Duncan Stewart
quarta-feira, 4 de fevereiro de 2026
FLEET - SkyWest received five new E175s in the fourth quarter of 2025, under an agreement with United Airlines, and also signed a multi-year contract extension with United for 40 E175s in January 2026, in addition to a multi-year contract extension with Delta Air Lines for 13 E175s, also in January 2026.
By the end of 2028, SkyWest anticipates having nearly 300 E175 aircraft in its fleet.
Aviator
NEW AIRLINE - Shohin Airlines (Tajikistan) has been registered in the country as a private carrier, and is currently based at Dushanbe.
Key Details About Shohin Airlines:
Status: Newly registered private airline (January 2026).
Goal: Expanding Tajikistan's aviation market.
Fleet Plans: Eyeing L410s and Airbuses.
This development is part of a broader expansion in the Tajikistani aviation sector, which is increasingly dominated by private entities alongside the national carrier, Tajik Air.
ROUTES - Air Canada will launch flights from Toronto Pearson to Quito on 04 December 2026
As Toronto-Manchester and Toronto-Copenhagen become year-round supported by a A321XLR base. Also, new Calgary services to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta launch December 2026.
FLEET - JD Airlines launches A330-200P2F widebody operations
Cargofacts
AIRCRAFT - Airbus, Singapore achieve world-first on A330 MRTT auto-refuelling full certification
Singapore, 4 February 2026 — Airbus and Singapore have achieved full certification of the Automatic Air-to-Air Refuelling (A3R) capability on the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). The Certification was granted by the Spanish National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA) following an extensive qualification and flight-test campaign conducted in close collaboration with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).
This represents a key milestone in the continued development of the A330 MRTT platform and marks a world-first in aviation, with the campaign confirming the A3R system’s maturity, safety, and reliability across a wide range of mission profiles. With this certification, the RSAF becomes the first air force globally to introduce A3R on its fleet of A330 MRTTs, operated by 112 Squadron, setting a new benchmark for automated refuelling.
Mike Schoellhorn, Chief Executive Officer at Airbus Defence and Space said: “The certification of A3R with Singapore is a significant achievement and a clear demonstration of what long-term partnership can deliver. Singapore has consistently led the adoption and co-development of next-generation aerospace technologies, and Airbus is proud to support the RSAF and DSTA in fielding a capability that will shape the future of air-to-air refuelling."
Ng Chad-son, Chief Executive, Defence Science and Technology Agency, said: “Achieving full certification of A3R is a significant achievement as Singapore’s A330 MRTTs can now perform automatic refuelling both in daytime and at night. DSTA worked very closely with the RSAF and Airbus to advance innovation, enhance safety and reduce crew workload. This attainment showcases effective technology integration and sets a new benchmark on automatic aerial refuelling globally.”
Major-General Kelvin Fan, Chief of Air Force at Republic of Singapore Air Force said: “The RSAF is pleased to have partnered with DSTA and Airbus in pioneering the world's first A3R capability. This development will enhance the RSAF's aerial refuelling operations, contributing to greater operational effectiveness. It also reflects the RSAF's commitment to working with industry partners to innovate and remain at the leading edge of technology."
The joint effort between Airbus, RSAF and DSTA began in 2020 to validate and accelerate entry into service of the A3R system. The certification programme encompassed day and night missions, expanded flight envelopes, and multiple receiver aircraft types, ensuring full mission readiness. The flight trials took place both in Spain and Singapore, with the RSAF providing the A330 MRTTs, as well as F16s and F15s, as receivers to support the testing and validations.
Developed by Airbus as part of its SMART MRTT vision, the A3R system employs advanced automation and computer vision technologies to automatically detect, track, and engage receiver aircraft, without the need for manual input. By reducing operator workload and enhancing precision, A3R improves mission safety, and delivers greater operational flexibility for air forces operating the A330 MRTT.
ORDER - Tigerair Taiwan orders four Airbus A321neo
The low-cost carrier which currently operates a fleet of 17 A320 Family aircraft, including nine A320ceo and eight A320neo, will benefit from greater commonality across the A320 Family, reducing training, maintenance and operating costs.
“The purchase of A321neo aircraft is a cornerstone of our ‘third-generation’ fleet expansion, designed to maximise operational efficiency as we scale for regional dominance,” said Chairperson Joyce Huang of Tigerair Taiwan. “Configured with 232 seats, the A321neo allows us to increase capacity on our high-demand ‘golden routes’ and accelerate network expansion. By serving more passengers across more destinations with a lower cost per seat, this investment reinforces our position as Taiwan’s leading LCC. Furthermore, it advances our journey toward a younger, more fuel-efficient fleet that meets both our commercial and ESG targets.”
