Airplane Geeks Podcast

The House fails to pass the ROTOR Act, and the competing ALERT Act is introduced. The military is shooting down drones with a laser, combat action in the Middle East is disrupting commercial flights, former President Biden flies commercial, Breeze Airways continues to expand, and United adds a new passenger requirement to its Contract of Carriage. Plus, more feedback on the Lockheed Constellation, and the passion for flying.

Aviation News

U.S. House rejects aviation safety bill after Pentagon abruptly withdraws support

When we talked about the ROTOR Act last week, we explained that the Senate unanimously passed the bill requiring ADS-B In and that a House vote was scheduled. Before the House vote, the Pentagon withdrew its support, saying that the bill could create “unresolved budgetary burdens and operational security risks.” The bill failed to meet the required two-thirds majority: 264 in favor and 133 opposed, with more than 130 Republicans voting against it.

Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said, “This bill will undermine our national security. Requiring our fighters and bombers and highly classified assets to regularly broadcast their location puts our men and women in uniform at risk.”

Rep. Sam Graves, R-Mo., the chairman of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, called the ROTOR Act an “unworkable government mandate” that would be “burdensome” to some pilots.

ALERT Act Aviation Safety Bill Introduced in U.S. House

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Graves and Rogers put their support behind their own bipartisan bill, known as the ALERT Act, or Airspace Location and Enhanced Risk Transparency Act. It is broader, more process‑driven, and relies more on future FAA rulemaking.

The ROTOR Act uses mandates and concentrates on collision‑avoidance and traffic‑awareness, especially mandatory ADS‑B In equipage for aircraft operating near airports, plus related airspace reviews and military‑civil coordination.​

The ALERT Act uses rulemaking to implement essentially all ~50 NTSB recommendations from the DCA midair, including tech, ATC staffing/training, helicopter routes, DCA‑specific procedures, and FAA safety culture reforms.

Military Laser Downs CBP Drone, Tiny TFR Established

When Federal Agencies Start Shooting at Each Other’s Drones, We Have a Real Airspace Problem

The Defence Department has a laser weapon that can shoot down drones. Recently, a TFR closed the airspace in El Paso due to a drone downing. Now, Congress has been briefed that along the Mexican border at Fort Hancock, Texas, a Defense Department laser weapon shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone. In response, the FAA issued a TFR for that area.

In a statement, three lawmakers said, “Our heads are exploding over the news that DoD reportedly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone using a high-risk counter-unmanned aircraft system.”

Also, “We said MONTHS ago that the White House’s decision to sidestep a bipartisan, tri-committee bill to appropriately train C-UAS operators and address the lack of coordination between the Pentagon, DHS and the FAA was a short-sighted idea. Now, we’re seeing the result of its incompetence.”

Hundreds of thousands of travelers stranded by flight disruptions after attack on Iran

Military combat in Iran and the surrounding region has forced the diversion and cancellation of flights. Airspace was closed by Israel, Qatar, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The United Arab Emirates announced a “temporary and partial closure” of its airspace. Reportedly, hundreds of thousands of travelers were impacted and either stranded or diverted to other airports. Important hub airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha were closed. Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad typically move about 90,000 passengers per day through those hubs.

Three US Fighter Jets Accidentally Shot Down by Kuwaiti Air Defenses

On 1 March 2026, three USAF F‑15E Strike Eagles were shot down over Kuwait by Kuwaiti air-defense systems during combat operations against Iran. U.S. Central Command described it as an apparent friendly‑fire incident; all six crew members ejected and were recovered.

Biden flies commercial from DCA and winds up stuck in delays like everyone else

Imagine getting settled into your seat on a commuter flight from DCA to Columbia, South Carolina, and realizing that your seatmate is a former President of the United States.

Breeze adding new nonstop options from Portland, Maine

Breeze Airways is adding new, summer seasonal nonstop flights from the Portland International Jetport to Akron/Canton and Cincinnati. Breeze is also adding new Breeze Thru service options, providing same plane, one-stop flights to Savannah, Georgia, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The Breeze Thru service to Savannah starts July 1, 2026, with the service to Myrtle Beach on July 2, 2026.

