ORDER - Turkish Airlines to Expand Its Fleet with Boeing Order

Flying to more countries than any other airline worldwide, Turkish Airlines is taking another significant step forward in line with its strategic growth plans.

The national flag carrier has reached an agreement with Boeing, and will add a total of 75 wide-body Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft to its fleet between 2029 and 2034, consisting of 50 firm and 25 option orders within this scope.

In terms of engine procurement, Turkish Airlines is continuing negotiations with manufacturers Rolls-Royce and GE Aerospace. Within the scope of this strategic acquisition, negotiations between Turkish Airlines and Boeing regarding the purchase of a total of 150 aircraft, consisting of 100 firm and 50 option orders for the 737-8/10 MAX models have been completed. Subject to the successful conclusion of ongoing discussions with engine manufacturer CFM International, orders for the 737-8/10 MAX aircraft will be placed.

This agreement stands as a strong indicator of both the strategic partnership between Türkiye and the United States, as well as the long-standing cooperation between Turkish Airlines and Boeing. It also underscores the airline’s determination to maintain industry leadership and enhance operational efficiency.

As part of its “Vision 2033” which underscores airline’s 100th anniversary, Turkish Airlines aims to expand its fleet beyond 800 aircraft, while increasing the proportion of next-generation aircraft to 90% by 2033 and to 100% by 2035. This will further strengthen operational efficiency while sustaining an average annual growth rate of 6%.

On this new order, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat stated: “This landmark agreement represents much more than a fleet growth. It is a reflection of our leadership in the industry as well as our dedication to innovation and operational excellence. The addition of these advanced Boeing aircraft to our fleet will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also become a significant element supporting Turkish Airlines’ 2033 Vision of expanding our fleet to 800 aircraft.

With this agreement, while advancing our close collaboration with the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, we will continue to support the development of Türkiye’s aviation ecosystem. Moreover, by offering greater connectivity and more long-haul destinations, these aircraft will help attract more visitors to discover our country’s unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, thereby further strengthening Türkiye’s tourism sector. Turkish Airlines, with its unparalleled service approach and unrivalled flight network, will also continue to set the global benchmark in both efficiency and environmental responsibility.”

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope stated: “We are honored that Turkish Airlines has once again chosen the 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX to power its future growth. As a proud partner to Türkiye and the Turkish aviation industry for 80 years, we look forward to continuing our support of Turkish Airlines as they expand operations and deliver exceptional experiences to their passengers."

Turkish Airlines operates more than 200 Boeing aircraft, among them 787-9, 777, 737 MAX, Next-Generation 737 and 777 Freighters. With this agreement, the carrier will soon introduce the largest member of the 787 family, the 787-10. Addition of these new Dreamliners will reduce operating costs with their 25% fuel efficiency advantage while increasing both passenger and cargo capacity, thus supporting high-demand routes particularly across the United States, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

While the expansion of the 787 Dreamliner fleet will strengthen Turkish Airlines’ long-haul capabilities, the 737 MAX aircraft will enhance efficiency and flexibility on short- and medium-haul routes. At the same time, their advanced cargo capacity and operational versatility will further reinforce Istanbul’s role as a strategic hub for both passenger and cargo transport.

Turkish Airlines continues to lead the way in the aviation industry, consistently delivering unparalleled service and unforgettable experiences above the clouds to its guests. This acquisition reinforces the airline’s commitment to offering travellers the most comfortable travel options available.

Turkish Airlines Inc. 
Directorate of Communications

FLEET - China's Xiamen Airlines takes first A320-200N

Xiamen Airlines (MF, Xiamen) took delivery of its first A320-200N, B-32MY (msn 12708), on October 29. The aircraft is the first of twenty units from a direct order placed with Airbus in 2022.

According to ADS-B data, B-32MY departed Toulouse Blagnac on October 28, made a technical stop at Samarkand, and arrived at Xiamen the following day. It flew under the airline's 'CXA' callsign during the delivery flight.

The aircraft is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and configured with 180 all-economy seats.

Xiamen Airlines plans to deploy the A320-200N on domestic routes from November 20, initially operating between Xiamen and Hohhot, Jinan, Nanjing, and Zhengzhou.

In addition to its A320neo order, the airline has twenty-five A321-200NX and one B737-8 still pending delivery, according to the ch-aviation fleets module.

Xiamen Airlines' fleet currently comprises one A320-200N, seventeen A321-200NX, four B737-700s, twenty-seven B737-8s, 114 B737-800s, one B737-800(BCF), six B787-8s, and six B787-9s.

CH Aviation 

ORDER - Korean Air becomes new A350F customer

Korean Air has become a new customer for the world’s only all-new large freighter, following the conversion of seven of its existing A350-1000 passenger aircraft orders to the A350F.


Toulouse, France, 31 October 2025 - Korean Air has become a new customer for the world’s only all-new large freighter, following the conversion of seven of its existing A350-1000 passenger aircraft orders to the A350F.

