sexta-feira, 6 de fevereiro de 2026

CARGO AIRLINE - Rimbun Air / Boeing 737-86Q(SF) / PK-OTD

Wenzhou - ZSWZ, China
Photo: Locky Lin


A brief history
Rimbun Air was founded in 2017, initially operating with DHC-6 aircraft, focusing on charter flights for passengers and cargo, primarily in remote areas of Papua.

In 2021, it expanded its fleet with Boeing 737-300 aircraft, offering air cargo routes to Makassar, Kendari, and Pontianak.

In early 2022, the addition of another Boeing 737-300 allowed it to expand operations to Banjarmasin and Balikpapan.

At the end of 2022, it received its first Boeing 737-800, launching new routes to Pekanbaru, Batam, Palu, Gorontalo, and Manado.

In 2023, it added two more Boeing 737-300 aircraft and expanded services to Jayapura and Wamena.

SPECIAL COLOURS - Vueling / A320-214 / EC-KLB - New Cantabria Infinita special livery


Photo: Pablo Gonzalez de Leon


AIR ZETA / HL7417 / HL7417 / Boeing 747-48E(BDSF)

Duncan Stewart
 

SPECIAL LIVERY - Avianca Cargo / N338QT / Airbus A330-343(P2F)

Duncan Stewart
 

All liveries feature comprehensive exterior detailing, including custom base textures and meticulously tuned ambient occlusion. Furthermore, the colors used in this livery have been derived from thousands of samples, painstakingly taken from hundreds of real-world images

NEW AIRLINE - Crystal Bay Airlines is a new Vietnamese airline established as a subsidiary of the Crystal Bay Tourism Group and was officially registered and established on 06Nov2025

An illustrative image showing a Crystal Bay Airlines plane. (Photo: dantri.com.vn)

primarily international inbound leisure charters (not domestic scheduled services), targeting tourists to Vietnam’s resort areas 

Crystal Bay Tourism Group primarily operates in the fields of tourism, travel, resorts and tourism real estate investment. Prior to establishing the airline, the group had never directly owned or operated a fleet of aircraft under the Crystal Bay brand.

However, since around 2022, the company has become deeply involved in air transport serving tourism by organising and operating international charter flights bringing tourists to Vietnam, especially to destinations like Cam Ranh Bay and Phu Quoc Island.

These charter flights are often regularly operated by airlines like Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways, connecting Vietnam with many markets, including Kazakhstan, Taiwan (China), Thailand, Mongolia and Uzbekistan.

By 2023, Crystal Bay had also established Crystal Bay Tour Co Ltd to develop software for selling airline tickets and tours while also implementing marketing and communication activities, which are considered vital for a travel business.

Crystal Bay's establishment of its own airline company is widely seen as a reasonable next step, aimed at completing its ecosystem and boosting its tourism business.


Several aircraft models of COMAC debut at Singapore Airshow 2026

COMAC attended the Singapore Airshow 2026 held at the Changi Exhibition Centre on February 3rd, showing C909 and C919 aircraft and further deepening exchanges and cooperation with its partners. During the airshow, C919 aircraft, C909 medical rescue aircraft, and C909 aircraft of TransNusa were jointly presented in the static display area, and C919 aircraft would conduct a demonstration flight.



C909 aircraft has a layout of 78 to 97 seats and a range of 2,225 to 3,700 kilometers, and has excellent take-off and landing performance and crosswind resistance at airports with short and narrow runways in high temperature and plateau conditions. C919 aircraft has a layout of 158 to 192 seats and a range of 4,075 to 5,555 kilometers, and adopts an advanced cockpit design to provide pilots with pleasant flight experience, while low noise and fresh air offer passengers comfortable riding experience. Up to now, a total of more than 200 aircraft of the two models have been delivered, and the aircraft have successively operated in more than 800 routes, and carried more than 36,000,000 passengers.



 COMAC has attached great importance to the Southeast Asian aviation market. In recent years, C909 aircraft have been successively put into operation in Indonesia, Laos and Vietnam, and a total of nine C909 aircraft operated by TransNusa, Lao Airlines and Vietjet Air have successively operated in more than 20 routes, carrying more than 700,000 passengers.

