On June 16th 2016, the European Commission announced that a number of amendments have been made to the European Union (EU) Air Safety List. Commonly referred to as the "EU Ban List”, it consists of global airline carriers that are prohibited from operating within European Airspace due to the lack of adequate regulatory oversight. As a result of the recent changes, a number of airlines have been removed from the ban list, and can now operate unrestricted flights within European airspace.

Indonesian carriers Citilink, Lion Air and Batik Air had their restrictions lifted. All Indonesian carriers were added to the EU Air Safety List in 2007, after it was determined that the Indonesia Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) could not provide an adequate level of regulatory oversight within Indonesia. Additionally, all airlines certified within Zambia can now commence commercial flights to the EU. Other amendments included the restrictions on Iran Air’s fleet being lifted, with the exception of the airline’s Fokker 100 and Boeing 747 aircraft, which continue to be prohibited from operating within EU airspace.

A total of 214 airlines currently feature on the EU ban list, which is due to the lack of adequate regulatory oversight provided by their respective state civil aviation authorities. Of these airlines, six are permitted to fly within the EU only with specific aircraft types. Additionally, Iraqi Airways (Iraq) and Blue Wing Airlines (Suriname) are banned due to serious safety concerns.

On 7th June 2016, Solomon Airlines reportedly suspended operations after a number of its aircraft failed to be released by maintenance providers in Australia due to outstanding debts. These aircraft were consequently grounded due to the lack of payment. Despite the airline’s financial constraints, domestic operations resumed one day later, with international flights from Hoinara to Brisbane following on the 9th June. As a result of the suspension, a number of airlines also temporarily cancelled flights to Hoinara, over concerns relating to the lack of ground handling services provided by Solomon Airlines.

The last remaining operational aircraft of Bangladeshi carrier, United Airways, has been grounded due to maintenance related issues, consequently forcing the airline to suspend operations. Throughout 2014 and 2015, the airline had experienced a number of temporary suspensions due to a lack of serviceable aircraft. The airline's official website has removed all scheduling information and no official statement regarding the recommencement of operations could be identified. The airline is reportedly looking to divest approximately USD50 million worth of shares in an effort to raise the sufficient capital to resume operations.