“Korean Air is one of the world’s largest cargo operators,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “The decision to add the A350F to its fleet is therefore a very significant endorsement of the aircraft’s unique capabilities. The A350F will bring Korean Air the most efficient solution in the large freighter segment.”

The A350F features the largest main deck cargo door in the industry, with fuselage length and capacity optimised around the industry’s standard pallets and containers. Over 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials, resulting in a 46 tonne lighter take-off weight than the competing derivative. The A350F is also the only freighter aircraft that will fully meet ICAO’s enhanced CO₂ emissions standards, coming into effect in 2027.

Currently under development, the A350F can carry a payload of up to 111 tonnes and will fly up to 4,700 nautical miles / 8,700 kilometres. 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 40% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability.

At the end of September 2025, the latest generation widebody A350 Family had won 1,445 orders from 63 customers worldwide, including 65 for the all-new A350F from 10 cargo carriers and one lessor.

Korean Air has ordered a total of 33 A350 aircraft. This now comprises 20 A350-1000s, seven A350Fs and six A350-900s, of which the first two have already been delivered. In addition, the carrier has outstanding orders for 39 A321neo single aisle aircraft

 

Air India Completes First Phase Of Legacy Retrofit Programme; 104 A320 Family Aircraft Now Feature New Or Upgraded Cabin Interiors

First phase of retrofit programme included 27 legacy A320neo

3,024 weekly flights on 82 domestic and short-haul-international routes to offer new cabin interiors

Retrofitted legacy A320 in the new Air India livery

Air India today announced the successful completion of the retrofit programme for its legacy A320neo fleet, with the final of 27 aircraft returning to service with brand-new cabin interiors and in the airline’s vibrant new livery. With these, combined with 14 newly delivered A320neo aircraft and those integrated following the merger of Vistara into Air India, the airline now operates 104 A320 Family aircraft, featuring new or upgraded cabin interiors.

Commenced in September 2024 as part of a broader $400 million initiative to modernise Air India’s entire legacy fleet, the retrofit programme for all 27 legacy A320neo aircraft has been completed within a record one-year time frame.

Air India completes the retrofit of its legacy A320neo fleet

Now operating 3,024 flights per week with new or upgraded cabin interiors

With 104 A320 Family aircraft featuring new or upgraded interiors, Air India now operates 3,024 weekly flights across 82 domestic and short-haul international routes:

Domestic India routes: All flights on the busiest domestic routes such as Delhi-Mumbai, Delhi-Hyderabad, Delhi-Bengaluru, Delhi-Kolkata, Delhi-Chennai, Mumbai-Bengaluru, Mumbai-Hyderabad, Mumbai-Chennai and Mumbai-Kolkata, in addition to many others.

Short-haul international routes: All flights to and from Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Bali (Denpasar), Manila, Mauritius, Malé (Maldives), Riyadh, Jeddah, and most flights to and from Singapore.

Air-India-Refurbished-Business-Cabin

Air-India-Refurbished-Economy-Cabin

Premium Economy cabin in Air India's retrofitted A320 

Transformed cabin for enhanced comfort

The retrofit programme for the 27 A320neo involved equipping all aircraft with modern cabin interiors, each in a three-class cabin configuration, ensuring a consistent, world-class inflight experience. This includes the installation of:

3,564 New Economy Class Seats
648 New Premium Economy Class Seats
216 New Business Class Seats
450+ Metres Of Premium Leather And 15,000+ Metres Of Fabric
5,000+ Square Metres Of Carpet, Enhancing Cabin Aesthetics And Comfort
8,000+ Kg Of Paint, To Repaint The Legacy Aircraft In Air India’s Bold New Livery
All Seats Come With Usb-A And Usb-C Ports, Enabling Travellers To Keep Their Personal Electronic Devices Charged. This Also Helps Them In Accessing ‘Vista Stream’, Air India’s On-Board Inflight Entertainment Streaming Service, Which Offers Close To 900 Hours Of Global Cinematic Content On Personal Devices.

Air India has been consistently recording a high Net Promoter Score (NPS) of close to ranging between 45 and 50 points each month for its narrowbody aircraft operations.

Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said: “We continue to make good progress on the upgradation of our fleet. With over 100 of our A320 Family aircraft now featuring modern interiors, our guests will enjoy a superior travel experience across our extensive network.”

As we mark the end of the first phase of our narrowbody retrofit, we remain committed to elevating passenger experience and offering cabin products of global standards to our guests.”

 

A historic day in Chicago aviation: American celebrates 70 years of firsts at O’Hare

American Airlines joined the City of Chicago to celebrate the 70th anniversary of commercial air service at O’Hare today.

American brought history to life by reenacting O’Hare’s first passenger flight with the TWA heritage livery aircraft.

The airline reflects on seven decades of commitment to its ORD customers, team members and the broader Chicagoland community.

