TP Aerospace Signs Agreement with Supernova for Wheels and Brakes

Airbus Commercial Aircraft Deliveries Fall Short Again in May Airbus reported another decline in commercial aircraft deliveries in May, handing over 51 jets to customers. This figure is two fewer than in May 2024 and five less than in April, underscoring ongoing challenges for the European aerospace giant. For the first five months of 2025, total deliveries reached 243 aircraft—a 5% drop compared to the same period last year. Mixed Performance Across Aircraft Families The delivery downturn was most pronounced in the A320neo family, historically Airbus’s best-selling line. Only 11 A320neo jets were delivered in May, nearly all to Chinese airlines. Year-to-date, 63 A320neos have been delivered, marking a steep 34% decline from the previous year, with 32 fewer aircraft reaching customers. In contrast, the A321neo showed resilience, with 120 units delivered so far in 2025—seven more than last year. The A220 family was the sole bright spot, with 29 deliveries so far this year, representing a robust 38% increase. Widebody models continued to struggle: A330 deliveries fell by 10%, and A350 deliveries slipped by 6% compared to the same period in 2024. Supply Chain Strains and Market Impact Persistent supply chain disruptions have hampered Airbus’s production capabilities, contributing to the delivery shortfalls. These operational challenges have not only delayed aircraft handovers but also weighed on the company’s financial performance, leading to a decline in market value and a drop in Airbus’s stock price. The situation is further complicated by intensifying competition from emerging manufacturers such as China’s COMAC, which is seeking to expand its presence in the global commercial aviation market. Outlook and Order Activity Despite the disappointing delivery figures, Airbus is maintaining its 2025 guidance, which targets 880 commercial aircraft deliveries for the year. CEO Guillaume Faury acknowledged the difficulties facing the company in the first half of 2025 but expressed confidence in a stronger performance in the latter half as supply chain issues are addressed. In May, Airbus did not announce any new aircraft orders but disclosed 17 previously unidentified deals. Notable updates include: - Two A220-100s for Air Niugini of Papua New Guinea - An increase in Bocom Leasing’s A320neo order from 41 to 42 aircraft - Chengdu Airlines’ total order rising to 12 aircraft - Six new A350-1000 orders from British Airways, supplementing its existing fleet of 18 widebodies - Iberia, part of IAG Group, increasing its A350-900 orders from 23 to 29 - KLM adding another A320neo as part of the broader Air France-KLM order As Airbus navigates ongoing production headwinds and a shifting competitive landscape, the company’s ability to resolve supply chain bottlenecks and ramp up deliveries will be critical to meeting its annual targets and restoring investor confidence.

Delivery Data Indicates Progress for Boeing’s MAX For much of the recent past, news surrounding Boeing’s MAX program has been a source of concern. Yet, recent developments suggest a shift in momentum. Changes implemented after the company’s leadership transition and the resolution of a labor strike appear to be yielding results. Reports now confirm that Boeing’s production rates are on the rise—a positive sign for the embattled manufacturer. While increased production is encouraging, the real measure of progress lies in deliveries, which directly impact Boeing’s cash flow. Delivery data by MAX model shows a steady uptick, indicating that the company is not only building more aircraft but also successfully moving them to customers. This progress is being closely watched by competitors and the broader market. Rival manufacturers may respond with price adjustments or by accelerating new product launches to maintain their market positions. The market’s reaction to Boeing’s improved delivery performance will likely hinge on ongoing perceptions of safety and reliability. If confidence in the MAX continues to recover, Boeing could regain market share, prompting competitors to reassess their strategies. As always, the data tells the story. Boeing’s recent delivery figures suggest that the company’s corrective actions are taking hold. However, the competitive landscape remains dynamic, with both Boeing and its rivals poised to adapt to shifting market conditions.

