# The Aviation Diary

> Aviation. Defense. Space.


## Posts

- [Airbus A350F Nears First Flight After Simulator and Ground Tests](https://theaviationdiary.com/airbus-a350f-first-flight-test-campaign/): Airbus is preparing the first A350F for flight after simulator rehearsals and ground tests, with two aircraft set to divide a planned 400-hour certification campaign.
- [F-35 Parts Diverted to Hong Kong: 2 Parts Reportedly Held](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-35-parts-diverted-to-hong-kong/): A cockpit canopy and weapons-bay door from an Australian F-35A were unexpectedly rerouted to Hong Kong. Bloomberg reports that the Chinese government later took possession of the components, while U.S. and Australian authorities continue investigating how the shipment was diverted.
- [FAA Grants Boeing 777F Emissions Waiver for 35 Freighters](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-777f-emissions-waiver/): The FAA has approved an emissions waiver allowing Boeing to sell 35 additional 777 Freighters after 2028 while the manufacturer works toward the next-generation 777-8F.
- [Michigan ANG F-16 Pilot Recalls 9/11: “Nobody Else Was Flying”](https://theaviationdiary.com/michigan-ang-f-16-pilot-911-story/): Retired Michigan ANG F-16 pilot Tom Froling recalls the routine training flight that became a homeland-defense mission as the Sept. 11 attacks unfolded.
- [Rafale F5: France Accelerates Major Upgrade With Stealth Drone Wingman](https://theaviationdiary.com/rafale-f5-france-drone-wingman/): France has started early development work on the Rafale F5, pairing a major fighter upgrade with new sensors, stronger propulsion and a stealth combat drone.
- [Saab GlobalEye: Promising 2026 LOI Deepens Defense Ties](https://theaviationdiary.com/saab-globaleye-sweden-netherlands-loi/): Sweden and the Netherlands have signed a Letter of Intent for shared Saab GlobalEye operations, with the Netherlands planning to acquire one aircraft for delivery in 2031.
- [Enduring Shield Interceptor: Fierce 2026 Army Rivalry](https://theaviationdiary.com/enduring-shield-interceptor-competition/): The U.S. Army has advanced Lockheed Martin and a Boeing-Anduril team into a head-to-head competition to build a second Enduring Shield interceptor against cruise missiles and drones.
- [Whiteman B-21 Hangar: A Powerful $74.8M Contract Award](https://theaviationdiary.com/whiteman-b-21-hangar-contract/): The Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $74.8 million Whiteman B-21 hangar contract on Sept. 5, 2026, marking the bomber's expansion to its second main operating base.
- [Northrop Grumman CIRCM Contract: A Powerful $4.84B Deal](https://theaviationdiary.com/northrop-grumman-circm-contract/): The U.S. Army awarded Northrop Grumman a $4.84 billion CIRCM contract on Sept. 8, 2026, for full-rate production of its laser-based helicopter missile defense system.
- [Oregon ANG F-15EX Drops Live Bombs: A Powerful First](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-15ex-drops-live-bombs/): Oregon Air National Guard's 142nd Wing became the first operational unit whose F-15EX drops live bombs, achieved during Weapons Instructor Course training at Nellis on Aug. 27, 2026.
- [Argentina Black Hawk Sale: US Approves $140M UH-60L Deal](https://theaviationdiary.com/argentina-black-hawk-sale/): The U.S. approved a $140 million Argentina Black Hawk sale on Sept. 10, 2026, covering four UH-60L helicopters that will give the Argentine Army its first Black Hawks.
- [Last USMC Harrier: Final Flight Ends 55 Years of Service](https://theaviationdiary.com/last-usmc-harrier-naval-aviation-museum/): BuNo 166288, the last AV-8B Harrier II built for the U.S. Marine Corps, has been demilitarized and moved to the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola for permanent static display.
- [Boeing KC-46A Contract Ceiling: Powerful $19.1B FMS Boost](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-kc-46a-contract-ceiling/): The U.S. Air Force raised its Boeing KC-46A tanker contract ceiling by $13.4 billion to $19.1 billion on Sept. 11, opening room for Foreign Military Sales to Japan, Israel, and future allies.
- [Athens Flying Week Crash: Greek F-4 Phantom Kills Two Pilots](https://theaviationdiary.com/athens-flying-week-crash/): A Hellenic Air Force F-4 Phantom II crashed during a display at Athens Flying Week on Sept. 5, 2026, killing both pilots in one of the jet's final public appearances before Greece retires the type.