CHICAGO — On this day 70 years ago, American Airlines made Chicago aviation history when Trans World Airlines (TWA), which would later be acquired by American, took off from Chicago’s new airport — marking the first passenger flight to depart from O’Hare International Airport (ORD). A dedication ceremony drew 23,000 people to the airport to witness the historic departure of TWA Flight 94, bound for Paris — the first ceremonial flight that officially opened the airport for commercial service on Oct. 29, 1955.

American joined the City of Chicago today to bring history to life by returning the TWA heritage livery back to ORD to reenact that first passenger flight. Customers on board American Flight 2743, operated on a Boeing 737-800 TWA heritage livery aircraft, were treated to a surprise gate celebration and water cannon salute to mark the occasion. The airline’s Boeing 737-800 Astrojet heritage livery aircraft also passed through Chicago today — transporting ORD back to the 1950s for the milestone anniversary.

“For 70 years, American has grown alongside O’Hare, helping shape it into one of the world’s leading aviation hubs,” said American’s Senior Vice President of Global Airports, Contact Centers and Inflight Dining Operations Julie Rath. “We’re proud to stand with our partners today at the City of Chicago and Chicago Department of Aviation to honor the incredible history we share and celebrate the investments we’ve made together to elevate Chicago as a world-class destination. Fueled by our unwavering commitment to our Chicago team and customers, as well as the vibrant communities that keep the city thriving, we look forward to our future as the airline that sets the standard at ORD.”

American's Boeing 737-800 Astrojet heritage livery aircraft received a water cannon salute at ORD.

A Lockheed Constellation aircraft operated by TWA takes to the skies in the 1950s.

ORD’s scheduled passenger service began the day after the dedication ceremony — with American leading the way. On Oct. 30, 1955, Flight 715 from Detroit marked the airport’s first scheduled arrival, followed by the first scheduled departure — Flight 566 to Cincinnati.

American operated up to 16 daily flights to start in October 1955 — representing a 3,025% increase in departures as the airline looks ahead to more than 500 flights planned for summer 2026.

“From O’Hare’s very first passenger flight, American Airlines has been woven into the fabric of our city’s aviation legacy,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “As American continues to grow and invest in Chicago, we look forward to building on this partnership and shaping the next 70 years of progress together.”

Deeply rooted in Chicago
This milestone comes as American prepares to celebrate its centennial year — with the first American flight carrying U.S. mail from St. Louis to Chicago in 1926. That momentous day represents the birth of American Airlines and its deep roots in Chicago over nearly a century.

A throwback postcard shows American has long been proud of its Chicago connection.

A story in American’s internal news publication, Flagship News, from Nov. 3, 1955, highlighted the ORD opening.

Since 1955, American has invested billions of dollars into ORD and in the region — reaffirming its commitment to Chicago over the course of seven decades. That legacy was strengthened this year as American underwent a major expansion in Chicago — adding more than 20 new destinations to its ORD network in 2025.

American’s 9,500 ORD-based team members are the driving force behind its success. O’Hare is the airline’s third-largest hub based on departing flights and serves as its Midwest connection point, with service to more than 160 destinations in 17 countries.

American’s ORD timeline
1955: TWA, which would later be acquired by American, marks the first passenger flight to depart from ORD with ceremonial Flight 94 bound for Paris.
1955: American is the first airline to arrive and depart from the airport on its first day of scheduled passenger service.
1959: American becomes the first airline to operate jets at ORD when it flew a Boeing 707 from Chicago to San Francisco.
1971: American introduces the world’s first scheduled Douglas DC-10 service between Chicago and Los Angeles.
1982: American establishes a hub at ORD, the airline’s second hub in its network.
1986: American installs the iconic “Hall of Flags” in the H/K Concourse in Terminal 3.
1990: American completes a renovation of Terminal 3 and the famous scene from Home Alone films in the “Hall of Flags.”
2000: American Eagle launches all jet service at ORD.
2015: American deploys the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner at ORD.
2017: American opens its ORD Flagship® lounge.
2018: American opens five new gates known as the L-Stinger, the first new gates at ORD in 25 years.
2019: American unveils its ORD Hangar 2, the largest of its kind in the world.
2025: American becomes the only airline to offer premium options on every flight from ORD.
2025: American adds 24 new destinations from ORD just this year, including Chicago’s only nonstop service to Naples, Italy.

American Airlines

ROUTES - Icelandair celebrates inaugural flight to Miami

Icelandair has started scheduled service to Miami, Florida, marking an exciting milestone in the airline’s route network. Icelandair will operate three weekly flights to Miami—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—until 2 May 2026. The route is served by the airline’s new Airbus A321LR aircraft, with a flight time of approximately eight hours.

Miami becomes Icelandair’s 19th destination in North America and the second in Florida, complementing the long-standing Orlando service. The city is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife.

