Flight Buzz
With Avelo exiting Salem, aviation advocates pivot to recruiting new airline
Salem officials are still determining the future of the city-run airport after Avelo Airlines announced Monday it would shutter its West Coast operations, ending weekly flights from Salem to Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area.
Meanwhile, business leaders who spent years trying to bring commercial flights to Salem, said they’re working on recruiting a new airline to serve Oregon’s capital.
Avelo’s abrupt departure came after less than two years of flights out of Salem, while the airline had subsidies in effect to start up its operations.
Airline leaders said the decision didn’t reflect on Salem’s performance, and city data shows flights were mostly full, particularly on the route to Burbank in the Los Angeles area.
The airline also faced protests in Salem and other cities over its decision to fly deportation flights out of the southwest, though company officials said the protests didn’t impact business or contribute to their decision to leave.
Some 2,100 passengers flew out of Salem in June, city data shows, with a near equal number coming in.
Avelo is closing its Burbank base in December and ending flights to all other West Coast cities. Its last Salem flight will be Aug. 10.
The departure is likely to reignite disagreements in Salem over whether the city should continue efforts to recruit an airline.
City councilors haven’t publicly commented on Avelo’s departure.
They’re due to receive a briefing in a July 28 city council meeting and will discuss the issue Aug. 18.
Councilors were unanimous in a 2023 vote to to use $2.4 million from the city’s general fund to pay for terminal upgrades and beef up airport operations.
Supporters, largely from the business and tourism groups, cited the economic benefits to Salem and convenience for travelers. Detractors raised concerns about the city’s priorities given an impending budget deficit, the viability of air service given the proximity of Eugene and Portland airports, and the environmental and noise impacts of commercial flights.
Brent DeHart is an aviation fueling business owner who leads the Fly Salem Steering Committee. He said now is the ideal time to recruit a new airline. Salem has an upgraded terminal and data showing people will fly to and from the city — factors not in place when Avelo was in talks.
Avelo flights to Burbank in June were 87% full, down slightly from 90% in June 2024, he said. The airline’s Las Vegas flights, which started year-round and then became seasonal, were 77% full in June, up from 72% in 2024.
“Those are very good and sustainable numbers typically,” DeHart said in an email.
That occurred as domestic air travel nationwide declined.
Air service costs and benefits
Getting Avelo to Salem took a patchwork of government and private money. Some of that spending was to improve the airport in ways that can be used by any carrier.
Other money subsidized Avelo’s costs to fly to Salem.
Salem set aside $1.2 million to pay Avelo over its first two years if flights didn’t bring in as much revenue as expected. None of that money came from city coffers — $850,000 was a federal grant, and $350,000 was from private donations raised by Travel Salem.
Through the end of June, Salem spent $854,733 of that total, or 71%, city spokeswoman Erin Neff said. Of that, about $600,000 came from the federal grant, which has to be returned if unused. About $250,000 came from private donations.
Airport operating costs increased with commercial service, and Avelo didn’t stay long enough for the city to begin making money to offset those increases.
The city waived airport fees for the airline during its first two years of operation in Salem, according to the contract – a standard incentive used by airports to lure new airlines.
READ IT: Avelo’s contract with the city of Salem and minimum revenue guarantee
Had Avelo stayed longer, the company would have paid $1 per departing passenger starting in year three, and $1.50 per square foot of rented terminal space at the airport.
Other city money was used for terminal improvements and equipment, most notably the 2023 renovation at a little under $2 million.
A $540,000 state grant in 2022 allowed the city to buy equipment and vehicles needed to serve aircraft.
The city keeps that equipment, so those costs won’t be repeated if another airline comes to town.
“There’s a disconnect in people’s minds that the money was spent for Avelo,” DeHart said.
The money modernized the terminal, he said.
“It’s turnkey ready to go with no further financial investment,” he said.
The airport has also attracted additional federal money for improvements because it had commercial air service, DeHart said.
In 2025, the airport received $1.7 million from several federal grants for security, terminal and aircraft parking improvements, Neff said.
A city airport consultant said in the fall that Avelo’s first year of operations brought $19 million to Salem’s economy through spending from visitors on hotels, restaurants and more.