- [Egypt CH-47F Chinook Delivery: A Powerful Fleet Boost](https://theaviationdiary.com/egypt-ch-47f-chinook-delivery/): Egypt's air force has taken delivery of the first five of 12 Boeing CH-47F Chinook helicopters under a $426 million deal announced at the El Alamein International Airshow, replacing its aging CH-47D fleet.
- [Trump Threatens to Block Bombardier Sales Unless Jets Are Built in U.S.](https://theaviationdiary.com/bombardier-sales-trump-us-threat/): President Donald Trump has threatened to block Bombardier aircraft sales in the United States unless the Canadian manufacturer begins building its jets in America, escalating the U.S.-Canada trade dispute.
- [VMFA-533 F-35B Japan Rotation Begins at Iwakuni](https://theaviationdiary.com/vmfa-533-f-35b-japan-iwakuni/): Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 533 arrived at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, on September 5, 2026, marking the Hawks' first Unit Deployment Program rotation flying the F-35B.
- [F-35 Starshield SATCOM Targets 2031 Satellite Fielding](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-35-starshield-satcom-2031/): The Pentagon plans to equip the F-35 with Starshield-enabled satellite communications by September 2031, letting the jet share targeting data far beyond conventional radio range.
- [Turkey Eurofighter Training Begins Ahead of 2030 Jets](https://theaviationdiary.com/turkey-eurofighter-training-2030/): Turkish Air Force pilots began flying the Eurofighter Typhoon in the UK on September 7, 2026, years ahead of the first new-build aircraft due to arrive in Turkey around 2030.
- [Navy Surrogate CCA: Powerful Push With 2 Aircraft](https://theaviationdiary.com/navy-surrogate-cca-program/): The U.S. Navy is looking to field a surrogate Collaborative Combat Aircraft to build operational experience while its own CCA program develops.
- [Miami 767 Runway Overrun: Powerful Response Shuts Down MIA](https://theaviationdiary.com/miami-767-runway-overrun-mia/): An Amazon Prime Boeing 767 cargo aircraft overran Runway 30 at Miami International Airport on September 6, 2026, prompting a ground stop and a large emergency response
- [Quarterhorse Anduril Autonomy: A Powerful 2027 Milestone](https://theaviationdiary.com/quarterhorse-anduril-autonomy-lattice/): Anduril will integrate its Lattice mission-autonomy software into Hermeus' Quarterhorse Mk 2 high-Mach aircraft, marking its first commercial autonomy deal on any third-party aircraft platform.
- [Viper Shield F-16: L3Harris Completes First 35 Systems](https://theaviationdiary.com/viper-shield-f-16-first-35-systems/): L3Harris has completed the first 35 Viper Shield F-16 electronic warfare systems and assembled its first production pod, moving toward full-rate manufacturing for 233 systems on order.
- [Auto GCAS Super Hornet: Navy Sets 2027 Install Date](https://theaviationdiary.com/auto-gcas-super-hornet-navy-2027/): Naval Air Systems Command has set a schedule to install Auto GCAS on F/A-18E/F Super Hornets starting in 2027, with EA-18G Growler installations following in 2028.
- [Patria F135 Engine: Finland's Historic First F-35 Engine](https://theaviationdiary.com/patria-f135-engine-finland-first-f-35/): Finland’s Patria F135 engine program reached a milestone on September 3, 2026, when Patria completed assembly of the country’s first F135 fighter jet engine at its new Linnavuori facility in Nokia. The completion was marked at a ceremony attended by Patria executives, senior Finnish defense officials and Pratt & Whitney representatives, days ahead of the first F-35As arriving at Finland’s Lapland Air Wing this autumn. The engine is the first tangible result of a February 2026 agreement between Patria and Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, covering final assembly of F135 engines in Finland — the powerplant for the F-35A Lightning […]
- [Rivet Joint UK Operations: Powerful Return After 365 Days](https://theaviationdiary.com/rivet-joint-uk-operations-resume/): A USAF RC-135W Rivet Joint flew from RAF Mildenhall for the first time in a year on September 2, 2026, after Middle East operations against Iran pulled the aircraft away from Europe.