Bogi Nils Bogason, Icelandair President and CEO:

“We are delighted to launch flights to Miami and offer our passengers a new and exciting destination in Florida. Our new Airbus A321LR aircraft enable us to add exciting new destinations, and Miami is a perfect example. This route also creates convenient connections for travelers from Miami to our 38 destinations in Europe via Iceland—and vice versa.”

ICELANDAIR

ANA Group Announces Restructuring of its Multi-Brand Strategy

Leveraging AirJapan's Expertise and Resources to Expand the ANA Brand

 TOKYO, Oct. 30, 2025 - While planning its next medium-term strategy, ANA Group has decided to restructure its brand strategy. This decision is aimed at maximizing the entire Group's profitability and competitiveness while flexibly responding to recent changes in the business environment.

Since 2024, ANA Group has been working to capture global passenger demand through a multi-brand strategy using three brands.

・The ANA brand has focused on expanding its profitability by capturing robust international demand, launching routes such as Haneda-Stockholm, Milan, and Istanbul from the end of 2024.

・The Peach brand has expanded its network, primarily on Kansai-Asia routes, driven by strong leisure and inbound demand.

・The AirJapan brand has steadily captured inbound demand and other opportunities by launching routes such as Narita-Bangkok, Narita-Seoul, and Narita-Singapore since 2024.

Meanwhile, the global environment has seen changes such as the prolonged war in Ukraine and aircraft delivery delays, with concerns that these issues will continue.

In addition, ANA Group is managing the AOG (※1) situation regarding its Boeing 787 aircraft. To optimize the allocation of the Group's resources, ANA Group decided to suspend the AirJapan brand. Its aircraft and human resources will be consolidated into the ANA brand's operations to expand its international business.

Furthermore, AirJapan, the operating company that has managed flights for both the ANA and AirJapan brands, will continue to contribute to ANA Group's international business by operating ANA brand international flights, leveraging its high standard of operational quality.

With this change, ANA Group will transition to a dual-brand strategy composed of the ANA and Peach brands starting in fiscal year 2026, strengthening the overall Group's profitability and competitiveness.

Future operations under the AirJapan brand will be as follows.

Final Operation Date

• 

※1 AOG＝Aircraft On the Ground

※2 Subject to relevant regulatory/government approvals.

ANA Group will continue to work together as one to provide our customers with a safe, secure, and comfortable air travel experience.

[Future Structure of International Operating Companies and Brands]

FLEET - Samaritan’s Purse introduces first B767-300F

Samaritan's Purse (NSP, Boone, NC) has introduced its first B767-300F to service, with a relief flight between Greensboro Piedmont Triad International and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion carrying supplies for families in Gaza, the company said in a statement.

The 19.7-year-old aircraft, N367SP (msn 33510), first arrived at Samaritan’s Purse earlier in the year, purchased directly from AFG Aviation Ireland, ch-aviation reported.

Its initial flight between Greensboro and Tel Aviv took place between October 25 and 27, via Bangor International, Glasgow Prestwick, and Larnaca, ADS-B data shows.

The fleet of the Christian organisation comprises one B757-200(PCF), one B767-300F, one DC-8-72(CF) (to be retired after the introduction of N367SP), one Falcon 900EX, one G550, one SkyCourier 408 (with two more on order) one Bell 407, one Bell 412, two CN-212-200s, one Cessna 172, one Cessna 182E, one Cessna A185F, one Cessna 208, five Cessna 208Bs, two Daher Kodiak 100s, one Daher Kodiak 200, one DHC-3, one King Air B200, two King Air B350s, and one Piper PA-18.

ch-aviation reached out to Samaritan’s Purse for comment, but it was not immediately available.

CH Aviation / Photo: Samaritan´s Purse

 

ROUTES - American Airlines unveils first international route for the game-changing Airbus A321XLR

American will launch new seasonal service between New York (JFK) and Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI), in March 2026.

With seven additional trans-Atlantic routes for 2026, American is among the fastest-growing airlines from the U.S. to Europe and the Middle East.

American is the first U.S. airline to receive the Airbus A321XLR, which offers premium Flagship Suite® and Premium Economy seats.

FORT WORTH, Texas — American Airlines is expanding international access with new seasonal service from New York (JFK) to Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI), starting March 2026. With convenient flights to Scotland’s awe-inspiring landscapes and majestic castles straight out of a fairy tale, Edinburgh has become a favorite destination for travelers.

“After a successful summer in Edinburgh, American is excited to offer a second route to give travelers more access to one of their favorite destinations,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning. “With the game-changing Airbus A321XLR now in our fleet, we could not be more excited to connect the Big Apple with Auld Reekie. This is the right aircraft to open this route and with an elevated premium experience for travelers to enjoy.”

Tickets for American’s new route will go on sale starting Nov. 3 on aa.com or through American’s mobile app.

Get ready for EDI

A vibrant city with access to the Scottish Highlands that has inspired writers throughout history, Edinburgh is a popular tourist destination for travelers looking to get a little more literary flair out of their European vacation. A new book from one of the city’s many bookstores is the perfect souvenir.

