Commercial Aviation
Airbus Limits A320neo Takeoffs in Severe Icing Conditions from 2025
Airbus restricts A320neo family takeoffs in freezing fog under 150m visibility to prevent PW1100G engine stalls, updating ground procedures.
New Operational Restrictions for Airbus A320neo Family in Severe Icing Conditions
As we navigate the winter season of late 2025, the aviation industry faces a significant operational update regarding one of the world’s most popular narrowbody aircraft families. Airbus SE has issued a directive restricting takeoff operations for specific A320neo family aircraft under severe icing conditions. This move, aimed at prioritizing safety, specifically impacts aircraft equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW1100G (GTF) engines. The decision comes in response to reports of engine performance issues when operating in freezing fog with extremely low visibility.
We observe that these restrictions are not a blanket grounding but rather a targeted safety measure designed to mitigate risks associated with ice accumulation. The directive prohibits takeoff when freezing fog is present and visibility drops below 150 meters (490 feet). While this ensures the integrity of the engines during critical phases of flight, it introduces new logistical challenges for Airlines operating in regions prone to harsh winter weather. The industry is now adjusting to these tighter margins to maintain safety standards without severely disrupting schedules.
The context of this decision is rooted in the technical behavior of the engines during ground operations. When supercooled water droplets freeze on engine components, there is a risk of ice shedding into the engine core during high-thrust maneuvers. By implementing these restrictions, Airbus and Pratt & Whitney are taking a proactive stance to prevent engine stalls or damage, ensuring that flight crews have clear guidelines on when it is safe to proceed and when operations must be paused.
Detailed Operational Limitations and Procedures
The core of the new directive, detailed in the Notice to Pilots (NTP 2025-002) and updates to the Flight Crew Operating Manual (FCOM), establishes strict “no-go” criteria. Operators flying the Airbus A320neo, A321neo, and A321LR with PW1100G-JM engines must halt takeoff attempts if the weather reports indicate freezing fog combined with visibility of less than 150 meters. This specific combination of atmospheric conditions has been identified as the threshold where the risk of ice ingestion outweighs the operational capability of the current engine configuration to shed it safely during takeoff.
Beyond the takeoff prohibition, we see a rigorous update to ground engine run-up procedures. Previously, pilots were required to accelerate engines to a minimum of 60% N1 (fan speed) to shed ice. The updated protocol now mandates a specific 30-second hold at 60% N1. This duration is critical; it ensures that centrifugal forces have sufficient time to dislodge accumulated ice from the fan blades and inlet before the aircraft attempts high-power acceleration. This change reflects a more data-driven approach to ice management, moving from a general target to a precise, time-bound procedure.
Furthermore, the frequency of these ice-shedding run-ups has been intensified. When the Outside Air Temperature (OAT) drops to -9°C (15.8°F) or lower, flight crews must now perform these acceleration intervals every 30 minutes, a drastic reduction from the previous 120-minute window. Additionally, the “taxi-in credit”, which previously allowed pilots to count the time spent taxiing from a previous landing toward their anti-icing timeline, has been revoked. The clock now resets immediately, forcing crews to be more vigilant and proactive with engine management while on the ground.
“The restriction applies specifically when freezing fog is present and visibility is less than 150 meters. This measure addresses Safety concerns related to potential engine stalls caused by ice accumulation and shedding during ground operations.”
Technical Background and Safety Rationale
To understand the necessity of these restrictions, we must look at the mechanics of the issue. In freezing fog, moisture exists in a supercooled state, meaning it remains liquid below the freezing point until it makes contact with a surface. When these droplets hit the engine’s inlet and fan blades, they freeze instantly. If a significant amount of ice accumulates and then breaks off in a single large chunk, particularly as the engine spools up to takeoff thrust, it can be ingested into the engine core. This ingestion disrupts the airflow, potentially leading to a compressor stall (surge) or physical degradation of internal components.
The Pratt & Whitney PW1100G “Geared Turbofan” engine is a sophisticated piece of machinery designed for high efficiency. However, like all high-bypass engines, it is sensitive to inlet airflow disruptions. The revised procedures are designed to ensure that ice is shed in smaller, manageable amounts during the 30-second hold at 60% N1, rather than allowing it to build up to a dangerous mass that could cause damage during the takeoff roll. This is a preventative measure to avoid the scenario where an engine might lose power or sustain damage at the most critical point of the flight profile.
It is also important to place this in the broader context of Pratt & Whitney’s recent operational history. While this icing issue is distinct, it adds to the challenges for operators of the GTF engine, which has already seen fleet groundings due to unrelated manufacturing inspections regarding powdered metal components. The accumulation of these maintenance and operational requirements places a premium on the technical adaptability of airlines using this hardware.
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
The immediate impact of these restrictions is being felt by carriers operating in northern latitudes and regions with severe winter climates. Airlines such as Air Astana, based in Kazakhstan, have already reported flight delays and schedule adjustments. For hubs like Almaty, where freezing fog and low visibility are common winter occurrences, these restrictions translate to tangible operational disruptions. We see airlines having to delay flights until visibility improves beyond the 150-meter threshold, creating a ripple effect on schedules and passenger connections.
