Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Al-Sudani, has taken decisive action by directing regulators to expedite investigations into documented violations concerning the awarding and execution of contracts tied to Iraqi Airwaysoperations and associated services. This directive underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in public-sector dealings.
Samoa Airways, the national airline of Samoa, has formally requested the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to renew its cabotage exemption, which allows the carrier to operate flights between Tutuila and the Manu’a Islands. This exemption is essential for maintaining critical air services in the region.
JetBlue Airways, a major US-based airline, has been granted permission by a trial judge to advance its commerce clause arguments in its legal challenge to a Florida law that determines how much of a commercial airline’s income is taxable within the state.
FlyArystan, Kazakhstan’s first low-cost carrier, has initiated an independent investigation into financial irregularities after its management uncovered evidence of fund theft. The airline has contacted an external audit company to carry out a comprehensive review and provide clarity on the situation.
Azman Air, a Nigerian airline, has firmly denied allegations that it sold two of its aircraft—a Boeing 737-300 and an Airbus A340-600—to Mahan Air in Iran. The airline clarified that these aircraft were dispatched to Iran solely for C-check maintenance, a routine procedure mandated every 18 months by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Overland Airways has achieved a significant milestone with the Gambian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) granting the carrier Fifth Freedom rights. This approval comes as part of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative, a framework aimed at promoting seamless connectivity across the African continent.
Spectre Cargo Solutions (US), through its Irish affiliates, has accused SpiceJet (India) of removing engines from leased Boeing 737 freighters (B737Fs) in what it claims is a breach of lease agreements. The allegations add to the ongoing challenges faced by SpiceJet regarding its leased aircraft management and operational practices.
The Swedish Competition Authority has decided to cease its investigation into the cooperation agreement between SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) and BRA (Braathens Regional Airlines). The agreement, which had been under regulatory scrutiny, will no longer face legal challenges from the authority.
Thai Airways is facing further delays in its ongoing business rehabilitation process as creditors who sought to revoke the resolution to amend the rehabilitation plan encountered a setback. The Central Bankruptcy Court has postponed their hearing to 21 January 2025, granting creditors additional time to prepare the necessary documentation.
Lufthansa, Germany’s flagship carrier, has urged the European Commission to suspend the EU-Qatar air transport agreement, citing concerns over its “radically unequal” terms and serious corruption allegations. The agreement, which liberalizes market access between the EU and Qatar, has come under increased scrutiny in recent months.
