AvTalk - Aviation Podcast

Jaksot

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  AvTalk Episode 386: The Miami runway overrun 11.09.2026 57min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the more we learn about last Sunday’s fatal runway overrun in Miami, the more confusing the circumstances become. We break down what we know from the ADS-B data and the limited flight data recorder information released by the NTSB thus far. A computer failure at NATS leads to the cancellation of 1500 flights over two days in the UK, while Anak Krakatau’s eruption halts flights in Jakarta. One of only two active DC-8s suffers a runway overrun and gear collapse in Kinshasa. We learn about Honeywell’s Mag Mav, Italian passengers and the danger of steep stairs, and the Swiss transport museum needs to figure out where its going to put a retired A340. And United’s planned 9/11 flypast in Denver is getting push back. (Ed. note: the flypast was canceled after recording of this episode) Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 385: “Looking into” that low flypast 04.09.2026 51min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we discuss the low Airlink flypast in Cape Town, what’s been lost in the discussion so far, and what the South African civil aviation authority has to say about it. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy warns airlines to avoid Russian airspace as drones play an ever increasing role in the war between Russia and Ukraine. German authorities blame Russia for the recent explosive-laden drone in Leipzig. The FAA is moving to fire a pair of controllers who left the La Guardia tower early on the day of the crash between an Air Canada CRJ and ARFF truck. But the situation isn’t as straightforward as it seems. South Korean officials move to charge seven officials from the transport ministry with falsifying documents after the Jeju Air crash in Muan. And US airlines continue the race to be as premium as possible. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Airlink’s low flypast: video, data, airline statement, South Africa CAA statement * La Guardia Controllers left the tower early * JetBlue’s new first class * American Airlines’ new premium heavy 777-300ER * Chinese airlines swing to losses in the first half of 2026 * Airline Atlas, the new map prints powered by Flightradar24 data   Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 384: And we’re back 28.08.2026 53min

  After a week away, there’s much to discuss on this week’s episode of AvTalk. We start in Munich, where the Runway 26L took a great deal of abuse. We discuss the Vietnam Airlines 787 runway overrun and tail strike, followed two days later by a Lufthansa A380 touching down before the threshold on the same runway. We also examine what happened aboard Air India A320neo VT-EXO, which briefly lost pressure across all three hydraulic systems, causing an upset that injured nearly two dozen people. Plus, American puts two aircraft with the same call sign on the same frequency—again—and investigators say an unqualified passenger may have been flying a Phenom 100 that overran a wet runway. Elsewhere, a ramp worker is killed during the pushback of a French bee A350 in Montreal, a Frankfurt Airport employee dies from a rare case of malaria, and a Qantas A380 flies to Dallas and back with a maintenance light left inside its wing. We also discuss rising runway incursions in Australia, the return of the Delta–Aeromexico joint venture, Eurowings’ new Premium BIZ seats, the FAA’s war on plastic cups, United’s orphaned 737 MAX 10 seats, and American’s plan to bring seatback screens back—eventually. Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 383: Goodyear Blimp Chief Pilot Michael Dougherty 14.08.2026 1t 18min

  On this episode of AvTalk, we’re joined by Goodyear Blimp Chief Pilot Michael Dougherty to learn more about his unique role in the aviation industry. Also on this week’s episode, German investigators continue looking for answers for how a drone was able to make it onto the Leipzig Airport ramp. FedEx paints a 777 in a special retro livery to coincide with the renaming of Memphis Airport in honor of FedEx founder Frederick W. Smith. Apollo Global Management wins the battle for easyJet and Air Baltic will shrink its fleet for stability. A BEA report on an incident involving an Air France A320 showcases the dangers of turbulence. And Iberia’s special flight gives us a unique perspective on the total solar eclipse. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Iberia’s live stream from the eclipse * FedEx retro livery 777 * Transponder landing system at McMurdo Station in Antarctica * Mr Porter Blind Box   Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 382: The RISE of the Open Fan 07.08.2026 52min

