Brian Bartal

In a move to strengthen its financial position, Southwest Airlines has entered into a sale-and-leaseback agreement involving 36 of its Boeing 737-800 aircraft with Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management. https://lnkd.in/dvjnr9wG

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Ground safety concerns are back in focus after a recent incident at Boston Logan International Airport. With similar incidents across major U.S. airports, it’s clear that airlines and airports must improve their ground safety protocols. Now, more than ever, coordination between air traffic controllers and ground crews is essential to avoid accidents. #WentWorld #AviationSafety #AirTravel #GroundOperations 🚨✈️ https://lnkd.in/d3e9DHK6

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When President Carter amended the Motor Carrier Act of 1935, he and Congress didn't remove the exemption from overtime wages for interstate truck drivers. Far too too many truck drivers are not only denied overtime but delay time in their first forty hours, delayed by shippers and receivers—all of this denied wage and hour protection by the US Department of Labor—in a dangerous blue-collar industry to drivers and the public. Additionally, foreign nationals flood the labor market by pushing wages down, receiving federal grants and loans for businesses, and underbidding Americans who lose jobs—this is green card abuse contrary to immigration law. Foreign national truck drivers too often do not speak English—they must use translation software to communicate with people on their phones. The transportation regulations specify that to operate a commercial motor vehicle, a driver must be able to read, write, and speak English https://lnkd.in/gjfaDw9D

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Amazon places more freighters with Sun Country Airlines 🛫 Amazon Air has placed an additional eight Boeing 737-800 freighters with Sun Country Airlines as it deepens its partnership with the Minneapolis-headquartered carrier. The amended air transport service agreement means Sun Country, which operates in the US and the Americas, will now operate a total of 20 737-800 freighters on behalf of the e-commerce giant. Meanwhile, the length of the CMI agreement has been extended by five years to 2030 with a series of three options that if exercised would extend the deal through to 2037. The first additional aircraft is expected to begin service in the first quarter of 2025 and all eight aircraft are expected to be operational by the third quarter of 2025. “Amazon is an extremely important customer to Sun Country and strong execution on our current cargo services positioned us well to grow our business. We look forward to continuing to provide services to Amazon into the 2030s,” said Jude Bricker, chief executive, Sun Country. The move comes after Atlas Air earlier this year said it was backing out of operating 737 freighter aircraft on behalf of Amazon. Atlas has been operating both 737 and 767 freighters for Amazon for a number of years, but these deals will now end next year. Atlas reasoned that it wanted to concentrate on operating widebody freighters on long-haul markets. Meanwhile, Amazon has been simplifying its domestic US network over the past year, according to a report issued earlier this year by the Chaddick Institute. The changes have seen the carrier utilise larger aircraft – such as A330-300 operated by Hawaiian and more 767s operated by ATSG – and consolidate operations at fewer hubs. In the process, the percentage of the fleet comprised of 737 or smaller planes has fallen from 38% to 33% over the past year (as of March). The carrier also stopped using ATR-72 turboprops over the last year and reduced the number of airports it flew to. The report said that the move to a hub and spoke operation and away from point-to-point flying brings its strategy closer to that of express giants UPS and FedEx. “Amazon Air’s network has gradually grown to be more like that of FedEx and UPS,” the report stated. “These air cargo integrators have long been hub-centric, with nearly identical schedules day after day (except for weekends and holidays). “Their networks have been gradually fine-tuned to maximise their versatility for guaranteed delivery the next morning or afternoon. Amazon is pursuing a similar strategy in North America. More than four in five Amazon Air flights (80.5%) within the US mainland operate to or from its five largest hubs, up from 65.6% in early 2021.” Sun Country first started operating aircraft for Amazon in May 2020 after the two companies struck a 10-aircraft sublease deal, which was later extended by two more aircraft. #primeair #airlines #freightforwarding #amazon