- [Saudi Arabia JDAM-ER: $5B Deal Adds 10,000+ Smart Bombs](https://theaviationdiary.com/saudi-arabia-jdam-er-5-billion-deal/): The U.S. has approved a possible $5 billion sale of JDAM-ER guidance kits to Saudi Arabia, which would give the Royal Saudi A
- [Egypt Rafale RFP: Historic, Powerful Bid for 24 Jets](https://theaviationdiary.com/egypt-rafale-rfp-24-more-jets-dassault/): Egypt has reportedly requested proposals from Dassault Aviation for 24 more Rafale fighters, which would expand its fleet to 78 aircraft if the deal is finalized.
- [EC-130H Final Flight: Compass Call Retires After 44 Years](https://theaviationdiary.com/ec-130h-final-flight-compass-call-retires/): The U.S. Air Force's last EC-130H Compass Call flew its final mission from Davis-Monthan AFB on September 2, 2026, ending a 44-year electronic-warfare career at last.
- [Vermont F-35 Deployment: Powerful End to a Grueling 266 Days](https://theaviationdiary.com/vermont-f-35-deployment-heads-home/): Eight of twelve Vermont Air National Guard F-35As reached England on the way home after a 266-day deployment spanning Caribbean and CENTCOM operations, well beyond a typical rotation.
- [F-15EX Kadena Air Base: First Eagle II Departs for Japan](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-15ex-kadena-air-base-first-eagle-ii-departs/): The first F-15EX designated for Kadena Air Base has departed Boeing's St. Louis plant. The Air Force plans 36 jets at Kadena, replacing the retired F-15C/D fleet.
- [Qantas QF122 Diversion: Engine Fire Over Queenstown](https://theaviationdiary.com/qantas-qf122-diversion-engine-fire-queenstown/): A Qantas 737-800 diverted to Christchurch after flames were seen from its left engine on takeoff from Queenstown. No injuries reported; cause still under investigation.
- [Seaglider First Crewed Flight: Powerful 1,956-Foot Test](https://theaviationdiary.com/seaglider-first-crewed-flight/): REGENT's Viceroy Seaglider completed its first crewed flight over Narragansett Bay, a significant milestone toward eventual commercial and defense service for the all-electric ground-effect craft.
- [Dream Chaser Inaugural Flight: Powerful 2026 Payload Win](https://theaviationdiary.com/dream-chaser-inaugural-flight/): Sierra Space has secured national security and commercial payload customers for Dream Chaser's inaugural flight, a milestone shadowed by the grounding of its Vulcan Centaur launch rocket.
- [E-HEL Laser Contract: Army's Powerful $465M Deal](https://theaviationdiary.com/e-hel-laser-contract/): AeroVironment has won a $464.8 million Army contract for the Enduring-High Energy Laser program, the service's first production deal for a high-energy laser weapon.
- [MH-139 Grey Wolf Goes Operational, Replacing 50-Year Huey](https://theaviationdiary.com/mh-139-grey-wolf-ioc/): The Air Force's MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter has reached Initial Operational Capability, five years late but finally beginning to replace the 50-year-old UH-1N Huey on nuclear missile-field security duty.
- [Coast Guard Emergency Landing: 14 Aboard Land Safely at DCA](https://theaviationdiary.com/coast-guard-emergency-landing/): A Coast Guard C-37A lost an engine mid-flight and made an emergency landing at DCA with DHS Secretary Mullin aboard, reviving scrutiny of the fleet's costly replacement.
- [Iraq Helicopter Sale: US Approves $800M Bell Deal](https://theaviationdiary.com/iraq-helicopter-sale/): The U.S. State Department approved an $800 million Foreign Military Sale of Bell helicopters to Iraq on August 31, timed one month ahead of the coalition mission's formal conclusion.
- [Wild Weasel Distinguished Flying Cross for Six Heroic Pilots](https://theaviationdiary.com/ge-aerospace-derecho-hypersonic/): GE Aerospace's Derecho, a Mach 5 dual-mode ramjet demonstrator, has won a Pentagon contract to move toward its first flight test in 2028.
- [Urgent: F.E. Warren PCB Contamination Halts 6 of 8 Kits](https://theaviationdiary.com/fe-warren-pcb-contamination/): The Air Force pulled AN/PRM-10 test kits from service after PCB residue, a probable carcinogen, was confirmed at F.E. Warren and found on six of eight units command-wide.
