US Air Force requests a business case analysis for fleet of E-7A aircraft

The acquisition of new E-7 Wedgetail radar aircraft by the Air Force may not be completely dead, according to contract documents released Tuesday.

In June, the U.S. Air Force canceled plans to acquire new E-7A Wedgetail aircraft from Boeing due to significant delays and cost increases.

“The Department is canceling the E-7 Wedgetail program due to significant delays with cost increases from $588 million to $724 million for aircraft and survivability concerns in this contested environment, while investing in alternate solutions, including space-based capabilities and adding additional E-2D aircraft,” a senior military official told reporters in June.

Meanwhile, a Request for Information (RFI) document released this week shows the Air Force is now requesting a Product Support Business Case Analysis (PS-BCA) to be performed concerning the E-7As.

According to the RFI, the Department of the Air Force would acquire the E-7A aircraft to replace a portion of the E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System fleet.

“The E-7A will provide critical airborne early warning, surveillance, and battle management capabilities. To ensure optimal fleet readiness and long-term affordability, the E-3/E-7A SPO is seeking to identify sources capable of performing a comprehensive Product Support Business Case Analysis,” the Air Force said in the RFI.

“The objective of this BCA is to identify the most effective and efficient product support strategy for the E-7A fleet throughout its planned life cycle. The PS-BCA will need to accommodate a fleet of at least two but possibly up to 26 aircraft. The analysis will inform the Air Force’s decision-making process for structuring the E-7A’s sustainment enterprise.” The BCA will include costs, benefits, and risks of different product support strategies for the E-7A aircraft.

The Air Force made clear that the BCA RFI is issued solely for information and planning purposes; it does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) or a promise to issue an RFP in the future.

Companies interested in supporting the BCA request have until May 11 to respond to the Air Force E-7A System Program Office.

Australia Sends E-7A Wedgetail to Persian Gulf

The Iranian conflict in the Middle East began just over a week ago and Iran's reprisal attacks continue to escalate. Twelve countries across the region, from Cyprus through to the Gulf, are continuing to be targeted by Iran. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) alone has been forced to shoot down over 1,500 rockets and drones.

In response to a request from the UAE, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday, “Australia will deploy an E-7A Wedgetail, to the Gulf to help protect and defend Australians and other civilians. The Wedgetail will provide long-range reconnaissance capability, which will help to protect and secure the airspace above the Gulf. The Wedgetail and supporting Australian Defence Force personnel will be deployed for an initial four weeks in support of the collective self-defense of Gulf nations.”

The E-7 Wedgetail “is one of the leading capabilities in the world in terms of airborne long-range reconnaissance and command,” said Richard Marles, Australia’s deputy prime minister. “We are one of the leading nations in the use of the E-7. What this aircraft will be doing is very similar to the role that it has played in recent times from Poland in respect of the defense of Ukraine. There will be in the order of 85 personnel who will go with this airframe and that's the normal crew. The airframe will be leaving Australia today and the expectation is that it will be in the region in the middle of the week and operational by the end of the week.”

Prime Minister Albanese stated there are more than 20,000 Australian lives in the UAE.

Dassault Aviation rolls out the Falcon 10X—its most ambitious business jet ever

More than 400 customers, partners and aviation executives gathered in a production hall at Dassault Aviation’s Bordeaux‑Mérignac facility on Tuesday to watch the company unveil the Falcon 10X, a business jet the manufacturer says is its most ambitious platform to date.

The Falcon 10X introduces the largest, most comfortable, and most versatile cabin ever designed in a purpose-built business jet.

“The objective,” says Dassault President & CEO Eric Trappier, “is to allow passengers to experience time on board the aircraft as just another part of their everyday life, not as a long interval between origin and destination. So, they arrive feeling refreshed and at their very best.”

The aircraft’s spacious interior is eight inches wider and two inches taller than its nearest competitor's, enabling owners to design interiors that feel more like modern living or working environments.

Technology Drawn from Cutting-edge Military Aircraft

Engineers applied expertise drawn from the company’s cutting-edge military aircraft programs to advance aerodynamics, materials, avionics and flight controls.  Dassault remains the only manufacturer in the world designing and building both advanced fighter jets and business aircraft—a cross-disciplinary advantage now reflected in the Falcon 10X.

The Falcon 10X will cruise at speeds approaching the sound barrier with a top speed of .925 Mach and has a maximum range of 7,500 nautical miles, allowing it to easily connect the world's most popular city pairs such as New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Sydney,  São Paulo to Dubai or Beijing to Paris.

At a cruising altitude of 41,000 feet, cabin pressure will be maintained at an exceptionally low 3,000 feet, complemented by 100 percent fresh air continuously renewed throughout the cabin and individually adjustable temperature zones. The 10X’s entirely new fuselage features 38 extra-large windows—nearly 50 percent larger than those on the Falcon 8X—that flood the cabin with natural light.

