Welcome to another series of Week in Review! Let’s look at the major aviation news this week!

British Airways A380 on a 5 hour ‘flight to nowhere’ 

A British Airways A380 aircraft bound for London-Heathrow from Singapore landed back at Singapore Changi Airport after 5 hours after a technical issue required the flight to turn back. The aircraft had to dump its fuel onboard to reach the maximum landing weight, before being able to land. The flight, BA12, was originally delayed by 4 hours due to an issue with the aircraft’s weather radar and returned to the stand for repairs. After the issue was resolved on the ground, the plane took off, bound for London-Heathrow again. However, the issue recurred mid-flight, resulting in the aircraft having to dump fuel before returning back to Singapore Changi Airport. This ordeal resulted in passengers being on a 5 hour ‘flight to nowhere’, landing back at Singapore Changi Airport. 

Royal Malaysian Navy Helicopter mid-air collision 

Ten people were killed after a collision between two Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) Helicopters over Lumut Naval Base, Perak. The crash was between an a Eurocopter Fennec Military Chopper from 502 Squadron and a Augusta Westland AW139 Maritime Operations Helicopter from 503 Squadron. Both helicopters were part of an aerial display rehearsal to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the TLDM, and were reportedly in a combined rehearsal for the first time. The AW139 crashed into the stairs of the TLDM Stadium, while the Fennec crashed into a swimming pool in the Naval Base, injuring one personnel. In light of this disaster, the Malaysian Higher Education Ministry announced measures to fund the higher education of the children of the victims, including RM1000 (USD $208), which will be credited into their National Education Savings Schemes account. Investigations on the crash are still ongoing, 

Indigo places an order for 30 Airbus A350-900 wide body aircraft. 

Indigo, an Indian carrier, has placed an order for 30 Airbus A350-900, becoming the latest airline to be ordering the widebody jet. This comes after Indigo placed a largest single aircraft order by an airline for 500 aircraft in June 2023 so as to ensure that it meets its ambitious expansion plans. Currently, the only widebody aircraft operated by Indigo airlines are the two Boeing 777s which are leased from Turkish Airlines. The exact configuration of the aircraft are still being decided, with the aircrafts scheduled to begin deliveries in 2027. 

Emergency Exit falls off Boeing 767

A Delta Airlines flight, en route to Los Angeles from New York, was forced to make an emergency landing after an emergency slide detached from the right wing emergency exit mid-flight. Originally reported by pilots as an alert on the plane’s overwing emergency exit, together with an unusual sound near the wing, the Boeing 767 aircraft made an emergency landing back at John F Kennedy Airport in New York and landed safely. Upon landing, a closer observation showed that the overwing emergency raft had been detached from the aircraft. The Boeing 767 in question has been taken out of service by Delta Airlines and would be ‘thoroughly evaluated’. The cause for the separation between the slide and aircraft is still unknown, and investigations to find the cause are still ongoing. 

Ten people were killed after a collision between two Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) Helicopters over Lumut Naval Base, Perak. 

In a statement, TLDM said ‘All victims were confirmed dead at the scene and sent to the Lumut Naval Base Military Hospital for Identification’ 

The helicopters, a Eurocopter Fennec Military Chopper from 502 Squadron and a Augusta Westland AW139 Maritime Operations Helicopter from 503 Squadron, both of which are used by the TLDM, were part of an aerial display rehearsal to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the TLDM. In a video circulating on local media, one of the helicopters seems to have impacted the tail rotor of the other helicopter, after which both aircraft entered a spin. Debris could be seen right after the contact. The AW139 crashed into the stairs of the TLDM Stadium, while the Fennec crashed into a swimming pool in the Naval Base. 

TLDM also mentioned in the same statement that an investigation body would be formed so as to determine the cause of the incident. In light of the incident, TLDM’s 90th Anniversary Celebrations would be postponed, with prayers to be held for the victims. 

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and global travel continues to rise, airports play a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of people and goods across the globe.

In 2024, the largest airports in the world continue to serve as bustling hubs of activity, offering a glimpse into the sheer scale and complexity of modern air transportation infrastructure. These airport parking , which represent the possibilities of contemporary aviation and function as essential hubs in global travel networks, range in size from expansive terminals to vast networks of runways.

In this article, we will explore the ten largest airports in the world in 2024, highlighting their key features, significance, and the role they play in shaping global air travel. From major aviation hubs in established metropolises to emerging airports in rapidly growing regions, each of these airport tsa precheck contributes to the seamless operation of the global air transportation system, connecting people and cultures across continents.

