Aviation News - 2026-09-02

US extends ban on flights to Haiti's capital as gang violence surges

The FAA has extended its ban on U.S. flights to Port-au-Prince until March as gang violence continues to threaten aviation safety in Haiti’s capital. The move follows earlier incidents that put commercial aircraft at risk, underscoring how security on the ground can quickly reshape airline operations. Read more.

Brussels Airlines workers threaten strike over flights to Israel

A Belgian union is warning of possible strike action at Brussels Airlines over crew assignments on flights to Israel. Staff representatives cite both safety and ethical concerns amid the continuing conflict, highlighting the growing operational pressures airlines face when serving politically sensitive or high-risk destinations. Read more.

Turkish low-cost operator Pegasus becomes AirAsia’s first-ever codeshare partner

Pegasus Airlines is set to become AirAsia’s first-ever codeshare partner, marking a notable step for both low-cost airline groups. The partnership strengthens connectivity between Asia and Türkiye, while AirAsia also plans to increase services to Istanbul from 2027—a route development worth watching for budget-conscious globetrotters. Read more.

Zelenskyy puts insurers on notice as Russian airspace becomes a war-risk flashpoint

Ukraine’s president has warned commercial airlines and insurers that Russian airspace is becoming increasingly unsafe, pointing to expanding drone activity inside Russia. The comments add fresh pressure to aviation risk assessments, insurance coverage decisions, and route planning in a region already heavily affected by war-related airspace restrictions. Read more.

Kenya aviation workers end strike that disrupted flights: Officials

Aviation workers in Kenya have ended a strike that disrupted flights at the country’s main international gateway and other airports. Officials say staff returned to work under an agreement while negotiations continue, bringing welcome relief to passengers and airlines after a period of operational disruption. Read more.

Air Baltic slashes destinations from main tri-capital network

Air Baltic is trimming destinations from its key tri-capital network as the Latvian carrier refocuses on stronger markets for summer 2027. The changes follow a revised business plan at the loss-making airline, making this a significant network strategy shift for fans tracking European regional connectivity. Read more.

Alaska-Hawaiian Pilots to Management: It’s Time to Reach an Agreement

Pilots from Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are pressing management to reach a deal as negotiations continue. Their message reflects the importance of labor agreements in airline integration and day-to-day operations, especially as crews look for clarity, stability, and progress during a major period of corporate change. Read more.

Sikorsky S-35 Biplane Crash

A look back at September 21, 1926, recalls the tragic crash of the Sikorsky S-35 biplane during takeoff from Roosevelt Field in New York. The accident killed the aircraft’s radio operator and mechanic, serving as a sobering reminder of the risks faced during aviation’s daring early decades. Read more.

Charles Lindbergh Bails Out of Mailplane

On September 16, 1926, Charles Lindbergh bailed out of a mailplane over Illinois after fuel exhaustion while flying for Robertson Aircraft Corp. This dramatic episode became part of the formative flying experience that helped shape Lindbergh before his later world-famous transatlantic achievement. Read more.

Rainbow Ryders speak on the oldest form of human flight on Aviation Day

For National Aviation Day, Rainbow Ryders pilot Jon Thompson shared the magic and history of hot air ballooning—the oldest form of human flight. It’s a charming reminder that aviation isn’t only about jets and airports; sometimes it begins with a basket, a burner, and a sky full of wonder. Read more.