Preparations underway at former hypersonic facility where supersonic engine testing will begin by the end of 2025

DENVER, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Boom Supersonic, the company building the world’s fastest airliner, Overture, today announced that it has selected a site at the Colorado Air and Space Port in Watkins, CO to conduct engine tests for its Symphony propulsion system. The site was previously used for hypersonic engine development. Symphony, the bespoke engine for Overture, is a medium bypass turbofan optimized for supersonic flight. Boom is investing $3-5 million into the site this year to prepare it for supersonic engine testing, slated to start later this year.

“Symphony is rapidly advancing from concept to reality. By leveraging an existing site, Boom will have the first independently-owned supersonic engine test facility for less than it would have cost to rent a government facility,” said Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic. “By vertically integrating propulsion, we are able to accelerate development, reduce costs, and custom-tailor an engine for Overture—unlocking capabilities like Boomless Cruise.”

The Symphony engine test facility, located in Adams County only 35 miles from Boom’s headquarters, will support this year’s test of Symphony’s prototype core. Measuring 12 feet long and 4 feet in diameter, the core is the high pressure spool of the engine, consisting of the compressor, combustor, and turbine—the most critical components of the first independently-developed supersonic jet engine.

“This is an exciting moment not just for Adams County, but for the future of aerospace innovation in Colorado,” said Lynn Baca, Chair of the Adams County Board of Commissioners. “Boom’s investment in our community puts us at the forefront of the aerospace industry and reflects our shared commitment to advancing next-generation transportation technologies.”

The facility at the Colorado Air and Space Port includes a control room and advanced instrumentation. Data collected from Symphony core tests will allow Boom to refine engineering and manufacturing design for Symphony. Boom expects to expand the site in 2026 to facilitate full-scale testing of the entire Symphony turbofan prototype.

“We are very excited to welcome Boom Supersonic to the Colorado Air and Space Port and to support the development of its revolutionary Symphony engine,” said Jeff Kloska, Director of the Colorado Air and Space Port (CASP). “We look forward to a great partnership with Boom and to advancing our aviation and aerospace ecosystem at CASP.”

The Symphony engine continues to progress rapidly. In March, Symphony passed a key technical review—enabling the manufacturing launch. Multiple parts have already entered the manufacturing phase and engine assembly will start later this year. When the Symphony program moves into production, Boom will leverage the skilled team and facility at StandardAero in San Antonio, TX to build Symphony engines at rate.

Purpose-building and vertically integrating Symphony enables Boom to unlock additional capabilities for Overture, including flying at supersonic speeds without an audible sonic boom on the ground with Boomless Cruise. Symphony features enhanced transonic performance compared to commercially-derived engines, allowing Overture to efficiently accelerate to supersonic speeds at altitudes above 30,000 feet—where Boomless Cruise is possible.

In February, Boom’s XB-1 demonstrator broke the sound barrier six times without creating a sonic boom that was heard on the ground, opening the door to supersonic flight over land onboard Overture with Boomless Cruise. Overture has 130 orders and pre-orders from United Airlines, American Airlines, and Japan Airlines, representing the first five years of production at its Overture Superfactory in Greensboro, North Carolina.

DANIA BEACH, Fla., April 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Spirit Aviation Holdings, Inc., parent company of Spirit Airlines, LLC, (together, “Spirit”) today announced that its common stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE American stock exchange. Trading is expected to begin on April 29, 2025, at market open under the symbol FLYY.

“Listing our common stock on the NYSE American is an important next step in Spirit’s continued transformation as we remain focused on returning to profitability and positioning our airline for long-term success,” said Dave Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer.

Collaboration includes a path for United to purchase up to 200 airplanes¹

JetZero’s Z4 blended wing body or “all wing” design has the potential to enhance passenger experience and improve fuel efficiency by up to 50%² 

JetZero was awarded a $235 million contract by the U.S. Air Force to fast-track the development of its commercial demonstrator with first flight expected in 2027

CHICAGO, April 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — United today announced an investment in blended wing body (BWB) aircraft start-up JetZero. The company is creating an aircraft design that has the potential to deliver jet fuel efficiency and a greatly enhanced customer experience. The investment includes a path to order up to 100 airplanes and an option for an additional 100. The conditional purchase agreement is based on JetZero achieving development milestones, including flight of a full-scale demonstrator in 2027, among other conditions, including that the aircraft meet United’s safety, business and operating requirements. 

