Australian Aviation Podcast Network: Recent Episodes
Momentum Media
The official podcast of Australian Aviation – where we unpack all the latest insights and developments plus the big issues impacting Australia’s aviation sector.
As Australian helicopters head north to help with wildfires in Europe, a deadly crash in Greece – and new regulations following a crash in WA two years ago – have once again put the spotlight on how dangerous it can be to fight fires from the air.
While national standard operating procedures are cutting down on confusion, and unmanned drones are taking surveillance crews off the front lines, it's clear that there will always be some danger for those who fly out to battle the increasingly common mega-blazes around the world.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David look at the risks borne by aerial firefighters, and ask what more can be done to keep our flying firies safe.
Plus, Australia's airports celebrate a rip-roaring financial year, with passenger traffic breaking records at gateways both large and small.
We don't talk about it too often on the podcast, but cargo is a huge sector of the aviation industry – and with big news out of both Western Sydney and Avalon Airports this week, it found itself unexpectedly in the spotlight.
WSI has at last opened its doors to freight ahead of its passenger launch in October, while Avalon Airport is seeing its first direct cargo services to Saudi Arabia –good news for both the Western Sydney and Geelong areas.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David unpack the crate expectations being placed on Australia's secondary airports as freight operations ramp up.
Plus, Project Sunrise arrives in Australia (sort of); a look at the inside of Jetstar's new 787-8 cabins (and also Osaka and Kyoto); and why haven't illegally sacked Qantas ground workers seen all their compensation money yet?
Qantas has frequently found itself in the news for all the wrong reasons over the past few years – but it got a much-needed win when the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) found last year's data breach wasn't caused by the Flying Kangaroo's own negligence.
With high marks for its swift response to the fiasco, and no need determined for any further investigation, Qantas can take the OAIC's findings as a sign that the fallout of the cyberattack is mostly behind it – but can it recover from the PR hit it suffered?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David unpack the official verdict on the Qantas data breach, and ask if the national carrier really deserves all the flak it gets.
Plus, half a year on from the Air T-Rex deal, when will we actually see more Saabs back in the air?
As the aviation industry grapples with ongoing talent shortages, the question becomes: are current training methods the right model for creating skilled pilots at the rate the sector needs?
Cockpits are becoming increasingly automated, while next-generation training technologies such as VR, XR, AR, and advanced simulation are potentially able to boost safety without increasing risk exposure – so are current competency-based models keeping up with the new reality?
In this special Australian Aviation Podcast, UNSW and the Honourable Company of Air Pilots present a thought-provoking panel discussion on the evolution of pilot training and how industry, regulators, and academia can collaborate to deliver the best possible outcomes.
Join moderator Captain Adrian Young, as well as Churchill Fellow and former CASA Aviation Safety Advisory Panel member Adrianne Fleming, Qantas Group's Andrew Stead, and UNSW's Malcolm Good to discuss how pilot training can best meet the new realities of flying.
If you've ever found yourself scrambling for a pen on the plane to fill out one of those pesky paper cards before you reach Customs, fear not – after a two-year trial and much lobbying by the tourism industry, there will soon be a digital alternative to the Incoming Passenger Card (IPC).
Rolling out over the next 12 to 18 months, the Australia Travel Declaration will make the bane of every groggy passenger's tray table a thing of the past, streamlining the border process and bringing Australia in line with other countries in the region and around the world.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and special guest host Hannah Dowling discuss the end of the paper IPC era, and what it will mean for passengers, airports, and government agencies.
Plus, another big milestone for WSI with the arrival of its first freighter just two weeks from the official launch of commercial cargo flights.
When it rains, it pours – after the collapses of Bonza and Rex left Australia once more in thrall to the domestic airline duopoly, now no fewer than three new contenders, including Koala, Zinc, and another new kid on the block, seem to be planning to step up and take on the big boys.
The latest player? Vietnamese low-cost carrier Vietjet, which has sparked rumours of a new Australian subsidiary with reports of an AOC application with CASA as well as a pile of slot allocations at Sydney Airport. Is a Vietjet entry really on the cards … and can it exorcise the ghost of Tigerair?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David dissect the rumours of Vietjet's impending tilt at the Australian domestic market, and why it might be the best-placed challenger to hit the skies running and make the major carriers sweat.
Plus, a war of words between Airservices and the air traffic controllers' union over delays in Sydney – who's really to blame?
When we think of safety concerns in aviation, it's easy to become fixated on the mechanical issues – but the human factor is also a major issue, and stress and burnout in such a high-pressure industry can only make it worse.
It's easy to ignore the early warning signs of stress and try to push through, but according to neuroscientist Annett Koenig, that can only compound the issue, leading to neurological issues that can even mirror the symptoms of epilepsy.
As engineering-related incidents continue to improve, the human factor is still lagging behind – so what kind of safety issues can stress cause, and how can they be addressed?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake talks to Koenig about the causes, effects, and solutions to chronic stress in the aviation sector.
For 50 years it's been one of the most popular civil helicopter companies in the world, with more than 15,000 aircraft delivered around the globe – and Robinson is a household name among Australian buyers, too, thanks to their use in agricultural applications like cattle mustering.
The R22 and R44 are now being joined in Australia by the new R88, showcased by Robinson at Rotortech on the Gold Coast in May, and with an unmanned division having recently launched, the company is set to bring even more new products to the Australian market.
On this Australian Aviation Podcast, we talk to Robinson Helicopter Company's president and CEO, David Smith, about the company's plans for Australia, its new and upcoming product lines, and how it's building on its safety and maintenance record.
After much anticipation, Qantas has revealed the first destination for Project Sunrise – and in case there was any doubt, it's London, with flights from Sydney to start next October in the next evolution of the 80-year-old "Kangaroo Route".
With Sydney-New York to follow by Christmas 2027, and Qantas sharing more details of the ultra-long-haul planes' cabin configuration, it seems the non-stop flights are closer than ever, despite all the delays – but how popular will they be, and when will Melbourne see them?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David prepare to step inside the A350-1000ULR and fly halfway around the world as Project Sunrise finally starts to firm up.
Plus, the first speakers are revealed for this year's Australian Aviation Summit, and we congratulate the winners of the 2026 Australian Space Awards.
It's been a long, hard road for Western Sydney International Airport, but after decades of the can being kicked down that road, the wait is finally almost over: Sydney's newest gateway will open its doors to freight next month, and to passengers in October.
With Jetstar given the honours of the inaugural passenger flight, and Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines and QantasLink to follow over coming months, other pieces of the puzzle are also falling into place as road networks open and the new metro lays its final tracks.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David arm doors and cross-check as Western Sydney Airport finally begins taxiing out and prepares for its take-off roll.
Plus, as the Iran conflict (hopefully) nears its end, has the impact of fuel price shocks on airfares been as simple as we'd all thought?
After almost 20 years in service, the end is approaching for Qantas' fleet of Airbus A380 superjumbos, with the Flying Kangaroo slated to retire the aircraft type in the 2030s in favour of smaller and more efficient wide-body twinjets.
As rumours swirl that Qantas is in talks with Boeing and Airbus to buy more 787s or A350s, could these potential orders be the replacement for its A380s – and how soon will the double-decker leviathans of the sky vanish completely?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David compare the options for Qantas' wide-body fleet renewal and ask whether a smaller plane can do the work of the A380.
Plus, a major milestone for Project Sunrise as the first A350-1000ULR takes to the skies for its rigorous testing program.
It's been a big week for drones, with news that Wing has quietly pulled its drone delivery operations from Australia, Vivid Sydney has pulled its drone show after 89 of them not-so-quietly fell in Darling Harbour, and Australian and Ukrainian troops are jointly training in counter-drone tactics.
With a report for Airservices a couple of years ago predicting Australia could see 60 million drone flights per year by 2043, it's clear drones are here to stay in our airspace – the only question is, in what forms?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David ask whether drone delivery will come back to Australia and if drone show technology is truly ready for the big time, and examine how drone warfare is reshaping the modern battlefield.
Plus, airlines push back on the government's aviation consumer legislation – but do their arguments pass the pub test?
If the darkest hour is just before the dawn, it's going to be a long night for anyone looking to fly non-stop from the east coast to London or New York – yet another delay has pushed back the launch of Qantas' 22-hour "Project Sunrise" flights to later in 2027.
With the first of the Flying Kangaroo's specially-fitted A350-1000ULRs now not slated to arrive until April next year due to supply chain issues at Airbus, how much longer will Australians have to wait for the game-changing ultra-long-haul services?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David look into the latest Project Sunrise delays and what's still needed before the flights can get off the ground.
Plus, welcome news for regional airports hit by the Rex collapse, while ASIC wins a surprising mea culpa from the airline's former boss.
t's been two years since the collapse of Bonza and Rex – and while Koala Airlines is yet to launch, another aviation contender could be entering the market before long.
Dubbed Zinc Airlines, the ultra-low-cost-carrier would pursue a business model similar to European airlines Wizz Air and Ryanair, with its founder saying Western Sydney Airport would offer a unique opportunity for new contenders – but is he right?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David look at Zinc's plan to shake up the domestic aviation market, whether it can avoid the fate of failed carriers before it, and how it might take the fight to the big boys.
Plus, the 2026 budget is out – what's in the government's $731.1 million aviation package, and what's got the GA and tourism sectors all riled up?
We've all been delayed at the airport at some point, or know someone who has – but still, to learn that 55 per cent of Aussie travellers in a recent government survey were hit by a flight delay or disruption between August 2024 and 2025 puts the whole issue in sharp relief.
And yet, perhaps more surprising is how few of them have complained – not because of how happy they were with the service, but because they didn't think their complaints would go anywhere. That might be set to change with new government regulations and an independent ombudsman … but is it too little, too late for our trust in the airline industry?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David swap war stories of flight delays and examine just how satisfied Australians are with our airlines and airports.
Plus, amid scandals and stoushes galore, could Western Sydney Airport's metro line end up delayed until 2028?
In the 1970s, a young pilot called Deborah Lawrie did something nobody had thought possible: took on the might of Ansett, at the time one of Australia's two big airlines, all the way to the High Court – and won.
Her goal? To overturn Sir Reginald Ansett's long-standing ban on women in the cockpit and become Australia's first female commercial airline pilot. Her landmark case – and her incredible subsequent career – paved the way for female aviators after her to make their mark on Australian skies.
Now working for Virgin Australia, Deb is the oldest and longest-serving female pilot at any commercial airline in the world, and has just released a new memoir, Touching the Sky, recounting her fight against Ansett and what came next. On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Deb sits down with Jake to discuss how she caught the flying bug at an early age, how she took down the aviation titan that was Sir Reg Ansett, and the highs and lows of more than four decades of flying.
When he was just 12 years old and growing up near Shellharbour Airport, Riley McDonald knew he wanted to fly – so he started spending his free time heading down to the airport and washing people's planes in exchange for lessons.
At age 16 he was flying solo and earning his pilot's licence, and now at 25, he works as a professional skydiving pilot and aircraft maintenance engineer, and has taken out a National Advanced Champion title for aerobatics.
Mentored by none other than Paul Bennet, Riley is now gearing up to fly with the Paul Bennet Airshows team at Wings Over Shellharbour this month, and says airshows and open days are the perfect entry point to bring more young enthusiasts into the industry.
On this Australian Aviation Podcast, Riley tells Jake Nelson how he chased his dream of a career in aviation – and how we can encourage other aspiring pilots and engineers to do the same.
With the Iran conflict driving up fuel prices amid an ongoing cost-of-living crisis, you might expect international travel to plummet and airfares to soar – but it turns out the real picture is a touch more complicated than that.
While airlines have been pruning services and hiking prices, both Qantas and Virgin have launched huge domestic sales to try to woo customers with millions of discounted seats, while Sydney Airport just saw the best quarter for international travel in its history.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David try to make head or tail of the unexpectedly topsy-turvy outcomes of the Middle East crisis on our aviation sector, and examine how the world's airspace is being reshaped – for now or for good.
Plus, Western Sydney Airport's new flight paths are locked and loaded – what can Sydneysiders expect when the first cargo planes arrive in July?
It's well-known that the aviation and aerospace sector has been suffering under a talent shortage for some time now – not to mention the challenge of promoting greater diversity in the workforce.
One potential solution? To encourage more young people to enter the industry – to cultivate a love of aviation from an early age, and help kids realise it could hold their dream job.
Together with the CSIRO's STEM in Schools program, industry bodies like Aviation/Aerospace Australia are doing just that by going into schools and holding talks and workshops on what an aviation career could mean for students' futures.
On this Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake talks to Anntonette Dailey of Aviation/Aerospace Australia about the root causes behind the talent crisis, what the industry is doing about them, and the support it needs to bring young people along for the ride.
The government has rolled out its 2026 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program, and there's plenty to dissect for aviation – an early sunset for Tiger helicopters, the retirement of the C-27J Spartan, and a $7 billion boost to counter-drone defences, just to start with.
While the RAAF alone is slated to get between $34-41 billion over the next 10 years, as the world becomes more unstable and traditional alliances get shakier, is Australia doing enough to bolster its own air defences?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David are joined by aerospace and defence lead Stephen Kuper to discuss what Australia is doing – and could be doing – to safeguard its skies.
Plus, the Iran conflict has driven Australian traffic to the Middle East off a cliff – which hubs are picking up the slack, and what's happening to our domestic capacity?
When plucky start-up airline Bonza collapsed in 2024, everyone was quick to point the finger at its business model as the reason for its failure – yet often overlooked was the role its financiers, 777 Partners, played in its demise by abruptly cutting off funding without warning.
With the Miami-based investment firm now drowning in lawsuits and criminal investigations, Bonza's former chief executive, Tim Jordan, this week came out swinging in an Australian Aviation interview where he pointed the finger squarely in its direction over the carrier's fate.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David dissect the Tim Jordan interview, examine how 777 Partners pulling the plug spelt the end for Bonza, and look at the lessons for Australia's next potential domestic airline.
Plus, as the Qantas-Virgin duopoly continues to squeeze the domestic market, we ask: how much of it is actually the major airlines' fault?
When Bonza burst onto the scene in 2023 with its bright purple tails, its budgie smugglers, and its unique "point-to-point" business strategy, the scrappy start-up airline – and its chief executive Tim Jordan – looked to be sparking a revolution in the domestic market.
Just over a year later, however, the lofty goal of being "here for Allstralia" lay in ruins, with Bonza's financier 777 Partners abruptly pulling funding and letting its aircraft be repossessed, leaving Jordan and the rest of the airline's staff and passengers holding the bag.
It's easy in hindsight to say that the idea was doomed from the start, that there was no market for Bonza's idea of connecting regional centres and holiday destinations without connecting through big hubs, but according to Jordan, that's far from the real story.
In this exclusive interview with the Australian Aviation Podcast, his first since his airline's collapse, Jordan tells Jake Nelson how the Bonza dream turned into a nightmare – and why he still thinks there's room for more domestic airlines in Australia's skies.
As Gulf travel remains dicey and Australian travellers rush to connect through Asia, the usual hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong are being joined by other contenders eager to take a slice of the layover pie – and Malaysia Airlines is jockeying to make Kuala Lumpur one of them.
A stone's throw from Singapore and with a raft of connections into Asia and Europe, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA, to its friends) has the backing of Malaysia's flag carrier, generally lower airfares, and room to grow – but can it take on the might of Changi?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, fresh from a long weekend in Kuala Lumpur at the MATTA travel expo, Jake delivers his trip report on Malaysia Airlines and KLIA's offerings for travellers, and he and David discuss how viable KL could be as an alternative to the bigger hubs.
Plus, what's in the federal government's new consumer protection legislation – and how does it stack up?
We often talk about the duopoly in Australia's airline sector – but if you ever needed proof of its power, you'll find it in the latest eye-popping data from the ACCC, which shows Qantas Group and Virgin between them operated almost 99 per cent of all domestic flights in the back half of 2025.
With Rex's domestic jets and Bonza's point-to-point flights a distant memory, we return to the age-old question: can any new contender hope to carve out a niche for itself in a market dominated by the two warring giants of the skies?
In this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David dissect the ACCC's newest domestic airline competition report and once again ask who – if anyone – could break the duopoly's stranglehold on Australia's airspace.
Plus, the first tickets go on sale at Western Sydney International Airport, and how many regional markets have room for more than one carrier?
Australians' love affair with Bali is nothing new, but it sure does seem we're seeing a lot of new and expanded flights there over the past few months – from Jetstar to AirAsia, Avalon to Newcastle, our biggest overseas holiday destination seems to be enjoying a real moment in the sun.
But as Jetstar begins flights connecting through Bali to Singapore and AirAsia offers a smorgasbord of onward fly-through services, could Denpasar become more than just an endpoint for Australian travellers and evolve into a hub in its own right?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David take a (metaphorical) trip to Bali and examine just why it appears to be so popular lately – and what it can offer for aviation beyond just the Aussie tourism crowd.
Plus, a caveat emptor from the ACCC for anyone who might be planning to fly through the Gulf any time soon, and will Australia finally ditch the notorious yellow incoming passenger card?
It's a safe bet that before a few weeks ago, not a lot of us would have been able to name the Strait of Hormuz, let alone point to it on a map – but now that it's become one of the biggest geopolitical headaches on the planet (and the reason petrol prices are skyrocketing), suddenly that unassuming body of water is a household name.
More pressingly for aviation, of course, is the fact that the conduit for a fifth of the world's oil has been choked off, meaning jet fuel is suddenly harder to come by. Airlines are raising costs and slashing services to compensate, and there are worried noises from some corners about how much exactly we have in reserve – so, how concerned should we be, exactly?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David drill into the Middle East oil crisis, how it's affecting Australian airlines, and whether sustainable aviation fuel might help safeguard against future shocks.
Plus, the first report is out into slot usage at Sydney Airport – so are the big airlines really "gaming the system"?
High airfares are a continual thorn in the side of Australian travellers, and especially those in the regions – which is one reason why Tim Jordan embarked on his ill-fated attempt to be "here for Allstralia" with Bonza, flying point-to-point regional services with a low-cost ethos.
After a couple of years out of the limelight, Jordan has put his head back above the ramparts with a submission to the Productivity Commission pointing the finger squarely at the dominance of the big airlines – particularly Qantas – as a major contributor to the high cost of flying from the regions.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David examine Jordan's arguments and ask once again how Australia can bring more competition to its skies – and bring those soaring ticket prices back to earth.
Plus, updates from the Gulf as limited commercial flights resume and the RAAF sends reconnaissance planes to ward off Iranian strikes.
There is, as a wise journalist (no, not us, we said "wise") has pointed out, always an aviation angle. As Iranian bombs rained down across the Gulf following strikes by the US and Israel, countries like the UAE and Qatar suddenly found themselves uncomfortably less insulated than they thought, with even airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi being damaged in the crossfire.
Unfortunately, these countries also happen to be major global aviation hubs, and thousands of flights over the past few days have been cancelled, leaving passengers stranded – which raises the question: in the wake of the chaos, will cautious flyers start avoiding Europe flights through places like Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi in favour of less volatile hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and guest host Bethany Alvaro examine the Iran conflict's impact on aviation and ask whether Australian airlines and travellers have put too many of their eggs in the Gulf's basket.
Plus, half-yearly results are out for airlines on both sides of the Tasman – which carriers had a better six months than the others?
After decades of will-they-won't-they, the government seems determined to press on with high-speed rail from Sydney to Newcastle (honestly pinky promise for real this time) as the first stage of an ambitious plan to connect the eastern corridor all the way from Melbourne to Brisbane.
If all goes ahead, then, what will that mean for aviation on the east coast? Could Australia finally see more competition on the Golden Triangle from an entirely different source – and will airports reap the benefits nonetheless?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David dig into the government's business case for high-speed rail and discuss whether it will actually happen – and whether it would be friend or foe to the air transport sector.
Plus, Daniel Croft from AI Daily returns to the show to go through some of the latest forays into aviation from our ever-present robot overlords.
Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the airport, the debate over noisy aircraft – excuse us, "sky kittens" – has reared its head once again, with community advocates calling for a curfew in Brisbane.
According to the Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA), curtailing the sky kittens' purring with a nightly curfew would boost residents' well-being and property values at minimal economic cost – but the airport has pushed back, saying it could be disastrous for Queensland residents.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David wade into the continuing stoush around aircraft noise in Brisbane, and discuss how the health and comfort of locals should be balanced with the need for reliable and affordable air transport.
Plus, Qantas wins bronze in the on-time Olympics – and could Addis Ababa be the next Dubai?
With Productivity Commission and Senate inquiries set to spin up later this year, it's been a blockbuster week for regional aviation in the news.
From support for regional cities left in the lurch by the Rex administration, to calls for a "fairer" system for the regions, to rebrands and axed routes, the headlines have been dominated by turboprops and council-owned airports, shining a much-needed spotlight on the country.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, special guest host and former Rex and Virgin Australia pilot, Captain Michelle Huntington, returns to lend Jake her regional aviation expertise as they unpack all the big news from outside the big smoke.
Plus, will the government's new consumer protection measures drive up airfares as the airlines claim, and is Qantas trying to destroy the competition on a Pacific island route?
Qantas is officially exiting the low-cost market in Asia, announcing this week that it will sell off its shares in Jetstar Japan, which comprise a third of the airline, and focus on its operations closer to home.
The surprise move comes not long after the shuttering last year of Singapore-based Jetstar Asia – and with the Flying Kangaroo out of the picture, what is to become of its now-former Japanese joint venture after 14 years in the skies?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David look at what's next for Jetstar Japan as it prepares for new ownership – and new branding.
Plus, as if normal weather wasn't bad enough, now airlines have to worry about space weather, too – so how can we defend aircraft from software-scrambling cosmic rays?
The verdict is in: after a review by the Department of Finance, government travellers will be allowed to continue to claim airline status credits on flights for official business, though taking advantage of bonus credit offers is definitively out.
It's a victory for Qantas, which insists that letting bureaucrats take advantage of perks like lounge access and baggage allowances saves taxpayers money – and a setback for Virgin, which argues that the policy unfairly favours Qantas and incentivises taking more expensive flights on the public purse.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David dive back into the debate around public servants' airline benefits and ask whether Finance got the balance right.
Plus, a new report warns that cyber-criminals could use drones to hack into Australia's critical infrastructure – but how can a pineapple be used maliciously, and what do raspberry pies have to do with it?
It's a tug-of-war as old as aviation itself – airlines and airports wrangling over fees – and now, the airlines have the ACCC (at least partially) on their end of the rope.
The consumer watchdog and the airline industry are both pushing for an overhaul to the current regulations which they say benefit "geographic monopoly" airports like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, and lead to higher fees and airfares – but are they right?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David wade into the eternal stoush and examine the arguments on either side – as well as what the airports need all that money for.
Plus, the latest in the saga of Western Sydney Airport's delayed metro line; passenger numbers continue to surge; and what's the latest on China's answer to Boeing and Airbus?
As AI becomes more ubiquitous in everyday life, airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia are looking to increase their use of AI tools in operational and customer-facing areas of their business.
Proponents say AI can improve efficiency, safety, productivity and customer experience in aviation – but what are the risks?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David are joined by Daniel Croft of AI Daily to discuss whether we should welcome our new robot overlords.
Plus, where do Australian airlines stand in the region's on-time performance stakes?
With just 5.1 per cent of roles in air traffic controllers, pilots and licensed aircraft maintenance held by women – and only 4 per cent globally for pilots – the pace of change towards gender parity in aviation is still glacial.
Though Australia's figures are a little higher, even here we still have a long way to go, and with the aviation industry crying out for talent, it's clear that we need to make a big push for a more diverse workforce.
Leidos Australia has recently hit its goal of 20 per cent female pilots, with the aerospace firm driving hard towards a more inclusive corporate culture at the same time.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake Nelson talks to Jesse Young from Leidos and Kristen Raby of Aviation/Aerospace Australia on how the industry can learn from Leidos' example, and how to break down the barriers to a more diverse workforce.
Keeping operational manuals up-to-date is a vital part of ensuring that any aviation company is maintaining regulatory compliance and that staff are aware of the latest policies and procedures.
Many businesses, however, are still using outdated and clunky methods such as Word documents and PDFs to distribute their manuals – a time-consuming and error-prone process that presents significant operational risks.
Web Manuals, an all-in-one document management system, has recently arrived in Australia and is offering flexible, adaptable, AI-enabled editing, review, distribution and monitoring of operational manuals and other important documents.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake Nelson speaks to Web Manuals CEO Martin Lidgard on the company's Australian expansion and the importance of streamlining compliance management of operational manuals.
It could have been Australia's worst-ever airline disaster – but it wasn't. When an engine exploded aboard Qantas flight 32 in 2010, its crew were faced with a "black swan" event, one so unthinkable they could not possibly prepare for it.
With critical systems in chaos and hundreds of lives at stake, the A380's crew, led by Captain Richard de Crespigny, had to figure out how to get the plane safely back on the ground … and over the course of several harrowing hours, they succeeded.
Not only did the team save the aircraft with the odds stacked against them, but they got every single soul off the aircraft without even one injury, cementing QF32's place in the aviation history books for all the right reasons.
In this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Captain de Crespigny tells Jake Nelson the story of QF32, 15 years on – and what it taught him about the value of resilience.
A year is a long time in aviation, and 2025 has seemed a longer year than most – what with the long-running Rex administration; Qantas' ongoing travails; Virgin Australia's tie-up with Qatar Airways and subsequent IPO; fleet renewals aplenty; and a deluge of other news.
Looking ahead, 2026 looms as what will doubtless be another huge year for the sector, including the opening of Western Sydney International Airport, the delivery of Qantas' first Project Sunrise jets, and the potential entry of new airlines to Australia's skies.
On the final regular Australian Aviation Podcast for this year, Jake and David reflect on what 2025 brought and what 2026 is set to bring – and wish you all the best for the holiday season.
Plus, a truly astonishing escape for a Queensland skydiver, and Qantas' newly-returned A380 is grounded again.
If there's one issue that never really goes away for Australia's aviation sector, it's airfares. Massive demand has pushed prices up, according to the ACCC, with October airfares at their highest since 2022, despite both Qantas Group and Virgin Australia adding extra capacity. To make matters worse for those out west, the WA government is set to increase caps for regional airfares during "high-demand" periods, while the spectre of rising airfares also appears to have spooked Canberra into nixing plans for an EU-style "pay-on-delay" scheme. On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and David look at the factors putting the squeeze on Australian travellers' wallets, and whether newer, larger, and more efficient aircraft might bring some relief. Plus, the last Qantas A380 comes home, skydiving instructors jump off the job, and is Australia playing catch-up on border processing technology?
If you were looking to fly anywhere in Australia this past weekend: we're so sorry to hear it. Between a fire at Melbourne Airport, the grounding of half of Jetstar's A320 fleet, and a nationwide passport processing outage, delays and cancellations plagued travellers for three days straight.
Now that everything has (thankfully) returned to normal, what exactly was the deal with that Airbus software update – and what does it mean for the workhorse A320, one of the most popular passenger aircraft types in the world?
On this week's podcast, Jake, David and Bethany sift through the ashes of a chaotic weekend in the skies, and analyse the aftermath of the A320 grounding.
Plus, Virgin's flirtation with ChatGPT, international traffic continues to surge, and how safe is it to step on board a hot-air balloon?
With outdated and confusing systems and processes common across the aviation industry, safety and compliance can be a thorny problem for many businesses, with "data silos" holding up procedures.
OneReg, a New Zealand-based company, aims to change all that, moving businesses away from cluttered folders of Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and PDFs to centralise compliance on one easy-to-use platform.
With customers across Australia, New Zealand, the UK and EU, and the Middle East, OneReg is looking to enable industry-wide data sharing to help the aviation sector move away from tick-box compliance and into a new "gold standard".
On this podcast, Jake Nelson talks to Clint Cardozo and Carly Waddleton from OneReg on the perils of data silos in aviation, and how to streamline the regulatory compliance process.
After months in the works, it's official – from December, you'll be banned from using or charging your portable power bank on flights with any major airline in Australia.
Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin, which already require power banks to be carried in cabin baggage and kept within easy reach, will now prohibit passengers from using them entirely – instead, you'll need to use in-seat power if available, or simply go without.
On this week's podcast, as the start dates loom, Jake and David revisit the airlines' power bank ban and examine the safety issues that have driven it.
Plus, does Western Sydney Airport need more support to get its lofty ambitions off the ground?
It's said that every accident makes aviation safer – but that doesn't happen on its own. Across the globe, air incident investigators are on the scene whenever something goes wrong with an aircraft, finding out the root of the problem and making sure it doesn't happen again.
But what skills are most important to investigators: aviation experience, or scientific training and critical thinking? What does an investigation team need to be certain they've got it right?
