domingo, 5 de abril de 2026
sábado, 4 de abril de 2026
FLEET - The first of 6 A320NEO for Edelweiss - “Hoch-Ybrig”, HB-JDB ex SWISS
Norwich - EGSH, United Kingdom
Photo: Bradley Bygrave
sexta-feira, 3 de abril de 2026
SPECIAL COLOURS - American Airlines, in partnership with Qatar Airways, celebrates FIFA World Cup 26 with new aircraft livery, final chance to score match tickets with the AAdvantage program and customer celebrations across the country
- American debuts first sports-themed aircraft livery
- Announcement of last opportunity to redeem miles for match tickets
- Celebrations with customers at airports and popular locations throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico
This livery is more than a design — it’s a symbol of how American connects people not just to destinations, but to the passions, teams and moments they care about most. The specially designed Boeing 737-800 entered service on Feb. 15 and will be visible throughout the tournament this summer — bringing fans to the action and turning heads along the way.
And the love for football doesn’t stop there. More than 1,460 aircraft — representing the majority of American’s fleet — proudly display a custom FIFA World Cup 26™ decal, honoring the airline’s commitment to connecting fans and teams to the world’s most celebrated sporting event.
“We’re honored to serve as the Official North American Airline Supplier of the FIFA World Cup 26™ and to be part of a moment that brings people, cultures and communities together,” said Caroline Clayton, American’s Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Communications. “Our sponsorships help us create deeper connections with our customers, and this new sports-themed livery is just one of the ways we’re bringing the excitement of the tournament to their travel experience.”
The airline transformed its Miami hangar into the ultimate football experience with the debut of its FIFA World Cup 26™-themed aircraft livery alongside food and beverages inspired by Miami’s rich culture and appearances by the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Official Mascots. Guests were welcomed with remarks from football icons Thierry Henry and Tim Howard, along with American executives including Chief Commercial Officer Nat Pieper, Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Communications Caroline Clayton, and Vice President of Miami Operations Juan Carlos Liscano. The program also featured remarks from FIFA Chief Business and Strategy Officer Amy Hopfinger and Miami‑Dade County leaders Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins. The remarks helped set the stage for an immersive evening that brought the spirit of the tournament to life.
“The excitement across North America is palpable and those of us who have been immersed in football for our entire lives are especially looking forward to how the tournament will grow both participation in and following of the world’s beautiful game,” said Tim Howard, former USMNT Goal keeper and sports broadcaster. “Brands like American are key to fueling that growth by enhancing the matchday experience and citywide celebrations for fans of all ages.”
FLEET - First KLM A350 Moves to Final Assembly Line
The Airbus A350 represents an important step towards a cleaner and quieter fleet.
Compared to the Boeing 777-200ER, the A350 consumes 25% less fuel and has a 40% smaller noise footprint. For passengers, the A350 sets a new standard in comfort, offering the quietest cabin in its class, improved air quality, and higher cabin pressure. Pilots benefit from a fully digital cockpit, providing new opportunities for efficiency and support.
Fleet Renewal
KLM will invest €7 billion in fleet renewal over the coming years. In addition to the introduction of the Airbus A350, this includes the Embraer 195-E2 for KLM Cityhopper, new Airbus A321neo aircraft for European routes, and the Boeing 787 for intercontinental flights. In 2027, the A350F will join the fleet for cargo operations.
Photo credits: Simone Chellini, Airways Magazine
Fleet Renewal
KLM will invest €7 billion in fleet renewal over the coming years. In addition to the introduction of the Airbus A350, this includes the Embraer 195-E2 for KLM Cityhopper, new Airbus A321neo aircraft for European routes, and the Boeing 787 for intercontinental flights. In 2027, the A350F will join the fleet for cargo operations.
Photo credits: Simone Chellini, Airways Magazine
ORDER - SUM Air Orders Up to Eight ATR 72-600s
Seoul, 3 April 2026 – ATR, the world’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer, today announced that SUM Air, Korea’s newest regional airline, has placed an order for four brand‑new ATR 72‑600 aircraft, along with four additional purchase rights, with deliveries scheduled from 2028. The agreement was signed on the occasion of the France–Korea bilateral economic forum held in Seoul, attended by the French President, marking a significant milestone for the airline, which began its commercial operations in March 2026 with a new leased ATR 72-600 from Avation.
