quarta-feira, 27 de maio de 2026
FLEET - PNG Air to lease three ATR42-600s from local landowners Support Contact Newsroom Print Page
Three Papua New Guinean landowner companies have each acquired a new ATR42-600 and will lease them to PNG Air (CG, Port Moresby), according to a government press release. The aircraft will be contracted to holding company Ok Tedi Mining and will replace the airline's ageing DHC-8-100 fleet.
The turboprops are being acquired through three Ok Tedi Mining shareholder companies: Mineral Resources Star Mountain, Mineral Resources Ok Tedi, and Mineral Resources CMCA. Ok Tedi Mining currently contracts fly-in/fly-out charters using three DHC-8-100s and a DHC-6-400 operated by Pacific Direct and Hevilift (PNG), respectively.
Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) managing director Augustine Mano said PNG Air will manage the aircraft under a long-term lease. The press release noted that the first ATR42-600 departed ATR - Avions de Transport Régional's Toulouse facility on May 20.
ADS-B data shows that P2-ATT (msn 1804) was ferried from Toulouse Francazal to Port Moresby, via multiple stops in Europe and Asia, between May 20 and May 26, 2026. It carries a standard PNG Air livery. In a social media statement, the airline confirmed that the aircraft is owned by "Ok Tedi Mining Ltd (OTML) landowners [and] will be managed and flown by PNG Air across our network."
Mano said the new aircraft will replace the airline's Dash 8s, which have an average age of 40 years, per ch-aviation data. He added that other landowner companies are expected to acquire three additional aircraft in the future.
"This is history because, for the first time, landowners are buying aircraft directly from the factory and leasing them to a major airline company under a long-term arrangement," Mano said.
It is unclear whether this MRDC transaction overlaps with PNG Air's previously announced ATR orderbook. The airline took delivery of the first of three ATR42-600s on its direct order, P2-ATU (msn 1216), on May 10, 2026.
ch-aviation has reached out to PNG Air for additional details.
PNG Air's fleet consists of 16 aircraft: one ATR42-600, nine ATR72-600s, one inactive ATR72-600C, four DHC-8-100s (one of which is inactive), and one inactive DHC-8-100(PF). The airline plans to expand its total ATR fleet to approximately 18 aircraft.
CH-Aviation
ROUTES - TAAG schedules resumption of China flights
The flights are not yet reflected in the airline's online booking engine, ch-aviation research shows, but a spokesperson for TAAG confirmed the route was in the "pipeline" and pending an official announcement.
In January, AeroRoutes reported that TAAG planned to launch 3x weekly flights to Guangzhou with B787-9s on March 30, but the airline could not confirm this at the time to ch-aviation.
TAAG operated scheduled passenger flights to Beijing Capital before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Angolan state-owned flag carrier is looking to China to unlock its intra-African routes in terms of feeder traffic. It will be the only Southern African airline flying directly to China, banking on offering brand-new infrastructure at its hub at Luanda's new Dr António Agostinho Neto airport, new B787 equipment, and shorter flight times compared to connections via elsewhere in Africa or the United Arab Emirates.
2026 ROUTES
Transavia (Netherlands) plans flights from Amsterdam to Ilha do Sal via Faro, effective 27 October 2026, with A321neo.
Ton Jochems - AMS
Sunrise Airways (Haiti) will launch a new direct route between Cap-Haïtien and Newark on 01 June 2026, with A320.
SunExpress (Turkiye) schedules Izmir – Almaty inaugural on 31 July 2026, with B737-800.
Iraqi Airways announced the launch of a direct flight route between Erbil and Baku on 28 May 2026.
avianca (Colombia) will begin operating direct flights between Bogotá and Maracaibo starting 28 August 2026.
AJet (Turkiye) plans to launch Ankara – St. Petersburg service on 01 July 2026, with B737-800
AJet (Turkiye) drops four planned summer 2026 routes from Bodrum to Basel/Mulhouse, Bucharest, Copenhagen and Dubai, as well as Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen to Tuzla.
AJet (Turkiye) plans Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen – Alexandria on 29 June 2026, with B737-8.
Qatar Airways plans Doha – Port Sudan flights on 02 July 2026, with A320.
Jazeera Airways (Kuwait) announced the launch of direct flights between Kuwait and London Luton on 08 July 2026, with A320.
AJet (Turkiye) plans Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen – Alexandria on 29 June 2026, with B737-8.
Alain Charpentier - BCN
Uganda Airlines has suspended service on Entebbe – Kinshasa route from 23 May 2026, with its CRJ900.
Qatar Airways plans Doha – Port Sudan flights on 02 July 2026, with A320.