Modern golf has its roots in Scotland, and today, golfers have much to look forward to with more than 550 golf courses in the region. And, as a growing destination for business traffic, American’s daily flights enable convenient schedule options for travelers blending leisure and business.

American launched seasonal service between Philadelphia (PHL) and EDI this year, with plans to start the season on this route earlier next year. Flights from JFK will be complementary to service between PHL and EDI. For travelers desiring even more flexibility to choose the perfect itinerary or to visit more of Europe, American’s Atlantic Joint Business partner British Airways offers nonstop flights from EDI to England, Italy and Spain.

JFK to EDI will be American’s seventh new trans-Atlantic route for summer 2026. In August, American announced five new routes to Europe, including new international service to Budapest, Hungary (BUD) and Prague (PRG).

Departure airport	Arrival airport	Season start	Season end	Aircraft
New York (JFK)	Edinburgh (EDI)	March 8, 2026	Oct. 24, 2026	Airbus A321XLR
Philadelphia (PHL)	EDI	March 28, 2026	Oct. 24, 2026	Boeing 787-8

American is the first U.S. airline to introduce the A321XLR. Featuring 20 Flagship Suite® seats, 12 Premium Economy seats and 123 Main Cabin seats, this aircraft offers an elevated inflight experience. All customers flying on this aircraft will have access to high-speed Wi-Fi and complimentary seatback entertainment featuring Bluetooth connectivity.

The A321XLR offers customers the ability to upgrade their travel experience on the ride to Scotland. The Flagship Suite® seats offer passengers lie-flat seating, direct aisle access, wireless charging and more. Premium Economy seats feature enhanced winged headrests, calf and footrests and wireless charging.

American will offer hot meals and complimentary beverages in each cabin on trans-Atlantic flights. Inflight menus rotate monthly and are curated to bring more flavor on board. Additional details about onboard food offerings will be available in the coming months.

As American takes delivery of additional A321XLR aircraft, the airline plans to use the aircraft on additional transcontinental and international routes. The A321XLR will debut on flights between JFK and Los Angeles (LAX) starting Dec. 18, and American will continue operating this aircraft on this route through March 2026.

American Airlines

Emirates reduces unexpected severe turbulence with new initiatives

Airline goes beyond conventional methods, with a commitment to investing in multiple data sources that ensure global coverage and improved turbulence prediction accuracy

Optimal turbulence forecasting available using complementary technologies like IATA Turbulence Aware, Lido mPilot from Lufthansa Systems and SkyPath ensures more customer comfort and safety

Dubai, UAE, 29 October, 2025: As turbulence becomes an increasingly serious challenge for airlines due to its rising frequency and severity, Emirates has taken a proactive, data-driven approach to address the occasional inconvenience it may cause by planning smoother flights.

The airline has proactively adopted a diverse, multi-layered strategy leveraging multiple information sources to deliver real-time, accurate turbulence data. This approach has helped reduce unexpected severe turbulence encounters on flights across its network with new initiatives launched last year that have helped enhance the onboard experience for passengers and crew.

Captain Hassan Alhammadi, Divisional Senior Vice President Flight Operations at Emirates said: "We recognise that turbulence remains an ongoing challenge that cannot be completely eliminated, but we're committed to doing everything possible to minimise unexpected severe turbulence encounters through working with partners who share our vision of using advanced technologies and adopting AI to enhance operations. While we are still in the early stages, we are already seeing validation of the potential benefits these systems can deliver.

While we cannot promise turbulence-free flights, these initiatives have contributed to a significant reduction in unexpected severe turbulence incidents over the past year, helping make journeys safer and more comfortable for our customers.

Our multi-layer approach with weather prediction and technology partners and active participation in the IATA Turbulence Aware programme also enables us to contribute valuable data and insights to the broader aviation industry as we collectively work to address this growing meteorological challenge."

Emirates’ current weather detection setup brings together SkyPath, Lido mPilot from Lufthansa Systems and IATA Turbulence Aware as a complementary configuration—delivering breakthrough innovation through AI, machine learning, real-time crowd-sourced turbulence data, as well as pilot reports:

SkyPath: Emirates partnered with SkyPath last year to develop and improve AI and machine learning-based weather predictions that identify turbulence areas conventional methods miss. SkyPath’s platform integrates real-time turbulence reports from thousands of aircraft with cutting-edge analytics, using advanced AI and machine learning to generate accurate predictions, even for areas with no current flight activity or challenging ‘clear air’ turbulence.

SkyPath gathers information from various data sources: Eddy Dissipation Rate (EDR) data for universal turbulence measurements, Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADSB) transponder data, and SkyPath’s patented iPad accelerometer technology that translates device movement into precise turbulence measurements that provide pilots with actionable information. This multi-source, AI-driven approach ensures global coverage and industry-leading prediction accuracy.

