The World of Aviation

Air France became the first European airline to take delivery of an Airbus A380 when the French carrier’s first example was handed over in a ceremony at Hamburg on October 30. The Engine Alliance GP7200 powered aircraft, configured to seat 538 passengers in a nine first class, 80 business class and 449 economy class arrangement,

A Qantas Boeing 737-800 operating QF593 from Adelaide to Perth landed safely after issuing a pan call as the captain became incapacitated through illness on October 30. The 737, which was carrying 110 passengers and was approximately one hour from landing when the captain became incapacitated, forcing the copilot to issue a pan radio call,

Lufthansa says that it will reschedule some aircraft deliveries originally due in 2010-2013 in order to preserve the company’s capital. The airline has not said which aircraft are likely to be delivered, but reports indicate that it may include Airbus A320s and Embraer E-Jets.

The worldwide fleet of over 600 Embraer E-Jets has surpassed over three million flight hours, the Brazilian manufacturer announced on October 29.

Melbourne based consultancy Airbiz Aviation Strategies has been awarded the 2009 Small to Medium Services Award at the Governor of Victoria Export Award ceremony at Government House in Melbourne. “We operate in a very dynamic sector, with aviation and airport businesses constantly demanding change and addressing new challenges,” said Airbiz CEO Greg Fordham.  “To stay

Tiger Airways Australia will add a number of frequencies from Melbourne and Sydney next year, amidst reports that it is looking to move to Avalon. From January 2010, the carrier will add from Melbourne an extra weekly service to the Sunshine Coast, an extra daily service to Hobart, six weekly to the Gold Coast and