If you move the target closer to make the attempt easier, you're likely to hit your mark. Boeing, Airbus and Embraer all managed the feat by revising their 2009 delivery expectations lower than those of previous years.Boeing reported 481 commercial deliveries last year, although it garnered orders for just 405 in 2009 thanks to the still flagging economy. The company was buoyed by a backlog that still registers nearly 3,400 planes on order.

Investors may not be happy that a proposed bankruptcy filing for Japan Airlines could come as early as Jan. 19, but cash infusions from American Airlines and other partners may be forthcoming in a bid to keep the struggling carrier afloat.Members of the Oneworld Alliance have pledged up to $1.4 billion in investments into the company, arguing that ramping up agreements already in place among the member carriers could net JAL up to $2 billion over the next several years, according to a Bloomberg wire report. The news comes as Delta prepares a rival bid to cement several transpacific routes.

Increased media attention concerning the safety of airline passenger has focused on screening who is allowed on board. Less frequently mentioned is the need to continue to improve commercial jet safety to keep flight crews and passengers safe.Story after story has followed the trial of Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, the muslim Nigerian accused of trying to set off a bomb during a flight from Amsterdam to Detroit. Other flight issues, including the emergency landing at EWR and a touch-and-go at DIA, have also been widely reported.

Lincolnshire Management announced that it has purchased Delta Connection Academy, headquartered in Sanford, Fla. and Aerosim Technologies of Burnsville, Minn.

Dave Rapley, the CEO of the new combined company, said that the new equity infusion will allow airlines to focus on utilizing pilots who are highly skilled while "[finding] ways to save money on pilot training."Delta Airlines will become an investor of the new group, which is expected to report combined sales of $40 million in 2010. 

International Pilots Find That American Thaw Has Not Reached Europe

One of the worst winters in years has left the United Kingdom a snarl of snow, ice and delays as airlines attempt to continue operations, and it appears that conditions in Western Europe are not much better.Air France announced that it would maintain all long-haul flights, but wintry conditions will likely affect travel out of Marseille and Orly, according to the Associated Press. 40 percent of flights at CDG were cancelled earlier this morning and a further 15 percent will continue to be cut because of the conditions.

Increased Vigilance By Airport Staff May Reduce Record Bird Strike Count

More than 10,000 aircraft were reportedly struck by birds, the first time that statistics have crossed that plateau. Some airports have begun controlling nearby populations of risky birds.Cormorants, pelicans and gulls had to be eliminated near Oakland International in December, noted a San Mateo County Times report. 

Events Offer Peek at Aviation History and Opportunity to Re-create Vintage Planes

Pilots and other aviation enthusiasts who can drive to Stuart, Fla., from January 18 to 21 may want to make the trip to catch the Wings of Freedom Tour when it stops at Witham Field.

New Security Procedures May Not Be Enough Without Detailed Procedures

If you are a pilot or first officer for a carrier, you've likely been briefed and updated on the security guidelines in place for flight crews on domestic and international flights. And, if you're like First Officer Steven Danyluk of American, the re-training doesn't solve a key issue with how the events unfolded on board Flight 253 on Christmas Day.

United Airlines Pilot Union Looks for Job Security in Talks

Wendy Morse says she won't use the tactics of the previous head of United Airlines' pilot union, but faces her first test in maintaining jobs and increasing salaries when she meets with UAL chief executive Glenn Tilton today.

Obama's Knock on Executive Jets Still Felt by Charter Companies

President Obama derided executives from the Big Three automakers when they arrived in Washington in November 2008 using corporate jets. Small airport owners and charter operators say they're still dealing with the aftermath.