BreezeThru flights include a quick stop at an airport along the way to your destination. Just hang out. There’s no need to change planes or recheck bags. Your reservation will have a single confirmation number for both segments.

United Threatens To Kick Off Passengers Who Don’t Use Headphones

United Airlines has added a new passenger requirement to Rule 21 Refusal of Transport in its Contract of Carriage. Item 22 reads, “Passengers who fail to use headphones while listening to audio or video content.” Under the Contract of Carriage, “UA shall have the right to refuse transport on a permanent or temporary basis or shall have the right to remove from the aircraft at any point, any Passenger…” for the stated reasons.

United Airlines Contract of Carriage.

Delta Air Lines Contract of Carriage: U.S.

American Airlines Conditions of Carriage.

Singapore Airshow 2026

Brian Coleman brings us interviews from the Singapore Airshow. In this episode, he and Grant McHerron talk with Nigel Pittaway, the Editor of Australia Defence Magazine.

Mentioned

How Live ATC Went Live

Stories about Flying: Armchair Accident Investigators

Veteran airline stowaway strikes again, this time on a Newark-to-Milan flight

Aviation Safety Network, Focke-Wulf FWP-149D, N9145. 

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

We take a look at the Lockheed Constellation with one of the last pilots to have flown the L-1649A Starliner Constellation. In the news, the ROTOR Act and an ADS-B In mandate, GAMA’s annual Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report, the Government’s partial shutdown impact on the TSA, Government luxury jets, and a plan to market an Embraer aerial tanker. Also, an interview from the Singapore Airshow with a Product Development VP from Textron Aviation.

Lockheed Starliner L-1649A flying in TWA colors.

Guest

Philip Kemp has been an Airline Transport Pilot for 17 years, and he has more than a little experience with the Lockheed Constellation. That connection came about in the 1980’s after meeting Maurice Roundy, a Lockheed Constellation fan and collector of the airplane. Philip is one of the last pilots to have flown the L-1649A Starliner Constellation. 

Philip describes the development of the Lockheed Constellation and its variants, and how the airliner was obsoleted by jet transports. He tells us about his adventures ferrying Connies, the remaining examples that still exist, and the sale of Maurice’s Constellations, including an ultimately unsuccessful attempt by Lufthansa to make one of the aircraft flightworthy. Philip explains that N8083H is now at the TWA Hotel at JFK after a cosmetic restoration, N974R is with Kermit Weeks also for a cosmetic restoration, and that N7316C was shipped to Hamburg for the 100th Lufthansa anniversary.

Ferry flight from Sanford, Florida, to Kermit Weeks’ Fantasy of Flight. October 2001.

Philip started his career with Continental Express, and then he flew Part 135 jet charter with Charter Ops for two years. He returned to the airlines with SkyWest, then back to Continental Express (ExpressJet). Philip spent nine years with North American Airlines flying troops all over the world, and his last six years were with JetBlue. He was the Manager of Crew Training at Waltzing Matilda Aviation/Connect Airlines, a new Part 121 airline, flying Dash 8 Q400’s. Philip is now looking for a good teaching opportunity in the aviation world.

N8083H L-1649A at the TWA Hotel, JFK.

N7316C and N8083H next to Maurice Roundy’s airport house.

Maurice Roundy, the day before the last flight.

Lockheed 749 Constellation versus the Lockheed 1649A Starliner Constellation.

See Ralph M. Pettersen’s Constellation Survivors Website.

Aviation News

After DCA crash, Congress acts to mandate decades-old aircraft tracking tech

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) is an aviation system that uses GPS to determine aircraft position and also provides other flight information. ADS-B has two functions: ADS-B In and ADS-B Out. ADS-B Out broadcasts position and other identifying information, and has been required for many aircraft in the U.S. since 2020. ADS-B In receives transmissions from other aircraft and from ground stations.

The bi-partisan Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act (S.2503) would require ADS-B out aircraft to have ADS-B In to display information about nearby traffic in the cockpit. The ROTOR Act was unanimously passed by the Senate in December 2025, and at the time of recording, a vote in the House was scheduled.

