ALL THINGS BOEING

Boeing Maintains 787 Delivery Target Despite Seat And Engine Delays

Boeing is still expecting to reach a target of 90-100 deliveries of 787 twinjets this Year, despite hold-ups in supply chain for premium seats and engines.

The airframe delivered 15 787 over the first three months this year.

Chief executive Kelly Ortberg, speaking during a first-quarter briefing on 22 April, 

said there had been “some impact” to deliveries during this period owing to delays in premium seat certification.

“ We still expect to meet our full-year delivery range,” he states.

Ortberg says the airframe is working with customers and the US FAA to tackle

the situation by partnering earlier in the development process and creating

“contractual off-ramps” to avoid future delivery delays.

Boeing has increased the 787 production rate at the Charleston facility to eight

aircraft per month, and it has stabilized at this level while the the company works

through supply-chain delays including “interiors and engines”,says Ortberg.

He points out that rework hours have improved by more than 25% compared with

the same period last year.

“We have done a good job of stabilizing as we have moved from five, to seven,

to eight per month,” he states.

“ We have been struggling with getting the seat certifications complete for the

new cabin configuration.”

Ortberg indicates that engine supply is also a concern.

“It’s been a tough quarter in terms of engine deliveries for us,” he says.

“They have fallen behind a little bit.”

“We do have a recovery plan on engines.We have got to stay on that recovery plan to allow us to also us to get to the next increase of 10 aircraft per month.”

Source: Boeing, picture Boeing

Some 30 Early 777Xs need Modification & Upgrade Before Delivery: Boeing

Boeing expects around 30 of its initially-built 777Xs to require modification to bring them up to the standard necessary for delivery.

The 777X, which has slipped far behind schedule during its development ,is

progressing through certification stages and the airframes still expects initial deliveries next year.

Speaking during a first-quarter briefing,Boeing chief executive Kelly Ortberg said

the change incorporation is a”pretty massive activity”consequence of having to build aircraft early to get all the learning”.

Some 30 aircraft will be going through the process over the course of several 

Years he adds.

The extend of the changes depends largely on when the airframe was manufactured older aircraft are likely to demand more work, including structural modifications, while newer ones will only need minor upgrades.

“We go back in and we incorporate all these changes before we make the delivery,” says Ortberg.

Boeing’s commercial aircraft division has a dedicated team focusing specifically on the change incorporation on the 777Xs.

“Each airplane has a different work scope,” Ortberg adds.

“That’s what the team is doing right now going through defining the statement of 

work.

“We’re actually going to bring all those airplanes down to a common configuration level and then incorporate the changes.We think that’s the most

Efficient Way.”

The 777-9 variant certification program has moved to Type Inspection Authorization phase 4a, which Ortberg describes as “not a super-large package”

it focuses on natural icing.

“We want to get the icing work done while there’s sill ice available in Alaska”,he

says.”That was a really important one for us to gets  that we don’t have to search

for wether.”

The next certification phase, TIA 4b, is a “Pretty large package” and expected “very soon” he adds:

“ Achieving TIA 4b will be important for us to continue the flight test.”

While GE Aerospace has been working on a fix to address an issue with the

GE9X engine for the 777X Ortberg insists that this is not “impacting” the flight- 

test program.

Source: Boeing, picture Boeing

Boeing Prepares to Launch New 737 Max Production Line

Boeing is making progress toward launching its fourth 737 MAX production line

and expects to open it this summer in Everett.

The North line will increase single-aisle production capacity, 787-8s, 737-9s and 737-10s allowing Boeing to better meet market demand.

This will expand capacity for single-aisle production beyond the established Renton Lines.

Boeing leaders first announced the new line publicly in February.It is expected to help production capacity for the 737 MAX above 47 airplanes per month.

The Company said it has completed construction and Colin of the new line, and is now focused on hiring and training workers.The North Line team will include a

combination of newly hired employees and current workers from, Renton, Everett, and Moses Lake, also in Washington.

When the North Line first begins operations, it will complete a process know as low rate initial production, where the building process is deliberately slowed down

to allow for additional checks and adjustments.The first set of aircraft built during this phase will be used to demonstrate conformity to the FAA, which will permit the North Line to operate under Boeing’s production certificate.

