The final Airbus A380, the world's largest commercial aircraft, took off from the Airbus plant in Hamburg-Finkenwerder in December 2021, marking the end of its production. The last A380 was delivered to Emirates, the largest customer of the aircraft. The A380 program significantly impacted the aviation industry, challenging Boeing's monopoly and leading to the development of the GP7000 engine by the Engine Alliance, a joint venture between GE Aviation and Pratt & Whitney. Despite initial challenges, the A380 remains beloved by passengers for its spacious and quiet cabin. Emirates plans to operate its A380 fleet until the mid-2030s. MTU Aero Engines played a crucial role in the GP7000 program, contributing to its development and maintenance.

Flight has significantly influenced everyday language, with idioms and expressions rooted in aviation history. The article explores various phrases like 'helicopter parents,' 'going off like a rocket,' and 'Murphy's Law,' detailing their origins and meanings. It highlights the contributions of individuals like Rolf-Bernhard Essig and Edward Aloysius Murphy, Jr., and discusses the impact of aviation on cultural expressions and safety systems.

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the world's largest air show, transforms the quiet town of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, into a bustling hub for aviation enthusiasts. The event features thousands of aircraft, including historic warbirds and modern jets, and attracts around 650,000 visitors from 92 countries. Highlights include spectacular air shows, innovative product displays from companies like Boeing and Diehl Aviation, and the introduction of hybrid electric aircraft by Ampaire. The event is organized by the Experimental Aircraft Association and is renowned for its seamless logistics and vibrant atmosphere.

On a cold March morning in Riga, airBaltic's flight BT761 to Tenerife marks the world's longest scheduled passenger route flown by the A220. The airline, based in Latvia, operates an all-A220 fleet, with Captain Gerhard Ramcke, an experienced pilot, leading the flight. The journey covers 2,578 nautical miles, including a detour to avoid Russian-controlled airspace due to the Ukraine war. The A220's fuel efficiency and comfortable cockpit are highlighted, with the flight concluding smoothly in Tenerife after six hours and twelve minutes.

On October 28, 1972, the Airbus A300B, Europe's first widebody aircraft, completed its maiden flight in Toulouse, France. Initially overshadowed by the Concorde, the A300B was part of a joint European effort to challenge U.S. aviation dominance. The aircraft, powered by GE Aviation's CF6-50 engines, underwent a successful flight test program and received certification in 1974. Despite early challenges, the A300B eventually sold 561 units and became the foundation for Airbus's market leadership. The A300-600 variant continues to serve as a freighter and as the base model for the BelugaST transporter. MTU, a Munich-based engine manufacturer, has been a key partner in the CF6 engine program, contributing to its success and longevity.

Airlines around the world are celebrating their centennials in the 2020s, with KLM of the Netherlands being the first to reach this milestone under its original name. The article recounts the history of several airlines, including Avianca, Qantas, Czech Airlines, Finnair, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, American Airlines, Iberia, and LOT, highlighting their early days, expansion, and modern developments. It also touches on the Wright Brothers' first flight and the role of Queen Wilhelmina in bestowing the 'royal' title on KLM.

Interflug, the state airline of East Germany, operated intercontinental flights to destinations like Dubai, Havana, and Bangkok, aiming to achieve 'world-class' status and earn Western currency. Despite the restrictive nature of the DDR, Interflug became a pioneer in low-cost flights during the 1980s, attracting West German passengers with cheap tickets. The airline's history, including its predecessor Deutsche Lufthansa and its eventual dissolution in 1991, is detailed in Sebastian Schmitz's book, which offers a comprehensive look at the airline's operations and its place in German history. The book also highlights the privileges of Interflug staff and the involvement of the Stasi in the airline's operations.

Patrick Woodhead, founder of White Desert, has revolutionized transport to Antarctica with the use of an Airbus A340-300, operated by Hifly, for the 2022/23 season. This solution addresses logistical challenges of reaching remote Antarctic stations, previously serviced by outdated Soviet aircraft. White Desert has established a private airstrip in Queen Maud Land, overcoming environmental and technical hurdles. The flights carried over 500 passengers and cargo, with the operations being climate-neutral and powered by solar energy. The company combines transportation for station crews and luxury tourism, with trips starting at $14,000, aiming to turn visitors into ambassadors for the conservation of Antarctica.

Beond is a luxury-focused holiday airline offering exclusive flights from cities like Munich, Zurich, and Riyadh to the Maldives, with plans to expand to Milan, Dubai, and Bangkok. The airline provides a premium experience with all-business class seating, luxurious amenities such as plush bedding, fine dining, and custom-designed tableware. The only aircraft in their fleet, an Airbus A319, features just 44 seats, ensuring a private and comfortable journey.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has introduced new World Business Class seats on its Boeing 777-200 and -300 aircraft, featuring a sliding door and lighter design to support sustainability goals. The review highlights the check-in process, lounge amenities, boarding experience, and detailed features of the new seats, including storage options, charging sockets, and inflight entertainment. Despite a delay, the flight service is described as well-organized, with high-quality catering and thoughtful amenities. The review concludes that KLM's new business class product is highly attractive, though it notes the limited wifi access as a drawback.