Founded in 2022, SUM Air aims to reconnect Korea’s most underserved regions – including future island airports and short-haul routes to neighbouring countries like Japan and China – with reliable, responsible and affordable air mobility. The airline received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) on 10 March 2026, following more than three years of preparation, personnel training, safety validation and aircraft integration.
This new order represents the next step in SUM Air’s long-term vision, ensuring the airline can gradually expand its domestic and international network while supporting Korea’s ambition to enhance regional mobility.
Yongduck Choi, Chief Executive Officer of SUM Air, said: “Sum Air, a regional air mobility airline, aims to strengthen regional connectivity across Korea and serve as a key part of the aviation infrastructure supporting regional revitalization through its partnership with ATR, a world-leading manufacturer of regional aircraft. Starting with the Gimpo–Sacheon route, we will build a spoke network linking inland and island airports. The aircraft acquired through this agreement will be deployed to operate routes to island airports such as Ulleungdo, Baengnyeongdo, and Heuksando. The ATR 72-600, optimized for short-haul operations, will play a pivotal role in enabling Sum Air to deliver air services that connect islands and regions across Korea.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, added: “The ATR 72‑600 is designed exactly for the type of regional connectivity SUM Air aims to develop. Its short‑runway performance will allow SUM Air to access island airports where jets cannot operate, and its fuel efficiency and cost effectiveness make routes viable that would otherwise not be sustainable. With this aircraft, SUM Air can reliably serve communities across Korea, from east to west and from the mainland to future island airports, while keeping operations economical and environmentally responsible.”
ATR has long identified Korea as a market with significant untapped potential for regional aviation, forecasting a fleet of 25–30 ATR 72 aircraft in the country within the coming years. SUM Air’s decision reinforces this outlook and reflects growing confidence in ATR’s state-of-the-art turboprop technology as the right solution for Korea’s geography and route structure.
Yongduck Choi, Chief Executive Officer of SUM Air, said: “Sum Air, a regional air mobility airline, aims to strengthen regional connectivity across Korea and serve as a key part of the aviation infrastructure supporting regional revitalization through its partnership with ATR, a world-leading manufacturer of regional aircraft. Starting with the Gimpo–Sacheon route, we will build a spoke network linking inland and island airports. The aircraft acquired through this agreement will be deployed to operate routes to island airports such as Ulleungdo, Baengnyeongdo, and Heuksando. The ATR 72-600, optimized for short-haul operations, will play a pivotal role in enabling Sum Air to deliver air services that connect islands and regions across Korea.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, added: “The ATR 72‑600 is designed exactly for the type of regional connectivity SUM Air aims to develop. Its short‑runway performance will allow SUM Air to access island airports where jets cannot operate, and its fuel efficiency and cost effectiveness make routes viable that would otherwise not be sustainable. With this aircraft, SUM Air can reliably serve communities across Korea, from east to west and from the mainland to future island airports, while keeping operations economical and environmentally responsible.”
ATR has long identified Korea as a market with significant untapped potential for regional aviation, forecasting a fleet of 25–30 ATR 72 aircraft in the country within the coming years. SUM Air’s decision reinforces this outlook and reflects growing confidence in ATR’s state-of-the-art turboprop technology as the right solution for Korea’s geography and route structure.
SPECIAL COLOURS - China Airlines unveils the new "Pikachu Jet CI2"
Taipei Taoyuan Int'l Airport - RCTP, Taiwan
Taiwanese airline China Airlines has unveiled its second Pokémon-themed aircraft, the "Pikachu Jet CI2," in partnership with The Pokémon Company.
The Airbus A350-900 features a vibrant flying Pokémon livery under the theme "Flying to the World" and entered service on April 2nd. Initially assigned to the Taoyuan – Tokyo (Narita) and Taoyuan – Seattle routes,
Thirteen Pokémon adorn the fuselage of the Pikachu Jet CI2.
