Several leading satellite and connectivity providers have voiced reservations about calls for greater standardization, warning it could slow down the pace of connectivity development.

Satellite communications specialist Inmarsat still expects the European Aviation Network (EAN) to be operational by the end of the year, despite an attempt by rival satellite operators to block it.

The United Arab Emirates’ aviation regulator, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), will implement the world’s first airspace structure to be completely based on Performance Based Navigation (PBN) with a navigation specification of RNAV-1 (GNSS).

Delta Air Lines is preparing to launch a new fleet “flagship” aircraft—the Airbus A350-900, which will enter service Oct. 30 on the Detroit-Tokyo Narita route—replacing the iconic Boeing 747-400 that will soon be retired from Delta’s fleet.

Saudi Arabian Airlines has a 72-year history and is undergoing a major change for future operations. Within two years, the carrier has taken delivery of 60 new aircraft; by 2020 fleet size should reach 200. ATW correspondent Kurt Hofmann is the first Western journalist to visit the carrier's head office in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.