From a Manufacturing perspective, both Airbus and Pratt & Whitney have acknowledged the situation. Airbus has confirmed that these restrictions are necessary safety precautions and is maintaining close contact with airline customers to navigate the disruptions. Pratt & Whitney is reportedly working on a technical solution to resolve the limitation permanently. Until a hardware fix or further software update is certified, these procedural mitigations remain the primary defense against icing-related engine events.
Looking ahead, the industry will be watching closely for the development of a permanent fix. While the current procedures ensure safety, the operational burden of 30-minute run-up intervals and takeoff bans in fog is significant. We anticipate that engineering teams will prioritize a solution that restores the full operational envelope of the A320neo family, allowing it to operate more freely in the harsh winter environments it was designed to serve.
FAQ
Question: Which Commercial-Aircraft are affected by these new restrictions?
Answer: The restrictions apply to Airbus A320neo, A321neo, and A321LR aircraft that are equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM (GTF) engines.
Question: What are the specific weather conditions that prohibit takeoff?
Answer: Takeoff is not permitted if there is freezing fog present AND visibility is below 150 meters (490 feet).
Question: How have ground procedures changed for pilots?
Answer: Pilots must now perform a 30-second engine run-up at 60% N1 to shed ice. Additionally, if the temperature is -9°C or lower, this must be done every 30 minutes (previously every 120 minutes), and taxi-in time no longer counts toward this interval.
Photo Credit: Nick Murray – CBC
Commercial Aviation
AerolÃneas Argentinas Leases Six Boeing 737-10s from ACG
AerolÃneas Argentinas signs leases for six Boeing 737-10s with ACG at Farnborough, part of a 20-aircraft fleet renewal plan.
AerolÃneas Argentinas has secured lease agreements with Aviation Capital Group (ACG) for six Boeing 737-10 aircraft, marking a critical step in the carrier’s largest fleet modernization effort in a decade.
Announced on July 23, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow, the transaction is part of a broader 20-aircraft renewal program scheduled for the 2027-2031 timeframe. According to a press release from ACG, deliveries of the Boeing 737-10s from the lessor’s orderbook will commence in 2028, providing the Argentine flag carrier with increased capacity for high-demand domestic and regional routes across South America.
Comprehensive Fleet Modernization Strategy
The ACG agreement fits into a larger procurement strategy formalized at the Farnborough event. According to reporting by Infobae and La Nación, the airline’s 2027-2031 plan encompasses 20 new aircraft, representing a renewal of 25 percent of its total fleet and 60 percent of its long-haul fleet.
The overall 20-aircraft plan includes six Airbus A330neos, eight Boeing 737-10s, and six Boeing 737-8s. During the airshow, AerolÃneas Argentinas formalized lease agreements for 14 of these aircraft with lessors ACG and Avolon.
Fabián Lombardo, President and Chief Executive Officer of AerolÃneas Argentinas, stated that the agreement reflects a commitment to building a more modern, efficient, and sustainable fleet.
We are pleased to strengthen our relationship with ACG through this agreement for six Boeing 737-10 aircraft. These aircraft are a key part of our 2027-2031 fleet plan and will allow us to add capacity on high-demand domestic and regional routes, improve operating efficiency and continue offering a more competitive product to our passengers.
Financial Restructuring and Self-Financing
The airline’s leadership emphasized that the fleet renewal is entirely self-financed, a notable shift following its recent financial restructuring.
La Nación reported that AerolÃneas Argentinas achieved positive operating results of $56.6 million in 2024 and $120.7 million in 2025, as audited by KPMG. These figures have allowed the carrier to pursue this capital-intensive modernization without relying on state subsidies.
Capacity Expansion with the Boeing 737-10
The Boeing 737-10, the largest variant of the MAX family, will be deployed from the carrier’s primary hubs at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) and Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires.
Thomas Baker, Chief Executive Officer and President of ACG, highlighted the operational benefits of the aircraft for the South American market.
We are delighted to expand our partnership with AerolÃneas Argentinas as it continues to strengthen its domestic and regional network. The 737-10 offers airlines vital additional capacity, improved fuel efficiency and enhanced profitability, making it well suited to high-demand routes.
AirPro News analysis
We view AerolÃneas Argentinas’ ability to self-finance a 20-aircraft renewal program as a strong indicator of the carrier’s stabilized financial footing following years of restructuring. By securing leases through established lessors like ACG and Avolon rather than direct manufacturer purchases, the airline mitigates upfront capital expenditure while securing near-term delivery slots starting in 2028. The selection of the Boeing 737-10 specifically addresses capacity constraints at slot-restricted airports like Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, allowing the airline to maximize passenger throughput on its most lucrative regional routes without increasing flight frequencies.
Sources: Aviation Capital Group
Photo Credit: Aviation Capital Group
Commercial Aviation
Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt 2026 Agenda and Speakers
Aviovis Group hosts the Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt on Sept 29-30, 2026, covering SAF, MRO, and fleet financing.