House to vote Monday on ROTOR Act following deadly midair collision

After recording, the House voted on the bill, but it did not pass due to insufficient votes.

Under the ROTOR Act:

FAA must issue final rules for ADS‑B In equipage not later than 2 years after enactment, effective within 60 days of publication.

The final rule has a fleet-wide compliance deadline of December 31, 2031, for affected aircraft, with at most a 1‑year extension for certain operators.

FAA must start regular briefings and public reports on the rulemaking status within 180 days after enactment and then every 90 days.

GAMA Reports Strong 2025 for OEMs

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released its 2025 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report:

Airplane shipments in 2025 compared to 2024:

Piston airplanes flat (+0.6%)

Turboprops declined by 5.1%

Business jets increased 11.8% with 854 units.

The value of airplane deliveries for 2025 was $31.0 billion, an increase of 16.1%.

Helicopter shipments in 2025 compared to 2024:

Piston helicopters were down 2%

Turbine helicopters down 2% (preliminary)

The preliminary value of helicopter deliveries for 2025 was $4.7 billion, an increase of approximately 5.5%.

Homeland security reverses course on TSA PreCheck suspension

Citing staffing shortages caused by the partial government shutdown, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initially suspended the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs. Soon thereafter, DHS revised the directive in a social media post saying, “TSA PreCheck remains operational with no change for the traveling public. As staffing constraints arise, TSA will evaluate on a case-by-case basis and adjust operations accordingly.”

Chris Sununu, president and CEO of the trade association Airlines for America, said in a statement that the group “is deeply concerned that TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs are being suspended and that the traveling public will be, once again, used as a political football amid another government shutdown”.

Geoff Freeman, head of the US Travel Association, accused Democratic and Republican lawmakers of putting politics first. “Air travel is essential for our economy and daily life, and it’s disgraceful for travel to be used as leverage in political disagreements,” he said in a statement.

No Expense Has Been Spared’: Inside a Luxury Jet DHS Wants to Buy for Deportations

DHS has been leasing a Boeing 737 Max 8 featuring bedrooms, showers, a kitchen, four large flat-screen TVs, and a bar. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is asking the OMB to approve its purchase of the jet for $70 million. ICE says that it would be used for deportations and travel for Cabinet officials. A DHS spokesperson said, “at least one of the bedrooms is currently being converted for seating to prepare the aircraft to meet the demands of its deportation mission set.”

In a statement, a DHS spokesperson said, “This plane flies at 40% cheaper than what the military aircraft flies for ICE deportation flights—saving the American taxpayer hundreds of millions of dollars. This is part of Secretary Noem’s broader efforts to clamp down on inefficiencies and save taxpayer dollars.”

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Spends $200 Million of Taxpayer Money on Pair of Gulfstream G700 Private Jets During Government Shutdown

House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) and Homeland Security Subcommittee Ranking Member Lauren Underwood (IL-14) requested more information from the Secretary regarding the purchase, which does not align with earlier funding requests for the Department.

Northrop, Brazil’s Embraer partner on KC-390 to pitch US, others

Under a memorandum of understanding, Embraer and Northrop Grumman are looking at adding an autonomous boom refueling system to the KC-390 Millennium, which currently employs a hose and drogue system. A new boom would enable the tanker to refuel U.S. Air Force aircraft.

Singapore Airshow 2026

Brian Coleman brings us interviews from the Singapore Airshow. In this episode, he talks with Jimmy Beeson, Textron Aviation Inc. VP of Product Development.

Mentioned

Fantasy of Flight

Alaska Airlines’ 20-minute baggage guarantee

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Brian Coleman

Updates on the DCA midair collision, JetBlue software glitch, Air India B787 fuel control switch, injuries on United B777 flight, and Toronto CRJ-900 rollover. Also, the AA CEO’s message to employees, DOT mandate to purge DEI, Portland International Jetport passenger volume, Elliott Management and Southwest, and flight attendant carry-on bags. Plus, our first report from the Singapore Airshow.