Once this process is complete, the new line can be integrated into Boeing’s 737 Max Production flow.

Source: Boeing,Picture Boeing

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

EASA Certifies A320neo With GTF Advantage,Clearing Path to Service Entry

Europe’s aviation regulator has certificated Airbus A320neo-family jets powered by Pratt & Whitney’s new GTF Advantage PW1100G turbofans, an engine the manufacturer says burns less fuel and is more durable than prior variants.

P&W disclosed the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s approval on 17 April, saying the milestone paves “the way for production engine deliveries and entry into service”,planned for this year.

P&W revealed its Advantage development program in late 2021 and achieved the power plant’s type certification from the FAA in February 2025.

P&A says the Advantage is more efficient than baseline GTFs and generates 4-8% more thrust at take-off,” enabling higher payload and longer range, 

unlocking new destinations for airlines”.

P&W also claimed the Advantage will be more durable than earlier GTFs, helping Address the widespread reliability issues that challenged operators.

P&W is offering customers an upgrade package called ‘Hot SectionPlus’ that involves installing some of those improved components in baseline GTFs to achieve 90-95% of the Advantage’s durability benefit, it says.

P&W plans to slowly ramp Advantage production until it is producing & delivering

Only the new variant in 2028.

Source: P&W, picture Airbus

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

South Korea’s SUM Air Orders Four ATR 72-600s

South Korea’s SUM Air orders four ATR 72-600s that will operate to underserved

Regions. And airports as well as short-haul routes to neighboring china and Japan.

“Starting with the Gimpo _ Sacheon route, we will build a spoke network linking inland and island airports,” says Sum Air chief executive Yongduck Choi.

“The aircraft acquired through this agreement will be deployed to operate routes to island airports such as Ulleungdo, Baengnyeongdo and Heuksando.

The ATR 72-600 optimized for short-haul operations, will play a pivotal role in enabling SUM Air to deliver air services that connect islands and regions across

Korea.”

The Sum Air order was signed in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron, who was in South Korea for the French-Korea bilateral economic forum.

Source: FlightGlobal.

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Air Canada Receives First A321XLR After Years of Delays

Air Canada has received its first Airbus A321XLR,With another 29 of the long-range single-aisle type expected to join the carrier’s fleet before decade-end.

The aircraft, leased from SMBC Aviation Capital, Last was recently handed off at Airbus’ production facility in Hamburg.Last month, Air Canada shared a video of the A321XLR, prior to delivery, taking flight after rolling of Airbus’ production line.

Fleet-data provider Cirium shows that the flight occurred on 27 February. 

Air Canada Plans to lease half of its A32XLRs, while the other 15 jets will be purchased directly Airbus.All will be powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1100G geared turbofans.The jets have 4,700nm,(8,704km) of range, according to Airbus.

Air Canada chief commercial officer Mark Galardo says the first delivery marks

“Transformative moment for Air Canada” that supports the carrier long -term

Renewal plan.

Air Canada says the type will bring a”wide body experience to a single-aisle

Jet”,configured with 182 seats 14 lie-flat seats and 168 economy seats. Earlier

This month, the company revealed plans for lie-flat seating on its A31XLR as part of its new Glowing Hearted interior design.

Source: Air Canada, picture Air Canada

Enhanced P-8A Poseidon Declared Operationally Ready By US Navy

The Increment 3 Block 2 upgrade brings improved sensors, acoustics and a new

Signals intelligence capability to the US Navy’s frontline maritime patrol aircraft.

The work saw updates to the P-8A’s airframe and avionics systems. It also includes new airframe racks, antennas, sensors, wiring, and new radome.

An image provided by NAVAIR shows the addition of a distinct dorsal fairing fuselage, likely housing a new satellite communications array.

Updated P-8As have improved computer processing, enhanced communications, an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) signals intelligence capability, and improved

acustics systems, which directly support the aircraft’s key mission against enemy submarines.

“The P-8A Increment 3 Block 2 modifications could not have come at a better time inner current state of evolving threats,” says USN Captain Eric Thomas,

PMA-290 program manager.

“The Poseidon is the cornerstone of sophisticated and lethal global maritime

Patrol and reconnaissance forces, and this enhanced capability ensures we sustain the core pillar of world-class maritime intelligence, survellance, reconnaissance and targeting and remain ready for our current and future 

Flights.”

