Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz faces declining popularity and internal conflicts within his coalition government, comprising the SPD, Greens, and FDP. A recent poll indicates the SPD would garner only 16% of the vote if elections were held now, trailing behind the far-right AfD. The coalition's public disagreements and inability to pass key legislation have fueled public discontent. Despite this, a review by the Bertelsmann Foundation found that nearly two-thirds of the coalition's promises have been implemented or are underway. The AfD has capitalized on the coalition's unpopularity, now polling at around 22% and leading in several eastern states. However, it remains isolated as other major parties refuse to collaborate with it.

Spain is set to receive 20 Eurofighter Typhoons between 2025 and 2030, replacing its aging F-18s under a €2bn contract. This move aligns with broader European efforts to modernize armed forces following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Typhoon's resurgence is attributed to its cost-effectiveness, political support within Europe, and versatility. Despite the F-35's advanced stealth capabilities, many European nations are opting for a mix of fourth and fifth-generation fighters. The Typhoon's multifunctionality and economic benefits make it a preferred choice, although stealth remains crucial for initial conflict phases. The RAF plans to upgrade its Typhoons to extend their service life until at least 2060.

Frontier Airlines is withdrawing from Delaware, making it the only state in the U.S. without scheduled commercial flights. The airline's return to Delaware faced delays due to COVID-19 and only offered limited flights to Orlando. The Delaware River and Bay Authority had invested $2 million in terminal improvements, hoping to attract and retain airline services. The final flight is scheduled for June 6th. Frontier's withdrawal coincides with its planned merger with Spirit Airlines, which aims to create the fifth-largest airline in the U.S. with a 7% market share, potentially reducing consumer choice.

Air Lease Corporation (ALC) has ordered 32 Boeing 737 MAX jets, increasing its total 737 backlog to 130. This order, split between the 737-8 and 737-9 models, follows a February memorandum of understanding. ALC's CEO, John L. Plueger, emphasized the economic and operational benefits of the 737 MAX. Boeing's Ihssane Mounir noted the order's alignment with recovering air travel demand. The 737-8 MAX, previously grounded due to safety issues, has seen renewed confidence. ALC, based in Los Angeles, focuses on leasing fuel-efficient aircraft and saw a revenue increase in 2021. The 737 MAX's fuel efficiency and versatility make it popular among airlines and leasing companies.

Seattle port authorities have recognized EVA Airways, Frontier, and Spirit Airlines in the Fly Quiet Awards for their efforts in reducing aircraft noise at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. EVA Airways was particularly noted for introducing quieter Boeing 787 aircraft ahead of schedule to address community concerns. Spirit and Frontier Airlines were commended for their use of the low-noise Airbus A320neo. The awards are part of the Sustainable Century Awards, which evaluate airlines based on operational sound levels, adherence to noise abatement procedures, and other criteria. The initiative aims to mitigate noise pollution, which has been linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease.

Umeå, Sweden, is pioneering urban design that prioritizes gender equality, with initiatives like the Årstidernas park designed specifically for teenage girls. Gender equality officers Annika Dalén and Linda Gustafsson are central to urban planning, ensuring that infrastructure meets the needs of women. The city's long-standing commitment to gender equality has made it a model for other European cities. Umeå's approach includes safer public spaces and visible female representation in city names and art. The city also links gender equality with climate action, arguing that gender-equal cities can significantly reduce emissions. Umeå aims to be climate neutral by 2030, integrating gender considerations into its environmental strategies.

The Palace of Westminster is facing severe structural issues, including leaks, falling stonework, and fire hazards, with no major renovations since World War II. A 2016 report highlighted the building's deteriorating condition, including asbestos and vermin problems. Various reports have recommended a full decant of MPs to facilitate comprehensive restoration, but there is debate over whether MPs should remain in the building during the work. The House of Commons Commission has questioned the full decant approach, leading to the potential dissolution of the independent sponsor body overseeing the renovation. The decision now rests with MPs and peers in the House of Lords, balancing the need for preservation with financial prudence.

Oman Air has retired its four Embraer E175 aircraft, which were first removed from service at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline is likely to replace these regional jets with larger Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, following a sale and leaseback agreement with CDB Aviation. The E175s, originally purchased in 2009, were primarily used on domestic routes. Embraer has sold over 800 E175s globally, with North American customers accounting for the majority. The latest in the E-Jet family, the E195-E2, boasts higher capacity and range, with new orders expected to be delivered next year. Embraer is also partnering with Pratt & Whitney to demonstrate the use of 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel in its E2 aircraft.

A lockdown-inspired interest in learning new languages through apps like Duolingo continues to thrive, with a 31% rise in daily users reported between January and March. Duolingo, the world's most downloaded language app, has seen significant engagement, with nearly 50 million monthly users. A 2020 British Council survey revealed that 10% of UK adults attempted to learn a language during the first Covid lockdown, predominantly using apps. Duolingo's popularity in the UK includes Spanish, French, and German courses, with Welsh also gaining traction. Users like Essex University student Elliot Deady find the app beneficial for initial language learning, though some educators caution about overestimating language acquisition through apps alone.

Qatar Airways has introduced a voluntary carbon offset program for corporate customers, enabling them to offset emissions from business travel. The program, developed in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), aims to support sustainability and carbon neutrality goals. Initially, funds will support a renewable energy project, with plans to include more verified projects. The initiative follows similar schemes for passengers and cargo. However, carbon offset programs face criticism from groups like Greenpeace, which argue they may not deliver promised environmental benefits.