HypeMan23

11/14/2025

11/14/2025

FedEx says the MD 11 freighters it parked after last week’s UPS crash should return to service soon because the required safety checks can be done relatively quickly. The company expects only minimal disruption and plans to bring aircraft back one by one as they pass inspection.

Context: the FAA temporarily barred MD 11 flights nationwide after a UPS jet crashed in Louisville, ordering detailed inspections focused on engines and the structures that hold them to the wing. FedEx and UPS grounded their MD 11 fleets in response.

FedEx operates about 28 MD 11s in service, roughly 4% of its fleet, and says it has backup plans to keep packages moving while the checks are completed, using standby aircraft, rerouting, and partners as needed. UPS gave a similar “temporary” characterization for its MD 11 pause.

11/08/2025

11/08/2025

11/08/2025

11/02/2025

11/02/2025

Southwest Airlines pays some of the most competitive pilot salaries in the U.S., with First Officers earning between $127,000 and $241,000 per year, and Captains making up to $343,000 annually.

New First Officers earn about $110 per hour, rising to more than $200 per hour after 12 years. Captains start near $291 per hour, reaching around $317 per hour at the top of the scale. Pay is based on a trip-for-pay system, meaning pilots are compensated per flight segment rather than by the hour.

In 2024, pilots secured a 29% immediate raise under a new five-year contract negotiated by the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association, bringing total increases to roughly 50% over the term.

Southwest’s all-Boeing 737 fleet, strong union representation, and pilot-friendly culture make it a highly sought-after employer. Pilots also enjoy profit sharing, 401(k) matching, and comprehensive health and travel benefits.

11/01/2025

10/29/2025

American Airlines pilots are set to benefit from historic pay rises following the 2023 contract agreement. Entry-level First Officers now earn around $113 per hour, while Boeing 777 and 787 captains can make up to $460 per hour, including bonuses, profit sharing, and enhanced retirement plans. The agreement also adds extended vacation, premium medical coverage, and free family travel across the Oneworld network. With pilot demand continuing to rise, flying for a major U.S. carrier has never been more rewarding.

10/28/2025

Senate Approves Aviation Safety Reforms

The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee has approved the bipartisan ROTOR Act, introducing significant aviation safety reforms following January's midair collision near Washington D.C. that killed 67 people. The legislation mandates all aircraft equipped
with ADS-B Out systems to add ADS-B In technology by December 2031, enabling pilots to receive real-time traffic data. Crucially, the bill closes military exemptions, requiring helicopters like the Army Black Hawk involved in the crash to broadcast their position.
The reforms also direct the FAA to establish new rules for mixed aircraft operations around busy airports, addressing systemic safety gaps highlighted by the tragic incident.