AeroMexico adds new service from Ontario, Calif., to Aguascalientes, Leon/El Bajio and Morelia beginning the week of April 2, bringing the total number of weekly flights from Ontario to 19. Separately, AeroMexico took delivery last week of its first 777 from Boeing. With the delivery, it also "becomes the first airline in the Americas to receive Boeing's Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag," the airframer said. The airline will take a second 777-200ER in April.

The US National Transportation Safety Board on Friday urged FAA to order immediate inspections of the inner skin of the composite rudder surfaces of certain A300 series aircraft in order potentially to avert the possibility of "a catastrophic failure of the rudder," NTSB Acting Chairman Mark Rosenker said in a statement.

The A380 successfully completed its passenger evacuation test yesterday, "paving the way [for European aviation authorities] to certify the aircraft in time for delivery by the end of 2006," Airbus said. The aircraft, A380 MSN7, was fitted with a very-high-density cabin layout featuring 853 seats, all of which were occupied. In addition, there were two cockpit crewmembers and 18 cabin crew from Lufthansa onboard to manage the evacuation.

Rockwell Collins said its SAT-2100 high-speed data satellite communication system was selected as a supplier-furnished equipment option on the A320 family. Certification, expected in January 2007, will mark the first Airbus certification for the SAT-2100.

MASkargo, Malaysia Airlines' cargo operation, took delivery of its firm 747-400 freighter from Boeing earlier this week. It will receive a second later this year.

AMC Airlines of Egypt took delivery of the first of four 737-800s Tuesday. Aircraft are being acquired through GE Commercial Aviation Services.

Royal Jordanian announced, as expected, a firm order yesterday for seven Embraer 195s. Aircraft will be powered by GE CF34-10s and laid out in a 100-seat, two-class configuration. According to an industry source, RJ also took options on an additional eight 195s. The Amman-based carrier will take delivery of three of the aircraft in the final quarter of this year, two in 2007 and two in early 2008. It is purchasing four, while three will be on operating leases from GE Commercial Aviation Services.

General Electric said its GEnx engine for the 787, 747-8 and A350 demonstrated 80,500 lb. of takeoff thrust in its first ground test yesterday at the company's outdoor testing facility in Peebles, Ohio. The GEnx is scheduled to certify at 75,000 lb. in 2007, with service entry on the Dreamliner in 2008. Seven engines will be used in the certification programs. In a statement, GEnx GM Tom Brisken said, "Engine assembly was flawless, and engine testing began three days ahead of schedule.