SkyWest's New E175 Fleet to Use GE CF34 8E Engines

AFI KLM E&M Appoints Peter van Helden as Senior Vice President for Component Products Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) has named Peter van Helden as Senior Vice President for Component Products, a strategic appointment amid ongoing challenges in the aviation sector. Van Helden assumes this role at a time when the company continues to navigate post-Covid supply-chain disruptions and uncertainty surrounding the timeline for normalization. His leadership is anticipated to be crucial as AFI KLM E&M adapts its component services portfolio to meet evolving market demands. Extensive Industry Experience and Strategic Vision Peter van Helden brings decades of experience within the aviation industry, combining technical expertise with commercial acumen. His background includes significant roles in original equipment manufacturer (OEM) relations, strategic partnerships, engineering, sales, and program management at internationally recognized organizations. Known for his strategic vision and ability to drive operational excellence, van Helden is regarded as a valuable asset in AFI KLM E&M’s efforts to reinforce its global standing and create long-term value. Strategic Initiatives Amid Supply-Chain Pressures Van Helden’s appointment coincides with AFI KLM E&M’s ongoing negotiations with AerCap to form a joint venture focused on CFM International Leap engines. This proposed partnership aims to provide spare assets to customers during engine maintenance, thereby enhancing service reliability in the face of persistent supply-chain constraints. Industry analysts suggest that such strategic collaborations may prompt similar moves by competitors as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers seek to secure supply chain continuity and broaden their service offerings. Van Helden succeeds Bruno Tricoire, who has transitioned to the position of Senior Vice President of Engines at Air France Industries. Anne Brachet, Executive Vice President of Air France-KLM Engineering & Maintenance, expressed strong support for the new appointment, highlighting van Helden’s deep industry knowledge, extensive OEM relationships, and proven track record. She emphasized confidence that under his leadership, the Component Product division will continue to evolve and deliver exceptional value to customers worldwide. Van Helden’s expertise in leading cross-functional teams, managing complex regulatory environments, and delivering customer-centric solutions is expected to be instrumental as AFI KLM E&M responds to industry shifts and positions itself for future growth.

Vertical Aerospace Shares Decline Sharply Following Discounted Stock Offering Shares of Vertical Aerospace (EVTL), the British manufacturer of battery-powered aircraft, fell by 30% on Wednesday after the company announced a public stock offering aimed at raising $60 million. The shares were priced at $5 each, representing a significant 28% discount from Tuesday’s closing price of $6.95. This steep markdown has intensified investor concerns regarding the company’s financial health amid ongoing difficulties in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) industry. Details of the Offering and Market Context The offering is being managed by underwriters Deutsche Bank Securities and William Blair, who hold a 30-day option to purchase an additional 1.8 million shares, potentially generating an extra $9 million. Vertical Aerospace indicated that the capital raised will be allocated toward research and development, expanding testing and certification capabilities, and general corporate purposes. This fundraising effort occurs against a backdrop of significant challenges in Europe’s eVTOL sector. Several prominent startups have struggled or exited the market, with companies such as Lilium collapsing and Volocopter being sold. Vertical Aerospace remains the sole credible air taxi startup in the region, while U.S. competitors like Archer and Joby Aviation continue to gain traction and are widely regarded as leaders in the race to commercialize advanced air mobility. Strategic Partnerships Amid Market Pressures In an effort to bolster its market position, Vertical Aerospace has pursued strategic collaborations. The company recently expanded its partnership with Bristow Group to accelerate the deployment of air taxi services and strengthened its relationship with Honeywell to certify critical aircraft systems. Additionally, Vertical counts major airlines—including American Airlines, Japan Airlines, and GOL—as customers and collaborates with industry partners such as GKN and Leonardo. Despite these initiatives, investor confidence remains fragile. Vertical Aerospace’s shares have declined by more than 60% year-to-date, reflecting ongoing doubts about the company’s capacity to compete effectively in a rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive market for electric air taxis.

