terça-feira, 28 de julho de 2026
FLEET - AirBlue to add 3 A320neo
AirBlue's current fleet comprises five A320-200s, five A321-200s, and two A321-200NX.
FLEET - ValueJet secures first B737-800
ValueJet, which until now operated a fleet composed exclusively of Bombardier CRJ aircraft, is adding Boeing 737s to increase its passenger and cargo capacity and expand its African network, with new routes planned for Abidjan, Libreville and Douala, followed by Kenya and South Africa.
Image: Valujet
De Havilland Canada Announces LOI for First Twin Otter Classic 300-G Aircraft in the Maldives
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (“De Havilland Canada”) signed a letter of intent with Island Aviation Services Limited (Maldivian), the national airline of the Maldives, for the purchase of two DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft. The order will mark the first Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft to be delivered to the Maldives, the world’s largest Twin Otter operating market.
The Maldives has relied on the Twin Otter for decades as the backbone of inter-island transportation. The introduction of the Twin Otter Classic 300-G represents the next chapter in that legacy, bringing the latest evolution of the iconic aircraft to an operator serving one of the world’s most demanding island aviation networks.
“The Maldives has long been known as the home of the Twin Otter,” said Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President of Sales for De Havilland Canada. “As the largest Twin Otter market in the world, there is no better place to introduce the next generation of this legendary aircraft. We are proud that Island Aviation Services Limited will become the first operator in the country to bring the Twin Otter Classic 300-G into service, reinforcing a partnership that has connected the islands and their communities for generations.”
The Twin Otter Classic 300-G builds on the aircraft’s unmatched reputation for reliability, and operational flexibility while incorporating modern avionics, enhanced passenger comfort, and improved maintainability to meet the evolving needs of today’s operators.
Island Aviation Services Limited provides essential connectivity throughout the Maldivian archipelago, linking Malé with communities, resorts, and remote islands across the country. The addition of two Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft will further strengthen the airline’s ability to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient service while supporting the continued growth of tourism and regional transportation.
“We are proud that we will be the first airline in the Maldives to introduce the Twin Otter Classic 300-G,” said Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director, Island Aviation Services Limited. “The Twin Otter has been an integral part of aviation in the Maldives for decades, and this newest generation aircraft will allow us to continue providing the dependable service our passengers expect while benefiting from the aircraft’s latest technological and operational enhancements.”
The Twin Otter Classic 300-G retains the core strengths operators depend on: exceptional short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance and the ability to operate in some of the world’s most challenging environments, while incorporating modern enhancements that support reduced operating costs and increased mission flexibility. With significant weight reduction, the 300-G creates additional capacity for passengers and cargo, further strengthening its operating economics.
With more than 1,000 aircraft produced and millions of flight hours accumulated worldwide, the Twin Otter continues to be the world’s premier utility aircraft, operating in environments ranging from Arctic communities and mountain regions to tropical island destinations. Nowhere has its impact been greater than in the Maldives, where the aircraft has become the standard for safe, dependable inter-island transportation.
FLEET - Southwest Airlines ended the 2Q 2026 with a fleet of 803 aircraft after receiving 13 B737-8s and retiring 10 NG models.
2026 ROUTES
ZIPAIR Tokyo plans Tokyo Narita – Kuala Lumpur route on 20 October 2026, with B787-8.
United Airlines (US) has removed schedule listing for Chicago O’Hare – Guadalajara route in June 2027 with B737-800.
Sunrise Airways has launched a new nonstop route between Antigua and Barbados on 22 July 2026.
Loong air launch new flight between Taichung to Chengdu tianfu
Jin Air plans to launch Seoul Incheon – Yantai route on 18 August 2026, with B737-8.
Jeju Air schedules Daegu – Shijiazhuang charter service on 23 September 2026, with B737-800.
China Southern schedules Shenzhen – Surabaya route on 15 September 2026, with A321neo.
China southern airlines new flight between Addis Ababa to Guangzhou
Aurora (Russia) plans to launch Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk – Harbin route from 28 October 2026, with A319.