- [U.S. Army Moves TITAN Into Production With $192M Palantir-Anduril Award](https://theaviationdiary.com/army-titan-production-palantir-anduril/): The U.S. Army is moving TITAN into production with $192 million in awards to Palantir and Anduril for eight AI-enabled intelligence ground stations due over 18 months.
- [T-1A Jayhawk: Final Flight Ends 34 Years of USAF Service](https://theaviationdiary.com/t-1a-jayhawk-retirement/): The Air Force retired the T-1A Jayhawk on August 28, 2026, ending 34 years of training the pilots who fly its tankers and transports.
- [Silent Anvil Torpedo: Navy's New 268-Pound Sub Hunter](https://theaviationdiary.com/silent-anvil-torpedo/): The US Navy has asked industry to build the Silent Anvil torpedo, a 268-pound glide weapon that would let carrier aircraft and drones attack submarines from standoff range.
- [Space Academy Executive Order: 7 Real Facts Trump Signed](https://theaviationdiary.com/trump-us-space-academy-executive-order/): Trump's Space Academy executive order creates a Presidential Commission with 120 days to recommend how a NASA-led space academy should be structured, funded and located — not an operating school.
- [Hurjet First Flight: Turkish Air Force Production Jet Flies](https://theaviationdiary.com/hurjet-first-flight-turkish-air-force/): Turkish Aerospace has flown the first HÜRJET built in delivery configuration for the Turkish Air Force, marking the program's shift from prototype testing to production aircraft.
- [NASA Roman Space Telescope Launch on Falcon Heavy](https://theaviationdiary.com/nasa-roman-space-telescope-launch/): NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope has launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy, beginning a journey toward L2 and a mission to investigate dark energy, dark matter and thousands of distant worlds.
- [Cartel Drones: 3 Downed by Powerful Laser](https://theaviationdiary.com/laser-cartel-drones-southern-border/): The U.S. military says it used a Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser to shoot down three suspected cartel drones in the Rio Grande Valley this week — a cleaner outcome than February's contested LOCUST/El Paso incident.
- [RED FLAG-Alaska 26-3: F-35s' Historic Alaska Debut](https://theaviationdiary.com/red-flag-alaska-26-3-f-35-misawa/): RED FLAG-Alaska 26-3 wraps August 28 at Eielson AFB and JBER, with Misawa's "Wild Weasel" F-35As flying their first Red Flag alongside Marine F-35Cs, Navy EA-18G Growlers, and the Royal Australian Air Force.
- [Indonesian Su-30 Skids Off Runway at Sultan Hasanuddin, Crew Unharmed](https://theaviationdiary.com/indonesian-su-30-runway-overshoot/): A Sukhoi Su-30MK2 overran Runway 13 at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport near Makassar after a braking system failure during post-overhaul testing. The Indonesian Air Force confirmed the crew was unharmed.
- [HH-60W Jolly Green II Rescues Five Navy Sailors Near China Lake](https://theaviationdiary.com/hh-60w-jolly-green-ii-rescue/): Two HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters from Nellis Air Force Base rescued five Navy sailors after their MH-60S Seahawk made a hard landing near Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California.
- [Third T-7A Red Hawk Delivered to Air Education and Training Command](https://theaviationdiary.com/third-t-7a-red-hawk-delivery/): Boeing has delivered its third T-7A Red Hawk trainer to the Air Force's Air Education and Training Command at Joint Base San Antonio, continuing the rollout of the jet meant to replace the aging T-38 Talon.
- [Black Hawk Crash Gilpin County: Miraculous Escape for 4](https://theaviationdiary.com/black-hawk-crash-gilpin-county/): A U.S. Army MH-60 Black Hawk assigned to the 160th SOAR went down during a training flight on Thorodin Mountain in Gilpin County, Colorado. All four soldiers aboard escaped unharmed; a safety investigation is underway.
- [F-15 Eagle Crest Contract: Boeing Wins $131B Deal](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-15-eagle-crest-contract/): Boeing has won a $131.23 billion IDIQ contract for the F-15 Eagle Crest program, covering production, upgrades, and sustainment for the Air Force and allied nations through 2037.
- [C-17 Moscow Landing: Mystery Deepens Over U.S. Visit](https://theaviationdiary.com/c-17-moscow-landing/): The C-17 Moscow landing has no official explanation. A U.S. Air Force C-17 touched down at Vnukovo Airport after flying from Riga, and the Kremlin denies any knowledge of the flight.
