quinta-feira, 27 de março de 2025

SPECIAL LIVERY - Air Canada Cargo / B767-333(ER)(BDSF) / C-GHLU - Air Transport World Cargo Operator Of The Year

K.C.Wong
 

FLEET - KOREAN AIR LINES / A321 NX / F-WWAU msn 12353


 Photo: Alain Charpentier

FLEET - TURKISH AIRLINES / A350-900 / F-WZGV msn 725



 Photo: Alain Charpentier

FLEET - TAAG Angola Airlines reintroduces restored B777-200ER

TAAG Angola Airlines (DT, Luanda 4 De Fevereiro) has confirmed it reintroduced its B777-200ER D2-TED (msn 34565) on the route between Luanda 4 De Fevereiro in Angola and São Paulo Guarulhos in Brazil on March 21.

An airline spokesman confirmed Angolan news reports that the aircraft was grounded in 2020 and remained out of service until March 2025 following restoration by Angolan technicians as part of TAAG's fleet recovery plan.

The restoration involved interior and seat refurbishment and the recovery of critical components, all carried out by local engineers and maintenance staff, the Ver Angola news site reported.

ADS-B data shows the Angolan flag carrier had been deploying B777-300ER D2-TEK (msn 43254) on the São Paulo route. This aircraft has been rescheduled to operate between Luanda and Lisbon.

According to ch-aviation fleets data, TAAG's current long-haul fleet includes three B777-200ERs, five B777-300ERs, and one B787-9. It has two B777-300s, one more B787-9, and two B787-10s on order.
CH Aviation
Photo: Flyingphotos Magazine

 

FLEET - Lao Airlines to put COMAC C909 jet into service

The C909 regional jet (formerly ARJ21) will be operated by Lao Airlines.

Lao told Reuters it was due to receive its first aircraft in March.

Lao Airlines currently operates a fleet of four Airbus A320s and seven ATR 72 turboprops. In addition to domestic flights, LAO also operates flights to countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China and South Korea.

 Photo: COMAC

ROUTES - Helvetic Airways Operates Largest Ever Jet into London City Airport

Today marks the landing of the first commercial flight of the Embraer E195-E2 at London City Airport, operated by Helvetic Airways on behalf of Swiss International Air Lines. This is now the largest jet from London City Airport.

London, March 26, 2025 | Helvetic Airways is making history at London City Airport for the second time in three and a half years: After the Swiss regional airline became the world's first commercial airline to land an Embraer E190-E2 at London City Airport in autumn 2021. Today, 26 March 2025, Helvetic Airways' Embraer E195-E2 was the first aircraft of this type to touch down on the runway of London City Airport as part of a regular scheduled flight. With a length of 41.5 metres and a total of 134 seats, the E195-E2 is now the largest aircraft flying from London City Airport. The E195-E2 also has the lowest fuel consumption per seat of all aircraft operating at London City.

“Due to its steep approach, London City Airport places high demands on both the aircraft and the specially trained cockpit crews. Helvetic Airways has both, and we are proud to be the first airline to bring the larger E195-E2 to London City Airport following its premiere with the Embraer E190-E2 in 2021. This makes us the only airline in the world to land at London City with three different Embraer aircraft, allowing us to offer our wet-lease customers the greatest possible flexibility”, said Tobias Pogorevc, CEO of Helvetic Airways, in London during the celebrations for the maiden flight. The flight, which was operated by Helvetic Airways on behalf of Swiss International Air Lines on a wet-lease basis, took off from Zurich at 11.30 a.m. and landed at London City Airport shortly after midday.

Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the first commercial flight of the E195-E2 aircraft to London City, which demonstrates our commitment to working with our airlines and manufacturers to introduce cleaner, quieter, new generation aircraft to the airport.

“The E195-E2 opens up a range of new and exciting destinations for our passengers, and by using quieter and cleaner aircraft this enables us to grow and meet our passenger cap without increasing the number of flight movements.”

“London City, where 75% of flights are on Embraer aircraft, is a special place for us. It’s great to celebrate another milestone in the E2 story with our partners from Helvetic Airways and London City”, said Marie-Louise Philippe, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing, Head of Region Europe and Central Asia, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Offering 30% lower CO2 emissions per seat and a 63% smaller noise footprint compared to the previous generation aircraft, the E195-E2 is the largest, most efficient, and most sustainable aircraft certified for LCY.”

Philippe added, “Embraer has developed the world’s first automatic takeoff system for aircraft called E2TS – Embraer Enhanced Takeoff System. When certified, E2TS will increase the range of the E195-E2, specifically from LCY, from 3200 km to 4000 km. Bringing new destinations such as Istanbul, Gran Canaria, Casablanca, Athens, and Cairo and within range of London City for the first time.*
EMBRAER

quarta-feira, 26 de março de 2025

SPECIAL LIVERY - Brussels Airlines unveils "Atomium": the newest Belgian Icon and brings yet another little piece of Belgium in the air. March 26, 2025

Brussels, March 26, 2025 - Brussels Airlines, in proud collaboration with the Atomium, is thrilled to introduce its newest Belgian Icon dedicated to the renowned landmark. After a contest launched in August last year, the winning design of architect Thomas Faes (Faes Architecture) was brought to life. The “Atomium” celebrates the nation's spirit of creativity, innovation, and pride.

