terça-feira, 30 de junho de 2026

SPECIAL LIVERY - STARLUX / Airbus A350-1000 / F-WZNI msn 791 "AIRSORAYAMA Silver cs"


Alain Charpentier - TLS
 

ORDER - SAS orders 18 Airbus A330neo to accelerate growth and fleet modernisation


Scandinavian carrier SAS has placed a firm order with Airbus for 18 A330-900 aircraft as part of its ongoing fleet renewal strategy. The agreement was signed during a ceremony in Copenhagen by Anko van der Werff, SAS CEO and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.

The aircraft will support SAS’ ongoing international network expansion, allowing the airline to increase existing high capacity routes globally and introduce new routes.

“On behalf of SAS, I am delighted to announce this order for the Airbus A330-900. Combining outstanding economics with improved environmental performance, the aircraft will play a key role in our long-term fleet strategy. It will allow us to deliver an exceptional customer experience, expand our network, and offer greater flexibility and convenience for our passengers. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Airbus well into the future”, said Anko van der Werff.

“We are immensely proud to see SAS reaffirm its trust in Airbus to drive its fleet modernisation. The A330-900 is the undisputed benchmark for efficiency and versatility in its category. By integrating these 18 A330neo, SAS will benefit from unbeatable seat-mile economics and seamless operational synergies with its existing Airbus fleet," said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry.

Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo is designed to fly up to 8,100 nautical miles / 15,000 kilometers non-stop and reduces fuel burn, CO2 emissions and operating cost by 25% compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo unique Airspace cabin offers passengers and crews the latest modern in-flight products for a comfortable flying experience.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a target to reach 100% SAF capability by 2030.

At the end of May 2026, the A330 Family had won over 1,950 orders from 133 customers worldwide.

FLEET - Air Peace Expands Fleet With Embraer E175 To Boost Regional Connectivity In West Africa

The delivery of the first E175 aircraft reinforces the airline's strategy to connect underserved routes and increase frequencies across Nigeria and the region


Embraer (NYSE: EMBJ; B3: EMBJ3) has delivered the first brand-new Embraer E175 airplane to Air Peace. The delivery further strengthens the partnership between Embraer and Air Peace, beyond their operations of the larger E195-E2 and the smaller ERJ145 fleet. The E175 will support Air Peace in its ambition to increase connectivity in Nigeria and the region, whilst providing more capacity flexibility to the airline.

“We are delighted to deliver this first factory-new E175 to our partners at Air Peace,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO at Embraer Commercial Aviation. “This delivery highlights the continued demand for right-sized aircraft, with airlines seeking to expand connectivity while maintaining high levels of efficiency and service.”

“The delivery of our first Embraer E175 is a major milestone in Air Peace’s growth, reflecting our commitment to boosting domestic and regional travel with a modern, efficient fleet," said Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman and CEO of Air Peace. “As we strengthen our leadership in West and Central Africa, this aircraft will increase our operational flexibility and market reach, all while maintaining the safety, reliability, and excellent service our passengers expect.

Air Peace’s position as a leading airline in West Africa is further reinforced by the delivery of the E175 which will deliver exceptional fuel efficiency, lower emissions, favorable economics on thin and medium-density routes, and great passenger comfort.

Africa’s aviation sector is set for strong long-term growth, driven by population expansion, urbanization, rising travel demand and the need for better regional links. Embraer’s latest Market Outlook, the African Connectivity Report 2026, identifies 55 intra-African city pairs – up from 45 in 2025 – that still lack direct air services, highlighting the opportunity for right-sized aircraft such as the E175 to open new routes and improve connectivity.

With the introduction of the E175 to Air Peace’s growing fleet, it is expected that both domestic and regional operations will increase through higher flight frequencies on key Nigerian routes and the introduction of new services to additional four African cities.

Embraer’s full 2026 Africa Connectivity Report is available to download here: Connecting Africa: Unlocking Africa's intra-regional connectivity potential.

segunda-feira, 29 de junho de 2026

China Cargo / B777-200F / B-228S - (Fresh flash c_s)

Ton Jochems
 

SPECIAL LIVERY - THY Turkish Airlines / A330-200 / TC-JNB - Turkiye c_s)

Ton Jochems
 


 

FLEET - ASKY AIRLINES is strengthening its fleet with its eighth Boeing 737 MAX 8 and preparing to leap into long-haul flights with the 787.


The airline has been progressively replacing its older Boeing 737 NG aircraft with new-generation jets.

ASKY announced the introduction of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner into its fleet starting in 2027. The introduction of the Dreamliner will allow the airline to operate long-haul flights, potentially connecting Lomé directly to key markets in Europe, North America, Asia, or the Middle East.

ASKY already offers connectivity between major capitals in West and Central Africa, including Lagos, Accra, Abidjan, Dakar, Bamako, Cotonou, Niamey, Ouagadougou, and Kinshasa, etc.