A new airline?
Travel Salem and the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce support the effort to recruit a new airline.
Both sent out a survey shortly after Avelo’s announcement to gauge support for a new airline and see where people want flights to go.
That came as budget carrier Breeze Airways announced Thursday it was beefing up its West Coast operations to fill many routes vacated by Avelo, including adding flights to Eugene and Redmond. Salem wasn’t on the list.
DeHart said a group is working on an incentive package for a new carrier, which would include revenue guarantees and airport fee waivers. It’s not yet clear where the money for those efforts would come from, and the city council likely would need to commit to any city spending.
“Fly Salem feels very confident with a competitive incentive package that we would also be on the list for airlines to take up the vacating routes,” he said.
RELATED COVERAGE:
Councilors won’t act on Avelo contract, saying it’s financially risky
One year in, Avelo has received $446k from grant to subsidize Salem operations
Avelo cancels Salem-Las Vegas flights, shifting to seasonal route
Contact reporter Rachel Alexander: [email protected] or 503-575-1241.
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Rachel Alexander is Salem Reporter’s managing editor. She joined Salem Reporter when it was founded in 2018 and covers education, economic development and a little bit of everything else. She’s been a journalist in Oregon and Washington for a decade and is a past president of Oregon’s Society of Professional Journalists chapter. Outside of work, you can often find her gardening or with her nose buried in a book.
Flight Buzz
Air India, Emirates, Lufthansa, Ethiopian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways Ensure Effortless Global Travel for Industry Leaders and Tourism Professionals Attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025 in Delhi
Saturday, July 19, 2025
The Grand Tourism Expo (TGT Expo) stands as a premier business and tourism exhibition, bringing together global tourism boards, high-net-worth travelers, and industry leaders from around the world. This prestigious event, taking place on July 20 – 21, 2025, provides an unmatched platform to explore tourism opportunities, engage with decision-makers, and discover the latest trends in the travel industry. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Delhi, this exhibition promises an exciting opportunity for business leaders, travel professionals, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Major airlines such as Air India, Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, and many more will play a crucial role in facilitating seamless travel for delegates, ensuring smooth access to the event.
Event Overview: A Global Tourism Hub
The TGT Expo 2025 is an anticipated event in the tourism and hospitality industry. With over 300 exhibitors, the exhibition will feature representatives from more than 25 countries. This gathering promises a rich blend of business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) interactions, offering unparalleled opportunities for business growth, partnerships, and networking.
Key Stats for 2025
- 1500+ Corporate Visitors: A significant number of corporate decision-makers will attend, offering valuable opportunities for business negotiations and networking.
- 300+ Exhibitors: With exhibitors from over 25 countries, attendees will have access to a wide range of tourism products and services.
- 10000+ Visitors: The expo is expected to attract a large crowd, creating a dynamic environment for engagement and discovery.
- 17+ Sectors: The event will cover various sectors of the travel industry, from luxury travel to adventure tourism, making it a well-rounded exhibition for professionals from all walks of the industry.
- 28+ States & UTs: Exhibitors and visitors from various parts of India and beyond will converge, making it a truly diverse event.
Why TGT Expo is a Must-Attend Event
The TGT Expo is not just a place to explore business opportunities, but a hub where industry leaders, influencers, and travel enthusiasts can gather to exchange ideas, discover new destinations, and uncover innovative tourism products. With a diverse array of exhibitors and an audience of top-level professionals, it’s the ideal space to unlock business growth and strategic partnerships.
B2B and B2C Opportunities
TGT Expo is unique in that it offers both B2B and B2C business opportunities. Through a partnership with Hathfin Development Pvt Ltd, the expo taps into a network of over 5000 high-net-worth families in Delhi NCR, making it an exclusive platform for showcasing premium products and services to a qualified audience.
Prime Location: Delhi – The Gateway to Global Tourism
As one of India’s most visited cities, Delhi is a perfect host for the TGT Expo. Known for its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure, Delhi is an important business and tourism hub. The city provides seamless international access, boasts world-class infrastructure, and is home to over 5000 major corporate headquarters.