The OO-SNM (Airbus 320), arrived in Brussels early this morning from the painting facility and is set to embark on its first flight to Prague tomorrow.

At a special event held in Brussels Airlines’ Maintenance & Engineering hangar, media, guests, and employees gathered to witness the grand reveal. "Atomium" pays tribute to one of Belgium’s most recognized symbols.

The "Atomium" proudly joins the prestigious lineup of Belgian Icons, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to showcasing local heritage worldwide and bringing little pieces of Belgium in the air.

From contest to soaring reality
Last August, Brussels Airlines launched a contest, inviting Belgians and residents to submit designs capturing the essence of the country. The response was impressive with over 900 creative entries highlighting Belgium’s diverse heritage: from cycling and Art Nouveau to comic book characters and, of course, the Atomium. After a rigorous selection process, 15 finalists were chosen, and a public vote of over 50,000 participants narrowed them down to the top five.
A distinguished jury - including singer Sandra Kim, musician Alex Callier, artist Philippe Geluck, and designer Gabrielle Szwarcenberg - ultimately selected the Atomium design by Belgian architect Thomas Faes (Faes Architecture). His vision encapsulated the iconic building’s historical significance and timeless appeal. Even as a child, Thomas was fascinated by the structure, an admiration that inspired his technical design approach.

“There are many parallels between an architectural project and the design of an aircraft livery. Both involve a series of stages to complete and constraints to consider. What stands out most to me of these last months, is the human journey behind it all. However, I will also always remember the first 3D simulation - that moment when you can truly say that it has the desired impact. Equally unforgettable is seeing the aircraft in real life, experiencing that magical transition from concept to reality. I am incredibly proud of the result, which blends elegance with modernity.”
- Thomas Faes, designer of the Belgian Icon “Atomium”

Thomas Faes
“Though the final decision wasn’t easy, looking back, choosing Thomas Faes’ design is the perfect fit. The Atomium has long been woven into our identity, from the nine red dots in our logo or on our aircraft’s tails to the lining of the blazers or the scarves in our uniforms. I am very happy to see our newest member of the Belgian Icon’s family joining our fleet for the coming five years.”
- Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO, Brussels Airlines
Bringing the Atomium to the skies
To transform Thomas Faes’ (Faes Architecture) concept into reality, Brussels Airlines’ marketing team refined his design to meet all technical specifications. The painting process required over 400 liters of paint and took about 2,400 hours from start to finish. Renowned XXL airbrush artist André Eisele, who has worked on all eight previous Belgian Icons, once again created a stunning masterpiece.
OO-SNM’s interior is also remarkable, guiding passengers through the structure’s history. From original sketches and historical photos of its 1958 construction to present-day imagery, the design tells the story of Belgium’s iconic monument.

"This collaboration between the Atomium and Brussels Airlines represents a perfect union of two Belgian icons that have long served as ambassadors for our country's innovation and creativity. Just as the Atomium has welcomed visitors from around the world since 1958, Brussels Airlines connects Belgium to global destinations daily. Seeing our beloved monument soaring through the skies is not only a stunning visual tribute but also a powerful symbol of our shared mission to showcase the best of Belgium internationally. We are incredibly proud to see the Atomium take flight and bring a piece of Belgium to every corner of the world Brussels Airlines reaches."
- Julie Almau Gonzalez, General Director, the Atomium
First maiden flight 
The aircraft's first commercial flight is scheduled for March 27, 2025, departing for Prague (SN2809) at 9.25am.
Discover the 'making of' Atomium:

Some facts about "Atomium"
​- Around 400 liters of paint were used for the design.
​- The painting process took an estimated 2,400 hours from start to finish.


About Brussels Airlines’ Belgian Icons
​The idea behind the Belgian Icons is to introduce the best of Belgium to the world. The Belgian Icons are known all over the world and make flying even more fun.


Brussels Airlines’ very first Belgian Icon, Rackham, was introduced in 2015 and pays tribute to Tintin, the world-famous Belgian comic. In November 2022, the new version of Trident - the aircraft dedicated to the Belgian Red Devils and Red Flames, the Belgian male and female national football teams - was presented. In April 2024, the second edition of Amare was revealed, which is a collaboration with the world-famous music festival Tomorrowland. Atomium is the fourth Belgian Icon in the airline’s fleet.


These are the previous Belgian Icons:
​- Magritte was part of the fleet between 2016 and 2021. The aircraft was a homage to René Magritte, the Belgian surrealistic painter.
​- Aerosmurf smurfed the fleet between 2018 and 2023. This plane took shape during a design contest organized by Brussels Airlines.
​- Flemish painter Pieter Bruegel the Elder, a Belgian Icon from the 16th century, traveled the world between 2019 and 2023.





























