On this episode of AvTalk, we’re joined by United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby to discuss the airline’s push into sustainable aviation fuel and where he sees the industry going. And we finally get more details on the problems that have kept 13 Qatar Airways A350s grounded for months. Omicron variant leads to fresh border restrictions The discovery of Omicron, a new variant of COVID-19, has led to a fresh wave of border restrictions and new rules for travelers. Plane producer ponders peeling paint problems Months after Qatari regulators grounded a portion of the Qatar Airways A350 fleet due to cracking and peeling paint, we finally have some more information on the situation thanks to reporting from Reuters. We discuss what is actually a wider issue affecting multiple airlines and what Airbus is doing about it. Want to fly on the people squisher? Cebu Pacific’s new A330neo seats a lot of people in a one-class configuration. Good luck. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby on Sustainable Aviation Fuel This week, United operated a Sustainable Aviation Fuel flight with passengers for the first time. We talked with United CEO Scott Kirby about the flight and what role he sees for SAFs in the industry moving forward. Hifly brings the A340 to Antarctica Hifly landed an A340 in Antarctica for the first time ever last week. See more on how they did it. Polar Bears! And turning to the north, we have polar bears on the runway in Qikiqtarjuaq. Let us know what you think (and let your friends know too!) Thank you so much for listening! Like the podcast? Have suggestions for future shows? Let us know by leaving a review on iTunes. Reviews on iTunes not only help us make a better show, they help more people find the podcast! Want to send us additional feedback, just email us. And tell that friend who asked you for a podcast recommendation that AvTalk is the one they want to listen to next.