Jazeera Airways (Kuwait) announced the launch of direct flights between Kuwait and London Luton on 08 July 2026, with A320.
Cathay Group orders two more Airbus A350F freighters
“We are pleased to further strengthen our fleet with these additional A350F freighters that will provide greater connectivity at our home hub and more choices for our customers. This strategic, future-ready investment reflects our resolute confidence in our long-term growth prospects and supports Cathay Cargo’s goal of being the world’s best air cargo carrier,” said Ronald Lam, Chief Executive of the Cathay Group.
“Cathay’s continued endorsement of the A350F is another powerful signal that the A350F brings a new generation of freighter capacity and efficiency. The A350F will fit seamlessly into the airline’s existing Airbus fleet with unrivalled operational and technical commonality, while accelerating the airline’s decarbonisation journey. We could not be more excited to grow this partnership,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
Designed to be the world's most advanced cargo aircraft, the A350F meets the evolving demands of the global air freight market. Thanks to a range capability of up to 8,700 kilometres with a payload of up to 111 tonnes, it will allow operators to deploy it on international long-haul routes. Made from over 70% advanced materials, the A350F is 46 tonnes lighter than competitor aircraft.
Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 20% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. It is the only new freighter fully meeting ICAO's 2027 CO₂ emission standards. The A350F is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to-service, with the aim for up to 100% capability by 2030, as with all Airbus aircraft.
As part of the world’s most modern widebody aircraft family, the A350F also offers a high level of commonality with A350 passenger aircraft, bringing added benefits to carriers already flying models from the family.
At the end of April 2026, the A350F freighter had registered 101 firm orders from 14 customers worldwide.
terça-feira, 26 de maio de 2026
SPECIAL COLOURS - Qatar Airways Unveils FIFA Special Livery and Bespoke Onboard Experience
The uniquely branded Boeing 777 will operate across key destinations in Europe, the United States, and Asia, bringing the spirit of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ to passengers worldwide
Building on the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the new livery reflects the next chapter in Qatar Airways’ journey with FIFA as the Official Airline Partner of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The special livery aircraft will operate across key destinations in Europe, the United States and Asia, engaging fans around the world as excitement continues to build ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Inspired by the energy, passion, and global unity of football’s biggest tournament, the distinctive new livery captures the vibrant spirit of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ through its bold and dynamic design that will travel throughout the airline’s global network.
As the Official Airline Partner of FIFA, Qatar Airways continues to play a leading role in global sport, connecting fans, teams, and destinations through its growing international network and award-winning travel experience.
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, bringing together the world’s best national teams in the largest edition of the tournament to date.
NEW LIVERY - Hong Kong Airlines introduces new livery
Hong Kong Airlines celebrates its 20th anniversary and unveils new livery.
It was revealed on May 22, 2026, and distances the airline from the Hainan Airlines livery.
Hong Kong Airlines has a fleet of 33 aircraft, consisting of seventeen Airbus A320s, three A321s, seven A330-200s, and six A330-300s.
Image: Hong Kong Airlines.
ORDER - Air China Cargo increases A350F freighter order to 10 aircraft
Air China Cargo Co., Ltd. (hereafter referred to as "Air China Cargo") has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for four additional A350F freighters, taking its total order for the type to 10 aircraft. Air China Cargo previously ordered six A350F freighters in November 2025.
"We are very pleased with Air China Cargo's decision to increase its order for the A350F freighter. It reflects Air China Cargo's full confidence in Airbus’ products and reaffirms the A350F's leading position as the next-generation freighter,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
Air China Cargo began introducing Airbus freighters at the end of 2023, and currently operates a fleet of eight Airbus A330-200P2F aircraft. In the near future, the A350F freighter will join Air China Cargo’s fleet and will complement the A330-200P2F freighters, maximising their advantages on long-haul and medium-to-long-haul routes.
Designed to be the world's most advanced cargo aircraft, the A350F meets the evolving demands of the global air freight market. Thanks to a range capability of up to 8,700 kilometres with a payload of up to 111 tonnes, it will allow operators to deploy it on international long-haul routes. Made from over 70% advanced materials, the A350F is 46 tonnes lighter than competitor aircraft.
Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 20% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. It is the only freighter fully meeting ICAO's 2027 CO₂ emission standards. The A350F is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to-service, with the aim for up to 100% capability by 2030, as with all Airbus aircraft.
At the end of April 2026, the A350F had registered 101 orders from 14 customers.