Photo Flyingphotos AI

FLEET - FedEx has now returned four MD-11Fs to operations and aims to have all of its MD-11Fs in service again by 4Q 2026.

Duncan Stewart
 

FLEET - China Southern Cargo first Chinese B777X-customer



China Southern Airlines has announced in a 26 June 2026 filing to the Shanghai stock exchange, that it has signed an agreement with Boeing for additional freighters for its China Southern Cargo-subsidiary. The deal is for two B777Fs and five B777-8Fs, with options on another three B777-8Fs.

With this order, China Southern becomes the first Chinese B777X-customer. Delivery of the two B777Fs is expecting to begin in 2027 and all new freighters should be delivered by 2034.

China Southern Cargo was established as a separate subsidiary by China Southern Airlines in 2019 and is currently operating a fleet of thirteen B777Fs.
Scramble
Photo: Duncan Stewart

FLEET - Vietnam Airlines expects 50 B737 MAX aircraft to be delivered between 2030 and 2032, while also leasing an additional 20 narrowbodies between 2027 and 2028


The carrier also expects to operate its first freighter in 3Q 2026, following the delivery of two lease aircraft for summer flights.
 Photo: Flyingphotos AI

SPECIAL COLOURS / ROUTES - United Sees Increased Demand for Americana-Inspired Trips During Country’s 250th Anniversary

Airline sees increased demand to visit America’s founding cities, including Boston and Philadelphia and bookings to National Park destinations are up double digits

United expects to fly around 6 million passengers this Fourth of July holiday – and nearly 40% of daily flights will have fast, free Starlink Wi-Fi for MileagePlus members

From exclusive access to blockbuster films to premium food and beverage options, United is elevating the passenger experience from nose-to-tail this summer 


Travelers are celebrating the red, white and blue this summer by visiting some of the nation’s most iconic landscapes and historical sights. In the year of the country’s 250th birthday, people are embracing Americana-inspired trips – from exploring National Parks to learning more about the founding of the United States.

Around 6 million passengers are expected to fly United this Fourth of July holiday between June 26 to July 6 – averaging roughly 550,000 passengers per day across nearly 5,000 daily flights. Some passengers will even get the chance to fly United's new "Stars and Stripes" livery that recently took to the skies on a U.S.-built Boeing 787-10 and Boeing 737-800 featuring a bold red, white and blue design. Here are some of the most popular ‘Americana’ inspired destinations this summer:

-American history is having a moment: In the days leading up to the country’s milestone birthday, United is seeing an increase in travel to historical cities – including a 25% increase in bookings to Philadelphia and nearly a 10% increase in bookings to Boston*.

-Exploring America’s natural treasures: More travelers are discovering the beauty of popular U.S. National Parks this summer. United is seeing a nearly 10% increase in bookings to Bangor, Maine (Acadia National Park), a nearly 20% increase to Bozeman, MT (Yellowstone National Park) and a more than 10% increase to Montrose, CO (Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park) the rest of June through the end of August*.

-‘Coolcations’ are heating up: This summer, United is seeing a rise in travel to cooler remote climates – including a nearly a 15% increase in bookings to Fairbanks this June through July and a 40% increase in bookings to Anchorage in August*.

-Celebrating America’s pastime: Ahead of baseball’s biggest summer showcase, United bookings to Philadelphia are up nearly 15% for July 12–13*.

Stay Connected with Starlink

Travelers can keep up with their favorite sporting events, fireworks displays, parades and other holiday festivities onboard thanks to Starlink Wi-Fi, which United will have available for free for MileagePlus members on nearly 40% of its daily flights.

More than 400 United planes now have Starlink – and the airline just launched service on long haul international flights earlier this week. United expects to have close to 1,000 Starlink-equipped aircraft before the end of this year – with the entire fleet outfitted before the end of 2027.

Starlink helps power a more connected and personalized onboard experience by delivering performance that feels closer to being connected at home than traditional inflight Wi-Fi. MileagePlus members on Starlink equipped flights can stream live content, collaborate in real time, game, shop, and sync multiple devices, transforming the cabin into a fully connected space from gate to gate.

United Debuts Exclusive Blockbusters and Elevated Food & Beverage Offerings this Summer 

From highly-anticipated blockbusters to premium culinary offerings – the airline is rolling out new offerings for customers from nose-to tail this summer. Whether they are flying in United Polaris® or United Economy ®, United is elevating the onboard and in-app features that make travel more convenient and comfortable.

Starting July 1, United will be the first and only airline where fans can watch The Devil Wears Prada 2 as Miranda Priestly and Andrea Sachs set out to rescue Runway Magazine. Featuring real United employees who welcome Miranda aboard her United Economy experience, the film will be available exclusively on United’s industry-leading inflight entertainment one month before any other U.S.-based airline.