- [Cape Newenham Alaska Crash: Officials Identify 3 Victims](https://theaviationdiary.com/cape-newenham-alaska-crash/): Officials have identified three of the eight people killed when a charter plane crashed in fog near Alaska's remote Cape Newenham radar site on Aug. 20 — Army Corps of Engineers employees Sabrina Hansen and Hayden Scalis, and Air Force 2nd Lt. Leah Borsich. The NTSB investigation remains active.
- [FAA V2500 Airworthiness Directive Orders Urgent Blade Fix](https://theaviationdiary.com/faa-v2500-airworthiness-directive/): The FAA has ordered V2500 operators to replace third-stage compressor blades after failures caused engine fires and in-flight shutdowns, effective Sept. 24.
- [F-35C USS Abraham Lincoln Launch Backs Iran Blockade](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-35c-uss-abraham-lincoln-iran-blockade/): New CENTCOM footage shows a Marine Corps F-35C launching from USS Abraham Lincoln as the carrier enforces the U.S. blockade against Iran in the Arabian Sea.
- [Saab Reveals Collaborative Combat Aircraft: Stealthy A3-001](https://theaviationdiary.com/saab-collaborative-combat-aircraft/): Saab unveiled its Collaborative Combat Aircraft concept, the A3-001, positioning the stealthy, supersonic unmanned fighter as a high-end companion to the Gripen E.
- [Boeing Union Rejects Contract, Approves Historic Strike Vote](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-union-rejects-contract/): Boeing's largest white-collar union rejected a proposed four-year contract and authorized a strike, setting up a potential work stoppage that could delay 737 MAX 10 and 777-9 certification.
- [Navy Rusty Dagger Missile Contract Worth $65 Million Awarded](https://theaviationdiary.com/navy-rusty-dagger-missile-contract/): The Navy has awarded Zone 5 Technologies a $65 million Rusty Dagger missile contract to build a maritime strike variant of the combat-proven AGM-188 cruise missile under its new CHAOS program. Tags: AGM-188 Rusty Dagger, Zone 5 Technologies, U.S. Navy, CHAOS Program, Cruise Missile, Kongsberg Defence, Naval Weapons
- [USS George Washington 200,000th Recovery Marks Historic Milestone](https://theaviationdiary.com/uss-george-washington-200000th-recovery/): USS George Washington logged its 200,000th fixed-wing aircraft recovery after 34 years of service, a milestone landed by an F-35C as the carrier arrives to relieve USS Abraham Lincoln.
- [F-18 Pilot Survives Crash 55 Miles From Seattle](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-18-pilot-survives-crash/): Newly released bodycam footage shows a Marine F/A-18 pilot survives crash near Rimrock Lake, Washington — walking out of the woods, bloodied but calm, already on the phone with 911.
- [Big $4.5 Billion KC-46A Qatar Sale Approved by State Department](https://theaviationdiary.com/kc-46a-qatar-sale/): The State Department has approved a potential $4.5 billion KC-46A Qatar sale, positioning Doha to become the fourth nation to fly the Pegasus tanker as Gulf air bases face growing threats.
- [White House Builds Permanent Helipad as VH-92A Marine One Changes Presidential Flight Operations](https://theaviationdiary.com/white-house-helipad-vh-92a-marine-one/): The White House helipad on the South Lawn is nearly complete, a granite landing surface built because the Sikorsky VH-92A Patriot's rotor wash tears up the grass presidents have landed on for 50 years.
- [USS Abraham Lincoln Returning Home: USS George Washington Arrives in Middle East After 260-Day Deployment](https://theaviationdiary.com/uss-abraham-lincoln-returning-home/): USS George Washington has arrived in the Middle East to relieve USS Abraham Lincoln, closing out a 260+ day deployment marked by crew-welfare concerns and now shifting Strait of Hormuz duties to the new carrier.
- [National Aviation Day 2026: Celebrating the Legacy That Changed the World](https://theaviationdiary.com/national-aviation-day-2026/): Every August 19, the United States honors the pioneers who made flight possible. National Aviation Day 2026 falls on the 155th anniversary of Orville Wright's birth — a look back at the 12 seconds that started it all, and where aviation goes next.