 

EXECUTIVE AIRCRAFT - Cristiano Ronaldo's new plane: Global Jet Luxembourg / LX-GOL / Bombardier BD-700-1A10 Global Express XRS



Flyingphotos Magazine
 

SPECIAL LIVERY - American Airlines recognizes Medal of Honor recipients ahead of National Medal of Honor Museum opening



American Airlines proudly showcased its ongoing commitment to the recipients of the Medal of Honor with a mission to honor our nation's greatest heroes with the Valor Tour.
Ahead of the National Medal of Honor Museum’s opening, American Airlines recognized those who have received our nation’s highest award for military valor in combat with the Valor Tour on American’s Flagship Valor. Flagship Valor is an Airbus A321 aircraft with a special wrap that serves as a flying tribute to recipients of the Medal of Honor.
The Valor Tour flew six Medal of Honor recipients and special guests on a chartered flight from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to two military bases — Fort Cavazos, Texas, and Joint Base Andrews in Maryland — before returning to DFW for the museum’s opening festivities.
While at the bases, recipients received a hero’s welcome, participated in a re-enlistment ceremony, spoke with active-duty service members, educated them on the values of the medal and promoted the museum’s official opening. The flight was a key moment in the days leading up to the museum’s grand opening, where distinguished guests participated in several activities throughout the week.

The Flagship Valor is not just an aircraft but a tribute to the nation’s heroes. On the eve of the groundbreaking for the National Medal of Honor Museum in 2022, American unveiled Flagship Valor as part of its deep commitment to supporting America’s service members.
Over the past three years, Flagship Valor has flown across the country raising awareness for the Medal of Honor and honoring those who have earned this distinguished award.
As the museum opens its doors today on National Medal of Honor Day, American proudly reaffirms its dedication to supporting the men and women who have served the country.
American Airlines

Airbus advances key technologies for next-generation single-aisle aircraft


Toulouse, 25 March 2025 - During the 2025 Airbus Summit, Airbus provided an update on its roadmap to pioneer the future of commercial aviation in the decades to come. The Company outlined potential technology bricks to prepare a next-generation single-aisle aircraft that could enter service in the second half of the 2030s, as well as its revised roadmap to mature the technologies associated with hydrogen-powered flight.


Airbus provided more details regarding the key technology building blocks that could enable the entry into service of a next-generation single-aisle aircraft with an expected 20-30% increase in fuel efficiency compared with the current generation, as well as the capability to fly with up to 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Airbus also unveiled new design concepts that showcase the different configurations being studied for this future aircraft, highlighting the various potential solutions that are being explored in order to achieve this major leap forward in aircraft efficiency, and support the aviation sector’s roadmap towards net-zero emissions in 2050.



Technologies include more efficient engines, including disruptive open fan designs; long foldable wings allowing for significant aerodynamic gains; next-generation batteries to enable hybrid architectures where electricity is increasingly used to support propulsive and non-propulsive functions aboard the aircraft’ and lightweight materials and integrated systems for a connected aircraft.

Airbus Head of Future Programmes Bruno Fichefeux says, “Every second, an Airbus aircraft takes off – connecting people, cargo and business around the world. We have the most advanced aircraft portfolio in the market and the A321XLR is at the very forefront of today’s single-aisle aircraft technology. Now we are taking the best of what we’ve done and preparing another jump to make our single-aisle aircraft even better and pioneer the future of flight, when the time is right."

Airbus Head of R&T Karim Mokaddem adds, “Airbus teams are working relentlessly towards the key decisions that will ultimately finalise the choices of the aircraft’s engine type, wing design and additional innovations once their maturity is demonstrated."

Each of these technology building blocks will play a key role in enabling a new generation of commercial aircraft that will deliver step change improvements in all domains for efficiency and productivity and bring a considerable contribution to the decarbonisation of air travel in the decades to come."

The progress made on these technologies was discussed at the Airbus Summit 2025 on 24 and 25 March, where Airbus brought together industry players and visionaries to discuss the future of sustainable aerospace.

Learn more about Airbus’ next-generation single aisle, read Soaring towards future aircraft.

AIRBUS

ORDER - Korean Air Finalizes Landmark Boeing Widebody Order

- Airline’s record deal driven by post-merger transformation

- South Korea’s flag carrier becomes the newest 777X customer

SEATTLE, Mar. 26, 2025 – Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Korean Air today finalized a landmark order for up to 50 widebody airplanes, including 20 777-9s, 20 787-10s and options for 10 additional 787 Dreamliners. This order marks the airline’s largest deal with Boeing and will play an important role as it continues to integrate operations with Asiana Airlines. 

The agreement, announced as a commitment at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow, will be added to Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ Orders and Deliveries website.

“For over 50 years, Korean Air and Boeing have built a relationship based on trust and mutual growth. Today, we further strengthen our historic relationship with this landmark order,” said Walter Cho, chairman and CEO of Korean Air and Hanjin Group. “We look forward to continuing our journey with Boeing as our trusted partner in innovation and excellence.”

Korean Air is transforming into one of the world’s largest airlines by capacity following its merger with Asiana Airlines last year. The carrier recently unveiled its new branding and livery on a 787-10 as an initial step to operate under a single entity. As part of these efforts, the company is renewing its fleet with new fuel-efficient widebody jets to add capacity to its global network.

"This record order is the culmination of our more than 50-year partnership with Korean Air and demonstrates the strength of Boeing’s market-leading widebody family,” said Dan Schull, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Northeast Asia. “The combination of economic efficiency and range of the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will position Korean Air for continued growth and long-term success.”