In addition to the film, United passengers can choose from more than 2,200 hours of world-class entertainment available on 800+ planes equipped with Bluetooth audio-enabled seatback screens – the most of any airline.

Also beginning July 1, United customers can kick off their summer travel with Owen’s Margarita Mix onboard. Made with 100% blue agave nectar and real juice, the premium mixer will be available on flights across United’s network – available for purchase in economy and complimentary in premium cabins – offering customers in every cabin a refreshing new way to sip into summer at 35,000 feet. And starting August 1, United will serve up a new era of inflight dining, debuting chef-curated meals on United Polaris international business class flights from world-renowned chefs brought together by Chef's Table, the brand behind the Emmy Award-winning Netflix series. The menus will be available for pre-order on United’s award-winning mobile app.

To help travelers navigate airports with ease this summer, the United mobile app is equipped with time-saving features – including real-time flight updates, TSA wait times** at U.S. hub airports, boarding updates, real-time boarding progress, bag tracking and personalized turn-by-turn directions to connecting gates. The app also delivers a personalized experience across every stage of the journey, providing customers with relevant information before departure, during their flight and upon arrival.

sexta-feira, 26 de junho de 2026

SPECIAL LIVERY - HAINAN AIRLINES / A330-900NEO / B-32MU / Serial #: 2096




Beijing Capital - ZBAA - China
Photo: Wangziming

FLEET - De Havilland Canada Delivers Twin Otter Classic 300-G Aircraft to Zimex Aviation


De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (“De Havilland Canada”) is pleased to announce the delivery of a Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft to Zimex Aviation, further strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two companies.
The aircraft, serial number 998, has joined Zimex Aviation’s global fleet, supporting passenger, cargo, humanitarian, and remote logistics operations worldwide.
The delivery also marks a significant milestone for De Havilland Canada, as the first production Twin Otter Classic 300-G enters service. It is also a milestone for Zimex Aviation, which becomes the first EASA operator of the Twin Otter Classic 300-G.
Zimex Aviation, headquartered in Switzerland, has operated Twin Otter aircraft for more than five decades and continues to rely on the aircraft’s versatility and reliability to support customers in some of the world’s most challenging operating environments.
“Delivering the first production Twin Otter Classic 300-G to Zimex Aviation is an important achievement for De Havilland Canada and another chapter in a long-standing partnership,” said Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, De Havilland Canada. “Zimex has built an exceptional reputation operating Twin Otters around the world, and their continued confidence in the aircraft speaks to its enduring value. We are proud to support their mission with the latest evolution of the Twin Otter, combining proven capability with modern enhancements that will serve their operations for years to come.”
“We can confidently say that Twin Otter aircraft have been the backbone of our business for the last 56 years,” said Daniele Cereghetti, Chief Executive Officer of Zimex Aviation Ltd. “We are delighted to welcome this aircraft into our fleet and look forward to deploying it across our global operations. The Twin Otter remains an essential aircraft for the demanding missions we perform every day.”
The Twin Otter Classic 300-G features the Garmin G1000 integrated flight deck, a redesigned cabin interior, and enhanced operational efficiency while maintaining the rugged STOL performance and versatility that have made the aircraft a trusted choice for operators worldwide.

FLEET - China Eastern Airlines orders 25 A330neo

China Eastern Airlines (MU, Shanghai Hongqiao) has placed a firm order for twenty-five A330neo directly from Airbus, the airline said in a Shanghai Stock Exchange filing on June 26.

"The aircraft will be used to supplement the company's future capacity, and replace and upgrade existing aircraft models, thereby optimising the company's fleet structure and route network, improving operational and service quality, and reducing unit operating costs," the airline said.

China Eastern Airlines highlighted that the new widebody aircraft will allow it to accelerate international expansion.

The aircraft will be delivered between 2029 and 2033, with the current timeline assuming four deliveries in 2029, five in 2030, six in 2031, seven in 2032, and three in 2033.

ch-aviation data shows China Eastern operates a fleet of 683 aircraft, which includes thirty A330-200s and twenty-six A330-300s. Currently, the only operator of A330neo in mainland China is Hainan Airlines with two A330-900Ns.
CH Aviation / Photo Flyingphotos AI
 

FLEET - Azul Conecta Adds Cessna Skycourier to its Fleet

Azul's regional subsidiary will receive two 19-seat turboprop aircraft 

The SkyCourier will be the first twin-engine aircraft in Azul Conecta's history. 
Developed by Textron Aviation, the Cessna 408 SkyCourier was designed to serve a segment above the Caravan.

The model offers greater passenger and cargo capacity, while maintaining characteristics that make it ideal for operations in short corridors and airports with limited infrastructure, common in the Amazon region.

