segunda-feira, 21 de setembro de 2026
domingo, 20 de setembro de 2026
sexta-feira, 18 de setembro de 2026
quinta-feira, 17 de setembro de 2026
KLM Cityhopper Celebrates 60 Years: From Regional Airline to Driving Force of KLM’s European Network
KLM Cityhopper is celebrating its 60th anniversary today. What began in 1966 as Nederlandse Luchtvaart Maatschappij (NLM), with two leased Fokker aircraft and a handful of domestic routes, has grown into an indispensable part of KLM’s network. With 58 aircraft, more than 80 destinations, and over 350 daily flights, KLM Cityhopper connects Europe with the world through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
KLM Cityhopper plays a key role in Schiphol’s hub operations. Each year, it carries around 11 million passengers to destinations across the continent. Passengers from throughout Europe fly with KLM Cityhopper to Amsterdam to connect to KLM’s intercontinental flights. At the same time, travelers from around the world connect through Schiphol to more than 80 European destinations. In this way, KLM Cityhopper contributes to the Netherlands’ global connectivity and KLM’s extensive route network. Destinations added to the network in recent seasons include Biarritz, Exeter, Dubrovnik, Ljubljana, Cork, Jersey, Santiago de Compostela, and Oviedo.
“Sixty years ago, KLM Cityhopper began as a small regional airline. Today, we are an essential part of KLM’s network and play a key role in connecting Europe with the world. This growth is primarily due to the dedication and commitment of our employees. With that same entrepreneurial and innovative spirit, we will continue building the future of regional aviation,” said Maarten Koopmans, Managing Director of KLM Cityhopper.
KLM Cityhopper traces its roots to NLM, which was founded in 1966 to provide fast connections between different regions of the Netherlands. Over the following decades, its network steadily expanded to include destinations across Europe. The Cityhopper name was added in 1976, followed by a merger with NetherLines in 1991 and the integration of KLM UK, ultimately creating KLM Cityhopper.
A Testing Ground for Innovation
As a smaller, agile organization, KLM Cityhopper regularly tests innovations for the broader KLM organization. This enables it to play a pioneering role in operational optimization, sustainability, and new ways of working.
One example is the introduction of virtual reality training for KLM Cityhopper pilots—a valuable and sustainable training method that supplements conventional simulator and in-flight training. Another example is OptiClimb, an application that helps reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions during the climb phase of a flight. Based on flight data such as weight, weather conditions, aircraft type, and route, OptiClimb recommends a speed to the flight crew that allows the aircraft to reach cruising altitude as efficiently as possible.
KLM Cityhopper is also taking part in The Aviation Challenge for the fourth year. As part of the challenge, it is testing new solutions involving artificial intelligence, sustainable aviation fuels, weight reduction, reduced food waste, and the electrification of ground operations.
A Quiet, Fuel-Efficient, and Effective Fleet
KLM Cityhopper remains focused on advancing regional aviation. In the coming years, it will concentrate on further optimizing its network, adding new destinations, and maintaining a modern, efficient, and sustainable fleet.
After operating aircraft made by Dutch manufacturer Fokker for several decades, the airline opted for an Embraer fleet in 2008. Today, Embraer aircraft form the backbone of its operations. The latest-generation Embraer E195-E2 is one of today’s quietest, most fuel-efficient, and most effective passenger aircraft.
Photo credits main picture: Mark Wagtendonk
ANA Group's New Cargo Airline to be Named "ANA Nippon Cargo Airlines"
ANA HOLDINGS INC. announced that its new cargo airline will be named "ANA Nippon Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd" and will operate under the brand name "ANA Nippon Cargo."
・At its establishment on April 1, 2027, the airline will initially remain the existing corporate name "Nippon Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd." The change to the new corporate name is scheduled for the second half of FY2027 or later.
TOKYO, Sept. 14, 2026 - ANA HOLDINGS INC. ("ANA HD") today announced that its new cargo airline will be named "ANA Nippon Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd." operating under the brand name "ANA Nippon Cargo." The airline will be established on April 1, 2027, through the integration of three ANA Group's cargo businesses: ANA Cargo Inc., Nippon Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd., and NCA Japan Co., Ltd.
◆New Company Name (Scheduled for change in the second half of FY2027 or later*)
English: ANA Nippon Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd.
Japanese: ANA Nippon Cargo Airlines 株式会社
*This remains subject to approval by relevant government authorities.
◆New Brand Name (Scheduled for a change on April 1, 2027)
"ANA Nippon Cargo"
The new company and brand names reflect the unified identity of the ANA Group, pride in the "Nippon Quality" behind its service standard, and a commitment to building trust and expertise of the three merging cargo businesses. The inclusion of "Cargo Airlines" also makes it clear that this is a dedicated cargo airline operating its own fleet with direct responsibility for safety and service quality. Moving forward under this unified name and brand, the three companies will operate as one to deliver a more reliable, more responsive air freight service to customers worldwide.