10 largest airports in the World

American Airlines Revamped Pet and Bag Policy

United Airlines Flight Diverts, As Toilet Overflow In Cabin

B737-8 Collides with Dogs on Runway During Takeoff 

China’s Expanded Visa-Free Access for 6 European Countries

Saudi Arabia Set to Unveil World’s Largest Airport by 2030

View all stories

Hawaiian Airlines launched Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency broadband internet onboard one of its Airbus A321neos, N228HA, on a flight from Honolulu to Long Beach, making it the first major carrier in the world to do so.

As the A321neo aircraft are brought online over the next several months, the carrier’s Wi-Fi will be available on a few of them. It is free of charge and accessible as soon as passengers board the aircraft, eliminating the need for lengthy registration forms or complicated payment portals.

Hawaiian’s new in-flight internet connection is fast enough to enable connected activities like gaming, streaming, and other activities that are typically done at home—even when flying across the furthest reaches of the Pacific Ocean.

Hawaiian and Starlink carried out testing, including live flights, to verify optimal performance. These tests assessed connection in various scenarios and pinpointed areas for user experience enhancement.

Hawaiian is implementing the technology throughout its long-haul fleet in collaboration with Starlink. By spring, the airline plans to install and turn on antennas on all eighteen of its A321neo aircraft. By the end of the year, it plans to do the same with its A330s, and then with its new flagship, the Boeing 787-9. The service will astonish and thrill passengers when they board their planes until it is made available to the entire fleet.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX has reportedly acquired a Boeing 737-800 that was previously operated by Air China, according to records and planespotter footage. The aircraft, registered as N154TS, was observed landing at Los Angeles International Airport with a distinct grey livery, drawing attention from onlookers.

Public records from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reveal that the jet is now owned by Falcon Aviation Holdings LLC. Notably, the address listed for Falcon Aviation Holdings matches SpaceX’s headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The registration of N154TS under Falcon Aviation Holdings occurred in August 2023, following its retirement by Air China in July 2022. The aircraft had been parked at Lake Charles Chennault until mid-December 2023.

It’s worth mentioning that Falcon Aviation Holdings, which owns this Boeing 737, shares the registration address with SpaceX in Hawthorne, CA. Interestingly, SpaceX’s Gulfstream Aerospace executive jets are registered under Falcon Landing, a sister Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) associated with the same corporate address.

The history of the Boeing 737-800 reveals that it was originally delivered to Air China approximately 21.6 years ago. After a decade of passenger service, Air China converted the aircraft into a freighter configuration. The current status of its configuration and its intended use by SpaceX remain unclear.

This acquisition stands out as a unique addition to SpaceX’s fleet, considering the company’s renowned focus on space exploration and transport. The purpose of acquiring a commercial airliner like the Boeing 737-800 by SpaceX raises intriguing questions about potential modifications and applications within the context of the company’s broader operations.

At times, the cabin crew assumes pivotal roles in ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers during flights. Their responsibilities extend beyond routine tasks, as they undergo training to address critical situations such as human trafficking and other illicit activities that may transpire within the confines of an aircraft.

A rare incident unfolded aboard an Indigo aircraft, where the courageous cabin crew member, Ms. HT Vanlalruati, played a pivotal role in aiding law enforcement to identify and apprehend the culprit responsible for transporting illegal drugs.

Indigo issued a statement expressing profound pride in individuals like Ms. Vanlalruati, emphasizing how her unwavering dedication and exceptional efforts contribute significantly to upholding the airline’s highest safety standards. The airline expressed heartfelt appreciation for her noteworthy contribution.

The Mizoram Police also lauded the exemplary efforts of Ms. HT Vanlalruati, who serves as the Executive Security at Indigo Airlines at Lengpui airport. Her outstanding role in the seizure of a substantial quantity of Crystal Meth and the detection of live .22 ammunition did not go unnoticed.

The Mizoram Police, recognizing her invaluable assistance, presented her with a letter of appreciation and a monetary reward of Rs 5,000. Mizoram DGP Anil Shukla commended Ms. Vanlalruati for her pivotal role in assisting them in seizing drugs worth Rs 25.49 crore from two Myanmar nationals and uncovering ammunition from a passenger originating from Manipur.

The acknowledgment underscores the collaborative efforts between airline staff and law enforcement in ensuring the safety and security of air travel.

• – easyJet is offering new luggage collection, delivery, and door-to-door services in collaboration with Airportr
• – Customers can now choose to check in their luggage from home, skip bag drop on departure and breeze past baggage collection on arrival.
• – The service has initially been introduced for customers flying from London Gatwick and Geneva and will also be included for easyJet FLEXI fare customers. 
• – First 300 bookers of the new services will receive a 30% discount by using the code 30OFFAIRPORTRLAUNCH

Europe’s leading airline, easyJet, has launched a new luggage collection, delivery and door-to-door service in partnership with baggage collection and delivery specialist, Airportr, providing passengers travelling from London Gatwick and Geneva the option to check in their luggage from home, skip bag drop on departure and breeze past baggage collection on arrival.

