FLEET - SAS plans to bring in 13 aircraft in fiscal 2024 as part of its fleet renewal — one E195-E2 and 12 A320neo from 31 October 2023

For fiscal 2025, two A350-900s and six A320neos are expected for delivery. Future orders include up to 150-seat aircraft and long-haul aircraft. In the meantime, four A321s are being phased out, while in 2024 its long-haul wet-lease partner will end as will the A320s on wet lease. ATR and CRJ wet leases will continue for the long-term.

Photo: FlyingPhotos

 

FLEET - KlasJet plans to expand its B737-800 fleet to 40 aircraft by 2028, and is looking to add seven B737-800s to its existing fleet

In 2024, the carrier plans to induct five more B737-800s and then grow the fleet by 10 aircraft each year thereafter.

Photo: Ton Jochems - AYT

FLEET - LATAM Cargo is removing three older B767-300Fs and replacing them with younger B767-300BCF

The plan is to operate 19 B767Fs by the end of 2024, which includes two pending B767-300BCF conversions.

Photo: Duncan Stewart - LAX

Fly Baghdad to launch services from Baghdad to Berlin and Dusseldorf, as well as from Erbil to Berlin, Copenhagen and Dusseldorf — all beginning by the end of December 2023 with A320 operated by Dan Air.

The Baghdad – Latakia route will also be launched with B737-700.
 

Photo: Ton Jochems

Stunning images filmed from the air to celebrate Air France’s 90th anniversary and the Patrouille de France’s 70th anniversary Share

To round off a year of celebrations marking Air France’s 90th and the Patrouille de France’s 70th anniversaries, the two jewels of the French aviation industry are honoured in a special film featuring them together in spectacular aerial footage.

At the end of September 2023, the company’s 22nd Airbus A350-900 named “Les Sables-d’Olonne” made its ferry flight from the manufacturer’s assembly site in Toulouse to the Air France global hub at Paris-Charles de Gaulle. For the occasion, the pilots of the Patrouille de France Alphajet operating a positioning flight in preparation for an airshow in the Occitanie region flew alongside the aircraft as part of an air display choreographed to perfection.

The operation was filmed at an altitude of over 2,500 metres above the Camargue. Meticulously prepared by the crews, this special mission dubbed “Athos A350” involved eleven aircraft of various sizes and operating at different speeds flying together to create exceptional images.

“A month of preparation and thorough cooperation was required to plan this 45-minute flight down to the smallest detail, guaranteeing the highest level of safety. This groundwork prepared jointly by the Patrouille de France team, the Air France crew and the pilot of the camera-mounted aircraft was carried out in line with the highest standards”.

Eric Prévot, event manager & ATHOS A350 mission leader

Directed by Eric Magnan (Airborne Films), a specialist in aerial footage, the film was shot from a French TBM 700 DAHER camera-mounted aircraft incorporating a leading-edge gyro-stabilized camera system. The original music by composer Augustin Saldjian was performed by the Prague philharmonic orchestra.

A real gift to all aviation enthusiasts, this film is a tribute to the pioneering spirit of the entire French aviation industry. It also highlights its long tradition of innovation, recognized the world over for its expertise and excellence in both the civil and military sectors. Produced with the support of the French Air and Space Force and Airbus, it also bears witness to the long-standing passion and daily commitment of staff from Air France and the entire aviation sector to making France’s influence felt around the globe.

About the Air France A350-900

The aircraft named “Les Sables d’Olonne” is the 22nd Airbus A350-900 to join the Air France fleet. With an order placed for 99 aircraft in the different versions (passenger and cargo), the Air France-KLM Group expects to be the world’s leading operator of this latest-generation aircraft, designed and assembled by Airbus teams in Toulouse, in the years ahead. Reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 25%, the Airbus A350-900 is the jewel of the Air France long-haul fleet. Its noise footprint is also reduced by 40%.

About the Patrouille de France

The Patrouille de France is an ambassador for the French Air and Space Force. A unit made up of pilots, mechanics and administrative staff from operational units, the Patrouille de France display team showcase their expertise to the general public at annual air shows. In 2023, the Patrouille de France celebrated its 70th anniversary.

 AIR FRANCE

FLEET - Finnair buys six previously leased A321s

Finnair (AY, Helsinki Vantaa) has closed its purchase of six A321-200s that it was previously leasing from Singapore-based lessor BOC Aviation, spending “in excess of” EUR200 million euros (USD219 million) on the transaction, whose “positive impact on both profit before tax and cashflow” will exceed EUR20 million (USD2.19 million) per year over the coming years, the Finnish flag carrier said in a statement released on December 19.

It has been able to make the acquisition of the Airbus narrowbodies “thanks to the strengthened balance sheet and cash funds” that resulted from the rights issue it executed last month, which brought it funding amounting to around EUR558.2 million (USD611.5 million).