Emirates back on board with SailGP at the Britain Sail Grand Prix Portsmouth
domingo, 26 de julho de 2026
FLEET - Samoa Airways completes second Twin Otter overhaul
Samoa Airways (OL, Apia Faleolo) has taken back DHC-6-300 5W-FAY (msn 690) following a complete overhaul and refurbishment by Unity Aviation, the airline said in a Samoan government press release published on July 21, 2026.
According to ADS-B data, 5W-FAY was ferried from Calgary to Apia Faleolo between July 1 and 7, 2026, stopping at several airports, including Boise, Santa Maria, CA, Kiritimati, and Hilo. Samoa Airways inaugurated the aircraft on July 17 and returned it to service four days later.
The overhauls of 5W-FAY, and 5W-FAW (msn 827), cost approximately WST22 million tala (USD8 million), according to the release, and were funded entirely from Samoa Airways' revenues without borrowing.
Built in 1980 and acquired by Samoa Airways in 1998, 5W-FAY is the second of the airline's Twin Otters to complete the programme. The younger 5W-FAW returned from Canada in March 2025. Samoa Airways also operates the older 5W-STF (msn 402), bringing its overall fleet to three aircraft.
The airline's published schedule lists services between Apia Fagali'i and Pago Pago, as well as from Pago Pago to Fitiuta and Ofu in American Samoa.
CH Aviation
sábado, 25 de julho de 2026
ROUTES - A New Icon Takes Flight: STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA Debuts in North American Phoenix Sky Harbor receives the Sorayama-designed A350-1000 “flying masterpiece” on its first long-haul flight, ahead of scheduled service from October 1
The arrival was commemorated with a gate ceremony at Phoenix Sky Harbor, where STARLUX officials, Phoenix city leadership, and media gathered to witness the aircraft's first on-ground appearance in the U.S.
“Today’s flight is the realization of a vision to bring art into the skies, and we couldn't be prouder that Phoenix is where that vision lands in North America for the first time,” said Simon Liu, Chief Strategy Officer of STARLUX Airlines. “Through our collaboration with Sorayama-sensei, we have transformed this remarkable machine into something that asks passengers to feel something before they even board — a journey where the aircraft itself is the experience.”
The AIRSORAYAMA CONCEPT
The STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA project comprises two Airbus A350-1000 aircraft — AIRSORAYAMA GOLD and AIRSORAYAMA SILVER — each featuring the signature aesthetic of Sorayama’s artworks, with fluid contours and reflective metallic textures. The artistic vision extends beyond the exterior: passengers experience a fully immersive journey through specially curated cabin amenities, exclusive merchandise collections, and custom-designed inflight content. Each aircraft is configured with four First Class suites, 40 Business Class seats, 36 Premium Economy seats, and 270 Economy Class seats.
A Milestone for Phoenix
As one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States and an emerging gateway for commerce and travel across Asia, Phoenix was a natural first choice for STARLUX’s North American debut. “STARLUX Airlines continues to show that the future of aviation is landing in Phoenix,” Mayor Kate Gallego said. “With the launch of the stunning AIRSORAYAMA aircraft in the United States, STARLUX Airlines is building on its six months of successful service in Phoenix.”
Inaugural Celebration at Phoenix Sky Harbor
To commemorate the AIRSORAYAMA aircraft’s North American debut, STARLUX held an inaugural ceremony at Phoenix Sky Harbor following the aircraft’s arrival. The event featured a commemorative aircraft model presentation to Mayor Gallego, guided cabin tours, and tarmac access for media photography.
Speakers at the ceremony included Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Aviation Director Chad Makovsky, American Airlines Head of Partnerships Jeff Ogar, Alaska Airlines Managing Director of Partnerships & International Alex Judson, and STARLUX Chief Strategy Officer Simon Liu. Remarks underscored the significance of the route in deepening cultural, economic, and aviation ties between Phoenix and Asia and highlighted STARLUX's commitment to redefining the travel experience through innovation and design.
Looking Ahead
Starting October 1, STARLUX Airlines will launch scheduled AIRSORAYAMA services to Phoenix, Tokyo, and Prague, further strengthening its global network and intercontinental connectivity.