COMAC has been continuously promoting the series development of its aircraft products. For the first time in Southeast Asia, it showed C909 medical rescue aircraft equipped with ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment equipment and having the conditions for ophthalmic surgery. C909 medical rescue aircraft is developed and modified from the basic model. The cabin of the aircraft can be flexibly laid out according to different needs, which can meet the requirements of various application scenarios including providing medical rescue, transferring patients and transporting medical teams.

COMAC will insist on the principle of being customer centered, continuously improve its products and customer service network to better meet the needs of customers in Southeast Asia and around the world, and be committed to providing reliable new options for the civil air transport market.

quinta-feira, 5 de fevereiro de 2026

SPECIAL COLOURS - SriLankan Airlines unveils special livery to promote Colombo Nawam Maha Perahera


 4R-ANC / Airbus A321-251N

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Int'l - VTBS, Thailand

Photo: Whisky Juliet Yankee

SriLankan Airlines and Gangaramaya Temple launch a global campaign for the 2026 Navam Maha Perahera, promoting Sri Lanka's heritage with a special Airbus A321neo.

FLEET - Flytec (Argentina) is adding its first De Havilland Canada DHC-8-Q400 to its fleet.

N4118M  / Bombardier Dash 8-Q402


Malta Int'l - LMML, Malta
Photo: MSA130



The aircraft is a , formerly Flybe, previously registered as G-JECM.
Based in Salta and founded in 2018, Flytec specializes in services for the mining sector. This addition represents a major expansion for the airline, which is shifting from a fleet of Beechcraft King Airs to larger turboprop aircraft.

ANA receives Boeing’s 100th 787 Landing Gear Exchange Delivery

Boeing’s Landing Gear Exchange program offers airlines a cost-effective, efficient solution for maintaining their fleets.


SINGAPORE, Feb. 4, 2026 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] successfully completed its 100th 787 Landing Gear Exchange (LGE) delivery, highlighting its commitment to innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety for its customers. The milestone delivery was received by ANA.


“The Landing Gear Exchange program has been instrumental in optimizing our maintenance operations and ensuring the highest levels of safety during our passengers’ journeys with us,” said Yukifumi Ueda, vice president and general manager, Engine, Component & Supply Chain, ANA. “This latest delivery demonstrates our strong partnership with Boeing and our commitment to providing exceptional, seamless service to our customers.”

Boeing delivered its 100th 787 Landing Gear Exchange to ANA, underscoring its commitment to innovative solutions that improve customer safety and operational efficiency.

ANA has received and installed landing gear assemblies through the exchange program on 30 of its 787s.

“This milestone reinforces our dedication to providing airlines with critical parts when and where needed to maximize fleet availability and strengthen operational resilience. By ensuring a reliable and efficient supply chain, we continue to drive measurable value for airline operations worldwide,” said William Ampofo, senior vice president, Parts & Distribution and Supply Chain, Boeing Global Services. “We are also investing in and expanding our exchange pool capacity to meet the growing needs of our customers as they begin their 787-9 overhaul cycle.”

Over the past 20 years, the LGE program has become the preferred choice for operators around the globe. Boeing has successfully contracted exchanges for more than 480 787 tails from 34 airlines into the landing gear exchange skyline – with many customers extending services or adding tails to the exchange. ANA has LGE contracts to support its 787-8 and 787-9 fleet. Other recent contracts include unnamed customers signing up for a total of 65 exchanges for their 787-8 and 787-9 fleets.

Boeing’s LGE program also offers a capital-efficient model eliminating the need for airlines to purchase and manage landing gear assets or oversee complex overhaul processes. By delivering forward exchange of certified, overhauled landing gear, the program reduces green time loss and aircraft downtime, enabling airlines to preserve liquidity, streamline maintenance, and focus on delivering seamless, reliable service to their customers.