“We are pleased to see Tigerair Taiwan reaffirm its confidence in Airbus as it takes another step in its fleet growth. The addition of the A321neo will complement its existing A320 fleet,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of Commercial Aircraft business. “The A321neo is the ideal platform for Tigerair Taiwan to capture growing demand while maintaining its commitment to cost-effective operations.”
The A321neo, the largest member of Airbus’ best-selling A320neo Family, offers segment-leading operating economics and extended range, enabling airlines to serve regional and medium-haul routes with greater flexibility. Compared with previous-generation aircraft, the A321neo delivers a reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions of at least 20%.
The A320neo Family has received more than 10,000 orders from over 130 customers worldwide. All Airbus aircraft are capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) today, with a target to enable 100% SAF capability by 2030.
ORDER - Vietjet selects RTX’s Pratt & Whitney to power 44 additional A320neo family aircraft
SINGAPORE, Feb. 4, 2026 – Vietjet Air and Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, announce that the airline has selected an additional 44 GTF-powered Airbus A320neo family aircraft, including 24 A321neos and 20 A321XLRs, bringing its total orders to 137 GTF-powered aircraft. Deliveries will start in July 2026. Pratt & Whitney will also provide Vietjet with engine maintenance through a 12-year EngineWise® Comprehensive service agreement.
Based in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, Vietjet received its first A321neo aircraft in 2018 and currently operates a fleet of 42 GTF-powered A321neo aircraft. Prior to this order, Vietjet committed to up to 93 aircraft of this type.
Vietjet
SPECIAL COLOURS - JetBlue Reveals Community-Chosen Livery Celebrating the Dominican Republic
Designed by Dominican artist Willy Gómez, the aircraft will debut this spring
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- JetBlue (Nasdaq: JBLU), the largest airline serving the Dominican Republic, today proudly announces that a vibrant design by artist Willy Gómez has been selected for its first-ever special aircraft livery honoring the Dominican Republic. Chosen by public vote, the design celebrates the country’s rich cultural identity while underscoring JetBlue’s long-standing commitment to the Dominican community.
The livery is part of RD Orgullo que Eleva (DR Pride That Lifts), a campaign developed in collaboration with Dominican artists to elevate local talent and showcase the cultural pride, creativity, and spirit of the Dominican Republic.
“We’re proud to bring Dominican pride to the skies with JetBlue’s first livery dedicated to the Dominican Republic, designed by Willy Gómez and chosen by the community,” said Marty St. George, president of JetBlue. “This aircraft is a celebration of the culture, creativity, and energy of a country that has played a central role in JetBlue’s history. From opening Santiago, our first international destination in 2004, to becoming the largest airline serving the Dominican Republic, we are excited to celebrate more than two decades of service and connection.”
“Seeing this art take flight is seeing my roots rise,” said Willy Gómez. “It’s a tribute to my country, to its color, its energy, and the inspiration that has been with me always."
Launched in January, the RD Orgullo que Eleva campaign invited customers and fans to vote for their favorite design among three original concepts created by Dominican artists including Gómez, Los Plebeyos, and Lena Tolkens. Each design offered a distinct interpretation of Dominican culture, drawing inspiration from folklore, music, everyday life, nature, family, and national symbolism through each artist’s unique creative lens. JetBlue is grateful to the three artists for their creativity and passion, which brought powerful and authentic perspectives to this celebration.
Following an enthusiastic public response, the selected design will take flight later this spring on a JetBlue Airbus A320. More than a visual transformation, the livery serves as a flying tribute to the Dominican Republic and the millions of customers who share a deep connection to the country. It also reflects JetBlue’s continued investment and commitment to bringing together family and friends, supporting tourism and the local economy, and promoting the Dominican Republic as a dynamic, must-visit destination.
With more than 20 years of experience as an art director, illustrator, and muralist, Gómez draws on Neo-traditional and Art Nouveau influences to celebrate Dominican culture. His design captures the country’s rhythm and warmth through expressive linework, tropical motifs, and bold color contrasts inspired by music, dance, and coastal life. The aircraft will serve as a powerful symbol of Dominican pride and presence carrying that spirit across JetBlue’s network.
SPONSORSHIP - Etihad Airways Named Official Partner and Sponsor of Race 1 at the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has been announced as the Official Partner of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup and Presenting Partner of Race 1. The strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Turf Club sets the stage for an extraordinary celebration of sport, heritage, and world-class hospitality as Abu Dhabi continues to rise as a destination for elite international events.
