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FREDERICK, Md.—The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Air Safety Institute (ASI) has released a new episode of its popular Accident Case Study video series.
Boeing is only weeks away from gaining Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for its 737 MAX 7 aircraft, according to a new Wall Street Journal report. Boeing's smallest variant of the MAX family aircraft was officially launched in May 2013, with Southwest Airlines confirmed as the launch customer. The Dallas-based carrier became the first airline to order the 737 MAX 7, with delivery of the first aircraft initially scheduled for 2019. Seven years later, the US planemaker is said to be finally on the cusp of receiving approval for an aircraft that promised so much, but which has yet to deliver. According to the Wall Street Journal , which has spoken to people familiar with the matter, FAA certification could arrive before the end of July 2026. Anna Zvereva / Creative Commons Powered exclusively by CFM International LEAP-1B engines, the mini-MAX is designed to fly up to 172 single-class passengers with a top range of around 3,800 nautical miles. Its competitor aircraft at Airbus are the A220-300, which carriers up to 160 single-class passengers, and the A320neo, with 194 single-class seats. With Airbus' rumored future A220-500 (or Stretch) expected to carry up to 180 single-class passengers, the market is set to be squeezed even further. Boeing's largest MAX aircraft, the 737-10, is also in the final stages of FAA certification, with the Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau indicating it was a case of "dotting 'i's and crossing 't's". RELATED Southwest adds Korea's Air Premia in latest international overseas partner push
The US Department of War announced on July 9, 2026, that two Joint Laser Weapon System (JLWS) agreements had been awarded to nLIGHT Defense and Lockheed Martin Aculight, aimed at turning high-energy laser prototypes into field-ready systems against drones and cruise missiles. The Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreements carry an initial value of $86 million and a total program ceiling of $847 million. They were executed by the Scaled Directed Energy (SCADE) Critical Technology Area, which operates under the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering. According to the department, the program seeks to transition directed energy capabilities from demonstration prototypes into production-oriented platforms. This is intended to give combatant commanders scalable intercept options against both asymmetric and high-tier threats. Scaling from 150 kW to cruise missile defense Initial JLWS prototypes will be rated at approximately 150 kW, a power level suited to countering unmanned aerial systems. Subsequent iterations will be scaled to the 300-500 kW range considered necessary for robust cruise missile defense. A 500 kW integrated system, built around a laser source developed under the High Energy Laser Scaling Initiative (HELSI), will also be developed in parallel. The systems will use containerized form factors designed for modular integration on both ground and naval platforms, allowing rapid fielding across geographic combatant commands. "We must actively defend the homeland against emerging threats," said Emil Michael, Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering, adding that the department was partnering with industry to deliver deep magazine directed energy capabilities across multiple domains. Rebalancing the cost of air defense These awards come amid a wider push to rebalance the cost equation of air defense, after the wars in Ukraine and Iran saw interceptors worth millions of dollars expended against drones costing a few thousand each . Lasers promise speed-of-light engagement, deep magazines and a cost-per-shot measured in dollars of electricity, attributes seen as essential against high-volume drone swarms , though weather and beam stability remain limiting factors. The announcement follows a series of directed energy milestones in the United States, including the first Golden Dome test, which reportedly used directed energy to defeat drones and cruise missiles . The Pentagon is also deliberating over deploying laser-based counter-drone systems at sensitive US locations after repeated incursions near military installations. The push is not limited to the United States. On the same day, July 9, 2026, Germany's procurement agency BAAINBw signed a contract with MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall to develop a containerized high-energy laser weapon system for the German Navy, building on a demonstrator tested aboard the frigate Sachsen. The contract targets an operational system by 2029.
Australian flag carrier Qantas is a key operator of the Airbus A380, with present fleet data made available by ch-aviation showing that the oneworld founding member currently has ten examples of the superjumbo at its disposal , having historically flown two more. At 16.8 years old on average, however, these double-decker widebody quadjets are beginning to show their age, with several currently grounded.