JetZero’s innovative design reduces drag and produces lift across the entire wingspan, which could lead to as much as 50% reduction in fuel burn per passenger mile compared to a similar sized aircraft. The technology could potentially help United lower its carbon emissions while reducing the cost of operations. In 2023, the U.S. Air Force announced a $235 million contract to JetZero to fast-track the development of JetZero’s full scale demonstrator. The JetZero Z4 airplane is designed to accommodate 250 passengers and fly on conventional jet fuel, with propulsion systems able to utilize sustainable aviation fuel blends.

“If successful, JetZero has the potential to evolve our core mainline business by developing aircraft with a bigger, more comfortable cabin experience for our customers while increasing fuel efficiency across our network,” said Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures (UAV). “United Airlines Ventures® was created to support our efforts to find innovative companies that can enhance the customer travel experience and help the airline lower its carbon footprint, and we believe JetZero reflects that philosophy.”  

“United’s investment in our company signals the industry’s belief that new, innovative technology is needed in order to achieve the efficiency and cost savings that will be required to meet the continued growth in demand for air travel across the globe,” said Tom O’Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero. “JetZero is focused on one key technology – the airframe – that enables us to address all of the barriers to growth. This program is the only one in development today that promises efficiency and an elevated customer experience.”

Both the airplane’s shape, and the way JetZero plans to enter the plane into service, address industry pain points. The design contributes to a more efficient operation due to its shape and the higher altitude at which it will fly. For instance, a flight from New York/Newark to Palma de Mallorca, Spain would use up to 45 percent less fuel compared to the twin-aisle aircraft that operate that route today. The airplane also is expected to integrate readily into today’s airport infrastructure, requiring no new accommodations for jet bridges, runways or taxiways. 

The aircraft design has the potential to also offer improvements to the passenger experience like flexible seating options, larger seats across all classes and dedicated overhead bin space for each seat. Additionally, the design streamlines the boarding process with a main boarding door that is wider than that of a comparably sized aircraft, leading to multiple aisles and passenger cabin bays for more efficient passenger distribution. It may further enhance accessibility by featuring wider aisles and handicap-accessible lavatories, creating a comfortable travel environment for all passengers and in-flight crew.

JetZero’s agreement with the Air Force focuses on advancing airframe technology and capabilities, showcasing its potential, and providing the Department of Defense and commercial industry more options to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Several military aircraft configurations can be made with this design, including air transport and refueling tanker variants, which collectively account for approximately 60% of the Air Force’s total annual jet fuel consumption.  

United’s corporate venture capital fund, United Airlines Ventures, enables the airline to invest in emerging companies that have the potential to influence the future of travel. UAV has made investments in start-ups developing innovative technologies that have the potential to revolutionize aerospace developments, create value for customers and United’s operation and complement United’s goal of net zero emissions by 2050. UAV has made a number of alternative aircraft investments including:

• Hybrid–electric 
• Hydrogen–powered 
• Electric Air Taxis (eVTOLs) 

MONTREAL, April 22, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Canada President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Rousseau today announced the realignment of certain senior executive management responsibilities at the airline. The changes are designed to capitalize on cross functional capabilities within the senior executive team and will be effective May 1, 2025.

“Air Canada is now well underway with its New Frontiers strategy and in support of our growth program, which will accelerate as new aircraft begin arriving late in 2025, we are realigning certain senior executive functions. These changes will reinforce our management structure by promoting cross-functional capabilities among our senior executives, adding to the resiliency of our already very strong senior leadership team,” said Mr. Rousseau.

The changes, effective May 1, 2025:

• Craig Landry, previously Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, has been appointed Executive Vice President & Chief Innovation Officer and President of Aeroplan. In his new role, Mr. Landry will oversee the corporation’s technology functions, spearheading innovation to improve customer experience, with responsibility for digital, data, cyber security, and artificial intelligence functions. As President of Aeroplan, he will continue to drive Aeroplan’s vision as Canada’s leading travel loyalty program.
• Mark Nasr, previously Executive Vice President, Marketing & Digital and President, Aeroplan, has been appointed Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer. In his new role, Mr. Nasr will assume responsibility to optimize all aspects of a safe, reliable and efficient operation, while elevating the customer experience throughout Air Canada’s worldwide network. His responsibilities include Flight Operations, Maintenance and Engineering, Airports, In-Flight Service, Contact Centres, International Operations, Regional Express Carriers, and Onboard Cabins and Systems groups.
• Mark Galardo, previously Executive Vice President, Revenue & Network Planning and President, Cargo, has been appointed Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer and President, Cargo. In addition to his current role, Mr. Galardo will also be responsible for Marketing, leading the design and development of the Air Canada brand.