The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup takes place on Saturday, 7 February 2026 at Abu Dhabi Turf Club. The one-mile race carries a total prize fund of USD 1 million, drawing elite thoroughbred horses, world-class jockeys, and renowned trainers from leading racing nations worldwide.
Organised by Abu Dhabi Turf Club, the event is central to the Club's ambitious vision to establish Abu Dhabi as a premier global destination for horse racing excellence, innovation, and exceptional race-day experiences, while honouring the UAE's rich equestrian heritage.
Through this partnership, Etihad will welcome international racing enthusiasts travelling to the capital for the event, bringing together two organisations united by their Abu Dhabi roots and driven by a shared ambition to deliver world-class experiences and the highest standards of excellence.
His Excellency Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Abu Dhabi Turf Club and President of the Organising Committee, commented:
"We are delighted to welcome Etihad as an Official Sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup and Presenting Partner of Race 1. As the UAE's national airline, Etihad plays a vital role in connecting Abu Dhabi to the world, and this partnership strengthens the Emirate's presence on the international racing stage. Together, we are showcasing Abu Dhabi as a global meeting point and destination hub for elite sport, world-class competition and international audiences."
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said:
"Etihad is proud to partner with The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, an event that reflects the same standards of excellence and ambition that define our airline. Just as we connect Abu Dhabi to the world through extraordinary travel experiences, this partnership allows us to welcome the global racing community to our home. The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup represents the Emirate's vision for world-class sporting events, and as the national airline, it is our privilege to play a role in bringing this prestigious occasion to international audiences and showcasing the very best of what Abu Dhabi has to offer."
Beyond the race itself, the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup delivers a complete championship race-day experience, combining top-tier sporting action with refined hospitality, premium dining, and curated entertainment. The event demonstrates the evolution of Abu Dhabi Turf Club into a destination that seamlessly blends elite sport with an exceptional lifestyle experience.
Through this strategic partnership, Abu Dhabi Turf Club and Etihad, the award-winning national airline of the United Arab Emirates, position the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup as a symbol of progress and ambition. The event reflects Abu Dhabi's rising stature on the world thoroughbred circuit, delivering premium guest experiences where sport, culture, and heritage come together, setting a new benchmark for what elite racing events can achieve.
terça-feira, 3 de fevereiro de 2026
ORDER - NEW AIRLINE - AirBorneo Chooses ATR to Modernise Rural Air Service Fleet in East Malaysia
AirBorneo and ATR today announced a strategic partnership to modernise Malaysia’s Rural Air Services (RAS) fleet, with AirBorneo confirming a firm order for eight ATR aircraft. The agreement comprises five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, with purchase rights for four additional aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2029.
This marks a significant milestone in AirBorneo’s transformation into Sarawak’s state-owned airline and its assumption of responsibility for the RAS network, a vital public service that connects remote and underserved communities across Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan.
Finalised in late 2025, the order supports AirBorneo’s long-term fleet renewal strategy following the acquisition of MASwings by the Sarawak government in 2025 and its subsequent rebranding as AirBorneo. The airline currently operates eight ATR 72-500 aircraft inherited from MASwings. The new-generation ATR –600 series will form the backbone of a more efficient and more resilient RAS operation for East Malaysia.
The introduction of the ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 aircraft will enable AirBorneo to enhance passenger experience, operational reliability and service capability. The aircraft feature advanced avionics, modern navigation technologies and improved cabin comfort. They are also equipped to support medical stretcher operations and are optimised for reliable operations across diverse regional and rural route environments in Borneo.
The mixed fleet gives AirBorneo greater flexibility to right-size capacity across diverse route profiles, while benefiting from the strong commonality of the ATR family. The agreement also includes four purchase rights, providing future growth options beyond the RAS network, including potential regional expansion within the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area.
“This partnership with ATR marks a major milestone in AirBorneo’s commitment to delivering reliable, safe and modern air services for the communities we serve,” said Megat Ardian, Chief Executive Officer of AirBorneo. “Our new ATR –600 fleet will significantly strengthen the Rural Air Services network by offering improved comfort, greater efficiency and the operational capability required for regional connectivity in East Malaysia. The ATR platform has consistently proven to be the most suitable aircraft for our operating environment, and upgrading to the latest –600 series ensures we can continue providing essential connectivity while preparing AirBorneo for long-term growth.”
“AirBorneo’s decision to invest in both the ATR 72-600 and ATR 42-600 reflects the strength and versatility of the ATR family and its suitability for demanding regional operations,” said Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. “The ATR 42-600, with its exceptional efficiency and low operating costs, is ideally suited for serving lower-density regional routes, while the ATR 72-600 provides additional capacity where it is needed. We are proud to partner with AirBorneo in strengthening reliable air connectivity across Borneo and the wider region.”
