aviation

JAL and GMO AI & Robotics deploy Unitree G1 humanoids at Haneda for baggage loading and cabin cleaning, running through 2028.

Lufthansa will exercise its option in June to buy an additional 49% of ITA Airways from the Italian state for 325 million euros, lifting its stake to 90% and triggering full integration of the Italian flag carrier.

Spirit Airlines ended 34 years of flying at 3 AM ET on May 2, 2026, after a $500 million federal rescue collapsed and jet fuel reached roughly $4.51 a gallon — double its restructuring assumption.

AECC's AEP100 liquid hydrogen turboprop completed a 16-minute maiden flight in Zhuzhou, producing zero carbon emissions and establishing China's lead in hydrogen aviation propulsion.

Bristol-based Vertical Aerospace flew its VX4 prototype from vertical takeoff into wingborne cruise on April 2, marking the third such piloted demonstration in the West and clearing the way for two-way transition trials later this year.

GE Aerospace announced plans to invest $1 billion across more than 30 communities in 17 states during 2026, bringing cumulative domestic manufacturing investment since 2024 to $2.5 billion as the company races to meet record commercial and defense engine demand.

The FAA has published bespoke airworthiness rules for ZeroAvia's ZA601 electric motor, marking the first time the agency has established a regulatory framework for hydrogen-electric aircraft propulsion.

Test pilot Paul Stone flew Vertical Aerospace's VX4 prototype through a vertical takeoff-to-wingborne flight transition at Cotswold Airport on April 2, marking a first for a piloted, full-scale eVTOL under UK Civil Aviation Authority oversight.

The FCC seeks public comment on dedicated drone spectrum bands, streamlined experimental licensing, and new innovation zones as part of the Trump administration's push to replace banned foreign drones with domestic alternatives.

The DOT and FAA chose eight state-led eVTOL pilot programs covering 26 states, enabling companies like Joby, Archer, and BETA Technologies to begin passenger and cargo air taxi operations as early as summer 2026.

Aviation automation startup Skyryse raises $300M Series C at $1.15B valuation to certify SkyOS, a fly-by-wire system replacing complex mechanical controls with a single joystick and touchscreens.