Archer Aviation Stock Rises Amid U.S. eVTOL Market Expansion Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR) has emerged as a leading contender in the rapidly growing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector, with its stock price surging more than 35% in 2025. This upward momentum reflects increasing investor interest in clean mobility solutions, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing, and efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Financial Strength and Market Endorsement The company’s recent capital raise of $850 million, supported by a White House executive order aimed at accelerating the deployment of eVTOL technology across the United States, has bolstered Archer’s liquidity to nearly $2 billion—the strongest position among its peers. This financial robustness has reassured investors despite potential challenges, including regulatory approval processes, technological competition, and the need for widespread market adoption. In the first quarter of 2025, Archer exceeded analyst expectations by reporting an earnings per share (EPS) loss of $0.17, significantly better than the anticipated $0.28 loss. With cash reserves exceeding $1 billion and an order backlog valued at $6 billion, the company now holds a market capitalization of $6.57 billion and enjoys a Strong Buy consensus from industry analysts. Strategic partnerships with major corporations such as United Airlines, Palantir, and Stellantis, along with other global operators, highlight Archer’s readiness to scale and the broad industry support it commands. Meanwhile, competitors are intensifying their investments and forging new alliances to maintain their positions within the evolving eVTOL landscape. Innovative Zero-Emission Aircraft and Sustainable Mobility Archer’s flagship aircraft, the Midnight eVTOL, is a four-seat vehicle powered by six battery packs, designed to operate with zero emissions and enhanced safety features. The company is committed to utilizing renewable energy at all vertiports, reinforcing its mission to provide clean urban air mobility. As cities increasingly invest in sustainable transportation infrastructure, Archer’s low-noise, zero-emission air taxis are well-positioned to replace traditional helicopters and alleviate congestion on ground transportation networks. Planned air taxi routes, such as those connecting New York City with nearby airports in 5 to 15 minutes, promise to replace lengthy car journeys, thereby improving productivity and sustainability. This is particularly significant for corporations aiming to reduce Scope 3 travel emissions in line with Science-Based Targets initiatives. Carbon Credit Potential and Market Outlook Archer is also strategically positioned to benefit from the expanding voluntary carbon credit market. As this market shifts toward technology-driven offsets, Archer’s eVTOL operations offer several advantages: zero direct emissions during flight, displacement of fossil-fuel-based regional travel, integration with renewable energy sources, and a quantifiable environmental impact. These factors could enable Archer to generate premium carbon offsets, which are expected to command higher prices as the market grows from $1.4 billion in 2024 to an estimated $35 billion by 2030, potentially reaching $200 billion by 2050. Certification Progress and Production Scaling The company has secured its Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate, a critical step toward commencing commercial operations following the anticipated FAA Type Certification expected by late 2025. This certification will allow Archer to begin revenue-generating flights in major U.S. cities. Production is ramping up at Archer’s manufacturing facility in Georgia, with a target of producing two aircraft per month by the end of the year. Further scaling efforts will be supported by Stellantis’ expertise in supply chain management. As the U.S. eVTOL market continues to expand, Archer Aviation’s strong financial position, cutting-edge technology, and strategic partnerships position it as a key player in the sector, even as regulatory, technological, and market challenges remain.

Green Aero Secures $1.6 Million to Develop Hydrogen and Defense Aero Engines Green Aero, an Indian deep-tech startup, has successfully raised $1.6 million in a seed funding round led by pi Ventures, with additional participation from Antler. The capital injection will support the company’s research and development efforts, expansion of its team, and the establishment of an in-house testing facility. These initiatives are part of Green Aero’s preparation for upcoming commercial pilot projects in both the defense and civil aviation sectors. Advancing Indigenous Propulsion Technologies Currently incubated at IIT Delhi, Green Aero is focused on developing propulsion technologies for aerospace, naval, and zero-emission hydrogen aviation applications. Founded in 2023 by Prithwish Kundu, a former research scientist at the US Department of Energy, the company recently achieved a significant milestone by test-firing India’s first hydrogen-based aero engine core, known as The Blue Dragon. Kundu brings extensive experience from his previous role leading computational studies at AgniKul Cosmos, a private Indian space launch startup. India has historically depended on imported turbine engines for aircraft and drones. Green Aero aims to transform this landscape by creating