BOEING

 

ROUTES - ASIANA AIRLINES NW25 BARCELONA FREQUENCY CHANGES – 25MAR25

Photo: Duncan Stewart

Asiana Airlines this week filed initial changes to Seoul Incheon – Barcelona route for Northern winter 2025/26 season, where the airline will continue to operate 5 weekly flights, on/after 26OCT25, instead of initially filed 3 weekly.

A350-900 aircraft operates this route.

OZ511 ICN1115 – 1750BCN 359 x13
OZ512 BCN1935 – 1600+1ICN 359 x13



 

ROUTES - DELTA NS25 339-SEATER A350 OPERATIONS – 23MAR25


 Photo: Duncan Stewart

Delta in recent schedule update revised planned 339-seater A350-900 operations during Northern summer 2025 season. Latest plan as of 23MAR25 includes the following. All dates listed below are based on US departures.


Atlanta – Amsterdam DL072/073 1 daily (6 weekly from 07MAY25, 4-5 weekly from 21JUN25. The 339-seater is now scheduled until 06OCT25, instead of 18AUG25)
Atlanta – Barcelona 04MAY25 – 12JUN25
Atlanta – Lima 1 daily (6 weekly from 07MAY25. The 339-seater is now scheduled until 04OCT25, instead of 25OCT25)
Atlanta – Los Angeles 08APR25, 10APR25, 12APR25, 14APR25 (LAX departure 07APR25, 09APR25, 11APR25, 13APR25). The airline continues to list 1 daily flight 20DEC25 – 05JAN26
Atlanta – Orlando 13APR25
Atlanta – Rome Fiumicino DL214/215 1 daily. Frequency variations by the 339-seater throughout the season, until 05OCT25, instead of 01JUL25
Atlanta – Santiago de Chile 1 daily until 31JUL25. DL has extended the 339-seater into August/September, scheduled on 05AUG25, 19AUG25, 09SEP25, 30SEP25
Los Angeles – Paris Charles de Gaulle 31MAR25 – 18APR25 (alternating days)

FLLET / ROUTES - Timor-Leste's Aero Dili starts A319 operations


Aero Dili (8G, Dili) has introduced an A319-100 into revenue passenger service, operating a flight between Dili and Oecussi on March 24. A special ceremony was held at Dili airport commemorating the start of the A319 operations.

"This milestone represents our commitment to advancing air connectivity, enhancing passenger experience, and supporting the growth of Timor-Leste’s aviation sector," the airline said on its Facebook page.

4W-AAO (msn 2825) is Aero Dili's only A319 and was delivered to the airline in January 2025. The 18.74-year-old aircraft was previously operated by China Eastern Airlines and is currently dry-leased from AFG Aviation Ireland, an SPV for Aircraft Finance Germany. The twinjet is powered by CFM International CFM56 engines.

Aero Dili is the only scheduled passenger airline based in Timor-Leste. It operates flights from Dili to Denpasar, Oecussi, Singapore Changi, and recently introduced a new service to Xiamen, its first route to China. Aero Dili also plans to start flights to Darwin and Melbourne Airport.

Apart from 4W-AAO, the carrier operates one A320-200, ch-aviation fleets data shows.

CH Aviation

 

NEW LIVERY - Anima Wings / A220-300 / YR-CHR


Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport
Photo: Ton Jochems

segunda-feira, 24 de março de 2025

SPECIAL LIVERY - DELTA AIR LINES / A350-900 / F-WZNK msn 720 / "100 Years cs"


Alain Charpentier 
 

ROUTES - JAL Expands Cargo Services with New Narita-Chicago Route Using Freighters and Passenger Aircraft



 Strengthening Asia-North America Transport with KALITTA and JAL -

Tokyo, JAPAN – Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; President: Mitsuko Tottori, hereinafter "JAL") and KALITTA Air (Headquarters: Ypsilanti, Michigan, USA; CEO: Conrad Kalitta, hereinafter "KALITTA") are pleased to announce the commencement of a codeshare agreement for regular cargo flights on the Narita-Chicago route starting from Saturday, May 10, 2025. 


JAL resumed operations of its own freighter in February 2024 for the first time in 13 years, expanding the air cargo transportation network along with the cargo space on passenger flights. The new codeshare agreement with KALITTA will enable JAL to meet the continued strong demand for cargo transportation between Asia and North America by providing stable and flexible air cargo services with the addition of large cargo aircraft from another company.

Additionally, the passenger flight on the Narita-Chicago route will be launched on May 31, 2025, further enhancing the transportation network between Japan and North America, contributing to the further promotion of both passenger and cargo transportation.

■Flight Schedule

Period: April 4 to 26: Cargo Space will be provided on flights operated by KALITTA


Period: From May 10: Codeshare Operations with KALITTA will Commence

The plans and schedules are subject to application and approval by the relevant authorities.
The operating company will be KALITTA Air (operating code: K4).
The flight will stop at Anchorage Airport for refueling.
Operations will be conducted using the 747-400F in May.
*Reference: Launch of Passenger Flights on Narita-Chicago Route (From May 31)


From September 1 to October 25, 2025, arrival at Chicago will be at 15:45, and departure from Chicago will be at 12:10.

JAL aims to contribute to solving social issues and achieve sustainable growth as a logistics infrastructure by expanding the air transportation network and responding to the demand for high-value-added cargo such as high-tech, chemicals, and express items with high-quality cargo handling, which is a strength of JALCARGO.