AIRBUS
Air China Cargo began introducing Airbus freighters at the end of 2023, and currently operates a fleet of eight Airbus A330-200P2F aircraft. In the near future, the A350F freighter will join Air China Cargo’s fleet and will complement the A330-200P2F freighters, maximising their advantages on long-haul and medium-to-long-haul routes.
Designed to be the world's most advanced cargo aircraft, the A350F meets the evolving demands of the global air freight market. Thanks to a range capability of up to 8,700 kilometres with a payload of up to 111 tonnes, it will allow operators to deploy it on international long-haul routes. Made from over 70% advanced materials, the A350F is 46 tonnes lighter than competitor aircraft.
Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 20% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. It is the only freighter fully meeting ICAO's 2027 CO₂ emission standards. The A350F is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to-service, with the aim for up to 100% capability by 2030, as with all Airbus aircraft.
At the end of April 2026, the A350F had registered 101 orders from 14 customers.
AIRBUS
FLEET - Avianca to add two Airbus A330-900 to its fleet, strengthening connectivity across Colombia and the Americas
Imagem IAThe widebody aircraft will operate on strategic routes, expanding Colombia’s connectivity and supporting the continued strengthening of the Abra Group in the region.
Avianca consolidates its position as the only operator of this model in Colombia, contributing to the growth of tourism and the country’s competitiveness.
These units are part of the Abra Group’s announcement to incorporate seven Airbus A330-900 aircraft.
Avianca will incorporate two Airbus A330-900 to its fleet, which will join the more than 15 widebody aircraft currently operating the airline’s long-haul routes.
These aircraft will have Colombia as their base of operations, representing greater investment in the country and reflecting the airline’s commitment to strengthening connectivity and tourism, while also supporting the Abra Group’s growing presence in medium- and long-haul operations.
The aircraft are expected to enter service in the second half of 2026 to operate routes in the Americas. These aircraft have a capacity of 377 seats, including the Business Class Americas experience, designed to offer enhanced comfort and onboard service.
"The incorporation of these Airbus A330-900 aircraft marks a key milestone in our long-haul growth roadmap. With these aircraft, we continue strengthening our investment and commitment to Colombia, while expanding connectivity between the Americas and the world, and reinforcing the Abra Group’s network and operational capabilities", said Gabriel Oliva, President of Avianca Group.
Avianca
FLEET - Volaris adds two new aircraft to its fleet and continues to advance its modernization strategy with NEO aircraft
- The airline added an Airbus A320NEO and an Airbus A321NEO to its fleet, both next-generation models that offer greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
- Currently, 66% of Volaris’ fleet consists of NEO aircraft, which are recognized for their operational efficiency and lower environmental impact.
Volaris is adding aircraft numbers 156 and 157 to its fleet as part of its modernization and operational renewal strategy, which is focused on maintaining one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in the region.
The new aircraft are an Airbus A320NEO, registration XA-TVH, with a capacity of 186 passengers, and an Airbus A321NEO, registration XA-VUZ, with a capacity of 239 passengers. Both come from the Airbus assembly plant in Mobile, Alabama, United States.
The A320NEO has already begun its first flights from Mexico City International Airport (AICM), while the A321NEO is scheduled to enter service in mid-June. Both aircraft will be used to bolster operations on new routes set to launch in June 2026, connecting cities such as Guadalajara, Puebla, Querétaro, Los Angeles, Newark, and Houston, among others.
SPECIAL COLOURS / FLEET - Virgin Australia's milestone 150th Boeing 737 enters service today, featuring names of all 8,000 team members
“This aircraft is a celebration of our team. Including their names is our way of recognising how important each and every one of them is to our journey."
But the biggest reveal is inside the cabin, where the names of more than 8,000 Virgin Australia team members are proudly displayed on the overhead lockers.
Lake Centenary is the 100th Boeing 737 in Virgin Australia’s current fleet and the 150th 737 delivered to the airline in the past 26 years. It is also the 17th new generation 737-8 MAX family aircraft to join the fleet since the first, Monkey Mia, was delivered in June 2023.
This year, Virgin Australia Group will welcome 12 737 8s, along with four Embraer E190 E2s for Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, as it continues a major fleet renewal program.
Virgin Australia Group CEO Dave Emerson said the milestone aircraft reflects the vital role Virgin Australia’s people have played in the company’s transformation.
“Lake Centenary is the 100th Boeing 737 in our current fleet and marks a truly monumental milestone. One that reflects just how far we have come since Virgin Blue launched in 2000 with just two aircraft, operating one route,” he said.
“This aircraft is a celebration of our team. Including their names is our way of recognising how important each and every one of them is to our journey.