AIRCRAFT - COMAC tests first C919-600 prototype at Shanghai Pudong

Photo: Flyingphotos / AI

COMAC (Shanghai Pudong) has taken another step in the development of the C919-600, a shortened variant of the C919-100STD. The first prototype, B-002U (msn 00032), conducted taxi tests at Shanghai Pudong in June 2026, ahead of a planned first flight in 2027. Six fuselage frames were removed from the standard variant to reduce weight, and the aircraft is expected to accommodate between 138 and 160 passengers.

Designed for operations at high-altitude airports, the new type is being developed jointly with Xizang Airlines (TV, Lhasa) for use on its Tibet network, currently dominated by A319-100Ns and B737-700s. The Chinese carrier has 40 units on order, first announced in 2023.
CH Aviation

Azerbaijan Airlines welcomes 1st A321neo


Azerbaijan Airlines took delivery of its first Airbus A321neo. The aircraft, A321-251NX VP-BCP (13192) was delivered to Baku from the manufacturer's factory at Hamburg-Finkenwerder.
It's the first of three the airline is leasing from AerCap, with the other two to be delivered later this year. Next to these leased aircraft, Azerbaijan Airlines also has open orders for six A321neos with Airbus directly. With Boeing, the airline holds open order for eight B787-9s.
Photo:Azerbaijan Airlines.
 

quinta-feira, 25 de junho de 2026

Royal Brunei Airlines expands deliveries of its four B787-9s on order from 2028, adding to its fleet of 12 aircraft.

Image: Flyingphotos IA




 

ROUTE - Xiamen Airlines (China) plans Xiamen – London Heathrow route on 06 September 2025, with B787-9.




 

FLEET - Delta Air Lines is accelerating the retirement of six B717, by four years to August 2026, due to the high engine maintenance costs and current fuel prices.

Dunan Stewart - LAX
 

Special Missions Cessna Skycourier To Appear At Farnborough International Airshow


Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, will return to the Farnborough International Airshow with a Cessna SkyCourier on static display, giving global customers and media an up‑close look at the aircraft’s expanding role in special missions, military and government operations.
Why It Matters
The Farnborough International Airshow provides an opportunity to highlight growing international interest in the Cessna SkyCourier as it enters new global defense markets.

“A fleet of five Cessna SkyCourier aircraft, similar to the one on display, was recently selected by Belgium to support its special operations forces,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense. “This first announced military purchase shows strong interest in the SkyCourier and proves it is ready for high‑stakes missions.”

More than 1,700 Cessna and Beechcraft turbine aircraft manufactured by Textron Aviation operate across Europe today, including more than 850 Cessna Citation business jets, 450 Beechcraft King Air turboprops and 175 Cessna Caravan turboprops.

About the Special Missions Cessna SkyCourier
The twin‑engine, high‑wing Cessna SkyCourier turboprop is designed for flexible missions, low operating costs and operations from rough or remote airfields. The aircraft offers flexible cabin layouts, strong payload and proven performance from rough or remote airfields.
Optional special mission capabilities include:
· Two underwing stations per side (up to 625 pounds inboard and 465 pounds outboard) for mission equipment, external fuel or cargo
· Extended‑fuel system adding 79 gallons of overwing fuel to increase endurance by approximately 50 minutes
· Powered patient‑loading system to support aeromedical and humanitarian missions
· In-flight Operable Door supporting airborne mission flexibility
· Equipment for static-line jumps, with anchor points, jump lights and a dedicated control panel

VINTAGE Aircraft - IRAN AIR / B747SP / EP-IAB / (MSN 20999)

Photo: Flyingphotos - LHR


Was delivered to Iran Air in May 1976

As of 2026, this iconic, 50-year-old aircraft is retired and stored fully intact at Tehran Mehrabad International Airport (THR)
Originally configured for 22 Business Class and 283 Economy Class passengers
The aircraft was originally named Kurdistan, but was later renamed Khorasan around 1992

SPECIAL COLOURS - Shenzhen Airlines receives its first A350-900.

Illustration :Flyingphotos AI

Amazing Shenzhen is the official global tourism and city brand for Shenzhen, China, highlighting its fusion of high-tech innovation, lush natural landscapes, and vibrant culture. It showcases a metropolis where futuristic experiences—like robot baristas and drone deliveries—live alongside tranquil beaches, sprawling parks, and bustling urban hubs



Shenzhen Airlines has received its first Airbus A350-900. The aircraft, sporting a special "Amazing Shenzhen" livery, B-32F0 (614)

The A350 is the first of five A350-900s that Air China will transfer to its subsidiary as part of an investment program in Shenzhen Airlines.

Shenzhen Airlines announced that it will begin commercial operations with its new A350 at the end of June 2026.

 

AIRPORT - Brussels - Zaventem - Belgium






Ton Jochems