■Aircraft Overview

Aircraft Type: Boeing 777-300ERSF

Payload: 224,900lbs (102,000kg)

The latest Boeing 777-300ERSF aircraft owned by KALITTA can carry more cargo than the conventional 777F and operates with better fuel-efficiency than the 747-400F.

Upper Cargo Compartment:33 Palettes






*Reference: Boeing 747-400F
Payload: 249,100lbs (112,990kg)
Upper Cargo Compartment: 30 Palettes
Lower Cargo Compartment: 9 Palettes, 4 Containers
About KALITTA Air
Established in 2000 and headquartered in Ypsilanti, Michigan in the United States. KALITTA Air operates an impressive fleet of Boeing 747-400F and Boeing 777 freighter aircraft. The airline offers a comprehensive range of air cargo services, including long-term charter, ACMI programs, and on-demand charters, with a broad geographical reach. Serving a diverse customer base of multi-national freight forwarders and agents, KALITTA Air ensures reliable and efficient transportation solutions globally. KALITTA has also conducted codeshare operations with JAL in the past, including in 2019 and 2023.

JAL

FLEET - INDIAN AIR FORCE / B737-7HI BBJ / K 5013




Photo: Flying Photos





 

AIRLINE - SkyAlps in trouble

Italian carrier SkyAlps is in trouble after the Italian civil aviation authority (ENAC) grounded seven of its eight DHC-8-400s. It did so after conducting an audit. Next to that, newspaper Corriere della Sera is reporting that the Italian Ministry of Justice has decided to open a criminal investigation into the airline.

The ENAC audit found irregularities with the maintenance of the fleet. According to the audit, regular scheduled maintenance wasn't carried out and records were falsified. Although SkyAlps says it has outsourced the maintenance, the airline is still overall responsible, hence the decision for the grounding.

As a result of the grounding, SkyAlps has only one aircraft operational and has been scrambling to wet-lease capacity to cover for the other aircraft.

In total, the airline has fourteen DHC-8-400s. However, six of these have not yet entered service. Ten are on the Maltese register, the remaining four on the Austrian one.
Photo by SkyAlps.
Scramble

ROUTES - ASIANA AIRLINES NS25 EUROPE SERVICE REDUCTIONS


 Photo: Duncan Stewart - LAX

Asiana Airlines this week filed service reductions to Europe, as the airline reduces service to Frankfurt, Paris and Rome. Planned frequency changes as follow.

Seoul Incheon – Frankfurt eff 30APR25 Reduce from 7 to 4 weekly (5 from 01OCT25)


Seoul Incheon – Paris Charles de Gaulle eff 15MAY25 Reduce from 6 to 5 weekly

Seoul Incheon – Rome Fiumicino eff 25APR25 Reduce from 5 to 4 weekly


ORDER - FedEx also firms B777F-options

Next to announcing firming-up options on the ATR72-600F, FedEx has also announced it has decided to firm-up options for eight additional B777Fs. All eight should be delivered by 2027. With this latest order, FedEx now has open orders with Boeing for ten B777Fs.

At the same time, the company has decided to postpone the retirement of its McDonnell-Douglas MD-11Fs from 2028 to 2032, which is good news for lovers of the trijet.

Currently, the FedEx-fleet is made-up of 15 ATR42Fs, 42 ATR72Fs, 65 Airbus A300-600Fs, one B737-400F, eight B737-800Fs, 87 B757-200Fs, 143 B767-300Fs, 58 B777Fs, and 25 MD-11Fs.

Photo by FedEx.



sexta-feira, 21 de março de 2025

NEW LIVERY - First B777-300 with new livery ( HL8008 )

Photo: Mike-Tango-Whiskey
 

KOREAN AIR 3Q25 LONDON HEATHROW AIRCRAFT CHANGES

Korean Air in the third quarter of 2025 schedules aircraft changes on Seoul Incheon – London Heathrow route, as the carrier once again schedules 747-8I aircraft for 5-week period. From 25JUL25 to 30AUG25, 4 of 7 weekly flights to be served by the 747-8I, instead of 777-300ER.

KE907 ICN1055 – 1720LHR 74H x247
KE907 ICN1055 – 1720LHR 77W 247

KE908 LHR1935 – 1615+1ICN 74H x247
KE908 LHR1935 – 1615+1ICN 77W 247

FLEET - AIR INDIA SHOWCASES ITS FIRST RETROFITTED AIRCRAFT WITH MODERN CABINS AND NEW LIVERY

Air India has welcomed its first retrofitted narrowbody aircraft, VT-EXN (A320neo aircraft), back into operations - marking an important milestone in the airline’s transformation journey. VT-EXN is the first of the 27 narrowbody aircraft inherited at the time of takeover that was elected for a complete retrofit to the new Air India standard, with new seats, carpets, curtain, cabin ambience, a three-class cabin configuration, along with a fresh coat of paint, new livery – all in the new Air India branding.

VT-EXN was sent for retrofit last year. Its retrofit is part of the USD400 million retrofit programme announced by the Tata group to upgrade the airline’s entire fleet of legacy narrowbody and widebody fleet.