Further details regarding the new brand will be announced closer to the airline's launch.
Japan's First: JAL and Donecle Launch Joint Verification for Fully Autonomous Drone Aircraft Exterior Inspections
Tokyo, JAPAN - Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (hereinafter "JAL") and Donecle (hereinafter "Donecle"), a French manufacturer specializing in aircraft maintenance drones, announced the launch of Japan's first joint project utilizing fully autonomous drones approved in aircraft manufacturer's maintenance manuals for exterior aircraft inspections at JAL's hangars. This initiative is designed to improve the safety and efficiency of aircraft maintenance operations.
The project aims to significantly reduce inspection time and enhance the safety of maintenance work by replacing traditional manual visual inspections with drone technology. Furthermore, reallocating the time saved to predictive maintenance is expected to further enhance aircraft quality.
Visual inspections of aircraft exteriors traditionally require mechanics to spend extensive time checking the massive airframes, often involving working at heights, which poses safety challenges. To address these issues, JAL is working to establish a workflow where drones capture high-resolution images of the exterior for mechanics to review and inspect. Since the end of June 2026, JAL has been conducting comparisons between conventional visual inspections and drone-captured images to verify the effectiveness of drone technology in aircraft maintenance.
The "Iris GVI" drones used in this project, developed by Donecle, are highly reliable and approved for use in aircraft manufacturers' maintenance manuals. Equipped with obstacle detection capabilities, these drones can fly autonomously without contacting the aircraft, ensuring consistent operation independent of operator skill and capturing high-resolution images under uniform standards. Moreover, image analysis technology enables precise mapping and measurement of defect areas.
Drone Model Used: Iris GVI
Manufacturer | Donecle (France) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | Length 855mm × Width 855mm × Height 245mm | |||
Weight | 3,700g (including battery) | |||
Operation Mode | Fully autonomous flight | |||
Future Outlook
While the project is currently focused on operational demonstration tests within hangars, future phases aim to expand the scope--such as minimizing flight delays through faster unscheduled lightning strike inspections and regular monitoring of aircraft paint conditions--in continued collaboration with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), aiming for further improvements in punctuality and aircraft quality.
Through this partnership, JAL and Donecle are committed to pioneering drone integration in global aviation maintenance, driving innovation to support safe, secure, and reliable air travel.
About Japan Airlines:
Japan Airlines (JAL) was established in 1951 as Japan's first private airline. Today, as a member of the oneworld® Alliance, the airline operates a fleet of 234 aircraft (as of March 2026) throughout an extensive domestic and international network, serving 413 airports in 71 countries/regions together with other JAL Group and partner airlines. The airline has been the proud recipient of many accolades for its exceptional service, including recognition as a 5-Star Airline by Skytrax and "World Class" by APEX. Under its brand slogan of Soaring Together, JAL strives to awaken senses, lift spirits and inspire, and make meaningful connections for its customers and stakeholders throughout society. The airline is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of flight safety and overall service quality, striving to be the most preferred airline by customers worldwide.
NEW AIRLINE - Southern Vision Investment Becomes Strategic Investor in AVi8 Airways
Long-term strategic partnership to build AVi8 into Southeast Asia’s dedicated ACMI-Charter platform. Investment terms will be disclosed in official fillings at a later time.
HO CHI MINH CITY, VN / ACCESS Newswire / AVi8 Airways, a startup ACMI and charter airline serving the Asia-Pacific region, today announced that Southern Vision Investment (SVI) has become a strategic investor in the company, forming a long-term partnership to support AVi8’s growth across Southeast Asia.
The investment establishes SVI as a committed, long-horizon financial partner as AVi8 builds toward the launch of operations. Full terms of the investment, which allows for certification will be disclosed later in official filings.
AVi8 is building a dedicated ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) and charter airline, operating Airbus A320-family aircraft for passenger and charter services and A321F and A330F freighters for its cargo operations, serving customers across one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
“We are proud to walk alongside AVi8 Airways for the long term,” said Le Yen Thi, Managing Director of SVI Group. “This is not a short-term position - it is a commitment to accompany the company through every stage of its journey. We believe in the team, in the ACMI and charter model, and in the long-term future of aviation across Southeast Asia.”
This partnership reflects a shared, long-term ambition: to build enduring aviation infrastructure for Southeast Asia, combining AVi8’s ACMI and charter capabilities with SVI’s conviction and financial strength.
“With the support of SVI Group, AVi8 Airways will have the strong financial preparation it needs to pursue a genuinely long-term plan - one measured in years, not quarters,” said Minh Nguyen, Managing Director of AVi8 Airways. “Our ambition is clear: to build AVi8 into the leading ACMI and charter platform for Southeast Asia. Having a strategic investor of SVI’s caliber and conviction beside us gives us the stability and the confidence to execute that vision - aircraft by aircraft, and partnership by partnership.”