JetBlue continues to offer versatility and value to its TrueBlue^® members through expanded redemption partners

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (Nasdaq: JBLU) today announced the expansion of its partnership with Japan Airlines to include TrueBlue point redemptions. TrueBlue members can now use their points to book qualifying Japan Airlines-operated flights directly on jetblue.com. This milestone marks the first time JetBlue’s TrueBlue members can redeem points for travel with an airline partner in East Asia.

“We’re excited to expand the TrueBlue experience by growing our network of trusted airline partners, giving our members even more ways to redeem points,” said Edward Pouthier, vice president of loyalty and personalization, JetBlue. “With Japan Airlines redemption options, we’re opening the door to more destinations for our customers to travel where they want, how they want.”

This new redemption opportunity enhances JetBlue’s commitment to delivering more value and flexibility to its customers. With access to Japan Airlines’ renowned service and premium cabins, TrueBlue members can now explore a range of destinations across Japan and East Asia—including Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa, and Hokkaido—using their points. Whether traveling for a vacation or to visit family and friends, members have more rewarding ways to experience international travel with comfort and ease.

“We’re delighted to announce our newest mileage partnership with JetBlue, a leading carrier based in New York,” said Yasushi Omori, executive officer, senior vice president of mileage and lifestyle business, Japan Airlines. “This partnership will enable JAL to enhance its network beyond New York and Boston, where direct flights from Japan are available.”

The partnership will also allow JAL Mileage Bank members to redeem their miles for select flights across JetBlue’s network, including those to Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and cities along the U.S. East Coast.

For more information on this partnership visit jetblue.com/airline-partners/japan-airlines

NEW YORK — American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are streamlining the connecting traveler’s journey at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as Alaska and Hawaiian officially move their operations to Terminal 8 in 2025.

The strategic move starts today with Hawaiian kicking off operations of its daily flight from JFK to Honolulu (HNL) out of Terminal 8. Both Alaska and Hawaiian expect to fully move their operations to Terminal 8 by October, including moving their gates, ticket counters and other guest services. With the addition of Alaska, Terminal 8 will be home to 10 oneworld^® carriers.

“We are thrilled to welcome our West Coast International Alliance and oneworld^® partner, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines to Terminal 8,” said Amanda Zhang, American’s Vice President of Corporate Real Estate. “We continue to invest in JFK to enhance the travel experience for our customers and those of our partners like Alaska and Hawaiian, especially as we make progress on the redesign and expansion of the T8 concessions program, bringing new shops and restaurant options for customers to enjoy.”

Customers should expect an enhanced travel experience with seamless connections, access to world-class lounges and will soon enjoy the more than 60 new shopping and restaurant offerings coming to the terminal as part of the $125 million commercial redevelopment program underway, which is being led by American, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports.

“The new long-term lease at Terminal 8 and our resulting move strengthen our commitment to enhancing the guest experience, improving employee spaces and driving better economic outcomes for our JFK operation,” said Shane Jones, senior vice president of fleet, revenue products and real estate at Alaska Airlines. “Terminal 8 is home to American Airlines — our long-standing oneworld^® partner — and this move demonstrates our shared commitment to delivering seamless connectivity for our guests. After two years of thoughtful evaluation, we’re excited to be closer to American and other global partners to better serve guests.”

In addition to easier connections, both Alaska and Hawaiian First Class customers traveling out of JFK on flights longer than 2,000 miles will now enjoy access to the American Airlines Admirals Club lounge. And customers on flights that are more than 2,000 miles who are traveling in a premium cabin that includes a lie-flat product will have access to American’s premium Greenwich Lounge, which features elevated dining, a wine table and luxurious atmosphere.

Living Green members supported environmental conservation efforts by clearing trails and marking delineations at Joshua Tree National Park earlier this year.

American Airlines is proud to renew its partnership with the National Park Foundation (NPF), reinforcing its dedication to preserving America’s national parks and encouraging exploration of the country’s iconic natural wonders, historic sites and cultural treasures.

As NPF’s first official airline partner, American helps connect travelers with the beauty and history of America’s parks.

American’s Living Green Employee Business Resource Group (EBRG), formed in 2012, is another key part of the airline’s sustainability efforts. With nearly 1,900 team members across 10 global chapters, Living Green focuses on reducing environmental impact and supporting conservation initiatives at American.

In recent years, members have volunteered at Mount Rainier, Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Teton and Joshua Tree National Parks, along with participating in events like the Annual Pullman National Monument Clean-Up and launching recycle and reuse events across our stations.

In celebration of Earth Month, American invites AAdvantage^® members to donate miles to Miles for Our Planet, with all donations directed to the National Park Foundation throughout April. This initiative supports the preservation of national parks and inspires future generations to connect with these iconic landscapes.

