Maiden flight of Ariane 64 rocket, carrying Amazon Project Kuiper satellites

European launch service Arianespace is poised to make history on Feb. 12 with the maiden flight of its Ariane 64, the most powerful variant of Europe’s next-generation Ariane 6 rocket. From Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, the VA267 mission will carry 32 satellites for Amazon’s Project Kuiper, the company’s ambitious low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband constellation.

Designated LE-01 (Leo Europe 01) by Amazon, this mission marks the first of 18 Ariane 6 launches contracted by the tech giant to deploy its satellite network. It also represents the first time a European launcher has been used for the Project Kuiper constellation.

The Ariane 64, equipped with four solid rocket boosters, is designed for heavy-lift capability, capable of delivering more than 20 metric tons to low Earth orbit.

Longest Fairing

For mission VA267, the rocket will carry the 32 satellites housed within a newly introduced 20-meter-long payload fairing—the longest ever used on an Ariane vehicle. The mission will last approximately one hour and 54 minutes, culminating in the sequential deployment of all satellites into their target orbit.

Amazon’s Project Kuiper

Project Kuiper aims to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband internet to underserved and remote regions worldwide, complementing terrestrial networks and expanding digital access. The initiative is part of a broader global trend toward LEO satellite constellations aimed at bridging the digital divide.

This launch is a milestone for Arianespace and European launch capabilities. As the 359th mission for the company and the first in 2026, VA267 marks the debut of Ariane 6 in its full-power configuration. It is also Arianespace’s first commercial contract for the Ariane 6 program and the first time the launcher will be used by a major U.S. tech company.

Daher unveils TBM 980 turboprop aircraft

On Thursday, Daher Aircraft Division showcased its latest advancement in general aviation with the introduction of the TBM 980 at its headquarters and production facility in Tarbes, France. The event, attended by customers, partners, officials, and employees, was also broadcast globally via a live-streamed presentation, underscoring the international significance of the aircraft’s launch.

This milestone marks the sixth aircraft in Daher’s TBM 900-series since the company acquired the product line in 2014, a testament to its commitment to continuous innovation, as highlighted by Didier Kayat, Daher Chairman and CEO.

Positioned as a transformative offering, the TBM 980 embodies Daher’s “Fly Differently” ethos.

Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of the Daher Aircraft Division, emphasized that the aircraft reimagines both pilot and passenger experiences. Central to this is its modernized flight deck, featuring Garmin’s 3000 PRIME avionics system. This setup includes three 14-inch edge-to-edge touchscreen displays, streamlining cockpit operations with customizable presets and an intuitive interface to reduce pilot workload.

Passenger amenities have also been elevated, with options for satellite-based internet via a Starlink Mini terminal, 100-watt USB-C ports for device charging, and an enhanced Passenger Comfort Display offering real-time flight data.

Safety remains a priority through Daher’s e-copilot suite, which integrates advanced automation such as emergency autoland (HomeSafe), weather detection, icing protection, and flight envelope monitoring.

The TBM 980 builds on the success of its predecessors, incorporating proven technologies like the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-66XT intelligent turboprop engine and a five-blade Hartzell composite propeller. These components, managed by a Full Authority Digital Engine Control system, ensure precision and operational efficiency inherited from the best-selling TBM 960 model.

Certifications from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration have paved the way for deliveries to commence this month.

Connectivity is further enhanced through subscription-based services such as Garmin PlaneSync, Jeppesen databases, and SiriusXM weather and audio, while the Garmin Pilot and ForeFlight apps provide seamless digital integration.

As of Dec. 31, Daher had delivered 1,294 TBMs worldwide, reflecting the series’ enduring appeal.

NASA adds new airborne research plane, once they fix the windows

NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) in California is requesting information from qualified vendors for structural modifications to a Gulfstream V aircraft, supporting the agency’s Airborne Science Program. The project aims to adapt the aircraft (Serial Number 570) to accommodate scientific instruments requiring unobstructed downward observation of Earth.

