Aerospace

As the industry’s biggest air show of 2026 approaches, Aviation Week editors and data analysts sit down to discuss the latest hot points in defense, commercial aviation and space — and take your questions live.

Delta begins retrofitting 737 fleet with VCT's drag-reducing finlets after validation shows 1.2% fuel burn reduction.

An Airbus A319 destined for modification into a prototype air tanker for aerial firefighting specialist Neptune Aviation Services has arrived in Dothan, Alabama, for conversion work.

Airbus appears to be leaning toward a simple stretch of the A220, as it weighs its options for a larger version of the aircraft.

Almost 10 years ago, Qantas began planning nonstop flights to London and New York. Soon the airline needs to prove that the flights are viable.

Polymer material specialist Clayens took over Vision Systems in May and now intends to ramp up production and strengthen the acquired company’s product range.

It is hard to overstate the importance of ETOPS (extended range twin engine operations); this game-changing regulation accounts for thousands of long-haul flights around the world every day.

Aura Aero acquires VoltAero’s assets, leveraging hybrid-electric expertise to advance its ERA 19-seater and expand its operational base in Rochefort.

Dutch startup Conscious Aerospace believes retrofitting existing regional aircraft offers the most practical path to bringing hydrogen-electric propulsion into commercial service.

Near-VTOL maritime stroke UAS; fully superconducting electric motor for aircraft; lithium-air battery advances.

Vaeridion advocates for full electric propulsion, contending that it offers a more manageable technical and regulatory path than hybrid-electric.

A U.S. startup has secured funding to begin scaling up a battery chemistry that promises to enable a three-four times improvement in drone performance.

Startical plans a satellite constellation to extend VHF communications, improve safety and enable better flightpaths while reducing costs.

Strathclyde demonstrates a 100-kW superconducting motor and works with Airbus to develop a megawatt-level prototype for future aircraft propulsion.

AeroVironment, Inc., a global defense technology leader, is expanding its advanced production capabilities in Ohio and creating 200 new jobs.

The promoters of the Aero Excellence International supplier assessment program, launched in mid-2024, have gathered encouraging results.

Dassault Aviation has commenced flight testing for its largest business jet yet with the Falcon 10X taking to the air on June 19.

The Brazilian airframer is working off a position of strength in the regional and small narrowbody markets. But what is next?

As air vehicles move to production, the Air Force focuses on autonomy competition.

Laminar flow and cryogenic propulsion top technology lists in the NASA studies.

The National Air and Space Museum’s 50th anniversary and the 250th of the U.S. invite reflection on self-determination and overcoming challenges.

JetZero has revealed key design changes to its blended wing body demonstrator as it moves toward the first flight readiness assessment at the end of the year.

FAA extends 777 nacelle upgrade deadline to 2033 while giving Boeing until 2029 to finalize Pratt-powered fleet modifications.

Washington Manassas Airport prepares for commercial service with a new terminal and a $38M control tower as an unnamed carrier plans a 2027 launch.

As airframers ponder the next-generation single-aisle aircraft, the aerospace industry considers what the proportion of composite materials its airframe and propulsion system will rely on.