Airbus Confirms 12 A350 Orders for IAG Amid May’s Order Drought Airbus reported no new aircraft orders in May, according to its latest update on orders and deliveries. Despite the absence of fresh deals, the European aerospace giant confirmed that International Airlines Group (IAG) is the customer behind a previously undisclosed order for 12 A350 aircraft. This announcement comes as Airbus continues to face supply chain disruptions and production delays affecting the A350 program. Clarification of IAG’s A350 Order and Order Book Stability On June 5, Airbus stated that its net orders for 2025 remain steady at 215 aircraft, with no new orders or cancellations recorded during May. The company clarified that an order placed on March 6 for six A350-900s and six A350-1000s—previously attributed to an undisclosed customer—was in fact made by IAG for its subsidiaries British Airways and Iberia. IAG had already disclosed this order in its first-quarter financial results on May 9, alongside plans to acquire 34 A330-900s (21 firm orders and 13 options) and 42 Boeing 787-10s (32 firm orders and 10 options). However, the A330-900 order has yet to be reflected in Airbus’s official backlog. On the same day, Airbus also recorded an order from another undisclosed customer for 13 A320neo and 17 A321neo aircraft, though the identity of this airline remains confidential. Despite confirming the IAG A350 order, Airbus continues to contend with supply chain challenges and production delays, particularly within the A350 program. These ongoing issues may create opportunities for competitors to capitalize on Airbus’s constrained production capacity. Delivery Performance Highlighted by Wizz Air’s First A321XLR In May, Airbus delivered a total of 51 aircraft worldwide, maintaining delivery momentum despite the stagnation in new orders. The deliveries included a diverse mix of models: one A220-100 to Comlux for private aviation, four A220-300s, one A319neo marking Air China’s first of the type, eleven A320neos, twenty-eight A321neos, three A330-900s, and three A350-900s. A significant milestone was achieved with Wizz Air’s receipt of its first A321XLR, registered as G-XLRA. Delivered to Wizz Air UK and arriving at London Luton Airport on May 20, the aircraft quickly entered commercial service, operating routes from London Gatwick to Athens and Jeddah. Several U.S. carriers, including Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines, also took delivery of new Airbus aircraft in May. However, some U.S. airlines, notably Delta and Spirit, have expressed concerns about the future of their Airbus backlogs amid ongoing EU-US trade tensions rooted in policies from the previous U.S. administration. Despite these uncertainties, Delta received four new aircraft in May, including one A321neo, underscoring continued demand. Outlook While Airbus’s order book remained unchanged in May, the confirmation of IAG’s A350 order highlights sustained demand for widebody aircraft. Nevertheless, persistent supply chain disruptions and production delays—especially affecting the A350—pose ongoing challenges for the manufacturer, potentially allowing competitors to gain market share.

Texarkana College and FAA Safety Team Recognize Aviation Excellence at Regional Airport The Little Rock FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam), in partnership with Texarkana College’s Aviation Technology program, will hold a ceremony on June 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM to honor distinguished contributions to the field of aviation. The event will take place at the Texarkana College Department of Aviation Hangar, located at 60 Globe Avenue, Texarkana, Arkansas. During the ceremony, the prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot and Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Awards will be presented to pilots and mechanics whose careers have significantly influenced the region’s aviation heritage. Honoring Distinguished Aviation Professionals The ceremony will be led by Jamie Black, FAASTeam Program Manager at the Little Rock Flight Standards District Office. Recipients of the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award include Jim Collom, Randy Williams, Tevis Pappas, Gary Walker, and Jerry Browning. This award recognizes pilots who have accumulated 50 or more years of experience in piloting and aircraft operations, celebrating the pioneering spirit of Orville and Wilbur Wright. The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award will be bestowed upon Jim Collom, Randy Williams, and Perry Hodgson. Named after the Wright brothers’ mechanic who engineered the engine for their first successful aircraft, this award honors mechanics with at least 50 years of civil or military maintenance experience. Strengthening Aviation Education and Workforce Development Texarkana Regional Airport, established in 1928 and regarded as the premier maintenance relief airport in the Ark-La-Tex region, continues to uphold a tradition of excellence by supporting both veteran professionals and emerging aviation talent. Thirty-four students from Texarkana College’s recently launched Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) program will attend the ceremony, drawing inspiration from the award recipients and reinforcing the airport’s reputation for cultivating skilled aviation mechanics. Brandon Sanders, Director of Aviation Technology at Texarkana College, emphasized the significance of the event for students, stating, “This event is a unique opportunity for our students to connect with the legacy of excellence fostered at Texarkana Regional Airport. It aligns with our mission to provide high-quality education that prepares students for impactful careers in aviation maintenance.” The introduction of the A&P program at Texarkana College reflects a broader commitment to advancing aviation education and workforce development in the region. While the program’s growth may intensify competition among aviation training providers, it also promises to expand the local pool of skilled workers, benefiting area businesses. Competing institutions may respond by enhancing their own offerings to attract students and forge industry partnerships. Despite these evolving dynamics, the collaboration between Texarkana College and Texarkana Regional Airport continues to reinforce the region’s status as a hub for aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. The upcoming ceremony not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the collective efforts propelling the region’s aviation sector forward. Members of the aviation community and media are invited to attend the ceremony to honor these exemplary professionals and support the ongoing pursuit of aviation excellence in Texarkana.