Lido mPilot Weather Predictions: Emirates’ long-standing partnership with Lufthansa Systems delivers a customised mobile navigational charting application tailored to the airline’s operational requirements. Through partnerships with sources like the German Weather Service, Lido mPilot provides high-accuracy weather reporting, live cloud and convection data, plus turbulence and icing predictions for enhanced pilot situational awareness. Emirates continuously collaborates with the Lido team to improve weather data quality and global coverage.

IATA Turbulence Aware: Since joining IATA’s Turbulence Aware Programme last year, Emirates has been actively contributing and consuming real-time turbulence data from its extensive network across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Australia. This data feeds into IATA’s global turbulence platform, which aggregates inputs from participating airlines worldwide to provide a comprehensive, real-time view of atmospheric conditions.

By integrating these insights into its electronic flight bag charting application, Emirates equips its pilots with live, in-situ turbulence visualisations. This enables more informed decision-making in the cockpit, allowing crews to anticipate and avoid turbulent areas, ultimately enhancing passenger comfort, operational safety, and fuel efficiency.

 

SPECIAL LIVERY - China Airlines debuts a Zootopia 2 themed livery on its B777-300ER

China Airlines is about to launch a Disney-themed B777-300 in Taiwan, with designs inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios' upcoming animated film, Zootopia 2.

The special aircraft will fly on routes linking Taipei, Taoyuan, with Los Angeles, Ontario, Bangkok, Tokyo, Narita, and Osaka.

NEW AIRLINE / ROUTES / Sun PhuQuoc Airways plans its scheduled launch on 01 November 2025.

Domestic flights from Da Nang and Phu Quoc, operated with A321neo and A321 aircraft.

Photo: Sun PhuQuoc

ORDER - Vietjet finalises order for 100 Airbus A321neo aircraft

Vietjet, Vietnam’s largest private airline, has successfully converted its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in June, into a firm order for 100 A321neo aircraft.

London, United Kingdom, 30 October 2025 - Vietjet, Vietnam’s largest private airline, has converted its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in June, into a firm order for 100 A321neo aircraft.

The finalisation of this contract underscores Vietjet’s commitment to its network expansion and fleet modernisation strategy, bringing its total orders for the A321neo to 280 aircraft.

This landmark agreement follows closely on Vietjet’s earlier order of 20 A330neo widebody aircraft in May, further solidifying its long-term strategic partnership with Airbus.

Vietjet Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao said: “This is not merely a commercial contract, but a symbol of trust, aspiration, and a shared vision for sustainable development and global connectivity.”

“The A321neo’s proven efficiency and flexibility make it the ideal platform to support Vietjet’s ambitious expansion,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “Combined with the A330neo, this fleet will deliver the best economics and seamless commonality across operations, hallmarks of the Airbus product family.”

The A321neo, the largest member of Airbus’ best-selling A320neo Family, offers long range and exceptional performance. By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo provides a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximising passenger comfort.

At the end of September 2025, more than 7,100 A321neo aircraft have been ordered by nearly 100 customers across the globe.

The A321neo is able to operate with up to 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.

 

Ramping up A320 Family production

How Airbus is expanding its operations to meet growing demand

Responding to strong demand from airlines and lessors, Airbus is ramping up all its commercial aircraft programmes. The company’s industrial capability is growing fast, around the world – including two new A320 Family final assembly lines, in China and the US. The largest member of that family, the A321neo, is at the heart of this story.

Fun fact: an Airbus A320 Family aircraft takes off or lands somewhere in the world every two seconds. The programme has notched up nearly 20,000 orders. Moreover, in October 2025, it became the most delivered airliner type in history. The widebody market is also in robust shape, stoking demand for the Airbus A330neo and A350 Family. As supply chain delays have begun to ease post-pandemic, Airbus is executing an historic production ramp-up.

The A321neo, a firm favourite

Airbus is increasing production of all its civil aircraft programmes. The ramp-up focuses principally on reaching an output of 75 A320 Family aircraft every month in 2027, while maintaining the on-time, on-quality delivery customers expect.

This ‘rate 75’ is civil aerospace’s highest-ever production level, and it’s uniting Airbus, its affiliates and the entire supply chain in a mammoth push to reach it.

Airbus’ current backlog includes over 7,000 A320neo Family aircraft. The big story behind rate 75 is the runaway success of the A321neo in its standard, long range (LR) and extra long range (XLR) configurations. The largest member of the A320 Family has rapidly become an industry favourite, accounting for around two-thirds of the Family order book. Its popularity in terms of sales volume and speed is the dominant factor in Airbus’ decision to increase narrowbody production.

The sun never sets on A320 Family production

To produce 75 A320 Family aircraft each month, Airbus has strategically grown the programme’s global industrial footprint and setup over recent years. The final quarter of 2025 is pivotal to this expansion.

The inauguration in October 2025 of a second final assembly line (FAL) in Mobile, Alabama, USA, doubles A320 Family production capacity in the United States.