According to the ch-aviation fleets advanced module, Finnair now owns seven of its fifteen A321-200s amid an 80-strong fleet, 37 of which are owned.

The majority state-owned carrier said it had also managed to repay an additional tranche of EUR120 million (USD131.4 million) of its EUR600 million (USD657.2 million) pension premium loan in December in addition to a previously planned EUR100 million (USD109.5 million) instalment. Including interest, the payoff totalled about EUR230 million (USD252 million), leaving the remaining loan amount at EUR280 million (USD307 million), which is due to be repaid by the end of May 2025.

The airline pointed out that in connection with the rights issue announcement in October, it had “supplemented its financial targets, which were based on the assumption that, for example, the company’s cash-to-sales ratio would remain at 30% over time. As a result of the aircraft purchases and the loan repayment, the cash-to-sales ratio is close to but still exceeds the target of 30%.”

CH Aviation

Photo: Flyingphotos

FLEET - JSX goes electric

JSX announced a big commitment to a more sustainable future by placing orders for various hybrid-electric aircraft. In total, the carrier is committing to an impressive 332 aircraft, sourced from three different manufacturers.
With Swedish manufacturer Heart Aerospace, JSX signed a firm order for 50 ES-30s, with options on another 50. The ES-30 is a 30-seater aircraft, able to fly 200 km fully electric or up to 800 km when flying hybrid with 25 passengers.

French manufacturer Aura Aero received a firm order for 50 ERA-aircraft and also 100 options. The ERA is a 19-seat aircraft which is expected to enter commercial service in 2028.
Lastly, JSX ordered 32 Electra eSTOLs, with options on another 50. This aircraft is built by US-company Electra and will be a nine-seat aircraft. STOL stands for Short Take Off and Landing and the eSTOL can take-off after a 45 meter run.
With its new hybrid-electric aircraft JSX plans to serve more destinations, utilizing existing infrastructure. Deliveries of the first new planes are expected to happen in 2028.
Today, JSX has a fleet of sixteen Embraer ERJ135s, two ERJ140s, and 61 ERJ145s. It uses these aircraft offering semi-private scheduled charter flights. It's headquartered at Dallas (TX) but also has hubs at Burbank (CA), Las Vegas (NV), Opa Locka (FL), and Phoenix (AZ).

Scramble

Illustrations by JSX.

 

FLEET - Danish Sunclass Airlines takes delivery of its first Airbus A321neo

Hamburg, 20 December 2023 - Danish leisure airline Sunclass has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo aircraft as part of its strategy to further improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The aircraft was delivered from the Airbus site in Hamburg, Germany.

By operating the A330neo and A321neo in parallel, Sunclass Airlines will become an all Airbus operator and benefit from the manufacturer’s unique commonality. The A321neo will provide Sunclass customers with a spacious and comfortable cabin experience.

The A321neo is the longest-fuselage member of Airbus’ best-selling, single-aisle A320 Family, comfortably flying as many as 244 passengers up to 4,700nm/8,700km in range. Featuring the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the A320neo Family offers at least 20 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 as well as a 50 percent noise reduction compared to previous generation aircraft, thanks to incorporating the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets for enhanced aerodynamics and performance. At the end of November 2023, the A321neo had received over 5,600 orders from more than 100 customers worldwide.

 

SPECIAL COLORS - StarFlyer / A320-214 / JA27MC / MSN: 8964 - "SEVENTEEN ‘FOLLOW’ THE CITY JET" special c/s

Seventeen is a South Korean boy band formed by Pledis Entertainment. The group consists of thirteen members: S.Coups, Jeonghan, Joshua, Jun, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Woozi, DK, Mingyu, The8, Seungkwan, Vernon, and Dino.

Photo: N.tomo
 

FLY AVIATION MODELS - A SPECIAL OFFER FOR YOU! Buy items and earn points that give discounts - PORTES GRATIS PARA PORTUGAL

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Models / Postcards / Key 

Aviões à escala  / Postais / Porta-Chaves, etc - Portes Gratis para Portugal

AIRPORT - EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg - 12/2023

Paul Bannwarth
 

FLEET - LATAM announces orders for five additional Boeing 787, ranking the airline group as the largest operators of Boeing 787 in Latin America

With this order, together with the already scheduled deliveries of this model in the upcoming years, LATAM group will reach a total of 46 Boeing 787 airplanes, increasing its investment in one of the most modern and efficient fleets in South America.
Additionally, LATAM group has decided to equip the next Boeing 787’s it receives with GEnx engines by GE Aerospace, becoming the first airline group in South America to have these engines known for their high performance and efficiency.
LATAM group announces an order for five more Boeing 787 Dreamliners to continue advancing its commitment to be more efficient and sustainable. The purchase ranks the South American airline group as the largest operators of Dreamliners in Latin America.
With this order, together with the already scheduled deliveries of this model in the upcoming years, LATAM group will reach a total of 46 Boeing 787 airplanes. Representing an increase of 20 airplanes of this model compared to the pre-pandemic fleet, this investment reinforces the group’s commitment to have one of the most modern and efficient fleets in South America.
Additionally, LATAM group has decided to equip the next Boeing 787s it receives with GEnx engines by GE Aerospace, becoming the first airline in South America to have these engines known for their high performance and efficiency.

