50 SKY SHADES - World aviation news

Essential news for 30 Jul 2026

Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 achieves first flight, advancing next-generation light jet toward certification

Textron Aviation achieved a key milestone as the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 prototype aircraft completed its first flight, advancing the next-generation light jet toward certification. With this milestone, all three next-generation Citation light jets — the CJ4 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and M2 Gen3 — have entered flight testing, demonstrating continued momentum across the Cessna next-gene...

The Arriel 2K, the engine powering the Leonardo AW09 helicopter, has received its EASA certification

The Arriel 2K engine that powers Leonardo’s AW09 helicopter, has received its type certificate from EASA. This marks an important milestone towards the entry into service of the AW09, Leonardo’s new single-engine helicopter. Arriel 2K underwent its first bench tests in 2022 and made its maiden flight on the AW09 in March 2023. Since then, it has accumulated more than 4100 hours of test...

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Gulfstream reclaims city pair speed record Los Angeles to Farnborough

Gulfstream G700 set a new Los Angeles to Farnborough, England, city pair speed record, completing the 4,740-nautical-mile/8,778-kilometer journey in 8 hours and 27 minutes from takeoff to touchdown. The achievement highlights the exceptional real-world performance of the G700 and reinforces its position as the industry flagship. The record-setting flight departed Los Angeles International Airport...

America's newest capital gateway unveiled: more than $20 billion transformation at Washington Dulles International Airport

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, United Airlines and the U.S. Department of Transportation announced a landmark transformation for Washington Dulles International Airport with a capital investment program of more than $20 billion. The project will transform the airport over the next decade into a modern, world-class gateway reflecting the importance and global reach of the nation...

Singapore selects Thales for next-generation AI-powered air traffic management system serving one of Asia’s busiest airspaces

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore has awarded Thales a landmark contract to develop a new NexGen Air Traffic Management System (ATMS) and air traffic control radars, marking a major step towards a more efficient, safer and more sustainable aviation ecosystem. The NexGen ATMS will replace the current LORADS III system with Thales’ TopSky – ATC Onesolution. The project also...