Coming just a few days later, the inauguration of the second A320 Family FAL in Tianjin, China, underscores Airbus' commitment to that country’s aviation market. It’s projected to become the world's largest by the early 2030s.  

These new FALs are an indispensable addition to Airbus’ industrial setup, adding flexibility and resilience to A320 Family production.

Notable features of the new Tianjin line include a range of advanced manufacturing technologies, as well as solar panels, reclaimed water and geothermal energy. Beyond the second line, for its part Airbus’ Mobile facility has undergone a major extension. This includes new double-bay hangars for A320 production, quad-bay hangars for the A220, additional paint shops, a new distribution centre and expanded delivery and welcome centres.

The expansion across continents confirms that making the A320 Family is an endeavour on which the sun never sets. Over 20 Airbus and affiliate sites participate in its production, on top of a total of ten FALs, located in Tianjin (China), Toulouse (France), Mobile (USA), and Hamburg (Germany). This reach, coupled with a committed global supply chain, is central to making rate 75 a reality.

Alongside the FAL boost, Airbus is in the midst of transforming its customer line and delivery centre activities, to bring customers a smoother, more consistent hand-over experience.

Home-nation investment – and bringing work packages in-house

In Europe, investment in Hamburg’s four assembly lines, the A320 Family’s historical home alongside Toulouse, makes them fully equipped to produce the A321. This includes the LR and XLR's often complex, customised cabins.

A highly-automated assembly hall for the A321XLR’s range-extending rear centre fuel tank was inaugurated at Airbus’ Augsburg, Germany, facility in September 2025. What’s more, a second A320 Family FAL at Toulouse’s Lagardère facility – the repurposed former A380 line – is due for completion by mid-2026.

Lastly, Airbus is strengthening its industrial system by acquiring Spirit AeroSystems' operations for the A350, A220 and A320 Families – a core aerostructures activity. The acquisition will welcome over 4,000 skilled, experienced employees to Team Airbus, further increasing the company’s aerostructure activities together with subsidiaries Airbus Atlantic and Airbus Aerostructures.

With a total backlog of over 8,600 aircraft, of which the A320neo Family represents the lion's share, Airbus' expanded industrial system is poised to continue leading commercial aviation.

 

SPECIAL LIVERY - SOUTHWEST AIRLINES / B737-8 MAX / N8977G / MSN: 42675 - New "Louisiana One"

 Photo: Hongming Zheng

SPECIAL LIVERY - HAINAN AIRLINES / B737-84P / B-1141 - he livery is for Mixue,which is known for its drinks.

Photo: Laurence Liu
 

AIR HAIFA / ATR 72-600 / 4X-IHA

Ton Jochems
 

ORDER - Air China Cargo plans order for up to 10 Airbus A350F freighters

Air China Cargo is set to expand its all-cargo fleet with plans to order up to 10 Airbus A350F aircraft,

In a filing to the Shenzhen Stock Exchange on 28 October, the airline confirmed it had signed an agreement with Airbus covering six firm orders and four options, valued at $4.65 billion at list prices. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2031.

Image: AIRBUS 

ROUTES - Lufthansa Group: In summer 2026, with over 14,000 weekly connections to 330 destinations in around 100 countries

New hub connections for Group Airlines
Numerous capacity increases planned

Planning your next summer vacation as the gloomy season begins? Passengers can now do that with Lufthansa Group Airlines flights. The 2026 summer flights are now available for booking, featuring new intercontinental and European destinations as well as numerous frequency increases for Lufthansa Airlines, Discover Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, Brussels Airlines, Edelweiss, and ITA Airways.

The Lufthansa Group airlines now offer their guests over 14,000 weekly connections to 330 destinations in around 100 countries via their hubs in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, and Italy.

New at Lufthansa Airlines from Frankfurt and Munich:

A stable and reliable flight schedule with an increase in the number of connections to attractive destinations is the focus of Lufthansa Airlines for summer 2026. Next summer, Lufthansa will fly from Frankfurt to St. Louis and Cape Town five times a week, to Rio de Janeiro six times a week, to Raleigh/Durham and Nairobi daily, and to Washington fourteen times a week.


Due to continuing high demand for Scandinavian destinations, Lufthansa will be adding Trondheim (Norway) to its flight schedule from Frankfurt four times a week for the first time from May 1, 2026. Supplemented by the service in Munich, Lufthansa will then fly at least once a day from Germany to Norway's third-largest city. Other Northern European destinations such as Bergen, Stavanger, and others will also be expanded.


In Munich, the summer season will be extended: two long-haul destinations added in winter 2025/26 will also continue to be operated next summer. Sao Paulo in South America will be included in the summer flight schedule with three weekly flights, as well as Johannesburg in South Africa. All destinations will be served by the Airbus A350-900, one of the most modern aircraft in the world.