“These actions are fully aligned with the commitment to sustainability and brings LATAM closer to the goal of becoming a carbon neutral group by 2050”, said Ramiro Alfonsín, LATAM Airlines Group S.A CFO. “The incorporation of GEnx engines is a decision that provides greater flexibility and options for the expansion of the long-range fleet. Furthermore, increasing the Boeing 787 fleet size will allow the group to operate with two different engine models, known for their cutting-edge technology and reduced environmental impact, in a complementary way.”

"The 787 Dreamliner is perfectly suited to support LATAM group’s sustainability and operations goals with its exceptional performance, flexible route capability and enhanced passenger comfort”, said Mike Wilson, vice president of Latin America and Caribbean Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to partnering with LATAM group as it connects Latin America with the world and makes a difference in the communities it serves.”

The GEnx engine family has more than 50 million flight hours since entry into service in 2011 and is the fastest-selling, high-thrust engine in GE history with nearly 3,000 engines in service and on backlog, including spares, according to data from its manufacturer.

“GE Aerospace is pleased to welcome the LATAM Airlines Group to the GEnx engine family,” said Kathy MacKenzie, Vice President, GE Commercial Programs for GE Aerospace. “As LATAM group continues to expand and grow its 787 Dreamliner fleet, we look forward to supporting their continued success every step of the way.”

The 787 Dreamliner family delivers superior fuel efficiency, keeping airline customers competitive. The Boeing 787 uses 25% less fuel and creates 25% fewer emissions than the airplanes they replace. The Boeing 787-9 can fly 300 passengers 7,565 nautical miles (14,010km), according to data from its manufacturer.

The Boeing 787 is designed for comfort, offering a spacious cabin, adjustable LED lighting, the largest windows, improved air quality, smooth ride technology, and ample storage for more enjoyable flying experience, according to data from its manufacturer.

Currently, the airline group has 332 aircraft, 56 Boeing passenger aircraft (models 767, 777 and 787) and 256 Airbus aircraft (models A319, A320, A320neo, A321 y A321neo). In addition LATAM Cargo has 20 cargo aircraft.

Photo: FlyingphotosMagazineNews

 

FLEET - Lufthansa Group to Buy up to 100 737 MAX Jets in First Boeing Single-Aisle Order in Nearly 30 Years

- Europe's largest airline group to incorporate the 737 MAX as it seeks to grow and diversify its short to medium-haul fleet

- Order reintroduces Boeing 737 into Lufthansa Group; last 737-300 delivery in 1995

- 737 MAX to support Lufthansa Group's goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2050 with introduction of new, highly efficient airplanes


SEATTLE, Dec. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the Lufthansa Group today announced a landmark 737 MAX order for up to 100 jets that will see Europe's largest airline group restore the Boeing 737 family into its fleet. The commitment includes a firm order for 40 737-8 airplanes with 60 options.

"It is a good strategic decision for the Lufthansa Group to order Boeing 737 aircraft again for the first time since 1995," said Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG. "Around 60 years ago, Lufthansa was co-developer and launch customer of this globally successful model. With the new modern, quiet, economical and efficient 737-8 aircraft, we are making progress both in modernizing our short- and medium-haul fleet and in achieving our carbon CO2 reduction targets."

Boeing's ongoing commitment to support the sustainability goals of its airline partners is reflected in the 737 MAX's efficient design. The 737 MAX reduces CO2 emissions by 20% and has a 50% smaller noise footprint compared to older generation airplanes.

"Our relationship with the Lufthansa Group has led to a number of industry changing achievements and we are delighted to see the 737 return to an original launch customer's fleet," said Stan Deal, president and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The Lufthansa Group has set bold targets to decarbonize its operations. The 737-8 will help the Lufthansa Group meet those sustainability targets with significant improvements in fuel use, emissions, and community noise impacts, all while reducing costs for the airline."

Lufthansa launched the Boeing 737 in 1967, taking delivery of the first of 146 737s until its final delivery of a 737-300 in 1995. The airline retired its last 737 in 2016 as it started its group wide fleet modernization program.