indigenous propulsion systems tailored to both defense and sustainable civil aviation markets. The company is developing aero engines that it claims are twice as efficient as existing global models. These engines incorporate several innovations, including proprietary turbines, fuel-flexible combustors, swirl-stabilized injectors, and superalloy components manufactured through additive processes. Green Aero plans to launch a small-category commercial engine within the next 12 months, alongside the development of a larger engine platform for future deployment. Industry Context and Competitive Landscape Green Aero’s ambitions come amid considerable challenges within the aerospace sector. Industry leaders have pointed to complex supply chain issues that may affect production timelines for advanced propulsion systems. Nevertheless, there is growing market interest in sustainable aviation technologies. For instance, the UK government has recently increased support for hydrogen propulsion development, reflecting heightened investor confidence in this emerging field. Competition in the alternative propulsion space is intensifying. Major aerospace companies such as Airbus and MTU Aero Engines are advancing hydrogen fuel cell propulsion technologies. In the United States, the Army has commissioned Electra Aero to evaluate the potential of hybrid-electric propulsion systems. These developments highlight a broader industry trend toward cleaner and more efficient propulsion solutions. Prithwish Kundu expressed optimism about Green Aero’s role in this evolving landscape, stating, “We are excited to be at the forefront of developing advanced aero engine technologies in India for the world. This funding advances our long-term vision to shape a more sustainable future for the transportation industry.” Shubham Sandeep, managing director at pi Ventures, added, “Green Aero is building world-class aero engines from the ground up in India, with a laser-sharp focus on efficiency and performance. Their bold vision to make India self-reliant in propulsion technology while leading the world in clean aviation deeply resonates with our mission.” Green Aero’s strategy integrates rigorous research and development, subsystem testing, and innovative design and materials. The company aims to deliver lightweight, multi-fuel engines that meet modern aviation demands while minimizing environmental impact, positioning itself at the forefront of the global shift toward cleaner, more efficient aerospace propulsion.

Envoy Air Expands Regional Fleet with New Embraer E175 Jets Envoy Air has announced the acquisition of 33 new Embraer E175 aircraft, signaling a substantial expansion of its regional fleet. This strategic move arrives amid a period of intensified competition and evolving operational strategies within the airline industry, as carriers strive to adjust to shifting market dynamics and emerging challenges. Operational Implications and Industry Response The integration of the Embraer E175s into Envoy Air’s existing operations presents a complex set of opportunities and challenges. The airline must navigate potential issues related to maintenance expenses, regulatory compliance, and the smooth assimilation of the new jets into its current network. These factors are critical, as they may influence operational efficiency and long-term profitability, particularly in an environment where airlines face increasing scrutiny over safety protocols and environmental standards. The announcement has elicited prompt reactions across the industry. Analysts suggest that Envoy Air’s fleet enhancement could intensify competition among regional carriers, compelling rivals to reconsider their own fleet development plans. For instance, competitors such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) may expedite the introduction of Embraer E190-E2 aircraft to match Envoy’s expanded capacity and service capabilities. This heightened competition is expected to drive strategic adjustments in pricing and route management as airlines seek to protect or expand their market share. Industry Context and Future Outlook The broader airline sector is currently contending with economic uncertainties and fluctuating consumer demand, factors that are influencing both immediate and long-term strategic planning. Recent financial reports from major carriers have highlighted margin pressures and downward revisions in forecasts, underscoring the challenges faced by the industry. Experts caution that while the addition of new aircraft like the E175s offers potential benefits, careful management is essential to prevent increased cost burdens or operational disruptions. Nonetheless, some industry observers maintain a cautiously optimistic view regarding growth prospects. They argue that focused investments in fleet modernization, exemplified by Envoy Air’s recent acquisition, could position airlines to capitalize on anticipated rebounds in demand and shifting passenger preferences. Success, however, will depend on the ability to effectively manage regulatory requirements, control costs, and respond strategically to competitive developments. As Envoy Air advances with its fleet expansion, both the airline and the wider industry confront a challenging environment. The forthcoming months will be pivotal in testing carriers’ capacity to adapt, innovate, and sustain resilience amid ongoing market fluctuations and competitive pressures.