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U.S. Contract Tower Association Alert: FAA Announces Selections for Contract Tower Program November 27, 2024 The FAA today released its long-awaited selections for companies to provide air traffic control services for the FAA Contract Tower Program. The move comes as the agency intends to reconfigure the service area map and usher in other notable changes for the FCT program.    The FAA’s decision means that the agency is sticking with companies with a long track record with the FCT program rather than picking companies outside the current program. The FAA’s announcement reiterates that the “contracts period of performance consists of one 14-month base period, which includes a two (2) month phase in period, and six (6) one-year options.”   New FCT Map: Despite the selection of familiar service providers, there are plenty of changes in store for the FCT program. First, the agency has redrawn the familiar FCT map. In June 2022, the FAA unveiled its plan to increase the number of service areas from seven to 10.   Today’s announcement highlights the breakdown of which companies will be providing FCT services at the 10 new service areas: Area 1: Midwest Air Traffic Control Services Area 2 (Small Business Set Aside): Ci2 Aviation Area 3: Robinson Aviation Area 4: Midwest Air Traffic Control Services Area 5: Midwest Air Traffic Control Services Area 6: Robinson Aviation Area 7: Serco Area 8: Robinson Aviation Area 9: Serco Area 10: Robinson Aviation We expect that the FAA will implement the new FCT contract early next year. We will keep you posted as more details become available in the weeks ahead.  

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Mesa Airlines to Sell 15 CRJ900 Airframes for $19M - Mesa Airlines, a regional carrier based in the United States, has announced an agreement to sell 15 used CRJ900 airframes, along with landing gear and associated parts, to a third party. The sale is expected to generate gross proceeds of US$19 million, which will be used to reduce the airline’s outstanding loan with the US Treasury. - https://lnkd.in/dqmc6pHX

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The FAA is seeking comment on a draft document, “Noise Abatement Entries in the Chart Supplement”, proposing ways to standardize language for airport sponsors to describe local noise abatement measures in the FAA’s Chart Supplement. Airport operators with local noise abatement measures, including voluntary procedures, should consider commenting to assure that the proposed language will cover your noise abatement measures. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e_vNRvUQ

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📢 54th AASA AGA. Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, called out the “devastating and almost unrecoverable impact of the recent withdrawal of instrument flight procedures at some of our airports," noting an AASA Airline Member "reported 3 892 flight delays, 77 cancellations, and 12 diversions between July 19 and October 9. The cumulative delay for just that one airline was an eye-watering 91 075 minutes or 63.25 days. This is unacceptable,” Munetsi said. Flight delays and cancellations caused by navigational software issues continue to dog the aviation industry. 👉 https://shorturl.at/Lp1NI 🛫🌍#AASA54thAGA #FlySafair #UnlockAviationPotential

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🟢 #DidYouKnow | In 1987, Northwest Airlines ordered 20 Airbus A340s, becoming the North American launch customer. However, the order was canceled in 1992 due to engine issues and economic challenges. Instead, Northwest later operated 32 A330s until merging with Delta Air Lines. 📸: Pieter van Marion #deltaairlines #airbus

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As a Contract Pilot with A 'Steep Approach Certification', you will significantly enhance your marketability and open doors to specialized contract job opportunities for the highest possible day rates. This certification indicates that you possess the advanced skills to safely execute landings on runways with steep approach angles, typically found at challenging airports with unique geographical constraints, such as short runways, surrounding terrain, or urban development that necessitates a steeper descent path. A Steep Approach Certification allows pilots to perform approaches with angles greater than the standard 3 degrees, often up to 5.5 degrees or more. Examples of such airports include London City Airport (EGLC), Lugano Airport (LSZA), and Funchal Madeira Airport (LPMA). The Importance of Having A Steep Approach Certification Means: Access to Specialized Airports: Airports requiring steep approaches are often located in high-demand urban areas or tourist destinations, where standard approaches are not feasible due to obstacles, noise restrictions, or terrain. Being certified for steep approaches allows you to operate in these airports, making you a more versatile and sought-after contract pilot. Enhanced Skills and Safety: Steep approaches require precise control of the aircraft, excellent situational awareness, and the ability to manage energy and speed in a challenging descent profile. You can safely execute these demanding maneuvers that demonstrate a high level of competence and professionalism. Increased Demand for Specialized Missions: Many corporate jet operations, VIP transport services, and charter companies require pilots who can access airports with steep approach profiles. These lucrative and specialized contract missions command higher compensation due to the complexity and skills required. Competitive Edge in the Market: In the competitive field of contract aviation, having a Steep Approach Certification sets you apart from other pilots. The additional training and expertise needed to obtain this certification will give you an edge when negotiating contracts or seeking new opportunities. Flexibility and Versatility: Versatility is key as a contract pilot. The ability to safely operate in a wide range of airports, including those with steep approaches, enhances your flexibility and appeal to potential clients. Flexibility leads to more offers and the ability to command higher day rates. Build Your Network To CONNECT With Other Pilots And Learn More about these strategies and the other opportunities to expand your career with the specific aircraft that you fly and more, 👉 https://lnkd.in/eeDSrnaJ Once Inside, You Have The Option To Submit Your ‘Contract Pilot Profile’ So That Employers Can Reach Out To YOU For Their Available Positions #contractpilot #corporatepilot #pilotjobs #aviation #aerospace #pilotsafety #helicopters   #helicopterpilot #theprofessionalpilotforums #theprofessionalpilotnetwork