The Lufthansa Group has placed a series of wide-body orders in recent years to accelerate replacement of older airplanes. Its current backlog include firm orders for 34 787 Dreamliners, seven 777-8 Freighters and 20 777-9 airplanes.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

Boeing Media Relations

FLEET - easyJet orders a further 157 A320neo Family aircraft

easyJet has confirmed a firm order for 157 additional A320neo Family aircraft following shareholder approval. The firm order comprises 56 A320neo and 101 A321neo aircraft and also includes the upsizing of an existing order for 35 A320neo into the larger A321neo. The agreement is part of easyJet’s fleet renewal and upgauging plan and is also bringing substantial sustainability improvements to its business.

“We are very pleased to be able to confirm this significant order which not only enables easyJet to replace its older aircraft with more efficient aircraft, a core component of our net zero roadmap, but also provides us ability for disciplined growth, including the significant opportunity that upgauging brings, “commented Johan Lundgren, CEO of easyJet. “With this order easyJet will be able to continue to cement its leading position at Europe’s primary airports and so we look forward to working in partnership with Airbus in the years to come.”

“Airbus is delighted to be accompanying easyJet in its fleet growth and renewal. Its Airbus fleet allows easyJet to differentiate its offering in its competitive market with the most state-of-the-art, modern and comfortable aircraft,” said Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International at Airbus. “easyJet and Airbus both are strong advocates for the aviation sector to de-carbonise. This significant investment into the most fuel efficient and SAF-capable aircraft is a testimony to our joint commitment in this respect. Bravo easyJet, and thank you!”

The A320neo Family is the world’s most popular single aisle having won over 18,000 orders from nearly 140 customers in all markets. The A321neo is the largest member of Airbus’ A320neo Family, offering unparalleled range and performance. By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo brings a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO2 reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximizing passenger comfort in the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky. As with all Airbus aircraft, the entire A320 Family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims for all its aircraft to be capable of operating with up to 100% SAF by 2030.

To date over 5,600 A321neos have been ordered by more than 100 customers across the globe.

Photo: KPB

 

FLEET - Lufthansa Group orders additional 40 Airbus A220s

Lufthansa Group’s Supervisory Board decided to place a firm order for an additional 40 A220-300s for its short and medium-haul fleet. The A220 has been in service with the Group since 2016, when SWISS put the first aircraft into scheduled service.

“With today's order for 40 additional Airbus A220s, we are continuing our unique partnership with Airbus,” said Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG. “Just a few months ago, as the largest airline customer, we received our 600th aircraft from Airbus, and we look forward to taking delivery of number 700. Our customers are looking forward to these additional modern, economical, and fuel-efficient aircraft.”

"The Lufthansa Group was one of the first customers for the A220 and has successfully operated the aircraft in its SWISS route network ever since. We are delighted by this testimony of confidence from our long-standing partner and customer," said Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International. “As the only clean sheet design aircraft and specifically designed for the 100-150 seat market the A220 is the most efficient solution in its category to support Lufthansa Group meeting its exciting airline development and sustainability objectives.”

With its latest order Lufthansa reinforces its long standing relationship with Airbus. Since the A300 in the 1970’s, Lufthansa Group has operated all members of the Airbus product family, from the A220, A320-Family, A330 / A340, A350 and the A380.

The latest state-of-the-art A220-300 is the larger sibling of the successful A220 Family, carrying between 120 to 150 passengers on flights of up to 3,400 nautical miles (6,300 km). The aircraft offers 25% lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. It also has the largest cabin, seats and windows in its class, ensuring superior comfort.




As with all Airbus aircraft, the A220 is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). All Airbus commercial, military aircraft and helicopters will be capable of being operated with up to 100% SAF by 2030.

By the end of November, Airbus won 849 orders from 31 customers for the A220, of which 303 have been delivered. The A220 is already in successful service with 18 airlines worldwide on 1,350+ routes.

 

NEW AIRLINE - Thailand's Pattaya Airways targets 4Q24 start

The CEO of the Pattaya Group, owners of Pattaya Airways (Utapao), says the startup intends to start flying in the fourth quarter of 2024.

"We see a rising demand for air transportation services as the post-Covid situation stabilises," Tosaporn Asunee said during a speech at an event in Bangkok last week. "The industry is bouncing back, and the demand is increasing rapidly. Recognising this opportunity for expansion, we decided to venture into the airline business with Pattaya Airways, primarily targeting international customers in the Asian region, with plans to expand into other regions in the foreseeable future."

As previously reported in ch-aviation, Pattaya Airways secured its air operator's license (AOL) in September. The AOL is a precursor to receiving an air operator's certificate. Pattaya intends to dry lease two ATR72-500(F)s for launch, adding three more ATR - Avions de Transport Régional aircraft between 2026-2028 to meet growing demand for e-commerce uplift. To date, the Pattaya Group is best known as a ground-handling business.

CH Aviation

Photos: Pattaya