In this podcast, Professor Brett Molesworth, head of UNSW School of Aviation, hosts a wide-ranging conversation on the fundamental tension between traditional aviation expertise and scientific methodology in incident investigation.
Join him in this fascinating panel discussion with Wing Commander Clare Fry, Defence Flight Safety Bureau; Dr Curtis Calabrese, United Airlines captain, director of operations for Skyways Charter, former FAA Inspector and U.S. Navy Reconnaissance pilot; Dr David Wilson, senior transport safety investigator, ATSB; and James Barnett, manager group investigations, Qantas.
It's only been a few months since the end of Jetstar Asia, but now Jetstar is looking to make a bigger push back into the Singapore market. Starting next March, the low-cost carrier will fly between the Lion City and Bali … but that won't be the end of the journey.
In an interesting twist, the Singapore–Bali services will only be one leg on direct routes connecting through to the Sunshine Coast and Newcastle, a pair of smaller airports in regional cities that wouldn't normally expect to see Singapore services – so, what's the plan for Jetstar?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake, David and Bethany take a look at Jetstar's new Singapore routes, what they might do for the cities they serve, and what might be next.
Plus, the plan to link Western Sydney Airport to high-speed rail – will it ever happen, and what will come of it if it does?
A few short years ago, Project Sunrise – Qantas' plan to fly non-stop from the east coast to London and New York – was a mere gleam in Alan Joyce's eye. Now, however, as the first A350-1000ULR gets ready to have its engines fitted, those marathon flights are looking closer than ever.
While there's still a lot of work to be done, including extensive test flights, before the plane can be delivered in 2026 ahead of Project Sunrise's planned 2027 launch, there's now something undeniably concrete about the Flying Kangaroo's ultra-long-haul ambitions – but will they succeed?
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake and Bethany discuss the milestone and what it might be like to spend upwards of 22 straight hours in the sky.
Plus, Avalon Airport is set to return to international flights – is Melbourne's second gateway finally seeing some love?
Last month, a remarkable journey came to an end when 16-year-old Byron Waller touched down at Brisbane Airport following 67 days circumnavigating the globe in a light aircraft.
Covering 41,700km in his Sling TSi, Byron's odyssey through the skies took him over oceans, deserts, ice fields, and everything in between, including a landing at the Grand Canyon and guest appearances at big airshows.
It was a monumental effort from a young aviator who just a few years ago was bedridden with chronic illnesses, and turned to flying – including becoming the youngest pilot to circumnavigate Australia, at age 14 – to make his dreams a reality.
On this week's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake talks to Byron and his mum Jeni about his incredible achievement – and his future aviation ambitions.
After more than a year fossilised in amber, Australia's third largest airline looks to have avoided extinction – American firm Air T has agreed to buy Rex, prompting roars of approval from government and industry as well as the best name for any corporate buyout in history.
But while Air T brings with it plenty of Saab 340 parts to resurrect Rex's dinosaur planes, will fleet renewal still be on the menu – and will creditors get their money back?
Jake, David, and graduate journalist Bethany Alvaro make approximately too many Jurassic Park references as they dissect Air T's Rex purchase and what it might mean for the regional airline's future.
Plus, the first jet lands at Western Sydney Airport; ex-Virgin boss Paul Scurrah returns to aviation; and what, scientifically, is an "RBH"?
A year and a half after the abrupt collapse of Bonza, its erstwhile financier, Miami-based investment firm 777 Partners, is under the microscope again – and for all the wrong reasons.
Its co-founder and former CFO have both been charged by the FBI over allegations of a jaw-dropping US$500 million fraud scheme, with accusations levelled of a complex web of lies and financial chicanery that left lenders and investors holding the bag.
Jake and David dig into the charges and reflect again on how much 777 Partners' alleged dodgy dealings may have brought Bonza down.
Plus, which carrier was Australia's most on-time airline in 2024–25 – and what do you do with a radioactive cat?
Sydney is on the verge of a major aviation transformation. With Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird-Walton) Airport set to open in 2026, the city will soon operate as a two-airport metropolis. How will the two-airport city work?
Western Sydney is now Australia's third-largest economy, with its population set to grow to around 3 million by the 2030s. With air travel demand set to double over the next 20 years, Western Sydney Airport promises to unlock new opportunities in transport, business, and tourism. But delivering on that vision requires careful planning and collaboration.
In this podcast, a panel hosted by UNSW School of Aviation dives into what the opening of Western Sydney Airport will mean for passengers, businesses, and the broader economy.
Join Paul Willis, group executive, planning & delivery, Sydney Airport; Karen Jones, CEO, Destination NSW; and Stevan Sipka, senior manager, network and fleet, Qantas Freight, in a thought-provoking discussion moderated by Dr Ian Douglas, honorary senior lecturer, UNSW Aviation and former chair, International Air Services Commission, on Sydney's two-airport future.
Just when Qantas thought the saga of its frequent flyer hack might be over, a fresh headache has hit the Flying Kangaroo as online miscreants published the stolen data on the dark web.
The airline is warning customers to beware of scammers, and says it is working with "specialist cyber security experts" to investigate exactly what data was leaked – but what does all this mean for the 5 million people caught up in the breach?
Jake turns to David's cyber expertise to find out what might be next for Qantas, and what you can do to protect yourself if you're affected.
Plus, a treat for all you military aviation aficionados out there as our defence and aerospace lead Steve Kuper joins us to talk new Army Apaches, Anduril's answer to the Ghost Bat, and more.
While most of us can navigate airports without a second thought, those with disabilities can find it much more difficult – and people who have hidden disabilities like autism face their own unique challenges.
As airports and airlines implement more accessibility measures for those with obvious needs like wheelchair users and the visually impaired, less is known on what to do for autistic travellers who can face severe sensory issues in the noisy, chaotic environment of an airport.
Fortunately, the tide is starting to turn, with sunflower lanyards making hidden disabilities more visible, and policy changes allowing autistic people to use aids like noise-cancelling headphones to make their airport journeys easier.
On this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake talks to Emma Beardsley and Dr Tom Tutton from Aspect Autism Friendly on what autistic people have to deal with at airports, and how not just staff but other travellers can support fellow passengers with a sunflower lanyard.
It’s finally here – the biggest change to Qantas’ domestic fleet in decades. The new A321XLR has joined the national carrier with its first commercial flight, and with 48 on order to replace the ageing 737-800s, it’s the most ambitious phase yet in the airline’s massive fleet renewal program.
With a wider body, more fuel-efficient engines, and a slew of other changes, the A321XLR is a massive leap for the Flying Kangaroo – but does it live up to the hype, and what’s being done about the delicate issue of the toilets?
On this week’s podcast, Jake has a full trip report of the inaugural flight of the Qantas A321XLR, and he and David discuss what it will do for the airline both domestically and internationally.
Plus, Qantas looks to improve its battered reputation by making it a condition of CEO Vanessa Hudson’s bonuses: will it work, or is it just a PR stunt?
Spare a thought for anyone who’s tried to get to or from Europe this week – not only is a “super typhoon” wreaking havoc in Hong Kong, but a massive ransomware attack over the weekend crippled several major airports in Europe, including London’s Heathrow.
Passengers were stranded, flights thrown into chaos, and scenes of long lines and pandemonium dominated the headlines – but never fear, for the Australian Aviation Podcast has just the expertise to break down what happened and who might be responsible.
On this week’s podcast, Jake and David take a look back at the hack attack, how it unfolded, and what it might mean for Australian airports.
Plus, three QantasLink bases could get the chop following a review – how might it impact both staff and regional travellers?
After almost 30 years in service, Virgin Australia Regional Airlines is finally allowing its old Fokkers to retire with the arrival of the Embraer E190-E2, the first of which touched down from Brazil this month.
With an improved range, a new cabin, and more efficient engines, the E2 might just be what Virgin’s regional arm needs to expand its operations across WA – and potentially even further east.
On this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake is back to deliver his full trip report on the ferry flight from Canberra to Perth, and to look at where the new E-Jets could fit in to Virgin’s larger network… as well as to reveal his new co-host at the thrilling conclusion of the “Game of Thorns”!
Plus, Sydney Airport unveils plans to link its two domestic terminals – could the T2/T3 “Franken-terminal” set it up to compete with its new western rival?
From joy-rides in a Mirage III fighter jet at age seven, to selling her home to help pay for flight lessons, to flying for Rex and eventually becoming one of the faces of Virgin Australia, Captain Michelle Huntington has had a truly astonishing journey.
She’s flown solo in a Beechcraft Bonanza from Arizona to Bankstown, been struck by lightning in mid-air, battled unruly passengers, and stared down industry sexism – but through it all, never lost her sense of adventure.
After leaving the industry during the height of COVID-19, Michelle has taken to the speaking circuit to share the lessons she’s learned, many of which also feature in her new book Lady MacGyver: Unbelievable stories with altitude.
On this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake sits down with Michelle to talk about her career, her book, whether there’s life after the sky – and how to keep your internal organs in their proper place at 30,000 feet.
The sound of investor presentations and ASX releases can only mean one thing: results season has come again, bringing joy and cheer to all the good shareholders of the land – especially those who’ve invested in airlines.
Qantas has posted another bumper profit as it looks to snap up even more A321XLRs, Virgin Australia has celebrated its 25th anniversary with a healthy result, Alliance is flying more hours than ever, and across the Tasman, even Air New Zealand is still in the black despite its many headaches.
Jake and guest host Benjamin Foster unpack all the major airlines’ results and take a look ahead to the prospects for 2026.
Plus, it’s the end of the line for Gold Coast Airport’s light rail – what might replace the controversial project as the Olympics draw ever closer?
As it recovers from massive fines and reputational headaches, Qantas has a new hairy problem to deal with over its move to make QantasLink flight crews adopt the same grooming standards as mainline Qantas and Jetstar pilots: namely, no beards allowed.
Qantas insists this is for safety reasons, with a report saying facial hair can interfere with oxygen masks – but hirsute Qantas pilots are crying “not by the hair on our chinny-chin-chins,” and pointing to studies showing beards shave hardly anything off the safety margin. So, who’s right?
Jake is joined by special guest host and fellow facial hair enthusiast Keith Ford of the ifa and SMSF Adviser podcasts to look at the arguments for and against the beard ban, and to take a brave stand against pogonophobia.
Plus, a bunfight erupts over government frequent-flyer perks, and Koala Airlines responds to our challenge – were we wrong about the scrappy start-up?
It’s the largest corporate fine for industrial relations breaches in Australian history: a mammoth $90 million, handed down to Qantas for the illegal outsourcing of around 1,800 ground workers during the pandemic – on top of $120 million already imposed in compensation.
At 75 per cent of the maximum penalty, it will doubtless put the fear of God (and the unions) into other large companies who might be considering similar moves, and the national carrier has offered an apology – but is it really sorry, or, as Justice Michael Lee speculated, only sorry it got caught?
Jake and special guest host Emilie Lauer of Smart Property Investment unpack the ramifications of the fine and ask whether a leopard ... or a Flying Kangaroo ... really can change its spots.
Plus, between ageing planes, razor-thin margins and soaring airfares, what can be done about the ongoing travails of regional aviation?
The latest episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast spotlights two finalists in the 2025 Australian Aviation Awards, with host Steve Kuper joined by Daniel Wang, head of programs for ATC and air defence at Rohde & Schwarz, and Rodney Sciortino, head of civil air traffic control.
Together, they explore how the global technology company is delivering cutting-edge solutions across both the defence and civil aviation sectors, from deployable ATC towers to AI-driven technologies, cyber security safeguards, and the growing role of drones in airspace management.
One of the standout capabilities they discuss is the transportable air operations tower (TAOT), a mobile system supporting both the Australian Defence Force and civilian organisations. The TAOT provides critical flexibility for operations in austere environments, disaster relief zones, and even during major events like the Avalon Airshow.
As Wang says, the system allows the ADF to project air power and sustain operations from remote airfields, while Sciortino highlights its civil applications, from ensuring continuity after natural disasters to supporting firefighting aircraft and temporary tower upgrades.
The trio also discuss Wang and Sciortino's journey to Rohde & Schwarz, and how the company's blend of global innovation, local experience, and cross-sector expertise is helping shape the future of air traffic management in Australia and the wider Indo-Pacific.
Enjoy the Podcast, The Australian Aviation Team
It’s been five years since a Tigerair plane last graced Australia’s skies – and the aviation ecosystem is still coping with Tigerair’s extinction.
That’s according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, which has found that domestic capacity has still not recovered to June 2019 levels though demand is now back where it was before the pandemic, as the loss of Tigerair created a hole of around 400,000 monthly seats made worse by later reductions from Rex. Jake Nelson and guest host Daniel Croft of Cyber Daily take a look at the ACCC’s report and ask who – if anyone – could fill the gap Tigerair left behind.
Plus, how can we solve the growing mental health crisis in general aviation?
After 30 years criss-crossing regional Queensland, it’s the end of the road for Skytrans – not for the airline itself, which will keep flying, but for the name. New owner Avia Solutions Group is rebranding the carrier as SmartLynx Australia, echoing some of its other brands overseas.
Along with the name change will come a new paint job for the airline’s existing aircraft, with the Skytrans livery to be covered in neutral white, allowing the planes to be more easily used for wet leasing and charter flights when needed – but for Queenslanders who know and love the Skytrans brand, will the change prove a turn-off?
Jake and guest host David Hollingworth examine the pros and cons of the change, and whether all-white planes are an appealing prospect for passengers.
Plus, scrappy upstart Koala Airlines is back in the news – but does its ambition of launching domestic services by the end of next year hold much water?
It’s the bombshell the aviation industry never saw coming, one that has shaken the sector to its core: after five and a half years at Australian Aviation, renowned luminary and thought leader Adam Thorn is leaving Momentum Media.
Over the course of his tenure, Adam has seen COVID-19 shutdowns, travel chaos, and the collapse of multiple Australian airlines – and while he’ll still be leading the print magazine, in many ways it’s the end of an era, a seismic shift rivalling even the exit of Alan Joyce from Qantas in 2023.
Co-hosts Jake Nelson and Benjamin Foster join Adam to reflect on half a decade at the helm of Australian Aviation and what comes next.
Plus, the Ansett brand has been resurrected – but is an “AI-powered” travel booking site really the best use for it?
They’ve become an indispensable part of our modern digital lives, but airlines are increasingly wary of portable lithium batteries and power banks, which can have an alarming tendency to catch fire if damaged or short-circuited.
Though power banks are already required to be carried in cabin luggage to ensure easy access if something goes wrong, some carriers have gone further, banning their use and charging entirely during flights – and Virgin Australia may be next, after a bag burst into flames in an overhead locker on a flight to Hobart.
As in-seat charging ports become more common, Adam and Jake plug in to the issue and ask: is banning in-flight power bank use a reasonable safety step or an overreaction?
Plus, regional airports are becoming international gateways as travellers and airlines look to bypass the big city hubs, and how can we bring the “glamour” back to aviation careers?
Sydney Airport has a new slot manager, one with no ties to the big domestic airlines … and yet, Qantas Group has still nabbed the majority of available take-off and landing slots over the end-of-year peak, with Virgin a distant second.
With 52 per cent of the slots allocated to Qantas and Jetstar, the Flying Kangaroo’s dominance at Sydney continues – but might this put to bed the idea that the old slot manager was too cosy with the major airlines?
Adam and Jake dig into the data and ask whether the great Sydney slot debate will ever go away.
Plus, what went wrong in a disastrous Melbourne drone show two years ago that saw 427 drones plummet into the Yarra?
It’s been just over a week since Qantas suffered a major data breach, with cyber criminals stealing a trove of customer data from a call centre including names, email addresses and frequent flyer numbers.
The reputational shellacking is one the Flying Kangaroo certainly didn’t need, but has the backlash been fair, and what has Qantas been doing to protect customers in the wake of the attack?
Adam and Jake are joined by special guest David Hollingworth from Cyber Daily to discuss the impact and aftermath of the hack, and how you can protect your data.
Plus, Huey Award laureate Hinterland Aviation is up for sale – who might snap up the much-loved regional carrier?
After a long wait and a marathon ferry flight from Hamburg, Qantas’ first A321XLR, VH-OGA, has finally touched down in Australia, a significant step in the Flying Kangaroo’s “Project Winton” fleet renewal.
It’s the beginning of the end for Qantas’ ageing 737-800 fleet, even as the airline looks to acquire a few more “mid-life” 737s to tide it over as it waits – and with a range of 8,700km, compared to around 5,000km on the 737-800, might the A321XLR fleet fly internationally as well as domestically?
Adam and Jake discuss the latest on Qantas’ fleet changes, including plans to replace QantasLink’s Fokker 100s with Embraer E190s, and what the A321XLR might do for the national carrier beyond Australia’s shores.
Plus, a “rain bomb” blows a massive hole in Sydney Airport’s schedule – is the new two-hour recovery period enough to mitigate the disruptive effects of wild weather?
It was a day five years in the making for Virgin Australia, and it went off without a hitch: Australia’s second-largest airline group is finally back on the ASX, with CEO Dave Emerson ringing the bell for its IPO on Tuesday.
The relisting caps off a remarkable turnaround for Virgin Australia after it collapsed into administration in 2020 during COVID-19 – but now that the long road back to public trading is over, what’s next for the carrier?
Adam and Jake discuss how Virgin got back on its feet, how it’s changed its business model, and where its future might take it.
Plus, with tensions in the Middle East playing havoc with flights through the region, should airlines be looking at more connecting hubs between Australia and Europe?
Almost 40 years after its rebranding as Australian Airlines – and just over 30 years after its merger with Qantas – a consortium is planning to bring back Trans Australia Airlines, or TAA, with an ambitious plan that would see Rex become the resurrected airline’s regional arm.
While Rex’s administrator has knocked back Renaissance Partners’ dark-horse bid a second time, the firm is not yet giving up on its goal of turning Darwin into a hub for incoming flights from Australia’s north – but could it actually work?
Adam and Jake discuss the plan for the new TAA, what it might do for passengers, and whether it could avoid Australia’s ever-growing airline graveyard.
Plus, Virgin’s IPO finally hits the runway next week, big milestones at Western Sydney International Airport, and why the Air India crash doesn’t necessarily spell doom for the Dreamliner.
With co-host Jake Nelson off sick, Australian Aviation has had to improvise for this week’s podcast.
But what a treat we have for you. Two weeks ago, Australian Aviation’s sister brand, Space Connect, hosted its Australian Space Summit & Exhibition, otherwise known as AusSpace 25.
In our best panel, regular host Adam Thorn moderated a panel with three Australian astronauts, with the questions asked by schoolchildren.
Paul Scully-Power was Australia’s first-ever astronaut, who went to space in 1984. Eric Philips blasted off to space on a private SpaceX mission in April, while Katherine Bennell-Pegg was the first astronaut to formally qualify under the Australian flag.
With Western Sydney International Airport still a year and a half from opening, an unexpected alternative might be about to hit the congested NSW market: Newcastle Airport, a couple of hours north of Sydney, will soon have flights to Perth and Bali with more routes potentially on the way.
The news will not only allow Hunter Region residents to travel further afield without having to make the trek down to Sydney, it could also give Sydneysiders an alternative to the city’s own crowded airport while WSI finishes construction, providing to Sydney what Gold Coast Airport does to Brisbane.
As Newcastle Airport nears completion on its ambitious international terminal redevelopment, Adam and Jake look at what it might do for commercial aviation on the east coast.
Plus, after the tumult of the last few years, is Qantas finally climbing its way out of a massive public trust deficit?
On 2 July, associate professor Andrew Kornberg, senior neurologist at The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, will set off from Moorabbin Airport on a journey around Australia in his own single-engine plane to raise $4.5 million for children with rare and complex neurological conditions.
The “Fly for the Kids” campaign – similar to Andrew’s previous flight in 2017 – will see him cover 27,000 kilometres over more than 50 hours in the air, in the hopes of establishing dedicated facilities and staff at the RCH for advanced therapies.
Along the way, Andrew will visit patients who have been given these new treatments in an effort to raise awareness of how kids with rare conditions can be given longer and happier lives.
Andrew spoke to the Australian Aviation Podcast ahead of his journey.
After five tumultuous years as head of Air New Zealand, CEO Greg Foran is preparing to hang up his wings this October.
Between COVID-19 border closures, fleet delays, maintenance issues and other problems, it’s fair to say the Kiwi flag carrier has had a rough half-decade – but how well has it weathered the storm?
On location in Auckland, Australian Aviation’s Jake Nelson talks to Foran about his tenure, what he might have done differently, and what might be next for the airline.
Plus, Adam and Jake discuss the rest of the week’s news, including Qantas’ ongoing attempts to draw a line under the Joyce era.
Jake Nelson travelled as a guest of Air New Zealand.
She’s back – after Labor secured a thumping majority in this month’s federal election, Catherine King has been reappointed to her portfolio as minister for transport and infrastructure.
In her first term, the minister released an Aviation White Paper, pushed ahead with reforms to Sydney slots, backed the new Western Sydney Airport, ended the war over Melbourne’s airport rail link, and pledged to save Rex from going under – so what can we expect this time around?
Adam and Jake look at what the government – and the minister – might prioritise for aviation over the next three years and potentially beyond.
Plus, Australia’s busiest day for air travel in five years – and we promise we’ll stop talking about America eventually, but seriously, what’s the go with America?
As tariffs and border crackdowns continue stateside, the number of Australians taking trips to the US has slumped, with travel to Asia surging instead – a trend noticed by Flight Centre, which is taking a hit to its bottom line.
It’s not just passengers that are causing a headache for aviation amid the US uncertainty, however: if the trade war causes a Chinese slowdown, the resulting drop in demand for resources could have a knock-on impact on the FIFO sector, with NJE’s Lim Kim Hai already looking to cut spending.
Adam and Jake discuss what the Trump administration’s policies abroad could do – and have already done – to aviation in Australia.
Plus, is there a culture problem at general aviation businesses?
It’s one of the biggest political bunfights in Australia’s aviation sector – should the government force airlines to compensate passengers for delays within their control, above and beyond the usual refunds or flight credits?
If you listen to the airlines, the answer is a resounding no, with representatives at the Senate committee hearings on proposed legislation warning it could drive up costs and lead to more delays and cancellations.
But according to customer advocate Adam Glezer of Consumer Champion, that’s not the case – and, in fact, there are some hidden upsides in the idea for industry as well as consumers.
On this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake Nelson speaks with Glezer about his work and why he supports more robust passenger protections.
As if Boeing needed more bad news, the US-China trade war has delivered another body blow to the planemaker with Beijing ordering a halt on new Boeing plane deliveries to Chinese airlines.
As China’s aviation industry is upended by the news, what does it mean for one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world – not to mention Boeing’s competitors, and other countries looking to get their hands on scarce planes?
Adam and Jake examine the fallout and how the tit-for-tat tariffs could squeeze more industries than just aviation.
Plus, Australia hits new heights for international travel, and a dark-horse candidate takes home the coveted Huey.
Almost a year after the swift and sudden demise of Bonza, some relief for its directors came this month with ASIC confirming it would take no further action against them.
Absent any further evidence, the decision effectively draws a line under the collapse of a carrier that started with dreams of uniting “Allstralia” and ended in a storm of tears, recriminations and misfortune – but did it ever have a shot to begin with?
Adam and Jake look back at the Bonza saga and what could have been.
Plus, surprising news from Western Sydney as Qantas clarifies just which of its airlines will be operating from the new airport at launch – and it’s not the ones we expected.
Another April Fool’s Day is behind us, and unfortunately for everyone excited about driving in a 737 from Sydney to Melbourne, it turns out “Wombat Groundways” isn’t actually real – sorry.
Between Virgin Australia allowing you to check your “emotional baggage” and Mad Mex’s move into in-flight catering, aviation April Fool’s fans ate well this month – but it turns out one supposed prank may have been the real deal after all.
Adam and Jake discuss a surprise move by Emirates that the airline insists is no joke.
Plus, vale Val Kilmer – in the wake of Iceman’s passing, how well does Top Gun hold up?
It’s the biggest event in Australian aviation: the biennial Avalon Airshow, which this year ran over six days at the end of March.
Featuring static and aerial displays, as well as trade exhibitors and networking events, the 2025 show attracted more than 200,000 people in total across the six days, including 60,000 industry visitors.
Around 350 aircraft were on show, either in the air and on the ground, with 902 participating exhibitor organisations from 28 countries contributing to the event.
On the ground at the airshow, Adam and Jake get an up-close look at some military hardware as they discuss the news of the previous week.
Mission Aviation Fellowship uses its aircraft and volunteers to help people living in the most isolated communities in Australia and around the world. In this episode, the charity’s new local CEO, Chris Barnes, talks about their vital work, and what you can do to support them. The pair also discuss the organisation’s history, its fleet and stories of how their team are making a real difference to people that need it most.
As the “big four” airports – Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth – bring in record revenues for their aeronautical operations, they’re starting to splash a lot of that cash on future-proofing their infrastructure.
Between third runways, terminal renovations, new safety technologies, and of course the ongoing construction of a second Sydney international gateway, airports on both sides of the Tasman are set to spend billions on upgrades over the next decade.
Adam and Jake look at some of the latest projects in the spotlight and what they mean for the sector as it continues to recover from the lingering effects of the pandemic.
Plus, does the government’s proposed aviation charter of customer rights go too far – or not far enough?
Between tropical cyclones, cockpit medical episodes, and airport security breaches – and all of those just in Australia – one could perhaps be forgiven this week for having a sudden bout of aerophobia.
There’s been a harsher spotlight on aviation safety stateside, too, with staffing cuts threatening the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as SpaceX’s latest Starship explosion forcing the closure of four major airports in Florida.
Adam and Jake look back at a wild week in the skies and discuss some of the safety concerns that have been brought to the forefront.
Plus, some long-awaited white smoke at Virgin Australia as a new chief executive is announced just hours before the carrier is awarded its coveted 28 weekly flights to Doha – so what will Jayne Hrdlicka’s legacy be as she finally bows out of the top job?
Since the departure of Alan Joyce in late 2023, new Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson has largely eschewed her predecessor’s bombastic camera-friendly style, instead keeping her head down and focused on rebuilding Australia’s trust in the Flying Kangaroo.
Passenger experience has become the watchword, with the recent announcement of another solid half-yearly profit being accompanied by the promise of a cabin refit for 42 aging 737-800s as the airline awaits more of its new-generation Airbus fleet – but is Hudson’s approach bearing fruit?
Adam and Jake discuss the delicate balancing act and whether Qantas is beginning to climb out of the trust deficit the old management left behind.
Plus, Qatar Airways’ bid for a stake in Virgin gets the all-important green light from the government, and how can the aviation sector address the lingering gender pay gap?
More than 10 years after the mysterious disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight 370 in the Indian Ocean, the plane has yet to be found despite two search efforts – and the families of those who lost their lives still have no answers.
But a new search effort, led by Ocean Infinity, has once again raised hopes that the wreckage may yet be uncovered – this time, by examining four potential “hotspots” west of Perth that were missed on previous expeditions. The question is, are these hopes just an illusion?
Adam and Jake are joined by special guest Hannah Dowling to discuss the search and whether or not there is any chance for a breakthrough.
Plus, Chinese naval exercises in the Tasman Sea spark concerns about air safety – why did pilots only find out after they had already started?
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn speaks with Jeff Shaknaitis, the customer sustainability leader at GE Aerospace, about the industry's push toward net-zero emissions by 2050.
Jeff shares his career journey and how his passion for sustainability led him to play a key role in GE’s efforts to help airlines decarbonise, including its groundbreaking 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel test flight.
They explore innovations like the Open Fan engine, hybrid-electric propulsion, and the challenges of scaling SAFs in future.
As Rex has limped on in administration over the past half-year, with prospects for a sale dimming, the question has occasionally been asked: might the government step in more forcefully to keep its essential services in the air?
Now we have our answer: if the administrators can’t find a buyer, the government is looking at the option to buy Rex itself, which would make the carrier the first in Australia to be publicly owned since the privatisation of Qantas around 30 years ago. But what would await the government if it were to stump up the cash for the ailing airline – and is it a good idea in the first place?
Adam and Jake discuss what might be behind the decision, and whether it’s scuppered any chance for a commercial sale.
Plus, with the ACCC looking to wave the Qatar deal through, are Virgin Australia flights to Doha now all but inevitable?
The news came like an assassin in the night: Paul Jones, the long-rumoured frontrunner to replace Jayne Hrdlicka as CEO of Virgin Australia, was out of contention following pushback by the powerful TWU.
With no further word on who might be under consideration for the top job – and with Hrdlicka still saying she intends to leave the airline – when might we know who will sit in the captain’s chair of Australia’s second-largest airline group?
Adam and Jake discuss what might be next for Virgin as the CEO search continues.