“Lake Centenary also represents our continued investment in a more efficient and modern fleet. The 737-8 is approximately 19 per cent more fuel efficient than our existing 737-800s and around 50 per cent quieter, delivering meaningful reductions in both emissions and noise.
“Fleet renewal is the most impactful lever we have to reduce our emissions in the short to medium term, while also improving operational efficiency and delivering a better experience for our guests.”
Virgin Australia First Officer Amy Dunn said the arrival of Lake Centenary was a special moment for the team.
“It’s an incredible acknowledgement of the team to have our names printed on the overhead lockers of this very special aircraft,” she said.
“I have no doubt that Flight and Cabin Crew will be incredibly proud to operate this aircraft and will be lining up for the opportunity to fly on it.”
Lake Centenary’s flew its commercial service from Brisbane to Melbourne as VA308.
Its arrival will then be celebrated at a special Virgin Australia Family Day at the Virgin Australia hangar in Brisbane in June.
As part of a longstanding tradition, Virgin Australia names its aircraft after Australian bodies of water, paying tribute to the country’s unique natural environment.
SPECIAL COLOURS -Virgin Australia Lands Exciting New Collaboration with Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5
Virgin Australia has today unveiled a Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5” themed aircraft, its first co-branded livery in almost a decade, ahead of the highly anticipated movie launching in cinemas on 18 June 2026.
The design features the film’s iconic and much-loved characters, including Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear, transforming the aircraft into a flying celebration of one of the world’s most recognisable film franchises. It also marks the start of something magical, as Virgin Australia looks to bring wonderful to flying and create memorable, family-friendly moments throughout the travel experience.
It’s been more than 30 years since audiences first met Woody and Buzz Lightyear, and the custom-designed Boeing 737-800 aircraft reimagines the signature livery in a nostalgic tribute to a story that has grown up with generations of fans, now taking flight across the Virgin Australia domestic network.
The themed aircraft, which is expected to be seen by hundreds of thousands of Australians and visitors travelling from overseas, over the coming months, is part of a broader integrated campaign bringing Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5” to life across the entire Virgin Australia journey, including through airports, Virgin Australia lounges and onboard flights.
Onboard
From 1 June 2026, Virgin Australia travellers can enjoy Toy Story 5-themed surprise giveaways, including complimentary Toy Story themed colouring packs for children, access to the Toy Story series, alongside more than 60 Disney movie classics through Virgin Australia’s complimentary inflight entertainment.
A new inflight Toy Story 5 game will be available on all Virgin Australia domestic flights from 15 June to 19 July 2026. By participating, guests will have the opportunity to enter a competition to win a Pixar-themed experience in Tokyo for them and up to three friends or family members, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
On the ground
Virgin Australia is introducing Toy Tickets, an Australian airline-first, allowing children to request a personalised boarding pass at check-in for their favourite teddy or cuddly travel companion. The new guest initiative was born from the reunion of a young traveller and his toy teddy, initially lost on a Virgin Australia flight.
Toy Story 5 experiences will roll out across select airport terminals and Virgin Australia Lounges, while Velocity Frequent Flyer Platinum Plus members will be among the first to experience the new exciting initiatives, with special Toy Story 5 screenings in key locations across Australia.
Virgin Australia Chief Marketing and Customer Operations Officer, Libby Minogue, said the partnership brings one of the world’s most iconic movie franchises to life across the airline’s entire customer journey.
“Toy Story has always been about more than just characters, it’s the nostalgia and joy it holds for so many people,” said Ms Minogue.
Virgin Australia is introducing Toy Tickets, an Australian airline-first, allowing children to request a personalised boarding pass at check-in for their favourite teddy or cuddly travel companion. The new guest initiative was born from the reunion of a young traveller and his toy teddy, initially lost on a Virgin Australia flight.
Toy Story 5 experiences will roll out across select airport terminals and Virgin Australia Lounges, while Velocity Frequent Flyer Platinum Plus members will be among the first to experience the new exciting initiatives, with special Toy Story 5 screenings in key locations across Australia.
Virgin Australia Chief Marketing and Customer Operations Officer, Libby Minogue, said the partnership brings one of the world’s most iconic movie franchises to life across the airline’s entire customer journey.
“Toy Story has always been about more than just characters, it’s the nostalgia and joy it holds for so many people,” said Ms Minogue.
“Through our partnership with The Walt Disney Company Australia, we’re bringing the magic into the travel experience, creating moments of surprise and delight for our guests in a way that is distinctly Virgin Australia.”
"We are always looking for new ways to bring wonderful to flying and this partnership with Disney is the start of something magical and allows us to reimagine the travel experience in new and engaging ways, while delivering greater value for our Velocity Frequent Flyer members.”