VT-EXN and the remaining 26 A320neos will be operating on the domestic and short haul international, alongside the 14 new A320neos that have been welcomed into the fleet recently, offer modern amenities in three class cabin configuration – ensuring a uniform upgraded experience of passengers.
As part of the retrofit for all of the 27 A320neo that is scheduled to be completed by the third quarter of 2025, the airline will be installing over 3,500 brand-new Economy Class seats, more than 600 Premium Economy seats, and 200 Business Class seats.
It has taken 450 meters of premium leather, 15,000 meters of high-quality fabric, and 4,000 meters of plush carpeting.
All the refitted A320neo aircraft features eight luxurious Business seats, 24 extra legroom seats in Premium Economy, and 132 comfortable Economy seats. The retrofit includes soothing interior ambience, spacious legroom, and wider seat pitch, along with modern features such as portable electronic device (PED) holders and USB ports. New carpets, curtains, upholstery, and cabin panels with fresh design motifs will reinforce the brand livery.
The retrofit schedule will also see more legacy aircraft, including 40 widebody B787 and B777 aircraft undergo makeover with the first B787 flying out for retrofit next month.
Air India
 

ORDER - ATR Announces New Order of ATR 72-600F

World’s largest express transportation provider adds 10 ATR 72-600F to its feeder fleet

Toulouse, 21 March 2025 – ATR, the leading manufacturer of regional aircraft worldwide, today announced a major contract with FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX), the world’s largest express transportation provider, for the acquisition of 10 ATR 72-600F. This order adds to a previous commitment of 30 aircraft, and deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2029.

The only in-production regional freighter on the market, the ATR 72-600F incorporates the latest technology featured in the ATR –600 series while being specifically designed for cargo operations. A bulk configuration helps in optimising the available volume – up to 75 m3 – thanks to the nine vertical nets, attachment points on the floor and lateral tracks. In addition, with a large cargo door, cargo loading system and wide cross section, the ATR 72-600F can accommodate industry-standard Unit Load Devices (ULDs) and interline with larger freighters.

This purpose-built design, with its 9.2t payload, makes the ATR 72-600F a key asset in FedEx’s fleet, replacing its legacy ATRs, and helping optimise its network capabilities worldwide. Its high versatility allows for seamless operations across multiple countries, logistical frameworks and environments, from the warm climates of Miami, Florida, to the cold temperatures of Anchorage, Alaska. FedEx’s fleet of ATR 72-600F handles critical feeder operations, playing a vital role in the company’s coverage of smaller markets.

“FedEx’s decision to order additional ATR 72-600F underscores their trust in our aircraft’s performance and versatility. Our freighter variant is an essential component of the ATR family, offering significant advantages over traditional passenger-to-freighter conversions, including enhanced reliability and availability, and longer-term planning” added Alexis Vidal, Senior Vice-President Commercial of ATR.

These 10 aircraft are part of the 2024 undisclosed orders ATR released last month.

 ATR

FLEET / ORDER - Malaysia Aviation Group Announces Order for up to 60 Boeing 737 MAX Airplanes

- Firm order for 18 737-8 and 12 737-10 jets and options for 30 more to renew Malaysia Airlines' single-aisle fleet, will provide premium flying experience

- As the fastest-growing commercial aviation market, Southeast Asia's airplane fleet is forecasted to more than triple over 20 years



KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Malaysia Aviation Group today announced an order for 18 737-8 and 12 737-10 single-aisle jets to renew Malaysia Airlines' fleet with more fuel-efficient airplanes. The order, which booked in January 2025 and was posted as unidentified on Boeing's orders and deliveries website, will enable Malaysia's flag carrier to introduce new lie-flat seats and meet growing travel demand in Southeast Asia – one of the fastest-growing commercial aviation markets.

The region's airplane fleet is projected to grow nearly 250% over the next 20 years, underscoring the importance of Malaysia Aviation Group's investment in the 737-8's versatility and the 737-10's capacity as the largest member of the 737 MAX family.


"This is a significant investment for Malaysia Aviation Group, enabling us to deliver cutting-edge premium cabin offerings and state-of-the-art technology to our customers," said Izham Ismail, group managing director of Malaysia Aviation Group. "The addition of these new airplanes will not only enhance our fleet's efficiency and increase seating capacity, but allow us to elevate the overall inflight experience, with our passengers' needs at the forefront."

The Boeing 737 has served as the backbone of Malaysia Airlines' single-aisle fleet for nearly 60 years following the introduction of its first 737-100 in 1969. Malaysia Airlines has since operated nearly every variant of the 737 family and will continue that legacy with this latest order for the 737 MAX.

"Today's announcement represents another milestone in Boeing's long-standing partnership with Malaysia and reflects our enduring commitment to the country's aerospace sector," said Dr. Brendan Nelson AO, president of Boeing Global. "The opportunity to introduce more Boeing airplanes in Malaysia is a point of pride for our many Malaysian employees who contribute to every airplane Boeing builds and delivers to customers around the world."

With more than 50 737 jets in Malaysia Airlines' fleet, the introduction of additional 737-8s and the 737-10 offers operational commonality and the best per-seat economics in their class, reducing fuel use and emissions by 20%.

