KLM has begun constructing an extension of its pilot training centre at Amsterdam Schiphol airport, to accommodate simulators for an incoming Airbus fleet. The new facility, called "The Link" – in reference to first-generation flight simulators with that name – will have space for five simulators for Airbus A321neo and A350 jets. It will be used to train pilots for KLM and low-cost subsidiary Transavia and is scheduled to become operational by mid-2026, the Dutch airline says. It adds that the group's pilot number will grow to 4,000 over coming years, from 3,000 today. Cirium fleets data shows that Transavia's first A321neo was delivered in 2023 and KLM's last year. The two carriers have since received another six and three A321neos, respectively, from an order of up to 160 single-aisles, to replace their fleets of Boeing 737NGs. In the long-haul arena, KLM plans to introduce A350s to replace A330s and 777s. Air France-KLM in 2023 ordered 50 A350s, spanning both the -900 and -1000 variants, and took options on another 40. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026.

The US Department of Transportation has eliminated three steps from the Federal Aviation Administration's eight-step hiring process for air traffic controllers, a streamlining intended to accelerate the rate of new hires. Additionally, the DOT is boosting starting salaries by 30% for candidates who attend the FAA's Academy at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City. "The new supercharged air traffic controller hiring opportunity will bring more of America's best and brightest into the aviation safety community," the DOT says. The department adds that it will "raise the bar on safety by recruiting the best and brightest through a merit-based process". "This staffing shortage has been a known challenge for over a decade, and this administration is committed to solving it," US transportation secretary Sean Duffy states. "The new streamlined hiring process is just the first step to deliver on President Trump's agenda to prioritise the American people's safety and modernise the federal government." United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby responded to the DOT's announcement by thanking Trump and Duffy for "these decisive steps to ensure our air traffic control system's standard of excellence".

South African Airways (SAA) has appointed John Lamola as its permanent group chief executive officer, following his successful tenure as interim CEO since May 2022. The carrier says the appointment is approved by transport minister Barbara Creecy after SAA achieved its first profitable year since 2012. Under Professor Lamola's interim leadership, SAA has expanded its operations, increasing its destination network from six to 16 locations and growing its fleet from six to 20 aircraft, including two Airbus A330s. The airline's workforce has also grown from 800 to approximately 2,000 employees, including 140 pilots. SAA board interim chairperson Derek Hanekom states: "The SAA board is delighted to be able to appoint a solid and dedicated leader well versed in SAA's fortunes and eager to continue overseeing its take-off into better skies." Professor Lamola brings substantial aviation industry experience, having previously served as chief executive at Denel Aviation and as a board member of Airports Company South Africa.