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Join me tomorrow along with this great panel of experts to discuss the new FAA SMS mandate. Learn about the specifics, what to expect, resources to comply and implementation timelines.

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Recent FAA Fines on Spirit Airlines Highlight Crucial Hazmat Handling Lessons The FAA has proposed a $146,500 fine against Spirit Airlines for violations involving improperly packaged oxygen containers. This incident brings to mind the tragic ValueJet flight 561 crash in 1996, caused by improperly labelled oxygen generators. Why This Matters: - Training Deficiencies: Spirit employees involved had not completed necessary hazardous materials training. - Regulatory Compliance: Proper packaging and labelling are vital to prevent accidents. - Industry Standards: Continuous education and adherence to regulations are essential for aviation safety. At TSA, we offer specialised training to ensure your team is prepared to handle dangerous goods safely. Don't let history repeat itself— invest in proper training and compliance today. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/es8a7jBs

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Yesterday, airline executives faced Congress to address concerns about "junk fees" — charges for services like seat selection and early boarding. With reportedly over $12 billion earned from these fees between 2018 and 2023 and a 50% increase in fees since 2018, it’s no surprise the hearing was intense. I just watched a replay of the 2-hour hearing. As a consumer, I have strong thoughts about transparency and fairness, just as many others do. But as someone who helps leaders and experts communicate better, I couldn’t help but view the hearing through another lens: the challenge of managing high-stakes communication under pressure. When faced with tough questions, especially in such a public and critical setting, clear and effective communication is key. This is where a communications expert or public speaking coach can transform the experience. Here’s how: 1. Preparation: Anticipating tough questions and preparing clear, relatable answers goes a long way. 2. Message Clarity: Clear, memorable, and consumer-centered messages that address the heart of the issue are essential. 3. Composure: High-pressure situations are never easy. Role-playing and rehearsal help you manage nerves, respond authentically, and remain composed, even under fire. 4. The Follow-Up: Addressing concerns directly and following up on unanswered questions builds credibility and trust. As someone who works with leaders to navigate these types of moments, I know how challenging they can be. But I also know the difference intentional communication can make. For leaders and experts, communication skills aren’t a "nice-to-have" but a necessity — especially when the stakes are this high.

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United Airlines faces significant financial turbulence, reporting a $200 million loss attributed to the grounding of its Boeing 737 MAX 9 fleet for three weeks in January. Despite this, United's first-quarter revenue rose nearly 10% to $12.54 billion, with capacity up over 9%. However, the airline has had to adjust its long-term fleet strategy, receiving fewer narrow-body planes in 2024 and opting to lease Airbus A321neos to offset delays. Click the link: https://lnkd.in/dyySUJeQ to read the full article. #UnitedAirlines #Boeing737MAX #AviationIndustry #FinancialAnalysis"

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Are you looking to expand your flight school and increase your fleet's efficiency? Sierra Charlie Aviation’s journey from 2 to 17 aircraft is a true testament to what’s possible when you embrace innovation and scalability. How did they do it? Discover how they leveraged Flight Schedule Pro’s platform to streamline operations, improve customer experience, and support rapid growth. Don’t miss out on the key takeaways that could transform your flight school’s future. Read the full story here: https://hubs.li/Q02Y-RfC0 #AviationGrowth #FlightTraining #InnovationInAviation

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