For more information about Boeing's Landing Gear Exchange program and other Boeing services, visit boeing.com.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

Boeing announces largest-ever Landing Gear Exchange agreement at Singapore Airshow


SINGAPORE, Feb. 4, 2026 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced the largest landing gear exchange contract in Boeing’s history at the Singapore Airshow. Under this contract, Boeing will provide landing gear exchanges for more than 75 aircraft across the 737 MAX and 787 fleets operated by the Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group. The landing gear exchange program offers gear overhaul scheduling flexibility that will optimize the useful life of the gears and minimizing aircraft downtime.

“Our relationship with the SIA Group is built on delivering dependable solutions,” said William Ampofo, senior vice president, Parts & Distribution and Supply Chain, Boeing Global Services. “By combining our global inventory and rapid distribution capabilities with the carrier’s maintenance planning, this agreement helps deliver parts faster and closer to operations—reducing downtime and supporting consistent, reliable service."

Boeing announced the largest landing gear exchange contract in Boeing’s history at the Singapore Airshow.


Boeing’s Landing Gear Exchange program provides tailored solutions to airline customers needing timely access to serviceable landing gear assemblies through a managed inventory and partner network. It reduces the need for carriers to hold large on-site spares, shortens maintenance-related aircraft on-ground time and supports sustained dispatch reliability across busy networks.

The agreement complements Boeing’s broader aftermarket portfolio, which includes parts distribution, repair management and logistics solutions designed to improve fleet readiness and reduce maintenance-related disruptions.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

FLEET - SWISS receives its second Airbus A350XWB jet, the first without special livery.


SWISS received its second brand-new Airbus A350-900 this week in Zurich.
The aircraft, registered as HB-IFB, was named Delémont and is the company's first A350 to sport the classic SWISS livery.
Photo: Swiss

ROUTES / FLEET - Air Zimbabwe plans to relaunch flights between Harare and London in June 2026, amidst fleet renewal.



Air Zimbabwe intends to relaunch its route between Harare and London in June 2026, after a 14-year hiatus.

The announcement was confirmed by the Mutapa Investment Fund.

The relaunch will involve the operation of a leased wide-body aircraft, a measure intended to address the company's current fleet limitations. Air Zimbabwe's current fleet includes Boeing 737-200 and 767-200ER aircraft.

Embraer delivered 233 commercial and executive jets in 2025


Embraer (EMB, São José dos Campos U.E. Stumpf International) delivered 233 commercial and executive aircraft during 2025, hitting the upper limit of its executive market forecast but the lower mark on the commercial market.

The manufacturer delivered 78 commercial aircraft, five more than in 2024. Its forecast for 2025 was between 77 and 85 commercial jets. The deliveries included:

thirty-four E175;
six E190-E2s;
thirty-eight E195-E2s.

The company also delivered 155 business jets, against the annual target of 145 to 155 deliveries. This marked an increase from 130 deliveries in 2024. The deliveries in this segment included:

fourteen Phenom 100EX;
seventy-two Phenom 300Es;
thirty-nine Praetor 500s;
thirty Praetor 600s.
Ch Aviation / Photo: Embraer

 

quarta-feira, 4 de fevereiro de 2026

SPECIAL COLOURS - JSX / Embraer ERJ-145 / N242JX - "Club JSX"


 Duncan Stewart

FRONTIER AIRLINES / A321NEO / N664FR


 Duncan Stewart

FLEET - SkyWest received five new E175s in the fourth quarter of 2025, under an agreement with United Airlines, and also signed a multi-year contract extension with United for 40 E175s in January 2026, in addition to a multi-year contract extension with Delta Air Lines for 13 E175s, also in January 2026.



By the end of 2028, SkyWest anticipates having nearly 300 E175 aircraft in its fleet.
Aviator

Duncan Stewart

NEW AIRLINE - Shohin Airlines (Tajikistan) has been registered in the country as a private carrier, and is currently based at Dushanbe.

Shohin Airlines is a new private airline registered in Tajikistan as of January 2026, aimed at expanding the country's civil aviation market. The startup is actively planning its operations, with reported intentions to utilize L410 aircraft for regional flights and Airbus aircraft for larger routes.

