UK-based low-cost carrier (LCC) easyJet hopes to have a hovering drone in service “in 12-18 months” to conduct aircraft inspections, easyJet revealed at its Innovation Day meeting at Milan-Malpensa Airport.

Alitalia introduced a new brand, aircraft livery and visual identity on an Airbus A330-200 as the Italian flag carrier revitalizes its business.

Airbus has shipped the first A320 large aircraft components from Hamburg, Germany to its Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Mobile, Alabama, as its first US-produced A320 is on scheduled begin this summer.

Shenzhen Airlines, a subsidiary of Air China and a Star Alliance member, has agreed to buy 46 Boeing 737s, according to an Air China filing with the Shanghai Stock Exchange.

Austrian Airlines’ supervisory board has approved the purchase of 17 Embraer E-195s with a list price of close to $900 million.

European turboprop manufacturer ATR has ruled out a shrink-version of its ATR 42, but is looking to tap the market for 30-seater replacements and calling for changes to European passenger-cargo combi rules.

Aircraft & Engines-June 2, 2015

The first Airbus A350 XWB destined for Vietnam Airlines flew June 1, beginning a rapid ramp-up of A350 production that will see three new operators take delivery of the aircraft this year.