The US Marine Corps is looking for a few good robots to build airfields
The U.S. Marine Corps is exploring robotic solutions to automate airfield construction and maintenance in remote operational environments.
May 8, 2026
May 7, 2026
EASA issues SIB on safe usage of Jet A aviation fuel in Europe
EASA issued a safety bulletin on using Jet A aviation fuel in Europe as an alternative to traditional Jet A-1 due to supply disruptions from Middle East instability.
We’ve Talked About Fort Lauderdale, But Opportunities Abound Elsewhere
Beyond Fort Lauderdale, Spirit Airlines' closure creates capacity reallocation opportunities across multiple markets, with broader competitive implications for the industry.
May 6, 2026
B-52 engine replacement clears critical design review, first modifications to begin this year
The Air Force's B-52 Stratofortress engine replacement program passed critical design review, with initial aircraft modifications scheduled to begin later this year.
May 5, 2026
NATO nations size up an interceptor-drone bazaar where low price is everything
NATO nations are evaluating cost-effective interceptor drone options where competitive pricing now hinges on thousands rather than millions of dollars in differences.
What Happens Now in Fort Lauderdale?
Spirit Airlines' shutdown triggers industry reshuffling as competitors vie to capture capacity in Fort Lauderdale and other key markets, though not all capacity will be replaced.
May 4, 2026
Air Force clears T-7A Red Hawk for low-rate production
The Air Force approved the T-7A Red Hawk trainer aircraft for low-rate production, authorizing a $219 million contract for the first 14 jets.
Air transportation safety investigation report A23P0136
TSB Canada investigation report documenting a lightning strike and loss-of-control incident involving a Helijet International Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter near Sidney, British Columbia.
Israel to buy more F-35 and F-15 warplanes
Israel plans to purchase additional F-35 and F-15 fighter jets as part of a decade-long $118 billion military modernization initiative.
The Spirit is Gone
Spirit Airlines ceases operations after years of financial decline and two bankruptcy filings, ending its role as an ultra-low-cost pioneering carrier.
May 2, 2026
Cranky on the Web: The Brawl By the Bay is Settled, Talking A220-500
Oakland and San Francisco airports have settled a naming dispute, with Oakland retaining rights to call itself Oakland San Francisco Bay International Airport while maintaining Oakland's name priority.
May 1, 2026
Cranky Weekly Review presented by Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport: Spirit Continues to Fly As Of Right Now, JetBlue is in the Red
Spirit Airlines continues seeking federal government assistance while navigating financial challenges, while JetBlue reports operating losses amid industry pressures.
April 30, 2026
Pacific Marines will be first to test-drive new pilot-optional helicopter
Pacific-based Marine units will conduct the first operational demonstration of an autonomous-capable helicopter called the Aerial Logistics Connector, scheduled for 2027.
From prototypes to production: US Air Force seeks nearly $1B for initial CCA procurement
The Air Force is requesting nearly $1 billion from Congress to begin procuring Collaborative Combat Aircraft, marking the initial production phase of autonomous 'loyal wingman' drones.
AAIB investigation to Cessna FRA150L, G-PPFS
AAIB investigation of a Cessna 150 that failed to recover from a spin near Thorganby, North Yorkshire, on 28 July 2024.
April 29, 2026
Thibauld Jongen appointed EASA Certification Director
Thibauld Jongen was appointed EASA Certification Director effective June 1, 2026, overseeing aircraft certifications and validations across Europe.
April 28, 2026
I Understand Why United is So Mad About Chicago Flight Caps
Analysis of United Airlines' concerns regarding flight capacity restrictions imposed at Chicago's O'Hare airport and their impact on the carrier's operations.
April 27, 2026
For Delta, Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Delta Air Lines demonstrates steady hub-focused growth strategy while competitors United and American pursue different positioning approaches within their respective airline networks.
April 24, 2026
Cranky Weekly Review presented by Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport: Earnings Week, Spirit Looks to D.C. for Help
United Airlines exceeded Wall Street earnings expectations but lowered full-year guidance, while Spirit Airlines pursues federal assistance as financial pressures intensify across the low-cost carrier sector.
April 23, 2026
Implementation of EASA Part-26 Mandates
EASA Part-26 regulations mandate additional airworthiness standards and safety improvements for aircraft already in production or service to ensure continued safety and modernization.
April 22, 2026
CEI 2026.03 — Direct Accreditation of Qualified Entities: Air Traffic Management/Air Navigation Services Systems and Constituents domain experts
EASA issued a call for expressions of interest to accredit qualified entities for air traffic management and navigation services certification and oversight tasks.
April 21, 2026
American Reverses Some Share Decline in 2025 (as FAA Sets Chicago Limits)
American Airlines has reversed market share declines in several routes during 2025, coinciding with FAA-imposed capacity limits at Chicago airports affecting major carriers' hub operations.
April 20, 2026
Air transportation safety investigation report A24P0092
TSB Canada investigation report on a collision with terrain accident involving a West Coast Helicopters AS350 B2 helicopter at Brooks Peninsula, British Columbia.
How is Spirit Still Flying?
Spirit Airlines continues operations despite ongoing financial instability and creditor concerns over rising fuel costs that threatened to unravel its bankruptcy reorganization plan.
April 18, 2026
Cranky on the Web: Fares Up, Bag Fees Up
Airlines have raised fares and baggage fees amid elevated jet fuel prices driven by geopolitical tensions, with all major carriers implementing checks on pricing strategies.
April 17, 2026
Cranky Weekly Review presented by Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport: Spirit Possibly on Life Support, AA + UA = ??
Spirit Airlines faces potential liquidation amid bankruptcy proceedings, while industry speculation continues regarding possible consolidation among major carriers including American and United.
April 16, 2026
United Continues to Gain Local Traffic in Its Hubs (Even Without Buying American)
United Airlines is expanding local traffic growth at its hub cities without relying on mergers, contrary to ongoing speculation about potential consolidation with American Airlines.
AAIB investigation to Cagatay CGT-50, (UAS registration n/a)
AAIB investigation into a Cagatay unmanned aerial system that experienced wing separation in flight over the Radnor Range on 5 October 2023.
April 14, 2026
Nashville Just Keeps Growing
Nashville Airport continues sustained growth, contrasting with other former hub airports that have struggled to maintain traffic after losing major airline operations.
April 9, 2026
AAIB investigation to Experimental Drone Variant 4J, (UAS registration n/a)
AAIB investigation of an experimental drone that lost navigational control and required emergency flight termination over Salisbury Plain on 11 December 2025.