Two deals have kicked off aviation services consolidation in 2019, with Danish freight-forwarder DSV launching a bid for Swiss rival Panalpina, and Menzies Aviation securing approval to acquire UK ground handler Airline Services.

The government debacles that are played out on both sides of the Atlantic appear, on the surface, to be about different issues.

The partial shutdown at FAA is likely to delay several major airspace-modernization and safety initiatives, including implementation of new approach procedures at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and the roll-out of taxiway-landing warning systems at major US airports.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has operated its first flight powered by a mix of standard kerosene and biofuel produced in the emirate.

Wait times at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) airport checkpoints leveled off on Jan. 16, but US lawmakers remain anxious that the respite will not last if the ongoing partial federal government shutdown drags on into February.

European pilot representatives have accused Ryanair of using the threat of base closures as a “weapon” to force pilots and cabin crew into signing collective labor agreements (CLAs).

Airline executives acknowledge that the partial US government shutdown is affecting their businesses, but they are downplaying both immediate and long-term ramifications, seemingly betting on a near-term resolution to the stalemate that began Dec. 22, 2018.

FAA is recalling aviation safety inspectors and engineers to work without pay during the ongoing partial shutdown of US government agencies.