Plus, will a Finnair pilots’ strike throw a spanner in Qantas’ works?
It’s been a few months since the announcement of one of the biggest deals in recent Australian commercial aviation history: the purchase of 25 per cent of Virgin Australia by Qatar Airways, and with it, the return of Virgin international wide-body services through a wet-lease agreement for flights to Doha.
Approval for those services currently rests with the International Air Services Commission, a government body that will decide whether to award Virgin the necessary 28 flights per week to Qatar – and Virgin has said in a letter to the IASC that there is essentially no reason to block the proposal, which has received widespread support and is not being contested.
Adam and Jake revisit the politics at play and ask when the airlines – and punters – could see the new flights greenlit.
Plus, is the federal government on a path to nationalising Rex, and could we see the return of commercial supersonic travel sooner than we expected?
The Spitfire, the Hurricane, the Kittyhawk – when asked to name the fighter planes that won World War II, most people would place these legendary machines high on the list.
Yet largely absent from these lofty histories is the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation’s CA-13 Boomerang – Australia’s home-grown fighter plane, adapted from a training aircraft design and deployed in the Pacific theatre.
Though it was plagued with teething problems and never took down an enemy aircraft, the Boomerang carved out its own niche working with the Army in battlefields like the dense jungles of New Guinea.
In this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake Nelson talks to Don Williams, author of The CAC Boomerang: Australia's Own WWII Fighter, about the unique role played by the Boomerang in Australia’s aviation history – and how it can be better remembered.
In the wake of Bonza’s collapse and Rex’s administration last year, another prospective domestic carrier – Koala Airlines – was suddenly garnering media attention despite not yet having aircraft or a clear business plan.
While its website, filled with glossy renders of 737 MAX 8s, promised to “carve out a unique niche” in Australia’s aviation sector, a winding-up application filed against it in Victoria last week has raised questions about whether it would ever actually get off the ground.
Adam and Jake discuss whether Koala’s lofty ambitions of “creating a lasting impact on the industry” are over before they even began.
Plus, Perth Airport booms as it invests big in the future, transport links to Western Sydney Airport take shape, and how many podcast hosts does it take to assemble a model plane?
As water bombers try to contain the dramatic wildfires besieging Los Angeles, there are fresh warnings that longer fire seasons overseas may prevent other countries from sending their firefighting aircraft to help Australia in future.
Though the bushfire seasons since 2019–20’s Black Summer have been comparatively mild, it’s likely only a matter of time before the conditions are right for a repeat – but will Australia’s sovereign firefighting fleet be ready?
Adam and Jake discuss the progress that has been made since the royal commission and whether successive governments have done enough to prepare for the next catastrophic bushfires.
Plus, as Jetstar continues to expand its Sunshine Coast operations and Launceston looks for new entrants to take over Bonza’s former routes, will other airlines try – or be able – to fill the void the low-cost carrier left behind?
Last year ended in another aviation tragedy, with the horror crash of Jeju Air flight 7C2216 in Muan, South Korea, killing all but two people on board. As investigators sift through the plane’s wreckage and the black boxes to figure out what went wrong, light aircraft crashes closer to home are raising questions about whether our own transport safety watchdog, the ATSB, should expand its remit. Adam and Jake examine once again the issue of aviation safety and look at what might have gone wrong in Muan. Plus, the government’s proposed charter of customer rights is out – will it actually improve the passenger experience?
It’s been five decades since the year “Santa never made it into Darwin”, when Cyclone Tracy devastated the Northern Territory capital in the wee hours of Christmas morning 1974.
In the wake of the disaster, the city – and all of Australia – pulled together to make sure its 40,000 people could safely rebuild.
This included the nation’s aviation industry, with Darwin Airport becoming a vital lifeline as airlines and the RAAF brought much-needed people and supplies to and from the Top End in one of the biggest airlifts in Australian history.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake Nelson talks to Paul Boyce, who was TAA’s Darwin manager when the cyclone hit in 1974, for his firsthand account of the disaster – and what came next.
Twelve months is a long time in aviation, and 2024 has been longer than most – not least because of the ignominious collapse of two domestic airlines, Rex and Bonza, which a year ago had seemed in far better shape than they actually were.
Of course, these weren’t the only major developments, with Qatar and Virgin announcing a big new tie-up, the government releasing its highly-anticipated Aviation White Paper, and supply chain issues continuing to squeeze aircraft production.
In this final regular Australian Aviation Podcast for 2024, Adam and Jake break down the biggest stories of the year and look ahead to 2025.
Plus, speculation abounds that the government might buy out the biggest share of Rex’s debt – but would it get its money’s worth?
A few months after the government’s Aviation White Paper promised action on disability access in airports and planes, a new advocacy campaign is calling for faster change in the industry.
Led by disability rights spokesperson Shane Hryhorec, the campaign says there are significant systemic problems around access that are leaving disabled passengers at risk of humiliation or injury, and that people with disabilities should get a seat at the table to push for improvements.
Adam and Jake unpack the issue and ask whether the industry – and government – are doing enough to make sure disabled passengers can travel safely and comfortably.
Plus, airports make the jump to 100 per cent renewable energy, the problem with Qantas’ new Christmas livery, and from Florida with love – will Sydney Airport’s “woman with the golden gun” fly another day?
Virgin Australia’s tie-up with Qatar Airways is gathering steam, with the ACCC giving interim approval to sell tickets on 28 weekly wet-leased services to Doha, while the airline has officially applied to the IASC for all the available capacity.
There may be turbulence ahead, however, with the influential Transport Workers’ Union hinting it might take back its support for the deal if ex-Qantas executive Paul Jones – who played a part in the illegal outsourcing scandal – is tapped to replace Jayne Hrdlicka as CEO.
Adam and Jake go over the latest news, including which airports will be first to see Virgin’s Doha flights if the deal goes ahead.
Plus, calls are growing for Qantas to bring back international flights from Adelaide – but is the juice worth the squeeze for the Flying Kangaroo?
Think your airfares are bad? Spare a thought for the people of Darwin, who according to a recent ABC Stateline report, are having to pay thousands of dollars – even months in advance – for an interstate flight. Both Qantas Group and Virgin have denied any accusations of price gouging, with Qantas blaming various regional and seasonal factors while Virgin is pointing the finger squarely at Darwin Airport and its high fees – but are they right? Adam and Jake take a look at the situation up north and whether a bit more competition could cool down prices in the tropical Top End. Plus, who won this month’s coveted Huey Award for reliability – and is it better to delay a flight than cancel it?
It’s official – after more than 10 years codesharing with Virgin Australia, Etihad has called it quits, announcing the tie-up will end next June irrespective (it seems) of whether the exclusivity arrangement between Virgin and Qatar Airways is approved. With codesharing on Singapore Airlines services beyond Asia also looking likely to get the chop – but not Velocity frequent flyer benefits on those same services – what will this mean for passengers? Adam and Jake try to unpick the details and ask whether the exclusive code-sharing arrangement needs to be restricted. Plus, with regional airports owed millions after Rex went into administration, and rivals rebuking the government’s bailout, is it time to let the airline go?
It’s been three-and-a-half months since Rex went into administration, and while the planes are still flying, so far the administrators have yet to find a buyer for its regional turboprop operations despite securing a deal to sell off the profitable aeromedical wing Pel-Air.
Enter the federal government, which has extended its support for the airline to the tune of $80 million in financing, which the administrator has indicated it wants to use to keep the lights on until at least mid-2025 while growing the operational fleet.
Adam and Jake discuss whether this latest effort from the government is likely to bear fruit, and what it might mean for Rex’s regional rivals.
Plus, Qantas objects to Virgin’s wet-leasing deal with Qatar – but does the Flying Kangaroo have a leg to hop on?
It’s the book that’s sent shockwaves through the aviation world: The Chairman’s Lounge: The Inside Story of How Qantas Sold Us Out, a deep dive into the Alan Joyce era and how Qantas went from one of the most trusted brands in the country to one of the least. Covering the decisions made during COVID-19 – including the illegal outsourcing of ground handlers and the controversial “flight credits” scheme – as well as the perception of undue influence on politics, failures in customer service, and other topics, author Joe Aston lays out the case against Joyce in a book that has put a national spotlight on aviation. In this Australian Aviation podcast, Jake Nelson speaks to Aston about the revelations in his book, his verdict on Joyce as a whole, and whether he believes new CEO Vanessa Hudson can right the ship.
Alan Joyce may be gone, but his ghost continues to haunt the halls of Qantas HQ at Mascot, with new chairman John Mullen saying at last week’s AGM that the Flying Kangaroo “might well have not survived” COVID-19 without the colourful former CEO and ex-chairman Richard Goyder.
His remarks came, however, as a new book from former columnist for The Australian Financial Review, Joe Aston, gave Joyce a good kicking, calling him “increasingly autocratic” and arguing that Qantas “sold [Australia] out”. At the same time, the notorious “Chairman’s Lounge” is in the spotlight again amid fresh controversy over the Prime Minister’s perceived cosy relationship with the airline.
On this week’s episode, Adam and Jake discuss what happened at the AGM and whether politicians should think twice about accepting the invitation to the Chairman’s Lounge. Plus, Virgin Australia’s deal with Qatar is threatening to kneecap codeshare partner Etihad – where will the UAE carrier go if its biggest Australian partnership is axed?
It’s BITRE season again, and while domestic aviation still lags the long-term averages, there’s one figure where the industry is unexpectedly ahead: in a rare showing, cancellations for September were below the long-term average even as on-time performance continued to struggle.
Meanwhile, in another mixed-bag month for the major airlines, which was ultimately the most reliable – and what were some of the other surprises?
Adam and Jake reveal this month’s winner of the newly-christened Huey Award (as well as why it’s called the Huey Award).
Plus, is Rex’s 30-year-old Saab fleet putting it in danger of going the same way as Bonza?
Angela Garvey recently won the Excellence Award at our Australian Aviation Summit, the title we grant to the overall winner from our nine individual categories. However, she is best known for ‘Navigating Aviation’, a confidential counselling and support service she started following a fatal plane crash in her skydiving business in 2006. More recently, she launched a mental health survey aimed at current and former employees working in the general aviation sector. Here, she speaks to host Adam Thorn at this week's Safeskies Conference in Canberra.
Following the publication of the Aviation White Paper, Transport Minister Catherine King has introduced Sydney slot reform legislation to Parliament.
The amendments make up a number of changes to procedures at Australia’s most important airport, but how much of a difference will they make?
This week, Adam and Jake discuss the latest developments, while also introducing a new member to the team.
Plus, with Rex still struggling to find a buyer, should the government step in?
It’s been a big news week for the two major domestic airlines, with Virgin confirming long-held speculation that Qatar Airways is looking to take a 25 per cent stake (and announcing wet-leased flights to Doha), while Qantas tries to resolve engineering strikes as it increases its international capacity and launches a slick new North American ad campaign. Rex couldn’t escape the headlines either – on the ABC’s Four Corners, chairman John Sharp revealed it had tried to sell its beleaguered domestic jet arm to Virgin before it collapsed; meanwhile, no “obvious” buyers have emerged for its regional operations, according to one source. Adam and Jake digest the week’s news and what it all means for the airlines and their passengers. Plus, Air New Zealand last week briefly had the best flight deals in the skies – but were trans-Tasman flights for under $10 too good to be true?
Between Qantas and Jetstar, Qantas Group is undoubtedly the biggest name in Australia’s skies, with Virgin Australia a fairly distant second – which has led some, including opposition transport spokesperson Bridget McKenzie, to call for its break-up.
In a recent poll, almost half of those surveyed thought Qantas should be made to sell its low-cost arm and an overwhelming majority wanted more competition in domestic aviation – but could, and should, it happen?
Adam and Jake examine the arguments and ask if there’s any way for a new player to break into the crowded domestic market.
Plus, the return of the “sky kittens” – will changes to parallel runway operations at Brisbane to route more flights over the water help keep “purring” over residential areas to a minimum?
It’s been almost two months since Rex collapsed into administration and scrapped its domestic jet services, and the latest BITRE data shows that airfares – both sale prices and standard economy seats – have seen a sharp increase. With the Qantas-Virgin duopoly once again ruling Australia’s skies, how much of this increase can be attributed to loss of competition versus normal seasonal factors? Adam and Jake look at the figures and what the experts are saying. Plus, Embraer says it could have more than 200 E-Jets in Australia by the end of this decade – could this be the key to a regional jet renaissance?
Amanda Harrison attempted to recreate the first solo flight by a woman from England to Australia in 1930.
That original journey was undertaken by the pioneering Amy Johnson in a Gipsy Moth, so Harrison, attempting to be as true to the challenge as possible, undertook hers in a 1942 Tiger Moth.
Unfortunately, she had to abandon her mission due to airspace restrictions in 2019, but she did have some adventures on the way.
In this special podcast, Harrison talks to host Adam Thorn about her incredible flight – and what’s next.
It’s results season, and Qantas, Air New Zealand and Alliance have all posted profits – though the narrative around them is very different. Qantas is slightly down on last year, but still above pre-COVID profits, while Air New Zealand has seen its own profit slashed in half due to economic headwinds – and while Alliance posted the smallest profit in absolute terms, the record high has it celebrating a successful year. Adam and Jake cut through the spin and discuss what the year’s results say about how the airlines are really doing. Plus, there’s been a lot of buzz in recent weeks about “Koala Airlines” – but are we genuinely going to see a new domestic carrier any time soon?
It’s been a long time coming, and at last, this week saw the release of the federal government’s Aviation White Paper.
The government has pushed consumer protections to the forefront of its agenda, with a new independent ombudsman to take over from the industry-funded Airline Customer Advocate, and a Charter of Customer Rights on the horizon.
Adam and Jake dig into some of the white paper’s provisions and examine what they might mean for the sector.
Plus, as the Rex administration saga rolls on, what has the government been doing to keep the beleaguered airline’s regional services afloat – and could it be doing more?
Joel Neeb is a former F-15 pilot who flew thousands of missions for the US Air Force, including escorting Air Force One and patrolling the skies in the days after 9/11. Rising to become lieutenant colonel, he trained hundreds of others to do the same as chief instructor pilot. More impressively, after he left the military, he became a hugely successful business leader. In this special episode, Neeb, visiting Sydney from the US, talks through his amazing career and the secret sauce that makes the best fighter pilots.
Later this month, we will host our first Australian Aviation Summit in partnership with Leidos Australia.
The event will tackle the biggest topics in the industry, including how the sector can begin to fix its chronic talent shortage.
In this special episode, Jesse Young, head of flight operations at Leidos, and Lea Vesic, CEO of RMIT’s Aviation Academy, talk candidly about what it will take to build and retain our future workforce.
They examine its causes, effects and what more needs to be done to solve this ongoing challenge. Plus, they also discuss their pioneering collaboration that will see Leidos provide $120,000 worth of scholarship funding to final-year students at RMIT.
With Bonza gone and Rex fighting for its life in voluntary administration, the spotlight has once again turned to an old argument: that slot allocation at Sydney Airport unfairly advantages the major players. As the federal government looks to put Sydney slot management out to tender, do Qantas and Virgin really have their thumbs on the scales, as former ACCC chair Rod Sims has suggested? Adam and Jake look at the arguments on each side and the other factors that played into Bonza and Rex’s respective failures. Plus, Boeing appoints an engineer as its new CEO – is this a positive sign for the planemaker’s culture, or will the same old failures continue?
In a matter of months, a second Australian airline has gone into voluntary administration: this time it’s Rex, whose ambitions of challenging Qantas and Virgin on capital city flights with 737-800s have dramatically hit the rocks. But with its regional Saab 340B flights still running, and the federal government signalling it doesn’t want to see Rex fail, there’s still plenty of hope that the airline won’t completely go the way of Bonza – or, for that matter, its predecessor Ansett. Adam and Jake discuss what went wrong at Rex, the possible paths forward, and whether something needs to be done about the dominance of the Qantas-Virgin duopoly. Plus, Air New Zealand scraps its 2030 sustainability target – are dreams of a greener sky in danger?
In one of the most dramatic tech outages in history, a botched update by cyber security company CrowdStrike last Friday crippled computers around the world – and Australia’s aviation sector did not escape unscathed.
Airlines were left unable to check in customers and their baggage, airports were swamped with passengers on delayed and cancelled flights, and planes were grounded across the country, with Jetstar in particular not back to normal until early Saturday morning.
Adam and Jake look at what went wrong and whether aviation has put too many of its eggs into one cyber security basket.
Plus, as major east coast gateways still lag behind pre-pandemic passenger levels, what’s still holding Australia’s domestic aviation recovery back?
With the ashes yet cooling on Bonza’s funeral pyre, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson made an eyebrow-raising suggestion at the Flying Kangaroo’s Perth–Paris launch last week: that Australia can’t sustain more than, say, three major domestic airline groups (coincidentally, the number it has now).
As the country reacquaints itself with the old familiar Qantas–Virgin equilibrium – and as Rex continues its push to disrupt the duopoly – will Hudson be vindicated, or will another challenger eventually prove her wrong?
Adam and Jake examine the state of play and whether Bonza is truly just another data point against airline competition in Australia.
Plus, Rex’s new leadership faces a boardroom coup from the old boss, Melbourne Airport waves the white flag on the long-overdue rail link, and Emirates thumbs its nose at “too clever by half” safety videos.
Australian Aviation is gearing up to host our third annual awards next month in association with UNSW and its School of Aviation.
The university recently hosted a panel examining sustainability in the sector, featuring some of the most influential figures in the industry.
The panel included Rex’s Ron Bartsch, Qantas’ Harry Jobberns and Jet Zero’s Ed Mason.
In this episode, we let you listen in to the debate.
In the end, it was all but inevitable – after losing its planes, cancelling its flights, sacking its staff and failing to find a buyer, Bonza is no more, with creditors making the decision to wind up the airline and put an end to what were once lofty dreams of bringing low-cost airfares to destinations that had never seen them before.
As its purple tails join those of Ansett, Tigerair, Compass and hundreds of others on the Australian aviation ash heap, what will become of Bonza’s former routes? Should we expect to see more rivals like Jetstar step in to pick up where it left off?
Adam and Jake discuss the fallout from, and reasons for, Bonza’s demise.
Plus, who will be the next CEO of Virgin Australia? Could a controversial codeshare partner step in to take a stake in our second biggest airline group?
As Bonza’s administrator looks set to finally close the curtain on the stricken airline, a new YouGov survey has revealed 50 per cent of Australians believe the government should step in and back low-cost airlines in the name of affordability and consumer choice.
With more than 300 airlines reportedly having gone under in Australia over the last century, is it time for Canberra to intervene and get more tails in the skies?
Adam, Jake and Ben look at the case for more government support and how it might manifest.
Plus, as on-time performance and cancellations continue to improve, who came out on top in the May domestic reliability stakes?
Despite Virgin attracting some major allies in its fight for more capacity to Bali, ultimately Jetstar looks to have prevailed, with the IASC awarding Qantas Group the coveted seats.
So what tipped the scales in Jetstar’s favour – and why did Virgin fall short?
Adam and Jake look at the decision and what it means for Bali-bound travellers.
Plus, what caused a terrifying ride for Virgin passengers out of Queenstown this week?
It wasn’t the news more than 300 Bonza employees wanted to hear – but after a buyer for the grounded carrier failed to materialise, administrator Hall Chadwick has sacked all staff and cancelled every future flight.
With Bonza now seeming to be running on borrowed time, is there now any hope for a miracle rescue or a silver lining for hundreds of dedicated staff members now out of a job?
Adam and Jake examine the bad news and ask what’s next for Bonza, its erstwhile staff – and its administrator.
Plus, Rex embarks on a major leadership shake-up, putting a local CEO in charge for the first time – so who is the Aussie set to lead Australia’s third largest airline group?
It was meant to be the crowning achievement of the budding British airship industry: R101, a majestic “ocean liner of the skies” that would ferry passengers all across the world in style and comfort.
Yet on its maiden international flight in October 1930, the dreams of an empire went up in flames as R101 crashed and exploded in a field in the north of France. On board was one Australian VIP: William Palstra, a key figure in the early days of the RAAF.
The tragic demise of R101 with all but six hands led to the UK pulling out of the airship arena – and left an indelible mark on Palstra’s family for generations afterwards.
On this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Cecilia Thornton, author of Airship of Dreams: The Man Who Rode the Titanic of the Skies, talks to Jake Nelson about the disaster that claimed her grandfather’s life and spelled the end of the British airship age.
Will Bonza fly again? That’s the question that has been on the mind of the aviation sector ever since the low-cost carrier went into voluntary administration at the end of April, with its planes seized and its employees stood down without notice. Administrator Hall Chadwick certainly believes it can get Bonza back in the skies, winning another two months to find a buyer for the airline with the argument that doing so would be better for creditors than winding it up – though that’s cold comfort for employees who will now be left without pay until at least the end of July. On location at the 2024 Australian Space Summit, Adam and Jake examine the facts as they stand and discuss whether the administrators’ optimism is well-placed. Plus, Rex heads for the Golden West – and takes NJE’s E190s along for the ride. Could Australia see more E-Jets fly between capital cities?
For 19 months, Qantas reigned as Australia’s most reliable airline group – but no more, with Virgin Australia last month knocking the Flying Kangaroo off its perch in a clean sweep of on-time arrivals, on-time departures and cancellations. With both major domestic airline groups now at or approaching long-term averages for reliability, will the trend hold, or could the “bad old days” of 2022 make a comeback? Adam, Jake and Ben crunch the numbers and cross their fingers that the era of domestic airline havoc is finally behind us. Plus, frustration abounds for Bonza staff still stuck in a holding pattern as administrators fight to save the airline – will stood-down employees get what they’re owed?
Richard (Rick) Garner is a non-executive director on the board of Qantas Superannuation and an A330 pilot. He’s also, incredibly, an award-winning mortgage broker who worked in financial services and now runs his own firm, Crew Financial. In this crossover podcast with Australian Aviation’s sister podcast brand The Adviser, Rick discusses his love of flying – and how he juggles so many different jobs.
A week after Bonza’s fleet was abruptly seized in a move that sent shockwaves through the Australian aviation sector, the airline is still yet to get back in the air as its administrator fights to save it.
With a big question mark over the future of its planes, and all eyes turning to its parent company 777 Partners, who is to blame for Bonza’s predicament, and what’s next for the airline that promised to be “Here for Allstralia”?
Adam and Jake discuss whether there’s any hope for the purple tails to return to the skies, and examine the conventional wisdom around Bonza’s collapse.
Plus, Qantas cuts a deal with the ACCC on the “ghost flights” case – is this a savvy move from new CEO Vanessa Hudson to jettison old baggage?
It was as sudden as it was brutal: grounded planes, stranded passengers, and chaos across the east coast as Bonza suspended its services without warning.
With reports that its entire fleet had been repossessed in the dead of night, emergency talks about the ongoing viability of the business ended in Bonza entering voluntary administration – so what went wrong?
In this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, recorded before the voluntary administration was announced, Adam and Jake discuss the shock collapse of Bonza and what might be next for the stricken low-cost carrier.
Plus, Australia’s wet-leasing market gets bigger as the new owner of Skytrans lays out its plans to bring a fleet of A319s and other A320-family aircraft into Australia.
Bonza has come out swinging after reports in The Australian Financial Review that consultant KordaMentha had been called in to advise the airline.
In one of the more blunt denials we’ve seen, the low-cost carrier’s CEO, Tim Jordan, has insisted KordaMentha “has not been appointed as financial advisors to Bonza, or in any other capacity” – so what’s the real story?
Adam, Jake and Ben discuss the article and Bonza’s forceful response, as well as the upcoming route changes from its Gold Coast base.
Plus, Qantas’ new chairman steps into the job earlier than expected – and are the major airlines finally getting back to pre-COVID reliability?
With tensions flaring between Israel and Iran, Qantas has paused its non-stop Perth–London services, adding a new stop in Singapore on the northbound journey. Given the difficulties of avoiding Iranian airspace between Perth and London while staying within the safe range of a 787-9 Dreamliner, is the Flying Kangaroo hurting for the lack of its new A350-1000 fleet? Adam and Jake look at the implications for Qantas, including its future services from Perth to Rome and Paris. Plus, a big week for airport infrastructure aficionados, with builds at Western Sydney, Melbourne and Newcastle all getting a turn in the spotlight.
Qantas has unveiled a massive shake-up to its frequent flyer program, adding 20 million new seats per year. The “Classic Plus” seats will cost more than the existing 5 million annual “Classic Rewards” seats, but will be more reliably available to passengers looking to spend their hard-earned frequent flyer points. Adam and Jake discuss the pros and cons of the new scheme, and whether it will endear the Flying Kangaroo to its loyalty customers. Plus, just when you thought it was safe to go back to Whyalla, the “Rexit” saga takes a dramatic new twist…
No sooner have the Network Aviation strikes in WA ended than Airservices Australia becomes the next big name in the sector to face industrial action, as aviation rescue firefighters plan a work stoppage for 15 April and air traffic controllers apply for a strike vote. Amid arguments over “leaked documents”, pay rises, and passenger safety, what impact will the industrial action have on the Easter school holidays? Adam and Jake take a look at both sides of the stoush and what might happen next. Plus, dodgy used plane dealers, paid armrest reservations, luxury towers with their own airports, and on-board dating apps – did you get tricked this April Fool’s Day?
Heads are continuing to roll at Boeing, with the CEO and chairman both announcing their retirement by the end of the year.
It’s the latest fallout in the ongoing turmoil stemming from the mid-air blowout on board an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 in January – but will even these senior figures falling on their swords prove to be too little, too late?
Adam, Jake and Ben talk about how the crisis at Boeing came about and how the venerable planemaker might pull out of its dive.
Plus, an engine failure leads to a nervous descent for passengers on Qantas’ oldest A330, the UK’s defence minister takes a joyride courtesy of the RAAF, and will Jetstar’s 20th-anniversary ad campaign win hearts or scorn?
In a bid to boost Air Force recruitment, Defence has launched a cinematic new advertising campaign spruiking all the different roles available in the RAAF.
Featuring footage of (and shot in) actual RAAF aircraft, the ad blitz aims to get more young people interested in an Air Force career – but will it work?
Adam and Jake discuss whether the “Up There” campaign could help turn around the RAAF’s ongoing talent shortage.
Plus, Boeing’s ongoing travails give a nasty knock to Virgin’s fleet renewal schedule – and should Bonza consider investing in smaller planes?
Pet-loving passengers rejoice – Virgin Australia is allowing literal ‘sky kittens’ on its planes, with small dogs and cats soon to be allowed in the cabin on select domestic flights. Naturally, there are caveats, of course: pets will need to be confined to approved carriers stored under the seat in front, and will be limited to certain rows, so your beloved pooch or pussycat won’t be running around the cabin or nestling in your lap. Adam and Jake discuss whether this is a good idea – or whether the airline will soon be dogged by catastrophe. Plus, after a terrifying plunge for LATAM passengers over the Tasman Sea, will Boeing’s popular 787 Dreamliner join the beleaguered 737 MAX in the sin bin?
This week, Bonza quietly revealed its Canadian aircraft would be gaining their Australian passports, switching from a wet to dry lease agreement.
Adam and Jake discuss what this means for the airline’s future, and whether it could eventually fly from Sydney to Melbourne.
Plus, Jetstar staff have got a fashion makeover in time for the new season. But is the orange blazer tasteful or tactless?
Last week, Qantas released another set of impressive financial results that showed the airline is continuing its historic performance post-pandemic. But buried deep down was the news that the first A350 set to fly Project Sunrise direct flights from New York to Sydney was set to be delayed by six months. This episode, Jake and Adam discuss what it means for the Flying Kangaroo and whether this is just the start of more delays to badly needed new aircraft. Plus, are new reports that Jayne Hrdlicka was forced out of Virgin true? And if so, did owner Bain Capital make the right call?
This week, Virgin Australia’s CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, shocked the industry by stepping down as the airline’s CEO. But has she left on a high, or is there more to the departure than meets the eye? This week, Adam and Jake discuss the latest and speculate on who could take the top job. Plus, the pair discuss never-ending strikes at Qantas and the return of the ACCC’s quarterly reports on aviation.
Babcock Australasia and Ambulance Victoria perform vital work in the state, serving 5.5 million people and retrieving or treating 6,000 patients a year – many of them in critical condition. This week, we speak to two of Babcock’s aviation personnel working on the front line, senior base pilot Heath Mastin and senior aircrew officer Ryan Hurrell. The pair discuss how the team in the air works together in pressurised situations, the types of missions they respond to and where their passion for aviation came from.
Former fighter pilot Christian “Boo” Boucousis was one of the original hosts of the Australian Aviation Podcast when it launched in 2020.
Now he’s back from his new home of Miami, Florida, to talk about how the industry has changed from the dark days of the pandemic.
