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Date:16/04/2023
Another delay for Boeing
Boeing has announced that a new production issue has emerged, which will delay deliveries of the 737 MAX aircraft by an estimated three to four months.
The company said that the issue, related to machining a high-lift system part on its 737 MAX production line, was discovered during a recent operational review and required additional labour. As such, the affected parts must be inspected and/or reworked before they can be certified and delivered to customers.
Boeing also revealed that while some affected 737 MAX aircraft had already been built and shipped before this discovery, further inspections may need to be performed on those jets once delivered. This could involve additional repair or replacement work for components at risk of failure due to the production issue.
This is another setback for Boeing’s embattled 737 MAX series, grounded worldwide since 2019 due to safety concerns linked to two fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. It is unclear how this news may impact airlines’ plans for returning the type into service in 2021; however, many carriers are reportedly evaluating their options in anticipation of further delays.
Firefly, to replace Malaysia Airlines’ majority of its domestic flights in Borneo
Malaysia Airlines has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Firefly, has taken over most domestic flights in Borneo.
The move comes as part of restructuring efforts by the airline, which is looking to simplify operations and focus more on international routes. According to officials at Malaysia Airlines, Firefly will operate all of the carrier’s domestic flights within Sabah and Sarawak – two Malaysian states located on the island of Borneo – while Malaysia Airlines will continue to serve destinations outside of Borneo with larger aircraft.
Firefly is expected to benefit from the new arrangement, as it can now expand its network into an area with high demand for air travel. The airline had previously served only four regional destinations: Kota Kinabalu, Mulu National Park, Sandakan and Tawau. With this new agreement with Malaysia Airlines, Firefly can expand its route network further into the region and tap into new markets.
This partnership is yet another example of how airlines are turning to partnerships and alliances to make operations more accessible and efficient during these difficult times for air travel. It also highlights how important it is for carriers to have multiple strategies in place to ensure their future survival.
REX planning ahead?
Regional Australia Airlines has announced its acquisition of a significant stake in an electric propulsion start-up firm.
The Australian airline, known for its short-haul operations within the country, says the move will allow it to explore eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) technology opportunities. The start-up has been working on developing its electric aircraft technologies since 2019.
The investment marks a significant step forward for Regional Australia Airlines as it looks to become more sustainable in its operations. Electric aeroplanes are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower emissions and reduced operating costs, making them attractive alternatives to fossil fuel-powered aircraft.
Regional Australia Airlines plans to use the eVTOL technology in existing and new networks, allowing customers to enjoy shorter flight times over shorter distances. The company also aims to streamline ground operations by deploying smaller aircraft fleets and reducing turnarounds between flights.
The acquisition of this stake by Regional Australia Airlines will mark a significant development for clean air travel within Australia, offering new options for those looking for efficient and environmentally friendly solutions when travelling domestically and internationally.