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With the feed from Qantas, this would have helped Cathay to start some new destinations in Europe, as it too is feeling the heat from the Gulf carriers in terms of Australia to Europe traffic! Unfortunately with Jetstar Hong Kong in the works, don’t think Cathay and Qantas were on terms to do a deal?

Team 21 submits AIR 5428 bid

Peter says: The actual aircraft is only part of the equation, what is required in the tender is the whole training program, including simulators/software etc.

The RAAF has expressed some preference for initial flight screening and the BFTS role to be located at RAAF Base East Sale, to provide a 100% military environment.

The NSW Gov’t has indicated some further investment in Tamworth facilities (about $6.

8m I heard), if the BAE consortium is successful to continue the local employment with the current arrangements.

Of course, initial flight screening and the BFTS training is not just for RAAF pilots, but Army and Navy and some other countries – Brunei, PNG also.

So the final decision will have military, political and budget influences to consider.

Over at Pearce, the current PC-9s to possible PC-21s (if successful) would seem a logical succession for instructors & technical support

Good to see the anti-aviation fraternity lost out on this one.

– maybe a bit like the decision to get Super Hornets to replace the F-111s due to the RAAF’s wealth of experience with classic Hornets.

Qantas announces FF scheme changes

Kev says: As a Gold FF member and Lifetime QF Club member, I was extremely disappointed with the email as it went against the grain of seeing every customer as important.

QF already see that the only important customers are the platinum FF level passengers and they disregard other passengers as being totally unimportant.

For example, when you book an economy flight, depending on your FF level, you get a different choice of seating and yet all are flying on an economy ticket.

How does this make the other economy passengers feel when they see discrimination in action!

Brisbane Airport hails curfew rejection

Allan says: Good to see the anti-aviation fraternity lost out on this one.

When are people going to learn airports need to be 24/7 operations? Aviation should not be hindered by political pointscoring.

Considering the technology of today’s engines the argument for a curfew stands on shaky ground.

Gone are the days of first and second generation engines screaming noise and belching smoke.

Times have changed, maybe it’s time the decision-makers caught up.

Who knows, maybe Sydney might be 24/7 one day.

One can only hope.

AMSA leads MH370 Indian Ocean search

Adrian says: A good time to review the policy of rolling out ADSB without primary radar.

Also look at any holes in Australian maritime surveillance capability.