He tells host Adam Thorn why the enhanced opportunities to fly in the US don’t compare to the perfect Aussie lifestyle and what air forces worldwide need to do to retain their pilots.
Plus, the pair discuss Boeing’s unending nightmare with its MAX – and what they can do to fix it.
This week, Qantas unveiled a flash new safety video that took in destinations as varied as Litchfield National Park and Lapland. The problem is not one bit of it was filmed in an aircraft. This week, the team discuss whether it’s too smart for its own good, endangering safety, or whether the Flying Kangaroo’s critics are more interested in holding a grudge. Plus, will Western Sydney Airport finally break the monopoly of monopoly airports and bring competition to the country’s domestic aviation sector?
The release of the December BITRE data for on-time domestic performance has seen carriers such as Rex and Qantas rush to claim victory over their rivals. But with on-time performance across the board still well below the long-term average – plus airfares still too high – should major airlines really be celebrating? Adam and Jake crunch the numbers, including a horror month for Bonza in the wake of its Gold Coast nightmare. Plus, Sydney Airport draws a line under COVID-19, Virgin receives an unexpected ally in the battle for Bali, and Australian Aviation branches out into buses.
So much for New Year’s resolutions. As we enter 2024, Virgin and Qantas are attacking each other in a bid to operate lucrative flights to Bali.
Virgin says Qantas relies too heavily on overseas aircrew, while Qantas says Virgin charges too much. Who are we to believe?
In this episode, Adam and Jake discuss the latest.
Plus, with flights at record numbers, is the COVID-19 crisis finally over?
Over the Christmas holidays, two major international aviation stories got Australians talking, with radically different impacts for planemakers.
Airbus was hailed for its innovative aircraft design after everybody onboard an exploding A350 miraculously escaped unharmed.
However, Boeing faced another backlash after a door on an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 blew out mid-flight. It came after the same aircraft type was involved in two fatal crashes and Boeing was fined billions.
In this episode, Adam and Jake talk about the latest developments and discuss what impact it will have on the local sector.
It’s been an unpleasant couple for weeks for Bonza, the new kid on the Australian aviation block, with mass cancellations of its new Gold Coast routes while it waits for CASA to clear its wet-lease operations with Flair.
With customers fuming and damage control efforts underway, whose fault is the Gold Coast debacle, and what could have been done differently?
In the last Australian Aviation podcast for the year, Adam and Jake discuss the fallout and the optics for Bonza, and how its rivals are capitalising on its misfortune.
Plus, Richard Branson graces Australia with his august presence once again, Qantas gears up for a massive holiday peak, Australia’s international recovery continues to race towards 100 per cent, and we thank the people who made our podcasts possible this year.
In November, UNSW Aviation held a panel to discuss the government’s aviation white paper, which will create a long-term strategy for the industry for the next three decades. The session featured a collection of senior figures who gave a diverse range of views, including those who are pilots, lawyers, executives and policy experts. It was chaired by Australian Aviation’s Adam Thorn. In this special podcast, we’re giving our audience the chance to listen to the full debate.
In a spectacular proof of concept, Virgin Atlantic has flown the world’s first commercial flight – from London to New York – powered entirely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) derived from waste fats and plant sugars.
At a time when standards dictate a maximum of 50 per cent SAF blend, will Virgin Atlantic’s argument of “if you make it, we’ll fly it” spur further action from industry and governments?
Jake and Adam discuss the implications of the flight and how it could be a major step on the road to net zero.
Plus, Mildura Airport repairs its runway almost as fast as the lightning that struck it, Virgin boosts its 737 MAX 8 order, Airservices reveals why there’s no “magic number” for ATC staffing, and do Australian air passengers need a “bill of rights”?
In the wake of Alan Joyce’s exit from the Flying Kangaroo, aviation luminary Peter Harbison has released Alan Joyce and Qantas: The Trials and Transformation of an Australian Icon. The book charts the former CEO’s life and career, from his youth in Ireland through to his defection from Ansett to Qantas, his role in the launch of Jetstar, and his turbulent 15 years as CEO of Australia’s biggest airline group. In this exclusive interview, Jake Nelson talks with Harbison about his book, as well as his impressions of Alan Joyce’s successes, failures and legacy. Plus, Harbison offers his insights on the lessons new Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson should take from the Joyce era, and what the rise of Rex and Bonza might mean for the Qantas-Virgin duopoly.
First Alan Joyce, now this – Australian Aviation’s Chris Fenton is leaving us. In his (sort of) final episode, the team farewells the man who has held almost every job in aviation. But before he goes, Adam, Jake and Chris discuss the week’s biggest stories, including Virgin’s deteriorating relationship with the unions and the ongoing row over single-pilot flights. Plus, how will Canadian crew working for Bonza cope with the Goldie’s scorching summer?
It’s been another rough few weeks for Qantas, with the public unimpressed by the airline’s claim that it doesn’t sell tickets for specific flights but “bundles of contractual rights”. With the Flying Kangaroo already on the nose for allegedly selling more than 8,000 tickets to already-cancelled flights, will the optics of that defence do more harm than good? Jake and Chris discuss the ongoing headaches for Qantas, which have not been helped by shareholder backlash at an often rancorous 2023 AGM. Plus, Australia’s first female airline pilot Deborah Lawrie notches another win over the ghost of Reg Ansett, and is Rex wrong to complain about bigger airlines “pillaging” its pilots?
Earlier this year, UNSW Aviation held a special panel at the university, examining how a just culture can be improved to facilitate advances in aviation safety.
The session featured a panel of industry experts who gave a diverse range of views, including figures from CASA, Qantas and the Australian and International Air Pilots Association.
It was chaired by UNSW School of Aviation’s Head of School, Brett Molesworth – a man with a unique background as both a pilot and professor in human factors.
In this special podcast, we’re giving our audience the chance to listen to the full debate.
This week, new CEO Vanessa Hudson made her first big call as she unwound Qantas’ agreement to buy Alliance.
That deal, of course, was led by her predecessor, Alan Joyce.
Chris, Jake and Adam discuss whether this is the start of a new, more diplomatic era for the Flying Kangaroo.
Plus, Bonza CEO Tim Jordan swaps the airport for the train station as he rages against high airfares.
A pair of high-profile departures at the Flying Kangaroo is seeing chairman Richard Goyder and Qantas Loyalty CEO Olivia Wirth head for the exits. But with no firm departure date, is Goyder taking too long to allow for a true renewal at the top of Qantas? Jake and Chris discuss Goyder’s ‘long goodbye’ and whether it will hamper new CEO Vanessa Hudson’s efforts for a fresh start. Plus, the Transport Minister emphatically says no to reviewing her Qatar Airways decision, and is there a possible breakthrough in the battle over Brisbane’s sky kittens?
Andrew Charlton is the managing director of Aviation Advocacy, a consultancy firm based in Switzerland.
His CV includes stints as chief legal officer at Qantas before heading government affairs for the IATA and working as a lecturer in airport economics, management and policy.
In this special episode in partnership with UNSW Aviation, Charlton discusses creating a new course for the School of Aviation to tackle how aviation policy is adapting to a rapidly changing industry.
Plus, he talks about the most significant policy challenges currently, including airport slot rules and the Qatar flights controversy.
Last week, Qantas’s new CEO and chairman were summoned to attend a Senate inquiry into the airline’s recent performance.
But how did the Flying Kangaroo do in the face of brutal barbs from the posturing inquisitors?
Adam and Chris discuss the fallout and who they believe came out on top.
Plus, how good is Rex’s new frequent flyer scheme? Australian Aviation signs up to find out.
New Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson had been conspicuous by her absence since taking the top job in aviation.
However, last Friday, she recorded a video message to consumers, apologising for the Flying Kangaroo’s performance and pledging to improve the situation.
Adam, Chris and Jake discuss how well she came across and whether her intervention will help stop the endless waves of bad publicity.
Plus, with more sales figures in, has Bonza really proved its doubters wrong?
Last week, Qantas lost its High Court appeal over the outsourcing of around 1,700 ground workers during the pandemic. The decision means the airline is facing a hefty compensation bill – and yet more bad publicity. Adam, Chris and Jake discuss the latest and ask how Qantas can say sorry to ex-employees when it fought so hard in court to defend its decision. Plus, what’s going on with Google Wing delivery drones in Canberra?
It’s one week PJ (that’s post-Joyce), but Qantas’s critics don’t seem to be letting up.
Whether it’s the row over Qatar, frequent flyer points, slots, delays or the Chairman’s Lounge, the bad news keeps coming for the Flying Kangaroo.
This week, Jake, Chris and Adam discuss the latest revelations and ask how the airline can stem the tide of bad news.
Plus, they ask, just where has Vanessa Hudson been?
This week, Alan Joyce stepped down as Qantas CEO early, bringing to an end his 15-year spell in aviation’s top job.
It came days after the ACCC revealed it was taking the airline to court over allegations it sold tickets to flights it already cancelled.
But as the vultures circle, was he really that bad a leader? Adam, Jake and Chris reflect on the good, the bad and the ugly.
Plus, with the Australian Aviation Awards over for another year, the team discuss the nominees and winners.
Qantas has confirmed it will order 12 new 787 Dreamliners and 12 Airbus A350s to replace the bulk of its ageing A330 fleet.
The news means outgoing CEO Alan Joyce will leave the company having overseen what is likely the last significant aircraft order for a decade.
But should Joyce have left that announcement to his successor rather than take the plaudits himself? Adam, Chris and Jake discuss.
Plus, what’s going on with the messy love triangle between Qantas, Virgin and Qatar?
This week, both Qantas and Virgin weighed in on Qatar being blocked from adding more flights to Australia’s major airports.
But Virgin CEO Jayne Hrdlicka has skin in the game because her airline is a codeshare partner of Qatar, and, of course, a fellow rival of Qantas.
So what’s going on? And does anyone really have Aussie travellers’ best interests at heart? Adam, Chris and Jake discuss the latest.
Plus, the team talk about the latest initiative to reduce the dulcet purring of aircraft ‘noise’.
Qantas has officially thrown its weight behind the Yes campaign for the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
The Flying Kangaroo has unveiled a new livery for three of its aircraft – a Qantas 737-800, a Jetstar A320, and a QantasLink Dash 8 – featuring the Yes campaign’s logo, saying it has long supported reconciliation and a “fair go”.
But is the national carrier right to take a side in a political discussion with the public split down the middle? Adam and Chris discuss the latest.
Plus, the pair discuss the life and legacy of the fantastic Max Hazelton – the last of aviation’s mavericks.
Air traffic control provider Airservices Australia said it was sorry for the disruption across the skies – on a Friday afternoon.
The statement, significantly, didn’t contain an apology and came after repeated assurances that the organisation did actually have enough staff.
This week, Adam, Chris and Jake discuss and latest and ask whether the apparent mea culpa will calm anger across the industry.
Finally, the podcast welcomes a special guest to review QF1 – and discuss how it compares to British Airways' equivalent business-class service.
Weeks ago, Bonza announced a surprising cut to its network despite only launching in January.
But on Monday, the point-to-point carrier revealed it is setting up a third base in the Gold Coast, from where it will fly to 11 destinations.
Adam, Jake and Chris discuss what this means for Bonza’s strategy and what might be going on with its wet lease agreement.
Plus, the team talk slots (again), Brisbane sky kittens and the Australian Aviation Awards.
This week, Sydney Airport’s CEO told major airlines to use their take-off slots or let other carriers have them as domestic traffic continues to languish.
It comes after the ACCC in June argued that larger airlines “can exploit” slot rules to stifle competition from smaller carriers, with both Bonza and Rex claiming the system is putting them at a severe disadvantage.
Adam, Jake and Chris discuss the latest as take-off technicalities become national news.
Plus, after another month of delays, is air traffic control really understaffed? Who’s to blame?
Last week, Bonza said it would axe five of its 27 routes just months after their launch in a move the airline said would reduce cancellations across its network.
Chief customer officer Carly Povey admitted to Australian Aviation the decision to cut back services had been made earlier than Bonza would have liked and added the company was compelled to take out routes where there wasn’t “sustainable demand at present”.
Does this mean the end of Bonza’s dream to fly point-to-point routes, cutting out capital cities? Or is this just a sensible restructuring of its network? Adam, Chris and Jake discuss.
Plus, the team put the boot into a bizarre union negotiation, discuss the latest chapter in the row over slot rules and ask what’s the solution to the staffing issues at air traffic control.
Australia’s biggest pilots’ union last week claimed air traffic control staffing issues are making skies less safe for pilots and passengers.
The Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP) has told Australian Aviation that its members have encountered “chronic” and “systemic” staffing problems at Airservices dating back to before the COVID-19 pandemic.
It comes after reports emerged earlier this year that there were 340 instances of “uncontrolled airspace” from June to April 2023, with Airservices admitting to “staff availability issues”.
What’s going on? And who’s to blame, if anyone? Adam, Chris and Jake navigate the PR spin to explain.
This week, Bonza has blamed the industry’s ongoing talent shortage for a rash of cancellations that have left passengers stranded.
They weren’t the only ones, with controversy surrounding whether or not Australia has enough air traffic controllers following delays and cancellations affecting NSW’s school holiday getaway.
This week, Adam, Chris and Jake ask what’s going wrong and what can be done to fix it.
Plus, Air New Zealand jumps in to help spurned Taylor Swift fans reach the singer’s concert in Australia.
To its detractors, the noise from overhead aircraft will hugely affect the lives of hundreds of thousands of residents, but for avgeeks, living under the flight path is a privilege.
In this episode, Adam, Chris and Jake discuss whether we should care about the ‘purring’ of an aircraft overhead.
The team also chat about whether airlines handled COVID-19 credits ethically, a massive investment in sustainable fuel and how exactly you pronounce Virgin’s new MAX, ‘Monkey Mia’.
Qantas has unveiled the first photos of the unique stretching area located on its Project Sunrise A350-1000s that will fly for up to 20 hours.
The ‘Wellbeing Zone’, accessible to all passengers, will feature “sculpted wall panels” and “integrated stretch handles” as well as a guided on-screen exercise program.
But is it a smart solution to surviving an ultra-long-haul flight or a gimmick that will make little difference? Adam, Chris and Jake discuss.
Also on the episode, Qantas takes on Air New Zealand flying to New York, Perth to Rome gets renewed, and Australian Aviation embraces video.
The Australian Aviation Awards 2023 are on course to be the biggest in our history.
In this episode, Adam, Chris and Jake discuss why you need to take this last chance to enter and share their tips for becoming a nominee.
Plus, the team discusses the biggest news stories of the week, including the latest on noise for locals near Brisbane Airport, WSI’s first airlines and hydrogen planes in Queensland.
Finally, with Qantas overhauling its uniform policy, was it ever a good idea to make women working as cabin crew wear high heels on long-haul flights?
Aeromedical charity CareFlight, which delivers aeromedical services in urban, regional, and remote areas around Australia, has partnered with AMSL Aero on a new electric VTOL air ambulance – the Vertiia. CEO Mick Frewen talks with Australian Aviation’s Jake Nelson on how the Vertiia will be added to CareFlight’s fleet and what it means for aeromedical services in the future.
This week, the ACCC claimed airlines “can exploit” the rules around airport slots – effectively hoarding the best take-off times to indefinitely block out rivals.
But what on earth are the rules, and why have they proved so controversial?
In this episode, Adam, Chris and Jake discuss whether the system is helping maintain the duopoly of Qantas and Virgin.
Does the industry have room for more major players?
Four months after its launch, low-cost carrier Bonza has wrapped up its initial 27-route network rollout and is now eyeing future growth.
CEO Tim Jordan joins us again on the Australian Aviation podcast to discuss Bonza’s early successes, the challenges of launching a new domestic airline in today’s environment and what might be in store for Bonza as it looks beyond the eastern seaboard – potentially including new bases, new routes, and new aircraft.
With aviation continuing to emerge from the COVID-19 slump, YouTubers like Jeb Brooks of GreenerGrass.com are making a living bringing the flying experience – especially business and first-class travel – to people who may never sit in the pointy end of the plane themselves. Jeb tells Jake Nelson how he’s made a thriving career out of sharing “the miracle of flight” with almost 600,000 subscribers around the world – and why he almost enjoys flying economy even more than the expensive seats.
As drone technology advances by leaps and bounds, Sydney-based drone training company Aviassist has brought another new innovation to Australian shores, with the country’s first AI-operated drone flight recently taking place on Goat Island in Sydney Harbour. In this episode, Aviassist’s Ross Anderson talks to Jake Nelson about the Skydio Dock technology that made it possible, as well as the potential applications for AI drones as they become more widespread.
Air New Zealand has finally released more details around its much-hyped Skynest. This week, Adam, Chris and Jake discuss whether the bunk bed design is a revolution or PR stunt. Plus, the team discusses reports we’ll soon be flying between London and Sydney in two hours. Can it possibly be worse than 18 hours in economy?
This week, it emerged Alan Joyce’s successor at Qantas, Vanessa Hudson, will be paid significantly less than the airline’s long-serving CEO. In this episode, Adam, Jake and Chris ask whether that’s a blow for industry equality – or still a handsomely-paid chief executive. Plus, the team discusses the latest instalment in the bizarre and confusing battle over FIFO flights.
This week, Qantas CEO Alan Joyce shocked the industry by announcing he was set to step down from his role – in November.
While it was well known he would be leaving, the announcement came far earlier than expected, alongside the news of new chief and current CFO Vanessa Hudson.
This week, Adam, Chris and Jake ask whether the succession plan will work and analyse Joyce’s legacy.
Was he the man who saved, or broke, the Flying Kangaroo?
This week it emerged Melbourne Airport’s decades-talked-about rail link is set to miss its competition date.
It looks like the project will now to open until the next decade, with the state blaming the airport, and the airport pushing back on the government.
In this episode, hosts Adam Thorn, Chris Fenton and Jake Nelson discusses how much longer the city can rely on the SkyBus.
The team also discuss the ‘death’ of the last Qantas A380 in the desert, international capacity returning, and more good news for Bonza.
Dario Valenza is the co-founder of Australian drone company Carbonix.
His extraordinary career saw him create world championship-winning sail boats before taking his know-how into the world of drones.
In this episode, Valenza talks about how the sector has evolved over the last decade, and how flying drones beyond the line of sight could revolutionary for how we lead our lives.
Wing delivery drones are quietly creating a revolution in a select few Australian cities, flying hundreds of thousands of parcels each year. In this episode, the business’ general manager, Simon Rossi, reveals how they are upgrading their processes in a way that could increase that figure to potentially millions of deliveries. Rossi tells host Adam Thorn how the business is closing in on the holy grail of drone delivery – picking up parcels from any individual shop and taking it directly to shoppers. Plus, the pair discuss the creation of an air traffic management solution for a world where traditional and uncrewed aircraft can share the skies together at scale.
Bonza has begun its first services from Melbourne as the airline announces it has already sold 100,000 tickets. On this week’s episode, Adam and Chris discuss Bonza’s chances as the legacy carriers still doubt the airline. Plus, the pair talk more about our stagnating recovery. And will Qantas’ increase in capacity finally bring prices down?
Sydney Airport’s CEO has claimed domestic aviation recovery has been “stagnant” since April last year, with passenger numbers still 17 per cent down compared to pre-pandemic.
In this week’s episode, host Adam Thorn is joined by new team member Chris Fenton to discuss exactly what’s going wrong.
Airlines are claiming the situation is out of their hands, but couldn’t they use their record profits to bring airfares down? And what do frontline staff think of the slowdown that’s left many working more for less?
Finally, Chris discusses our upcoming Australian Aviation Awards, and why you should nominate a friend or colleague to enter.
Air Vice-Marshal Paul Godfrey is a British RAF fighter pilot who rose up the ranks to head the country’s first military Space Command.
In this special interview from the Avalon Airshow, AVM Godfrey tells Adam Thorn how he made the transition from the skies to the stars.
The pair discuss the challenges and opportunities of creating a military space division, why it’s important for the UK and Australia to collaborate, and how satellites will continue to change life on Earth.
Little Wings is a brilliant charity that flies sick children from regional areas into the city for treatment. The service can be life-changing for families who would previously face arduous and stressful journeys. On this week’s show, the organisation’s CEO, Clare Pearson, talks to host Adam Thorn about how it works. For more information and to donate, please visit littlewings.org.au.
Brett Pierson is the president and CEO of Textron Aviation Defense and previously served in the US Navy for 30 years, including being a wing commander and combat pilot.
Textron Aviation is a major player in defence globally and has delivered more than 14,500 aircraft to countries around the world.
In this special episode for AVALON 2023, Pierson talks through Textron Aviation’s recent work across both defence and special missions, as well as how the process works to develop a new aircraft and the company’s presence at the upcoming AVALON Airshow.
He also discusses his extraordinary career that saw him fly more than 80 types of aircraft and train the next generation of US fighter pilots.
Angela Garvey has more than 30 years of aviation industry experience as a commercial pilot, general aviation business owner, aviation safety professional and airport manager.
But a fatal plane crash in her skydiving business in 2006 served as a 'stop moment' in her life.
Years later, she's used her experience to set up 'Navigating Aviation', a confidential counselling and support service tailored for the aviation community and their families.
In this episode, Garvey talks about how the accident changed her life, how she responded to support others, and what the industry can better do to help people in future. To find out more, visit www.navigatingaviation.com
Perhaps no single aircraft has changed Australia more than the 747, which opened up cheap international travel to millions of people. In this week’s show, acclaimed aviation writer Jim Eames talks about his latest book, The Mighty 747, which examines how Boeing’s Jumbo Jet did it. Eames tells host Adam Thorn why the aircraft is held in such affection by the industry, why Aussies are so fascinated with Qantas and whether double-decker aircraft have a future in the post-pandemic world.
After a months-long wait, Bonza this month finally received its crucial licence to fly from CASA.
Now, the airline’s CEO, Tim Jordan, tells host Adam Thorn how the business navigated the last six months and what the future looks like.
The pair discuss keeping prices low despite surging airfares in Australia, competing in the brutal domestic market and the advantage of flying with the MAX.
Finally, Jordan reveals why Bonza’s unique branding gives it an edge against Qantas, Rex and Virgin.
In this special Christmas episode, returning host Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn discuss what went right and wrong for international aviation in 2022. The pair discuss the sluggish return of tourists, lack of capacity and sky-high prices in commercial travel, alongside the gobsmacking unveiling of the B-21 Raider. Finally, they also stare into the future to predict what 2023 will bring.
In this special episode of Australian Aviation podcast, shadow minister for cyber security and shadow minister for countering foreign interference, Senator James Paterson joins Phil Tarrant (director - Momentum Media) and MAJGEN (retired) Dr Marcus Thompson to discuss the regulatory impediments preventing Australia from becoming a leader in cyber security.
The group begins the podcast discussing the cyber security threats facing Australia and the role of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).
Senator Paterson then details how foreign interference and espionage have overtaken terrorism as the primary security concern for Australia.
The team wraps up the podcast in outlining the importance of attracting the right talent with the right skills to power Australian cyber security businesses.
Former Australian Aviation Podcast host Phil Tarrant returns in this special episode to review the year in domestic travel with regular Adam Thorn. And what a year it’s been, as the pair discuss crazy delays at airports, record profits and spiralling airfares. Plus, the pair get stuck into what the future holds as we move into 2023 and travel edges closer to a pre-COVID normal.
In this special episode, Defence Connect’s Liam Garman and Australian Aviation’s Adam Thorn discuss the biggest military stories this year. The pair talk about the success of the F-35 program as it nears completion, reports of ex-RAAF pilots training Chinese military personnel and the axing of the SkyGuardian project. Finally, the hosts debate the most contentious talking point of 2022: was Australia really correct to change the name of Loyal Wingman to Ghost Bat?
Peter Newington is the newly appointed managing director of aviation and critical services at Babcock Australasia. In this special episode, Newington discusses the importance of leadership and why it matters in the kind of high-pressure situations Babcock personnel find themselves in. He also talks to host Adam Thorn about his career as a British Army pilot and how the lessons learned helped shape his management approach. Finally, the pair examine the long-term goals of the organisation and how Babcock will evolve.
Marek Bekier is a senior vice president at ACR Aviation Capacity Resources, which manages air traffic at 17 Swedish airports.
In this special episode in partnership with UNSW’s School of Aviation, Bekier talks to Australian Aviation’s Adam Thorn about what a career in air traffic control is really like, alongside its challenges.
The pair talk about why we need to move on from monopoly operations and how a free-market approach can work.
They also discuss how ATC needs to evolve in a world of drones, eVTOLs and more traditional aircraft traffic.
In this special episode, the editors of Defence Connect and Australian Aviation, Liam Garman and Adam Thorn, talk through the biggest industry topics.
First up, they discuss the need for long-range strike capability, with tensions in the region rising and Australia short of options.
Next, they ask how this should happen. Should the country invest in the ‘sequel’ to the B-2, the B-21, or plump for conventional long-range missiles?
Finally, they discuss the importance of US B-52s being semi-regularly based at RAAF Base Tindal and whether they could carry nuclear weapons.
Domestic travel in Australia may have bounced back to pre-pandemic highs, but our international passenger traffic is still far down on 2019.
In this special episode, Adelaide Airport’s MD, Brenton Cox, talks through how his organisation coped during those tough COVID-19 days and what we got right and wrong.
He tells host Adam Thorn that we must learn the lessons of 2020 for the future and argues that state border closures should have been decided by the federal government rather than state governments.
Finally, the pair discuss what Australia needs to do as a nation to encourage tourists to return and how the industry can navigate its staff shortages.
Like a phoenix rising from the flames, Hannah Dowling returns in her new role as US correspondent to talk about her latest story.
She tells host Adam Thorn how and why US airlines are taking Australian pilots in such numbers.
The pair discuss what Australia can do to stem the tide, the balance between developing young talent and importing them, and the perks of going abroad.
Finally, they chat about how COVID-19 and its restrictions exacerbated the problem for Australia.
Our aviation industry has been long grappling with a chronic lack of engineering talent — with COVID-19 exacerbating the problem.
On this week’s episode, Adam Thorn talks to the RAAA, which last week released a report identifying the causes behind our shortages and what we can do to fix them.
Report author Sheridan Austin and the RAAA’s CEO Steve Campbell discuss why businesses must invest in hiring more apprentices and why rules on transferring qualifications from abroad need to be modernised.
Finally, they examine what can be done to encourage more women into the profession and how long-term aviation stereotypes can be challenged.
Australian Aviation attended last week’s Land Forces military exhibition in Brisbane and interviewed two guests on the floor.
Jay Macklin had a storied military career that saw him fly Black Hawks before rising to become a colonel in the US Army. He’s now a director based in Alabama for Lockheed Martin, and discusses his flying days, as well as the aircraft’s future.
Finally, we’re joined by Australian Aviation’s rotary wing pilot of the year, Richard Butterworth. He chats about how Kestrel began fighting bushfires at night and the future of the industry as we approach another La Niña season.
Greg Hay is the General Manager of Operations at Sydney Airport.
Over the last few years, he’s seen first-hand how our industry has changed before, during and after COVID-19 at Australia’s busiest and most important international airport.
In this special episode in partnership with UNSW’s School of Aviation, Hay talks through navigating aviation’s toughest period but also how the industry is building back better and is on the cusp of an exciting new world of electric technologies and sustainability.
He also discusses the airport’s unique partnership with UNSW and how its annual scholarship scheme is boosting diversity and inclusion in the sector.
Greg Hay is the General Manager of Operations at Sydney Airport.
Over the last few years, he’s seen first-hand how our industry has changed before, during and after COVID-19 at Australia’s busiest and most important international airport.
In this special episode in partnership with UNSW’s School of Aviation, Hay talks through navigating aviation’s toughest period but also how the industry is building back better and is on the cusp of an exciting new world of electric technologies and sustainability.
He also discusses the airport’s unique partnership with UNSW and how its annual scholarship scheme is boosting diversity and inclusion in the sector.
It sounds mad, but it’s real: Virgin Orbit has perfected audacious technology to fire rockets from refurbished Boeing 747s.
Speaking exclusively from LA, the business’ CEO, Dan Hart, tells the Australian Aviation Podcast how the plan will open satellite launches up to more countries by turning airports into spaceports.
The pair also discuss how the technology works, the company’s ambition to launch imminently in the UK, and how Hart works with Virgin Group founder Richard Branson.
It sounds mad, but it’s real: Virgin Orbit has perfected audacious technology to fire rockets from refurbished Boeing 747s.
Speaking exclusively from LA, the business’ CEO, Dan Hart, tells the Australian Aviation Podcast how the plan will open satellite launches up to more countries by turning airports into spaceports.
The pair also discuss how the technology works, the company’s ambition to launch imminently in the UK, and how Hart works with Virgin Group founder Richard Branson.