The modifications will include the installation of two nadir viewports—specialized windows allowing instruments to capture data from directly below the aircraft. To ensure precision and efficiency, AFRC plans to leverage existing technical data from a prior modification project on a Gulfstream V with Serial Number 672. Design deviations will be limited to maintain consistency with the earlier work, which also focused on nadir viewpoint configurations.

Aircraft system relocations will be necessary to provide clearance for the optical viewports, ensuring the performance of onboard scientific equipment. These adjustments are critical for missions involving Earth science, atmospheric research, and environmental monitoring, where downward-facing sensors collect data on climate patterns, ocean dynamics, and terrestrial ecosystems.

Firms with expertise in aerospace modifications, structural engineering, or avionics integration are invited to submit capability statements demonstrating their qualifications to undertake the project. Interested parties must respond by Jan. 20 to be considered. NASA emphasizes that no formal solicitation document exists at this stage.

The Airborne Science Program relies on high-altitude platforms like Gulfstream V to conduct research in support of NASA’s Earth Science Division and other scientific initiatives. These aircraft serve as airborne laboratories, enabling data collection in regions inaccessible to satellites or ground-based instruments.

NASA detailed the work in a Sources Sought document released this week. The announcement is categorized as a pre-solicitation synopsis, intended for informational and planning purposes. Final contract decisions will depend on evaluations of submitted capability statements and follow-up discussions with prospective vendors.

USTRANSCOM seeks industry insights on Next-Generation Oversized Cargo Aircraft

The U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) released a Request for Information (RFI) document on Wednesday that explores future options for large and oversized air cargo transportation services critical to Department of Defense (DoD) operations.

The RFI targets commercially developed aircraft capable of transporting military and space-related cargo exceeding standard dimensions. Specifically, USTRANSCOM seeks details on planes under development as of June 2025 that could carry payloads up to 300 feet in length—such as space launch vehicles—by Dec. 31, 2035. These aircraft would supplement existing capacities to meet the DoD’s logistical and readiness requirements, both immediately and in the long term.

The Air Force currently operates the following aircraft for strategic and oversized cargo transport: 

• C-5M Super Galaxy: The largest aircraft in the Air Force inventory, capable of carrying massive payloads, including M1 Abrams tanks or large helicopters, over intercontinental distances. It features both nose and aft doors for simultaneous, drive-through loading and unloading.
• C-17 Globemaster III: A versatile aircraft that offers a balance between strategic and tactical airlift, known for its ability to operate from shorter or less prepared runways than the C-5. It is a core component of the U.S. military's airlift fleet.

Key Requirements and Timeline

The proposed aircraft must enter service no later than 2035 and provide between 2,000 and 7,500 flight hours over 2–5 years. Additionally, the RFI emphasizes collaboration with civilian aviation sectors, reflecting a strategic push to leverage commercial innovation for defense needs.

Implications for the Global Aerospace Industry

The RFI opens opportunities for international aerospace firms developing next-generation heavy-lift or specialized transport aircraft. Companies with projects in advanced cargo planes, modular transport systems, or reusable space vehicle carriers may find alignment with the DoD’s vision. Potential contenders could include firms exploring ultra-large freighters, aerial cargo platforms, or customized solutions for oversized payloads.

Strategic Context

While the RFI does not signal an immediate procurement decision, it lays the groundwork for future contracts that could redefine air cargo standards.

Companies have until Jan. 29 to respond to the RFI announcement.

AerCap, Delta, GE Aerospace, and ACG announce major aircraft deals

Several major developments were announced Tuesday across the global aviation industry, underscoring ongoing efforts by airlines and leasing firms to modernize fleets and support long-term growth.

AerCap Holdings N.V.

AerCap Holdings N.V., the world’s largest aircraft leasing company, announced it has signed purchase and leaseback agreements with Virgin Atlantic for six new Airbus A330-900 aircraft. The planes will be drawn from Virgin Atlantic’s existing order book, with deliveries scheduled between the second quarter of 2026 and the fourth quarter of 2027.