P-8As of the Royal Australian Air Force(RAAF) will also receive the Increment 3

Block 2 upgrade.

Source: FlightGlobal, picture FlightGlobal

LATAM Orders Trent 1000 XEs to Power three 787s Despite Prior Reliability Problems

LATAM Airlines is giving Rolls-Royce another shot, ordering the UK engine

Maker’s updated Trent 1000 XE turbofans to power three incoming Boring 787s.

Disclosed by R-R on 29 April, the order comes after Chilean airline in recent years suffered repeated durability problems with earlier-generation Trent 1000s its 787s.

Those problems left some gets grounded and let LATAM to order competing GE Aerospace GEnx turbofans for later 787s.

But the Trent1000 XE, revealed last year’s R-R’s answer to the maintenance issues.the company made several changes under a “ two-phase durability enhancement program” it says more than doubles the turbofan’s time between

scheduled maintenance.

R-R does not say when the 787s will be delivered to LATAM. Neither the engine maker nor the airline immediately respond to requests for comment.

Source: Flight Global, picture LATAM

LATEST NEWS

•  China Southern Airlines has entered a purchase agreement for 102 Airbus A320neo-family jets, plus a further 35 which will be allocated to subsidiary Xiamen Airlines.

•  Kazakh Carrier SCAT Airlines has emerged as the customer for five Boeing 737 Max 9s Previously listed as an unidentified order by Boeing.

• Biman Bangladesh Airlines announced on April 30th that the carrier has Placed its largest-ever order, selecting 14 787 Dreamliner four 737 Max 8s the airline’s first MAX order.

•  Egypt Air has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737 Max twinges, one of 18 Boeing introduced through SMBC Aviation Capital.

•  Copa Airlines has ordered another 40 Boeing 737 Max and taken options covering possible future orders for 20 more of the narrow body jets.

•  El Al is to acquire four Boeing 787-10s through the conversion of previous

orders and options it holds on 787s.

• Allegiant Air is now updating its once-all-Airbus A320-family fleet with Boeing 737 Max 8-200s. It received one 737 Max and retired one A320 during the first quarter.

•  Low-Cost Operator Scoot has ordered 11 more Airbus A320neo-family

aircraft to fuel network expansion.

•  Air Asia is ordering 150 Airbus  A220-300s for fleet renewal, and will be the

Launch customer for a higher capacity variant with 160 seats.

Sources: Boeing,Airbus, Pictures Airbus & Boeing

AIR CARGO

Airbus Begins Work to inStall First A350F’s Main-Deck Cargo Door

Airbus has taken a big step towards completing its first A350 freighter with the

arrival of the main deck cargo door at its final assembly line facility in France.

Speaking during an Airbus cargo event in Hamburg and Bremen on 21 April, Joel

Rocker said: ”we are going to start the integration of the door on the 22 April and

it’s about a month’s work all in all.”

Airbus had predicted the maiden flight of its two test aircraft would take place in the third quarter of this year.

If the aircraft installations and safety checks have been completed, the first flight is expected to be in September, or could  shift to October, says Rocker.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus

 Researched and Compiled by : 

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor  

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian  

ALL THINGS BOEING

FAA Clears Higher Takeoff weight for 787-9 And 787-10

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) has certified an increased maximum takeoff weight (iMTOW) for the 787-9 and 787-10. The change gives

Boeing airline customers the option to carry more payload of fly longer routes.

Program leaders say iMTOW upgrades reflect airline feedback and ongoing product development.

“We started this effort after airlines sent Boring a clear message: they wanted

greater flexibility,” said John Murphy,787 chief project engineer.

“ Some wanted the 787-10 to fly longer missions; others wanted the 787-9To carry additional payload with range trade-offs.Boeing designed a solution that delivers both.”

Air New Zealand, the launch customer, will be among the first operators to use

the iMTOW capability.

“It’s incredibly exciting to see our first 787-9 with the increased maximum takeoff weight completing assembly and preparing for its final inspections and flight tests,” said Baden Smith,Air New Zealand general manager of Strategy,Networks and Fleet.

“ This upgrade gives us greater ability to carry additional payload on our ultra long-haul routes an important enabler for our network ambitions, supporting trade, tourism and better connectivity for New Zealand.We’re looking forward to bringing this new airplane into our fleet.”