- [Boeing EA-18G Growler Marks 20 Years Since First Flight](https://theaviationdiary.com/ea-18g-growler-first-flight-20-years/): Twenty years after the EA-18G Growler first flight from St. Louis in August 2006, Boeing's electronic attack jet is still being rebuilt for a fight over the electromagnetic spectrum.
- [U.S. Army Selects Robinson R66 for Flight School Next Under $10 Billion Training Contract](https://theaviationdiary.com/robinson-r66-flight-school-next/): The U.S. Army has selected the Robinson R66 as the training helicopter for its new Flight School Next program, replacing the UH-72 Lakota at Fort Rucker under a contractor-run model that could be worth up to $10 billion over 26 years.
- [Boeing Completes 1,000th F/A-18 Modification in Jacksonville](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-1000th-fa-18-modification-jacksonville/): Boeing has completed its 1,000th F/A-18 modification at its Jacksonville, Florida facility — a milestone that highlights the growing importance of sustaining and upgrading the Navy's existing Super Hornet fleet.
- [Future USS John F. Kennedy Completes Acceptance Sea Trials, Moving Closer to Navy Delivery](https://theaviationdiary.com/john-f-kennedy-cvn-79-sea-trials/): The future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) has completed acceptance sea trials off Virginia, clearing a major milestone toward its projected March 2027 delivery to the Navy.
- [Trump Secretly Switched From Air Force One to C-32A After Credible Missile Threat in Turkey](https://theaviationdiary.com/air-force-one-c-32a-turkey-switch/): President Trump was secretly moved from the presidential VC-25A to a smaller Air Force One C-32A while departing Turkey after officials identified a credible missile threat — a covert switch he has since confirmed himself.
- [Lufthansa Plans to Reject Some Early-Build Boeing 777-9s Amid Years of Program Delays](https://theaviationdiary.com/lufthansa-boeing-777-9-early-jets-reject/): Lufthansa is preparing to reject some of the earliest Boeing 777-9 jets built for the airline, as years of 777X certification delays leave early-production aircraft outdated before delivery — a move that follows Emirates' decision to refuse roughly 10-11 of its oldest 777-9s.
- [Trump Orders Navy to Return to Steam Catapults, Reversing Course on Ford-Class Carrier Technology](https://theaviationdiary.com/navy-steam-catapults-trump-doris-miller-emals/): President Trump has ordered the Navy to scrap EMALS on the future USS Doris Miller and return to steam catapults — a reversal that could cost hundreds of millions of dollars and split the Ford-class fleet between two launch technologies.
- [Two U.S. Army Soldiers Killed in AH-64 Apache Crash Near Fort Hood, Texas](https://theaviationdiary.com/fort-hood-apache-crash-two-soldiers-killed/): Two U.S. Army soldiers were killed after a Fort Hood AH-64 Apache crashed near Salado, Texas, during a routine training flight on Aug. 12, 2026. The crash sparked a grass fire, and the cause remains under investigation.
- [Hegseth Renames Joint Base Charleston to Honor Late Sen. Lindsey Graham](https://theaviationdiary.com/joint-base-lindsey-graham-renamed/): Joint Base Charleston has been officially renamed Joint Base Lindsey Graham, honoring the late South Carolina senator's 33 years of Air Force, Air National Guard, and Reserve service. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth led the August 10 ceremony at the installation, home to the nation's largest C-17 Globemaster III fleet.
- [Boeing Reshapes Future Aviation Strategy as Archer Acquires Wisk, Insitu and SkyGrid](https://theaviationdiary.com/archer-boeing-deal/): Archer Aviation is acquiring Boeing's Wisk Aero, Insitu, and SkyGrid in an all-stock deal that hands Boeing a nearly 20% stake — here's what the Archer Boeing deal means for both companies and the eVTOL industry.
- [NORAD F-16 Intercept Bedminster: Two Aircraft Violate TFR](https://theaviationdiary.com/norad-f-16-intercept-bedminster/): NORAD F-16 fighter jets intercepted two general aviation aircraft after they violated the Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) over Bedminster, New Jersey, on Aug. 9, 2026. Both aircraft were safely escorted out of the restricted airspace as NORAD reminded pilots to check NOTAMs before every flight.
- [FAA Flight Disruptions Cause Chaos as Cancellations Top 1,000](https://theaviationdiary.com/faa-flight-disruptions-nationwide/): A wave of thunderstorms and FAA equipment outages triggered ground stops at nine major US airports Thursday, pushing nationwide cancellations past 1,000 and prompting rebooking waivers from Delta and United.