Key Details About Shohin Airlines:

Status: Newly registered private airline (January 2026).

Goal: Expanding Tajikistan's aviation market.

Fleet Plans: Eyeing L410s and Airbuses.

This development is part of a broader expansion in the Tajikistani aviation sector, which is increasingly dominated by private entities alongside the national carrier, Tajik Air.


 

ROUTES - Air Canada will launch flights from Toronto Pearson to Quito on 04 December 2026


As Toronto-Manchester and Toronto-Copenhagen become year-round supported by a A321XLR base. Also, new Calgary services to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta launch December 2026.

FLEET - JD Airlines launches A330-200P2F widebody operations

JD Airlines last week launched widebody freighter service, deploying its first A330-200P2F between Beijing and Urumqi in northwestern China. The Trent 700-powered A330-200P2F (832, ex-Air Belgium) operated its first revenue flight from Beijing (PKX) to Urumqi (URC) on Jan. 30,
Cargofacts


 

AIRCRAFT - Airbus, Singapore achieve world-first on A330 MRTT auto-refuelling full certification


Singapore, 4 February 2026 — Airbus and Singapore have achieved full certification of the Automatic Air-to-Air Refuelling (A3R) capability on the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). The Certification was granted by the Spanish National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA) following an extensive qualification and flight-test campaign conducted in close collaboration with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).

This represents a key milestone in the continued development of the A330 MRTT platform and marks a world-first in aviation, with the campaign confirming the A3R system’s maturity, safety, and reliability across a wide range of mission profiles. With this certification, the RSAF becomes the first air force globally to introduce A3R on its fleet of A330 MRTTs, operated by 112 Squadron, setting a new benchmark for automated refuelling.

Mike Schoellhorn, Chief Executive Officer at Airbus Defence and Space said: “The certification of A3R with Singapore is a significant achievement and a clear demonstration of what long-term partnership can deliver. Singapore has consistently led the adoption and co-development of next-generation aerospace technologies, and Airbus is proud to support the RSAF and DSTA in fielding a capability that will shape the future of air-to-air refuelling."

Ng Chad-son, Chief Executive, Defence Science and Technology Agency, said: “Achieving full certification of A3R is a significant achievement as Singapore’s A330 MRTTs can now perform automatic refuelling both in daytime and at night. DSTA worked very closely with the RSAF and Airbus to advance innovation, enhance safety and reduce crew workload. This attainment showcases effective technology integration and sets a new benchmark on automatic aerial refuelling globally.”

Major-General Kelvin Fan, Chief of Air Force at Republic of Singapore Air Force said: “The RSAF is pleased to have partnered with DSTA and Airbus in pioneering the world's first A3R capability. This development will enhance the RSAF's aerial refuelling operations, contributing to greater operational effectiveness. It also reflects the RSAF's commitment to working with industry partners to innovate and remain at the leading edge of technology."

The joint effort between Airbus, RSAF and DSTA began in 2020 to validate and accelerate entry into service of the A3R system. The certification programme encompassed day and night missions, expanded flight envelopes, and multiple receiver aircraft types, ensuring full mission readiness. The flight trials took place both in Spain and Singapore, with the RSAF providing the A330 MRTTs, as well as F16s and F15s, as receivers to support the testing and validations.

Developed by Airbus as part of its SMART MRTT vision, the A3R system employs advanced automation and computer vision technologies to automatically detect, track, and engage receiver aircraft, without the need for manual input. By reducing operator workload and enhancing precision, A3R improves mission safety, and delivers greater operational flexibility for air forces operating the A330 MRTT.

ORDER - Tigerair Taiwan orders four Airbus A321neo

Singapore, 4 February 2026 – Tigerair Taiwan has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for four A321neo aircraft, marking the airline’s first order for this type. The new aircraft will support the airline’s network expansion while delivering improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to previous generation aircraft.

The low-cost carrier which currently operates a fleet of 17 A320 Family aircraft, including nine A320ceo and eight A320neo, will benefit from greater commonality across the A320 Family, reducing training, maintenance and operating costs.