Andrew Charlton is the managing director of Aviation Advocacy, a consultancy firm based in Switzerland.
His exhaustive CV includes stints as chief legal officer of Qantas before heading government affairs for the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and working as a university lecturer in airport economics, management and policy.
In this special episode in partnership with UNSW’s School of Aviation, Charlton discusses how the industry should best navigate its tricky post-COVID-19 recovery.
He talks talent shortages, whether airport slot rules are too much of a constraint and the industry’s move towards sustainability.
Andrew Charlton is the managing director of Aviation Advocacy, a consultancy firm based in Switzerland.
His exhaustive CV includes stints as chief legal officer of Qantas before heading government affairs for the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and working as a university lecturer in airport economics, management and policy.
In this special episode in partnership with UNSW’s School of Aviation, Charlton discusses how the industry should best navigate its tricky post-COVID-19 recovery.
He talks talent shortages, whether airport slot rules are too much of a constraint and the industry’s move towards sustainability.
Hypersonic research has become one of the biggest topics in global aviation, as countries compete to develop the next generation of missiles so manoeuvrable, they can’t be intercepted.
The advances are also being used to create scramjet-powered, hypersonic spaceplanes, which could one day provide an alternative to rockets for taking satellites into space.
In this special episode, host Adam Thorn interviews Dr Fabian Zander, a key player in the University of Southern Queensland’s world-leading hypersonic wind tunnel, to find out how the tech will change the industry.
He also discusses his work using aircraft in Australia to study fragmented comets.
Hypersonic research has become one of the biggest topics in global aviation, as countries compete to develop the next generation of missiles so manoeuvrable, they can’t be intercepted.
The advances are also being used to create scramjet-powered, hypersonic spaceplanes, which could one day provide an alternative to rockets for taking satellites into space.
In this special episode, host Adam Thorn interviews Dr Fabian Zander, a key player in the University of Southern Queensland’s world-leading hypersonic wind tunnel, to find out how the tech will change the industry.
He also discusses his work using aircraft in Australia to study fragmented comets.
Dogged reporter, podcast host, and writer with total disrespect for word counts: Hannah Dowling made quite the impression during her two years at Australian Aviation.
As she leaves for a new life in the US, she sits down with co-host Adam Thorn to talk through her favourite moments.
The pair also find time to discuss the latest stories, including the ongoing talent shortage in the industry and the arrival of B-2s at Base Amberley.
Finally, Hannah discusses her investigation into whether sustainability is really sustainable, set to appear in the next print magazine.
This week has seen Qantas in the headlines again over poor service, flight disruptions, and a new program that would see its corporate executives moving passenger baggage.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss the latest of Qantas’ woes as staff shortages take their toll.
Plus, the team discusses Bonza’s first 737 MAX, which officially touched down on Australian shores ahead of its grand launch in the coming weeks.
Finally, get your dresses and tuxes ready for the Australian Aviation Awards, and Adam reveals an upcoming change to the cast of the show.
The COVID-19 crisis may have receded, but it’s been replaced by soaring inflation, rising interest rates, and worries about a possible recession.
It’s being caused by the continued impact of pandemic restrictions, the war in Ukraine, talent shortages, and supply chain issues.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn speaks to MGD Wealth’s Richard Marsden and Jessica Harris to make sense of our new world and how to navigate it in order to make it through without experiencing financial strain or loss.
They discuss how you should prepare, why it’s important to take a long-term view, and why it’s vital to keep a close eye on your superannuation and any insurance you may have within it.
The struggles of the global aviation industry hit a little closer to home this week.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and recently-returned Hannah Dowling discuss Hannah’s experiences touring overseas in the post-pandemic world.
Plus, the team reveal the latest statistics on aviation’s recovery and question how anyone is supposed to travel amid inflated fares, growing uncertainty, and passport office hold-ups.
Finally, when will Qantas’ woes end after a Qantas 717 got stuck in the mud and its domestic and international CEO Andrew David spoke out against the airline’s critics?
Defence Space Command is the new space division of the ADF and currently resides within the RAAF.
On this week’s episode, Bella Richards sits down with its new head, Air Vice-Marshal Catherine Roberts.
The two discuss what the new division will do and why it is so significant as space becomes more congested and contested.
Plus, the Air Vice-Marshal also explains her experiences in the early years of her career and how she will build a new culture in Defence Space Command from scratch.
Doug Morris has been an Air Canada pilot for 26 years, and currently flies 787s.
If his name sounds familiar, it’s because we ran extracts from his fantastic new book — called This is Your Captain Speaking — in our last issue of Australian Aviation’s print magazine.
In it, he spills the trade secrets of flying long haul — everything you wanted to know, but were too afraid to ask.
In this episode, Morris talks to host Adam Thorn about his passion for flying, navigating COVID, and what’s in store for the industry in a post-pandemic world.
Merren McArthur has certainly made her mark on Australia’s aviation sector as the former CEO of Virgin Australia Regional Airlines and Tigerair who was dedicated to improving female engagement in aviation.
In this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Hannah Dowling and Anna Grbas sit down with Merren to discuss how she navigated her own career progression out of in-house counsel to the C-suite level in the competitive, male-dominated aviation space.
Merren also shares how she was able to improve female participation not only in her pilot cohort, but also in her senior management teams at Tiger — a plan she intends to use again in her new role.
Finally, Merren reveals the details of her new venture with Canadian startup budget carrier LynxAir, and the number one piece of advice she would offer to her younger self.
This week, Bonza unveiled its new ‘wear it your way’ uniforms, while the ACCC revealed that Australia’s domestic passenger capacity reached 89 per cent of pre-COVID levels in April.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss how aviation’s recovery continues to catch the industry off guard.
Plus, the team reveals Bonza’s plan for its crew to don shorts, blazers, and sneakers aboard its fleet of Boeing 737 MAX jets.
Finally, the crew discuss the newest developments in Rex and Qantas's ongoing feud over network decisions.
On Thursday, 26 May, a Chinese-built J-16 fighter jet “cut across the nose” of a RAAF P-8 Poseidon, getting so close that the fighter’s chaff was “ingested” into the aircraft’s engine.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling reveal what they know so far about the incident, the aircraft, and the message being sent by China.
Plus, the team discusses Virgin’s latest move to show support and recognition towards its workforce after two years of hardship.
Finally, Adam shares the very exciting story of Qantas’ last Boeing 747 being finally moved out of the California desert and a possible future return to Australian shores.
This week, Rex and Qantas are back to their old tricks, resorting to name-calling and finger-pointing over key network decisions.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling give you the run-down of what’s going on, and why two of the country’s major airlines continue to battle it out in the media.
Plus, the team discusses where we stand in our domestic and international travel recovery, and what to expect over the coming months.
Finally, the crew discusses Bonza’s latest update and what to expect from Australian Aviation’s newest digital magazine.
In April, aerospace composite business and MRO provider Quickstep signed a pioneering $30 million long-term maintenance contract with Jetstar.
It was hugely significant for our industry because it was the first time a deal of this nature had been awarded to a local, independent MRO provider after an extensive global tendering process.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, the business’ executive general manager of aftermarket services, Tim Gent, talks about the deal’s importance.
He also chats with host Adam Thorn about how the country competes to secure global deals, how to fix engineering skill shortages and Quickstep’s investment in unmanned aircraft.
As aviation awakens from its COVID hibernation, it’s facing a huge shortage of skilled workers across multiple professions. In this special podcast episode, host Adam Thorn speaks to William Horrocks and Leif Mawson from training organisation Aviation Australia. Their business knows all about the industry’s issues first-hand, as they work nurturing up-and-coming pilots, cabin crew, drone operators and aircraft maintenance engineers. The pair discuss why enthusiasm for the industry has never been higher among new recruits, why aviation companies need to invest more in developing talent and how Aviation Australia has evolved over its 20-year history.
After sitting in storage for over two years, a Virgin-branded Boeing 777 has taken to the skies again, being ferried from Wellcamp to Brisbane.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling are back in the studio to discuss the possible explanations behind this curious move.
Plus, the crew reveals the details of a new lawsuit taken against Virgin’s pre-administration management team by angry, “gypped” bondholders.
Finally, the team dives into international aviation’s recovery trajectory, and what to expect in the next edition of the Australian Aviation magazine.
The Flying Kangaroo dominated the headlines again this week in the aftermath of its Project Sunrise A350 order, as well as a major bid to take over Alliance Aviation, and a loss in court.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss Qantas’ moves this week, and the possibility of a more sinister story bubbling underneath.
Plus, the team fleshes out the details of Qantas’ lost bid to overturn a Federal Court ruling that states its decision to outsource 2,000 workers was illegal,
Finally, the crew discusses the next edition of the Australian Aviation magazine, including a mammoth feature into the upcoming launch of budget start-up Bonza.
Qantas this week announced a record-breaking order for aircraft, after firming up an order for 12 Airbus A350-1000s, alongside up to 134 A321XLR and A220s to replace its domestic fleet.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss Qantas’ major Project Sunrise milestone and what this means for future passengers.
Plus, the crew talks through the current state of domestic aviation, Virgin’s new 737 MAX order, and Qantas’ Project Winton deliveries.
Finally, the team reveals new insights into the slow recovery of the international travel sector and shares their predictions for what to expect next.
In the last two weeks, headlines have been filled with concerning insights into the corporate culture of both Qantas and Virgin, as customers grow increasingly frustrated with the current state of affairs.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss this week’s viral story of photos showing Qantas A330 crew sleeping across economy passenger seats onboard a flight from Brisbane-LA.
Plus, what do these photos have in common with ongoing EBA disputes between Qantas and its cabin crew, eight-hour long customer service hold-times, and chaotic scenes at airports?
Finally, the team discuss their thoughts on Virgin’s ongoing corporate culture problems, and whether they think there’s more to this story.
The COVID crisis may have receded, but with soaring inflation and war in Eastern Europe, aviation professionals are gearing up for more challenging years to come.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, MGD Wealth’s Alec Berry and Richard Marsden discuss what they’re hearing from their clients working in frontline aviation roles.
They talk through how it’s easier than you think to plan for unplanned events and why it’s important to set short and long term goals for your finances.
Finally, the pair consider how young professionals entering the industry and even older hands can be prepared for future events that inevitably lead to disruption in the aviation industry.
The information in this podcast is current as at the date of the recording. Please note that past performance is not an indication of future performance. Any advice included in this podcast is general and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. As such, you should consider its appropriateness having regard to these factors before acting on it. Any tax information refers to current laws, is not based on your unique circumstances and should not be relied on as tax advice. Before you make any decision about whether to acquire a certain financial product, you should obtain and read the relevant product disclosure statement.
Australians are finally getting back in the air, as seen during scenes of chaos at Australia’s airports this week.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss the ins and outs of travelling overseas in a post-COVID world, in light of Hannah’s recent trip to Bali.
Plus, the team discusses the outrageous hours-long lines seen at Australia’s major airports ahead of the Easter holiday season, and questions if the industry should accept any blame following two years of stand downs and redundancies.
Finally, New Zealand’s borders are set to open this week to Australians and visa holders, in what should be another major win for Oceania’s airlines.
Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) is finally being recognised by Australia’s aviation regulators in recent days. On this week’s episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Bella Richards chats with UPRT Australia’s founders Shane Tobin and Jeremy Miller. The company began last year and provides specialist training for pilots on how to avoid and recover from an aircraft upset. The trio discusses what UPRT is, why it’s important to teach pilots how to emotionally deal with an upset, the recent mandate and what more could be done. Finally, the group chats about the future of UPRT, and how it is even more needed coming out of the pandemic.
More than two years since our Black Summer, Australia is beginning to rethink how we fight bushfires in the air.
On this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn speaks to Wayne Coulson, the CEO of one of the world’s leading aerial fighting companies.
He talks about why we should be fighting fires at night; why companies, not governments, should lead innovation; and how technology is already helping us predict how fires will spread.
Finally, the pair describes how seasons are becoming more intense and longer, and why we can’t count on other countries for help.
How do big Australian primes work with smaller businesses in the supply chain?
In this special podcast, host Adam Thorn interviews Chris Hess, Head of Industrial Development at Lockheed Martin Australia and Gavin New, the general manager of Ronson Gears.
The pair have been working together on a range of projects across defence and aerospace and reveal the secrets behind making the relationship work, as well as dispelling some myths behind supply chain collaboration.
Finally, Chris discusses the importance of Australia boosting its sovereign industry capability as industries emerge from the pandemic.
In this bonus episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant and MAJGEN (Ret’d) Marcus Thompson discuss the importance of Australian business, including the aviation sector, preparing for possible cyber threats.
The pair begin by discussing MAJGEN (Ret’d) Thompson’s recent opinion piece in The Australian Financial Review, which dives into Russia’s history of cyber and information warfare, and the threat of Russian cyber-attacks being weaponised in reprisal against Australia for supporting Ukraine during the recent conflict.
Both hosts continue by discussing the impact of cyber warfare on Australian businesses, and how many malicious actors work in concert with state-sponsored groups to exploit the cyber domain.
The pair wraps up the podcast by analysing how cyber remains an integral part in both hybrid and greyzone warfare, and that foreign actors will continue to use cyber as an essential attack vector in future conflicts.
After missing out on our usual news-loaded podcasts for a few weeks, the team sure had plenty to catch up on this week.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling give you the run-down, spanning everything from flash floods, tensions in Europe and financial results.
Plus, Bonza has seen turbulent times this week with the shock departure of its chief operating officer just months ahead of its planned launch and increasing scepticism from across the industry.
Finally, learn more about how Australian Aviation is gearing up for its inaugural awards ceremony in what is going to be the industry’s post-pandemic “night of nights”.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Air Vice Marshall (Ret’d) John Quaife, AM, sit down to discuss John’s new book Viking Boys.
A former Air Commander Australia, John spent nearly three decades in the Royal Australian Air Force as a fighter pilot. After retiring from the force, he became a member of the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal, where he learnt incredible stories of untold and remarkable bravery and honour from Australian forces.
Viking Boys tells the story of Beaufighter pilot James Hakewill and his navigator Fred Sides, who died on 5 December 1944 when their aircraft slammed into a German gunboat in a fjord in Norway.
While official records contain no mention of the aircraft hitting the ship, John reveals what truly happened on 5 December 1944.
This week, start-up budget carrier Bonza lifted the lid on its initial route offerings, which includes 25 routes to 16 destinations, with base operations split between the Sunshine Coast and Melbourne.
In this special bonus episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Hannah Dowling sits down with Bonza CEO Tim Jordan to talk through the airline’s initial network, and learn more about the processes behind those tough decisions.
Plus, Jordan shares insight into the negotiation process with airports, and where Bonza intends to go next.
Finally, the CEO eases fears that some Bonza destinations aren’t built for the 737 MAX, and reveals what he’s most excited to see come launch day.
This week, the industry responded to the massive news that Australia will reopen its borders to tourists from 21 February, with airlines ramping up Australian schedules, and Tourism Australia dropping $40 million on a new campaign to drum up tourism interest.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss where we stand in terms of the mass return of international airlines to Australian shores, and which carriers are acting with caution.
Plus, the “David versus Goliath”-esque network battle between Rex and Qantas is back in the headlines over the Flying Kangaroo’s new Sydney-Broken Hill route.
Finally, learn a little more about the newest job opening right here at Australian Aviation, and a feel-good story about a man who saved Victoria Police’s first helicopter.
This week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison finally revealed that Australia’s last international borders restrictions would be eased, allowing double-jabbed tourists and other visa holders back into the country.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling excitedly discuss the move, and what this means for travellers and airlines alike.
Plus, the crew talks about the latest blow-up between Qantas boss Alan Joyce and WA Premier Mark McGowan, over the western state’s indefinite hard border.
Finally, the team reveals Google Wing’s latest development, dropping KFC directly to front doors via drone.
This week, the Prime Minister hinted that tourism is soon to be back on the cards for Australia, while Qantas faced the Fair Work Commission again over its ongoing pay dispute with its international cabin crew.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss the Prime Minister’s announcement, and what this could mean for local and foreign airlines.
Plus, the crew debate Qantas’ desire to lock in the return of Perth-London flights, or risk losing their direct London route altogether.
Finally, the team reveals the details of a robbery gone wrong at Mackay Airport, after a man abandoned his plans to steal a helicopter, for a high-speed getaway on a tractor.
This week, the Western Australia government backflipped on its promise to reopen its borders on 5 February, while Queensland opened its international border for the first time since March 2020.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss the current border situation, as well as changing entry requirements for international travellers coming to Australia.
Plus, the team reveals the details of an ongoing feud between Qantas and its international cabin crew over post-pandemic pay and working conditions.
Finally, the crew talks about the historic Victors Vimy making its way to its new home inside Adelaide Airport.
This week, Qantas swiftly followed in Virgin Australia’s footsteps to announce it has been forced to slash capacity by up to 30 per cent from January through to March due to the current COVID outbreak.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn and reporter Hannah Dowling discuss the decision and the struggle for airlines in navigating the current operating environment.
Plus, the crew reveals the latest updates in Australia’s journey towards electric air taxi travel, with new and exciting deals taking place across the country, as well as Queensland’s dwindling vaccination rollout and Western Australia’s plans to reopen.
Finally, the crew reveals the details of a new Australian start-up hoping to change up the LEO satellite game with their supersonic space plane.
After being elected as president of the Australian Federation of Air Pilots in 2018, Louise Pole became the first woman in Australia to lead a pilots’ union, and the second female pilot union boss in the entire world.
In this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling speak with Louise in one of our most frank and honest conversations of this series to date – about the real challenges that she and her female colleagues have experienced since she began flying in the 1980s.
Louise tells us about her career path and the solidarity she built with other female aviators, as well as all the forums and programs she has been involved in to support women in aviation, including the AFAP Women’s Network.
Plus, the crew discusses how the female experience in aviation has changed over the past three decades, and talks about practical solutions for moving ahead.
After a brief period of open borders, this week, airlines have again been forced to cancel hundreds of flights and slash their flight schedules as the Omicron surge continues to send staff into isolation.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn and reporter Hannah Dowling discuss Virgin’s proactive decision to announce dramatic flight schedule changes amid ongoing staff shortages, that are sure to be similarly impacting the other airlines.
Plus, the team talks about Qantas’ major decision to pivot away from previously preferred planemaker Boeing, and head towards a nearly all-Airbus fleet over the next two decades.
Finally, Adam eagerly raises the topic of Labour’s new plan to make the lucrative Golden Triangle redundant, by means of high-speed rail.
As the news cycle begins to slowly but surely pivot away from constant COVID-19 reporting, the ideas of sustainability, electric aircraft and urban air mobility solutions have once again emerged as key themes in 2021.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Hannah Dowling sits down with David Rottblatt, the vice-president of business development at Eve Urban Air Mobility – an Embraer subsidiary focused on bringing electric air taxis to the mainstream.
David and Hannah discuss the current state of play in the global air taxi market, how far we are from seeing eVTOL taxis flying overhead, where we can expect the rollout of such technologies to be focused on and the opportunities of flying taxi technologies in growing cities.
The two also discuss Eve’s major focus on the Australian market, its growing myriad of partnerships with local Aussie SMEs – more of which have been announced since this episode was recorded – and what this means for the future of eVTOLs in Australia.
What’s it like to be a senior executive in a major international airline when a once-in-a-century pandemic grounds the industry
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Singapore’s regional manager for public affairs, Karl Schubert, talks host Adam Thorn through the dramatic moments the team made the crunch decisions.
He reveals why the airline kept flying despite low demand and stringent arrival caps, whether COVID was worse than they thought and whether he thinks the industry will bounce back to 2019 levels.
Finally, the pair discuss the future of the A380. Can it really survive in a world of smaller long-haul aircraft?
Jodie Bevan is a woman of many talents. After training as an aerobatic pilot early in her career, she jumped ship into business aviation and made her way up the ladder at Textron.
In this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling sit down with Jodie to hear about the opportunities and challenges of her varied career after learning to fly and starting her own business in her 20s.
Plus, Jodie shares her insights as Textron’s regional sales director for turboprops in South-East Asia, into what we can expect to see out of the region as we emerge from the pandemic.
Finally, Jodie and the team discuss the significant contributions of women “behind the scenes” in aviation – leading the charge in aviation business consulting, communications, media and senior executive positions.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn talks to Bell Flight’s Terry Miyauchi, who previously headed up Arizona Police’s Aviation Unit.
The former pilot discusses how law enforcement agencies use helicopters in 2021 and how the technology onboard has evolved over the years.
Plus, he explains why both emergency services and defence still favour the Bell 429, which first flew more than a decade ago.
Finally, with drone uptake increasing and electric aircraft on the horizon, what is the future of parapublic aviation?
Queensland has opened its borders and Australia is planning to further lift international restrictions. But with Omicron lurking around the corner, could our progress be held back?
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn talk about what all this means for our aviation industry.
Plus, new airline Bonza sprung a major surprise last week when it announced it was to quadruple its fleet of 737 MAXs. Should Qantas, Virgin and Rex be worried?
Finally, the team discusses the surprising return of the Albatross, which will be built in the NT.
Australia has recently accepted its latest delivery of F-35s – the fifth-generation fighter that represents the biggest upgrade in RAAF’s capability in a generation.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Lockheed Martin Australia’s Andy Doyle tells host Adam Thorn how they onboarded the platform to the country.
The pair discuss what makes the aircraft so special, the scale of the program globally and how pilots, engineers and support staff were selected and trained to help with the transition.
Finally, they also chat about keeping the F-35 program going during two challenging years of COVID.
This weekend’s Wings Over Illawarra was probably the biggest gathering of fans of flight in two years, as attendees bid goodbye to the retiring Classic Hornet and welcomed its replacement, the F-35.
Australian Aviation’s Adam Thorn was there to interview some of the key industry figures in attendance.
In this special episode, Adam records our podcast onboard a C-130 Hercules with one of its pilots, Flight Lieutenant Brendan Smith, who talks us through how this evergreen aircraft has adapted to the times.
Australia’s unique geography arguably makes it more reliant on parapublic aviation services than most countries in the world.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn talks to Bell Flight’s Dan McQuestin about how these services have evolved over the years.
A helicopter pilot himself, McQuestin talks through the modern uses and advances in both police and search and rescue aircraft.
Finally, he explains how the business is embracing and transitioning into the future, with remotely piloted and electric aircraft on the horizon.
The last fortnight has seen Qantas return the first of 10 Airbus A380s due to return to service for the airline by 2023, while Rex threw ice water on Bonza’s fiery launch plans.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss the triumphant return of Qantas A380 VH-OQB, a move predicted by Hannah long before the news was made public.
Plus, the team talks about comments made by Rex’s John Sharp about upcoming budget competitor Bonza, and debates whether or not Bonza will take off.
Finally, the crew reveals where we now stand on borders reopening, and what to expect from the latest edition of the Australian Aviation magazine.
Australia and New Zealand’s aviation industries are nearly at the end of our COVID nightmare. But now what?
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn and Oceania Aviation’s Dwayne McCalman discuss the challenges of the last 12 months and how we can work together to conquer them.
They discuss difficulties over supply chains, freight shortages and border closures, and McCalman explains how Oceania has found ways to mitigate those issues to keep essential aircraft in the air.
Plus, insight into how the industry should work harder to encourage the next generation to take up careers in engineering, as we battle tough skill shortages.
Where were we? Oh yes, COVID, border closures, lockdowns, thousands upon thousands of redundancies, lawsuits and the worst two years in aviation since World War II.
But on the Australian Aviation podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn celebrate, if not the very end of the pandemic, certainly the moment the corner has been turned.
On today’s episode, the team discusses just what the opening of international borders means for a weary nation, as Qantas operates its iconic QF1 flight from Sydney to London once again.
Plus, we ask, can new airline Bonza really find lucrative new routes in a market already dominated by three main players?
Earlier this month, startup airline Bonza broke cover to reveal a plan to fly “point-to-point” leisure routes not serviced by Qantas, Virgin and Rex with a fleet of two to three new 737 MAXs.
Now founder Tim Jordan tells the Australian Aviation Podcast host Adam Thorn how he plans to find a niche for his business against stiff competition.
The pair also talk about why Bonza has chosen the MAX, what he’ll do if rivals decide to compete on their routes, when it will launch and how the industry will recover from COVID.
Plus, ex-Virgin Blue executive Jordan reveals why he’s passionate about budget travel.
This week saw huge announcements out of NSW and Queensland confirming their plans to reopen international borders before the end of this year.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn and reporters Hannah Dowling and Bella Richards discuss the NSW Premier’s bombshell announcement to drop all quarantine requirements for returning overseas travellers.
Plus, the team ponders all the remaining unanswered questions surrounding exactly how Australia will emerge from its 18-month hibernation from the rest of the world.
Finally, the crew unveils CASA’s new mandate for Upset Prevention and Recovery Training and what this means for the industry.
Royal Australian Air Force Flight Lieutenant Aimee Heal is the second-ever female member of the RAAF’s aerobatic display team The Roulettes, currently serving as Roulette Seven.
In this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling sit down with Aimee to hear about her adrenaline-fuelled days piloting Pilatus PC-21 aircraft, and her role as the only full-time Roulette.
Plus, Aimee shares her experience rising through the ranks of the RAAF after first enrolling in the Australian Defence Force Academy straight out of high school.
Finally, she shares the best advice she’d give to her younger self, and to younger women looking to take on a future career in the RAAF and aviation.
It’s been a long, 18-month COVID pandemic, but it looks like commercial international flights to Australia could return sooner than we would have thought.
This week, a returning Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn talk through what a restart could mean for our industry. Will the announcement of a firm date spark more carriers into joining Qantas from 14 November?
Plus, the pair talk about the other big topics, including NSW’s new Premier, the RAAF replacing its damaged Growler and a record 17-hour repatriation flight.
Finally, what are the ramifications from Google’s announcement that it is sending delivery drones from a shopping mall roof direct to people’s homes?
It seems like an age ago now, but pre-COVID, Australia was battling another crisis with its ‘Black Summer’ bushfires – the worst in living memory.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, former NSW fire commissioner Greg Mullins explains why climate change means bigger fires will soon be a regular reality.
He also talks to host Adam Thorn about the state of play with our aerial firefighting fleet and why the federal government must do more to prevent another disaster.
Finally, Mullins speaks about the reality of fighting fires on the front line, and why it runs in his blood.
This week, debate continued to wage over the state of Australia’s domestic and international borders, as Queensland and Western Australia stand strong on their hard borders.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn and reporter Hannah Dowling discuss where we stand in our journey towards the re-opening of state and international borders.
Plus, the team reveals NSW’s roadmap out of lockdown, and how this will impact the aviation sector.
Finally, the crew discusses Qantas’ major move away from Perth, as the state’s borders cause the airline to reconsider its flagship London-Perth route.
As Victoria and NSW’s long lockdowns linger on, the aviation industry is quietly readying itself for the quicker-than-thought return of international travel.
In this week’s episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling ask if the industry is prepared to get planes flying again, with confusion over how COVID-safe protocols will work.
And with foreign airlines circling to snap up locked-down Aussie aviation workers, does the industry have a plan to keep hold of its best people?
Finally, the pair discuss the future of vaccine passports as Rex opts in as the UK opts out.
As chief remote pilot at the CSIRO, Amanda Meys has trailblazed through a very impressive career in risk management, drone piloting, maintenance and military aviation, just to name a few
In this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling sit down with Amanda to discuss her early career in military aviation, and her sheer determination to pursue avionics engineering.
Plus, Amanda shares her insight to the next generation of drone pilots hoping to find their way in the RPAS space.
Finally, she unveils why Australia has played such a critical role in the development of drone technologies, and become a global leader in the RPAS space.
Australian states are gearing up to end lockdowns and we’re being told we’ll soon have to learn to live with the virus. But are we ready to?
In this episode, Phil and Adam discuss what needs to be done for airports to be ready to open borders domestically and, crucially, internationally.
The pair also ask why major foreign airlines are so keen to hire Aussie pilots, and whether we’ll be left short in a post-COVID world?
Finally, what actually goes on in desert boneyards, and why is the work so secret?
This year's R U OK? Day serves as an important reminder to open up the conversation on mental health, both in the workplace and at home, according to David Coleman, member for Banks and Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.
In this special episode, join Momentum Media director Alex Whitlock as he speaks to Mr Coleman.
Together, the pair discuss the importance of shining a spotlight on mental health issues, share why the consequences of stigmatising mental health are significant, and reveal how you can make a difference to your workplace, community, family and friends.
While COVID has generated headlines for grounding commercial airlines, it’s also forced those in the MRO sector to quickly innovate to keep their clients airborne.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn speaks to the CEO of Salus Aviation, Greg Edmonds. He talks about the group’s New Zealand owned and operated business Oceania Aviation, which offers nose-to-tail MRO support for rotary and fixed-wing operators.