  On this episode of AvTalk, we jump back to Oshkosh for a conversation with David Ostdiek of GE Aerospace for an in-depth update on the progress being made on the CFM RISE program, as the manufacturer moves toward first flight of the new engine design by the end of the decade. Also on this week’s episode, a drone laden with explosives is found on the ramp in Leipzig and a DHL 757 strikes something on approach to the airport. The NTSB’s preliminary report on the crash of a Beech King Air in New Mexico leads to popular press reporting that misses the mark. TCAS proves its worth once again as it helps prevent a mid-air collision in Tokyo. And the FAA certifies the Boeing 737-7 MAX after nearly a decade. Helpful links for this week’s episode * An overview of the RISE program * DHL 757 flight path  * NTSB Preliminary report on the crash of N249CP * FAA statement on 737-7 MAX certification * Norse statement on IndiGo agreement * National Airlines 777 flight from Prestwick to Melbourne * Airbus A350F ground vibration testing   Check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 381: Xavier Pepin, Ultra Long Range Pilot 31.07.2026 46min

  On this episode of AvTalk, we speak with Xavier Pepin, the captain of the Airbus 24 hour, 24 minute Airbus A350-1000ULR flight from Melbourne to Toulouse. We talk about flight planning, crew resource management, fatigue and rest, and what’s next for the A350-1000ULR flight test program. Also on this week’s episode, highlights from EAA Airventure in Oshkosh and flying the Goodyear Blimp. Boeing says the 737-10 MAX flight test program is complete after 976 flights. United says it doesn’t want the 777-9s that Emirates also doesn’t want. And Australia releases new fire bomber procedures designed to make fighting bushfires safer. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Airbus makes history with the A350-1000ULR * Inside the Airbus A350 test cabin * Inside the Flying Bulls DC-6 * Australia fire bombers SOPs Please click here for a transcript of this episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 380: A Whale of a time 24.07.2026 39min

  It’s episode 380, so the Airbus A380 is most certainly on the agenda. But first we’re checking in on the orders placed at this year’s Farnborough Airshow. Sir Tim Clark opines on the proper use of early build Boeing 777X frames. Then we get to learn about the important mission for Airbus’ A380 Flight Lab. Also, Ian will be at Oshkosh this weekend for the close of EAA AirVenture. Give him a shout if you’re going to be there. Elsewhere, TCAS does its job over the Atlantic, a Kalitta Air 777 drags its tail in Cincinnati, and passengers on an American Airlines flight from Boston to London go everywhere but London. Helpful links for this week’s episode * American Airlines flight 108 has a very bad week * Video of the PanAm DC-4 discovery * Airbus’ A380 flying test bed * Preliminary report on the crash of LEGO 747 and Space Shuttle Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 379: This feels eerily similar 17.07.2026 47min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Ryanair (Malta Air) 737-800 suffers an uncontained engine failure after departing Thessaloniki, Greece, resulting in a shattered cabin window and a passenger partially sucked out of the cabin. We discuss the specifics on this accident and its similarities with Southwest 1380. German investigators release their preliminary report on the Lufthansa 787 that suffered a gear retraction last month in Frankfurt. In a first on Flightradar24, nine 7700 squawks happen near-simultaneously—we dig into what happened at Gatwick airport on Tuesday. And the bidding for easyJet heats up as Apollo Global Management bests Castlelake’s bid for the airline. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Ryanair uncontained engine failure * Southwest 1380 * Lufthansa 787 gear retraction in Frankfurt * Gatwick emergencies * easyJet bidders   Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 378: How the Farnborough Airshow comes together 10.07.2026 57min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we’re headed to Farnborough for an inside look at how the airshow comes together. From state of the art aircraft tracking technology to making sure all of the toilets are working, Farnborough International director of operations Ben Gleenson explains what it takes to make sure the biannual airshow goes off without a hitch. Also on this week’s episode, what we know so far about the crash of a K2 Airways Cargo 737 off the coast of Pakistan. Castlelake and easyJet agree in principle to an acquisition. A new report highlights long-term issues with French air traffic control — and Ryanair wastes no time seizing the moment to call for reform. And a look at SpiceJet’s operations reveals a much darker picture than we imagined. