Here's your weekly roundup!

Ethiopian Airlines and flydubai Comply with Somali Airspace Directive

Ethiopian Airlines and flydubai have adjusted their booking systems to list Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, as a city in Somalia, following a directive from the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA). The SCAA had issued an ultimatum, threatening to revoke the airlines' access to Somali airspace by August 24 if they did not comply. While Ethiopian Airlines requested an extension, the SCAA denied the request, stating that the necessary changes could be made within two days.

Other airlines serving Hargeisa, such as Daallo Airlines and Air Djibouti, already list the city as part of Somalia in their systems. Somaliland, despite being self-governed since its secession in the early 1990s, is still internationally recognized as part of Somalia, which retains authority over its airspace.

Caribbean Airlines to Expand Fleet with New Aircraft

The government of Trinidad and Tobago has given Caribbean Airlines the green light to acquire new aircraft, which will be used to enhance routes to South America, according to Energy Minister Stuart Young. Speaking at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Latin America & Caribbean, Young mentioned that the airline is open to partnerships on routes that align with its strategic goals, though specific details about the aircraft type were not disclosed.

Caribbean Airlines currently operates a fleet of 19 aircraft, including ten ATR72-600s and nine B737-8s, with two B767-300Fs wet-leased from Northern Air Cargo. The airline is reportedly considering adding regional jets to its lineup to bridge the gap between its existing turboprops and Boeing narrowbodies, with options like the E175, Embraer E2, and Airbus A220 under review.

Malaysia Airlines Reduces Flights Amid Operational Challenges

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, has announced a reduction in flights from now until the end of the year due to ongoing supply chain issues, manpower shortages, and technical problems. This decision follows several recent disruptions, including emergency landings and flight returns due to engine issues. According to MAG Managing Director Izham Ismail, the airline group is working closely with aircraft and engine manufacturers to resolve these challenges and ensure long-term operational reliability.

The flight cuts will affect multiple international routes, including those between Kuala Lumpur and major cities such as Bangkok, Denpasar, Jakarta, and Seoul. The adjustments are necessary to address the underlying issues and stabilize operations. Meanwhile, Malaysia's Transport Minister Anthony Loke has confirmed that the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is auditing MAG to investigate the root causes of the disruptions, with findings to be presented to the Cabinet soon. Despite these challenges, Minister Loke expressed confidence in MAG's commitment to passenger safety and operational excellence.

World Aviation Festival Names Royal Schiphol Group as Official Airport Partner

The World Aviation Festival has announced Royal Schiphol Group as its Official Airport Partner for this year's event. As the operator of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and other key airports across the Netherlands, Royal Schiphol Group plays a crucial role in connecting passengers, cargo, and the global economy.

Pieter van Oord, President & CEO of Royal Schiphol Group, expressed pride in hosting the event, highlighting the festival's significant growth and its role in bringing together airlines, airports, and industry leaders from around the world. The Group is committed to becoming the world's most sustainable airport network, with ambitious goals for zero-waste and zero-emissions operations by 2030, and achieving net-zero emission air travel by 2050.

The World Aviation Festival, scheduled for October 8-10, 2024, in Amsterdam, is expected to attract over 5,000 attendees. The event will feature industry leaders like Marjan Rintel of KLM, Patrick Roux of SkyTeam, and József Váradi of WizzAir, who will share insights on the latest trends and innovations in aviation. The organizers are excited to collaborate with Royal Schiphol Group, emphasizing their shared commitment to innovation and sustainability in the aviation industry.

Ethiopian Airlines Orders 20 Boeing 777X Jets in $11 Billion Deal

Ethiopian Airlines has committed to purchasing up to 20 of Boeing's 777X aircraft, marking a significant endorsement for the jet from one of Africa's leading airlines. Announced by CEO Mesfin Tasew in Addis Ababa, the deal includes a firm order for eight 777-9 jets, with options for an additional 12. The agreement is valued at approximately $11 billion.

The 777-9, the largest twin-engine airliner ever built, is expected to help Ethiopian Airlines serve high-demand markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. This deal adds momentum to Boeing's efforts as it works to complete the delayed certification of the 777X series. Ethiopian Airlines, which already operates a fleet with more than half Boeing models, including 15 737 Max jets, continues its long-standing partnership with Boeing, despite past challenges. This relationship was tested after the tragic 737 Max crash in 2019, but the airline has since ordered additional Boeing aircraft, including 11 787 Dreamliners and 20 737 Max planes, as part of its fleet modernization strategy.