United Technologies Corp.’s proposed $30 billion acquisition of Rockwell Collins will create an unparalleled aerospace supplier, marrying the latter’s avionics and cabin interiors business with UTC Aerospace Systems, and with engine maker Pratt & Whitney not far apart.

Drone for Saturn’s moon; solar wing for atmospheric satellite; China develops alumics; robot applies riblets, and new alloy for metal printing.

Air Berlin may be sold off in bits or as a whole, with several carriers positioning themselves for advantage in the German market.

Travel agencies’ interest in copying the Spring Airlines model should promote budget aviation in China, but there are barriers to the model.

On Capitol Hill, many deadlines and obstacles must be overcome to keep government functioning; A&D leaders remain focused on potential tax cuts; Sen. McCain gears up to return.

The long-haul, low-cost airline model remains strongest in Asia, but most have struggled to extend routes to other regions.

The major Asia-Pacific LCC players have placed more than 1,700 orders for narrowbody aircraft, but other constraints could slow growth.

New multirotor unmanned aircraft are coming onto the market. They combine vertical-takeoff-and-landing ease of use with longer flight times to increase productivity on commercial missions.