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Visit the Farnborough Airshow * K2 Airways 737 crash data * New automated live streams available on Flightradar24   Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 377: About that low, low pass by the 777 03.07.2026 51min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a pair of powerful earthquakes cause widespread damage and significant loss of life in Venezuela. We look at how aid is reaching the country and the impacts on commercial aviation. A low pass at Horseshoe Bay by a 777 is under investigation by the FAA. After a small aircraft crashed into the tallest tower in Beijing late last week, Chinese authorities are implementing further restrictions on general aviation flights in the country. An Electra Airways A320 operating from Warsaw to Tel Aviv on behalf of LOT accidentally squawked 7500 — signaling unlawful interference on the flight deck. Helpful links for this week’s episode * 777 low pass video and data * Accidental squawk 7500 Please check back soon for a transcript of this episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 376: Transferring that risk elsewhere 26.06.2026 52min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, airspace safety and efficiency take center stage as the NTSB begins an investigation into a close call in Boston. The US Coast Guard says changes to DC’s airspace have actually made helicopter operations in the region less safe. US congressional leaders remain at odds over competing aviation safety bills, but the real sticking point seems to be money. And the FAA announced this week its choice for developing AI-enabled airspace modernization tools. Plus, there are more problems with Airbus A380 wings, one airline is lowering fees (really), and World Cup special liveries abound. Helpful links for this week’s episode * World Cup special liveries * EASA A380 EAD * The Air Current reporting on US Coast Guard comments on DC airspace Check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 375: Progress, but to what end? 19.06.2026 46min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Indian investigators issue a progress note, but don’t necessarily note their progress. After more than a decade of negotiations the European Parliament keeps its signature airline compensation legislation much the same. Qantas announces the first Project Sunrise route for its forthcoming Airbus A350-1000ULRs. And Spirt gets the go-ahead to auction off its assets, including its coveted slots at La Guardia Airport in New York. Helpful links for this week’s episode * Read the AAIB progress report * IATA’s Save a life, not a bag campaign * Reuters reporting on the Pope’s plane problems * Delta Material Services   Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 374: 17 years without a license 12.06.2026 46min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, a Lufthansa 787 takes a bow in Frankfurt, the NTSB issues its preliminary report on the United 767 accident in Newark, and Canadian authorities charge a former Air Canada pilot with fraud and forgery after it was discovered he flew for the airline without ever having the appropriate license. We also check in on the IATA annual general meeting to see airlines looking hopeful about Boeing’s certification efforts, gloomy about sustainable aviation fuel, and stormy about the current (and future) price of jet fuel. Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 373: Eight hours to nowhere 05.06.2026 53min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, SAS’s India relaunch doesn’t quite make it to India. The first Airbus A350-100ULR for Qantas’ Project Sunrise takes to the skies. Boeing is advancing the 737 MAX monthly production rate as it says it anticipates MAX 7 and MAX 10 certification by the end of the year. Violence flares in the Middle East with fresh strikes, including one that hit Kuwait Airport, killing one person and injuring dozens in the terminal. Swiss is parting out a pair of A220-100s and parking the rest to support its A220-300 fleet. Want to buy an MD-83? A former Far Eastern Air Transport frame is up for auction. Send us your questions about the Goodyear Blimp! Email us at [email protected] Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 372: Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should 29.05.2026 31min