For many aviation enthusiasts, Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is one of the Mediterranean’s hidden gems. Combining year-round sunshine with an interesting mix of European, Middle Eastern and regional airlines, it offers far more variety than its modest size might suggest. Perhaps best of all, aircraft approach directly over Mackenzie Beach, creating one of Europe’s classic plane spotting locations. Add in a hotel overlooking the approach path, and it’s easy to see why Larnaca has become a favourite destination for spotters looking to combine a holiday with some aviation photography. About Larnaca Airport Larnaca is Cyprus’ busiest airport and the island’s principal international gateway. The airport took on this role following the division of Cyprus in 1974, when Nicosia International Airport ceased commercial operations after the Turkish invasion. Since then, Larnaca has developed into one of the eastern Mediterranean’s busiest airports, handling millions of passengers each year on scheduled, charter and low-cost flights. Today it serves as the main base for Cyprus Airways and TUS Airways, while welcoming airlines from across Europe, the Middle East and beyond. The airport has a single runway (04/22), with a modern passenger terminal occupying the south-western side of the airfield. At the opposite end is a remote apron used by cargo aircraft, business aviation and occasional military visitors. What Airlines Operate Here? Although holiday traffic dominates during the summer, Larnaca enjoys a surprisingly diverse route network throughout the year. Cyprus Airways and TUS Airways operate scheduled services across Europe and the eastern Mediterranean, while major low-cost airlines such as easyJet and Wizz Air maintain extensive networks from the airport. You’ll also find regular services from: Aegean Airlines airBaltic British Airways Edelweiss Jet2.com TUI Airways Lufthansa Group airlines Air Serbia EL AL, Israir and Arkia Emirates Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Middle East Airlines EgyptAir Depending on the season and geopolitical situation, Larnaca has also attracted airlines from Central Asia, the Caucasus and former Soviet republics, giving enthusiasts the chance to photograph aircraft that are rarely seen elsewhere in Europe. The airport is much busier in the summer months. Movements are dominated by Airbus A320-family aircraft and Boeing 737s, but the variety of operators keeps things interesting throughout the day. Is It Worth Visiting? Absolutely. While it cannot compete with Europe’s largest hubs for sheer traffic volume, Larnaca offers something arguably more appealing: variety. The mix of European leisure airlines, Middle Eastern carriers and regional operators makes almost every hour different, while the famous beach approach creates some outstanding photography opportunities. For enthusiasts looking for unusual airlines in excellent weather, Larnaca is one of the Mediterranean’s finest spotting destinations. Best Plane Spotting Locations at Larnaca Taken at Larnaca from Mackenzie Beach. Photo: Martyn Cartledge Mackenzie Beach Situated immediately beneath the approach to runway 22, aircraft pass low overhead just seconds before touchdown, creating spectacular viewing and photography opportunities. The beach is lined with cafés and restaurants, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon watching arrivals while enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine. When runway 04 is in use, departures climb out directly over the beach, although landing traffic naturally provides the most dramatic views. Eastern Apron Viewpoint For enthusiasts interested in cargo and biz jets, another useful viewpoint can be found along the B4 road behind the airport. Driving from the terminal towards Mackenzie Beach, look for a small hill on the right shortly after one of the roundabouts. From here, a good telephoto lens provides views across the remote apron where executive jets, cargo aircraft and occasional military visitors park. As this is close to the airport perimeter, it’s best not to remain here for extended periods if approached by airport security. The Best Hotel for Plane Spotters Distant views of Larnaca Airport from the Flamingo Beach Hotel rooftop. The Flamingo Beach Hotel remains one of the best-known spotting hotels in Europe and continues to operate on Mackenzie Beach, just minutes from the runway threshold. Rooms facing the airport—particularly those on the upper floors—offer excellent views of aircraft on final approach, while the hotel’s rooftop terrace is another superb place to watch the action. Its location means you can simply walk onto the beach whenever runway 22 is active, making it an ideal base for an aviation-focused visit. [ Read our review of the Flamingo Beach Hotel ] Have you been plane spotting at Larnaca? Any tips on the best spots? Leave a comment below! World Airport Spotting Guides For tips on spotting at hundreds of airports around the world, including Larnaca, check out World Airport Spotting Guides. Now in its latest edition, it covers 350+ airports in 50 countries, giving details on airport layouts, airline and aircraft operators, and directions to the best plane spotting locations. It also includes details of spotting hotels and nearby aviation museums. You can order your copy from this link .