“The purchase of A321neo aircraft is a cornerstone of our ‘third-generation’ fleet expansion, designed to maximise operational efficiency as we scale for regional dominance,” said Chairperson Joyce Huang of Tigerair Taiwan. “Configured with 232 seats, the A321neo allows us to increase capacity on our high-demand ‘golden routes’ and accelerate network expansion. By serving more passengers across more destinations with a lower cost per seat, this investment reinforces our position as Taiwan’s leading LCC. Furthermore, it advances our journey toward a younger, more fuel-efficient fleet that meets both our commercial and ESG targets.”

“We are pleased to see Tigerair Taiwan reaffirm its confidence in Airbus as it takes another step in its fleet growth. The addition of the A321neo will complement its existing A320 fleet,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of Commercial Aircraft business. “The A321neo is the ideal platform for Tigerair Taiwan to capture growing demand while maintaining its commitment to cost-effective operations.”

The A321neo, the largest member of Airbus’ best-selling A320neo Family, offers segment-leading operating economics and extended range, enabling airlines to serve regional and medium-haul routes with greater flexibility. Compared with previous-generation aircraft, the A321neo delivers a reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions of at least 20%.

The A320neo Family has received more than 10,000 orders from over 130 customers worldwide. All Airbus aircraft are capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) today, with a target to enable 100% SAF capability by 2030.

 

ORDER - Vietjet selects RTX’s Pratt & Whitney to power 44 additional A320neo family aircraft


SINGAPORE, Feb. 4, 2026 – Vietjet Air and Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, announce that the airline has selected an additional 44 GTF-powered Airbus A320neo family aircraft, including 24 A321neos and 20 A321XLRs, bringing its total orders to 137 GTF-powered aircraft. Deliveries will start in July 2026. Pratt & Whitney will also provide Vietjet with engine maintenance through a 12-year EngineWise® Comprehensive service agreement.

Based in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, Vietjet received its first A321neo aircraft in 2018 and currently operates a fleet of 42 GTF-powered A321neo aircraft. Prior to this order, Vietjet committed to up to 93 aircraft of this type.
Vietjet

SPECIAL COLOURS - JetBlue Reveals Community-Chosen Livery Celebrating the Dominican Republic


 Designed by Dominican artist Willy Gómez, the aircraft will debut this spring

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- JetBlue (Nasdaq: JBLU), the largest airline serving the Dominican Republic, today proudly announces that a vibrant design by artist Willy Gómez has been selected for its first-ever special aircraft livery honoring the Dominican Republic. Chosen by public vote, the design celebrates the country’s rich cultural identity while underscoring JetBlue’s long-standing commitment to the Dominican community.

The livery is part of RD Orgullo que Eleva (DR Pride That Lifts), a campaign developed in collaboration with Dominican artists to elevate local talent and showcase the cultural pride, creativity, and spirit of the Dominican Republic.

“We’re proud to bring Dominican pride to the skies with JetBlue’s first livery dedicated to the Dominican Republic, designed by Willy Gómez and chosen by the community,” said Marty St. George, president of JetBlue. “This aircraft is a celebration of the culture, creativity, and energy of a country that has played a central role in JetBlue’s history. From opening Santiago, our first international destination in 2004, to becoming the largest airline serving the Dominican Republic, we are excited to celebrate more than two decades of service and connection.”

“Seeing this art take flight is seeing my roots rise,” said Willy Gómez. “It’s a tribute to my country, to its color, its energy, and the inspiration that has been with me always."

Launched in January, the RD Orgullo que Eleva campaign invited customers and fans to vote for their favorite design among three original concepts created by Dominican artists including Gómez, Los Plebeyos, and Lena Tolkens. Each design offered a distinct interpretation of Dominican culture, drawing inspiration from folklore, music, everyday life, nature, family, and national symbolism through each artist’s unique creative lens. JetBlue is grateful to the three artists for their creativity and passion, which brought powerful and authentic perspectives to this celebration.