The airline has partnered with Airportr to introduce this new choice to help make travel even easier, following research that showed 40% of easyJet customers would be interested in these services when they travel to and from their flight.

The airline will initially offer three services for customers at London Gatwick and Geneva airports:

1. Departure: customers flying from London Gatwick or Geneva can now check in their bags from a designated pick-up point like your home office or hotel, which will be collected by an accredited driver and then collected from the baggage belt on arrival at their destination.
2. Arrival: Customers arriving into Geneva from any easyJet airport can book for a delivery of their bags to their final destination, like their home or hotel.
3. Door-to-door: customers flying from London Gatwick to Geneva can book a door-to-door service – a totally seamless luggage experience that means customers can check in their bags from home and sees them delivered to their final destination.

easyJet also becomes the first airline to include the service in a bundle fare, meaning FLEXI fare customers flying from London Gatwick and Geneva have the service included in their booking.

The services are available for flights to any of easyJet’s destinations across Europe from the airline’s biggest UK base London Gatwick, and from Switzerland’s largest airport, Gevena, from just £37 at www.airportr.com/en/easyjet. The first 300 customers will receive 30% off their booking by using the code 30OFFAIRPORTRLAUNCH

· The first post-pandemic Embraer China Regional Aviation Forum will be held in Qingdao 7-8 November.

·150 participants from home and abroad.

·The forum pools the wisdom and experience of the most qualified and knowledgeable people on a variety of topics ranging from regional aviation market development to successful business models and experience sharing for airlines.

On November 6th, 2023, in Qingdao, China, the first post-pandemic Embraer China Regional Aviation Forum is returning as China’s civil aviation market continues to grow, fueled by rising domestic demand.

6th China Regional Aviation Forum (RAF 2023)

Embraer is organizing the 6th China Regional Aviation Forum (RAF 2023) in the city of Qingdao from November 7th to 8th, 2023. The event’s theme is “Connectivity and Differentiation – New Momentum in Regional Aviation Development.”

The forum is set to welcome over 150 participants from government agencies, domestic and overseas airlines, airports, lessors, institutes, trade associations, and other relevant organizations.

Speakers will include airline executives, industry experts, and think tanks, who will lead discussions on various topics, including the development of the global and China regional aviation market, successful business models, and sharing experiences among airlines.

Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, stated, “Embraer is providing a platform through the forum that gathers the wisdom and experience of the most qualified and knowledgeable individuals to discuss and debate how to expand regional networks and boost connectivity.

The key is to offer efficient and rightsized aircraft to build China’s connectivity. The E2, which complements China’s indigenous products perfectly, is the ideal aircraft for achieving this, as it will connect second and third-tier cities, as well as remote regions.

China Civil Aviation embrace a more sustainable aviation future

With both the E190-E2 and E195-E2 certified by CAAC, we are confident about our prospects in China, supporting growth and helping China Civil Aviation embrace a more sustainable aviation future.”

Guo Qing, Managing Director and VP Commercial Aviation at Embraer China, commented, “We believe the regional market is a key driver of future growth. There are one billion people living in China who have never taken a flight.

China Civil Aviation Authority places significant importance on the integration of the overall network, connecting trunk and regional routes to feed traffic to each other. In this context, our E2 aircraft will be an efficient tool to assist small and medium-sized airlines in focusing on the regional segment by differentiating their business models, market access, product, and service offerings.”

The China Regional Aviation Forum was previously held in Kunming, Yinchuan, Guiyang, Ordos, and Sanya. This year’s event is being jointly organized by China Aviation News and Civil Aviation Management Institute of China (CAMIC).

Another significant event is marked by the Airbus A330neo D-ANRB, the ninth brand-new A330neo that Condor has received. On Saturday morning at 11:04, a flight from Toulouse bearing the registration D-ANRB touched down at Frankfurt Airport. The inaugural commercial flight is scheduled to arrive in Canada at the end of the next week.

EasyJet launches flights for the first time to Cairo, Egypt(Opens in a new browser tab)

As a result, Condor has received half of the long-haul fleet that was ordered after beginning to receive one aircraft per month as scheduled since the end of 2022. The newest member of the fleet and an A330neo carrying the “Sea” livery were delivered for the first time. This completes the long-haul fleet’s color palette and going forward, travelers will fly in the shades “Island,” “Beach,” and “Sea” to the most breathtaking locations on earth.