Starlux
FLEET / ORDER - Aerolíneas Argentinas orders 20 aircraft.
FLEET - Air Seychelles confirms dry lease of two A321-200NY(XLR)s
Air Seychelles (HM, Mahé) has confirmed it will dry lease two A321-200NY(XLR)s from SMBC Aviation Capital, with deliveries scheduled in 2028, as initially revealed in a recent interview with ch-aviation. The aircraft will come from the lessor's Airbus order book. The carrier plans to use the type to reach established tourist source markets and develop new destinations. Air Seychelles currently operates two A320-200Ns on regional routes from Mahé, alongside five DHC-6-400s on domestic services. It also wet leases one A330-300 from Hi Fly Malta.
Full Story : SMBC Aviation Capital
FLEET - SCAT to add converted B767-300 freighter
SCAT Airlines has signed an agreement with Boeing to add its first dedicated freighter, a B767-300ER(BCF). The parties did not disclose a timeline for the induction, or whether the aircraft would come from the pool of already-converted units or have to first undergo conversion. SCAT is a nearly all-Boeing operator with a fleet of one B737-300, three B737-500s, one B737-700, nine B737-8s, eight B737-800s, five B737-9s, three B757-200s, and one B767-300ER. It also operates four CRJ200s, and is reportedly mulling new orders for B787s and B777s.
FLEET - Turkish Airlines to add 7 leased A321-200NX
Turkish Airlines (TK, Istanbul Airport) will expand its fleet by leasing seven new A321-200NX from CALC, the airline announced at the Farnborough Air Show on July 20, 2026. This marks the first collaboration between the airline and the Hong Kong-based leasing firm. According to ch-aviation fleets data, Turkish Airlines currently operates seventy-four A321-200NX (thirty-four of them leased) and one leased A321-200N.
CH Aviation / Flyingphotos
sexta-feira, 24 de julho de 2026
HYBRID LIVERY - Air Zimbabwe (Plus Ultra) / Airbus A330-302 / EC-ONX - This was the first Air Zimbabwe scheduled arrival since the service was suspended in 2012.
Photo: n94504 / jetphotos.
This Harare-London route is being resumed after a 14-year absence.
The company confirmed the schedule with three weekly flights, departing Harare on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with return flights from Gatwick South Terminal on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Its last direct service to London, in 2012, was operated by Boeing 767 aircraft, which the airline no longer operates.
According to the contract, Plus Ultra provides the aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance, while the flights operate under Air Zimbabwe's own flight code, and the airline retains control of ticket sales and customer relations.
ORDER - Vietnam Airlines to dry lease 19 B737-8s
Vietnam Airlines (VN, Hanoi Noi Bai International) plans to dry lease nineteen B737-8s from three lessors for delivery in 2028, the carrier said in a press release. The airline will source ten units from SMBC Aviation Capital, four from Avolon, and five from Phoenix Aviation Capital.
The additional aircraft will expand Vietnam Airlines' planned B737-8 fleet to 69 units, comprising 50 firm orders and the 19 dry-leased jets. The carrier did not disclose the lease terms.
The agreements follow an initial request for quotations issued in November 2025 for the operating lease of 20 narrowbody aircraft seating fewer than 200 passengers, with options for up to ten more.
In February 2026, Vietnam Airlines finalised its order for fifty B737-8s, converting a non-binding agreement reached with Boeing in 2023. Deliveries under the direct order are scheduled between 2030 and 2032, after the leased aircraft arrive.
Vietnam Airlines operates an in-house fleet of 94 aircraft, comprising one A320-200, three A320-200Ns, thirty-nine A321-200s, twenty A321-200Ns, fourteen A350-900s, six B787-10s, and eleven B787-9s.
FLEET - Azul to add four more A321 freighters
Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras (AD, São Paulo Viracopos) will add four more A321-200(P2F)s to its dedicated cargo fleet operating under the name Azul Logística.
SPECIAL LIVERY - Saudia Joins Esports World Cup 2026 as Official Airline, Unveils Fully Branded EWC Aircraft
Expanding its partnership with the EWC as it supports the tournament’s first international edition in Paris
Saudia Joins Esports World Cup 2026 as Official Airline
Saudia, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Esports Foundation (EF) today announced an expanded partnership naming the airline the Official Airline of the Esports World Cup 2026 (EWC).