Riyadh Air to Select Airbus A350-1000 as Flagship Aircraft Riyadh Air is preparing to finalize a significant fleet decision, with industry insiders reporting that the Saudi Arabian startup will designate the Airbus A350-1000 as its flagship aircraft. The anticipated order, expected to be formally announced at the Paris Air Show in June 2025, could involve the acquisition of approximately 50 A350s. This move represents a major milestone in the airline’s ambitious expansion strategy as it prepares to launch operations later that year. The airline has already placed substantial orders for up to 72 Boeing 787-9s and as many as 60 Airbus A321neos. However, Riyadh Air has been assessing an additional wide-body aircraft to serve as the cornerstone of its long-haul network, with its options narrowed to the Airbus A350 and the Boeing 777X. Strategic Selection: Airbus A350-1000 Versus Boeing 777X Riyadh Air’s preference for the A350-1000 over the Boeing 777X reflects a combination of operational considerations and market conditions. The A350-1000, the largest variant in the A350 family, offers an advantageous blend of long-range capability, high passenger capacity, and efficient operating costs—critical attributes for a carrier targeting rapid international growth. Conversely, the Boeing 777X has encountered significant certification delays, now approximately six years behind schedule. For a nascent airline like Riyadh Air, the uncertainty surrounding the 777X’s entry into service poses a considerable risk. This high-profile decision is attracting considerable attention within the aviation industry. Market analysts suggest that Riyadh Air’s move may trigger competitive responses from rival carriers, including potential fare adjustments and revised marketing strategies, as airlines compete for market share in the increasingly contested Middle Eastern aviation sector. The choice is also expected to influence future aircraft procurement trends and intensify the ongoing rivalry between Airbus and Boeing in the region. Fleet Composition and Passenger Experience While Riyadh Air will initially operate Boeing 787-9s, the A350-1000 is set to become the airline’s premier aircraft, deployed on its most critical long-haul routes. The airline recently revealed the cabin design for its Boeing 787 fleet, which notably excludes a first-class section. In contrast, the A350 will feature a first-class cabin, highlighting its role as the flagship product within Riyadh Air’s fleet. The airline has made significant commitments to elevating passenger experience, aiming to establish new benchmarks in service and comfort. Supported by robust financial resources and a carefully devised strategy, Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a formidable new entrant in the global aviation market. Industry observers are closely monitoring how the airline’s strategic choices will influence both its own development and the broader competitive landscape. Outlook Riyadh Air’s expected order of around 50 Airbus A350s, predominantly the A350-1000 variant, will complement its existing mix of Boeing and Airbus narrow-body and wide-body aircraft. The forthcoming announcement at the Paris Air Show will not only clarify Riyadh Air’s fleet development plans but also signal evolving dynamics within the Middle Eastern aviation market, as competitors and manufacturers respond to this significant strategic initiative.