Aviovis Group will host the Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt on September 29 and 30, 2026, gathering industry executives to address decarbonization, supply chain constraints, and technological integration.
The two-day event, held at the Frankfurt Marriott Hotel in Germany, aims to connect stakeholders across the aviation value chain, including airlines, lessors, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). According to the official event announcement, the conference will feature 11 panel discussions focused on the sector’s most pressing operational and strategic challenges.
Conference themes and panel discussions
The agenda includes a focus on sustainability, specifically the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and regulatory mandates for decarbonization. Digitalization is another core theme, with panels exploring the transition from foundational data systems to artificial intelligence applications that yield measurable return on investment in airline operations.
Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) pressures will also be examined. Discussions will cover ongoing supply chain bottlenecks, component availability, and fleet reliability. Additionally, the program addresses workforce management, prioritizing crew welfare, recruitment strategies, and human factors in modern flight operations. Long-term industry forecasts projecting out to 2040 will guide conversations on fleet financing and leasing strategies.
Participating organizations and event features
The conference has drawn commitments from major global carriers and aerospace companies. Participating organizations include Lufthansa Group (LH), ITA Airways (AZ), Qatar Airways (QR), United Airlines (UA), Delta Air Lines (DL), Cyprus Airways (CY), and Saudia (SV). Representatives from Munich Airport (MUC), Lufthansa Technik, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, and Avolon are also scheduled to attend.
Beyond the main stage presentations, the event includes an exhibition floor and a dedicated networking environment facilitated by a business-to-business matchmaking application. The conference will conclude with the Global Aviation Awards, which recognize achievements in artificial intelligence innovation, airport modernization, sustainability, and passenger experience.
AirPro News analysis
The agenda for the Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt accurately reflects the dual pressures currently facing the commercial aviation sector: the immediate need to resolve aftermarket supply chain bottlenecks and the long-term imperative to secure SAF for decarbonization mandates. By bringing together OEMs like Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce with major operators and lessors, the event provides a necessary venue for aligning production realities with fleet planning forecasts through 2040. We view the inclusion of workforce mental health and crew welfare as a timely acknowledgment of the human capital challenges that have constrained operational growth in recent years.
Sources: Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt
Photo Credit: Global Aviation Conference
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
BermudAir Orders 10 Airbus A220-300s at Farnborough 2026
BermudAir orders 10 Airbus A220-300s at Farnborough 2026, with deliveries from Q4 2027 and fleet expansion to 20 aircraft by 2030.
BermudAir has placed a firm order for 10 Airbus A220-300 aircraft, marking the carrier’s transition from regional jets to mainline single-aisle operations.
Announced on July 22, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow, the agreement represents the Bermuda-based airline’s first direct purchase from the European manufacturer. The order was initially logged in March 2026 under an undisclosed customer through BermudAir’s affiliated company, Odyssey.
Fleet transition and capacity growth
BermudAir currently operates a fleet of Embraer 175 and Embraer 190 aircraft. The introduction of the Airbus A220-300 will provide a significant capacity increase for the three-year-old airline. According to Airways Magazine, the A220-300 will be configured with 135 seats in a three-class layout, adding 39 seats compared to the airline’s current 96-seat Embraer 190s.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027, as reported by Aviation Week. Reuters notes that BermudAir plans to operate up to 20 Airbus A220 aircraft by 2030, eventually replacing its Embraer fleet entirely.
BermudAir Founder and Chief Executive Officer Adam Scott detailed the economic rationale for the upgauge in an interview with Airways Magazine, noting that the airline was previously leaving passengers and revenue behind on maturing routes.
“We’ve evolved from the E175 to the E190, from 76 seats to 96 seats. The A220 essentially has the same operating cost as the 190, but you get this extra capacity,” Scott said.
Network expansion across the Americas
The 3,600-nautical-mile range of the A220-300 will enable BermudAir to expand its footprint beyond its current North American gateways. The airline is actively growing its network to include destinations in the Caribbean and Central America, such as Belize, Turks and Caicos, Guatemala City, and Anguilla. Reuters reports the carrier plans to more than double its current 11 routes by the end of 2026.
In a press release issued by Airbus, Scott stated that the aircraft’s range, operating economics, and performance at constrained airports will allow the carrier to connect more communities with direct service. The new fleet will also feature XL overhead bins, which Airways Magazine reports will provide a 20 percent increase in carry-on volume.
Airbus Executive Vice President of Sales for Commercial Aircraft Benoît de Saint-Exupéry added that the agreement introduces the A220 to a distinct operational environment in the Atlantic and Caribbean, validating the aircraft’s role in targeted regional development.
AirPro News analysis
BermudAir’s shift to the Airbus A220-300 highlights a broader industry trend of regional carriers upgauging to small narrowbody aircraft to maximize slot utility and route profitability. By selecting the A220, BermudAir secures a platform that offers mainline passenger experience metrics while maintaining trip costs comparable to large regional jets. We view this order as a critical step in BermudAir’s strategy to establish a dominant hub-and-spoke model in the Atlantic, leveraging Bermuda’s geographic position to capture premium leisure traffic between North America and the Caribbean.
Sources: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus
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