terça-feira, 28 de julho de 2026

Argentine Government / Boeing 757-256(WL) / ARG01

Duncan Stewart - LAX
 

FLEET - AirBlue to add 3 A320neo

AirBlue (PA, Karachi International) has signed a dry lease commitment for three A320-200Ns from Macquarie AirFinance. The aircraft will become the first of the type for the Pakistani airline. The parties did not disclose the timeline for deliveries. ch-aviation data shows the lessor has firm orders for nine undelivered A320-200Ns.
AirBlue's current fleet comprises five A320-200s, five A321-200s, and two A321-200NX.
CH Aviation


 

FLEET - Jet2 (UK) has selected LEAP-1A engines to power an additional 54 A321neo aircraft, completing engine selection for its entire A321neo fleet



The order also includes a long-term engine maintenance agreement.
Photo: Flyingphotos

FLEET - Siam Wing Airlines to take delivery of one A330-200, It will operate out of U-Tapao.


 

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.

For the full year, the carrier plans to take delivery of 64 B737-8s while retiring around 60 aircraft.

Photo: Duncan Stewart

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



SailGP, the most exciting race on water, makes a highly anticipated return to England’s south coast this summer with Emirates. The world’s largest international airline serves as Title Partner of the Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix Portsmouth, Global Partner and Exclusive Airline Partner of SailGP, and Naming Partner of the Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team.

Taking place on 25th –26th July in Portsmouth, the airline will be landside offering a range of unique fan experiences, including premium hospitality, exclusive behind-the-scenes Tech Base tours, and exciting giveaways.

‘Sail better’ with Emirates

Fans can look forward to an action-packed two-day tournament featuring ‘sail better’ moments with Emirates. Across the race venue, Emirates Cabin Crew will welcome guests and create memorable moments through a range of premium experiences, including the distribution of co-branded seat cushions, Polaroid keepsakes and Emirates gifting.

Following each day's racing, fans can enjoy live entertainment, with Jess Glynne performing on Saturday and Craig David presents TS5 on Sunday, rounding off an unforgettable weekend on Portsmouth's waterfront.

Emirates sponsorships in the UK

Emirates has championed the sport of sailing since 2004 as the naming sponsor of Emirates Team New Zealand in the America’s Cup. The global SailGP calendar continues to showcase the Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team competing on the world stage aboard its distinctive Emirates-branded F50.

Emirates was the first ever naming sponsor of one of Britain’s tallest landmarks outside London, Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth (from 2015 – 2020). The airline also had close ties with the America’s Cup World Series event that took place in Portsmouth in 2015, and again in 2016, as the Title Sponsor of Emirates Team New Zealand. Emirates was also announced as ‘Presenting Partner’ of the America’s Cup World Series event which was scheduled to take place in Portsmouth in 2020.

In the UK, the airline is also a proud partner of Arsenal FC, the Emirates FA Cup, Lancashire Cricket Club in addition to Emirates Old Trafford, The Championships - Wimbledon, as well as the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup.

 

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.

"The refurbishment included major structural repairs and upgrades to ensure the highest standards of safety, reliability, and passenger comfort," the airline said. Work began in September 2025 and is expected to extend the aircraft's operational life by around 30 years.

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

STARLUX Airlines today marked a milestone as its STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA aircraft celebrated its inaugural long-haul commercial service, touching down at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Flight JX026 featured the new STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA SILVER (B-58553), an Airbus A350-1000 reimagined as a flying masterpiece through a partnership with legendary Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama — making Phoenix the first destination in North America to welcome the iconic aircraft.

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

AIRPORT - EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg











 Paul Bannwarth

FLEET / ORDER - Aerolíneas Argentinas orders 20 aircraft.



The plan includes 6 Airbus A330neo, 8 Boeing 737 MAX 10, and 6 Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets.


The first aircraft to arrive will be a Boeing 737 MAX 8, expected in the first quarter of 2027. Airbus A330neo deliveries begin in the first half of 2028 and continue through 2029 and 2030.

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 - Volaris reports its contractual fleet will adjust from 155 aircraft today to 137 aircraft by year-end 2027, after deferring deliveries and allowing lease returns


AOG are currently at 24 aircraft, with 2H in the low-to-mid 20s.
Photo: Duncan Stewart. - LAX

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.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, rival Air Astana planned to convert its B767-300ERs to freighters, but the plans did not ultimately materialise.
CH Avaition

FLEET - Finnair has already signed LOIs for six used A320 aircraft targeted for entry in 2027, with up to 12 A320 family aircraft being sought.