- [FAA Orders Urgent Inspections of Boeing 737 MAX Jets Over Fuselage Cracks](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-737-max-crack-inspections/): The FAA has ordered fuselage inspections on 471 US-registered Boeing 737 MAX jets after cracks were found in a structural component on older 737NG aircraft — though none have been found on the MAX itself.
- [Pentagon Revokes Frank Kendall's Security Clearance Over Air Force One Leak Claim](https://theaviationdiary.com/frank-kendall-security-clearance-revoked/): The Department of War revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's security clearance, citing an unauthorized disclosure about Air Force One's capabilities — a claim Kendall denies.
- [Lufthansa Boeing 777-9: Airline May Reject Early Aircraft](https://theaviationdiary.com/lufthansa-boeing-777-9/): Lufthansa is negotiating with Boeing over whether to accept some of the earliest-built 777-9 aircraft, following Emirates' rejection of early jets over their age and retrofit needs.
- [B-2 Spirit Hot-Pit Refueling Showcases Rapid Combat Readiness During Hawaii Bomber Task Force Deployment](https://theaviationdiary.com/b-2-spirit-hot-pit-refueling-hawaii/): B-2 Spirit stealth bombers underwent hot-pit refueling at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam during a Hawaii Bomber Task Force deployment, with an F-22 Raptor also featured in the footage.
- [Explosive Drone Found at Leipzig Airport Sparks DHL Mid-Air Collision and Overnight Chaos](https://theaviationdiary.com/leipzig-airport-drone-dhl-collision/): Police found an explosive-laden drone parked beside a Ukrainian Antonov at Leipzig airport as a DHL cargo plane struck a separate object mid-flight and diverted to Hanover. Roughly 19 flights were diverted overnight amid suspicions of Russian sabotage.
- [FAA Probes Marine One Reagan National Incident After Loss of Separation Near DCA](https://theaviationdiary.com/marine-one-reagan-national-incident/): The FAA is investigating an apparent loss of separation involving Marine One and an Envoy Air regional jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, raising questions about post-2025 safety procedures.
- [U.S. Coast Guard 236th Birthday: Celebrating America's Oldest Continuous Seagoing Military Service](https://theaviationdiary.com/u-s-coast-guard-236th-birthday/): The U.S. Coast Guard marks 236 years of service on August 4, tracing its roots from ten revenue cutters in 1790 to today's search-and-rescue, homeland security, and national defense missions.
- [Boeing Seafair Air Show 2026 Delivers Spectacular Finale in Seattle](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-seafair-air-show-2026-wrap-up/): The Boeing Seafair Air Show 2026 concluded after three days of spectacular aerial demonstrations over Seattle, featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, military aircraft, and Boeing's continued support of one of North America's premier aviation events.
- [F-35C USS Abraham Lincoln Launch Highlights Powerful CENTCOM Operations in the Arabian Sea](https://theaviationdiary.com/f-35c-uss-abraham-lincoln-launch-centcom/): A U.S. Marine Corps F-35C Lightning II launched from USS Abraham Lincoln during CENTCOM operations in the Arabian Sea. The official footage highlights carrier flight operations and the continued role of the F-35C in regional security missions.
- [Boeing 737 MAX 7 FAA Certification Clears Final Regulatory Hurdle](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-737-max-7-faa-certification/): The FAA has officially certified the Boeing 737 MAX 7, clearing the aircraft for customer deliveries after years of testing, engineering improvements and regulatory review.
- [Bell 214ST Helicopter Collision During Greece Wildfire Kills Two Crew Members](https://theaviationdiary.com/bell-214st-helicopter-collision-greece/): Two Bell 214ST firefighting helicopters collided while battling the Psatha wildfire near Athens on August 2, killing two crew members and injuring two others. The cause remains under investigation.
- [Dulles Mobile Lounges Retired After 60 Years: Iconic Airport Transport Ends](https://theaviationdiary.com/dulles-mobile-lounges-retired/): Washington Dulles will gradually retire its iconic mobile lounges as part of a $22.5 billion modernization, expanding the AeroTrain network while preserving Eero Saarinen's landmark terminal.
- [Historic Air Force Decision: 7 Facts About Joint Base Charleston Renamed After Lindsey Graham](https://theaviationdiary.com/joint-base-charleston-lindsey-graham/): Joint Base Charleston renamed after Lindsey Graham marks a major Air Force decision honoring the late senator's military legacy and the installation's strategic role.