Following an enthusiastic public response, the selected design will take flight later this spring on a JetBlue Airbus A320. More than a visual transformation, the livery serves as a flying tribute to the Dominican Republic and the millions of customers who share a deep connection to the country. It also reflects JetBlue’s continued investment and commitment to bringing together family and friends, supporting tourism and the local economy, and promoting the Dominican Republic as a dynamic, must-visit destination.

With more than 20 years of experience as an art director, illustrator, and muralist, Gómez draws on Neo-traditional and Art Nouveau influences to celebrate Dominican culture. His design captures the country’s rhythm and warmth through expressive linework, tropical motifs, and bold color contrasts inspired by music, dance, and coastal life. The aircraft will serve as a powerful symbol of Dominican pride and presence carrying that spirit across JetBlue’s network.


ROUTES - Thai VietJet Air will begin B737-8 flights from 26 January 2026, on international routes, including Japan, Vietnam and Macau from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi and Chiang Mai.

Photo: Thai Vietjet / Aviator
 

SPONSORSHIP - Etihad Airways Named Official Partner and Sponsor of Race 1 at the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup

UAE's national airline joins Abu Dhabi Turf Club to elevate the Emirate's premier international thoroughbred racing event

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has been announced as the Official Partner of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup and Presenting Partner of Race 1. The strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Turf Club sets the stage for an extraordinary celebration of sport, heritage, and world-class hospitality as Abu Dhabi continues to rise as a destination for elite international events.

The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup takes place on Saturday, 7 February 2026 at Abu Dhabi Turf Club. The one-mile race carries a total prize fund of USD 1 million, drawing elite thoroughbred horses, world-class jockeys, and renowned trainers from leading racing nations worldwide.

Organised by Abu Dhabi Turf Club, the event is central to the Club's ambitious vision to establish Abu Dhabi as a premier global destination for horse racing excellence, innovation, and exceptional race-day experiences, while honouring the UAE's rich equestrian heritage.

Through this partnership, Etihad will welcome international racing enthusiasts travelling to the capital for the event, bringing together two organisations united by their Abu Dhabi roots and driven by a shared ambition to deliver world-class experiences and the highest standards of excellence.

His Excellency Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Abu Dhabi Turf Club and President of the Organising Committee, commented:

"We are delighted to welcome Etihad as an Official Sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup and Presenting Partner of Race 1. As the UAE's national airline, Etihad plays a vital role in connecting Abu Dhabi to the world, and this partnership strengthens the Emirate's presence on the international racing stage. Together, we are showcasing Abu Dhabi as a global meeting point and destination hub for elite sport, world-class competition and international audiences."

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said:

"Etihad is proud to partner with The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, an event that reflects the same standards of excellence and ambition that define our airline. Just as we connect Abu Dhabi to the world through extraordinary travel experiences, this partnership allows us to welcome the global racing community to our home. The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup represents the Emirate's vision for world-class sporting events, and as the national airline, it is our privilege to play a role in bringing this prestigious occasion to international audiences and showcasing the very best of what Abu Dhabi has to offer."

Beyond the race itself, the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup delivers a complete championship race-day experience, combining top-tier sporting action with refined hospitality, premium dining, and curated entertainment. The event demonstrates the evolution of Abu Dhabi Turf Club into a destination that seamlessly blends elite sport with an exceptional lifestyle experience.

Through this strategic partnership, Abu Dhabi Turf Club and Etihad, the award-winning national airline of the United Arab Emirates, position the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup as a symbol of progress and ambition. The event reflects Abu Dhabi's rising stature on the world thoroughbred circuit, delivering premium guest experiences where sport, culture, and heritage come together, setting a new benchmark for what elite racing events can achieve.

Flying Coral Reef - Passion for the Sea, Love for Flying


More news

terça-feira, 3 de fevereiro de 2026

ORDER - NEW AIRLINE - AirBorneo Chooses ATR to Modernise Rural Air Service Fleet in East Malaysia


AirBorneo and ATR today announced a strategic partnership to modernise Malaysia’s Rural Air Services (RAS) fleet, with AirBorneo confirming a firm order for eight ATR aircraft. The agreement comprises five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, with purchase rights for four additional aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2029.