Delhi’s strategic location also makes it an ideal gateway for global tourists, with access to major destinations such as the Golden Triangle. Additionally, the city’s status as a cultural powerhouse further elevates its appeal as the ideal venue for a global tourism expo.
Why Visit the TGT Expo?
Visitors to the TGT Expo 2025 will have the chance to explore some of the world’s leading travel destinations, uncover the latest trends in tourism, and take advantage of special offers and discounts available exclusively at the event. Whether you’re planning your next holiday, seeking business travel solutions, or simply looking for travel inspiration, the TGT Expo has something for everyone.
Exclusive Offers & Discounts
Visitors can enjoy exclusive travel deals, discounts on travel packages, early bird specials, and special hotel promotions. These offers provide great value and serve as an added incentive for attendees to take part in the expo.
Expert Advice from Industry Leaders
The expo offers direct access to travel professionals, tour operators, and destination specialists who can provide personalized travel recommendations, expert advice, and insider tips to enhance your travel experience.
Virtual Reality and Interactive Exhibits
A standout feature of the TGT Expo is its immersive virtual reality showcases. Attendees can explore destinations like never before, experiencing far-off lands and exciting adventures from the comfort of the exhibition floor.
Why Exhibit at TGT Expo?
For businesses in the travel and tourism industry, TGT Expo presents an exceptional opportunity to engage with a targeted audience of industry leaders and potential customers. Exhibiting at the event allows businesses to:
- Gain Direct Access to a Targeted Audience: With over 1500 corporate visitors and 10,000 attendees, exhibitors can generate quality leads and expand their reach.
- Increase Brand Visibility: Exhibiting provides a prime opportunity to showcase your brand to a global audience, boosting brand awareness and reputation.
- Generate Leads & Secure New Business: The event serves as an excellent platform for securing new business deals, making it a must-attend for companies looking to grow in the tourism and hospitality sector.
- Expand Your Network: Networking opportunities abound, allowing exhibitors to connect with decision-makers, industry leaders, and potential partners.
- Gain Media Exposure: The expo draws considerable media attention, providing exhibitors with a valuable opportunity for publicity and exposure.
How to Reach the TGT Expo 2025
The Grand Tourism Expo 2025 will be held at a world-class venue in Delhi, strategically located near the city’s key attractions and business districts. Delhi’s international airports will serve as the primary entry points for international delegates, providing seamless access to the event.
Key Airports for International Travel:
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA): One of India’s busiest and most advanced airports, IGIA connects Delhi to over 70 countries worldwide, making it the primary gateway for international visitors attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025. The airport offers efficient transport links to the exhibition venue, ensuring smooth access for delegates.
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR): Located in Bengaluru, this major southern Indian gateway connects travelers to Delhi. It’s an essential entry point for delegates traveling from southern India to attend the expo, offering convenient connections to Delhi.
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD): Serving Hyderabad, this airport is another key hub for delegates traveling to Delhi for the Grand Tourism Expo 2025. Direct flights from this airport provide easy access for attendees coming from southern India.
Airlines Serving the TGT Expo 2025
Travelers from around the world will have access to seamless flights to Delhi from a wide range of global destinations. Leading airlines such as Air India, Lufthansa, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines operate direct flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), ensuring convenient connections for delegates traveling from across the globe.
For delegates arriving from Bengaluru, airlines including Air India, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines provide excellent connectivity to Delhi. Similarly, Air India, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways offer direct flights from Hyderabad, ensuring smooth travel for delegates coming from southern India.
Where to Stay: Luxury Hotels Near the Event Venue
Delhi offers several luxurious hotels that are ideal for delegates attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025. Among the top options are:
The Oberoi, New Delhi: A 5-star hotel blending traditional elegance with modern luxury, located in the heart of Delhi. The Oberoi offers unmatched service, spacious rooms, and a prime location near the expo venue, making it perfect for business delegates and tourists alike.
The Leela Palace New Delhi: This opulent hotel combines traditional Indian architecture with modern comfort. Located in the Diplomatic Enclave, it provides an extravagant stay with luxurious rooms and exceptional service, making it an ideal choice for those attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025.
