The World of Aviation

Boeing’s evergreen 737 program achieved a major milestone on July 16 when the 5,000th example of the 737NG was rolled off the company’s Renton production line. The aircraft, a C-40A Clipper (737-700C) will be operated as a convertible passenger and cargo transport by the US Navy. “This milestone is another testament to the popularity of

Airbus Defence and Space has released a series of images of a Royal Air Force A330 MRTT Voyager refuelling an A400M transport over southern Spain. Taken from what appears to be a Spanish Air Force EF-18M chase plane, the refuelling was one of a series conducted over four days during which the A400m received 80 tonnes

Qantas has been awarded TRUEngine status by engine OEM General Electric for its 66 GE CF6-80Es which power its fleet of Airbus A330-200 and -300s. The status recognises the airline’s maintenance standards of the engines in service. “Qantas Airlines is demonstrating its commitment to OEM quality engine maintenance by adding this new TRUEngine designation,” president

Etihad Airways started non-stop services between Perth and Abu Dhabi on July 16 when the first aircraft, an A340-600 operating flight EY486, touched down at Perth at 13:10 local. Perth is the airline’s fourth Australian destination after Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and will be served by daily direct flights from Abu Dhabi. The flights depart at

Air arms and supporting forces from seven countries will participate in the largest air exercise to be held in Australia, Exercise Pitch Black from August 1. The action will be centred on RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal in the Northern territory, and will include elements from Australia, the US, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, the UAE,

Adelaide Airport has released its Preliminary Draft Master Plan to highlight its growth plans out to 2034. The Plan includes infrastructure projects being considered in the short term while also providing a road-map to guide the airport’s operations in the longer term. “Adelaide Airport continues to grow as a major economic and employment generator in