Airbus and the Commercial Aircraft Corp. of China (COMAC) have signed a memorandum of understanding in an effort to enable a sustainable growth in air transport.

Premium air travel in international markets grew 4.2% in 2013, a 0.6 point slide from 2012’s 4.8% growth, “[but] while this is a slowdown … growth has picked up over recent months, reflecting improvements in the business environment,” according to IATA’s December Premium Traffic Monitor.

The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said it “has not identified any anomalies” with the United Parcel Service (UPS) Airbus A300-600 freighter that crashed on approach to Birmingham, Ala., Airport (BHM) on Aug. 14, 2013.

The European Commission has adopted new guidelines on state aid for airports and airlines aimed at ensuring good regional connectivity, but also minimizing competition distortion in the single market.

Budget carrier Norwegian is playing down reports that it might buy into US carriers if its newly-formed Irish arm fails to secure a permit for transatlantic operations.

Australian government comments that it is “looking closely" at the Qantas Airways’ financial position and “actively considering the issue” of a relaxation of ownership controls or debt relief have prompted a public lash back from rival Virgin Australia.

Air France management has confirmed that negotiations taking place with Air France's pilot unions and believes an agreement will be reached soon.

Kunming, China-based Ruili Airlines has moved one step closer towards launching operations after being granted an operating license by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).