Guest

Air Accident Updates

We look at some air accident and incident updates in the press:

NTSB Chair Slams FAA for Ignoring Repeated Warnings, Says Midair Collision Was Preventable

In this C-Span video, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy slams the FAA, saying that it let its guard down and ignored repeated warnings that ultimately led to the deadly midair collision near Washington Reagan National Airport on January 29, 2025, that killed 67 people. “We should be angry, because for years no one listened. This was preventable. This was 100 percent preventable,” Homendy says.

Passengers on JetBlue Plane That Plummeted When Flight Computer “Glitched Out” Sue Airbus for Negligence

The JetBlue A320 experienced a sudden “uncommanded loss of altitude,” initially attributed to a software glitch that Airbus believed could result from intense solar radiation. This led to an emergency worldwide recall in November 2025, with an estimated 6,000 A320-series aircraft affected.

Three passengers on that flight are now suing Airbus for allowing an “unreasonably dangerous” glitch in the system to go unchecked. Those passengers question the solar flare explanation and claim that JetBlue was aware of a recurring issue with the Elevator and Aileron Computer (ELAC) system.

No defect found in switch of jet grounded by Air India – regulator

Pilots on an Air India B787-8 noticed that during engine start, the fuel control switch did not “remain positively latched in the run position when light vertical pressure was applied”. This happened twice. The third time, the switch operated normally.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said that when the switches were operated according to Boeing’s recommended procedure, they were found to be “satisfactory”, staying at run instead of moving to cut-off. The DGCA reported that, when incorrectly handled, the switch would “move easily from run to cut-off”.

See also, Pilot alert prompts Air India checks on all Boeing 787 fuel control switchesby Rachel Chitra.

Three United Airlines Flight Attendants Seriously Injured After Air Traffic Control Failed To Alert Pilots Of Turbulence

The NTSB has released its final report on the February 10, 2024, incident where a United Airlines 777-200 experienced a sudden drop, seriously injuring three flight attendants and throwing several passengers and an unsecured baby into the ceiling. The NTSB concluded that a contributing factor was air traffic controllers’ failure to alert the pilots of turbulence in the area.

TSB Canada Releases Update on 2025 Toronto CRJ-900 Crash Investigation

Photo Credit: TSB Canada.

The accident occurred at Toronto/Lester B. Pearson International Airport (CYYZ) on February 17, 2025, when the CRJ-900 regional jet attempted to land and struck the runway hard, causing the right wing and tail section to separate from the fuselage. The plane flipped upside down and slid to a stop. The wreckage was transported to a hangar while the right wing, landing gear, wing box structure, and related parts were taken to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) Engineering Laboratory in Ottawa for testing.

The metallurgical analysis of the wing and landing-gear fractures is now being examined.

Recordings from the flight data recorder, cockpit voice recorder, quick access recorder (QAR), and the enhanced ground proximity warning system have been examined.

Data from prior flights on the same aircraft were also compared to the accident flight for context.

Evidence was collected from NAV CANADA’s Toronto surface movement guidance system and the airport’s closed-circuit television footage.

A full meteorological review, including wind data and soundings, has also been finalized to understand weather conditions at the time.

Simulator sessions have been run.

The full preliminary report is available here.

Aviation News

Under Pressure American Airlines CEO Robert Isom Tells Staff That Everything Will Be Alright In New Video Message

In a new video message to staffers, American Airlines chief executive Robert Isom says, “As we look forward to 2026, it’s with a lot of excitement and confidence. I know we’re going to do better financially and operationally. We have a plan to be solidly profitable this year, which will mean good things for our customers, our shareholders, and all of you.”

Isom articulated strategies concerning the customer experience, hub facility investments, maximizing the power of the AA network and fleet, new routes, new frontline team members, new aircraft, AAdvantage program changes, and doing a better job selling the AA product.

Trump’s U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Doubles Down on Purging DEI From Our Skies, Calls on Airlines to Affirm Pilot Hiring is Merit-Based

The FAA is issuing a new mandatory “Operations Specification” (OpSpec) requiring all commercial airlines to commit to merit-based hiring for pilots formally. The mandate (New Mandatory OpSpec A134, Merit-Based Pilot Hiring, for Certificate Holders Conducting Operations Under 14 CFR Part 121 [PDF]) is effective February 13, 2026.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said, “When families board their aircraft, they should fly with confidence knowing the pilot behind the controls is the best of the best. The American people don’t care what their pilot looks like or their gender—they just care that they are most qualified man or woman for the job. Safety drives everything we do, and this commonsense measure will increase transparency between passengers and airlines.” 