VAI Urges Swift FAA Action on Low-Altitude Vertical Flight Routes, Citing Industry and Market Implications Vertical Aviation International (VAI) has urged the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to expedite the implementation of new rules supporting low-altitude instrument flight rules (IFR) operations for rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft. Testifying before the U.S. House Subcommittee on Aviation during the hearing “FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024: Stakeholder Perspectives on Implementation One Year Later,” VAI emphasized the critical need for timely action on Section 627 of the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act. Cade Clark, VAI’s chief government affairs officer, highlighted that Section 627 mandates the modernization of low-altitude IFR routes using performance-based navigation. He called on the FAA to prioritize this initiative, especially in high-density airspace, and to integrate these efforts with broader air traffic control modernization. “Implementing Section 627 is a critical step toward ensuring that rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft can operate safely, predictably, and efficiently in increasingly congested and complex airspace,” Clark stated. He added that these changes would also pave the way for integrating advanced technologies and next-generation vertical flight aircraft into a modern, performance-based airspace system. Clark’s testimony also underscored the essential role of vertical flight aircraft in public safety and emergency response, noting that nearly 1,000 helicopters were contracted for federal wildfire response missions in 2024 alone. He stressed that reliable low-altitude IFR routes are vital for disaster response, firefighting, medical evacuations, and infrastructure resilience. VAI’s call for prompt FAA action comes at a time when the industry is closely watching regulatory developments. The association’s advocacy may prompt competitors to reassess their strategies, as the modernization of IFR routes could reshape operational standards and market dynamics. Industry observers note that increased scrutiny from both regulators and market participants is likely, with the FAA’s review potentially influencing future regulations for vertical flight operations. VAI reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with Congress, the FAA, and industry stakeholders to ensure that Section 627 is implemented with urgency, transparency, and technical precision. The association emphasized that swift action is necessary to meet expanding public service and commercial demands, and to maintain the safety and efficiency of the national airspace as new technologies and aircraft enter the market.

Airbus Reports No Commercial Aircraft Orders in May 2025 Amid Industry Uncertainty Airbus reported zero commercial aircraft orders for May 2025, according to its latest monthly update, marking an unusual pause for the European aerospace giant. The company did not specify reasons for the lack of new orders, but industry analysts suggest Airbus may be holding back announcements ahead of the International Paris Air Show later this month, where major deals are often unveiled. The absence of new orders comes at a time of heightened uncertainty in the global aviation sector. Economic headwinds and ongoing geopolitical tensions are weighing on airlines’ fleet planning and investment decisions. This environment has raised concerns among investors about the potential for prolonged stagnation in aircraft demand, with some market watchers warning that competitors like Boeing could seize the opportunity to gain ground if Airbus’s order momentum falters. Deliveries Decline as Supply Chain Issues Persist In addition to the order update, Airbus disclosed that it delivered 51 aircraft to 32 customers in May 2025. This figure represents a slight decrease from May 2024, when 53 aircraft were delivered to 43 customers, and a more pronounced drop from May 2023’s 63 deliveries to 36 customers. The year-on-year decline from May 2024 to May 2025 amounts to a 4% reduction in deliveries. Despite the subdued order activity, Airbus achieved several notable milestones last month, including the delivery of Wizz Air’s first A321XLR and Kuwait Airways’ inaugural A321neo. However, total deliveries for the year so far stand at 243 aircraft, leaving the company well short of its annual target of approximately 820 commercial jets. Industry Faces Ongoing Headwinds Both Airbus and its main rival, Boeing, continue to grapple with significant challenges in meeting production and delivery targets. Persistent supply chain disruptions, particularly shortages of aircraft engines, remain a major bottleneck affecting output. These issues reflect broader pressures across the aerospace industry as manufacturers work to recover from the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and adapt to shifting market dynamics. As the sector looks ahead to the Paris Air Show, all eyes will be on whether Airbus can reverse its recent order drought and reassure investors about its long-term growth prospects amid a complex and evolving global landscape.

