Aviation Daily Brief - November 15, 2025

Major US Aviation Updates

• End of Government Shutdown and ATC Recovery:
  • The US government shutdown has ended, allowing the DOT to begin recovery efforts.
  • The FAA is maintaining a 6% reduction in flights at approximately 40 high-impact airports due to staffing challenges.
  • Staffing is improving as air traffic controllers are being paid, with no reported shortages.
  • Airlines are urging the FAA to lift flight restrictions, although some noncompliance has been noted.
  • Emergency orders continue to limit certain general aviation operations and late-night commercial space activities.
• Travel Impacts:
  • Weather-related disruptions, including lake-effect snow, are causing delays in the US Midwest.
  • Travelers are advised to check for nonstops and quick rebook options.

Incidents and Safety Reports

• Aircraft Incidents:
  • An Air Peace flight experienced an engine failure, prompting calls for investigation into the airline's older aircraft.
  • A UPS cargo crash in Louisville has led to the grounding of the MD-11 fleet.
  • A close call in Melbourne involved two flights passing just meters over construction workers, raising safety concerns.
• Training Plane Issue:
  • A training aircraft in India made an emergency landing on a highway due to a technical fault; investigations are ongoing.
• Heartbreaking News Reference:
  • Condolences were expressed for an unspecified aviation-related incident, with details remaining vague.

Business and Industry Developments

• Airline and Fleet Updates:
  • Cathay Pacific has repurchased Qatar Airways' stake for approximately $896 million.
  • British Airways is cutting three European routes from Heathrow.
  • Ryanair completed its Boeing deliveries ahead of schedule.
  • EasyJet plans to phase out its A319 fleet by 2030.
  • The Australian government is supporting Air T's acquisition of Rex with $150 million.
  • AirAsia is planning a new hub in Bahrain, targeting 20 million passengers.
• Other News:
  • Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad resolved recent aerotrain disruptions and introduced a daily maintenance window.
  • The French Navy has become the first European military operator of the Pilatus PC-24.
  • Rolls-Royce unveiled a new "XE" standard for its Trent 1000 engine.
  • Concerns were raised over a potential setback for aviation plans in Jersey after government support was withdrawn.

Broader Context

• Ongoing discussions in aviation highlight flight cuts due to US ATC issues and a PIA A320 incident involving a wrong runway during diversion.
• Sentiment on social media reflects relief over the end of the shutdown but frustration with ongoing travel disruptions.

For the latest updates, check official sources like the FAA, FlightAware, or airline apps.