- [Project Sunrise A350-1000ULR Successfully Completes 24-Hour Flight to Toulouse](https://theaviationdiary.com/project-sunrise-a350-1000ulr/): Project Sunrise A350-1000ULR reached another major milestone as Qantas’ first Airbus A350-1000ULR arrived in Toulouse, France, after completing a remarkable 24-hour, 24-minute nonstop flight from Melbourne, Australia. The aircraft flew northeast across the Pacific Ocean before crossing the United States and Canada, continuing over the Atlantic Ocean and the United Kingdom before landing at Airbus’ headquarters in Toulouse. Along the way, the flight crossed three continents and two oceans, while passengers and crew experienced two sunrises and two sunsets—highlighting the extraordinary capabilities of Airbus’ A350-1000 Ultra Long Range aircraft. Project Sunrise A350-1000ULR Reaches Another Milestone The successful nonstop journey represents another […]
- [Boeing Q2 2026 Results: 777X Certification Advances as 737 Production Ramps Up](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-q2-2026-results/): Boeing Q2 2026 Results highlight stronger revenue, growing 737 MAX production, continued 777X certification progress, and a record $715 billion backlog.
- [United Airlines 777-9: Airline Reportedly Eyeing Early-Build Boeing Aircraft Rejected by Emirates](https://theaviationdiary.com/united-airlines-777-9/): CHICAGO — United Airlines 777-9 reports are generating widespread attention across the aviation industry after market sources suggested the airline is evaluating approximately 20 early-build Boeing 777-9 aircraft originally intended for other customers but later rejected. If confirmed, the acquisition could become one of the most significant widebody bargains in modern commercial aviation. The aircraft, often referred to by industry observers as Boeing’s “Terrible Teens,” were built years before the Boeing 777X’s planned 2020 entry into service. However, certification delays, increased regulatory oversight following the 737 MAX crisis, and years of engineering changes left the earliest production aircraft requiring extensive and […]
- [Boeing Farnborough Airshow 2026: Boeing Announces 327 Firm Aircraft Orders](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-farnborough-airshow-2026-orders/): Boeing concluded the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow with 327 firm aircraft orders, including major deals for the 737 MAX, 787 Dreamliner, and 777 Freighter, highlighting strong global demand despite ongoing production constraints.
- [Blue Angel No. 3 Flies Inches Above Pensacola Beach During Stunning Low Pass](https://theaviationdiary.com/blue-angel-no-3-pensacola-beach-low-pass/): A breathtaking low pass by Blue Angel No. 3 over Pensacola Beach has captured the attention of aviation enthusiasts, offering a dramatic look at the precision and professionalism of the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron. Recorded during a recent flight demonstration, the maneuver shows Blue Angel No. 3 flying just feet above the beach as the aircraft streaks past spectators at high speed. While the pass may appear incredibly close to the ground, it is a carefully planned and rehearsed maneuver performed by one of the world’s most experienced military demonstration teams. Why Blue Angel No. 3 Flies So Low The […]
- [Blue Angels Perform Spectacular Double Farvel Over Pensacola Beach](https://theaviationdiary.com/blue-angels-double-farvel-pensacola/): The U.S. Navy Blue Angels thrilled spectators over Pensacola Beach with a breathtaking Double Farvel maneuver, showcasing the precision and skill that have made the team one of the world's premier flight demonstration squadrons.
- [Boeing Celebrates 110 Years of Aviation Innovation and Aerospace Leadership](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-110-years-anniversary/): Boeing marks 110 years since its 1916 founding in Seattle, tracing its path from a wooden seaplane to a global leader in commercial aviation, defense, and space.
- [U.S. Sea Drones Strike Iranian Naval Facility in Historic First Combat Use](https://theaviationdiary.com/us-sea-drones-strike-iran/): CENTCOM confirms the first-ever U.S. combat use of sea drones, striking a submarine facility at Iran's Bandar Abbas Naval Base as part of a broader wave of strikes.
- [Boeing Opens New 737 MAX North Line at Everett Factory](https://theaviationdiary.com/boeing-737-max-north-line-everett/): Boeing has opened a new 737 MAX assembly line at its Everett Factory — the first time in over 50 years the jet has been built outside Renton — to support future production growth.

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