"We are honored to build upon our valued partnership with Malaysia Aviation Group and support them in modernizing their fleet," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "Adding the 737-8 and 737-10 will equip Malaysia Airlines with the operational flexibility, environmental performance and additional capacity they need to better serve a growing number of passengers."

Passenger air traffic across Southeast Asia will more than triple over the next 20 years, as projected in Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook, the company's long-term demand forecast for commercial airplanes and services. Of the more than 4,700 new airplanes expected to be delivered to the region's operators through 2043, nearly 80% will be single-aisle jets, such as the 737 MAX family.

Boeing's presence in Malaysia includes Boeing Composites Malaysia, the company's first wholly owned manufacturing facility in Southeast Asia with an all-Malaysian workforce. The facility provides composite products and subassemblies for all Boeing commercial airplanes, including the 737 MAX. Boeing supports the development of aerospace capabilities in Malaysia through safety training, sustainability workshops, supply chain development, university collaborations and community support initiatives.




 

FLEET - Air India is exploring a new multi-billion dollar order for dozens of widebody jets, which may involve 30 to 40 aircraft split between the A350 and B777X. One source suggested the potential deal could exceed 50 jets.


 Photo: Ton Jochems - LHR

Aviator 

ROUTES - LUFTHANSA NS25 INTERCONTINENTAL SERVICE CHANGES – 20MAR25

The following is the summary of Lufthansa’s Northern summer 2025 intercontinental network changes as of 20MAR25. Note most of these changes have been filed recently but not covered on AeroRoutes, nor other aviation/tourism news websites including Aviation A2Z, Simple Flying, Travel and Tour World.

Frankfurt – Abuja – Port Harcourt 
eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 7 weekly to 5 weeklyeff 07JUL25 1 of 5 weekly A330-300 replaces A340-300 (Previous: 2 of 5 weekly eff 19MAY25)

Frankfurt – Astana – Almaty – Frankfurt 
eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 3 weekly to 2, A330-300/A340-300 operating

eff 12MAY25 A330-300 operates 2 weekly, instead of A330-300/A340-300 (Originally scheduled with A330/340 mix)

Frankfurt – Atlanta A330-300 replaces A340-300

30MAR25 – 16MAY25 6 of 7 weekly

eff 17MAY25 Daily

Frankfurt – Chicago O'Hare 1 of 2 daily LH432/433 service changes

30MAR25 – 30JUN25 Day x257 A340-600 replaces -300 (AeroRoutes previously listed as 30MAR25 – 30JUL25 in error)

10OCT25 – 25OCT25 Reduce from 7 to 6 weekly (Recently filed reductions)

Frankfurt – Los Angeles Seasonal 2nd daily LH450/451 reduces from 7 to 5 weekly, A340-300. Service operates from 03MAY25 to 08OCT25, instead of entire season from 01MAY25

Frankfurt – New York JFK LH404/405 Reduce from 7 to 6 weekly during following periods, with A340-300 (Overall service reduces from 14 to 13 weekly): 30MAR25 – 25APR25, 14OCT25 – 25OCT25

Frankfurt – Seattle Initially filed A340-600 replaced by following, 1 daily
30MAR25 – 30JUN25 A340-300 (Previous: until 30APR25)

eff 01JUL25 A350-900 (Previous: eff 01MAY25)

Munich – Chicago O'Hare 2nd daily LH436/437 operates 5 weekly from 03MAY25, instead of 1 daily from 30MAR25

Munich – Delhi 01OCT25 – 25OCT25 A350-900 replaces A380, 1 daily

Munich – Montreal
30MAR25 – 29APR25 Reduce from 1 daily to 5 weekly

eff 30APR25 4 of 7 weekly operates with revised schedule and flight numbers

LH474 MUC1650 – 1850YUL 359 124

LH472 MUC1900 – 2100YUL 359 x124

LH475 YUL2040 – 1000+1MUC 359 124

LH473 YUL2250 – 1210+1MUC 359 x124

Munich – Osaka Kansai eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 1 daily to 5 weekly, A350-900

Munich – San Diego 30MAR25 – 30APR25 Reduce from 1 daily to 5 weekly, A350-900

Munich – Singapore eff 30MAR25 Reduce from 1 daily to 6 weekly, A350-900

Munich – Toronto Seasonal service operates from 27APR25, instead of 30MAR25. 1 daily A350-900

Munich – Vancouver 30MAR25 – 25APR25 Reduce from 1 daily to 5 weekly, A350-900

Previously reported changes:

Frankfurt – Bangalore eff 30MA25 747-400 replaces previously filed -8I, 1 daily

Frankfurt – Beijing Capital Service remains cancelled

Frankfurt – Bogota eff 30MAR25 5 weekly 787-9 service maintained, instead of initially filed 1 daily A340-300

Frankfurt – Boston 1 of 2 daily LH422/423 aircraft changes, initially filed 1 daily A340-600 replaced by

30MAR25 – 30APR25 343 Daily

01MAY25 – 30JUN25 744 Daily

eff 01JUL25 343 Day 257 346 Day x257

 Frankfurt – Cape Town eff 29MAR25 787-9 replaces initially filed A340-300, reduces from 5 to 3 weekly

Frankfurt – Chennai eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 1 daily to 5 weekly, A340-300