A trainee pilot was left on his own to land an aircraft after his pilot instructor , Leandro Andrés Bertazzo , decided to jump out of a moving plane high in the air in the skies of Argentina on Saturday, July 4. This forced the student, known as Rosario, to safely land the aircraft on his own. Bertazzo, who was the age of 42, was later found dead following the incident.
When Airbus and 3M announced a new long-term agreement covering advanced thermal and acoustic insulation for the Airbus A220 on June 23, 2026, the news appeared to be a routine supplier contract. In reality, it reflected a broader strategy that has been developing for years. As the A220 takes on increasingly longer missions, Airbus is investing in technologies that improve the passenger experience in ways that extend well beyond new seats or cabin layouts. The goal is to reinforce one of the aircraft's defining strengths: an exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin.
The African carrier is not allowed to operate in UK or EU airspace using its own aircraft. Air Zimbabwe plans to reinstate flights to the UK after a more than 14-year hiatus through an aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance (ACMI) arrangement with Chapman Freeborn that will see Spanish airline Plus Ultra operate the route on behalf of the African carrier with an Airbus A330. Harare-based Air Zimbabwe remains on the UK Air Safety List and continues to be blacklisted by the European Commission, which means it is not permitted to operate in EU or UK airspace with its own aircraft. For this reason, it has reached a long-term agreement with Chapman Freeborn – a division of Avia Solutions Group – for the service to be operated by Madrid-based charter specialist Plus Ultra. The new Harare-London Gatwick route will operate three times a week from the end of this month. "This is an important milestone for Air Zimbabwe and a significant step in restoring direct connectivity between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom," says Chapman Freeborn's India, Middle East and Africa president, Linas Dovydenas. "Across Africa, we continue to see growing demand for flexible capacity solutions as airlines look to rebuild networks, respond to passenger demand and manage fleet requirements more efficiently." Chapman Freeborn's ACMI director, Daniel Huggins, says long-haul arrangements such as that reached with Air Zimbabwe require "close co-ordination between airlines, operators, aviation authorities and commercial partners". He adds: "In this case, our team supported the project from a capacity and contract-management perspective, helping to bring together the right structure for a strategically important route." Air Zimbabwe primarily operates domestic and regional flights in Africa. It lists on its website a fleet comprising A330-300, ATR 42-500, Boeing 777-200, 767-200, 737 and Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft. The carrier was placed on the European Union Aviation Safety Agency's blacklist in 2017. It had operated Harare-London flights up until the end of 2011, when one of its 767-200s was impounded at Gatwick for an alleged failure by the airline to keep up to date with payments for spare parts.
Australian flag carrier Qantas is a key operator of the Airbus A380, with present fleet data made available by ch-aviation showing that the oneworld founding member currently has ten examples of the superjumbo at its disposal , having historically flown two more. At 16.8 years old on average, however, these double-decker widebody quadjets are beginning to show their age, with several currently grounded.
When Airbus and 3M announced a new long-term agreement covering advanced thermal and acoustic insulation for the Airbus A220 on June 23, 2026, the news appeared to be a routine supplier contract. In reality, it reflected a broader strategy that has been developing for years. As the A220 takes on increasingly longer missions, Airbus is investing in technologies that improve the passenger experience in ways that extend well beyond new seats or cabin layouts. The goal is to reinforce one of the aircraft's defining strengths: an exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin.
The Bombardier Global 8000 is the fastest civil jet since Concorde, combining Mach 0.95 speed, 8,000-nm range, and record-setting performance.
Private jet charter rates range from $2,000 to more than $20,000 per hour, but taxes, fees, discounts, and passenger count determine the true costs.
Manufacturer announced the milestone alongside its 800th city pair speed record, achieved by its new G800.
FREDERICK, Md.—The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Air Safety Institute (ASI) has released a new episode of its popular Accident Case Study video series.