ATR
ORDER - Boeing and Air Cambodia Announce Airline's Largest Single-Aisle Order for up to 20 737 MAX Jets
SINGAPORE, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire(opens in a new tab)/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Air Cambodia today announced the airline's largest single-aisle order for up to 20 737 MAX
airplanes in an agreement unveiled at the Singapore Airshow.
This marks the Southeast Asian carrier's first purchase of fuel-efficient Boeing airplanes.
New Boeing customer, Air Cambodia, orders up to 20 737 MAX jets that will fly in the airline’s new livery.
The airline finalized its firm order for 10 737-8 jets and opportunity for 10 more in December 2025. The order was previously unidentified on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website.
With the 737 MAX, Air Cambodia will renew and grow its fleet as air travel serves an increasing role in connecting people and places throughout the region. The airline will leverage the 737-8's capabilities, efficiency and passenger comfort features for its expanding network of high-demand routes across Asia.
"The 737-8 gives Air Cambodia the ideal combination of range, capacity and fuel efficiency to support our next phase of growth," said Dr. David Zhan, CEO of Air Cambodia. "This investment – Air Cambodia's largest narrowbody purchase – will let us launch direct services to important markets across North and Southeast Asia, and offer competitively priced travel for passengers, while creating local jobs and training opportunities that strengthen our communities."
The 737-8, which can fly up to 178 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km), is well-suited to support the airline's growing regional network. Air Cambodia will benefit from the airplane's flexible capacity and lower operating costs due to a 20% reduction in fuel use and emissions compared to the airplanes it replaces.
"We are proud to welcome Air Cambodia as our newest 737 MAX customer and look forward to partnering with them to introduce the versatile and reliable 737-8 to the Kingdom of Cambodia," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "We are committed to supporting the growth of aviation in Cambodia and throughout the region as Air Cambodia strengthens ties across Asia with these fuel-efficient airplanes."
Air Cambodia currently operates a fleet of six single-aisle and regional jets on domestic and international routes to Vietnam, India, Thailand, China, Japan and Hong Kong.
Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook forecasts Southeast Asian carriers will need nearly 5,000 new airplanes over the next twenty years, with single-aisle jets comprising more than 80% of deliveries.
This marks the Southeast Asian carrier's first purchase of fuel-efficient Boeing airplanes.
New Boeing customer, Air Cambodia, orders up to 20 737 MAX jets that will fly in the airline’s new livery.
The airline finalized its firm order for 10 737-8 jets and opportunity for 10 more in December 2025. The order was previously unidentified on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website.
With the 737 MAX, Air Cambodia will renew and grow its fleet as air travel serves an increasing role in connecting people and places throughout the region. The airline will leverage the 737-8's capabilities, efficiency and passenger comfort features for its expanding network of high-demand routes across Asia.
"The 737-8 gives Air Cambodia the ideal combination of range, capacity and fuel efficiency to support our next phase of growth," said Dr. David Zhan, CEO of Air Cambodia. "This investment – Air Cambodia's largest narrowbody purchase – will let us launch direct services to important markets across North and Southeast Asia, and offer competitively priced travel for passengers, while creating local jobs and training opportunities that strengthen our communities."
The 737-8, which can fly up to 178 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km), is well-suited to support the airline's growing regional network. Air Cambodia will benefit from the airplane's flexible capacity and lower operating costs due to a 20% reduction in fuel use and emissions compared to the airplanes it replaces.
"We are proud to welcome Air Cambodia as our newest 737 MAX customer and look forward to partnering with them to introduce the versatile and reliable 737-8 to the Kingdom of Cambodia," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "We are committed to supporting the growth of aviation in Cambodia and throughout the region as Air Cambodia strengthens ties across Asia with these fuel-efficient airplanes."
Air Cambodia currently operates a fleet of six single-aisle and regional jets on domestic and international routes to Vietnam, India, Thailand, China, Japan and Hong Kong.
Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook forecasts Southeast Asian carriers will need nearly 5,000 new airplanes over the next twenty years, with single-aisle jets comprising more than 80% of deliveries.
SPECIAL COLOURS - Lufthansa flies in historic parable design II
Blue Airbus A350-900 at Munich hub
The Lufthansa anniversary fleet, which commemorates the company's founding anniversary with an XXL crane, has also grown: yesterday, Monday, a blue Airbus A350-900 with the registration D-AIXL landed in Munich. It had previously been freshly painted in Châteauroux, France. It is already the third aircraft in this extraordinary design: a Boeing 787-9 and an Airbus A320neo, both based in Frankfurt, are already flying in the 100-year design. At least one Airbus A380, one Boeing 747-8, and one Airbus A350-1000 will follow in the coming weeks.