ALPA Statement on Pilot Training and Qualification Standards

Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), issued a statement that included:

“All ALPA pilots are trained and evaluated to the same uncompromising standard regardless of race, gender, or background. A pilot’s identity has no bearing on their ability to safely operate an aircraft. What matters is training, experience, and qualification — and on that front, there are no shortcuts and no compromises.

“At ALPA, our work to advance aviation safety never stops, and as always, ALPA airline pilots remain ready to safely transport passengers and cargo to their destinations. Safety is, and always will be, our number one priority.”

Portland International Jetport logs busiest year in its history

The Portland International Jetport had a record year in 2025, with more than 2.59 million passengers traveling through the airport. The previous record was 2.44 million in 2024. The Jetport says it became the first airport in New England to surpass its pre-pandemic passenger levels in 2023.

Southwest Airlines Turns a Corner as Activist Investor Elliott Walks Away

Elliott Management, an activist investor, began to acquire shares of Southwest stock in mid-2024. It bought enough shares to gain board representation and dictate the Airline’s strategic and financial changes. As a result, we saw paid assigned seating, baggage fees, expiring travel credits, and adjustments to its Rapid Rewards program. Southwest also looked at asset sales and balance sheet strategies to fund share buybacks.

But in late 2025, Elliott began reducing its stake, and by early February 2026, its ownership dropped to about 9 percent. Two Elliott representatives have resigned from the board at Southwest.

Southwest Airlines Now Faces a Flight Attendant Backlash As Hand Luggage Woes Grow

Southwest moved a dedicated overhead bin for crew members to the back of the plane, and flight attendants are not happy. Passengers sitting at the front of the plane who have paid more or have elite status find that bin space is an issue.

Singapore Airshow 2026

Brian Coleman interviewed several people at the Singapore Airshow. In this episode, he talks with Dan McQuestin, the Bell Country Manager in Australia.

Mentioned

“How LiveATC Went Live” by Rob Mark in the February 2026 issue of AIN Online.

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, Rob Mark, and Erin Applebaum.

The founder and CEO of Savvy Aviation explains the need for on-condition maintenance for GA, the proper roles of aircraft owners and mechanics, his Inspection Authorization training course, and his new Aviation Masters podcast. In the news, American Airlines is under fire from pilots and flight attendants, AA’s financial performance, the departure of AOPA’s CEO, a United Airlines lawsuit, and the Inspector General audit of air traffic controller training. Also, an Airplane Geeks host announces his new aviation podcast.

Guest

Mike Busch is the founder and CEO of Savvy Aviation, which provides aircraft owners, operators, and maintenance professionals with expert guidance grounded in data-driven, reliability-centered maintenance principles. Through maintenance management, education, and advocacy, Savvy helps the General Aviation community improve safety, reliability, and cost control.

Mike Busch, Savvy Aviation founder and CEO.

Mike argues that general aviation aircraft are often over-maintained, wasting both owners’ time and money while straining already limited mechanic capacity. He believes the industry should shift its focus toward on-condition, or reliability-centered, maintenance. Mechanics, he says, need to be trained to think critically—not just follow the manufacturer’s book. By applying reliability-centered maintenance and working on-condition, our existing mechanics could be more efficient. Mike also outlines what a healthy, collaborative relationship between owners and mechanics should look like.

SavvyAviation has introduced the free, FAA-accepted SavvyCertified training course designed for mechanics studying for Inspection Authorization renewal. Mike reports that many aircraft owners signed up for the course and find it valuable. He also has a new podcast called Aviation Masters.

Mike is a well-known aviation writer, teacher, aviation type club tech rep, aircraft-owner advocate, and entrepreneur. He assists aircraft owners with their maintenance problems through his lectures, articles, and books. Mike is a National Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year and has previously appeared in Episode 446 (April 5, 2017) and in Episode 667 (August 25, 2021).