Source:  Boeing

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

AerCap Places an Order with Airbus For 100 A320neo Family Aircraft

On March 18,2026 AerCap Holdings N.V.( AerCap) has signed a firm order with Airbus for 23 A320neo and 77 A321neo aircraft. This transaction underscores AirCap’s strategy of investing in the world’s most in-demand airCraft aircraft to

Meet the long-term requirements of its global airline customer base.

“This order for 100 A320 Family aircraft reflects our strong belief in the long-term

Demand for these highly efficient aircraft and will help meet the continued demand we see fro our customers for growth and replacement needs,”said Aengus Kelly,CEO of AerCap.

“As the world’s largest owner of commercial aircraft, our strategy is clear:

we invest in the assets that provide our airline customers with best economics and the lowest emissions.This land mark transaction ensures that AerCap will continue to lead the industry in fleet modernization well into the next decade.

Source: Airbus

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Indonesian Defense Ministry Orders 12 Pilatus PC-24s

Indonesia’s ministry of defense placed a firm order fora dozen Pilatus PC-24s to support the Indonesian air force’s air transport, liaison, and transport training requirements, Pilatus Aircraft announced on 30th of March.

The firm order, placed with defense contractor PT E-System Indonesia,also

Includes an option for more of the light twinjets.

Additionally, a letter of intent has been signed for the supply of 24 PC-21 turboprop trainers.

According to Pilatus, The PC-24’s operational flexibility, ability to operate from

Unpaved runways, and single-pilot operation make it “ ideal for a variety of

government missions.”

These include instrument pilot trains, transport, and Liaison duties.

The contract also includes ground support equipment, tooling parts, training and

and technical support.

“Our priority is to support Indonesia in putting the fleet into Service smoothly,”

Said Pilatus Aircraft CEO Markus Bucher.

PilatusV.P. of government aviation Ioannis Papachristofilou added that the Indonesian selection of the PC-24 “ emphasizes the growing interest of government operations” in operating the type. In October,the French Navy became the first European military customer for the PC24,leasing three unit from

Jet Aviation.The Qatar Emiri Air Force has also ordered two PC-24s.

Source: Pilatus Aircraft,Picture Pilatus

Dassault Unveiled Falcon 10 X Ultra-Long-Range Business Jet

Dassault Aviation on10 March unveiled its Falcon 10X large cabin business

Jet, bringing the program one step closer to the first flight Dassault has said could happen this year.

The French manufacturer revealed the jet during the event at its Bordeau-

Mergnac production site, with more than 400 people attending customers and

Suppliers, it says. 

“The Falcon 10X introduces the largest, most-comfortable and most- versatile

cabin ever designed in a purpose-built business jet”, Dassault adds.

The Falcon 10X is Dassault’s answer to ultra-long-range business jet introduced

By competitor in recent years.Those include Gulfstream’s G700 and G800 and

Bombardier’s Global 7500 and 8000.

Once certified expected for 2027 the Falcon 10X will take over as Dassault’s

Flagship from the 6X, an aircraft that entered service in late 2023. 

“The objective is to allow Passengers to experience time onboard the aircraft

As just another part of their everyday life, not as a long interval between origin

and destination.So they arrive feeling refreshed and at their very best,” says

Dassault chief Eric Trappier.

The Falcon 10X’s “all-composite wing” a first for business aviation, according to Dassault “supports the aircraft’s large cabin while maintaining the agility and runway flexibility that Falcon aircraft are known for”.

Powered by twin 18,000lb(80KN)-thrust Rolls-Royce Pearl 10X turbofans, the Falcon 10X will be capable of flying at MACh0925 cruise will give it 7,500nm

(13,890km) of range enough to fly from New York to Shanghai,Los Angeles to Sydney or Sao Paulo to Dubai.

The Falcon 10X will cruise at up to 51,000ft.When flying at 41,000ft, its cabin

Will be pressurized to equivalent of 3,000ft altitude.

Source : Dassault Aviation, picture Dassault Aviation

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Air Algerie to Take a Batch of 737 Max 8s For Fleet Update

Air Algerie is to acquire 10 Boeing 737 Max 8 jets as part of a fleet modernization

program.