aiOla Secures $25 Million Investment from United Airlines Ventures to Advance Voice AI in Aviation TEL AVIV, Israel, July 9, 2025 — aiOla, a deep tech voice and conversational AI laboratory, has successfully raised $25 million in a Series A2 funding round. United Airlines Ventures (UAV) joined as a strategic investor alongside existing backers, bringing aiOla’s total funding to $58 million. This infusion of capital underscores the growing interest in deploying advanced voice AI technologies within the aviation industry. Advancing Voice AI for Aviation Operations The investment marks a potential expansion of collaboration between aiOla and United Airlines, as the carrier explores integrating aiOla’s voice AI technology across multiple operational applications. aiOla’s proprietary system excels at converting spoken language into structured, actionable data, even in challenging environments characterized by noise, multiple languages, and industry-specific jargon—conditions where traditional Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) tools often falter. Field personnel can simply dictate their reports into aiOla’s Jargonic platform, which transcribes speech, recognizes specialized terminology, and organizes the data for backend processing. This innovation eliminates the need for manual data entry, enabling faster and more informed decision-making. Designed to operate effectively in complex, real-world settings, aiOla’s technology is particularly well-suited to the aviation sector, where accurate and timely data capture is essential. The platform supports over 100 languages and allows employees to interact naturally, regardless of accent, ambient noise, or technical vocabulary. Andrew Chang, Managing Director of United Airlines Ventures, emphasized the broad applicability of aiOla’s technology, stating, “aiOla’s technology has a limitless number of applications across industries, as it solves a fundamental problem of capturing data from speech and, with speed and precision, converting it into structured data to be used in any machine learning and artificial intelligence applications. United Airlines Ventures was created to invest in companies that are defining the future of travel technology. We believe companies with innovative technologies like aiOla will play an important role in that future.” Competitive Landscape and Future Prospects Despite this significant funding milestone, aiOla faces intense competition in the rapidly evolving voice AI market. Competitors such as SuperDial and Infitnus Systems are also advancing their solutions in aviation and healthcare, intensifying the race to deliver the most effective voice AI platforms. The $25 million capital injection is likely to be interpreted by investors as a strong endorsement of aiOla’s potential, yet it simultaneously highlights the competitive pressures within the sector. Rival firms may respond by accelerating research and development or expanding their market presence to maintain or increase their share. The involvement of United Airlines Ventures may facilitate further strategic partnerships and collaborations, potentially reshaping the competitive dynamics of the industry. As airlines and other sectors increasingly seek to leverage voice AI for operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making, the market is poised for continued innovation alongside heightened competition.

New Aircraft Carriers Face Significant Delivery Delays The U.S. Navy’s next-generation aircraft carriers are encountering substantial setbacks, with delivery timelines extended by several years, according to recently released Navy budget documents. The Ford-class program, already plagued by repeated postponements, continues to face technological and supply chain difficulties that threaten to undermine naval readiness and the broader global maritime strategy. Delays in Delivery and Technological Challenges The USS John F. Kennedy, the Navy’s forthcoming Ford-class carrier, was initially scheduled for delivery this month. However, the Navy’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget justification now projects its delivery in March 2027, marking a two-year delay from the original timeline. This follows an earlier one-year postponement, intensifying concerns about the program’s schedule reliability. Similarly, the future carrier Enterprise has experienced a further delay, with its delivery date pushed from September 2029 to July 2030, after already being deferred from an initial 2028 target. The budget documents attribute these delays primarily to “delays in material availability and industry/supply chain performance.” The Kennedy’s latest postponement is specifically linked to the completion of Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) certification and ongoing work on the Advanced Weapons Elevator (AWE). Both systems represent significant technological advancements but have historically caused integration challenges. Although these systems are operational on the lead ship of the class, the USS Gerald R. Ford, their implementation on subsequent carriers has proven more complex than anticipated. Broader Implications for Naval Modernization These persistent delays reflect wider challenges confronting the Navy’s shipbuilding efforts. The Ford-class carriers incorporate new reactor and electric plants, advanced propulsion systems, and the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, all central to the Navy’s fleet modernization ambitions. However, contractor-related equipment maintenance issues and the integration of cutting-edge technologies have resulted in “teething problems” not only within the carrier program but also in other initiatives, such as the Constellation-class frigate, which has suffered from incomplete functional design. The repercussions of these delays extend beyond the shipyards. Analysts have expressed concern over the potential impact on U.S. naval capabilities and operational readiness, particularly if the number of active carriers temporarily declines. Such gaps could provide strategic opportunities for rival powers, who may accelerate their own naval development in response to perceived vulnerabilities in U.S. maritime dominance. Admiral James Kilby, acting chief of naval operations, recently acknowledged the severity of the situation before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, stating, “We are behind in every ship class [by] different rates, but at least years.” In response, the Pentagon is pursuing measures to enhance ship manufacturing through new contracts, invest in unmanned systems, and modernize aging shipyards. These initiatives form part of a broader strategy to sustain U.S. naval superiority, particularly as the nation simultaneously seeks to increase submarine production under the Aukus trilateral security partnership with the United Kingdom and Australia. As the Navy contends with these multifaceted challenges, the delays in delivering new aircraft carriers underscore the complexities inherent in modernizing a technologically advanced fleet amid evolving industrial and geopolitical pressures.