The cloud and flower motifs on the fuselage are inspired by traditional Taiwanese decorative tile art.
The charming Pokémon designs and distinctive Taiwanese tile motifs extend to the aircraft's onboard amenities. The dinner tray placemat, nut mix, themed paper cups, headrest cover, and pillowcases feature creative details.
Informations: China Airlines / Photos: FISH___1027
VINTAGE Special Colours - Delta Air Lines / B757-200 / N6701 - Salt Lake City Olympic “Soaring Spirit”
quinta-feira, 2 de abril de 2026
SPECIAL COLOURS - Citilink / Airbus A320-214 / PK-GLY - "Semangat Gerak x Aqua"
Photo: Stanley Joe Hidayat
NEW LIVERY - Peach unveils new livery
Peach has revealed a rebranding, including a new livery. The airline is taking advantage of its 15th anniversary to revamp its brand.
The new livery is less bold and purple than the current one.
Peach's fleet consists of thirteen A320s, 22 A320neos, and three A321neos.
Photos: Peach Aviation
SPECIAL COLOURS - JetBlue's Blueprint-livery returns
JetBlue is about to receive a new Airbus A220-300 with a new version of its "Blueprint" livery. Dubbed "Blueprint II," the livery was applied to aircraft N3308J (55446)
The first "Blueprint" livery was used by the Embraer ERJ190AR N304JB (19000257),
Compared to the first, the new version is a darker blue and features some new elements. Among them, a bear, a fan favorite, a crown to symbolize its flights to London, Chicago popcorn, a navigation sextant in the cockpit, and a can of in-flight syrup to highlight the aircraft's Canadian heritage.
Photo: JetBlue.
AIRLINE - Icelandair mulls buying 49% of PLAY Europe's Maltese AOC
Photo: Icelandair - A321LR
"Having access to an air operator certificate in Malta in addition to the Icelandic one can open up new and exciting business opportunities and at the same time simplify our operations in Iceland and increase efficiency," president and chief executive officer Bogi Nils Bogason said.
The airline underlined that the discussions are preliminary and the terms of the potential acquisition are yet to be finalised.
However, explaining the rationale, Icelandair said that it was evaluating using the Maltese AOC to split its core fleet dedicated to scheduled operations out of Reykjavik Keflavik, and other aircraft currently operating charters or ACMI flights. "Acquiring a share in the company would open up new opportunities for Icelandair, for example, in charter services, as the Maltese company has access to more extensive air service agreements and double taxation treaties. At the same time, it would create opportunities to separate the company’s fleet operations," the airline said.
Bogason pointed out that having more than one AOC was "common" in Europe, and would increase Icelandair's flexibility and competitiveness.
Icelandair currently only has the Icelandic AOC.
PLAY used to compete with Icelandair as a low-cost carrier with a hub at Keflavik. While originally set up with the Icelandic AOC, it launched PLAY Europe in 2025 to lower the cost of its ACMI-out business. It later proposed closing the Icelandic AOC altogether to focus on ACMI and charter business with the Maltese certificate. This change never went through before PLAY ceased operations at the end of September 2025, buckling under the weight of sustained losses.
While PLAY's Icelandic AOC is no longer active, the Maltese one is. Three dry leased A320-200Ns remain registered in Iceland to the company, after the local regulator blocked their deregistration pending the settlement of all debts. The Maltese unit no longer has any aircraft.
Fly Play Europe, trading as PLAY Europe, is wholly owned by FPEHM Ltd., a Maltese company incorporated in January 2026. This firm is, in turn, wholly owned by Icelandic company Fly Play Europe Holdco. The Icelandic business register shows the beneficial owner of the firm is the CEO of PLAY, Einar Orn Olafsson.
FLEET - Motu Link aims for three ATRs by 2027
Motu Link Airline (Papeete) plans to grow its fleet to three aircraft by 2027 as it prepares to launch cargo operations, chief executive Alexandre Mu told media and consulting company Kaori Media. The start-up is awaiting its air operator's certificate, with operations expected "within a matter of weeks" once approvals are completed.
