Australian Aviation Podcast Network Momentum Media

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?