SPECIAL COLOURS - Lufthansa flies in historic parable design
Iconic appearance of a legendary super star on Airbus A321Planned arrival of the aircraft today at around 2:45 p.m. at Frankfurt AirportXXL crane on blue Airbus A350 at Munich hub
The Airbus A321 now bears the historic Lufthansa parable design. It was introduced in the mid-1950s and was inspired by the streamlined trend of the 1930s. It was intended to signal dynamism, speed, and a forward-looking approach. The parable line was not only visible on the aircraft's tail fins, but also on baggage tags, business documents, flight schedules, and even cigar bands.
Almost 70 years after its maiden flight for Lufthansa, this iconic parable design can once again be seen in the skies. In 1957, the Super Star joined the Lufthansa fleet. Its special feature: this aircraft was the first to offer Senator Class, the most exclusive way to travel at the time. Its main focus was the non-stop connection to New York across the North Atlantic. A restored Lockheed L-1649A Super Star will soon be on display alongside a Junkers Ju 52 in the new Lufthansa Group Hangar One. The conference and visitor center at Frankfurt Airport will open in April.
Lufthansa
segunda-feira, 2 de fevereiro de 2026
sexta-feira, 30 de janeiro de 2026
SPECIAL COLOURS - As the Official Airline of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, ITA Airways has introduced special liveries on two aircraft, the A320 Gustav Thoeni and A320neo Enrico Fabris, featuring illustrations of Olympic and Paralympic disciplines by illustrator Emiliano Ponzi.
These designs celebrate Italian winter sports legends and the games' spirit.
Key Aspects of the 2026 Winter Olympics Initiative:
Special Livery: Two aircraft in the fleet are decorated with, or dedicated to, Winter Olympic and Paralympic themes and, in some cases, named after legends like Gustav Thöni and Enrico Fabris.
Design Elements: The designs represent various winter sports disciplines to celebrate the upcoming games.
Main Livery: The standard ITA Airways livery remains the Savoy Blue, a color chosen to represent the Italian national team, with a gold, white, and red logo.
Partnership Focus: The initiative highlights ITA's role as the official carrier and ambassador for Italian excellence in the 2026 Games.
These special liveries, along with the "Inspired by Alitalia" branding appearing on some aircraft, aim to showcase Italian pride during the Winter Olympic season.
EI-DSY / Airbus A320-216
Photo:Radim Koblížka
FLEET - National Jet Express (Nje) Welcomes Additional Q400 Aircraft
On 30 January 2026, NUE welcomed it's 12 De Havilland Q400 aircraft to its fleet. After arriving in Perth last weekend, the aircraft has today commenced services for NJE's mining, resources and construction clients, adding additional capacity to support strong demand for NJE's services around Australia as well as providing additional coverage during periods of scheduled aircraft maintenance.
The Q400 aircraft (registered VH-8QD) will operate alongside NJE's fleet of eight (8) Embraer E190 jets in Perth to support the continuing growth of NJE's presence in the Mining, Resources and Construction industries. The delivery of VH-8QD beings NUE's fleet dedicated to the provision of passenger charter services to twenty (20) aircraft. NUE anticipates another De Havilland Q400 to join its fleet before the end of the Financial Year.
This cements NJE's place as one of Australia's premier Mining and Resources FIFO charter operators, as well as allowing NJE to increasingly support other charter clients across the sporting, leisure and education sectors.
quinta-feira, 29 de janeiro de 2026
FLEET - EgyptAir’s first Airbus A350-900 (registration SU-GGE, MSN 767) successfully completed its maiden test flight from Toulouse on January 22, 2026. As a new A350 operator, this aircraft marks a major fleet modernization, with plans to operate up to eight A350-900s by late 2026 to enhance long-haul, particularly U.S., routes.
Maiden Flight: Conducted on January 22, 2026, lasting over 3 hours to test systems and airworthiness.
Registration: SU-GGE (Test Registration: F-WZGZ).
Manufacturing Serial Number (MSN): 767.
Key Features: The aircraft will feature high fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and improved passenger comfort.
Operational Role: Set to replace the Boeing 777-300ER fleet, primarily for long-haul expansion.
Fleet Growth: The airline is expanding its widebody fleet with, in part, three A350-900s secured through a leasing agreement with BOC Aviation.
Photos: A380_TLS_A350
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