Frankfurt – Dallas/Ft. Worth 
30MAR25 – 06MAR25 Reduce from 7 to 6 weekly, 2 of 6 weekly A330-300 replaces A340-300

eff 07MAY25 2 of 7 weekly A330-300 replaces A340-300

Frankfurt – Delhi eff 01JUL25 A340-300 replaces -600, 1 daily

Frankfurt – Denver eff 01MAY25 A350-900 replaces A340-600, 1 daily (Previous: A340-300)

Frankfurt – Detroit eff 30MAR25 A340-300 replaces initially filed 787-9, 1 daily

Frankfurt – Dubai eff 02MAY25 1 of 7 weekly A340-300 replaces A330-300

Frankfurt – Houston eff 30MAR25 747-8I replaces initially filed -400, 1 daily

Frankfurt – Lagos – Malabo eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 1 daily to 5 weekly.  Initially filed A330-300 replaced by following

30MAR25 – 30APR25 343 Day x15

01MAY25 – 10MAY25 333 Day 47 343 Day 236

11MAY25 – 17MAY25 343 Day x145

eff 18MAY25 333 Day x156 343 Day 5

Frankfurt – Minneapolis/St. Paul
30MA25 – 30APR25 Reduce from initially filed 5 weekly to 3, 787-9 operating

eff 02MAY25 Service transferred to Discover Airlines

 Frankfurt – Nairobi eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 1 daily to 5 weekly, A330-300

Frankfurt – Rio de Janeiro eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 1 daily A340-300 to 3 weekly 787-9

Frankfurt – Riyadh – Dammam eff 30MAR25 A340-600 replaces initially filed A330-300, 1 daily

Frankfurt – Seoul Incheon eff 30MAR25 A350-900 replaces previously filed 747-400, 1 daily

Frankfurt – Shanghai Pu Dong 
* LH732/733 eff 30MAR25 A350-900 replaces initially filed 747-400 (Previous: A340-300 replaces 747-400)

* LH728/729 eff 30MAR25 Seasonal service reduces from 7 to 3 weekly, A340-600

 Frankfurt – Singapore eff 30MAR25 747-400 replaces initially filed -8I, 1 daily

Frankfurt – Tehran Imam Khomeini eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 1 daily to 5 weekly, A340-300

Frankfurt – Washington Dulles
* LH416/417 eff 01MAY25 Seasonal service reduces from initially filed 1 daily to 5 weekly, A340-300

* LH418/419 Initially filed A340-600 replaced by following

30MAR25 – 30APR25 744 Daily

01MAY25 – 31JUL25 74H Daily

eff 01AUG25 744 Daily

Munich – Bangkok Suvarnabhumi 30MAR25 – 26APR25 A380 replaces A350-900, 1 daily
Munich – Denver 30APR25 – 30SEP25 A380 replaces A350-900, 1 daily
Munich – Hong Kong Service remains cancelled in NS25

Munich – Johannesburg eff 30MAR25 3 weekly A350-900 service cancelled in NS25 (Tentatively converts to Northern winter seasonal route)

Munich – New York JFK 30MAR25 – 27APR25 A350-900 replaces A380, 1 daily
Munich – Sao Paulo Guarulhos eff 30MAR25 3 weekly A350-900 service cancelled in NS25 (Tentatively converts to Northern winter seasonal route)

Munich – Seattle eff 30MAR25 Reduce from initially filed 1 daily to 3 weekly, A350-900

Munich – Washington Dulles 30MAR25 – 26APR25 A350-900 replaces A380, 1 daily

ROUTES

Photos: Duncan Stewart

 

FLEET - United Airlines eyes additional aircraft retirements in 2025

United Airlines (UA, Chicago O'Hare) is expected to retire 21 aircraft early during 2025, as the company anticipates some softness in the market and prepares to implement a short-term response to new headwinds, according to chief executive Scott Kirby.

Speaking at a Barclays industrial event earlier this month, Kirby discussed the possibility of lower-than-expected profitability outlooks for the first quarter.

“We have seen government and some low-end consumer leisure weakness, which also appears consistent to me with a lot of other data that I look at [...]. You put all that together, and we now expect to be at the low end of our guidance range. So what do we do in response to that? At United, we looked at the situation and said, ‘Well, what we are doing is retiring 21 aircraft early. That is something that will be cash-positive this year’,” he said, noting that in 2024 the carrier had to spend USD100 million on engine overhauls.

United Airlines is retiring the “most expensive aircraft” in its fleet. However, Kirby did not disclose which types the company will be moving away from. ch-aviation reached out to the carrier for additional clarification but it declined to comment.

The ch-aviation fleets module shows that United Airlines' mainline fleet comprises 1,010 aircraft, of which the oldest, on average, are the B767-300ERs (37 in total, averaging 29.1 years), followed by the B757-200s (40, 28.2 years), the B777-200s (19, 28.1 years), and the B737-700s (40, 26 years).

“We built a plan with optionality and flexibility that, if we see short-term headwinds, we can make short-term responses. And that step, the 21 aircraft, correlates to what we have seen,” Kirby added.

In parallel, United Airlines expects to receive 73 aircraft in 2025, including nine B787-9s, sixteen B737-8s, twenty-eight B737-9s, and twenty A321neos.

 CH Aviation

Photo: Duncan Stewart