Through this collaboration, Saudia will support the EWC’s first international edition in Paris, France, through a series of initiatives highlighted by the unveiling of the world's first commercial aircraft dedicated to an esports event. Revealed during an official ceremony at Saudia Technic in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, attended by government representatives, partners, media and creators, the specially branded aircraft will operate daily flights between Riyadh and Paris throughout the tournament and across Saudia’s international network for the next two years, serving as a long-term flying symbol of the partnership between Saudia and the Esports World Cup.
As the Official Airline of EWC 2026, Saudia is supporting the tournament through dedicated travel initiatives connecting players, fans, creators, clubs and event staff between Riyadh and Paris. Guests can enjoy EWC content, including the documentary Esports World Cup: Level Up, through BEYOND, Saudia’s inflight entertainment system, while selected live tournament broadcasts will be available in Saudia lounges throughout the event.
Saudia has already flown thousands of staff, selected Superfans, content creators and players to Paris for the event, with many more expected to travel over the coming weeks. Through the EWC Superfan program, the airline is enabling selected fans to experience the tournament in person while bringing MENA-based content creators to produce on-site coverage for audiences across the region.
The exclusive partnership extends beyond travel with Saudia’s community Fortnite tournament, building on the success of the 2025 edition, which engaged hundreds of thousands of fans on a custom map. The 2026 tournament introduces a new map featuring a branded airport and Saudia aircraft inspired by the real-life EWC livery. Winners will receive tickets to EWC 2026 Paris, giving them the opportunity to experience the tournament and join the global esports community in person.
"The Esports World Cup has always been about bringing people together through a shared passion for gaming. Our expanded partnership with Saudia allows us to extend that experience beyond the competition, connecting communities from Saudi Arabia to Paris and celebrating esports throughout the journey. From the world's first commercial aircraft dedicated to an esports event to onboard programming and fan experiences, our partnership reflects the global reach and cultural impact esports has today."
— FRANCOIS DESIR, DIRECTOR SPONSORSHIP AND ADVERTISING
"The Esports World Cup reflects Saudi Arabia's growing role in bringing people together through world-class experiences that resonate with audiences around the globe. As the Kingdom's national flag carrier, our role extends beyond travel to connecting people with experiences that create lasting memories and strengthen cultural exchange. This partnership allows us to engage a new generation while showcasing the energy, creativity and ambition that define Saudi Arabia today."— MR. IBRAHIM BINAQUIL, MARKETING HEAD AT SAUDIA GROUP
The renewed partnership follows the success of last year’s Esports World Cup, which welcomed more than 3 million visitors to Riyadh. The collaboration builds on the relationship established in 2025, when Saudia and EWC signed their partnership agreement through an interactive digital platform that reflected the technology-led spirit of both organizations.
The Esports World Cup 2026 will be hosted in Paris, France, through August 23, welcoming more than 2,000 players and 200 clubs from over 100 countries to compete across 24 games and 25 tournaments for a share of a record-breaking $75 million+ prize pool.
Farnborough International Airshow 2026 - Philippine Airlines Orders Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 Engines for Additional A350-1000s
An agreement for Rolls-Royce's TotalCare service, which will cover the health and maintenance program of the fleet, has also been signed.
The agreements support PAL's fleet modernization program and its ongoing efforts to operate a modern, fuel-efficient and reliable long-haul fleet.
“Our TotalCare agreement complements this investment by providing comprehensive maintenance support that helps maximize fleet availability while giving us greater confidence in long-term maintenance planning and cost predictability,” he added.
“We are proud to continue strengthening our long-standing relationship with Philippine Airlines. The Trent XWB-97 is an exceptional engine, renowned for its proven reliability and efficiency, making it our best-selling engine over the past 18 months. Combined with the comprehensive operational support provided by TotalCare, this order will enable Philippine Airlines to maximize their operational performance as they continue expanding their A350-1000 fleet,” said Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace, Rolls-Royce.