American Airlines offers more than 500 flights to national parks across the U.S., from Joshua Tree to the Grand Canyon to Glacier National Park. Ready to explore? Check out our Flights to National Parks for more information.

Investment, led by Prysm Capital, moves the category creator’s flagship EL9 Ultra Short into pre-production and certification, opens the door to Direct Aviation, and supports growing demand from commercial and defense markets

MANASSAS, Va., April 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) today announced it has secured $115 million in Series B funding to enter the pre-production and certification phase of the EL9, the first-ever Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in 150 feet – roughly 10% of the footprint required for similarly-sized legacy airplanes.

The round was led by Prysm Capital, and Jay Park, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Prysm, has joined Electra’s Board of Directors. 

Electra has over 2,200 pre-orders for the EL9 Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in 150 feet.Post this

“We are delighted to welcome Jay and Prysm to the Electra family,” said Electra Board Chair John Langford. “They’ve already become an indispensable partner and advisor as we transition from prototype to product with the EL9.”

By integrating blown lift technology with hybrid-electric propulsion, Electra’s 9-passenger EL9 Ultra Short offers a range of transformative dual-use capabilities. It operates with the landing and takeoff versatility of a helicopter, the quiet of an electric vehicle, and the cost advantage and safety of a fixed-wing, fixed-propeller aircraft. With the EL9, commercial operators can connect communities that lack traditional aviation infrastructure, fly into airports with strict noise restrictions, create new opportunities and business models for cargo services, and save travelers significant time.

For defense operators, the EL9 introduces novel logistics and troop transport capabilities, including the ability to take off and land with a low signature in helicopter-sized spaces in remote, austere areas and providing mobile power capabilities while building on the safety, cost, and range advantages of a fixed-wing aircraft.

Electra has secured more than 2,200 pre-orders valued at over $10 billion for the EL9 – marking one of the largest provisional order pipelines in the commercial Advanced Air Mobility sector. Additionally, Electra has won over 20 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and NASA, and is currently performing on a Strategic Funding Increase contract with the U.S. Air Force to develop the EL9 for military use cases.

“At Electra, we are on a mission to deliver a new era of aviation, a leap forward in advanced air mobility that is both transformational and practical,” said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. “The EL9 Ultra Short opens the door to opportunities to establish new commercial routes, connect communities currently lacking aviation infrastructure, and enable entirely novel logistics capabilities for warfighters. We look forward to working with our partners at Prysm to continue the development of this aircraft and chart a new course for aviation.”

The EL9 delivers up to 3,000 pounds of payload and a range of up to 1,100 nautical miles, with in-flight battery recharging that eliminates the need for ground charging stations. The ability to operate from compact spaces and unimproved surfaces such as grass fields, parking lots, and repurposed heliports opens new routes and economic opportunities, making regional air mobility for passengers and cargo more affordable and accessible than ever before.

“Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short is a game-changing aircraft that unlocks important new capabilities for commercial and defense users,” said Jay Park. “The EL9 is the flagship of Electra’s future family of aircraft that will transform aviation with hybrid-electric technology. We are excited to partner with Marc, John and the team in their commitment to innovating and expanding air mobility solutions.”

Lockheed Martin Ventures, Honeywell, and Safran are among Electra’s strategic investors along with Prysm Capital, Statkraft Ventures, the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC), and other private investors. 

Electra has grown to roughly 80 employees and established its position as the first mover and category creator in Ultra Short aviation.

About Electra
Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) is an advanced aerospace company building hybrid-electric Ultra Short aircraft that achieve never-before performance advantages to fly people and cargo seamlessly without airports, emissions, or noise. With the Ultra Short, Electra is pioneering Direct Aviation, the next level of connectivity that brings air travel closer to where we live, work, and play. Electra’s Ultra Short technology delivers 2.5X the payload and 10X longer range with 70% lower operating costs than helicopters and eVTOLs with significantly greater safety and far less certification risk.

Electra’s team includes some of the most respected and successful entrepreneurs and engineers in novel aircraft design, with over 40 prior aircraft successfully developed and/or certified. Electra’s contracted customers include NASA, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy, along with over 2,200 aircraft under Letters of Intent from 50+ commercial customers, including both airlines and helicopter operators.

Royal Air Maroc Cargo, the cargo division of Morocco’s flagship carrier, has unveiled an ambitious vision for the future, underscoring a bold strategy built on global expansion, digital innovation, sustainability, and deep community engagement. At the heart of this transformation is the airline’s fleet modernization, driven by the introduction of the new generation widebody aircrafts that embody the airline’s commitment to safety, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

This year, Royal Air Maroc Cargo is focused on extending its footprint across Africa while targeting emerging opportunities in Asia and the Americas. With a global network of 82 destinations—including key hubs in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Europe, and the Middle East—the airline is uniquely positioned to connect high-growth markets with efficiency and agility.