Aviation News

Allied Pilots Association Delivers Scathing Ultimatum to American Management

In a letter to the American Airlines Group Board of Directors, the Allied Pilots Association (APA) Board of Directors says, “Our airline is on an underperforming path and has failed to define an identity or a strategy to correct course” and “…it is the result of persistent patterns of operational, cultural, and strategic shortcomings.”

“For more than a year, APA has voiced concerns regarding management’s ability to turn the corner. Management has been given repeated opportunities to articulate a credible strategy and demonstrate measurable improvement. Those opportunities have passed without meaningful change. Despite repeated assurances, the operation continues to struggle under predictable stressors, exposing systemic weaknesses in preparation, execution, and decision making. These consequences are shouldered by our customers and employees every day. “

“These failures have negatively impacted the financial performance of our company and frustrated all stakeholders, to include shareholders, for far too long.”

“American is no longer best in class financially, operationally, or in customer service. The pilots of American want our company to win and dominate the competition, not just survive and compete. Our careers are intrinsically tied to the fate and performance of this once-great airline.”

The Allied Pilots Association (APA) is the collective bargaining agent for American Airlines (AA)  pilots. Founded in 1963 and representing more than 16,000 pilots, the APA says it is the world’s largest independent pilots’ union.

“Shame On You”: American Airlines Flight Attendants Call for Shareholder Coup to Oust CEO

Unlike the APA, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) is calling for American Airlines’ chief executive, Robert Isom, to step down. In an internal memo addressed to Isom, APFA Chicago O’Hare base president Justin Patterson says, “I would like to say, sleeping on floors is NOT normal. Shame on you for trying to normalize this inhumane treatment. Doing the same thing on repeat and expecting different results [is] the definition of insanity.” 

Patterson asks, “Do you intend on running this airline with piss poor planning and posting minuscule profits again in 2026?” And “This company failed more than just the Flight Attendants… they failed everyone who works here. American Airlines failed our shareholders. They were derelict in their duties to our shareholders.”

APFA is the official crew union that represents more than 28,000 AA flight attendants.

Passengers Left Stunned By Miniature Tray Tables on American Airlines New Long-Haul A321XLR

American Airlines flight attendant Heather Poole has posted on X photos of the new Economy cabin tray tables. Table depth is half what you’d normally expect from a tray table. A standard laptop will overhang the smaller tables, and the standard AA long-haul meal tray will as well. The table does not fold out or extend.

Pressure mounts on American Airlines CEO as carrier lags rivals

In 2025, Delta Air Lines posted $5 billion in net income with a 7.9% profit margin. United Airlines posted $3.3 billion in net income with a 5.7% margin. American Airlines made $111 million last year with a 0.2% margin.

AOPA’s Hiring a Crisis Communications Firm

AOPA’s board has reportedly hired a crisis‑management firm on a $250,000 retainer to handle intense backlash over the abrupt departure of CEO Darren Pleasance on February 4, 2026.

Off-Duty FAA Inspector Claims He Got Lifetime Ban from United After He Pointed Out Alleged Safety Concerns

Paul Asmus said that after a May 2022 flight where he pointed out his safety concerns, United removed him from the flight and gave him a lifetime travel ban. Asmus is suing United for $12.75 million in damages. The civil suit claims loss of wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Asmus, an FAA Inspector but off-duty, claims that he noticed a “torn seat-back pocket at his assigned seat,” which “impaired the ability to secure and access the emergency briefing card” and a passenger standing in the aisle while the aircraft pushed back from the gate. Asmus believed that he had an obligation to report the violations he observed and took photographs for an FAA report.

Audit Initiated of Air Traffic Controller Training at the FAA Academy

The U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General announced the initiation of an audit. The Memorandum, Audit Announcement | Air Traffic Controller Training at the FAA Academy [PDF] (Project ID 26A3002A000), dated February 5, 2025, states that:

“…the Academy is facing considerable challenges with training, including a shortage of qualified instructors, training capacity limitations, an outdated curriculum, and high training failure rates. Given the importance of increasing the number of certified controllers to safely manage the NAS, we are initiating this audit. The audit objectives will be to assess (1) FAA’s efforts to address the Academy instructor shortages, training limitations, and trainee failure rates and (2) the Academy’s progress with updating the air traffic controller training program curriculum.”