The pair discuss the challenges of the past year, closed borders, expanding across the Tasman, and sourcing the best talent globally.
Plus, with hybrid aircraft and eVTOLS on the brink of breaking through, what’s next for the industry as a whole?
After two months in a COVID slumber, Qantas finally poked its head up to reveal its full-year financial results.
And while the loss was predictable, far more interesting was its ambitious plan to get flying again this year, and bring its A380s back earlier than expected.
In this episode, Adam Thorn and Hannah Dowling discuss the politics behind the story, and which of its A380s will be the first to leave the desert to return.
Plus, why has Qatar’s Hamad airport been named the best in world despite the invasive search of Australian women returning home last year?
This week, the RAAF’s attempts to evacuate thousands of Australians from Kabul Airport in Afghanistan became mainstream news.
In this episode, Phil and Adam talk about the latest updates and discuss whether the war in Afghanistan was always unwinnable.
Plus, COVID and aviation stories intertwine again as state premiers appear to diverge on when the country should open up.
Finally, the pair talk through the latest issue of the Australian Aviation print magazine.
Starting first as an aeronautical engineer, and then a flight test engineer for the Canadian Armed Forces, Kristen Raby has climbed the ranks of both the public and private sectors, to now be Nova Systems’ general manager of operations.
In this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling sit down with Kristen to discuss her early fascination with the aviation industry, and how it shaped her future career path.
Plus, Kristen reveals how she demonstrated her capabilities to kickstart her early career progression, how decisions she made early on affected her later down the road, and the way she climbed up the corporate ranks.
Finally, she shares the greatest advice she would give to a younger woman looking to take on a similar path.
As NSW’s near two-month lockdown rumbles on, state and territory leaders seem to be backing out of their national cabinet promise to open borders when most of us have been vaccinated.
On this week’s episode, Phil and a very recently jabbed Adam discuss how COVID politics is keeping domestic aviation grounded.
Plus, the team discuss a screwdriver incident, Alliance’s amazing profits and stand downs at Rex and Virgin.
Finally, the pair chat about the imminent launch of the new issue of Australian Aviation’s print magazine.
This week, Qantas announced it would stand down 2,500 employees, just one day after the government revealed its plan to provide additional financial support to the airline industry.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn and reporter Hannah Dowling discuss the conveniently-timed move, and speculate as rival Virgin bides its time.
Plus, the team reveals the details of that booze-fuelled Japan Airlines flight that saw some Australian Olympians end up in hot water with the international media.
Finally, the crew talks of one lucky frequent flyer that spent 2 million points on two used Qantas A380 seats.
People often don’t take the time to consider the kind of retirement they want to have, and whether they can afford it. But delaying making a plan will only make things more difficult in the long-run.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn speaks to MGD Wealth’s Richard Marsden and Alec Berry to discuss how professional financial modelling can take the guesswork out of enjoying a successful retirement.
Richard talks through the questions you should be asking, such as what age can you afford to retire and will my assets maintain my quality of living?
Finally, the pair give us some real-life case studies from those in the industry to illustrate how different scenarios can get you successfully to your end goal.
The information in this podcast is current as at the date of the recording. Please note that past performance is not an indication of future performance. Any advice included in this podcast is general and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. As such, you should consider its appropriateness having regard to these factors before acting on it. Any tax information refers to current laws, is not based on your unique circumstances and should not be relied on as tax advice. Before you make any decision about whether to acquire a certain financial product, you should obtain and read the relevant product disclosure statement.
Aviation’s deep freeze shows no sign of thawing – but this week Alan Joyce broke cover to reassure staff stand-downs will be avoided. For now.
In this week’s episode, Phil and Adam discuss the latest situation with borders and lockdowns, and ask how quickly domestic aviation can recover.
Plus, Australian Aviation talks through its story aiming to track down all the Qantas 747s in boneyards. How did we do it… and what happens when an aircraft reaches the Pearly Gates?
Finally, Air New Zealand is now Australia’s biggest international airline. What does this mean for bragging rights across the Tasman?
As domestic aviation’s latest COVID slumber continues, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn try to find some reasons to be positive.
Because amid the gloom, there’s been some great stories of late, not least that of hero pilot Gerry Geltch, who saved his trainee co-pilot by repeatedly re-entering the wreckage of his Cessna after it crashed into the sea.
The team also discusses the space race between Sir Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos, and what it means for the future of aviation.
Finally, as Talisman Sabre continues, what is its significance to the RAAF?
Amy Shira Teitel is a woman of many talents – she’s a space historian, YouTuber, TV host, and now, a biographical author.
On this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling are joined by Amy to discuss her latest biographical novel, titled Fighting for Space, which tells the story of the women vying to become NASA’s first female astronauts, and the Mercury 13.
Amy tells us the story of Jackie Cochran and Jerrie Cobb, two distinguished pilots who dreamed of flying to space, and the rivalry between them that contributed to the downfall of the Mercury 13 program.
Finally, Amy shares details of how she pieced together this incredible story, her creative process, as well as her own experience as a woman operating in the male-dominated spaces of science, history and academia.
Leaving any job in aviation can be hard. Particularly if you’re a pilot, and even more so if you’re an RAAF fighter pilot. How do you deal with giving up a lifetime’s work?
There’s probably no person in Australia who has managed the transition better than Jim Whalley, who co-founded Nova after a hugely successful career flying Hornets.
In this interview, Adam and Jim discuss his career, what possessed him to take the gamble of moving into business, and what the future holds for one of our industry’s most influential companies.
Plus, the pair chat about why it’s so important to get the next generation of young Australians interested in STEM subjects, as aviation faces years of huge disruption and growth.
Last week, it was back to the future as half of Australia went into lockdown and state borders slammed shut.
On this week’s episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn talk through the sobering events and ask how long airlines can hold their nerve and not stand down workers.
Plus, the pair chat about the effect of Australia reducing its overseas arrival caps. How much harder will it make it for the country to remain open, and for stranded Aussies to get home?
Finally, we celebrate the ingenious targeting abilities of Army’s super smart Shadow drones, and a new era of space and aviation collaboration.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Defence Connect news editor Charbel Kadib joins Adam and Phil to discuss the latest developments in military aviation.
The team begins by addressing the latest COVID-19 outbreak in NSW and its potential consequences, before reflecting on the evolution in air power, including the recent integration of the fifth-generation F-35A fleet.
The trio also touch upon the recent testing of RAAF capability across a number of major military exercises, including Exercise Arnhem Thunder and Exercise Rogue Ambush.
Finally, they chat about the impact of suspending the MRH-90 Taipan fleet and the greenlighting of Defence’s purchase of 29 Boeing-built Apache aircraft.
Last week, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk advised citizens not to travel to NSW – but stopped short to shutting her borders.
It meant many businesses were in limbo, denied insurance payments but also unable to travel or put on events.
In this week’s episode, Phil and Adam discuss where Australia’s state border chaos goes. Should there be a national plan, and has the country surrendered its advantage with its slow vaccine rollout?
Finally, the pair talk about the ongoing capacity wars: does Virgin have a chance of knocking Qantas off its pedestal as airlines scramble to reclaim lost market share?
Deborah Lawrie is undoubtedly a name you have heard before – She was Australia’s first female pilot for a major commercial airline, following a years-long battle with Ansett Airlines that made it all the way to the High Court.
On this episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling are joined by the pioneering female aviator to discuss the details of her early career in aviation, and how her passion for flight began to develop in her teens.
Deb also shares the story of fighting against Reg Ansett himself for her right to fly, how she never thought her discrimination case would end up reaching the High Court of Australia, and the barriers that still permeate through the aviation industry to this day for women.
Finally, Deb reveals her own plans and solutions to getting girls interested and engaged with the aviation industry from a younger age, a feat she believes will see female participation in the industry skyrocket.
How’s this for a life story: Matt Hall was an ex-Hornet pilot, combat instructor and Wing Commander who transitioned into becoming an air race pilot.
In 2019, he become the Red Bull Air Race World Champion.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, Matt talks to hosts Boo and Phil on his 2010 crash, dealing with risk, flying in the RAAF and how he navigated COVID.
Matt also talks about his love of flight, getting into the Air Force, believing in himself and why it’s important to take your chances in life.
Last week, Rex released a newspaper advert featuring supposed complaints from Qantas customers struggling to get their refund. It marked a new low in the very public fallout between the two airlines.
On this week’s episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn discuss the fallout. Is all fair in love and war, or will Rex rue the day it hit below the belt?
Plus, as Melbourne’s lockdown shuffles along, has the Victorian government made the right call?
Finally, it’s snakes – quite literally – on a plane as the critters shelter under Qantas A380 wheels.
Weren’t things going so well? Domestic aviation had seen record low prices, record high planes in the air and almost all employees back to work.
However, Victoria’s latest lockdown has sent the industry back into crisis mode. This week, Adam and Phil discuss what it means – and how big the damage could be.
The team also discusses last week’s big interview with Rex deputy chairman John Sharp, who talked about the long-running disagreement between the regional airline and Qantas.
Finally, the podcast investigates whether coffee by drone is a good thing, or not.
What a year Rex has had: from COVID-induced oblivion to fighting for the Golden Triangle via a high-profile falling out with Qantas.
In this episode, we talk to the man in charge, deputy chairman John Sharp, to find out first-hand how it all played out.
We dig deep into the rights and wrongs of Qantas launching flights on previously exclusive Rex routes, how he coped with having to stand down staff and why the pandemic presented a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to expand.
Finally, Sharp talks about his passion for aviation and why he loves the industry so much.
In this inaugural episode of Sky’s The Limit, hosts Anna Grbas and Hannah Dowling are joined by guest Kirsty Ferguson, Australian Aviation’s own careers and training columnist and aviation recruitment extraordinaire.
This week, Kirsty discusses the current state of career opportunities in Australia in the post-pandemic environment, and the shift in managers’ views towards gender and diversity in light of COVID.
She also speaks out on the individual and important differences that women bring to today’s aviation sector, and how she’s using education as the most important tool to encourage more women into the industry.
Finally, she touches on how an entrepreneurial spirit could be key to excelling in the post-COVID aviation working environment.
The ACCC has revealed it’s proposing to deny authorisation for Qantas and Japan Airlines to collaborate when international travel – finally – resumes.
On this week’s episode, Adam and Phil discuss what this means and why the airline has also opted to remain in its current bases.
Plus, the pair discuss the latest developments at Soar Aviation – the once biggest flight school in Australia that sunk into administration.
Finally, they examine the fallout from the latest COVID scare, caused by the now infamous ‘BBQ Man’.
In this week’s episode, Australian Aviation’s chief pilot-cum-prodigal son, Boo, returns to join Phil and Adam to discuss the latest issues in the industry.
And chief among them is how the vaccine debate has changed, as worries shift from supply to demand.
Aussies’ reluctance to get the jab is making many worry whether the country will ever open up, with Canberra Airport’s CEO arguing the inoculated should be spared from observing lockdowns.
Finally, the team discusses Anzac Day flypasts, Jetstar’s eye-catching campaign and a mix-up with Brisbane’s green zone.
Domestic aviation is roaring back with aircraft back in the air and most staff now stood up. Surely, it’s a time for celebration in the industry, right? Qantas and Rex have other ideas.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn discuss why Qantas’ Alan Joyce and Rex’s John Sharp traded withering insults in newspaper columns last week, from ‘broken propellers’ to ‘desperate’ balance sheets.
Who is right and what’s the motive for such personal attacks? And, who actually gains from this unpleasantness, or is it entirely about bruised egos?
Finally, we touch on the stunning recreation of the 737’s upstairs cocktail lounge, hiccups with the trans-Tasman bubble and the latest on the sheep farmer taking the RAAF to court.
The last 12 months have been tough for those working in the aviation industry, many of whom have had their incomes turned off for the first time in their lives.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn speaks to MGD Wealth’s Richard Marsden and Alec Berry to find out the stories they’re hearing from their clients first-hand.
The pair discuss what options are available to those affected, the pros and cons of taking early retirement and why workers should take a long-term view of their finances.
Finally, the team chat about the future as borders begin to open and the industry starts to return to normality.
The information in this podcast is current as at the date of the recording. Please note that past performance is not an indication of future performance. Any advice included in this podcast is general and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. As such, you should consider its appropriateness having regard to these factors before acting on it. Any tax information refers to current laws, is not based on your unique circumstances and should not be relied on as tax advice. Before you make any decision about whether to acquire a certain financial product, you should obtain and read the relevant product disclosure statement.
This week marked the most significant moment since the start of the COVID crisis as the trans-Tasman bubble opened.
And being the intrepid reporters we are, Australian Aviation’s own Blair Dods was on one of the very first flights from New Zealand to Australia on Monday (in what we called the Blair Ditch Project, naturally).
On this week’s episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn ask Blair to give his experience and discuss whether the bubble will help prop up the industry or burst at the first sign of a COVID case.
Finally, the team discusses the return of the Capacity Wars, as both Qantas and Virgin fight to restore their market share in an increasingly hostile market.
Last week, a mini-RAAF revolution took place when the Air Force decided to drop the term airmen in favour of aviators.
But on this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, our chief pilot Christian “Boo” Boucousis tells stand-in host Adam Thorn they’ve got it all wrong.
The pair discuss whether the move wrecks tradition or will be an important part of modernising the organisation. What should the RAAF be doing to get the next generation itching to become fighter pilots?
Finally, the team discusses the latest problems to hit the country’s vaccine rollout. Will Fortress Australia ever lower its walls to the rest of the world?
This week marked the 100-year anniversary of the RAAF, which culminated in one of the most ambitious flypasts attempted in years.
And a special occasion demands a special podcast. This week, host Phil Tarrant brings together Australian Aviation’s Adam Thorn and Defence Connect’s Liam Garman to discuss the past, present and future of our Air Force.
The team analyses how well equipped the RAAF is to deal with an uncertain period in the Indo-Pacific region, the government’s huge investment in the larger ADF and whether we’re likely to have a Royal Australian Space and Cyber Force in years to come.
Finally, the three discuss a very significant tribute from the Queen, who made a rare COVID appearance to celebrate the centenary.
What is the RAAF’s greatest ever aircraft? The Classic Hornet? F-111? Or perhaps, the Boomerang?
In this week’s episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn discuss Australian Aviation’s poll to find out which should win out, timed to coincide with our Air Force’s 100th birthday.
Plus, the pair chat about the Network Wars between Qantas and Rex, which have been launching flights on each other’s patches.
Is either airline in the wrong? Or is this just the healthy competition the industry needs right now?
After months of rumour and speculation, the industry finally found out that the wage-subsidy replacement for JobKeeper would be, well, exactly the same as JobKeeper.
In this week’s episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn discuss what it all means and the story behind how we ended up back to where we started.
Plus, the pair continue to rant and rave about their favourite RAAF aircraft, as Australian Aviation opens its 40-year archive of photos.
Adam argues why the Boomerang, created in just 16 weeks, exemplifies everything that’s great about Australia.
A nervous aviation industry finally got the news that it will get further financial help when JobKeeper ends. But will it be any good?
In this week’s episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn talk through the details of the government’s plan to bankroll half-price tickets.
The pair ask why certain locations have been picked, whether it will stop lockdown-happy Premiers shutting down their states and how much of a vote-winner free holidays could be.
Plus, the pair continue to talk about the best of RAAF ahead of its landmark centenary at the end of the month.
COVID has caused untold damage to pilots currently working in the industry, but the plight of those taking their first steps into the profession is often forgotten.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn speaks to Mark Dixon and Lyn Gray, from training school Fly Oz, to get advice and reassurance for those thinking about climbing into the cockpit.
They highlight how an underlying pilot shortage is reason for optimism, why aviation will bounce back stronger than we think and what newcomers should look for in an instructor.
Finally, the passionate pair talk about what inspired them to pursue their dreams of a career in the skies.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn geek out discussing which was the greatest RAAF aircraft ever.
Adam chooses the Caribou, but reserves the right to change his mind as the team begin their challenge to edit our unrivalled photo archive.
Plus, to more immediate matters, the pair discuss the latest in the industry’s battle to secure a JobKeeper replacement and Alan Joyce’s wise, or is that foolish, decision to duck a crucial senate committee hearing.
Finally, tributes are paid to Australian Aviation’s spotters, who were on hand to snap the first Rex capital city flight from inside, and outside, the 737.
As birthdays go, it’s a big one. Not just for the RAAF but really for aviation in Australia, which owes its start to the world’s second independent air force.
In this episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn reveal how Australian Aviation will celebrate the milestone, as well as asking for help from our listeners and readers.
Plus, the team digs into the big issues of the last week, including whether Virgin really can make mid-market work after the TWU raised concerns.
Finally, our story on a Singapore A380 leaving Alice Springs broke the internet – but why was it so popular?
If the last year was stressful, then spare a thought for the one man directly involved in every twist and turn, TWU national secretary Michael Kaine.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn speaks to one of the industry’s most influential figures about the biggest stories of the last few months.
The pair discuss the union’s rocky relationship with Qantas and its chief executive, Alan Joyce, whether Virgin really is genuine about its promises to become a mid-market carrier, and Rex’s entry into the Golden Triangle.
Finally, the pair talk about JobKeeper and what will happen if it doesn’t continue for aviation at the end of next month.
In this episode of Australian Aviation Podcast, Mark Burgess, managing director and CEO of Quickstep, joins host Phil Tarrant to discuss his firm’s growing contribution to Australian Industry Capability.
Burgess explains how Quickstep has transformed in recent years to become one of Australia’s most promising defence and aerospace companies, supporting key Defence projects, including the Joint Strike Fighter program.
The CEO also discusses the importance of building Australia’s sovereign industrial capability, noting how Quickstep is working to foster greater local participation in the defence industry supply chain.
Finally, Burgess unveils how the ASX-listed company plans to leverage its recent acquisition of a Boeing subsidiary to support Quickstep’s growth ambitions.
As the industry starts to – haphazardly, maybe – emerge from COVID crisis, there are worries as to whether we’re going to have enough skilled professionals left when normality returns.
This week, host Phil Tarrant and guests Christian “Boo” Boucousis and Adam “Brains” Thorn talk about how a perfect storm of factors, from stand-downs to retirements and young people looking elsewhere, could damage the recovery.
Plus, the team discusses the upcoming centenary of the RAAF and why it matters, and a new ticket war between Qantas, Virgin and Rex.
Finally, the boys chat about whether the border crisis will ever end, and how the Victoria lockdown affects the industry.
From age seven, Damien Toohey dreamed of becoming a pilot but took up law instead, before retraining to fulfil his true aviation ambitions in 1999.
But when COVID hit, he combined the two: working in law as a barrister but on aviation-related matters.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant speaks to a man who thought on his feet to survive as the industry went through the most difficult period in its history.
He talks his final flight from Australia to London, getting back up after being knocked down and fighting off imposter syndrome.
While 2020 was a challenging year for traditional aviation, COVID encouraged many airline pilots to transfer to flying drones, while governments began to embrace the burgeoning UAV revolution.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Adam Thorn speaks to Ross Anderson and Rowan Kimber from leading drone training centre Aviassist.
The panel discusses the raw skills required to make the transition, the unique challenge of flying beyond the line of sight and how the space is evolving.
Finally, the team debates how the world of manned and remotely piloted aircraft will co-exist and amalgamate in future – can we really remove the people in the cockpit?
After Victoria welcomed thousands of tennis players and coaches into the country for the Australian Open, a fuming Alan Joyce returned serve to point out its hypocrisy.
Why, he asked, was Victoria allowing people to enter from where “the virus was raging” but not from Sydney, where case numbers are some of the lowest in the world?
This week, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn take to their soapboxes to go through the issue in detail and ask what a better response could have been.
Plus, the team chats about the change to the top team at Virgin, a surge in domestic passengers in December and the arrival of another Antonov An-124-100 at Avalon Airport.
As the domestic aviation industry entered Christmas, it looked like COVID was beat with almost all borders open. Australia was united again.
But the celebration quickly became a nightmare as an outbreak in Sydney’s Northern Beaches sent the area into lockdown and spooked state leaders into reimposing restrictions.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn discuss how the next few months will pan out, and how big a setback this is.
Plus, the team ask why Qantas started selling international flights for winter, and whether Deputy PM Michael McCormack was right to launch an angry rebuke.
Australia, relatively speaking, seemed to have won COVID and performed well. But how and when the country opens poses a huge challenge.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn talk about how politics, science and aviation will collide in 2021.
Will hotel quarantine remain? Will we need to be vaccinated to travel? Are airlines sticking or twisting in bringing planes and staff back?
Finally, the pair predict the date the New Zealand travel bubble will open.
After the year from hell comes the year of change. 2021 will see airlines scramble to regain market share and stake their claim in the post-COVID world.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn run through what are likely to be the biggest stories of the new year.
Will Rex muscle their way into the Golden Triangle? Can Virgin win the mid-market war? And how will the industry cope when financial aid comes to an end?
Finally, the pair discuss the upcoming drone revolution that will surely take place. Does the technology have the potential to disrupt traditional aviation?
Where were we again? Oh, yes. Border closures, stand-downs, union rows, arrival caps, parked planes, hotel isolation and lockdowns.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn run through the biggest-rated stories of the year.
They talk about the moments that made the headlines, as well as the context behind it.
Plus, the team reflects on the amazing achievement that is Qantas reaching its centenary.
COVID has been the biggest shock traditional aviation has ever seen. Still, in the background, the UAV industry is booming, with drones taking on tasks from fighting bushfires to delivering medication and filming movies.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, UAV Training Australia’s Wayne Condon reveals how savvy pilots of major airliners are now retraining to take advantage of this growing sector.
He tells host Adam Thorn what raw skills are needed to make the transition, how UAVs and aircraft flying differs and just what leaps in technology have facilitated its growth.
Finally, the pair discuss what the future holds as new industries embrace change, young people enter the profession, and AI enters the mix.
If 2020 was a year to forget for aviation, there’s reason to hope 2021 could be much better for both enthusiasts and the industry.
In this week’s Inside Aviation catch-up, Phil and Adam discuss the return of Australia’s Outback Air Race: the 3,800-kilometre time trial across the country set to come back in 2021.
Plus, after Ryanair threw its weight behind the MAX last week with more orders, are other airlines following suit?
Finally, the team discuss the latest burst of optimism for the 747. Does the iconic aircraft have a future now it’s in semi-retirement?
Captain Tom House is Babcock Australasia’s chief pilot and head of flying operations (onshore).
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Captain House tells host Adam Thorn how Babcock collaborates with customers to provide critical emergency medical services, search and rescue, and law enforcement within Australia’s aviation sector.
He also discusses the history of the company and how it fits into the larger international operation.
Finally, he provides insight into how the business navigated COVID, the lessons learnt and how he thinks the industry will transition into a post-pandemic world.
The first COVID vaccination has been approved in the UK – but what does this mean for Australia and international travel?
In this week’s Inside Aviation catch-up, Phil and Adam discuss why the approval could pose questions in many countries, and what this means for life returning to normal.
Plus, European budget airline Ryanair has ordered an additional 75 MAX jets in a deal worth more than $9 billion.
Is this the breakthrough Boeing needs to end two years of hell, or has Ryanair just pounced on a bargain?
This week, Australia’s so-called Golden Triangle has been reassembled, with passengers now allowed to travel freely between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane without isolation.
On this week’s episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Phil, Adam and Boo chat about the scramble to reclaim market share as Virgin and Qantas wake from hibernation.
The team also discusses the role of unions in 2020, Qantas’ plans to outsource 2,000 roles and the last of the government-supplemented repatriations.
Finally, Phil and Boo wonder if Adam has finally turned into an aviation nerd? Is he now a Flightradar guru who will never find love?
This week, Qantas confirmed it was to outsource around 2,000 ground-handling jobs, despite an alternative proposal drawn up by the TWU and consulting firm EY. What now for those facing redundancy?
On this week’s Inside Aviation catch-up, Phil and Adam discuss the fallout and ask whether Qantas got it right or wrong considering its huge JobKeeper subsidies.
Plus, with a vaccine weeks – or maybe days – from being rolled out, international airlines have dispensed with the pleasantries and are preparing to try to reclaim market share.
Should big airlines, though, be able to keep their spots at airports if budget carriers want to get planes in the air?
Whisper it, but with borders opening and vaccines arriving shortly, are we witnessing the beginning of the end of aviation’s worst year in a century?
This week, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn discuss whether this is the moment we’ve all been waiting for or just a false alarm before another state lockdown?
Plus, the team talks about the latest developments in the Hamad Airport invasive search scandal. Is Qatar genuine in its actions, or is this just a bungled PR job to save its reputation?
Finally, it almost went unnoticed that Qantas turned 100 last week. Find out how the flag carrier pulled off a dramatic stunt over the Harbour Bridge.
It should have been the biggest story of the year. But after a 20-month flight ban – the longest in aviation history – the US Federal Aviation Administration has finally cleared the 737 MAX to fly again.
Now what?
In this week’s Inside Aviation, Phil and Adam discuss this and other stories breaking around the world. Will the industry be welcoming the Max back now it’s got bigger problems to deal with?
Plus, the team also discuss how the COVID vaccine will open up borders and the industry. Will a jab answer our prayers, or be the start of a tricky route out of international lockdown?
Stephen Loosley served in Parliament during the Hawke and Keating Governments, where he chaired the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade and the Senate Regulations Committee.
On this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant and Steven Kuper talk to guest Stephen Loosley about the fallout from the election of Joe Biden as the next US president.
What will it mean for Australia? How will it affect relations with China? And will it restore traditional international alliances abandoned by Donald Trump?
Finally, the team discuss the regional response to the election result and what nations throughout the Indo-Pacific are saying, as well as the economic impact for Australia and its regional partners over the coming decade.
Last week, the world celebrated as we edged closer to having a coronavirus vaccine. But the good news also raises questions for international border openings.
In our Inside Aviation catch-up, Phil Tarrant, Adam Thorn and a returning Boo chat about what this means for removing restrictions.
Is it as simple as a ‘shot in the arm’ solving our problems, and how will it affect Australia?
Finally, The team also discuss Emirates posting huge losses, the endless sad demise of the unloved A380 and yet another ‘vertiport’.
This week, we reported how Qantas is set to launch two new flights from Canberra, just weeks after smaller airlines took the gamble to service the more unusual routes.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn discuss if Qantas’ move is bad ethics given the pandemic, or just a larger competitor rightly taking advantage of a free market?
Plus, with an Australia-purchased vaccine looking close to completion, what does the future hold for international border closures? Will the country open up early, or later, next year?
Finally, the team discuss Rex’s purchase of an ex-Virgin 737. Is the fight for the Golden Triangle now on?
After more than 20 years, Tasmania is finally set to host flights to New Zealand, as the federal government gears up to make the most of the soon-to-be-expanding travel bubble.
It’s rare good news spurred on by the COVID crisis. In this week’s Inside Aviation, Phil and Adam discuss the latest developments in the industry, which is slowly coming back to life as borders reopen.
They also talk about one of the best stories of the year, as Rex finally takes delivery of the first of its 737s. But not before it was spotted by Australian Aviation’s photographer on the ground.
Finally, the team discuss the situation at Cathay, where contract negotiations have turned ugly.
With borders opening and COVID cases falling, there’s a sense of optimism in the industry that has been missing for months.
But that good news means airlines are gearing up to battle for market share in the post-pandemic world.
This week, host Phil Tarrant and guests Adam Thorn and Christian “Boo” Boucousis discuss who is going to win out as Rex gears up to flying capital cities, and Virgin plans cooperation with Alliance.
Finally, the team chat about the latest developments in the Qatar invasive search scandal. Will the story run and run, or have authorities drawn a line under it?
The story that 13 Australian women were invasively searched by Qatari authorities at Hamad Airport this month has refused to go away.
In the last few days, the Qatar government has finally issued an apology – but it seems to be more concerned with shifting the emphasis onto the missing baby.
On this week’s Inside Aviation, Phil and Adam discuss the impact on the industry, and whether Qatar will ever be able to regain passengers’ trust.
They also discuss the continual struggle to get passengers back home as border closures continue to bite, and why critics should be more understanding of under-fire airlines.
The story that 13 Australian women were invasively searched by Qatari authorities at Hamad Airport has become international news.
On this week’s episode, host Phil Tarrant and guest Adam Thorn discuss what the industry repercussions are and who is to blame?
Should the Australian government have done more to keep Qantas repatriating citizens? Is it right that Qatar Airways now dominates our skies? And was it correct that those victims then had to spend two weeks in hotel quarantine?
Finally, the team also discuss Virgin’s hot-and-cold relationship with the unions, the progress of Loyal Wingman and honouring the history of the Australian Aviation print magazine.