Boeing Plaza, the large aircraft ramp of the EAA AirVenture showgrounds, becomes the center of the aviation universe in less than two weeks when Oshkosh 2026 gets underway. The fly-in convention runs from July 20-26, and the aircraft on display on the central grounds will likely change day by day. According to the Experimental Aircraft Association, the 2026 lineup features an eclectic mix of modern military aircraft, the latest innovations, cultural favorites, and historic aircraft both civilian and military. Decades of aviation will be on display and it's a bit of a thrill to see a modern Boeing B-29 parked a few feet away from a Boeing C-17 and a B-52, or a modern airline a few feet from a DC-3 that your grandparents might have flown in. EAA said the lineup will change through the week as some airplanes are visiting for only one day, while others will remain for several. The theme of the Boeing Plaza display is AirVenture's salute to America's 250th birthday.. READ MORE: NASA's Super Guppy Will Miss AirVenture Due to Storm Damage READ MORE: Wingfoot One Returns to AirVenture "There is no place else in the world where one can see a combination of noteworthy aircraft and people as you can on Boeing Plaza during EAA AirVenture," said Rick Larsen, EAA's vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates the annual event's features and attractions. "Nearly every notable type of airplane of the past 35 years has appeared in that area at some point." Aerial view of Boeing Plaza at EAA AirVenture in 2025 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin [Credit: EAA] Larsen gives a nod to the folks tasked with getting those airplanes in and out of the plaza—AirVenture's dedicated (and skilled) volunteers. You will see them in the safety vests working as a team to maneuver and place those often-rare aircraft. "[These are people] who have probably pulled and tugged more aircraft types than any ramp crew in the world," Larsen said. Aircraft scheduled to be displayed on Boeing Plaza: • U.S. Air Force B-52 • C-5 and C-17 • F-16, F-35, and F-15 • Airliners in special livery designs from Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Aerial view of Boeing Plaza at EAA AirVenture in 2025 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin [Credit: EAA] Boeing Plaza was created in the late 1980s as a taxiway with four aircraft parking "fingers." As the AirVenture show grew in attendance, there was a need for more space, and it was expanded into the full ramp in 1993. Boeing Plaza also provides a popular photo-taking platform, as large group portraits, such as the annual Women In Aviation gathering, are done on the ramp.
Portuguese carrier will initially fly to Valencia as work continues to resume services to capital. TAP Air Portugal will resume flights to Venezuela on 13 July, three weeks after two strong earthquakes struck the country, killing thousands and destroying infrastructure. The Portuguese carrier says it will initially operate to Arturo Michelena International airport in Valencia instead of Caracas's Simon Bolivar airport, which sustained damage during the earthquakes. "At this stage, flights will operate to Arturo Michelena International airport in Valencia, allowing for the gradual re-establishment of air links between Portugal and Venezuela while the necessary work is under way to resume regular operations," says TAP. The Lisbon-based carrier will operate the route as a one-stop service with a technical stop in Pointe-a-Pitre in Guadeloupe. It says no aircraft or crew will remain in Venezuela. The first flight on 13 July will transport 8.7t of medical supplies to assist with humanitarian aid missions. "The company continues to monitor the evolving situation and is committed to resuming its regular operations to Venezuela as quickly as possible and under conditions of complete safety," adds TAP. Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez said in a 7 July Telegram post that after assessing the damage to one of the runways at the Caracas airport, she had initiated a plan aimed at temporarily allowing commercial flights to use a parallel runway.
By Bernie Wunder, EAA 128167/AMA 984592 EAA developed a program called Young Eagles Build and Fly (YE B&F) to keep youths involved in aviation after a Young Eagles flight. The idea was that the EAA chapter would team up with the local Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) club to build and then actually fly a […]
Many pilots who rent or borrow aircraft assume that the FBO, flight school, or aircraft owner's insurance will protect them if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
Many pilots who rent or borrow aircraft assume that the FBO, flight school, or aircraft owner's insurance will protect them if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