The OIG plans to begin the audit “in the coming weeks.”

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) works within the Department of Transportation (DOT) to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of DOT programs and operations and to detect and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. 

See the OIG Active Audits list.

Mentioned

Stories About Flying podcast from Rob Mark.

Aviation is an industry brimming with adventure and discovery at every turn. Award‑winning aviation journalist and Airplane Geeks co‑host Rob Mark invites listeners to enjoy captivating stories from a lifetime of aviation. Drawing on more than 50 years of experience flying for airlines, corporate and charter operations, and teaching as a flight instructor, Rob also reflects on his early days as an FAA and U.S. Air Force tower and radar controller. Along the way, he’ll share remarkable stories from fellow aviators and respected podcasters who bring their own perspectives to the fascinating world of flight.

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

FAA reorganization and shutdown prep, Airbus A220 stretch, certification as a trade tool, UPS MD‑11 retirement, 777X engine snag, fatal Challenger crash, iconic aircraft, new NASM galleries, aviation career issues, aviation-themed music, and a future DC‑3/CH‑47 fly‑in.

Aviation News

FAA Adds Departments, Shuffles Roles

The new FAA reorganization differs from the previous structure mainly by centralizing safety oversight, creating new modernization and advanced technology offices, and consolidating internal support functions under new top-level offices.

A new, agency‑wide Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) Organization implements a single safety system and risk-management strategy across all FAA lines of business, rather than having safety functions and metrics siloed in multiple offices as before.

An Airspace Modernization Office is dedicated to rolling out the “brand‑new air traffic control system” and overseeing broader NAS modernization, which previously was handled within the Air Traffic Organization and other units rather than a single, focused office.

An Office of Advanced Aviation Technologies integrates UAS, eVTOL, AAM, electric, and supersonic aircraft into the NAS. These functions were formerly spread among UAS integration, NextGen, and various certification/AVS branches.

A new Administration and Finance Office consolidates the functions of finance, information technology, and human resources. Previously, they were distributed across multiple lines of business and staff offices.

A Policy and Legal Office pulls together policy, legal, stakeholder engagement, financial assistance, and the agency’s rulemaking/regulatory office. Previously, rulemaking and policy lived mainly within Aviation Safety and other distinct policy offices.

The Administration and Finance Office, Policy and Legal Office, Air Traffic Organization, and the new safety and modernization offices all report to the Administrator.

Shutdown Plan for FAA Involves 10K Furloughs

The FAA’s plan for the short-lived partial government shutdown was to furlough more than 10,000 FAA workers and withhold pay for 13,835 air traffic controllers.

Exclusive: Airbus to kickstart pre-sales for a larger A220 jet, sources say

Airbus is considering launching an A220 stretch – the A220-500 with around 180 seats. This is a “simple stretch,” meaning the same wings, the same engines, and a longer fuselage. The Airbus Board approval is required before the A220-500 can be formally launched.

Trade War Skies: Understanding Trump’s 2026 Decertification Order on Canadian Aircraft

In a January 30, 2026, social media post, President Donald Trump announced the “decertification” of all Canadian-manufactured aircraft if Gulfstream aircraft were not certified by Canada. The President alleged that Canada has “wrongfully, illegally, and steadfastly” refused to certify U.S.-made G500, G600, G700, and G800 jets. If Transport Canada did not act immediately, a 50% tariff would be implemented. Over 5,400 Canadian-built planes are registered in the U.S. This sent shockwaves, if not panic, throughout the industry.

With time, clarification has come: The order would apply to new aircraft airworthiness certificates and wouldn’t ground the fleet.

The IAM (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) urged a separation of safety regulation and political grievances. “You can’t weaponize the certification process,” said union leaders, emphasizing that aviation safety should remain an independent pillar of global travel.