According to Christian Schmitt, Chief Operations Officer and Accountable Manager Condor, “We have already been able to fleet half of the 18 aircraft ordered with the current aircraft thanks to the great commitment of our Condor team, the well-rehearsed cooperation with Airbus, the suppliers, and the authorities.” The comfort, design, and facilities of the new long-haul aircraft have received positive praise. We are honoured to be able to provide our customers with a brand-new Condor border experience with this and to begin using the A330neo on all long-distance flights in 2024.

Azerbaijan Airlines orders 12 A320neo(Opens in a new browser tab)

In order to replace the present B767 fleet entirely by 2024, Condor aims to receive a total of 18 new long-haul aircraft as part of its overall long-haul fleet renewal programme. The three aircraft colors—”Island”-green, “Beach”-sand, and “Sea”-blue—will be flown in equal numbers. Up to five further purchase options for an A330neo have also been approved by the Supervisory Board, although no orders have been placed as of yet. The next A330neo will also be delivered at the end of this month in the “Sea” color.

Condor’s short- and medium-haul fleet will be replaced by 41 brand-new A32Xneo aircraft, including 13 A320neo and 28 A321neo, when the long-haul fleet renewal is finished. The present Airbus A320/1 and Boeing 757 aircraft will be replaced. In 2024 and 2025, 14 aeroplanes will be delivered in total. As a result of the fleet renewal programme, the Condor fleet will eventually increase overall.

Here are 10 of the best places to visit in Singapore:

1.Marina Bay Sands –

This iconic hotel and entertainment complex offers stunning views of the city skyline from its rooftop infinity pool. An integrated resort that has it all: a luxury hotel, restaurants, an endless collection of shops, a convention center that is one of the largest in Asia, theater, an ArtScience Museum and other entertainment centers. It also has an indoor skating rink made with synthetic ice.

2.Gardens by the Bay –

A beautiful park with futuristic supertrees, a flower dome, and a cloud forest. It is a relatively new addition to Singapore’s tourist attractions, but gardeners won’t want to miss going there. It consists of three gardens: Bay South, the largest garden, which features tropical horticulture and has tree-like structures up to 50 metres (160 feet) high that dominate the Gardens’ landscape. Bay Central, a garden with a waterfront walk that will eventually connect the other two gardens, Bay East, which is opening in phases as sections are completed.

3.Sentosa Island is a popular holiday spot with sights like Universal Studios, the S.E.A. Aquarium, and the Skyline Luge. Free volleyball courts are available at this beach, along with water activities like kayaking and skimboarding. There are a lot more beaches on Sentosa Island, and there also an aquarium there where you may enjoy with dolphin swimming.

4. A UNESCO World is the Singapore Botanic Gardens are a heritage site with more than 10,000 different plant types. The Singapore Botanic Gardens’ most popular part, the National Orchid Garden, is the only one that costs admission, making it the perfect destination for people on a strict budget. The park features more than 60,000 different species of plants and animals, including the first children’s garden in the world. For the most daring, there are other activities like trapeze and water-powered jet packs available.

5.Chinatown is a thriving neighbourhood that is home to several restaurants, shops, and historic temples. Visitors to the Chinese Heritage Centre are attracted by the imposing and beautiful Sri Mariamman Hindu temple. The Buddha Tooth Relic temple is a further sight in Chinatown that is well worth visiting. If you are an early riser, make sure to attend the morning drum ceremony.

6.Clarke Quay is a thriving riverfront community with a range of bars, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. The quay at the mouth of the Singapore River, one of Singapore’s most well-known tourist attractions, functioned as the city’s commercial hub in the late 19th century. Today, it still bustles and hustling, but with a different kind of business: fashionable cafes, unique stores, pushcart vendors, and more, all of which combine Asian and European influences.

7.The Merlion, a popular tourist destination, is home to a mythological creature with a lion’s head and a fish’s body. The park is located close to the mouth of the Singapore River and provides amazing views of the Marina Bay Sands and the city skyline. Visitors can snap photos with the 8.6-meter-tall and more than 70-ton Merlion monument. When the monument sprays water out of its mouth into the harbour, it creates a stunning spectacle.

9.National Museum of Singapore, A cultural centre that uses interactive exhibitions and multimedia displays to highlight the history, culture, and accomplishments of Singapore and its people. The museum is set in a gorgeous building that seamlessly combines traditional and modern architectural aspects and features a variety of exhibitions and interactive displays. The galleries of the museum cover a wide range of topics, including the nation’s pre-colonial history, colonial past, modern achievements, and cultural diversity.

10. Singapore Zoo, The orangutans are the main draws of the Singapore Zoo; you may observe them as infants and adults hanging from trees and eating fruit. The zoo is home to a sizable family of chimpanzees, meerkats, mole rats, kangaroos, zebras, komodo dragons, white tigers, and many more wild creatures.