segunda-feira, 29 de junho de 2026

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 
 

AIRPORT - Brussels - Zaventem - Belgium

CT-07 A400 Belgian Airforce 
30610 C130J Canadian Airforce 

Ton Jochems


 

FRONTIER AIRLINES / A321NEO / N653FR - Klondike The POLAR BEAR

Duncan Stewart
 

quarta-feira, 24 de junho de 2026

SPECIAL LIVERY - From runway to home run: WestJet unveils Toronto Blue Jays co-branded aircraft

Livery signifies seven-year partnership renewal as the official airline of Canada’s team

WestJet today celebrated the renewal of its long-standing partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays by taking it to new heights – 35,000 feet to be exact. The airline unveiled a specially designed co-branded Toronto Blue Jays Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, connecting fans in communities across Canada and reinforcing WestJet’s position as a leading national airline.

“Our renewed partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays represents a shared commitment to bringing Canadians closer together through meaningful, memorable moments,” said Samantha Taylor, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer.

“Together, we are creating opportunities to connect fans to the game they love while celebrating the spirit of community that unites us across the country. Our co-branded aircraft is a bold and visible symbol of that connection, proudly showcasing our partnership from coast-to-coast-to-coast and reinforcing our shared dedication to delivering exceptional experiences for Canadians.”

The co-branded livery on WestJet tail #386 was revealed during a special celebration at the WestJet YYZ hangar. Nearly 1,000 WestJetters, Toronto Blue Jays representatives, and community members gathered to commemorate the long-standing partnership and get an insider look at the aircraft livery. Among the celebrations were Toronto Blue Jays alumni Edwin Encarnación and Pat Borders, and even an appearance from ACE, the Toronto Blue Jays’ beloved mascot.

The livery connects the dynamic energy that defines both WestJet and the Toronto Blue Jays. The iconic colours paired with the sweeping design depict the action of an aircraft at takeoff and the arc of a ball soaring off the bat. Guests should keep their eyes to the skies as the aircraft is scheduled to take its first flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport on June 24.

“This partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays is rooted in uniting Canadians through shared experiences, a deep love of the game and building connections that go beyond the field,” said Steve McClelland, Vice President, Loyalty and Strategic Partnerships, WestJet.

Originally established in 2012, the renewed agreement coincides with a milestone year for both organizations, as the Toronto Blue Jays celebrate their 50th season and WestJet marks 30 years of connecting Canadians. The new livery and WestJet’s newest player ambassador, Ernie Clement, are just a few of the moments that celebrate the iconic partnership.

“Our partnership with WestJet has been instrumental in bringing Blue Jays baseball to fans across Canada,” said Mark Ditmars, Vice President, Partnerships, Toronto Blue Jays. “As we celebrate our 50th season, this renewed commitment – and the unveiling of this co-branded aircraft – reflects our share values of teamwork and building community.”

WestJet continues its commitment to building meaningful, long-term relationships that resonate with Canadians – fostering community connection and celebrating the moments that bring people together.

WestJet 


FLEET - COMAC and Deer Jet Launch CBJ Operations


    2026 marks the tenth anniversary of C909 commercial operations. Image: Deer Jet

COMAC and Deer Jet announced today the official commercial entry into service of the world's first COMAC Business Jet (CBJ), with a maiden charter flight operating from Shanghai Hongqiao to Beijing Capital Airport on June 22.

COMAC offers a range of customizable cabin configurations to suit different operator needs. Image: Deer Jet


 A ceremony marking the occasion was held at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. Attendees included COMAC General Manager Shen Bo and COMAC Chief Accountant Yu Shihai; Liaoning Fangda Group Senior Vice President and HNA Aviation Group Chairman Ding Yongzheng; and Deer Jet Business Jet Group President and Shanghai Deer Jet Chairman Zhou Wei. Representatives from the Changning District Government, Civil Aviation Shanghai Regulatory Bureau, Shanghai Hongqiao Customs, Shanghai Hongqiao Border Inspection, Shanghai Airport Authority, and Shanghai East Hongqiao Investment Development Group were also present. Image: COMAC

The CBJ is a derivative of COMAC's C909 regional jet, originally designated the ARJ21‑700.
The ARJ21‑700 airframe received type certification in 2014. The CBJ configuration received its Validation Type Certificate in March 2021.

Seating capacity ranges from 12 to 29 passengers, with typical configurations accommodating 12 to 19 seats.

The aircraft offers a typical flight endurance of five hours, with optional supplementary fuel tanks available.

Designed for high-altitude performance, the CBJ is validated to operate at airfields up to 4,411 m (14,470 ft), including Daocheng Yading Airport—the world’s highest civilian airport, and is optimized for plateau and high-temperature operations.
COMAC offers a range of customizable cabin configurations to suit different operator needs.

Plan A seats 15 passengers with 11 luxury seats, two couches, two business-class seats, a VIP suite, two lavatories, and two crew seats.

Plan B accommodates 13 passengers with six couches, five luxury seats, two business-class seats, a VIP suite, two lavatories, and one crew seat.

Plan C maximizes lounge space for 17 passengers with 12 couches, three luxury seats, two business-class seats, a VIP suite, two lavatories, and one crew seat.

Plan D seats 18, balancing nine luxury seats, three couches, six business-class seats, nine flat-available seats, a VIP suite, two lavatories, and one crew seat.

The largest layout, Plan E, supports 29 passengers with 22 business-class seats, four luxury seats, three couches, two flat-available seats, a VIP suite, two lavatories, and two crew seats.
Across all configurations, the CBJ features a full VIP suite with a 1.5-m (4.9 ft) double bed and private lavatory, a reception area with lie-flat first-class seats, and a meeting/dining area with an eight-seat table and satellite phone.

The rear cabin includes a bar, coffee station, oven, and steward seat, while sound insulation keeps noise levels as low as 55 dB in the VIP suite and below 65 dB elsewhere.

Optional phased-array broadband satcom provides high-speed internet and cockpit-cabin connectivity, and foldable boarding ladders enhance operational flexibility at airports without jet bridges.
CHINAEVTOLNEWS