2026 - ROUTES - FlyArystan / Fly Cham / DRC's flyCAA / Croatia Airlines / Cathay Pacific / AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines / Air China / Air Algerie / Thai / Philippine Airlines
Fly Cham (Syria) schedules Damascus – Dammam flights on 19 July 2026, with A320.
DRC's flyCAA Opens Luanda as First Scheduled International Passenger DestinationCompagnie Africaine d'Aviation (flyCAA), a Democratic Republic of Congo-based carrier, will launch scheduled flights between Kinshasa and Luanda on July 31, 2026,
Croatia Airlines will suspend its year-round service between Rijeka and Munich on 23 October 2026.
Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong) now plans to resume service from Hong Kong to Dubai and Riyadh on 01 September 2026, both with A350-900.
AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines plans Baku – Kars route on 30 July 2026, with E190
Air China will begin C919 flights between Beijing and Ulaanbaatar on 12 August 2026, the carrier’s first International flight with the aircraft.
Air Algerie launched scheduled service with the B737-8 on 13 July 2026, on the Algiers – Tunis route and the Algiers – London Heathrow route.
Thai Airways International plans to resume Bangkok Suvarnabhumi – Da Nang flights from 01 December 2026, with A320.
Philippine Airlines removed schedule filing for Manila – Guangzhou route, during the winter 2026/27 season. It was set to begin on 25 October 2026.
*You should confirm this information with your company.
Farnborough International Airshow 2026 - COMAC
COMAC has continually enriched its aircraft product family and promoted the series development. The 90-seat C909 regional jet has a good adaptability to operating environments such as high temperature, plateau, and short and narrow runways. It has been delivered to more than ten customers and is mainly put into commercial operation in China and Southeast Asia. The 190-seat C919 single-aisle trunk liner has been delivered to China Eastern Airlines, Air China and China Southern Airlines, and has been put into commercial operation. The design work for the 290-seat C929 wide body aircraft is steadily advancing. On this basis, COMAC has also launched C909 medical rescue aircraft, firefighting aircraft, cargo aircraft, business jet and emergency rescue command aircraft. (Photographers: Wang Jiliang and Wang Yilin)
quinta-feira, 23 de julho de 2026
quarta-feira, 22 de julho de 2026
ORDER - Alaska Airlines, Inc. selects 737-800s to strengthen Hawaiian Airlines’ Neighbor Island service, enhancing the guest experience and increasing capacity
Alaska Airlines, Inc. today announced the future fleet plan for Hawaiian Airlines’ Neighbor Island flying – a modern fleet of Hawaiian-branded Boeing 737-800 aircraft that will replace Hawaiian’s retiring Boeing 717 fleet, delivering a significantly improved guest experience and greater reliability for Hawai‘i and the Hawai‘i traveler.
The 737-800 aircraft will feature a modern premium onboard experience that includes:
- Twice as many First Class seats and the addition of more than 30 Premium Class seats, creating more upgrade opportunities for Huaka‘i by Hawaiian and Atmos™ Rewards members
- Fast, free Starlink Wi-Fi on all flights
- More room in cargo for surfboards
- Reclining leather Recaro seats throughout the aircraft
- 110V power outlets, USB charging and seatback device holders at every seat
Neighbor Island flying is uniquely demanding, with short segments, frequent daily cycles and operations in a salt-air environment.
To sustain frequency and capacity and meet the needs of Hawai‘i’s communities in the near-term, prior to the transition, Alaska will supplement 717 Neighbor Island flying with 737 capacity.
The fleet decision is a key step in Alaska Accelerate, Alaska Air Group’s strategic plan to deliver long-term growth by strengthening the company’s dual-brand strategy, expanding the reach of Hawaiian and investing in the markets that matter most to guests.
Since combining Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, the company has continued to invest in Hawai‘i, strengthening connectivity through a broader network, launching a new, more valuable loyalty program, improving technology, planning a new Honolulu lounge and airport improvements across Hawai‘i, and elevating the guest experience while deepening its commitment to local communities. The future Neighbor Island fleet builds on that journey, serving Hawai‘i better together while honoring and sustaining two strong and beloved brands.