After years of missteps, false promises and multiple delays on the 787-8 and A380 programs, Boeing and Airbus are cruising into the Farnborough Airshow able to boast about smooth, successful flight test programs for the 787-9 and A350-900, respectively.

UK carrier Virgin Atlantic has firmed up one of its five Boeing 787-9 options and will decide this year whether to cancel or further defer its Airbus A380 order.

Russia’s VIM Avia is considering adding the Embraer E-195 to its fleet, according to airline spokesperson Elena Fedorova.

British Airways (BA) has unveiled new seats and cabin interiors for its short-haul fleet, which operate domestic and European services from London Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

Russia’s UTair Express Airlines has signed a technical support agreement with PowerJet for the SaM146 engines that power its fleet of Sukhoi Superjet 100LRs (SSJ100LRs).

The fifth and final aircraft in the Airbus A350 WXB flight-test program completed its first flight Friday from the company’s Toulouse facility.

The UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has made a series of recommendations to test lithium metal batteries more strenuously during certification following a fire onboard a parked Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 787 at London Heathrow Airport.

Airbus continues to study the feasibility of launching a re-engined version of the A330, but is in no hurry to make a decision.