Natilus Unveils Innovative Interiors for Future Aircraft Californian startup Natilus, recognized for its pioneering blended wing body aircraft design, has revealed its vision for the interiors of its forthcoming aircraft, aiming to transform both passenger and cargo experiences. In July 2025, the San Diego-based company introduced a proposed cabin concept for its future passenger aircraft, Horizon, developed in collaboration with California design studio ACLA. Horizon Cabin Configurations and Features The Horizon cabin is designed in two distinct configurations. The high-density layout accommodates 196 passengers, comprising 40 First Class seats with a 38-inch pitch, 48 Economy+ seats at 34 inches, and 108 Economy seats at 31 inches. Alternatively, a more exclusive Premium configuration seats 164 passengers across four classes: 16 First Class seats featuring a 42-inch pitch and full-flat capability, 16 Business Class seats at 38 inches, 60 Economy+ seats at 34 inches, and 72 Economy seats at 31 inches. Natilus leverages the flexibility of its clean-sheet design to introduce several innovative onboard features. Among these are three dedicated video conference pods, providing comprehensive connectivity for video and phone calls—a first in commercial aviation. The cabin design compensates for the absence of traditional windows through advanced lighting systems, including simulated skylights and customizable virtual windows. These elements aim to create an immersive environment that reduces jetlag and enhances in-flight entertainment. Additionally, the Horizon introduces “club seating,” a novel booking option that allows groups such as families or colleagues to reserve specific cabin sections arranged to facilitate social interaction. The aircraft would also feature three or four restrooms and eight exit doors, underscoring a commitment to both passenger comfort and safety. Challenges and Market Outlook Despite the ambitious nature of these interior concepts, significant challenges remain. Industry analyses, including a McKinsey & Company and Aviation Week survey, estimate development costs could reach as high as $25 billion, with a projected payback period of 10 to 12 years. While airlines may find these innovative alternatives appealing compared to more costly upgrades, market reactions have been mixed due to the substantial financial and technical risks involved. Established manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus are expected to respond by refining their existing cabin offerings to maintain market share. Natilus’s premium features, including video conference pods and club seating, will also face competition from other emerging cabin innovations. Advancements in Cargo Aircraft Design In parallel with its passenger aircraft development, Natilus continues to advance its original cargo-only aircraft, the Kona. On July 9, 2025, the company announced it had secured a U.S. patent for a diamond-shaped cargo bay tailored to fit within the Kona’s blended wing body. This innovative configuration reportedly offers 2.5 times more cargo space than conventional tube-and-wing aircraft, while the aerodynamic design promises operating cost reductions of up to 30%. As Natilus pursues its bold vision, the company confronts the dual realities of potentially transforming air travel and navigating the high development costs and competitive pressures inherent in a rapidly evolving industry.