 The final A350 is scheduled for delivery in 4Q 2026.

Flyingphotos

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.

London Gatwick - EGKK, United Kingdom
Photo: n94504 / jetphotos.


Air Zimbabwe has launched its first direct flight between Harare and London Gatwick.
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.

 

VINTAGE Aircraft - KLM Royal Dutch Airlines / A310-200 / PH-AGB

Flyingphotos - Lisboa - 1995
 

N426FE - Airbus A310-200(F) - FedEx Express - Jul 1996 - Cargo

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.
CH Aviation

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.

The new freighters will be used to increase Azul Logística’s network across Latin America, including double-daily domestic flights from São Paulo Viracopos to Manaus International and Belém International, as well as selected international routes to Santiago de Chile, Buenos Aires Ministro Pistarini, Lima International, and Montevideo Carrasco. Azul is also planning charter operations. 

“This freighter type offers the ideal versatility and size, allowing Azul to flex and offer market solutions where they are most needed,” Izabel Reis, director of Azul Logística said. “So it was an easy decision to expand and modernise our fleet with an additional four Airbus 321 freighters, going forward. They will replace our B737-400(F), resulting in more sustainable operations and a significant boost to intra–Latin American capacity.” 

The identity of the four freighters has not been revealed. Azul currently has two A321-200(P2F)s in its cargo division’s fleet.
CH Aviation

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



Philippine Airlines (PAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rolls-Royce for 18 Trent XWB-97 engines to power nine additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, as well as engines for up to five more aircraft covered by PAL's purchase rights.

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.

The Trent XWB-97, the exclusive engine for the Airbus A350-1000, is known for exceptional fuel efficiency, reliability and environmental performance. “This investment manifests our confidence in the future of Philippine Airlines. Together, the Airbus A350-1000 and the Trent XWB-97 engine will continue to define our flagship long-haul operations for many years to come,” said Lucio C. Tan III, President and Chief Operating Officer of PAL Holdings, Inc.

“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

FlyArystan (Kazakhstan) announces the launch of a new international route between Almaty and Chongqing from 23 September 2026.

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



Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC) attended the Farnborough International Airshow 2026 on July 20th, showcasing mockups of C909 baseline aircraft and aircraft derivatives as well as mockups of C919 and C929 aircraft, and presenting the product lineup of China's commercial aircraft series. During the airshow, COMAC would have in-depth exchanges and discussions on cooperation with global customers and partners, and work together to promote the prosperous development of the civil aviation transportation industry.

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)

 


 

quarta-feira, 22 de julho de 2026

SPECIAL LIVERY - Southwest Airlines / B737-800 / N500WR - "Freedom One"

George757
 

ORDER - Alaska Airlines, Inc. selects 737-800s to strengthen Hawaiian Airlines’ Neighbor Island service, enhancing the guest experience and increasing capacity


Hawaiian Airlines-branded Boeing 737-800s will replace the retiring Boeing 717 fleet, bringing proven, reliable aircraft with premium interiors and fast, free Starlink Wi-Fi to Neighbor Island flying.

The future fleet will be based in Honolulu (HNL) and flown and crewed by Honolulu-based pilots and flight attendants.

This represents the next step in the journey to bring more value to Hawai‘i and the Hawai‘i traveler, building on an expanded network, industry-leading loyalty program and comprehensive investments across technology, aircraft, airports, guest experience and community.

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

The future fleet will carry the Hawaiian brand and focus on Neighbor Island service, based in Honolulu (HNL). The airline’s plan is for these aircraft to be flown by Honolulu-based pilots and flight attendants once the integration is complete, sustaining the safe, reliable and frequent service Hawai‘i residents depend on for work, school, family, medical care and everyday life across the Islands while delivering a more modern and premium onboard experience for all guests.
Neighbor Island flying is uniquely demanding, with short segments, frequent daily cycles and operations in a salt-air environment. 
The 737-800 is a durable, reliable and proven aircraft with airframes and engines that can withstand the high cycles of Neighbor Island operations, while enabling the airline to maintain capacity to meet demand with a full schedule of frequent departures from morning to evening.

The goal is to begin the fleet transition in 2028 and move quickly to bring this additional capacity and enhanced experience to our guests. 
Additional details will be shared as planning continues.
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. 
Starting in October, one Alaska-branded 737 aircraft will fly three round trips per day between Honolulu and Kahului (OGG). This 737 will operate out of Terminal 1 at Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, and guests will be able to check in at Terminal 1.
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. 
Strength in Hawai‘i and continued investment in the Hawaiian brand are central to that plan.
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.