Jake Hardiman

KLM has announced a widespread restructuring and consolidation program as it looks to improve its earnings in what is an increasingly challenging operational environment. This year, more than most, has seen airlines around the world come to terms with various external pressures, such as the airspace closures and fuel price hikes related to the ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East.

The year is ending strongly for the Boeing 737 MAX 10, with Irish aircraft leasing giant Avolon having just placed an order for 140 examples of the stretched narrowbody twinjet. This comes just weeks after the type finally received its type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration, paving the way for it to enter commercial service in the near future after a long and drawn-out regulatory battle.

At least six flights traveling to destinations in Europe are said to have faced bomb threats on Tuesday, just a day after a Wizz Air flight from London Luton Airport (LTN) to Sofia (SOF) had to divert to Budapest (BUD) on Monday. For the most part, the flights in question were able to continue to their destinations as normal, but one did have to divert, prompting a temporary closure at its new destination.