The ACMI and charter model is prized for its flexibility and capital efficiency, allowing airlines to add capacity during peak seasons - from Lunar New Year, Golden Week, and Songkran to the summer holidays and Hajj and Umrah - and to serve cargo flows that traditional scheduled models cannot address efficiently. AVi8 intends to sit at the center of this demand as a dedicated, airline-to-airline capacity provider.
With SVI’s backing, AVi8 plans to introduce Airbus A320-family aircraft, alongside A321F and A330F freighters for its cargo operations, toward a commercial launch in 2027 - beginning with cargo before expanding its passenger charter and ACMI services - and to grow its fleet steadily as it establishes itself as a trusted capacity partner across the region.
About AVi8 Airways
AVi8 Airways is a Singapore-structured airline backed by AVi8 Air Capital, an aviation investment fund founded by Ed Wegel, one of the industry’s most experienced airline entrepreneurs. Over nearly four decades, Wegel has helped found and build five airlines across multiple markets, with deep experience in airline start-up, fundraising, operations, and growth.
AVi8 Airways is building a dedicated ACMI and Charter platform for the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, providing aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) capacity to airline partners while serving passenger charter and cross-border cargo demand. As part of its strategy, AVi8 plans to apply for an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in Cambodia and to establish an operational hub in Phnom Penh, leveraging the country’s strategic location to optimise its network and connect key markets across the region.
FLEET - Red Sea Airlines (Egypt) has agreed to lease two new B737-8 from (Ireland) as the carrier plans to expand its fleet to 14 aircraft by 2028
Delivery is set for July and August 2027.
Red Sea will also receive a B737-800 from Aergo Capital (Ireland) by the end of 2026 and is negotiating with lessors for another seven aircraft.
FLEET - flydubai (UAE) has announced the next phase of its growth strategy, expanding its fleet beyond 100 aircraft and launching a new cabin retrofit program in September 2026.
The airline will take delivery of 11 additional aircraft in 2026, including seven B737-9 and four B737-8.
quarta-feira, 16 de setembro de 2026
SPECIAL LIVERY - Countdown takes flight as Emirates’ new Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 livery lands in Sydney
The bold orange design marks Emirates' 5th consecutive Rugby World Cup livery, celebrating Australia as host nation
FLEET - Cessna Grand Caravan Ex Chosen To Support Cape Air's Montana Network
Cape Air plans to introduce the Cessna Grand Caravan EX turboprops into its Montana network beginning in 2027, transitioning regional operations to the proven turboprop platform. The airline selected the aircraft for its reliability, performance and increased cargo capacity, helping support the dependable air service communities throughout the region rely on every day.
“Operators around the world continue to choose the Cessna Grand Caravan EX because it delivers the dependability and operating flexibility needed to perform day after day,” said Chris Crow, vice president, Piston & Utility aircraft sales at Textron Aviation. “The high-wing, single-engine turboprop is a natural fit for Cape Air’s mission, providing the versatility needed to efficiently move passengers, baggage and cargo while maintaining the reliability their customers depend on.”
Founded in 1989, Cape Air is one of the largest regional airlines in the United States, serving 34 cities across the United States and the Caribbean. Headquartered in Hyannis, Massachusetts, the employee-owned airline operates more than 300 flights per day and provides essential connectivity for communities throughout its network.
"The communities we serve in Eastern Montana are unique, and we're proud to continue investing in air service that meets their needs," said Mike Migliore, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cape Air. "The Grand Caravan is a proven, dependable aircraft that will provide additional flexibility for passengers traveling with baggage, sporting equipment, work gear, and other essential items. It is a great fit for our Montana operation and reinforces our long-term commitment to the communities we serve.”
2026 ROUTES
TransNusa (Indonesia) will begin flights between Melbourne and Bali on 19 October 2026, with A320.
IrAero (Russia) schedules Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky – Harbin on 24 October 2026, with SSJ100.
Air Premia (South Korea) plans Seoul Incheon – Sapporo New Chitose flights on 02 December 2026, with B787-9.
Wizz Air (Hungary) schedules five new routes from Pristina to Berlin, Hahn, Hamburg, Malmo and Trieste beginning December 2026. It is also adding a second based aircraft.
West Air (China) plans Taiyuan – Nanning – Yangon flights on 25 September 2026, with A320.
Chongqing Airlines (China) plans to resume services to Bangkok and Penang from Chongqing on 25 October 2026, with A321neo and A320neo.
Wizz Air (Hungary) is restoring some of its Middle East network for the 2026/27 winter season, bringing back 12 routes connecting European cities with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah and Amman.
Jetstar Japan announced the launch of Okinawa – Kaohsiung route on 24 August 2026, with A320.
Israir (Israel) schedules Tel Aviv – New York JFK on 16 September 2026, with A330-200.
Air Algerie no longer plans to operate the Algiers – Delhi flight with A330-900, effective 25 October 2026.
Please confirm all flights with your airline.