The Lalit New Delhi: Situated in Connaught Place, this modern luxury hotel features top-tier amenities and spacious rooms. Its proximity to the expo venue and exceptional service make it a great choice for travelers attending the event.
Dining and Entertainment: Where to Eat During the Event
Delhi’s vibrant culinary scene is sure to delight attendees of the Grand Tourism Expo 2025, with a wide range of dining options available during their visit. Notable restaurants include:
Raajsik: Located within The Umrao Hotels & Resorts, Raajsik offers a luxurious dining experience focused on North Indian and Mughlai cuisines. The restaurant’s elegant ambiance and color-changing ceiling make it a great spot for fine dining.
Lakhori-Haveli Dharampura: Situated in Chandni Chowk, this restaurant blends traditional Mughlai flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. Its setting within a heritage haveli provides an immersive dining experience, perfect for attendees looking to explore Delhi’s rich history.
Hauz Khas Social: A vibrant café-bar in Hauz Khas Village, Hauz Khas Social offers a dynamic atmosphere with rooftop views of the historic Hauz Khas Fort. It’s ideal for both daytime co-working and evening socializing during the expo.
Must-Visit Attractions Near the TGT Expo Venue
During your visit to Delhi for the Grand Tourism Expo 2025, make sure to explore the city’s iconic attractions:
Humayun’s Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Humayun’s Tomb is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see for history enthusiasts. It inspired the Taj Mahal and is located just a short distance from the expo venue.
Qutb Minar Complex: Home to the iconic Qutb Minar, this 12th-century tower is one of Delhi’s most famous landmarks. The complex also includes several ruined tombs and monuments, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Delhi’s medieval history.
Mehrauli Archaeological Park: Just a short distance from the Grand Tourism Expo 2025 venue, this park is home to over 440 historical monuments, including the tombs of Balban and Quli Khan, as well as the Rajon ki Baoli, Delhi’s finest step-well.
The Grand Tourism Expo 2025 promises to be a remarkable event, uniting global destinations, tourism professionals, and industry leaders. With major airlines like Air India, Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines providing convenient travel options to Delhi, and luxury hotels such as The Oberoi, The Leela Palace, and The Lalit offering premium accommodations, attendees are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
From seamless access through Indira Gandhi International Airport to the city’s iconic attractions such as Humayun’s Tomb and Qutb Minar Complex, everything about the Grand Tourism Expo 2025 is designed to ensure a world-class experience. Whether you are a business leader seeking new opportunities or a traveler looking for inspiration, the expo offers an unparalleled platform to connect, discover, and grow.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) said that Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace for flights operated by Indian airlines by another month, till August 24.
“No aircraft operated by Indian airlines, or military and civilian flights that are Indian-owned or leased, will be allowed to use Pakistani airspace,” according to a NOTAM (notice to airmen) that came into effect at 3:50 pm India time on Friday.
The ban will remain in place till August 24 at 5:19 am (India time), the PAA said.
India has extended its ailiverspace ban on all Pakistani aircraft until July 24, a measure initially imposed on April 30 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which left 26 people dead. In retaliation, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian aircraft on April 24.
The tit-for-tat restrictions have been renewed several times by both countries.
Flight Buzz
United States Delta Airlines Flight Makes Shocking Emergency Return to Los Angeles After Sudden Mid-Air Engine Fire Sparks Major Aviation Safety Response
Saturday, July 19, 2025
A Delta Airlines flight traveling within the United States was forced to make an unexpected emergency landing after a sudden and intense engine fire broke out shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles International Airport. The aircraft, bound for Atlanta, experienced the mid-air emergency just minutes into its journey, prompting the flight crew to declare an emergency and return to LAX. The fire in the left engine triggered a rapid aviation safety response, with airport firefighting units deployed to secure the landing. Thanks to the crew’s swift actions and precise coordination with air traffic control, the aircraft landed safely, and all passengers and crew members were unharmed, averting what could have been a far more serious incident.