This marks a significant milestone in AirBorneo’s transformation into Sarawak’s state-owned airline and its assumption of responsibility for the RAS network, a vital public service that connects remote and underserved communities across Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan.

Finalised in late 2025, the order supports AirBorneo’s long-term fleet renewal strategy following the acquisition of MASwings by the Sarawak government in 2025 and its subsequent rebranding as AirBorneo. The airline currently operates eight ATR 72-500 aircraft inherited from MASwings. The new-generation ATR –600 series will form the backbone of a more efficient and more resilient RAS operation for East Malaysia.

The introduction of the ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 aircraft will enable AirBorneo to enhance passenger experience, operational reliability and service capability. The aircraft feature advanced avionics, modern navigation technologies and improved cabin comfort. They are also equipped to support medical stretcher operations and are optimised for reliable operations across diverse regional and rural route environments in Borneo.

The mixed fleet gives AirBorneo greater flexibility to right-size capacity across diverse route profiles, while benefiting from the strong commonality of the ATR family. The agreement also includes four purchase rights, providing future growth options beyond the RAS network, including potential regional expansion within the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area.

“This partnership with ATR marks a major milestone in AirBorneo’s commitment to delivering reliable, safe and modern air services for the communities we serve,” said Megat Ardian, Chief Executive Officer of AirBorneo. “Our new ATR –600 fleet will significantly strengthen the Rural Air Services network by offering improved comfort, greater efficiency and the operational capability required for regional connectivity in East Malaysia. The ATR platform has consistently proven to be the most suitable aircraft for our operating environment, and upgrading to the latest –600 series ensures we can continue providing essential connectivity while preparing AirBorneo for long-term growth.”

“AirBorneo’s decision to invest in both the ATR 72-600 and ATR 42-600 reflects the strength and versatility of the ATR family and its suitability for demanding regional operations,” said Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. “The ATR 42-600, with its exceptional efficiency and low operating costs, is ideally suited for serving lower-density regional routes, while the ATR 72-600 provides additional capacity where it is needed. We are proud to partner with AirBorneo in strengthening reliable air connectivity across Borneo and the wider region.”

ATR

ORDER - Boeing and Air Cambodia Announce Airline's Largest Single-Aisle Order for up to 20 737 MAX Jets

Southeast Asian carrier places its first order with Boeing, boosting regional growth with the fuel-efficient 737-8
- The 737 MAX will be the first Boeing airplanes operated by a Cambodian airline



SINGAPORE, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire(opens in a new tab)/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Air Cambodia today announced the airline's largest single-aisle order for up to 20 737 MAX 
airplanes in an agreement unveiled at the Singapore Airshow. 

This marks the Southeast Asian carrier's first purchase of fuel-efficient Boeing airplanes.

New Boeing customer, Air Cambodia, orders up to 20 737 MAX jets that will fly in the airline’s new livery.

The airline finalized its firm order for 10 737-8 jets and opportunity for 10 more in December 2025. The order was previously unidentified on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website.

With the 737 MAX, Air Cambodia will renew and grow its fleet as air travel serves an increasing role in connecting people and places throughout the region. The airline will leverage the 737-8's capabilities, efficiency and passenger comfort features for its expanding network of high-demand routes across Asia.

"The 737-8 gives Air Cambodia the ideal combination of range, capacity and fuel efficiency to support our next phase of growth," said Dr. David Zhan, CEO of Air Cambodia. "This investment – Air Cambodia's largest narrowbody purchase – will let us launch direct services to important markets across North and Southeast Asia, and offer competitively priced travel for passengers, while creating local jobs and training opportunities that strengthen our communities."

The 737-8, which can fly up to 178 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km), is well-suited to support the airline's growing regional network. Air Cambodia will benefit from the airplane's flexible capacity and lower operating costs due to a 20% reduction in fuel use and emissions compared to the airplanes it replaces.