Some feel Transport Canada is holding off on certifying the G700 and G800 mainly because they are not willing to mirror the FAA’s temporary fuel‑icing exemption. The Canadian regulator wants the full cold‑weather and icing compliance demonstrated first.

UPS won’t resurrect MD-11 fleet after deadly crash, takes $137M charge

UPS is retiring its fleet of 27 MD-11 aircraft and, in the process, writing off $137 million after-tax. The MD-11s will be replaced with twin-engine Boeing 767-300 cargo jets. In response to the grounding of the MD-11 fleet, UPS repositioned some aircraft from outside the US, expanded transportation by truck, and leased planes from partner airlines.

During an earnings call, Chief Financial Officer Brian Dykes said, “Over the next fifteen months, we expect to take delivery of 18 new Boeing 767 aircraft, with 15 expected to deliver this year. As new aircraft join our fleet, we will step down the leased aircraft and associated expenses. We believe these actions are consistent with building a more efficient global network positioned for growth, flexibility and profitability.”

Boeing’s certification ‘hangover’ drags on with new 777X issue

Also, Boeing has identified an engine durability issue with the General Electric GE9X engines that power the 777X, although CEO Kelly Ortberg says this will not impact the first 777X delivery in 2027. Also, Ortberg signalled to investors that the company plans to increase 737 MAX production this year to 47 from 42 planes per month. Boeing has been preparing a fourth MAX production line in Everett to produce 737 MAX 10s, although the aircraft has yet to receive certification. Boeing posted job openings for the line, and the tooling is complete.

Tracing the hours after a fatal plane crash in Bangor

The Bombardier Challenger 600‑series business jet crashed during takeoff from Bangor International Airport in a snowstorm, killing all six people on board and triggering a complex, weather‑hampered investigation. The business jet was operating a private flight from Bangor to Europe with two crew and four passengers from the Houston area.

The plane had been deiced and was cleared for takeoff on runway 33 around 7:40–7:45 p.m., in heavy snow, with visibility down to about three‑quarters of a mile and several inches of snow on the ground. Within roughly a minute of takeoff clearance, controllers halted all traffic after the aircraft crashed on or near the runway, coming to rest inverted and on fire.

Possible lines of inquiry include:

Wing contamination and ice buildup are known risk factors that have contributed to past Challenger‑series accidents.

Aircraft performance and whether the wing stalled on takeoff.

Deicing procedures and timing relative to takeoff, including whether holdover times were exceeded.

Crew qualifications, training, and recent duty history.

Mechanical condition of the aircraft and any anomalies captured on the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which have been sent to the NTSB in Washington.

Mentioned

National Air and Space Museum Announces Plans To Celebrate 50 Years

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum opened on July 1, 1976, as a gift to the nation for the U.S. bicentennial. Five new galleries will open to the public on the museum’s 50th anniversary, July 1, 2026, and in time for the nation’s 250th anniversary. 

Galleries opening July 1, 2026:

Flight and the Arts Center

Jay I. Kislak World War II in the Air

U.S. National Science Foundation Discovering Our Universe

RTX Living in the Space Age

Textron How Things Fly

Galleries opening in the autum 2026:

At Home in Space (Oct. 30)

Modern Military Aviation (Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11)

This completes the museum’s multi-year renovation.

Soar Together Family Day at Innovations in Flight: World War II on the Homefront

Check this site for information about the National Air & Space Museum’s annual Innovations in Flight event.

The DC-3 Society is planning an inaugural DC-3 Society DC-3 Fly-In. Date and location TBD. See the January 2026 Newsletter.

Video: 737 St. Erasmus’ Airshow, Full Music Album, by SPEED BRAKE ARMED

https://youtu.be/lcY3uU8uG2E

Video: 737 Airshow America, by SPEED BRAKE ARMED.

https://youtu.be/-Sl5WvWRhWo

Video: HARS CONNIE – The Years Fly Past – Wings Over Illawarra 2016

https://youtu.be/duSOTbanz-8?si=13bcDNa5Sfv9JgPq

Music

In a blast from the AGP past, Brother Love provides opening and closing music from the Album Of The Year CD. (On Facebook.)

Hosts this Episode

Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.