Aviation Week's Check 6 Podcast

The F-47, low-cost missiles, space superiority and more—listen in as Aviation Week's Robert Wall, Steve Trimble, Tony Osborne and Brian Everstine break down the key developments of 2025 in the defense world.

Jens Flottau, an executive editor with expertise in airframe issues, Sean Broderick, a safety editor focused on operational implications, and Michael Bruno, a chief business editor with a financial lens, dive into the challenges facing Airbus and the resurgence of Boeing. They discuss Airbus's cut in its 2025 delivery target due to supplier issues, operational safety concerns stemming from an EASA software rollback, and Boeing's improving financial outlook with reduced cash burn forecasts. The panel examines who should be held accountable for Airbus's struggles and the constraints on increasing production rates.

The podcast dives into the buzz from the Dubai Airshow, focusing on Trump’s approval of F-35 sales to Saudi Arabia and its ripple effects in the region. The UAE's shifting stance on the F-35 is explored, alongside discussions on competing fighter jet offers. Political dynamics and the significance of MBZ’s visit to the Russian pavilion add intrigue. Ukraine's modernization efforts with France and Sweden are highlighted, along with Colombia's Gripen deal. The session wraps up with Boeing's trainer partnership and the Red Arrows looming transition.

Boeing and Airbus are both now looking at the feasibility of upsizing their largest twin-aisles at the behest of Emirates, which led the way for orders at Dubai Airshow. Listen in as Christine Boynton, Jens Flottau, Guy Norris and Graham Dunn discuss that and other commercial highlights in this special episode recorded at the event. Thank you to our sponsor GE Aerospace. Learn more about how GE Aerospace and its partners are defining flight for today, tomorrow, and the future here

Richard Aboulafia, a veteran aviation analyst, joins Aviation Week editors Jens Flotow and Guy Norris for a riveting discussion on the future of widebody aircraft. They delve into the reasons behind the slow roll-out of new models by Airbus and Boeing, while examining the emerging Comac C929. The conversation highlights the intricate relationships between engine manufacturing and aircraft development, as well as the impact of market demand and sustainability on future designs, including the critical role of Emirates and geopolitical influences.

From executive orders to oversight reforms, government contracting is shifting fast. In this sponsored podcast PwC experts join Aviation Week to break down the biggest regulatory changes, funding priorities and cost-control pressures shaping the aerospace and defense industry. Learn more: America In Motion—How businesses can own their next move

Aviation Week's Robert Wall, Brian Everstine, Vivienne Machi and Steve Trimble discuss the impact of policy changes at the Pentagon before they break down the latest developments with the B-21 and multiple CCA projects.

Aviation Week's Joe Anselmo, Michael Bruno and Jens Flottau are joined by contributing columnist Kevin Michaels to record a podcast discussing whether the aerospace industry is making the most of the commercial upcycle.

Join Steve Trimble, an Aviation Week defense editor with expertise in Korean fighter programs, and Tony Osborne, the European defense editor focused on fighter and uncrewed aircraft. They delve into the KF-21's production status and KAI's leadership challenges, plus potential export markets like the UAE and Poland. Tony discusses Ukraine's significant Gripen interest amidst operational hurdles, while also reviewing Germany's Eurofighter updates. The conversation highlights Shield AI's innovative X-BAT project and the UK's search for Hawk T2 replacements with promising contenders.

This week Check 6 is hosting an episode from Aviation Week's MRO Podcast—European fleet growth, supply chain bottlenecks, AI, Gen Z, supplier contracts and geopolitics were all up for discussion as Aviation Week's team convened to record a special episode of the MRO Podcast live at MRO Europe in London. Find out more about Aviation Week Intelligence Network's 2026 Fleet & MRO Forecast here