disruption. SunExpress attributed the incident to a technical issue with the landing-gear strut and deployed a replacement aircraft. Turkish aviation authorities have launched an investigation into the failure. Image: Paul Spijkers (Flickr) Video: NTV Antalya, Turkey: A Boeing 737-800 passenger jet operated by Turkish leisure airline SunExpress experienced a significant landing gear failure while taxiing for departure from Antalya Airport on Friday afternoon, authorities and the airline confirmed. The aircraft, registration TC-SOB, was operating as Flight XQ7646 from Antalya to Gaziantep when the left-hand main landing gear unexpectedly collapsed on the taxiway shortly before it was scheduled to depart. The failure caused the aircraft to come to rest on its left engine, rendering the aircraft inoperable. According to official reports, 175 passengers and 6 crew members were on board at the time of the incident. Airport rescue and firefighting teams rapidly responded, and all occupants were evacuated safely via stairs without any reported injuries. Normal safety procedures were followed throughout the disembarkation. SunExpress issued a statement describing the event as the result of a “technical issue involving the landing-gear strut” during taxiing, emphasising that passenger and crew safety remains the airline’s top priority. The carrier confirmed that the aircraft was removed from service pending technical inspection. A replacement Boeing 737-800 completed the Antalya-Gaziantep service after a delay of approximately four to five hours. The incident triggered brief disruption at the airport, with emergency services securing the area while flight operations continued. Passengers were transferred to alternate aircraft after being evacuated. Visual and technical accounts from the scene show substantial damage to the aircraft’s left landing gear assembly. Preliminary assessments suggest the gear either bent or failed, causing the aircraft to settle onto its left engine cowling. Turkish aviation authorities have launched an investigation to determine the root cause. SunExpress, a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and the Lufthansa Group, operates a fleet predominantly composed of Boeing 737-800s. The involved aircraft, TC-SOB, was delivered to the airline in 2016 and had completed regular flights earlier in the day, including a scheduled arrival from Diyarbakir. Landing gear collapses during taxiing are relatively rare in commercial aviation, as gear systems are engineered with multiple redundancies and safety interlocks to prevent uncommanded retraction or structural failure while on the ground. The ongoing technical inspection and official investigation will focus on maintenance records, gear assembly integrity, and potential mechanical faults.

Incidents

SunExpress B737 With 181 Onboard Suffers Landing Gear Collapse While Taxiing At Antalya

February 16, 2026

DGCA Fines Air India ₹1 Crore For Flying A320 Eight Times Without Valid ARC Permit SEO DES: The DGCA in its order said the lapse eroded public confidence. Air India said the issue was voluntarily reported & corrective actions have been taken SOCIAL: India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, has fined Air India $110,350 (around ₹1 crore) after an Airbus A320 operated eight flights in November 2025 without a valid Airworthiness Review Certificate (ARC). The DGCA said the lapse eroded public confidence and held the airline’s accountable manager responsible. Air India said the issue was voluntarily reported, corrective actions have been taken, and the aircraft was grounded once the error was detected. The incident has added to regulatory scrutiny of the airline’s safety systems. Delhi, India: India’s civil aviation regulator has penalised Air India with a $110,350 (about ₹1 crore) fine after an Airbus A320 aircraft operated eight commercial flights without a valid Airworthiness Review Certificate (ARC), raising fresh concerns over airline safety compliance. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a confidential order on February 5 finding that the aircraft flew eight flights on November 24–25, 2025 including routes between New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad without the mandatory annual airworthiness permit that certifies an aircraft’s fitness to fly. In its order addressed to Air India Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson, the DGCA said the lapse had “further eroded public confidence and adversely impacted the safety compliance of the organisation.” The regulator held the airline’s “accountable manager” responsible for the breach and directed that the fine be deposited within 30 days of the order. The ARC is a critical regulatory clearance issued annually only after an aircraft undergoes detailed maintenance assessment, records verification and physical inspection to confirm conformity with prescribed safety standards. Operating without a valid certificate is considered a serious violation of civil aviation regulations. Air India acknowledged receipt of the DGCA order and stated that the incident was voluntarily reported to the regulator in late 2025. In its statement, the airline said that “all identified gaps have since been satisfactorily addressed and shared with the authority.” An internal investigation by the carrier attributed the occurrence to “systemic failures” within its compliance and oversight mechanisms. Reports indicate that pilots involved in the flights did not fully adhere to standard operating procedures before take-off, pointing to weaknesses in procedural enforcement. The implicated Airbus A320, registered VT-TQN, was returned to service after maintenance work during which its ARC inadvertently expired. The lapse remained unrecognised until flagged by engineering personnel, after which the aircraft was grounded and the matter reported to the DGCA. The fine comes amid heightened scrutiny of Air India’s safety culture, following a fatal Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash in June 2025 that claimed 260 lives. That accident triggered intensified surveillance by regulators and industry stakeholders.

Airlines

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

February 16, 2026

Colorado Plane Crash Kills 4 Onboard Near Steamboat, All Victims Identified By Police SEO DES: Investigators are reviewing weather, pilot actions and aircraft systems as the NTSB and FAA secure wreckage for engine and avionics analysis SOCIAL: A private Epic E1000 turboprop crashed into mountainous terrain near Steamboat Springs, United States, on February 13, killing all four people on board. The aircraft went down around 12:20 a.m. near Emerald Mountain while approaching Bob Adams Airport. The victims, all from Tennessee, were identified as Aaron Stokes, Jakson Stokes, Colin Stokes and Austin Huskey. The FAA and NTSB have launched a full investigation, with wreckage secured for analysis, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation. The aircraft had departed from Kansas City and was registered to ALS Aviation LLC. A preliminary report is expected in the coming weeks, with a final determination likely to take several months. Steamboat Springs, United States: A private single-engine aircraft crashed into mountainous terrain near Steamboat Springs in the early hours of February 13, killing all four people on board and triggering a federal investigation by U.S. aviation authorities. The six-seat Epic E1000 turboprop went down at around 12:20 a.m. local time on the south-facing slope of Emerald Mountain, close to Bob Adams Airport, in a remote and heavily wooded area. Emergency responders reached the site hours later and confirmed there were no survivors. According to preliminary information from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the aircraft was on approach to the airport when it crashed under circumstances that remain under investigation. The Routt County Coroner’s Office later identified the four victims, all residents of Tennessee: Aaron Stokes (47) - Founder of Shop Fix Academy and a prominent figure in the automotive repair industry. Jakson Stokes (21) - Son of Aaron Stokes. Colin Stokes (21) - Nephew of Aaron Stokes. Austin Huskey (37) - CEO of Huskey Building Supply, a family-owned construction materials company. Authorities confirmed that all four bodies were recovered from the crash site and that next of kin have been notified. The aircraft, registered to ALS Aviation LLC of Franklin, Tennessee, had departed earlier from Kansas City Downtown Airport and was en route to Steamboat Springs, according to FAA records and flight tracking data. The Epic E1000 is a high-performance turboprop aircraft capable of carrying up to six passengers. Investigators are focusing on the final moments of the flight, including weather conditions, pilot actions, and aircraft systems. The NTSB and FAA have launched a full investigation into the crash. Wreckage has been secured and will be transported for further examination, including engine and avionics analysis. A preliminary report is expected within several weeks, while a final probable cause determination could take several months.

Aircraft Crashes

Colorado Plane Crash Kills 4 Onboard Near Steamboat, All Victims Identified By Police

February 16, 2026

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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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