  We’re in Stockholm for a our semi-annual Flightradar24 crew meetup this week. Ian is joined by Gabe Leigh to discuss what’s it like behind the scenes capturing the stories of aviation professionals around the world. We review the recent incident where NTSB cockpit voice recorder data from UPS flight 2976 was used to recreate simulated audio. The NTSB removed the public docket system in order to prevent further such efforts. The preliminary investigation into the China Eastern A350 jet bridge collision in Shanghai finds a total brake failure on the aircraft. Qantas says its Project Sunrise A350-1000s are delayed again due to supply chain issues. And we recap our flights with the Flying Veterans Association  this week and our plan to get on one of the rarest flights in the world. Planning on visiting ILA Berlin this year? AvTalk listeners can receive 10% off trade visitor tickets using the code ILA26_flightradar on ILA Berlin’s ticketing site. Visit our YouTube channel for an all access pass to the best of the world of aviation professionals. Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 371: “So that started this on the wrong trajectory to begin with” 22.05.2026 51min

  On this episode of AvTalk, we follow the NTSB’s thread as the agency holds two days of investigative hearings on the crash of UPS flight 2976, the MD-11 that crashed in Louisville after one of its engines separated from the wing. The FAA issues its first official response to the NTSB’S safety recommendations following the 2025 DCA mid-air collisions. And the NTSB calls for more realistic training of smoke in the cockpit scenarios after a 2023 incident. A Croatia Airlines A220 suffers a runway excursion during a rejected takeoff in Split. Indian investigators will travel to Seattle in June to be present for tests of 787 fuel cutoff switches at Boeing’s Pacific Northwest facilities. And WestJet is under investigation for what passengers are calling a deceptive practice of swapping flights to airplanes undergoing maintenance before cancelling those flights to avoid paying compensation.   Please click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 370: The man collecting Spirit’s pieces 15.05.2026 1t 16min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, we’re joined by Nomadic Aviation Group co-founder Steve Giordano to talk about what happens when you suddenly need to move dozens of aircraft in a very short amount of time. Steve and his crew have spent the past two weeks bringing former Spirit Airlines aircraft to the desert for storage following the collapse of the airline on May 2nd. What does it take to make sure those aircraft can be legally, safely, and efficiently moved from wherever they ended up when the airline shut down? Also on this week’s episode, a tragedy in Denver as a man intentionally entered the runway and was struck by a departing Frontier flight. FedEx returns the MD-11 to service, Lufthansa Group ups its stake in ITA Airways and orders new aircraft, while Air India formalizes its summer schedule reductions in the face of geopolitical and economic headwinds. The FAA says it will now add transponders to all of its airport ground vehicles, but the agency has been reminding airports that money is available to equip vehicles for the last 3 years. And to everyone’s dismay, MHIRJ’s chief says the CRJ-200 could fly for another 20 years. Helpful links for this week’s episode * An early look at the latest episode of Cockpit Casual featuring Steve and his team’s efforts moving former Spirit Aircraft, as well as a heartfelt goodbye from Spirit staff * Where former Spirit Airlines aircraft are located now * Frontier A321neo strikes person in Denver * NTSB two-day investigative hearing on UPS crash * New Zealand Q300 final report   Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 369: Extra exits, bread trucks, and bankruptcies 08.05.2026 54min

  This week’s episode of AvTalk takes us from the highest highs to the lowest lows of the aviation industry. We begin with a major announcement mere minutes before our recording as AirAsia orders 150 A220s in a new, denser cabin configuration. Spirit Airlines succumbs to its long running financial difficulties and ceases operations. Newly released documents provide insight into the crash of a China Eastern 737 in 2022. And video from this week’s incident involving a China Eastern A350 in Shanghai raises more questions than it answers. Back in the US, a United Airlines 767 struck a light pole and damaged a delivery truck while landing in Newark. And you could become the world’s most well paid airplane valet. Please check back soon for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 368: Humanoids handling your bags? 01.05.2026 46min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the NTSB’s preliminary report on the crash at La Guardia Airport in New York lays out the avenues of investigation and spurs the Port Authority to action. FedEx says it will put the MD-11 back into service in May, but the FAA still needs to weigh in. US low cost carriers are pitching the government on a $2.5 billion support package, while Spirit negotiates separately for an increasingly unlikely $500 million loan. Alaska Airlines launches its first European service, while American Airlines returns to Venezuela for the first time since 2019. American and Southwest roll out special liveries ahead of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Plus, this month in Tokyo, humanoid robots could soon be handling your bags. And we mark a special week at Flightradar24 as Fredrik Lindahl passes the CEO baton to Andreas Schorling. Helpful links for this week’s episode * NTSB preliminary report on LGA collision * Reporting on FedEx MD-11s via FreightWaves * Southwest’s Independence One * Welcoming Andreas Schorling as Flightradar24’s new CEO Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.
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  AvTalk Episode 367: We’re worried about availability, not just cost 24.04.2026 55min

  On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Europe’s jet fuel supplies run low while airlines cut flights as we transition into the summer season. We’re joined by Steven Fox from NATS to learn more about how the UK’s air navigation service provider prepares for the influx of summer flights. TCAS plays an important role in the nature of our discussions as we discuss safety margins rather than mid-air collisions. And pilots of a Lufthansa flight act well before a situation in Bogota becomes unsafe. The back half of this week’s episode checks in on the financial state of the aviation industry, mainly in the US. Boeing and United Airlines report their earnings, while JetBlue reports getting a loan. And Spirit Airlines looks to the US government to help it avoid liquidation. And we take a surprisingly thorough look at the discussions over how many flights the FAA will allow at Chicago-O’Hare International Airport this summer. Not because the discussions were particularly insightful, but because who doesn’t love the classic board game Clue? Helpful links for this week’s episode * Boeing Q1 2026 earnings * Boeing anti-ice fix in flight testing * O’Hare flight reduction transcripts * The European Union’s AccelerateEU proposals Click here for a transcript of this week’s episode.