The Capabilities of the Boeing 777 The Boeing 777 stands as a remarkable achievement in modern aviation, exemplifying power, innovation, and efficiency. While regional jets demonstrate the advances of contemporary engineering, few aircraft match the scale and capability of the 777. Jet engines have transformed air travel, enabling the transport of hundreds of passengers across continents within hours. Although four-engine aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380 have traditionally dominated long-haul intercontinental routes, the Boeing 777 distinguishes itself through its exceptional twin-engine performance. Power and Efficiency Redefined The Boeing 777 is powered by two General Electric GE90 turbofan engines, the most powerful ever installed on a commercial airliner. This engineering milestone has established the 777 as the most capable twin-engine jet in operation, setting new standards in fuel efficiency, range, and passenger capacity. Boeing’s ongoing commitment to this platform is evident in the development of the next-generation 777X, which builds upon the success of earlier models and is anticipated to influence the future of high-capacity aviation. Design, Development, and Evolution Initiated in 1990 through collaboration with eight major airlines, the Boeing 777 was conceived to fill the gap between the smaller 767 and the larger 747, while replacing aging trijet models such as the Douglas DC-10. The aircraft’s maiden flight occurred in June 1994, and it entered commercial service with United Airlines in 1995. Since then, the 777 has become Boeing’s flagship long-range widebody aircraft, particularly following the phase-out of the 747. The 777 incorporates several key design features that contribute to its performance and reliability. These include the largest engines ever fitted to a commercial jet, raked wingtips that enhance aerodynamic efficiency, six-wheel main landing gear for improved stability, a circular fuselage combined with a composite tail structure, and advanced fly-by-wire control systems. Early variants like the 777-200 and 777-300 were succeeded by longer-range and stretched versions, all benefiting from continuous advancements in engine technology. Notably, the GE90 engines on models such as the 777-300ER and 777-200LR generate over 110,000 pounds of thrust, enabling unparalleled operational capabilities. The Future: Boeing 777X and Market Influence The forthcoming Boeing 777X represents the third generation of the 777 family, featuring innovative composite folding wings and the new GE9X engines. Designed to accommodate between 301 and 368 passengers in a typical three-class configuration, the 777X offers a maximum range of up to 8,555 nautical miles. It is scheduled to enter service in 2026. By April 2025, Boeing had secured more than 2,300 orders and delivered over 1,700 units, making the 777 the best-selling widebody jet in history. Boeing’s advancements with the 777 have prompted responses from competitors, who are pursuing their own technological innovations, strategic market initiatives, and acquisitions to remain competitive. These developments are reshaping market dynamics, influencing demand patterns and pricing structures. Boeing continues to face challenges from emerging entrants and must adapt its strategies to sustain its leadership position in an increasingly dynamic aviation industry. The Boeing 777’s combination of power, efficiency, and adaptability ensures its enduring significance amid evolving market conditions and intensifying competition.

The Most Powerful Commercial Aircraft Engines in Use Today Modern commercial aviation depends on ever-advancing engine technology to connect the world efficiently and reliably. Industry leaders like Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney, and GE Aerospace are locked in a constant race to deliver more powerful, efficient, and reliable engines, each seeking to outpace rivals in a fiercely competitive market. When a new engine debuts, competitors may respond with fresh designs, adjust pricing, or accelerate their own innovation cycles. These moves can trigger shifts in demand, influence pricing strategies, and prompt companies to reposition themselves to maintain or gain market share. Below, we highlight few of the world’s most powerful commercial aircraft engines, their manufacturers, and the aircraft they power—illustrating how technological leaps can reshape the competitive landscape. Engine Alliance GP7000 – 74,000 lbs Thrust Developed through a partnership between General Electric and Pratt & Whitney, the Engine Alliance GP7000 was purpose-built for the Airbus A380. With a maximum thrust of 74,000 lbs, it stands as the seventh-most powerful commercial aircraft engine in service. The GP7000 first flew on the A380 in 2006 and entered commercial service with Singapore Airlines in 2007. Today, about 60% of A380s are powered by GP7000 engines. Emirates, the world’s largest A380 operator, bases its fleet of 116 aircraft at Dubai International Airport (DXB), with seating capacities ranging from 468 to 615 passengers. The A380’s introduction—despite its financial hurdles—forced competitors to reevaluate their own widebody strategies. The arrival of such powerful engines often compels rivals to innovate, adjust pricing, or introduce new models to stay relevant. Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 – 81,000 lbs Thrust The Rolls-Royce Trent 1000, capable of delivering up to 81,000 lbs of thrust, is one of two engine options for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Entering service in 2011 with All Nippon Airways (ANA), the Trent 1000 is a high-bypass turbofan designed for both efficiency and reliability. Despite its strengths, the engine has faced technical challenges, such as corrosion-related fatigue cracking identified in 2016. ANA remains the largest 787 operator, with 86 aircraft, followed by United Airlines and American Airlines. The widespread adoption of the 787, powered by engines like the Trent 1000, has spurred competitors to accelerate development, refine existing products, and sometimes adjust pricing to capture or defend market share. | Airline | Boeing 787-8 | Boeing 787-9 | Boeing 787-10 | Total | |--------------------|--------------|--------------|---------------|-------| | All Nippon Airways | 34 | 44 | 8 | 86 | | United Airlines | 12 | 44 | 21 | 77 | | American Airlines | 37 | 24 | - | 61 | --- As engine technology continues to advance, manufacturers and airlines must remain agile. The introduction of more powerful and efficient engines can quickly alter competitive dynamics, prompting responses ranging from rapid innovation to strategic repositioning and pricing adjustments. In this high-stakes environment, the race to develop the world’s leading commercial aircraft engines remains a defining force in the future of aviation.

