The Portuguese government has expressed its intention to retain a 51% controlling stake in TAP Air Portugal, following the airline’s recent public-funded rescue. This move ensures that Portugal maintains a majority interest in TAP, safeguarding national interests and providing stability as the airline recovers from financial challenges. However, this approach may affect potential investment from…
In a move to elevate aviation standards, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov has signed a decree introducing a moratorium on the registration and issuance of operator certificates for new airlines. This decision aims to strengthen Kyrgyzstan’s national aviation system, bringing it in line with international safety and operational requirements. By temporarily halting new certifications, the government…
Italy’s Treasury has temporarily suspended the sale of a 41% stake in ITA Airways to Lufthansa due to a price disagreement between the two parties. The deal, originally announced in May 2023, stipulated that Lufthansa would acquire the stake for €325 million, marking a strategic move to strengthen its position in Southern Europe. However, Lufthansa…
The Irish High Court has issued a temporary suspension on the Irish Aviation Authority‘s (IAA) decision to impose a passenger seat cap at Dublin Airport for the upcoming 2025 summer season. This seat cap, aimed at limiting airport traffic, was challenged by major airlines, including Ryanair and Aer Lingus, who argued that it would negatively…
Southwest Airlines has announced the appointment of Rakesh Gangwal as the new independent Chair of its Board of Directors. This significant leadership change comes as part of the airline’s broader governance efforts to enhance oversight and strategic guidance. The appointment of Gangwal, a respected figure in the aviation industry, underscores Southwest’s commitment to strengthening its…
SmartLynx Airlines, a Latvia-based ACMI and charter service provider, has announced the appointment of Tomas Jan as the Director of Flight Operations. This leadership appointment comes as SmartLynx continues to expand its operational footprint in Europe and beyond, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining high standards in flight safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Tomas Jan will…
FlySafair, a low-cost airline based in South Africa, is currently under scrutiny from the International Air Services Council (IASC) for non-compliance with local regulations regarding foreign ownership. According to the IASC, FlySafair’s current ownership structure does not align with South Africa’s regulatory limits on foreign ownership for domestic airlines. This compliance issue poses a potential…
Capital A, the Malaysia-based parent company of AirAsia, has announced the promotion of its Chief Financial Officer, Pattra Boosarawongse, to the position of Deputy CEO, effective 1 November 2024. This appointment reflects Capital A’s recognition of Boosarawongse’s contributions and expertise, particularly in financial strategy and organizational leadership. As Deputy CEO, Boosarawongse is expected to play…
Azul, one of Brazil’s leading airlines, has rejoined the Brazilian Airline Association (ABEAR) after a five-year hiatus. Azul initially left the association amid disagreements with rival airlines, but this decision to return marks a renewed commitment to collaboration within Brazil’s aviation industry. By rejoining ABEAR, Azul signals a positive shift toward unified efforts in addressing…
Aeolus Engine Services, an Irish aviation services provider, is set to appear before the Federal High Court of Nigeria on 18 November 2024 for a hearing regarding its Winding Up petition against Dana Air, a Nigerian airline. The petition follows lease arrears accumulated by Dana Air, prompting Aeolus to pursue legal action in an effort…