Manna Anticipates Regulatory Approval for Quieter Drone Technology Within Months Drone delivery company Manna expects to secure regulatory approval within the coming months for new technology designed to reduce noise pollution from its aircraft by approximately 40 percent. Since launching its facility near Blanchardstown Centre in Dublin last year, where drones deliver food and coffee from local fast-food outlets and cafes, the company has faced criticism from both the public and members of the Oireachtas regarding noise disturbances. Innovations to Reduce Noise Pollution Currently, Manna’s drones operate at speeds of 60 km/h and altitudes between 50 and 65 metres, enabling deliveries within local areas in under three minutes. However, in response to noise complaints, the company has invested in quieter technology. Chief Executive Bobby Healy informed the Oireachtas transport committee that Manna has developed and tested new propellers and reduced the mass and weight of its aircraft, resulting in a significant decrease in noise levels. Healy explained that the company has been engaged in discussions with the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) for several months and is now awaiting approval to deploy the quieter drones. Testing has been conducted at Manna’s facility in Moorock, County Offaly. “We continue to invest in technology to go even further — and we foresee a future where people will barely hear us at all,” Healy stated. While acknowledging that the current drones produce a “noticeable” sound, Healy described it as “generally unobtrusive.” The new, lighter aircraft will be capable of flying at 80 metres, which will further reduce noise. Acoustic experts from Trinity College found that at this altitude, the drones emit approximately 57 decibels—quieter than a typical conversation—and only for about 10 seconds as they pass overhead. The loudest noise occurs when the drone descends to 15 metres for delivery, reaching around 59 decibels; however, Healy noted this will be reduced to approximately 55 decibels with the new technology. Regulatory Process and Market Competition Healy emphasized that the timing of regulatory approval depends on the IAA but expressed optimism about a decision in the near future. “We have submitted all the documents. I do feel it will be soon. It could be weeks, it could be months, but certainly not further,” he said. Jim Gavin, Chief Operating Officer of the IAA, also addressing the committee, described the regulatory process as “quite complex” but anticipated progress in the short term. Manna’s efforts to develop quieter drones come amid intensifying competition in the drone delivery market. Major companies such as DHL Express and Walmart, in partnership with Wing Aviation, are expanding their drone delivery services, particularly in urban areas. This competitive environment is likely to drive Manna and its rivals to continue innovating, focusing on quieter and more efficient aircraft to meet both regulatory requirements and public expectations. Earlier this year, Manna raised $30 million (€25.6 million) in funding to support its expansion plans, underscoring the company’s commitment to advancing drone delivery technology amid evolving market and regulatory landscapes.

PBY-5A Catalina 'Princess of the Stars' Grounded for Engine Overhaul The historic PBY-5A Catalina, affectionately known as "Princess of the Stars," operated by the Soaring by the Sea Foundation, is currently grounded in Arlington, Washington, following an engine failure during a recent flight. The aircraft now awaits a comprehensive engine overhaul and reinstallation, a process that highlights the considerable technical and financial challenges involved in maintaining vintage warbirds. Funding and Industry Context To finance the necessary repairs, the foundation has initiated a GoFundMe campaign with a target of $100,000. This effort is supported by a matching pledge for the first $50,000 from a committed donor. The urgency of the campaign reflects the high costs associated with specialized maintenance, as well as the potential for delays and escalating expenses that often accompany such extensive overhauls. Within the broader aviation industry, engine maintenance remains a critical concern. Recent reports from Aviation Week have underscored ongoing issues, such as the Pratt & Whitney PW1000G GTF engine problems affecting Turkish Airlines, while other carriers like SpiceJet have marked successful overhaul milestones. Meanwhile, companies such as ITP Aero are emphasizing parts repair, signaling a wider industry trend toward sustaining aging fleets through robust maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) strategies. For the Soaring by the Sea Foundation, the grounding of "Princess of the Stars" carries reputational implications as well. Extended downtime can raise questions about reliability and safety, potentially inviting comparisons with other organizations that prioritize operational efficiency and proactive maintenance. Despite these challenges, the foundation remains steadfast in its mission to preserve aviation heritage and inspire future generations. A Storied History Built in 1943 by Boeing Canada as a Canso A, "Princess of the Stars" served with the Royal Canadian Air Force under serial number 9767 until 1946. Following its military service, the aircraft transitioned to civilian roles, spending decades as a firefighting platform across Canada with operators including Canadian Pacific Airlines, Northland Airlines, and Avalon Aviation. Its eventful career featured dramatic incidents, such as a crash during a water pickup in Saskatchewan that left the aircraft temporarily submerged. Retired in the late 1980s, the Catalina later appeared in the French television series *Operation Kavango* before being brought to the United States in 2010 and acquired by Soaring by the Sea LLC in 2019. Preservation and Outreach The foundation is dedicated to restoring and flying vintage aircraft with documented combat histories. “We strive to restore aircraft as close to their original wartime appearance as possible,” said Coy Pfaff. Beyond restoration, the organization actively engages in veteran outreach and youth education, regularly hosting STEM events and open houses designed to inspire the next generation of aviators. Its collection includes other significant warbirds, such as a combat-tested Skyraider and another PBY Catalina with military service history. The recent addition of “Currawong” nose art to their P-40 further exemplifies the foundation’s commitment to authenticity and honoring aviation heritage. To support the restoration of "Princess of the Stars" and learn more about the foundation’s work, visit www.soaringbythesea.com.