Delta Air Lines

In a separate announcement, Delta Air Lines placed its first direct order with The Boeing Company for up to 60 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The initial firm order covers 30 Boeing 787-10s, with options for an additional 30. The 787-10, the longest variant of the Dreamliner family, accommodates up to 336 passengers and offers 25% lower fuel consumption than the aircraft it replaces, delivering the lowest operating cost per seat among widebody jets. Delta plans to deploy the aircraft on high-demand transatlantic and South American routes, supporting its international expansion and fleet renewal strategy.

The order increases Delta’s total Boeing commitments to 130 aircraft, including 100 Boeing 737-10s for single-aisle operations. The airline currently operates more than 460 Boeing aircraft across its network.

GE Aerospace

Supporting the engine side of the deal, GE Aerospace confirmed that Delta has selected GEnx engines to power the 30 787-10s, with options for the additional 30 aircraft. The agreement includes spare engines and long-term service support. The GEnx family has accumulated over 70 million flight hours since its 2011 introduction and currently powers two-thirds of the global 787 fleet. Delta’s existing fleet includes more than 1,300 aircraft powered by GE Aerospace and CFM International engines.

Aviation Capital Group LLC

Meanwhile, Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG), a leading aircraft asset manager, placed a new order for 50 Boeing 737 MAX jets—25 737-8s and 25 737-10s. The acquisition brings ACG’s total of 737 MAX order book to 121 aircraft, making it the largest lessor purchaser of the 737-10 variant. As of Sept. 30, ACG owns, manages, or has committed to approximately 470 aircraft, serving around 90 airlines in 50 countries.

US extends maintenance contract to keep ‘Doomsday Plane’ flying

The United States Air Force has extended a major contract to ensure the continued operational readiness of its fleet of E-4B “Nightwatch” aircraft, which serve as the nation’s primary airborne command centers for top leadership.

On Monday, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Tinker Air Force Base announced it awarded a $2.7 billion Contractor Logistics Support contract to The Boeing Company for the E-4B program. The contract provides for ten one-year ordering periods and an additional six-month extension, securing long-term support for the critical fleet.

LAX Appearance

Los Angeles International Airport became an unexpected focal point for global attention earlier this week after one of the Doomsday planes was spotted on its tarmac. The Department of Defense later confirmed the aircraft was carrying Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a leg of his national “Arsenal of Freedom” tour, aimed at promoting U.S. defense capabilities and military recruitment.

The contract extension announced on Monday covers comprehensive maintenance and logistics for the four E-4B aircraft stationed in San Antonio, Texas. The scope of work includes program management, aircraft depot-level maintenance, supply chain management, on-site field service representatives, and complete engine maintenance and overhauls.

The Mission

The E-4B, a highly modified Boeing 747-200, is a key component of the U.S. National Military Command System. Its primary mission is to provide a survivable command, control, and communications hub for the President of the United States, the Secretary of Defense, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In a national crisis or conflict, the aircraft, known as the National Airborne Operations Center, allows senior leaders to direct U.S. military forces, execute emergency war orders, and coordinate with government agencies from a secure, airborne platform. The aircraft is powered by four General Electric (G.E.) CF6-50 engines.

SpaceX Crew-11 to return early from space station due to ‘medical issue’

NASA and SpaceX are targeting the early return of four astronauts from the International Space Station later this week, following a medical issue with one of the crew members. The mission, known as Crew-11, is now slated to undock and splash down ahead of its original schedule.

Undocking of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is now targeted for no earlier than 5 p.m. EST on Wednesday, pending favorable weather conditions. The crew is scheduled to splash down off the coast of California at approximately 3:40 a.m. EST on Thursday.

Returning to Earth are NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, along with Kimiya Yui from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Oleg Platonov from the Russian space agency Roscosmos.

NASA officials announced the decision to expedite the crew's return on Thursday. The agency has stated that a crew member is dealing with a medical concern but is in stable condition. Due to medical privacy, NASA will not provide any further details about the nature of the issue or the individual involved.

The return timeline is contingent on several factors, including final spacecraft checks, the readiness of the recovery team, and weather and sea conditions at the splashdown site. Mission managers will select a precise time and location for the landing closer to the undocking event.