Due to the high cost burden for flights to and from Germany, Lufthansa Airlines will reduce more than 50 frequencies on feeder routes from the 2026 summer flight schedule, for example between Munich and Cologne, Düsseldorf and Berlin, or between Frankfurt and Leipzig or Nuremberg. Other connections, such as from Munich to Münster/Osnabrück or Dresden, are under review.


In addition, the connections from Frankfurt to Toulouse and from Munich to Tallinn and Oviedo will be discontinued next spring for economic reasons. Tallinn and Oviedo will still be accessible to Lufthansa guests from Frankfurt, and Toulouse via Munich.

New at SWISS:

From March 29, 2026, SWISS will offer flights from Zurich to Poznan, Poland's fifth-largest city, for the first time. During the summer months of July and August, SWISS will also add the Croatian port city of Rijeka on Kvarner Bay to its schedule. In addition, the airline is increasing frequencies from Zurich on various European routes, including Alicante, Valencia, Manchester, Montpellier, Tirana, Budapest, and Venice. On the long-haul route, SWISS will offer daily flights to Tokyo in April, May, and October; during the rest of the season, there will be flights to the Japanese capital will five times a week.

New at Austrian Airlines:

Austrian Airlines' 2026 summer flight schedule is diverse. Greece, Spain, and Italy are traditionally at the top of the popularity scale for travelers – with some new destinations being added and frequencies increased. And a success story continues – thanks to strong demand last summer, the “coolcation” destinations (such as Sylt, Edinburgh, and the Lofoten Islands) will be resumed and even expanded in 2026.

New at ITA Airways:

As a small preview of its 2026 summer flight schedule, ITA Airways announces its return to London Heathrow with the resumption of the Rome Fiumicino–London Heathrow route, which will be operated twice daily. ITA Airways' detailed summer schedule will be published at a later date.

In addition, during the peak summer season, direct flights will be offered from Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate to popular vacation destinations in Greece, Spain, and the Italian islands, providing summer vacationers with more travel options.

Throughout the summer season, ITA Airways will continue to work hard to expand connections from its Rome Fiumicino hub, while offering Italian hospitality, style, innovation, and connectivity to meet the changing needs of travelers worldwide.

 

New at Brussels Airlines:

Brussels Airlines will add Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) to its route network. It is the Belgian airline's eighteenth destination in sub-Saharan Africa and strengthens Brussels Airlines' position as an Africa expert within the Lufthansa Group. From June 2026, Kilimanjaro will be connected twice a week. In addition, Brussels Airlines will increase flights to Freetown (Sierra Leone) from five to six flights per week and add an additional flight on Thursdays.

Within its European route network, Brussels Airlines is increasing capacity on existing routes, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

New at Edelweiss:

Edelweiss is expanding its long-haul offering from Zurich in summer 2026. From June, there will be twice-weekly flights to Windhoek in Namibia. The airline is also increasing the frequency of flights to Seattle, Punta Cana, and Tampa and extending its seasonal flights to Halifax, Cape Town, and Colombo. Edelweiss is thus responding to the growing demand for diverse and attractive holiday destinations.

New at Discover Airlines:

Discover Airlines is expanding its short-haul services and will fly to Shannon in Ireland and Brindisi in Italy for the first time. Both routes will operate twice weekly from Frankfurt.

The island of Cyprus is also included in Discover Airlines' flight schedule for the first time. From the end of March, there will be daily flights from Frankfurt and Munich to the port city of Larnaca – one of the oldest cities in the world. There will be two flights a day from Frankfurt on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, as well as two flights a day from Munich on Fridays and Sundays. These routes were previously offered by Lufthansa.

On the long-haul route, the connection from Frankfurt to the Seychelles, which was originally only planned for the winter season, will now be offered year-round. In addition, there will be an additional fifth flight from Frankfurt to Las Vegas every Saturday.
Lufthansa

FLEET - Canada’s Air Inuit takes delivery of first B737-800(C)

Air Inuit (3H, Kuujjuaq) has taken delivery of its first combi-configured B737-800(C), it announced on social media.

C-FTUW (msn 40852) was ferried from Kelowna, where it was being converted by KF Aerospace, to Montréal Trudeau on October 9, 2025, ADS-B data shows. It is the first of three B737-800(C)s it expects to operate. The second one, C-FTUY (msn 40853), has not yet been delivered.

The carrier expects to introduce C-FTUW to scheduled commercial service during the second half of November, chief executive Christian Busch told ch-aviation. The aircraft has a configuration of 90 seats and five pallets for cargo.

ch-aviation fleet data shows Air Inuit’s fleet currently comprises four B737-200Cs, one B737-300(QC), one B737-800 (under conversion), one B737-800(C), one B737-800(SF), seven DHC-6-300s, four DHC-8-100s, three DHC-8-300s, four DHC-8-300(F)s, and six DHC-8-Q300s.

CH Aviation / Photo: Air Inuit

 

AIRPORT - Lisboa-Humberto Delgado-Portugal

Flyingphotos
 

AIRPORT - Zurich Airport-Switzerland

Ronald Vermeulen