Measuring 9 feet, 1 inch wide (2.77 m) and 6 feet, 8 inches tall (2.03 m), the cabin is larger than some regional jets. Customers can configure three- or four-zone interiors, including expansive dining areas, Falcon Privacy Suites, full-size bedrooms, and even optional shower installations.

Flight Deck

The Falcon 10X introduces the NeXus flight deck, the most advanced cockpit ever installed in a business jet.

Designed to reduce pilot workload and enhance situational awareness—especially during demanding phases of flight—the NeXus cockpit integrates large touch-screen displays with new automation tools that help crews manage complex missions with greater confidence.

A standard dual FalconEye Enhanced Vision System adds further safety and capability in low visibility, with new features that aid in the most complex maneuvers, such as night circling approaches.

The Falcon 10X also introduces the third generation of Dassault’s digital flight-control system in a business aircraft.  Integrated with a Smart Throttle, inspired by the controls of the Rafale fighter, the system automatically manages both engines through a single control while assisting pilots with functions such as noise-abatement climbs and stabilized go-arounds. These combined digital capabilities make possible the first automatic recovery mode in a large business jet, further extending the safety envelope.

Engine Power

The new Pearl 10X engine features the Advance2 engine core, the most efficient core available across the business aviation sector, and combines it with a high-performance low-pressure system, resulting in a superior thrust of more than 18,000 lb. The Pearl 10X offers a step-change in power and efficiency, while delivering outstanding low noise and emissions performance.

This combination will enable operators to have premium airport accessibility and fly ultra-long-range connections, whilst also being able to travel close to the speed of sound. 

Next Step

With the unveiling complete, the Falcon 10X program now moves toward its next big milestone: flight testing. Once airborne, the aircraft will begin an extensive evaluation campaign designed to validate its performance and bring the most advanced Falcon ever built into service.

April and May will be big for Contour Airlines in Utah

Contour Airlines announced Monday that it will expand its flight schedule at Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY) for April and May, adding 19 weekly flights to and from the popular mountain town hub.

The airline will now operate seven weekly departures to Phoenix, Arizona, and twelve weekly departures to Denver, Colo., bringing the combined Moab‑Phoenix‑Denver service to a maximum of 19 flights per week.

The added capacity is aimed at meeting the heightened demand that typically accompanies the spring tourism season in the American West. Moab, a gateway to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, sees a surge in visitors eager to explore its red‑rock canyons, world-class climbing routes and mountain‑bike trails.

“We’re excited to expand our service in Moab and offer additional flights during the busy spring travel season,” said Ben Munson, president of Contour Airlines. “Moab continues to be a popular destination for travelers, and these additional flights will make it even easier for visitors from around the world to explore the region’s world-class outdoor recreation, including nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.”

Passengers on the 30-seat regional jets will receive extra legroom, complimentary snacks and beverages, one free checked bag and one free carry-on bag with every fare.

Massachusetts Governor orders Signature Aviation to end services for ICE deportation flights at Hanscom Field

Governor Maura Healey is demanding that Signature Aviation end its role in facilitating deportation flights for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from Hanscom Field Airport in Massachusetts.

Signature Aviation provides ground services for pilots, passengers, and crews through a network of 220 locations around the globe. Hanscom Field is one of them. The company arranges hotel rooms, ground transportation, and fuel services for flights.

In a letter to Signature Aviation CEO Tony Lefebvre, Governor Healey urged Signature Aviation to immediately sever ties with ICE and stop providing services that support deportation flights out of Hanscom, including charter operators, fueling aircraft, and facilitating access to the airfield and tarmac.

“You have a choice to either continue profiting from ICE’s unlawful tactics that are depriving people of due process and separating parents from their children, or you can stand with the people and communities you say that you serve,” wrote Healey. “I urge Signature and its owners to stand with our people and communities and cease supporting ICE’s damaging deportation efforts immediately. Enough is enough.”

Signature Aviation is the sole fixed base operator (FBO) facilitating ICE charter flights at Hanscom Field and plays an indispensable role in enabling these deportation operations. Signature Aviation provides the access and logistical support that make these flights possible, including coordinating aircraft services, fueling, and securing access to the airfield. ICE’s reliance on private charter flights allows the agency to rapidly remove individuals from their families, communities, and legal counsel, undermining due process protections. Without Signature’s participation, ICE would be unable to operate private deportation flights from Hanscom Field.

“ICE’s enforcement tactics in Massachusetts and across the country have created widespread fear in communities and raised serious concerns about due process and constitutional protections,” according to a press release issued by Healey’s office.

She has called on ICE to cease deportation flights out of Hanscom and urged private airlines and aviation companies to stop providing charter flights that facilitate these removals.

