Airborne 10.05.26: ABQ Balloons Busted, FlyDubai FO Problems, EAA Scholarships
Also: Elixir Accident, Solairus Takes On Clay Lacy, Crew-13 Reaches ISS, Gulfstream Simulator Albuquerque's skies filled with balloons for the opening morning of the 2026 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, but several flights ended far differently than planned. Seven incidents were reported as balloons encountered power lines, light poles and challenging conditions near the ground. No serious injuries were reported, though multiple balloons were damaged and about 2,000 customers temporarily lost power. The pilot suspected of having attacked another pilot aboard a Tel Aviv-bound FlyDubai flight was removed from a previous job at Oman’s national airline last year following concerns about his extremist views, say two sources. The co-pilot is an Omani citizen named Hamam al-Hammami, according to the two sources and an Israeli official. Saudi state media also identified al-Hammami. He was born in the United Arab Emirates to an Omani father and Syrian mother and has spent several years of his life in the UAE. For aspiring pilots, mechanics, engineers, and aviation professionals, the path forward can hinge on something as practical as tuition. The EAA Aviation Foundation has opened applications for its 2026-27 scholarship cycle. More than $680,000 went to 106 students in 2026, offering a glimpse of how far aviation education funding can reach. Applications are open through December 16th, with recipients set to be announced March 1st, 2027. Students must be at least 16 by the award date to qualify. All this -- and MORE in today's episode of Airborne-Unlimited!!!
Oct 7, 2026 · byAero-News Network