"We are proud to welcome Air Cambodia as our newest 737 MAX customer and look forward to partnering with them to introduce the versatile and reliable 737-8 to the Kingdom of Cambodia," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "We are committed to supporting the growth of aviation in Cambodia and throughout the region as Air Cambodia strengthens ties across Asia with these fuel-efficient airplanes."

Air Cambodia currently operates a fleet of six single-aisle and regional jets on domestic and international routes to Vietnam, India, Thailand, China, Japan and Hong Kong.

Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook forecasts Southeast Asian carriers will need nearly 5,000 new airplanes over the next twenty years, with single-aisle jets comprising more than 80% of deliveries.

SPECIAL COLOURS - Lufthansa flies in historic parable design II

XXL crane on blue Airbus A350 at Munich hub
Blue Airbus A350-900 at Munich hub

The Lufthansa anniversary fleet, which commemorates the company's founding anniversary with an XXL crane, has also grown: yesterday, Monday, a blue Airbus A350-900 with the registration D-AIXL landed in Munich. It had previously been freshly painted in Châteauroux, France. It is already the third aircraft in this extraordinary design: a Boeing 787-9 and an Airbus A320neo, both based in Frankfurt, are already flying in the 100-year design. At least one Airbus A380, one Boeing 747-8, and one Airbus A350-1000 will follow in the coming weeks.
LUFTHANSA
 

SPECIAL COLOURS - Lufthansa flies in historic parable design

Iconic appearance of a legendary super star on Airbus A321
Planned arrival of the aircraft today at around 2:45 p.m. at Frankfurt Airport
XXL crane on blue Airbus A350 at Munich hub

To mark the 100th anniversary of Lufthansa's founding, another specially painted aircraft is expected in Frankfurt today: an Airbus A321-200 was painted in Norwich, England, in the design of the legendary Lockheed Super Star and will fly from there to Germany's largest airport under flight number LH9898. The short- and medium-haul aircraft with the registration D-AISZ is expected to arrive in Frankfurt at around 2:45 p.m.

The Airbus A321 now bears the historic Lufthansa parable design. It was introduced in the mid-1950s and was inspired by the streamlined trend of the 1930s. It was intended to signal dynamism, speed, and a forward-looking approach. The parable line was not only visible on the aircraft's tail fins, but also on baggage tags, business documents, flight schedules, and even cigar bands.

Almost 70 years after its maiden flight for Lufthansa, this iconic parable design can once again be seen in the skies. In 1957, the Super Star joined the Lufthansa fleet. Its special feature: this aircraft was the first to offer Senator Class, the most exclusive way to travel at the time. Its main focus was the non-stop connection to New York across the North Atlantic. A restored Lockheed L-1649A Super Star will soon be on display alongside a Junkers Ju 52 in the new Lufthansa Group Hangar One. The conference and visitor center at Frankfurt Airport will open in April.



 Lufthansa

sexta-feira, 30 de janeiro de 2026

SPECIAL COLOURS - As the Official Airline of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, ITA Airways has introduced special liveries on two aircraft, the A320 Gustav Thoeni and A320neo Enrico Fabris, featuring illustrations of Olympic and Paralympic disciplines by illustrator Emiliano Ponzi.


These designs celebrate Italian winter sports legends and the games' spirit. 

Key Aspects of the 2026 Winter Olympics Initiative:

Special Livery: Two aircraft in the fleet are decorated with, or dedicated to, Winter Olympic and Paralympic themes and, in some cases, named after legends like Gustav Thöni and Enrico Fabris.

Design Elements: The designs represent various winter sports disciplines to celebrate the upcoming games.

Main Livery: The standard ITA Airways livery remains the Savoy Blue, a color chosen to represent the Italian national team, with a gold, white, and red logo.

Partnership Focus: The initiative highlights ITA's role as the official carrier and ambassador for Italian excellence in the 2026 Games. 

These special liveries, along with the "Inspired by Alitalia" branding appearing on some aircraft, aim to showcase Italian pride during the Winter Olympic season. 

 EI-DSY / Airbus A320-216

Photo:Radim Koblížka

AIRPORT - Kunming Changshui Int'l - ZPPP China

 







Photos:Ame_Jayzz