The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Kylie Watson-Wheeler, said: “We’re thrilled to see Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 take flight with Virgin Australia in this special celebration of the film. Our iconic Toy Story characters and story have a special place in the hearts of generations. We can’t wait to see all the magical ways this collaboration brings joy to Virgin Australia customers.”
"We are always looking for new ways to bring wonderful to flying and this partnership with Disney is the start of something magical and allows us to reimagine the travel experience in new and engaging ways, while delivering greater value for our Velocity Frequent Flyer members.”
The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Kylie Watson-Wheeler, said: “We’re thrilled to see Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 take flight with Virgin Australia in this special celebration of the film. Our iconic Toy Story characters and story have a special place in the hearts of generations. We can’t wait to see all the magical ways this collaboration brings joy to Virgin Australia customers.”
segunda-feira, 25 de maio de 2026
FLEET - Air Niugini will gradually retire its Fokkers as new A220 jets are added to its fleet.
Three A220-300 aircraft are already operating, while eight A220-100 are expected to arrive by the end of 2027.
Photo: Air Niugini
FLEET - Malaysia Airlines marks a historic milestone with the delivery of its 200th Boeing aircraft since 1972.
The aircraft, a Boeing 737-8 with registration 9M-MVR, landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on May 21, 2026, after a 22-hour flight from Boeing's delivery center in Seattle.
The first of the 200 was a B737-200 in 1972.
This delivery represents the 18th Boeing 737-8 to join the Malaysia Airlines fleet, as part of a large order of 55 aircraft, consisting of 43 Boeing 737-8s and 12 Boeing 737-10s.
Photo: Malaysia
VINTAGE Aircraft - TransAer International Airlines was an Irish charter and ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) leasing airline that operated during the 1990s. "Andalusair" was simply the brand/trade name TransAer used for its Spanish operations. The airline ceased operations and went into liquidation in October 2000.
Flyingphotos - EI-TLT-A320-200- Faro
AIRLINE HISTORY DEFUNCT - Air Asturias was a short-lived, defunct Spanish airline based in Oviedo/Asturias, Spain, that ceased operations in January 2007
The airline operated for only a few months, launching in November 2006 to provide flights from Asturias to destinations like Madrid, Lisbon, and Paris before collapsing.
LTE started operations in behalf Air Asturias on 6 November 2006 using LTE's airline certificate and an Airbus A320-214 aircraft.
LTE started operations in behalf Air Asturias on 6 November 2006 using LTE's airline certificate and an Airbus A320-214 aircraft.
It ceased operations on January 26, 2007.
FLEET - Saudia becomes first Middle East and Africa operator of the Airbus A321XLR
Toulouse, 25 May 2026 – Saudia, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has taken delivery of its first A321XLR, marking a significant milestone as the first airline in the Middle East and Africa to operate Airbus’ newest extra-long-range single-aisle aircraft.
The aircraft, powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines, is the first of 15 A321XLRs on order by the airline. This delivery is a cornerstone of Saudia’s comprehensive fleet modernisation program, directly supporting the expansion of its international network in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. By increasing connectivity and capacity, the A321XLR will support the Kingdom’s ambition to attract over 150 million visitors annually by the end of the decade.
This delivery reinforces a partnership between Airbus and Saudia that spans more than 40 years, beginning with the carrier’s first A300 delivery in 1984. Today, Airbus aircraft remain central to Saudia's operations as it scales its fleet development and network growth.
Saudia currently serves more than 100 destinations across four continents, with the A321XLR supporting further expansion into new international markets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, the A321XLR enables Saudia to expand its international destinations with a single-aisle aircraft. These routes would have traditionally been served by larger widebody aircraft, while maintaining a premium guest experience.
The aircraft features a highly premium, low-density configuration with 24 full flat Business Class seats providing direct aisle access, alongside 120 comfortable Economy Class seats. The aircraft features the Airbus Airspace Cabin, bringing a widebody experience to a single-aisle jet. Key features include extra-large overhead bins, advanced lighting systems and one of the quietest cabins in its class.
The A321XLR is the latest evolution of the A320neo Family, designed to meet the global demand for increased range and operational flexibility. It delivers a 30% reduction in fuel burn per seat compared to previous-generation aircraft, lowering CO2 emissions and noise footprints. Today all Airbus aircraft are capable of operating with 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with a target to increase to up to 100% SAF capability by 2030, directly supporting the aviation industry’s sustainability goals.
To date, the A320 Family has secured more than 19,900 orders from over 300 customers worldwide, solidifying its position as the world’s most successful commercial aircraft programme.
domingo, 24 de maio de 2026
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