SriLankan Airlines Receives First New Widebody Aircraft in Seven Years SriLankan Airlines has taken delivery of its first new widebody aircraft in seven years, marking a pivotal moment for the financially challenged national carrier. The Airbus A330-200, registered as 4R-ALT (msn 1261), arrived in Colombo on June 3 under an eight-year lease agreement with Carlyle Aviation Partners. This 260-seat, two-cabin aircraft, previously operated by Fly Gangwon and Garuda Indonesia, is expected to bolster the airline’s capacity amid a depleted fleet and ongoing financial difficulties. Fleet Challenges and Strategic Acquisitions Chairman Sarath Ganegoda emphasized the significance of this acquisition, noting that previous cancellations of widebody orders and persistent engine shortages had severely constrained the airline’s ability to maintain its route network. “It’s not easy for us to compete with other airlines with our [existing] hardware,” Ganegoda told Channel News Asia, adding that the airline cannot afford to invest in brand-new, state-of-the-art aircraft. He confirmed that negotiations are underway to secure at least two additional aircraft by the end of the year, though he did not disclose the specific models involved. SriLankan Airlines’ financial instability has complicated efforts to expand its fleet in a competitive leasing market. Former CEO Richard Nuttall highlighted that limited cash flow and poor financial standing have restricted the airline’s capacity to capitalize on profitable routes that remain unserved. Ganegoda echoed these concerns, acknowledging that even the recent delivery is insufficient to meet the airline’s operational needs. “As per our plan, we’ll add at least two more aircraft by the end of this year, if everything goes well,” he stated. Historical Setbacks and Future Prospects In April 2024, the previous government approved a proposal to lease four A330 aircraft—two from ORIX Aviation and two from Aergo Capital—but the plan was abruptly cancelled without explanation. Earlier attempts to renew the fleet were also hampered by procurement irregularities. A 2013 campaign involving orders for four A350-900s and six A330-300s was derailed; the A350s were never delivered, while the A330s eventually entered the fleet through leasing arrangements. Ganegoda is currently pursuing compensation from Airbus over the cancelled A350 order. At present, SriLankan Airlines operates a fleet of 23 leased aircraft, comprising seven A320-200s, two A320-200Ns, four A321-200Ns, three A330-200s, and seven A330-300s. The airline has struggled to replace aircraft as leases expire, resulting in a shrinking fleet and limited growth potential. Ganegoda described the situation as a “dearth of aircraft,” underscoring the challenges in expanding the fleet according to strategic plans. Despite these obstacles, SriLankan Airlines aims to double its fleet within the next five years as part of a medium- to long-term growth strategy. The introduction of new widebody aircraft is expected to enhance the airline’s market share and competitive standing, although rivals may respond by upgrading their own services. Positive market reactions could follow if the airline demonstrates tangible progress toward financial recovery. Government Oversight and Strategic Focus The airline’s future has attracted increased attention from the Sri Lankan government. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake recently transferred oversight of SriLankan Airlines from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Services to the Ministry of Finance. This move signals a renewed governmental focus on the carrier’s turnaround and long-term viability, reflecting the critical role the airline plays in the country’s transportation infrastructure and economic development.