South African Airways (SAA) and CemAir have announced a landmark domestic codeshare partnership that promises to significantly reshape the South African aviation landscape. Unveiled in Johannesburg on 16 January 2026, the agreement strengthens connectivity between the country’s major metropolitan hubs and a range of niche regional and leisure destinations, many of which have not previously been served directly by SAA. In a move that underscores a renewed focus on domestic gro

As Airlink, South Africa’s largest regional airline, continues an ambitious fleet renewal that already includes next-generation Embraer E195-E2 jets, attention is turning toward the future of its smallest regional aircraft, the Embraer ERJ135. The airline is now considering the Embraer E175-E2 as a potential successor for its ageing E135/E140 fleet, though such a move remains a long-term prospect rather than an immediate commitment. Embraer E175-E2 For decades, South Africa’s

Cirrus Aircraft has lifted the curtain on its 2026 SR Series G7+ lineup, introducing a suite of refinements across the SR20, SR22 and SR22T that further sharpen the ownership experience while reinforcing the brand’s long-standing focus on safety, connectivity and pilot convenience. The latest generation brings expanded avionics capabilities, enhanced global connectivity, refreshed design collections and, for the first time on the SR22, an optional four-blade composite propell

At a recent ceremony, Lockheed Martin handed over its 350th MH-60R "Romeo" helicopter to the United States Navy. The aircraft was formally accepted by Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 41 during a ceremony at the company’s Owego, New York facility, underscoring the continued importance of the MH-60R as the world’s most advanced multi-mission maritime helicopter. HSM-41 serves as the U.S. Navy’s Helicopter Maritime Strike Fleet Replacement Squadron, responsible for tra

On Saturday, 17 January 2026, NASA marked a defining moment in the modern era of human spaceflight as the Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft completed their rollout to Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. The milestone signals the start of final launch preparations for the first crewed mission to the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972 and represents a major step forward in the agency’s ambitious Artemis programme. The rollout began at 7:0

As the aviation sector enters 2026, Cathay Pacific is celebrating a significant milestone in its rich history with the official commencement of its 80th anniversary festivities. Embracing the theme "80 Years Together," the Hong Kong-based airline is honouring eight decades of linking its home city to the globe, while paying tribute to the individuals, partnerships, and collective journeys that have contributed to its legacy since its establishment in 1946. The anniversary pro

The U.S. Air Force has taken a significant step in upgrading its pilot training program with the official introduction of the first T-7A Red Hawk into operational service. The ceremony took place in early January 2026 at Joint Base San Antonio–Randolph, Texas. This event marks the transition of the advanced jet trainer from development and testing phases to being part of the Air Force’s active inventory, heralding a new chapter in undergraduate pilot training. The Boeing-Saab

By Garth Calitz Flying light aircraft in or near thunderstorms poses a considerable risk anywhere in the world, but this danger is especially pronounced in South Africa. The country's geography and climate are particularly favourable for severe convective weather, particularly in the summer. For general aviation pilots navigating around South Africa, especially the Highveld region, it is crucial to understand the distinctive features of South African thunderstorms for safe f

Boeing has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the global aviation community by announcing the continuation of its Platinum Level sponsorship of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) flagship event, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. The renewed agreement, announced on 5 January 2026, extends the partnership for a further three years and ensures Boeing’s continued prominent presence at what is widely regarded as the world’s greatest aviation gathering. Since formally begi

Gulfstream Aerospace has achieved another significant milestone with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) granting steep-approach landing certification to the Gulfstream G500 and G600. The approval further expands the operational flexibility of these award-winning business jets, enabling access to a wider range of airports across Europe and beyond, including those with challenging terrain, short runways, or noise-sensitive environments. The certification allows th