The PAX widebody fleet play a pivotal role in this strategy, offering a larger network and increased range, fuel efficiency, and cargo capacity. These next-generation aircraft not only enhance Royal Air Maroc’s long-haul capabilities but also align with the airline’s vision for a lower-carbon, sustainable future. Alongside 30 narrowbodies and a dedicated B767 freighter, the widebody fleet strengthens the carrier’s ability to move both bulk and palletized cargo with exceptional flexibility.

“Our vision is to expand Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s global network, connect emerging and established markets, and strengthen Morocco’s position as a trade and logistics hub,” said Yassine Berrada, Vice-President Cargo at Royal Air Maroc. “With the introduction of the new generation widebodies, we are not only increasing our operational capacity but also reducing our environmental impact—helping us build a future that is innovative, responsible, and customer-focused.”

Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s Casablanca hub remains a central pillar in this vision, serving as a strategic transit point between continents. The hub is equipped with a state-of-the-art cargo terminal offering 200,000 tons of annual capacity and specialized areas for sensitive shipments, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value goods.

The airline continues to elevate its customer service through partnerships with digital platforms like cargo.one and Cargo.AI, ensuring 24/7 access to booking, scheduling, and real-time availability. Future enhancements include real-time tracking, automated documentation, and seamless digital communications, offering clients a transparent and streamlined experience from start to finish.

Sustainability is embedded in every facet of Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s operations. In addition to operating a fuel-efficient fleet, the airline supports IATA’s Eco Hub initiatives, has implemented solar photovoltaic systems at its facilities, and adopted biodegradable wrapping to minimize waste. The airline also plays a critical humanitarian role, delivering medical supplies and vaccines across the continent in partnership with AIRLINK and other global first aid organizations.

Looking ahead, Royal Air Maroc Cargo is charting a course defined by growth, innovation, and global connectivity. With its advanced fleet, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, growth, and service excellence, the company is poised to lead the next chapter in African and global cargo logistics.

Scandinavian Airlines is unveiling Flavors by SAS, a new Food & Beverage concept designed to offer passengers a more varied, globally inspired culinary offering. Launching October 1, 2025, Flavors by SAS will debut alongside the new European Business Class and later expand to lounges and intercontinental flights. 

Building on the foundation of the New Nordic by SAS concept launched in 2017, Flavors by SAS represents the next step in the evolution of onboard dining. While New Nordic highlighted Scandinavian specialties with a modern twist, Flavors by SAS brings a broader, more global perspective—delivering greater variety, enhanced presentation, and international culinary influences tailored to today’s SAS travelers. 

The current Food and Beverage concept has served passengers for eight years, and as customer preferences evolve, so must SAS’ in-flight dining.  

“While SAS has always been about bringing Scandinavia to the world, this new concept, Flavors by SAS, brings the world to Scandinavia, incorporating bold and diverse flavors inspired by Europe, the U.S., Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean,” says Aron Backström, Vice President Product & Loyalty at SAS. 

SAS is also introducing a new, more flexible dining approach to improve meal variety and adapt service to each flight. The new approach makes it easy to adjust meals based on flight time, service needs, and available space onboard creating a smoother and a more premium dining experience. 

Aron Backström continues, “SAS’ innovative dining approach and rotating menu system sets a new standard in inflight dining, providing a flexible, customer-centric alternative to traditional static menus. This dynamic model positions SAS at the forefront in innovation and adaptability within airline food and beverage service.” 

Key features of the Flavors by SAS-concept: 

• New menus – More globally inspired culinary offerings. 
• Tiered meal service – Various service levels ensure that meal offerings align with flight length and conditions, from a simpler basket service to full tray meals with hot and cold dishes. 
• Flexible dining approach – This allows SAS to mix and match meal components to create unique tray combinations, ensuring variety and freshness.   
• Rolling menu rotations – Meals change frequently, ensuring frequent travelers get to experience new options. 
• Elevated presentation in Business Class – SAS replaces single-use-items with porcelain, a unique double-walled porcelain mug, glass and stainless-steel utensils to elevate the onboard dining experience. 

With the new food offering, SAS is reducing food waste, prioritizing local sourcing whenever possible, and minimizing plastic packaging by increasing the use of compostable and recyclable materials. A key example is the introduction of porcelain tableware—offering a durable, reusable alternative to single-use items.