Earlier this month, the Australian Aviation team welcomed Virgin chief executive Paul Scurrah on to this podcast to talk about his plans for the airline. And now, out of nowhere, he’s gone.
This week, a bemused Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn discuss just what might or might not have happened? Did owners Bain do the dirty or do we need to give the new CEO the benefit of the doubt? Are the unions giving the new approach a fair go, or rightly standing their ground? And what does this mean for the industry?
Plus, the team talk more about the chaos and confusion caused by the one-way travel bubble with New Zealand. Who exactly is to blame, or is this just an unprecedented situation?
Finally, as Microsoft Flight Simulator gets its Harbour Bridge, Adam and Phil ask why it was omitted in the first place.
Among the chaos of COVID turning the industry on its head, it’s often easy to forget the effect this once-in-a-century event has had on the unsung heroes in air traffic control, and the tech that supports them.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Adam Thorn speaks to Martin Rampl, the managing director of Frequentis Australasia, which supplies the communication and information systems to our air traffic control centres.
Martin reveals how his team rapidly changed the way they worked to support our critical infrastructure during those heady days in late March.
He also discusses the secrets behind the science of communicating with aircraft, how reliability can make the difference between life and death, and why our technology must keep evolving to ensure Australian aviation remains well connected and safe.
On the previous episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, Virgin Australia chief executive Paul Scurrah appeared on the show to talk through the business’ bold comeback plan that will see it slot in between being a low-cost carrier and large international airline. Or as he calls it, the company will morph into a “high-quality, value airline”.
This week, host Phil Tarrant and guests Adam Thorn and a returning Christian “Boo” Boucousis ask: will it work? And can the plan fend off heavy champion Qantas and plucky upstart Rex?
Plus, they discuss whether the federal government has done enough to help the industry, with little help for third party providers and airports. When the sector recovers, will there be enough skilled professionals left to get us moving again?
Finally, the team chat about the progress of Loyal Wingman, and ponder whether it could open the door to a wave of investment in UAVs over the next decade.
As Australia’s aviation industry tinkered on the brink in March, Virgin chief executive Paul Scurrah had to contend with not just COVID, but trying to save the company from liquidation.
Now, after an exhausting six months, he appears on the Australian Aviation Podcast to discuss just how he managed to keep Virgin alive – and its comeback strategy.
In particular, he reveals what he thinks went wrong in the past, why it’s right for the airline not to become a low-cost carrier, and how both the administrator and new owner bought into the existing team’s plan.
Plus, in a world where we’re all comfortable doing deals on Zoom, he argues domestic travel, and the industry, can bounce back to where it was before the pandemic.
Crisis? What crisis! As COVID-19 paralyses the industry, regional carrier Rex has announced it’s on the brink of receiving $150 million in investment to launch flights between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane as soon as next March.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, host Phil Tarrant and regular guest Adam Thorn discuss whether the carrier is shrewd or stupid to strike Qantas at a time of such instability?
Plus, this week Air New Zealand boss Greg Foran declared that we need to learn to live with COVID-19, and not just hope a vaccine comes riding to our rescue. It marks the latest in a long line of big-name players in the industry who are advocating a more long-term strategy. But will governments listen and finally start opening borders?
Finally, with APAC becoming a more unstable place politically, how are the military and RAAF responding? Could the pandemic inadvertently bring about a revolution in how we see our fighter jets?
Hawker Pacific is one of the leading aircraft sales and support companies in APAC, and one of the largest independent companies of its type in the region with 800 employees.
In this special episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, host Phil Tarrant talks to the business’ Vice President, Middle East and APAC, Ian D'Arcy, about RBI Hawker, a collaboration between Hawker and Bell that specialises in rotor blade repair.
D'Arcy talks about the plan to bring a true home base to Australia after 15 years’ experience in Dubai while looking at launching satellite operations in countries such as Papua New Guinea. He talks through the challenges and opportunities, and how the market is changing.
Last week, the sale of Virgin was finally complete after a months-long administration process that had enough twists and turns to script a whodunnit. But now Bain’s deal has been rubber-stamped, what exactly is going to happen moving forward?
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, host Phil Tarrant and regular guest Adam Thorn talk through the story behind the final week of the sale. Why did Branson break his silence? Are the TWU really supportive? And how on earth has chief executive Paul Scurrah managed to not only keep his job but get everyone to buy into his revival plan?
They also discuss strong comments from the CEO of Melbourne Airport, who has said the country shouldn’t wait for a vaccine to open international borders.
Finally, amid the gloom, Sydney’s new international airport now has some firm dates for construction work to start. The team discuss why the long-term outlook for aviation, post-COVID-19, is still strong.
In July, Australia limited the number of people who could arrive back into the country to manage the flow into hotel quarantine. The problem is, the decision has pushed up prices to eye-popping levels and reduced availability.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, host Phil Tarrant and regular guest Adam Thorn discuss how this slow-burn story has exploded in the last seven days. They examine what the options are, the industry’s collective position and whether the government will restart its repatriation program to assist.
They also discuss Friday’s now not-so-crunch meeting to decide the future of Virgin, where creditors will get to vote on quite how new owners Bain should take over.
Finally – while our industry might be shrinking on the surface, it’s also going through a period of exciting change. Just how long then, until we switch our Fords for flying cars?
In amongst the border closures, groundings and rows, it can be easy to forget the impact of COVID-19 on airline pilots themselves, who have found their industry has effectively shut down.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant and Christian “Boo” Boucousis speak to Mark Sedgwick, the executive director of Australian and International Pilots Association, about how pilots are adapting to the new normal.
He discusses why states should sign up to a national framework on border closures, how many of his members have found work elsewhere and why he has worked hard to build a good relationship with the Qantas Group.
He also tells long-time friend Boo what advice he would give to governments trying to protect the profession for the next generation.
Despite many Aussie citizens struggling to get home from overseas under the tightly capped limits of new arrivals in each state, the government has announced a pilot program to resume international student flights to Adelaide in September.
In this week's episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, host Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn discuss the impetus for this controversial move, as well as the latest developments in the tumultuous Virgin Australia saga, with tensions bubbling over between Bain, bondholders and the TWU.
Tune in to hear about noise complaints stemming from the new Brisbane runway and a Gold Coast joy flight business respectively, a step back for Air New Zealand as it cuts Auckland flights, Alliance launching new routes, and a Queensland rescue mission gone wrong.
Despite initially indicating it wouldn’t have to go to shareholders for money, Sydney Airport has now asked shareholders to pitch in $2 billion to help it through the challenges brought on by the pandemic.
With Qantas only raising a fraction of its $500 million goal and border restrictions hitting both organisations quite hard, will the airport see the kind of enthusiasm it needs from shareholders to reduce debt and increase liquidity?
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn discuss Qatar Airways’ growing influence in the wake of gushing praise from senior politicians, the Prime Minister's changed stance on state border closures, and the upsurge in intrastate travel to regional holiday hubs.
They also talk about Virgin's surprisingly modest staff cut, Exercise Pitch Black going virtual, the government's investment into a new drone development program, and Dnata donating hundreds of thousands of uneaten meals to charity.
Gary Criddle's remarkable career has seen him work as a pilot for the Royal Australian Navy, RAAF as well as commercially, where he has flown 767s and A380s. He's also practised as an examiner, specialising in both air show display flying and warbirds.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Gary joins hosts Phil Tarrant and Christian "Boo" Boucousis to talk about his earliest aviation memory, his transition from seaman officer to aviator with the Navy, and the difference between military and commercial pilot training.
He gives an insight into what the flight examination process is actually like, outlines his preparation routine for getting into the zone on flying days, and reveals his hairiest flying experience to date.
At the start of July, the federal government announced a $270 billion commitment to defence spending for the coming decade, and a new holistic strategy for dealing with an increasingly uncertain world in the Indo-Pacific.
In this exclusive interview, the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld, AO, DSC, gives host Phil Tarrant the inside story on how his team is rethinking what a modern air force should look like - and how it can better collaborate with other elements of the ADF and government to drive change.
AIRMSHL Hupfeld lifts the lid on working with artificial intelligence on the Loyal Wingman platform, "robust" conversations with his counterparts in the Navy and Army on an integrated military, the drive towards a fifth-gen fighting force and how the lesson from COVID-19 must be to shore up global supply chains.
He also talks candidly about his love of flying, his journey into the top job in the RAAF, and how he can't wait to get out in his Airtourer and P-51 Mustang in the near future.
Tension between two industry groups has come to a head as airports accuse airlines of neglecting to pass on their government bailouts by not paying various fees.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn speculate over whether airports will eventually get paid and discuss Brisbane Airport's CEO's gloomy forecast for recovery.
Tune in to hear all about a report against REX for an uncompetitive new route, an exact breakdown of how much is owed to Virgin creditors, and the last ever take-off of a Qantas 747 from Australian soil.
The latest development in the Virgin Australia saga has unhappy bondholders confirming they will put their offer to creditors next month, despite Bain having already pumped millions into the airline to keep it afloat over the last few months.
Join hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and Adam Thorn as they recap this week's headlines on the Australian Aviation Podcast, including Brisbane's brand new billion-dollar runway, saying goodbye to the Qantas 747, and a changing of the guard at CASA.
In this episode they'll also touch on a new Microsoft flight simulator program, the cause of the recent R44 rash in WA, and NSW's investment into an electric flying car testing facility.
Just as interstate flights were set to begin ramping up, Victoria has been hit by a second spike of COVID-19, borders are locked down, and a badly handled quarantine policy appears to be at the root of it.
In this episode of Australian Aviation, hosts Phil Tarrant and Adam Thorn delve into the implications of the lockdown on domestic travel, new developments in the Virgin saga, and Qantas’ early retirement of its 'Queen of the Skies' 747.
They also talk about the likelihood of an extension to JobKeeper, a tragic R44 helicopter crash, Air New Zealand halting inbound international bookings, and the establishment of a new domestic route from Canberra to Ballina.
Qantas has been slammed by the TWU for not waiting for more clarity around the future of JobKeeper before announcing it will axe about 20% of its staff. Is the controversial decision in the best interest of the airline and its employees?
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Boo Boucousis and Adam Thorn discuss Alan Joyce's response to the criticism as well as the changes to the airline's business lounges as domestic travel is set to ramp back up.
They touch on the latest around Virgin's preferred bidder, the chair's criticism of the company's former CEO, and REX's talk about getting into the domestic game after begging for a bail-out just a few months ago.
After weeks of good news, mixed messaging between state and federal governments is spooking consumers.
In this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and Adam Thorn delve into a minister's hint around keeping international borders closed, Australia's acquirement of its third Triton, and an "unsettling" development in the Virgin saga.
They discuss the ACCC's crack down on dissatisfied Qantas customers, Avalon Airport's security upgrade investment, and a Melbourne-based medical drone company that have capitalised on the current crisis.
With talk of flights resuming over the next couple of weeks, the final two bidders for Virgin Australia are proposing a "hybrid" model for the airline, placing it somewhere between Qantas' premium offerings and Jetstar's budget fares.
Tune in to this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast to hear feedback from the regional airport sector in response to $40 million of upgrades, and uncertainty around JobKeeper among airline administration and unions.
Hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and Adam Thorn also discuss a story about a miraculous teen pilot crash, Qatar's dramatic market share increase, and new RAAF drone innovation.
As Australia waited for the National Cabinet to announce the return of flying, Alan Joyce seized the initiative early and revealed he'll hugely increase capacity in July. But will his plan be profitable?
Host Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and Adam Thorn share their insights as to whether or not demand will be there. They'll also discuss events across the ditch, where New Zealand has declared victory against coronavirus and dropped social distancing. What does this mean for the future of international travel and border reopenings?
Finally, the team also chat about whether The Buffet bailed too early by selling his airline shares; the demise of Delta's McDonnell Douglas Mad Dogs; and the world's largest electric plane.
The fight for Virgin is wrapping up, with the two shortlisted bidders left in the running preparing to make their case to both the administrator and to the union.
Hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and Adam Thorn share their insights as to who will try to forge alliances with the final two, how the Queensland government fits into the picture, and what this means for the location of Virgin HQ.
They delve into how Alliance is looking to create local jobs in Queensland, Qantas' contentious acquisition move without clearance from the ACCC, and the re-opening of Canberra Airport.
Tune into this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast to hear about the sentiment among the airport sector around COVID-19 impacts, the international export of a Noosa-built fire tank, and the maiden flight of the first ever US-made Airbus plane.
Despite the ongoing state feud about the appropriate time to open borders back up, sentiment among the industry is positive, with Qantas raring to go as soon as they're given the green light and bidding for Virgin to be finalised by this Friday.
On this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and Adam Thorn recap the not-so-confidential front runners in the fight for Virgin, the latest on JobKeeper and JobMaker eligibility in the aviation sector, and Air New Zealand's strong footing in the current crisis.
They reflect on research revealing a 20-year high for aerial firefighting safety incidents, a new low-cost carrier launching in Japan next week, and fresh attempts to build a helipad on Sydney's Sofitel.
The shortlist of bidders on Virgin Australia appears to have been whittled down to four, but with the state border closure debate heating up and uncertainty still clouding the future of the airline, how will this saga unfold?
On this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian 'Boo' Boucousis and Adam Thorn reflect on the latest news in the fight for Virgin, Qantas' optimistic outlook and wellbeing plan for the impending relaxation of regulations, and confusion around Rex's positioning in the current crisis.
They also discuss Alliance Airlines' increased financial year profits, recent stats on Sydney's April passenger numbers, and some tragic news for the aviation sector this week.
As restrictions ease, airlines are - slowly and with baby steps - starting to take to the skies for recreational travel. Air New Zealand became one of the first, as the country moved from 'Level 3' to 'Level 2' rules that meant Kiwis are now encouraged to leave their homes and see friends and family.
Host Phil Tarrant and Australian Aviation's Adam Thorn talk about exactly what the flying experience under the 'new normal' will be like - with social distancing on board, touchless kiosks and no tickets checked at the terminal entrance.
They'll also discuss an unprecedented war of words between the Federal Government and the state of Queensland, which threw its hat into the ring for control of a reborn Virgin Australia. Is there a motive beyond simply saving Brisbane jobs and is Richard Branson, one of the last big beasts of aviation, lurking in the background?
The competition is fierce amongst potential buyers for Virgin Australia, but how is the current uncertainty around flights as well as threats from Alan Joyce going to affect the sale getting over the line?
Hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and Adam Thorn unpack the latest news around Virgin's bidding war on this episode of the Australian Aviation Podcast.
Tune in to hear about the Royal Australian Air Force's new fifth-gen aircraft, the opportunities it presents for the local defence industry, and the general attitude of military aviation towards this kind of technology.
They reflect on whether China's new stealth bomber is merely a propaganda exercise, concerns around aviation business' eligibility for government relief, and a remarkable story about an aviation legend who celebrated New Years Eve on two continents.
Dubbed "Australia's most sacred place" by Prime Minister Scott Morrison in his recent Anzac Day address, the Australian War Memorial is the nation's tribute to the courage and sacrifice of generations of men and women who served in war.
On this special episode of Australian Aviation, host Phil Tarrant is joined by Matthew Anderson to discuss his pathway to being appointed the War Memorial's director just a few weeks ago, how the institution fared on facilitating a remote commemoration of Anzac Day, and his priorities over the coming months in his new role.
Matthew explains how his team are navigating the disruptive environment of COVID-19, why the $498 million slated for the landmark's development is critical for the local economy, and how the Australian defence industry can be more involved in supporting the War Memorial's objectives.
Virgin Australia has had a particularly turbulent couple of days, from initially demanding a federal government bail-out, to state government hostility over the location of their HQ, to collapsing into voluntary administration.
Tune in to this week's Australian Aviation to hear host Phil Tarrant and senior writer Adam Thorn discuss the overall sentiment around Virgin Australia right now, why the Morrison Government was so reluctant to bail it out, and what we know about the 10 suitors that are looking at recapitalising the airline.
Phil and Adam also reflect on the latest news around REX, Qantas and Air New Zealand's responses to the COVID-19 crisis.
While the coronavirus crisis has effectively crippled the aviation sector for the time being, the long-term effects on the industry once the regulations begin to ease still remains relatively unclear.
On this episode of Australian Aviation, your hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and senior writer Adam Thorn delve into Virgin's public fight for survival and stories of industry resilience and initiative in working around current restrictions.
They also get philosophical about the implications of the rapid shift to a remote workforce on domestic and international travel in the wake of COVID-19.
While the federal government has responded to the airline sector with billions of dollars’ worth of support, the struggle of small aviation businesses through the devastating COVID-19 crisis remain largely unrecognised. Businesses that were already financially strained due to the cost of keeping up with existing regulation are now in even direr straights.
CEO of Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Benjamin Morgan joins host Phil Tarrant and Christian "Boo" Boucousis to delve into the crippling effect of coronavirus on the Australian aviation industry as a whole and outline the action that needs to be taken by the government and these smaller businesses to gear them up for recovery when the current situation dissipates.
On this episode, Benjamin also unpacks the somewhat unsavory motivation behind the recent closure of a Canberra Airport cross runway and how it is reflective of a wider issue that is pervading the Australian airport sector.
COVID-19 is undeniably the biggest upset the aviation sector has ever seen and the Australian government is providing some hefty bail-outs to our airlines, but is it enough to keep the industry afloat?
Host Phil Tarrant and senior writer Adam Thorn unpack everything you need to know about the pandemic's effect on Australian aviation, including attitudes around the timely go ahead given to Project Sunrise, the rollercoaster REX journey over the past week, and criticism from the ground-handling industry claiming neglect from the government.
Tune in to hear the latest news around Qantas' fluctuating share price, the rising tension between two of our major carriers, and some positive milestones for our aviation sector.
In the last week, a dramatic ramping up of social distancing, travel bans and state lockdowns have forced airlines to stand down the majority of their staff. But amid the chaos, what's next for Australia's aviation industry?
On this episode of the podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Christian "Boo" Boucousis and senior writer Adam Thorn reflect on the latest airline announcements, including Virgin Australia standing down 80% of its staff, Qantas' soaring share price, and REX's unique approach to demanding a bail-out.
They discuss the long road to recovery predicted for international flights, the ongoing collaboration between unions and airlines, and the now booming maintenance and storage sector of the industry.
On this episode of the Australian Aviation podcast, host Phil Tarrant and senior writer Adam Thorn delve into the continued impact of COVID-19.
They recap the latest news around deep cuts to international and domestic capacity by national carriers, share prices dropping, and how regional travel is being affected.
Phil and Adam discuss how the airlines are juggling maintaining a workforce while ensuring their cash flow is sufficient, reflect on Qantas' proactive leadership, and share the predicted impact on the sector once the crisis is over.
The coronavirus pandemic is undoubtedly having a substantial impact on the aviation sector, with staff and passenger safety, employment and share prices all areas of significant concern moving forward. Australian airlines have already scaled back their services and according to industry experts, this is likely to continue.
On this episode of the podcast, your hosts Phil Tarrant and Christian "Boo" Boucousis are joined by senior writer for Australian Aviation Adam Thorn to discuss the latest news surrounding the impacts of COVID-19 on the industry.
They also detail the findings of the recent Ethiopian investigation into Boeing's 737 Max crash and share the amusing story of an installation in a Tampa airport arrivals hall.
On this episode of the podcast, your hosts Phil Tarrant and Christian "Boo" Boucousis usher in a new era for the Australian Aviation brand under Momentum Media.
Phil and Boo outline the focus of the brand for 2020 and beyond, the key stakeholders in the aviation community, and the major initiatives that are shaping the sector at the moment.
They delve into the meaning of "situational awareness", how they plan to engage industry experts to explain the implications of current aviation issues, and Boo shares his experience of his very first solo flight.
What happens when you apply aviation to your technical career? Meet John and Rodney from Simulator Solutions, who are giving 747 cockpits a new lease in life building flight simulators. You can read more about Simulator Solutions here: https://simulatorsolutions.com.au/
What's it like being the CEO of an airport? Chris links it closely to the proverb 'you give up the right to have a bad day'. Chris shares anecdotes from his time working in business, property development and tourism, from which he found his true love with aviation and the airport industry. We speak to Chris about the future of aviation, its thrills and its challenges.
Listen in as two ex-fighter pilots and good friends sit down to share stories about serving in the Air Force, and speak about Plattsy's most recent career move as Head of Cargo at Heathrow Airport
In this episode, Boo sits down with Natasha Santha from L.E.K. Consulting to address the concerns, curiosities, and complexities of the large scale operation to bring aerial ride sharing to our major cities. Recent developments suggest that by 2023 we will have the ability to skip time-critical and congested routes by opting for an aerial ride-sharing service.
What is the difference between learning to fly and becoming a pilot? We get to the bottom of it with Joel Haski and Jared Parker from The Aerobatic School
Welcome to the third and final instalment in our three-part series, covering the Aviation Australia Expo in Brisbane. Covering everything from mechanical engineering and cabin crew training, our guest host Mic Cullen wraps up our series speaking to FLTLT Melinda Russell and FLTLT John Harrington from RAAF. They're joined by QantasLink captain and Assistant Flight Training Manager Danica Henderson, who shares her thoughts on the Dash-8 Q200 and Q300 variants in Australia and New Zealand.
Listen in as our guest host Mic Cullen takes you through our second episode in the three-part series from the Aviation Australia "Aviation Expo" in Brisbane, held in August 2019. We take a deep dive into mechanical engineering, with Charlie Mifsud and Neil Delarue, the hugely experienced licenced aircraft maintenance engineers (LAMEs).
Welcome to the first episode in our three-part series from the Aviation Australia's "Aviation Expo" in Brisbane. Boasting one of the best aviation training centres in the state, we take a closer look at the people and power behind Aviation Australia as guest host Mic Cullen chats to VIP speakers, educators and guests. This week, you'll hear Mic speak to Cameron Dick, the Queensland Minister for State Development, about how the training facility at Brisbane Airport has met the demand for skills in the aviation sector. Plus, we hear from Aviation Australia's Cindy Doran and Alan Scaide on cabin crew training and lifestyle. For those who are looking at taking up a career in aviation, Mic perfectly unpacks what it takes to be a part of the industry and hones in on the importance of teamwork and the right skillset.
We often have the pleasure of interviewing pilots or students. This time, we delve into what it's like to work on the ground and in the tower. Both serving incredibly important roles towards the everyday operations of our industry, Clarence Schofield, and his father Colin, share a mutual love for aviation and an Aussie 'can-do' spirit. Now retired, Colin shares his stories on what it was like working for Qantas as a Tug Driver, as he led aircraft to and from terminals and maintenance areas.
We're looking forward to bringing you more international aviation content and introducing guests from around the world. But first, we would love for you to get acquainted with Australian Aviation's very own boss- Christian Boucousis, call-sign 'Boo'. Usually you'll find Boo in front of the camera, behind the mic as our podcast host or thinking about our next Good Kit article. This time, he got the pleasure to sit down as a guest, speaking to Kerwin Rae about his very own experiences with business and aviation. For those who are wanting to learn the habits of great leadership, or needing a moment to reset, debrief and plan- take a listen to this very special podcast.
In today's Father's Day Series Podcast, we're chatting to Steve Wallace and his daughter Bernadette. The phrase 'the apple doesn't fall far from the tree' couldn't be truer for this duo, with Steve nurturing his daughter's love for aviation from a very young age. Dinner time was never dull in the Wallace household. With Steve lining up cutlery to create runways and salt + pepper shakers to symbolise the aircraft, you can imagine his storytelling was quite a hit with the kids. Bernadette's earliest memory of aviation stems from her experience in the co-pilot seat, whilst her father worked alongside Mission Australia servicing Indigenous communities in Arnhem Land. Bringing passengers in for appointments and shopping trips and flying community members between homelands ensured that every day was different for Bernadette and her father. Now a Senior Base Pilot at the Royal Flying Doctor Service Brisbane Base, Steve's daily schedule still remains a surprise each day he clocks into work. Recently completing her Bachelor of Aviation, Bernadette is looking to fly high with her upcoming career working at a local flight school. Take a listen to find out more about how Bernadette finds her wings and how Steve found his!
We're really excited to launch the inaugural WOFA Podcast. What's WOFA? The World of Aviation! We're launching a new digital aviation channel to bring you unique insights from around the world. For those in Australia, Father's Day is quickly approaching and to celebrate, we're rolling out a series of podcasts to hear how some very special dads have influenced their sons and daughters in the aviation world! In today's podcast we're chatting to Peter Weekes, call-sign "Weeksey". Peter is formerly an Air Traffic Controller, Fighter Pilot, Fighter Weapons Instructor and currently a First Officer with Tigerair. We share Peter's stories growing up with his father John Weekes, an airline pilot with a career spanning TAA, Asiana Airways, Lauda Air and Singapore Airlines, from F27's the Boeing 777. Peter's brother David Weekes is also a Boeing 737 Captain with Virgin Australia, who is testament to aviation running deep in their veins. We hope you enjoy the first of many WOFA Podcasts and stay tuned to more from the Father's Day series over the coming weeks!
Today on the show we have something a little different. Our guest is Greg Shaw from Flight Disruptions. As you would know, the aviation industry employs thousands of people and not all of them are pilots. When your bags are lost or your flight is cancelled then Greg and his team are the people that bring order to the chaos of getting you and a couple hundred other people along with their luggage to the hotel while you all wait for your next flight! This is a great Aussie business success story about a person from the industry that spotted a gap in the market and had a go at plugging it, and you know what, it worked! Find out more about Flight Disruptions at their website: https://flightdisruptions.com/ Subscribe to Australian Aviation: https://australianaviation.com.au/subscribe-2/ Today's show is brought to you by: https://homeofaviation.com/
Today on the Australian Aviation podcast we are joined by Eskil Amdal - callsign Taz and the owner of Australian Aviation Christian Boucousis. Many of you would know that Boo served in the Royal Australian Air Force as a Hornet pilot but you may not know that he also did an exchange to the UK with the RAF where he served in 11 squadron flying the Tornado. Boo and Taz met in the RAF where Taz was also on exchange from the Norwegian Air Force and that is the connection between the two gentlemen. Taz has enjoyed an amazing career in the Norwegian Air Force and if you have ever wanted to become an air force pilot or were even just a little bit curious about where it could take you then you are going to absolutely love this podcast. Taz has flown more than 100 different aircraft types and is also a graduate of the USN test pilot school. He shares with us what its like to fly the viper and the JSF but also gives us some great background on the F104 starfighter as well some of the other warbirds that he has flown. Taz has only just left the military and is now one of the test pilots for Airbus, and get this, he had to get qualified on the Eurofighter as part of his job at Airbus - now is that cool or what! Today's podcast is brought to you by: https://homeofaviation.com
On today's episode we have an interview with Brett Anderson from Anderson Aviation. We are also joined by his New Zealand counter part Martin Henton as well as John Rathmell from the United States. We met up at the Annual celebration of Aviation which was held at Rylstone Aerodrome Airpark which is about 40 minutes to an hour of flying time from Bankstown airport in NSW. Brett, Martin and John are all distributors of Bristell Aircraft and we discuss what makes these beautiful looking planes so special. To find out more about Bristell visit: https://andersonaviation.com.au/ Today's podcast is brought to you by https://homeofaviation.com
Today on the podcast we are joined by Captain Geoff Hay. Like many of us Geoff had a fulfilling career prior to becoming a full time aviator. Geoff trained and practised as a nurse and he has worked extensively in the operating theatre. Recently Geoff released his first book on Human Factors called “Ladies and Gentlemen this is your Surgeon speaking” Its a creative title and the book takes a look at modern day pilot training, particularly in the area of 'Human Factors' or the science of 'why we do what we do.’ Geoff examines how humans perform under stress in terms of decision making, teamwork, leadership, situational awareness and communication? Purchase on Amazon: amzn.to/2VXV2cR Purchase on Booktopia: bit.ly/2EqkSLW Connect with Geoff here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-hay-67622096/
Well it's airshow time again and this time we headed to the Wings Over Illawarra airshow located Wollongong Airport just an hour south of Sydney. We were treated to some impressive aerobatics and handling displays from Paul Bennett in his Wolf Pitts Pro as well as the Sky Aces team. Matt Hall was also at the show flying in his Extra as well as part of the Mustang formation display which didn't disappoint. Speaking of warbirds, there was a wide variety of on display. There was Spitfires, the Hurricane, Kittyhawks a Sabre and more. I can't help but think that we are really spoilt here in Australia with such a diverse array of flying warbirds available to please the crowds. The ADF, who are always a big supporter of the Wings Over Illawarra airshow, also put on some fantastic displays. There was a great formation display with the new PC21s in the Roulettes colours. As you probably know there is a transition period as the PC21s take over the PC9s and crowds can expect a new Roulettes display later this year once all of the team are properly qualified and their work ups complete. What we did see at the airshow was a faster and much louder display and you could really see the difference in performance compared with the PC9s that we have all become so familiar with. The best way I can describe the PC21 demo is it is a beefed up version of the PC9s and was a real pleasure to watch. The other Air Force assets in attendance and that flew displays were the Spartan, the Herc a C17 a P8 Posiden and the Hawk 127. The navy also showcased the Seahawk and there was a Tipan on display which seemed to be a real favourite for all the kids! Here at Australian Aviation we are lucky to get insider access to all the wonderful people behind the show and it was a pleasure to catch up with many familiar faces and meet and speak with some new ones as well. Before we get into the podcast I just want to give a big shout out and huge thank you to the RAAF PR team who were so helpful and gracious in organising the ADF members who were very busy throughout. We also appreciate the amazing incockpit video from both the PC21s and the Hawk, so a big thanks to the RAAF and the ADF folks that helped us out. Ok lets get into the interviews and we'll kick it off with none other than Matt Hall.
today on the show I'm joined by Arron Mathis. Aaron is a line captain on the CRJ 200 / 700 and 900 and He works for PSA Airlines which is a wholey owned subsidiary of American Airlines. We enjoyed a wide ranging interview and discussed his progression into the airlines. the state of the industry in the US and what it means to him to have the job that he always dreamed about. I wanted to record this podcast to give our listeners and viewers a real world real time view of the aviation industry in the US. If you're a pilot early on in your career and have thought of going to the US to see if you can build your hours or kick off your airline career then I think you're really going to love what Aaron has to say about it all. Today's show is brought to you by the https://homeofaviation.com Here at Australian Aviation we recognise that we are the hub for industry news and wanted to share our website and social traffic back with the industry to help them to find more customers so we have been working hard behind the scenes and have created a brand new initiative called the home of aviation. Today's show is brought to you by: https://homeofaviation.com Get your AA Sub here: https://australianaviation.com.au/subscribe-2/ Follow Aaron on Insta here: https://www.instagram.com/aaaronair/ Learn more about PSA Airlines here: https://www.psaairlines.com/
We sat down with FLTLT John Tauschke and discussed his 27-year career in the Royal Australian Airforce as a pilot of the VIP jets in 35 SQN, flying the DHC-4 Caribou, the PC-9 and the transition to the PC-21. We also discussed the last magic carpet ride for the PC-9 and what the transition to the new era of training and training aids with the PC-21 means for the RAAF. To learn more about a job in the ADF as a pilot visit: https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/ or call 13 19 01
Fast cars and military machines seem to go together really well especially when it is Formula-1 weekend in Melbourne. Listen in as we speak with the demo pilots flying the C17 the F18 and an engineer who is along with the MH60R. To find out more about a career in the ADF visit: https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/ or call 13 19 01.