Mu said about 95% of certification with the French civil aviation authority (DGAC) is complete, with remaining steps focused on flight inspections and final audits. The airline recently completed a maintenance audit.
The carrier has recently taken delivery of an ATR72-500(F), F-OHEI (msn 713), which will serve Tahiti-outer island and interisland cargo routes. Mu said additional second-hand ATR - Avions de Transport Régional turboprops will be acquired to support reliability and maintenance coverage.
Initial operations will focus on domestic freight, with potential expansion to regional routes such as New Caledonia. As previously reported by ch-aviation, the carrier will initially fly to and from Papeete, Raiatea, Bora Bora, Rangiroa, Tubuai, and Nuku Hiva.
CH Aviation
FLEET - KIN AVIA from DRC acquires two Dash 8-Q100s
The Dash 8-100 is a 37-seat twin-engine turboprop designed for short-range regional operations, making it ideal for operating from smaller or regional runways in the DRC.
KIN AVIA secured its first Dash 8-Q100 in 2020-2022 to support its operations, initially using it while operating from Kinshasa N'dolo.
Operational Focus: The turboprops will bolster domestic flight operations to support the growing regional aviation demand
FLEET - Aviation Capital Group Delivers First of Six New Boeing 737-8 MAX Aircraft to Royal Air Maroc
Flyingphotos
The new aircraft, equipped with CFM LEAP-1B engines, is the first ACG 737-8 MAX to be placed on lease with Royal Air Maroc as part of a six-aircraft transaction, with the remaining five scheduled for delivery through 2026 from its orderbook.
"ACG is honored to partner with Royal Air Maroc on the lease and delivery of the first of six Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft. This transaction builds on our longstanding relationship and supports the airline's continued fleet modernization and expansion plans with these latest generation, fuel-efficient aircraft. We look forward to delivering the remaining aircraft through 2026," said Thomas Baker, Chief Executive Officer and President of ACG.
"The integration of these six new Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft represents a significant advancement in the ongoing modernization and expansion of Royal Air Maroc's fleet, allowing us to greatly strengthen our short and medium-haul network capabilities. These aircraft will support our ambition to become a leading global connector and enhance our ability to deliver resilient, high performance connectivity to our customers, linking Africa and Europe to the wider global network," said Abdelhamid Addou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Air Maroc.
NEW AIRLINE - Amazone Airlines is a new Beninese airline that launched domestic operations on March 23, 2026, primarily linking Cotonou and Parakou
Formed by the merger of Bénin Airlines and Cronos Airlines Benin, it is designed as a new national carrier to strengthen connectivity and boost tourism in collaboration with potential, early-stage partnerships like Qatar Airways.
The airline received its Operating License (AOC) from Benin's National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) on February 13, 2026, followed by its inaugural flight on March 23, 2026.
Routes: It connects the capital, Cotonou, to Parakou, offering a faster alternative to land travel between the south and central parts of the country.
Structure: It is a newly formed entity arising from the merger of Benin Airlines (formerly Air Taxi Benin) and Cronos Airlines Benin, created to revive the national flag carrier initiative.
The establishment of the airline aims to boost national air connectivity and meet the national goal of attracting over 2 million tourists annually.
Operations: Early operations have utilized aircraft such as the Twin Otter DHC-6-400
NEW AIRLINE - Magnifica Air seeks three A321neo for dry lease Support Contact Newsroom Print Page
Magnifica Air (Orlando International) has appointed Skytech-AIC to scout the market for three "new or nearly new" A321-200N aircraft and at least two Pratt & Whitney PW1133G engines for lease. The all-business class boutique start-up previously appointed the same firm as advisor for the acquisition and financing of new A220-300s and A321-200Ns in executive configuration in December 2025. Magnifica Air plans to launch in the second half of 2027. It has so far taken up a single A321-200NX, which is now undergoing cabin reconfiguration at a Comlux Completion facility.
CH Aviation
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