First-ever long-haul route for GOL Linhas Aéreas

In a landmark move for Brazilian aviation, GOL Linhas Aéreas has officially announced the launch of its first-ever long-haul route, signaling a robust new phase in the airline's international expansion strategy.

Starting on July 8, the carrier will begin operating direct, non-stop flights connecting Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG) in Rio de Janeiro to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City. This highly anticipated service will feature three weekly frequencies and was developed through a strategic partnership with the Rio de Janeiro City Hall.

This major operational milestone follows the company's recent strategic decision to incorporate wide-body aircraft into its growing fleet, enabling the airline to cover longer distances and offer enhanced comfort for intercontinental travel.

GOL's commitment to the city of Rio de Janeiro is substantial. The airline has made extensive investments totaling approximately $ 1.2 billion in local assets.

Currently, GOL operates more than 30 domestic and international routes originating from Rio de Janeiro. These operations play a crucial role in the local economy, significantly contributing to the generation of highly qualified jobs and driving broad economic benefits.

By establishing a direct link between two of the most vital tourism and business hubs in South and North America, GOL is successfully solidifying its strategy for overseas growth. This connection opens a wide array of new options and opportunities for customers throughout the entire continent.

The exciting news was formally revealed during a high-profile press event held on Friday at RIOgaleão. The ceremony featured the presence of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes, Vice Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere, ABRA's CEO Adrian Neuhauser, GOL's CEO Celso Ferrer, alongside various other authorities.

Air Mobility Command Museum calls for contractor to restore iconic static‑display aircraft

The Air Mobility Command (AMC) Museum at Dover Air Force Base, Del., is seeking a qualified contractor for comprehensive corrosion control and repainting of five of its most iconic static‑display aircraft. The work, which includes the KC‑10A Extender, the C‑133B Cargomaster, the C‑124A Globemaster II, and the C‑45G Expeditor, is scheduled to begin later this spring and is expected to be completed within a 12-month window.

“Due to the historical nature and rare assigned aircraft, the contractor must have a minimum of eight years experience painting large USAF artifact aircraft,” the museum said in contract documents.

KC-10A Extender

The KC-10A Extender (serial number79-0433) was received by the Air Mobility Command (AMC) Museum in 2022. The aircraft currently has the AMC Gray paint scheme applied. The aircraft will be repainted in its original 1981 Strategic Air Command colors of white, blue, and gray.

C-133B Cargomaster

C-133B (serial number 59-0536) was received by the Air Mobility Command Museum in 2006. The aircraft currently has a Dover AFB Military Air Transport Service paint scheme featuring a white "cap" on the fuselage. The aircraft will be repainted in its original 1501st Air Transport Wing all-silver paint job.

C-124A Globemaster II

The C-124A Globemaster II (serial number 49-0258) was received by the Air Mobility Command Museum in 2004. The aircraft currently has a standard Military Air Transport Service paint scheme applied. The aircraft will be repainted in its current all-silver paint job.

C-45G Expeditor

C-45G Expeditor (serial number 51-11795) was received by the Air Mobility Command Museum in 1989. The aircraft currently has a standard Military Air Transport Service paint scheme applied. The aircraft will be repainted in its current silver paint job.

Northrop Grumman supplies first‑ever CIRCM systems to Germany, expanding European footprint

For the first time, defense contractor Northrop Grumman is providing its Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM) system to Germany, reinforcing the company’s position as a leading developer of advanced aircraft survivability systems, with a broadening presence in Europe.

CIRCM, a U.S. Army program, acts as a high-tech shield when installed on the outside of military helicopters. Using advanced electro-optical infrared technology, the system quickly defeats incoming threats, such as shoulder-fired missiles, and shoots a high-performance laser at the threat to jam its targeting signal – disrupting its tracking ability, which causes it to fall away.

Key Highlights:

Germany will receive 47 CIRCM systems as part of a U.S. Army production award.

The CIRCM systems for Germany will be installed on their newly ordered CH-47 Chinook helicopters.

These CIRCM units will modernize capabilities for Germany’s new rotary aircraft, fulfilling NATO combat readiness mission requirements. 

Nearly 700 Northrop Grumman CIRCM systems have been installed on rotary wing aircraft worldwide, making it the most widely used system of its kind. CIRCM is achieving more than 70,000 operational flight hours on Army AH-64, CH-47 and UH-60 rotary aircraft, with an exceptional performance record and no aircraft losses.

“More international partners are recognizing CIRCM’s pioneering protection capabilities to maximize successful missions,” said Leah Hooten, vice president, Aircraft Survivability, Northrop Grumman. “With open architecture, the lightweight CIRCM system stays ready for any mission with the agility for rapid technology upgrades. It’s not only ideal for small aircraft – it’s a crucial system that brings key advantages to our international warfighters.”