Day-5 of the Avalon Airshow saw some more amazing flying displays with thousands of people filing through the gates to get their fix of aviation. This is the last podcast in the Avalon Airshow series. We ended with a bang with the Commanding Officers of 1 SQN 2 OCU and 3 SQN. It was a fantastic conversation and I was joined by my co host, who is also a former fighter pilot Christian Boucousis. Enjoy the interview and don't forget to subscribe and share the show.
Its day-4 of the Avalon Airshow and the final morning of the trade show. The gates will open at 2pm to the general public and the flying displays kick off shortly after. Even though it was a much shorter day we still managed to sit down with several podcast guests including the Lieut Col Kieran Joyce who is in charge of the Army Unmanned Aerial Systems. I also sat down with the world champion drone racer Tom Matta. Listen in to the interviews and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast via your favourite podcasting app and most of all don’t forget to share it around your network.
Day-3 of the Avalon Airshow has been a lot bigger than the previous 2 with many more people filing through the gates. We saw some amazing flying displays from the F-35 Lightning and the USAF F-22 Raptor and at the end of the F-35 demo the 2 jets formed up and gave us a couple of amazing passes and 1st time photo opportunities. Later in the day a global hawk arrived from Guam. It landed perfectly, taxied in and it was parked up down the far end of the aerodrome on display. In terms of podcasts I sat down with another 6 guests including Dick Smith to talk about MH370 as well as Neale Prescott ad Ray Cage from Lockheed Martin Australia. Listen to the interviews and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and share it around your network. https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-au/index.html https://www.raytheon.com/au https://www.cubic.com/ https://www.thedecisivepoint.com.au/
Its day 2 of the Avalon airshow and boy oh boy its been a big one with some really big announcements especially for the Australian defence industry. Earlier today, the 27th of February 2019 defence minister Christoper Pyne revealed the existence of the first high performing military aircraft to be designed and developed in Australia in more than 6 decades. The ATS or the Air Power Teaming System is designed and developed by the Boeing Phantom Works Australian team. It is a fighter sized autonomous and unmanned system designed to operate with manned systems as a loyal wingman. Also announced today was the largest ever drone order in history for STEM related drones. We sat down with Jack Cullen from JAR Aerospace to discuss what it means for his business and the future development of the Australian Air Force Cadets. I sat down with 7 guests including Air Commodore Phil Gordon who is the commander of the Air Warfare Centre as well as Carley Scott from Equatorial Launch Australia who are building Australia’s first space port.
The Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition is one of Asia-Pacific's most prestigious aviation and aerospace events and the most comprehensive aviation, aerospace and defence exposition in the southern hemisphere. The team at Australian Aviation have been working hard covering the event, writing the show dailies and reporting on all of the announcements. We sat down with Andrew McLaughlin, Mark Jessop and Lea Vesic to discuss what the airshow means to them and what to expect over the coming week. You can connect with the guests below below: W: https://www.adbr.com.au E: andrew@felix.net.au Insta: markjphoto LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leavesic/
In Part 3 of "Clear the Air" we discuss the mistakes that people make in their job interviews. Listen in as Kirsty Ferguson from Pinstripe Solutions explains how to manage the expectations in the interview, how to gain an edge over the other applicants and exactly what you can do as an applicant that will give you the best chance of success. https://www.pinstripesolutions.com/
In Part 2 of "Clear the Air" we speak with Kirsty Ferguson and discuss the interview process that people going for their first airline jobs have to go through. Listen in as Kirsty explains how the process works, what to expect and how you can gain a competitive edge over the other applicants. https://www.pinstripesolutions.com/
On part 1 of "Clear the Air" we discuss the pilot shortage with Kirsty Ferguson from Pinstripe Solutions. Is there really a shortage of people or is a shortage of skills and experience or is it both? Kirsty is an industry insider with a deep understanding of what it takes to help candidates achieve their first airline job. Listen in as she explains her view of the industry. https://www.pinstripesolutions.com/
Welcome to the final Australian Aviation podcast for 2018. On today’s show, we take a look back at the year that was with 3 guests. Hearing 3 different perspectives from 3 very different segments of the aviation industry is really interesting and it’s great to hear about the positive outlook for 2019 that all of our guests have. We spoke with: Rob Hibberd from Airborne Australia. Rob gives us a great perspective from the microlight, ultralight and gyro side of aviation. He also shares a little of how manufacturing and exports are tracking for Airborne Australia. Next up is Nicholas Christie from Sport Aircraft Sales. Nicholas has his finger well on the pulse of what people are buying and selling and also gives a really great insight into the status of the industry only this time from a buying and selling perspective. Finally, we have Michael Linke who is the CEO of RAAus. As the RAAus membership base grows Michael shares a look back at 2018 and what to expect for 2019. It's been a huge year for all aviation sectors. What was your favourite and most memorable moment? Let's kick it off with Rob Hibberd from Airborne Australia.
Today on the podcast we are joined by Captain Michelle Huntington.Michelle is a 737-800 pilot who flies with Virgin Australia. Here at Australian Aviation, we were lucky enough to spend the day with her while we were filming a feature on the day in the life of a Virgin Australia airline pilot. Like many career aviators, Michelle started out as an instructor and her first airline job was with Rex flying the SAAB 340. Michelle was a latecomer to aviation and accelerated her way through the learning process achieving her ATPL in just 12 months. Talk about working hard for it! There are some funny stories in this interview, and I’m sure that you’ll agree that strapping a 7-year old Michelle to a Mirage and taking her out for some aeros and low levels makes for some interesting first memories of aviation as a young person. It was a pleasure to have her on the show, and for all of those folks out there that follow us in social media keep your eye out in Facebook for the feature video coming up shortly. Please help me in welcoming Captain Michelle Huntington.
We were joined on the Australian Aviation podcast by Mark Robinson from Frequentis. Mark is a 20 year veteran of both the Royal Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force. In his military career as an air traffic controller, Mark was lucky enough to be deployed several times including to the conflict in Bosnia in the 1990s on the HMS Ark Royal. Mark also deploy a couple of times over in the sand pit in Iraq. Mark is the lead Business Development manager for the Australia NZ region for Frequentis. His involvement in the business is quite broad however today’s podcast has a focus on Remote Virtual Towers and Aeronautical Information Management solutions. It’s fascinating to hear about the evolution of technology in this space. Listen in as Mark shares a snapshot of what the future of ATC looks like.
We were joined on the Australian Aviation podcast by Michel Verheem. In 2007 Michel was on a landmark personal development course and he was tasked with setting up a community event. After a series of things not playing out the way that he wanted for his original idea, he decided that organising an aviation-based event for sick and underprivileged kids was the way to go. As you listen to Michel’s story, I think you will agree, that he really did underestimate the strength of the Australian Aviation community. When the local Aero Clubs and pilots heard all about the event they rallied behind the cause and the first Fun Flight was borne. Fast forward to today and thousands of kids have been take for their first flight in a light plane and in many cases their first flight ever. Aero Clubs, aircraft owners and pilots all across the country have supported the cause over the years and Fun Flight has brought a lot of joy to both the children and parents alike. I was also lucky enough to speak with Julia Sawer whose son Blair suffers from cerebral palsy. Blair and his family live near Warnervale airport in NSW and he loves nothing more that spotting all the GA movements nearby, so when he was given the opportunity to fly with Fun Flight it really was a dream come true for him. Listen in as both Michel and Julia talk about their experience.
Today we are joined on the Australian Aviation podcast bu Steve Hui from iFly Flat. Now you might have a credit card in your wallet or purse that has a frequent flyer program associated with it but do you really know the fine print. Do you understand the ins and outs of redeeming the points and actually using them for flights. Well if you’ve ever amassed enough points to actually qualify for a flight you might find that it is actually quite hard to find one because only so many seats per flight are allocated to frequent flyers. It’s not that you can’t redeem points, you might find it really difficult to find a flight where you can actually use them at the time you want to use them going to the place you want to travel. On top of all of that it is very time consuming to search for the flights and you really do need to know where to look for them. Listen in as Steve shares with us how iFly Flat helps consumers make the most of their frequent flyer points and exactly how they can maximise the opportunities that they present.
We were joined on the Australian Aviation podcast by Lee de Winton who is the chief executive of Sydney Metro Airports which encompasses both Bankstown and Camden airports. de Willton started out in the Royal Navy as a radar plotter and eventually went on to earn a commission and become a fully qualified Air Traffic Controller both in the Royal Navy and eventually in the RAAF. Here in the Sydney basin there is a lot happening with the development of the new Western Sydney Airport and now with the release of the master plan for Bankstown Airport, so it was timely to catch up with de Wilton to discuss what the master plan means, what we can expect for the future and how the community can offer feedback and get involved. Listen in as de Wilton shares with us what we can expect from the master plan and what the future holds for Australia’s largest and busiest general aviation airport. If you’d like to offer some feedback on the master plan you can do so by: Visiting: https://www.sydneymetroairports.com.au Emailing: MP2019@SMAirports.com.au Writing to: PO BOX 6450 Wetherill Park NSW 1851
We were joined on the Australian Aviation podcast by Ted Ingling who is Program General Manager for the GE9X. Ted started out life as a car mechanic and moved onto engineering and ultimately into aviation. He’s worked at GE for more than 38 years and has seen incredible development and innovation throughout that time. The G9X is the biggest, most powerful and most fuel efficient engine ever created by GE. The technology, skill and manpower that goes into creating a project such as this is truly inspirational. The G9X has completed 2 of its 3 critical milestones which are static testing and the initial flight testing. The final milestone is marrying the engine to the new 777X airframe which will happen very soon indeed. Listen in as Ted shares his deep knowledge in a simple and easy to understand manner on the most exciting engine project in GE’s history.
Today on the podcast we are joined by Graham Millett who is the CEO of the new Western Sydney Airport. As listeners you would know it has been a very long road to breaking ground on the Badgerys Creek location. In fact a second the second Sydney airport was first flagged in the 1940’s. It was talked about, planned and then shelved by a succession of politicians and their governments. After facing the worst possible headlines and statements from politicians and journalists such as ‘The second airport will never be built’ and ‘Sydney doesn’t need a second airport’ ground was finally broken on September 24th 2018 and construction began on the much needed second Sydney airport began. As you can appreciate this is a massive infrastructure project and new airports like these don’t come around often. In fact, it is not described as once in a lifetime but more as a once in a hundred years type project. The roads, the rail and the drone planning coupled alongside the Aerotropolis is incredible, and the jobs that are created as a result can only be a good thing for the NSW economy. Listen in as Graham gives us some background to the project and how we can expect it to roll out initially when it opens in 2026 and what the future looks like all the way out into the 2080’s.
On today’s show we celebrate a milestone with one of Australia’s most successful aviation business Jabiru. 2018 marks 30-years since Jabiru was conceived and we are joined by the founder Rodney Stiff. With a background in farm machinery Rodney took his passion for engineering into aviation. The original design for the planes was built around an Italian engine however shortly after getting the prototypes under way and the production happening the company that manufactured the engines shut up shop. Rodney and his team now had to innovate more than ever before. Not only were they manufacturing planes, they now decided that they were also going to be in the aircraft engine business. Like all companies Jabiru came from the humble beginnings from the family garage to ultimately take on the world of aviation with their range of aircraft and aircraft engines. Listen in as Rodney shares some funny tales of being stuck on a remote Queensland island and what its like to build a plane, get it certified and then to manage and grow a successful Aviation business.
Warbirds Downunder 2018 was held at Temora on the 12th and 13th of October 2018. To all the people and volunteers behind the scenes we thank you for putting on such a wonderful show and I know the aviation community and the public are looking forward to the next one in 2020. Here at Australian Aviation we were lucky enough to spend the day there on Friday the 12th and we took some time to meet and speak with some of the display pilots and the people that make this great airshow possible. Warbirds Downunder isn’t like any other regular airshow, the beautifully restored aircraft evoke a deep passion for aviation that bring us all together. For many of us our interest and love of aviation started with a picture of a spitfire or a mustang and as I’m sure you’ll agree, there are not to many things better than hearing and seeing one of those aircraft in action. Take a listen as even the most senior and seasoned display pilots are excited and moved by the wonderfully restored machines at Warbirds Downunder.
On today’s show we are joined by one of the Royal Australian Air Force’s most experienced combat pilots, SQNLDR Phil Eldridge. Phil is the Executive Officer of number 2OCU, he’s a qualified Fighter Combat Instructor and has almost 30-years of air force experience. With 2 operational tours in the middle east and an absolute love of flying he is one of the RAAF’s demonstration pilots for the classic version of the F18. The next chance that you’ll get to see Phil and the F18 demonstration will be at the Temora airshow warbirds downunder on Friday the 12th and Saturday the 13th of October 2018. Listen in as Phil shares his passion for aviation and what its like to take the F18 out as a demonstration pilot. If you get the opportunity to come out to Temora make sure you pop over and say hi to him and don’t forget to have a chat with all of the support crew as well, without them none of the cool demos we get to watch can happen. If you have a question about the Temora Airshow you can visit warbirdsdownunderairshow.com.au for more information Now if you haven’t already got the latest edition of Australian Aviation you can pick one up at your newsagent today. And you might have noticed that we have changed the way that our subscriptions work on our website. You can now choose the type of membership you are seeking and you can have it delivered as an electronic copy only or as both an electronic and hard copy of the magazine. We also have some fantastic deals and are now combining them with Aviator magazine as well. Just visit australianaviation.com.au/members to find out more about the significant savings you can make when you become a member.
On this podcast we are joined by Roulette #4 and Roulette #7 from the Royal Australian Air Force aerobatic display team The Roulettes. The next event for the Roulettes is the Temora Airshow, Warbirds Downunder which is coming up on Friday the 12th and Saturday the 13th of October 2018. It will be the last time that the public will be able to see the Roulettes in the PC9 at Temora so we encourage you to come on out to the airshow and watch their amazing display at the opening of both days. As many of the listeners would know the PC9 is coming to the end of its service life with the Roulettes and we discuss the transition to the PC21, the differences between the types and the new faster and louder displays that will be seen. Both Scott and Daniel also give us a great insight to what it’s like to be a pilot in the RAAF, the different and interesting aircraft types they have flown as well as the fantastic job opportunities within the Royal Australian Air Force. If you get the opportunity to come out the the Temora Airshow, or you're at any other airshow they are at, make sure you pop over and say hi to both Scott and Dan. https://www.airforce.gov.au/displays/air-force-roulettes https://warbirdsdownunderairshow.com.au/
On this show we sat down with Lea Vesic from Women In Aviation International. Lea’s a passionate and pragmatic aviation professional. She is a fully qualified instrument rated commercial pilot and holds a diploma of aviation management. Now, as you would know, there are many career paths that a person can talk, and many are dominated by men and aviation is certainly one of these industries. Lea’s is a strong advocate for gender parity in the workplace and her work with the Australian Chapter of Women in Aviation International is going a very long way to making this happen sooner rather than later. WAI is a national volunteer run not for profit that has been established to provide networking, mentoring and scholarship opportunities for young girls and women who are striving for challenging and fulfilling careers in the aviation and aerospace industries. It’s my pleasure to be speaking with Lea who is working hard to spread the word that women can do it just as well in aviation as men can. https://waiaustralia.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/leavesic/
We sat down with Peter Harper who is the General Manager for the Temora Aviation Museum. Peter is one of the key people responsible for organising the Warbirds Downunder Airshow for 2018. Now if you’re not familiar with the airshow, it’s the largest gathering of warbirds in Australia and is also heavily supported by the RAAF as well. There will be a huge variety of aircraft both flying and on static display. They include everything from spitfires, to mustangs, a hurricane, F-18's, Hawks, a C17 and much more. Of course a show like this couldn’t be put on without the support of all of the passionate volunteers, so if you are one of those people, we thank you for all you do to make this happen. The airshow runs on the 12th and 13th of October and the gates open at midday on the Friday. There is is a jam packed flying schedule for all to enjoy on the Saturday and plenty of activities in the wonderful town of Temora throughout the whole weekend. Listen in as Peter previews the show and what you can expect when you visit Warbirds Downunder 2018. https://warbirdsdownunderairshow.com.au/
We caught up with Matt Hall and discussed all things Red Bull Air Race after coming off the back of a 3rd place in Wiener Neustadt in Austria. Matt is positioned in 2nd place in the championship only 6 points behind Martin Sonka. There has been 3 races since we last spoke with Matt on the Australian Aviation podcast and we talked about the results in Budapest, Russia and of course the most recent race in Austria. Matt also spoke about AirVenture flying the Mustang and spitfire as well as the upcoming Airshow at Temora, Warbirds Downunder. If you’re a fan of the Red Bull Air Race you’ll know that it is building to a thrilling climax with just 2 races left to go in the United States. Listen in as Matt shares his approach to winning the 2018 Red Bull Air Race Champion.
We sat down with Dr Jeremy Robertson to discuss his career as an international airline pilot and as a medical doctor. Prior to training as a doctor, Jeremy enjoyed a 12-year career in aviation but the rug was pulled from under him just as his career was hitting a higher gear. Jeremy’s career path into aviation was fairly typical: He learnt to fly, then completing his CPL, Instructors rating his MECIFR rating as well as his ATP subjects all at the UNSW. His first first job upon completion of all that training was as an instructor at the UNSW and after about a year working there he was off to work in the Kimberly in north western Australia as a charter pilot. A year of charter flying in some of the most remote locations on the planet were invaluable and after logging the hours that he needed, Jeremy applied to the Qantas, made the cut and his airline career began. Travelling the world as an international airline pilot was the career that he always dreamed of and over time Jeremy became a highly experienced airline pilot qualified on both the 747 and the 767. It’s probably safe to say that most people that are pilots have a deep passion for aviation in one way or another. It’s a little bit more than a just job and even though that may fade with time, it never truly goes away. It’s the same for Jeremy, he’s deeply passionate about aviation, but one day that all came undone and his career as a pilot was completely over when his class 1 medical was cancelled. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and how we deal with these and how we choose to react is a measure of our true character. Ask yourself: What would you do if your medical was cancelled? I know for me it would be devastating if I couldn’t fly again. As you listen into this podcast, I’m sure you’ll agree that Jeremy’s story is one of grit and determination to get back in the saddle and to make a difference to aviation and give back to the community at the same time. I’m excited he’s here to share his story so please help me in welcoming Dr Jeremy Robertson. https://aeromed.net.au/
Its Air Venture 2018 time and it's the great Aussie Fly In. We visited the show on Friday the 21st Sept and met a few of the people behind this wonderful annual event. https://airventureaustralia.com.au
Today represents a significant milestone in aviation in Australia and particularly for Qantas. It was 10-years ago that Qantas took off on its maiden flight from Toulouse in France to Australia in it’s very first Airbus A380. After an 8-year wait, the aircraft represented a monumental milestone in the history of Qantas and also for Aviation in Australia. Airbus first conceived the aircraft back in 1991 and Qantas placed its order in 2001. And on the 19th of September 2008 the first A380 was handed over to Qantas and it began its journey back to Australia the following day to arrive on the 21st of September 2008. Today I’m joined on the podcast by Gerard Frawley and Jordan Chong both from Australian Aviation. Listen in as Gerard and Jordan reflect on that first flight, how the aircraft forever changed the aviation landscape and how it set a new benchmark for passenger comfort. The 10-year anniversary of the Qantas A380 is a reminder of just how far we have come in aviation and it also helps us to look forward to an ever more exciting future. http://australianaviation.com.au/2018/09/tbt-worth-the-wait-the-qantas-a380-era-begins/
Liam Morey is just 16-years old and is attempting to break the Guinness World record to be the youngest person to circumnavigate Australia unassisted and on his own in a plane. The trip has taken him to the most eastern, northern, western and southern parts of Australia which is a requirement of the record attempt. With the help of his sponsors and his Bristell aircraft Liam is well on his way to breaking that record. I caught up with Liam while he was in Bathurst preparing for the final stages of his flight. With just a few legs of the trip left he reflected on the trip, the record attempt, its meaning and his key message that aviation is accessible to everyone. As you listen in you will forget that Liam is just 16-years old, I know I did when I was talking to him. He is a skilled and passionate aviator and I’m excited to share his story with you today. http://www.teenaroundoz.com/ https://www.andersonaviation.com.au/ https://www.spidertracks.com/
We were joined on the podcast by Shannon and Stephen from Outback Aviators. Both Stephen and Shannon are passionate pilots and both were looking for a little adventure when Stephen came across the Outback Air Race and decided then and there that he needed to be part of it! The outback air race only comes around every 3 years and is a GPS based navigation time trial that takes participants through some of the most remote parts of Australia. Stephen and Shannon hand only 2-3 months to make a plan, find a plane, gather their sponsors and organise their personal lives. With some good old fashioned hard work, some deep determination and some modern day hustle they managed to put it together but on launch day they had to make a go or no go decision in a 40 knot gusting crosswind. Listen in as they share their story, their background and some of the decisions and human factors that played such a large role in their trip. The air race took them in their Sling 2 from Brisbane to Broome and back. I’m excited they're here so please help me in welcoming Shannon and Stephen.
Tim Frankel has enjoyed an enviable career as a helicopter pilot. He began his career in the British Army and after 10 years transferred to the Australian Army. Over that time Tim has flown many types including the Squirrel, the Lynx, Blackhawk and the AW139. Tim is a highly experienced pilot with operational experience in the Balkans, Timor-Leste, Pakistan and now on a daily basis as an EMS pilot for Toll Air Ambulance working out of the Sydney base. Listen in as Tim shares his story and we discuss 40-years since the Blackhawk was introduced into operational service.
Today we are joined by Chris Smyth from Inflighto. Inflighto is the most sophisticated inflight entertainment and moving-map app available. It was created by pilots for airline passengers. Inflighto is a moving-map with a difference. No other in-flight app has Inflighto's detailed maps, exclusive features and premium content. It's designed for use onboard airlines with internet-connected in-flight Wi-Fi. Listen in as Chris describes how you can heighten and enhance your flight experience as an airline passenger. http://www.inflighto.com/
On today’s show our guest is Vincent Aiello, call sign Jell-O Vincent is a 25-year veteran of the United States Navy and is a qualified Top Gun instructor. His career as a naval aviator took him all over the world and he enjoyed several operational deployments including to the Persian Gulf for Operation Southern Watch in the late 1990’s. Vincent is rated on several types including the A-4 Skyhawk, the Classic Hornet, the Super Hornet the F-16 the Boeing 717 and soon the 757. If you’ve never heard the story of getting carrier qualified and what it’s like to take a lap around the boat then you’re in for a real treat on this podcast. Outside of aviation Vincent resides in San Diego with his wife and 2 sons and keeps busy with his job as an airline pilot and the host of the Fighter Pilot Podcast. Vincent’s passion for naval aviation is infectious and it’s my pleasure to be able to share his stories with you. I’m excited he’s here so please help me in welcoming Vincent Aiello. https://www.fighterpilotpodcast.com/
On today’s show I’m joined by Greg Maiden and Aaron Jones from Boeing Defence Australia. Greg recently achieved an incredible milestone in his aviation career as the first aircrew member to achieve 4000 hours on the CH-47 Chinook. Greg always had an interest in aviation and his career in the Army began in 1990 as an avionics technician. He first encountered the CH-47 Chinook in 1994 when he was amongst the first members of the Australian Defence Force to be trained on the aircraft in the United States. Fast forward to 1999 and Greg’s career in aircrew began. Greg was lucky enough in his career to undertake multiple international and Australian deployments which included several tours in Afghanistan. Greg is now an integral part of the School of Army Aviation with Boeing Defence Australia’s Army Aviation Training and Training Support program He looks likely to retain his record stating that he plans to remain flying until he is forced to retire. As you would know, the ADF could not, and does not operate in isolation. It’s supported by thousands of passionate people in the defence industry. Today I’m also joined by Aaron Jones. Aaron is a Senior Manager of the Sustainment Support Group for the CH-47. He’s responsible for the support of Chinook maintenance and training in Australia and he looks after the close working relationship that Boeing has with the Australian Defence Force. Hosted & Produced by Robert Brus (C) 2018 Aviator Media Pty Ltd https://www.australianaviation.com.au
For so many people who learned how to fly, life gets in the way and puts the career or hobby on hold for an extended time. When time comes to get back in the cockpit, the challenge becomes one of polishing up those old, rusty skills again, and gaining confidence and proficiency. So what considerations should a rusty pilot make when looking to re-gain currency? Steve is joined by Chritian Bocousis, Owen Zupp and Paul "Simmo" Simmons in a roundtable discussion that covers many aspects of this often challenging issue. -- Steve Visscher - Producer (C) 2018 Aviator Media Pty Ltd australianaviation.com.au
Australia's Red Bull Air Racer, and former RAAF Hornet pilot Matt Hall joins us to talk about his recent success at the Red Bull Air Race. Matt took first place in round 2 in Cannes, France, and again in round 3 in Chiba, Japan. Matt currently sits at the top of the Red Bull Air Race table, sharing equal first place with American Michael Goulian. Image credit - Balazs Gardi/Red Bull Content Pool
In our third podcast episode we talk to Cathay Pacific head of flight technical services David Lohse about the flight test acceptance process when an airline takes delivery of a new aircraft, and chat to ex Royal Australian Air Force fighter pilot, Red Bull Air Racer and new Australian Aviation contributor Matt Hall.
Is there a pilot shortage in Australia? In our second podcast episode we talk to aviation recruitment specialist Kirsty Ferguson of Pinstripe Solutions and AOPA Australia executive director Ben Morgan about pilot training and recruitment, while long-time Australian Aviation contributor and airline pilot Owen Zupp discusses his experiences flying the RAAF’s new Pilatus PC-21.
In the first edition of Australian Aviation Radio, we talk to the magazine's new owner Christian "Boo" Boucousis & editor Gerard Frawley about the brand's transition into digital. Boo also talks about his former career as a fast jet pilot with the Royal Australian Air Force.
We also speak with managing editor of our sister publication, Australian Defence Business Review, Andrew McLaughlin, about current issues in local military aviation, including the F-35 program.