AvTalk Episode 149: Now that’s a biggun’

On this episode of AvTalk, Boeing launches the 777X Freighter with Qatar Airways as the launch customer. And some Ethiopian Airlines staff have fled the country in incredible ways, stowing away on flights to Europe and the US.

Boeing launches the 777X Freighter with Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways will be the launch customer for the 777X Freighter, ordering 34 of the new aircraft with options for 16 more. The airline also placed a provisional order for up to 50 737-10 MAX aircraft. We look at Boeing’s new 777-8F and break down the Qatar Airways order.

Ethiopian escapes

At least four Tigrayan Ethiopian Airlines employees on to two separate flights concealed themselves to escape Ethiopia and seek asylum in Europe and the US. In one case, a pair hid above the crew rest compartment in a 777. Here’s the full article on CNN.

5G… again

Hopefully almost done discussing this as we move toward resolution of the outstanding issues. But not everyone is happy. And Congress weighed in this week as well.

American Airlines orders more MAX

American Airlines will take an additional 30 737-8 MAX from Boeing, but also defer delivery of some 787s.

Norwegian 787 engine failure update

In August of 2019, a Norwegian 787 suffered an uncontained engine failure departing Rome. We discuss the findings of the final report, released by Italian authorities last week.

Parsing EU slot restriction rules

Jason and Ian go from IATA to EUACA to figure out how to interpret the latest changes to JNUS. Confused? So were we.

New Icelandair livery

Icelandair unveiled their new livery. It is a painted aircraft.