Delta Airlines Boeing 767 Returns to LAX After Engine Fire Shortly After Takeoff on July 18, 2025
A Delta Air Lines flight bound for Atlanta made an emergency return to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on July 18, 2025, after its left engine caught fire shortly after departure. The incident, which involved Flight DL446, highlights the critical role of swift crew response and airport emergency services in maintaining aviation safety.
Incident Overview
Flight DL446, operated by Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines, departed from Los Angeles at its scheduled time and was en route to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) when the flight crew observed abnormal indications suggesting a fire in the aircraft’s left engine. The aircraft involved in the incident was a Boeing 767-400ER, a wide-body twin-engine jet, registered as N836MH and equipped with two General Electric CF6 engines.
Just minutes after liftoff, as the aircraft climbed over the Pacific Ocean, the pilots declared an emergency due to the engine anomaly and requested a priority return to LAX. According to radar tracking from Flightradar24, the aircraft ascended before circling over the Downey and Paramount areas, maintaining controlled altitude and speed while the crew carried out emergency protocols.
Emergency Response and Safe Landing
As the aircraft prepared to return, air traffic controllers coordinated closely with emergency response teams at Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA). Fire and rescue units, including ARFF2 and ground vehicles 089 and 0870, were immediately dispatched to meet the arriving plane.
The Boeing 767 landed safely back at LAX, where fire crews were able to confirm that the flames had been extinguished. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the passengers or the crew. Passengers remained calm during the return, and the captain reportedly made announcements to reassure travelers as fire crews performed post-landing checks.
Upon landing, the aircraft was brought to a controlled stop, and fire personnel conducted a visual inspection to verify that the fire had been completely extinguished. The aircraft was later towed to a designated maintenance area for a more thorough examination.
Eyewitness Coverage and Media Attention
Live coverage from aviation enthusiasts streaming on YouTube via the “LA Flights” channel showed the aircraft’s emergency landing in real time. Viewers could see flames coming from the left engine as the aircraft descended back to LAX. The video also captured partial air traffic control communications, providing additional insight into the coordinated efforts to ensure a safe landing.
Aircraft Details
The aircraft involved in the incident, N836MH, is a 24.6-year-old Boeing 767-432(ER). This long-range model is commonly used on transcontinental and international routes by Delta Air Lines. The Boeing 767 family has served the airline reliably for decades, and although aging, these aircraft are subject to stringent maintenance and inspection protocols.
Previous Similar Event
This is not the first time Delta has faced a similar situation this year. On January 1, 2025, another Delta flight, DL105, experienced a left engine fire shortly after takeoff from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. That flight, bound for São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governor André Franco Montoro International Airport (GRU) in Brazil, was being operated with an Airbus A330-900neo registered as N408DX.
According to flight tracking data, DL105 had just climbed through approximately 4,725 feet when the crew identified a problem with the left engine. Though the crew did not formally declare an emergency, they promptly notified Atlanta Air Traffic Control and turned back toward ATL. The aircraft landed safely despite a heavy landing due to insufficient time to burn off fuel. Emergency crews were ready on the tarmac and sprayed the aircraft’s brakes to prevent overheating.
Investigation and Safety Protocols
In the case of DL446, federal aviation authorities, along with Delta’s internal safety team, are expected to conduct a detailed investigation into the engine fire. All aircraft are designed with robust systems that isolate and extinguish engine fires, and the successful handling of this situation underscores the importance of training and protocol compliance.
Aircraft engine fires, while rare, are taken extremely seriously. The swift action of DL446’s flight crew, who followed standard operating procedures, allowed all passengers to return safely. Incidents like this also emphasize the importance of regular aircraft maintenance, especially for older models still in active service.
A Delta Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Atlanta was forced to make an emergency return after a sudden engine fire mid-air triggered a major aviation safety response. Quick action by the crew ensured a safe landing with no injuries reported.
The emergency return of Delta Flight DL446 on July 18, 2025, was a dramatic yet professionally managed event that ensured the safety of everyone on board. From the moment the fire was detected to the safe landing and firefighting response, the coordination between Delta’s crew and Los Angeles airport authorities was swift and effective. As investigations proceed, Delta is expected to review the findings closely to prevent similar events in the future and uphold its commitment to safety and operational excellence.
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