ANALYSIS: Where next for TAP as the race for Portugal’s flag carrier narrows down to Lufthansa and Air France/KLM

The EU seeks fast-track antitrust approval for Project Bromo, a joint venture between Leonardo SpA, Airbus SE, and Thales SA, to reduce reliance on U.S. satellite providers like SpaceX. EU officials expect a filing soon, with potential clearance in a Phase 1 review. The project aims to create a European industrial champion in the space economy, facing both support and opposition.

Avolon ordered 250 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing, including 110 Airbus planes (35 A330-900, 75 A320neo) and 140 Boeing 737 MAX. The deal, pending shareholder approval, brings Avolon's total firm orders to 749, supporting airline growth and fleet renewal.

Airbus has identified a quality defect in the anti-corrosion coating of fuselage stringers on A321-200N aircraft, which does not pose an immediate safety risk. A source claims around 500 aircraft are affected, but Airbus has not confirmed this. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is coordinating with Airbus and assessing further action.

European companies in defence, aerospace, and industrial tech may benefit from closer EU-Canada ties. EU President von der Leyen proposed Canada as the first associate member. Trade between the EU and Canada grew 81% since 2016, reaching €130 billion in 2025. Defence deals, like TKMS AG's submarine contract and Saab's aircraft selection, highlight this shift. Airbus and Siemens also secured contracts. Critical minerals and high-speed rail projects offer further opportunities.

The European Space Agency (ESA) is considering increasing the launch rate of its Ariane 6 and Vega-C rockets to meet rising satellite demand, with a decision needed soon. Amazon has commissioned 18 launches, and Arianespace projects 9-10 Ariane 6 launches annually from 2027. ESA is also exploring human spaceflight and may influence the Airbus-Thales-Leonardo satellite merger to maintain competition.

Eutelsat ordered 229 OneWeb satellites from Airbus for $1.16bn, adding to 440 satellites already produced. The order, part of Eutelsat's LEO strategy, will not alter its capital expenditure plan up to FY 2029. Airbus will manufacture the satellites in Toulouse, with delivery and launch imminent.