Surf Air plans to launch commercial passenger electric aircraft with BETA Technologies, a KC-135 accident kills all 6 aboard, Dassault unveiled the Falcon 10X, another search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, changes at Southwest Airlines, and the USAF says Boeing has to fix KC-46 problems. Also, the United Airlines’ Contract of Carriage and the NTSB preliminary report on the fatal Challenger 600 crash in Maine.
Aviation News
BETA to launch first commercial passenger electric aircraft with Surf Air Mobility
Vermont-based electric aerospace company BETA Technologies announced an Aircraft Purchase Agreement and strategic partnership with Surf Air Mobility Inc. for 25 electric aircraft, starting with the ALIA CTOL aircraft, and options for up to 75 more. Surf Air Mobility plans to launch commercial electric aircraft passenger service in Hawaii. Surf Air also intends to operate a new Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) service center for BETA electric aircraft in Hawaii.
Video: BETA x SURF AIR


https://youtu.be/YbdTNaae0v0?si=vDQ6paOire65BAS3


BETA offers two aircraft: the ALIA VTOL, a vertical takeoff and landing all-electric aircraft, and the ALIA CTOL, a conventional takeoff &amp; landing all-electric aircraft. Both offer 5-passenger capacity and 200 cubic feet of cargo. BETA Technologies has not yet received full FAA type certification for its aircraft as of mid‑March 2026, although components and test approvals are in place.
See also: Mokulele parent company plans to use all-electric aircraft interisland and Beta will fly in Vermont as part of federal push for electric aircraft.
KC-135 Crash in Iraq Kills All Six Aboard
U.S. Central Command reported that a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq, killing all six crew members. The KC-135 was supporting operations against Iran. Another KC-135 was involved in the incident and landed safely, reportedly in Israel. U.S. officials said the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Early indications suggest a possible midair collision.
Dassault Unveils Falcon 10X
Dassault Aviation has rolled out the first of four Falcon 10X prototypes at its Bordeaux-Mérignac facility, formally debuting its new flagship ultra-long-range business jet aimed at the top of the market. The Falcon 10X is a clean-sheet design with a 7,500‑nm range and top speed around Mach 0.925–0.95, intended to connect major long-haul city pairs nonstop while flying close to the speed of sound
Video: Dassault’s New Falcon 10X Business Jet Takes Its Debut Bow in Bordeaux – AIN


https://youtu.be/n5nW8s_YEGg?si=Yjkp0iTHrELVtzKR


Southwest Airlines drops 2 big airports from its route map
Southwest wants to boost its profitability and is making some changes. The airline will end service to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington on June 4, 2026. Service to ORD began in 2021 when Southwest expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic

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