The US Department of War announced on July 9, 2026, that two Joint Laser Weapon System (JLWS) agreements had been awarded to nLIGHT Defense and Lockheed Martin Aculight, aimed at turning high-energy laser prototypes into field-ready systems against drones and cruise missiles. The Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreements carry an initial value of $86 million and a total program ceiling of $847 million. They were executed by the Scaled Directed Energy (SCADE) Critical Technology Area, which operates under the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering. According to the department, the program seeks to transition directed energy capabilities from demonstration prototypes into production-oriented platforms. This is intended to give combatant commanders scalable intercept options against both asymmetric and high-tier threats. Scaling from 150 kW to cruise missile defense Initial JLWS prototypes will be rated at approximately 150 kW, a power level suited to countering unmanned aerial systems. Subsequent iterations will be scaled to the 300-500 kW range considered necessary for robust cruise missile defense. A 500 kW integrated system, built around a laser source developed under the High Energy Laser Scaling Initiative (HELSI), will also be developed in parallel. The systems will use containerized form factors designed for modular integration on both ground and naval platforms, allowing rapid fielding across geographic combatant commands. "We must actively defend the homeland against emerging threats," said Emil Michael, Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering, adding that the department was partnering with industry to deliver deep magazine directed energy capabilities across multiple domains. Rebalancing the cost of air defense These awards come amid a wider push to rebalance the cost equation of air defense, after the wars in Ukraine and Iran saw interceptors worth millions of dollars expended against drones costing a few thousand each . Lasers promise speed-of-light engagement, deep magazines and a cost-per-shot measured in dollars of electricity, attributes seen as essential against high-volume drone swarms , though weather and beam stability remain limiting factors. The announcement follows a series of directed energy milestones in the United States, including the first Golden Dome test, which reportedly used directed energy to defeat drones and cruise missiles . The Pentagon is also deliberating over deploying laser-based counter-drone systems at sensitive US locations after repeated incursions near military installations. The push is not limited to the United States. On the same day, July 9, 2026, Germany's procurement agency BAAINBw signed a contract with MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall to develop a containerized high-energy laser weapon system for the German Navy, building on a demonstrator tested aboard the frigate Sachsen. The contract targets an operational system by 2029.
For many aviation enthusiasts, Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is one of the Mediterranean’s hidden gems. Combining year-round sunshine with an interesting mix of European, Middle Eastern and regional airlines, it offers far more variety than its modest size might suggest. Perhaps best of all, aircraft approach directly over Mackenzie Beach, creating one of Europe’s classic plane spotting locations. Add in a hotel overlooking the approach path, and it’s easy to see why Larnaca has become a favourite destination for spotters looking to combine a holiday with some aviation photography. About Larnaca Airport Larnaca is Cyprus’ busiest airport and the island’s principal international gateway. The airport took on this role following the division of Cyprus in 1974, when Nicosia International Airport ceased commercial operations after the Turkish invasion. Since then, Larnaca has developed into one of the eastern Mediterranean’s busiest airports, handling millions of passengers each year on scheduled, charter and low-cost flights. Today it serves as the main base for Cyprus Airways and TUS Airways, while welcoming airlines from across Europe, the Middle East and beyond. The airport has a single runway (04/22), with a modern passenger terminal occupying the south-western side of the airfield. At the opposite end is a remote apron used by cargo aircraft, business aviation and occasional military visitors. What Airlines Operate Here? Although holiday traffic dominates during the summer, Larnaca enjoys a surprisingly diverse route network throughout the year. Cyprus Airways and TUS Airways operate scheduled services across Europe and the eastern Mediterranean, while major low-cost airlines such as easyJet and Wizz Air maintain extensive networks from the airport. You’ll also find regular services from: Aegean Airlines airBaltic British Airways Edelweiss Jet2.com TUI Airways Lufthansa Group airlines Air Serbia EL AL, Israir and Arkia Emirates Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Middle East Airlines EgyptAir Depending on the season and geopolitical situation, Larnaca has also attracted airlines from Central Asia, the Caucasus and former Soviet republics, giving enthusiasts the chance to photograph aircraft that are rarely seen elsewhere in Europe. The airport is much busier in the summer months. Movements are dominated by Airbus A320-family aircraft and Boeing 737s, but the variety of operators keeps things interesting throughout the day. Is It Worth Visiting? Absolutely. While it cannot compete with Europe’s largest hubs for sheer traffic volume, Larnaca offers something arguably more appealing: variety. The mix of European leisure airlines, Middle Eastern carriers and regional operators makes almost every hour different, while the famous beach approach creates some outstanding photography opportunities. For enthusiasts looking for unusual airlines in excellent weather, Larnaca is one of the Mediterranean’s finest spotting destinations. Best Plane Spotting Locations at Larnaca Taken at Larnaca from Mackenzie Beach. Photo: Martyn Cartledge Mackenzie Beach Situated immediately beneath the approach to runway 22, aircraft pass low overhead just seconds before touchdown, creating spectacular viewing and photography opportunities. The beach is lined with cafés and restaurants, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon watching arrivals while enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine. When runway 04 is in use, departures climb out directly over the beach, although landing traffic naturally provides the most dramatic views. Eastern Apron Viewpoint For enthusiasts interested in cargo and biz jets, another useful viewpoint can be found along the B4 road behind the airport. Driving from the terminal towards Mackenzie Beach, look for a small hill on the right shortly after one of the roundabouts. From here, a good telephoto lens provides views across the remote apron where executive jets, cargo aircraft and occasional military visitors park. As this is close to the airport perimeter, it’s best not to remain here for extended periods if approached by airport security. The Best Hotel for Plane Spotters Distant views of Larnaca Airport from the Flamingo Beach Hotel rooftop. The Flamingo Beach Hotel remains one of the best-known spotting hotels in Europe and continues to operate on Mackenzie Beach, just minutes from the runway threshold. Rooms facing the airport—particularly those on the upper floors—offer excellent views of aircraft on final approach, while the hotel’s rooftop terrace is another superb place to watch the action. Its location means you can simply walk onto the beach whenever runway 22 is active, making it an ideal base for an aviation-focused visit. [ Read our review of the Flamingo Beach Hotel ] Have you been plane spotting at Larnaca? Any tips on the best spots? Leave a comment below! World Airport Spotting Guides For tips on spotting at hundreds of airports around the world, including Larnaca, check out World Airport Spotting Guides. Now in its latest edition, it covers 350+ airports in 50 countries, giving details on airport layouts, airline and aircraft operators, and directions to the best plane spotting locations. It also includes details of spotting hotels and nearby aviation museums. You can order your copy from this link .
Canada's first new-build CC-330 Husky tanker has completed its maiden flight from Airbus' facility in Getafe, Spain, marking a new milestone in the Royal Canadian Air Force's program to replace its aging CC-150 Polaris fleet. The aircraft flew on July 2, 2026, according to Airbus. It is expected to be delivered to Canada in 2027 after conversion and flight testing. The CC-330 Husky is Canada's designation for the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport, a military tanker and transport aircraft based on the A330-200 airliner. The new-build aircraft is part of Canada's Strategic Tanker Transport Capability project, which will give the RCAF a fleet of nine CC-330 Huskies. The fleet will include four new Airbus A330 MRTTs and five used A330-200 aircraft converted to MRTT configuration. Canada has already received transport-configured CC-330 aircraft, but the latest flight marks the first flight of a new-build aircraft being prepared for the full tanker role. The Government of Canada says the CC-330 fleet will replace the CC-150 Polaris and support air-to-air refueling, military passenger and cargo airlift, medical evacuations and strategic transport for Government of Canada officials. The new fleet will give Canada additional tanker and long-range transport capacity for Canadian, NORAD, NATO and coalition missions. The first full MRTT-capable CC-330 delivery remains scheduled for 2027, according to the Government of Canada. Initial operational capability is planned for 2028-2029, with final operational capability expected in 2032-2033. The CC-330 program has moved through several milestones since Canada selected the A330 MRTT to replace the Polaris. Canada's first used A330-200 arrived in the country in August 2023 for acceptance work and use by the RCAF in the strategic airlift role. The first CC-330 entered service with the RCAF in November 2023, followed by a second aircraft in February 2024. Canada accepted its fifth and final used CC-330 in February 2025. In June 2025, Canada's first new CC-330, known as Husky 006, was flown from Airbus' facility in Toulouse, France, to Getafe, where it began conversion work to the multi-role tanker transport configuration. The Government of Canada awarded the main CC-330 acquisition contract to Airbus Defence and Space in June 2023. The Government of Canada awarded Airbus Defence and Space a CAD 3.6 billion contract in June 2023 for nine CC-330 aircraft, associated equipment, integrated logistics support elements, training simulators and sustainment. Canada also awarded three long-term in-service support contracts for the CC-330 fleet in 2026. Two contracts went to L3Harris MAS for maintenance and materiel support, while a third went to Airbus Defence and Space for original manufacturer support services. The Government of Canada lists the CC-330 as a twin-engine, long-range multi-role tanker transport aircraft with seating for more than 250 passengers and a range of 13,900 km with a 10-ton payload. The RCAF plans to operate the CC-330 fleet from main operating bases in eastern and western Canada. CFB Trenton will serve as the eastern main operating base, while Canada has been negotiating with Edmonton International Airport for a western main operating base.