Air Algerie is taking the aircraft to support a directive of the Algerian president,

Abdelmadjid Tebboune, aimed at developing civil transport in the country.

The company believes the aircraft will enhance competitiveness and consolidate its position, according to the statement.

Air Algerie already has a fleet of 737-800s as well as a few examples of other 737 variants.

Boeing lists an order for eight 737 Max jets from May 2023 following an agreement by the Carrier to take Max 9s.

These aircraft have yet to be delivered.It is unclear wether the 10 Max 8s are

Supplemental of represent an a judgment to the previous order.

Source: Air Algerie, Picture Air TeamImages

Rolls-Royce Validates F130 Engine Performance in Altitude and Operability tests For US Air Force B-52 Bomber Upgrade Program

Rolls-Royce has completed altitude and operability tests for the F130 engine that

will power the US Air Forces’s future fleet of upgraded B-52J bombers.

The work was conducted at the USAF’s Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) in Tullahoma, Tennessee,Says Rolls-Royce.

Eight F130s will power the upgraded B-22J.

Working with the USAF,R-R validated its F130 engine in mission conditions.

The company tested how the engine will perform in long-duration, high-altitude missions, including with “turbulent-real-world airflow.”

Also tested was the new Integrated Drive Generator, which will provide electrical

power during missions.

“Throughout this F130 engine amain, we gathered essential Dara about how this engine operates across the full spectrum of flight conditions,” says USAF Lt Col Timothy Cleaver, who leads the engine replacement effort for the B52.

“Completing the series of tests at AEDC’s world -class facility gives us confidence

in the engine and associated systems as we proceed into test aircraft modification and flight testing.”

The F completed its critical design review in late 2024, setting the stage for the first flight test engines.

Ultimately eight F130s, derived from the company’s BR725 commercial engine,

will power the B-52J.They replace legacy Pratt & Whitney TF33 engines under the

B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program.

In addition to new propulsion, each of the USAF”S 76 B-52 bombers will receive

Raytheon’s AN/APQ-188 active electronically scanned array radar, updated

communications for both conventional and nuclear missions, new compartments

and improved avionics.

The USAF is expected to reach initial operating capability for the B-52J in 2033

Including both the new radar and F130 engines.

Source: Rolls-Royce,Picture Rolls-Royce

Austrian Details Fuel-Burn Saving From Aerodynamic Film On 777s

The AeroShark film has been applied to four Boeing 777-200ER in the Austrian Fleet.

Austrian states that coating has reduced drag by 0.7%.While this is fractional ,it

translated to a 930t fuel saving and reduction of 3,000t of carbon dioxide.

The Carrier says the four 777s registered OE -LPA,LPB,LPC and LPD had the film applied in three  months to March 2025 and have been in service for the past 12 months.

Austrian began flying the modified-200ERs after AeroShark certification was extended to the variant by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, and early last year expected a 2,650 ft savings to 2028.

Lufthansa Technik and BASF developed the film, which uses fine rubles and is derived from analysis of structure of shark skin.

Source: Austrian,Lufthansa Technik

EVA Air Board Approved Boeing Fleet Boost

The Board of EVA Air has approved the purchase of four Boeing 787-9s in a deal valued at 1.94 billion dollars.No details have been released on which engines will

Power the new additions.

EVA Air currently uses both the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 and the GE Aerospace GEnx on its existing 787 fleet, which consists of eight 787-9s and 13 787-10s.

Meanwhile, the airline has agreed to extend the leases of four 777-300ERs from

Air Lease Corporation.It also intends to overhaul cabins on six other 777-300ERs.

The cabin modernization programs been valued at up to $152 million.

The move comes as the airline prepares for the first Airbus A350-1000s,

Due to arrive early next year.

EVA Air has 25-1000s on order, which will be used to replace it’s older 

777-300ERs.

Source: EVA Air,Picture Boeing

LATEST NEWS

•  HAECO has secured a three-year Air India contract to provide AirBus A35 and Boeing 777and 787 line maintenance at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

•  Lufthansa Technik was selected by Juneyao Group to perform CFM overhauls at Hamburg, Germany.

•  Yemen’s FlyAden has officially taken delivery of its first aircraft, an Airbus A320, at Aden International Airport, marking a significant milestone for the country’s aviation sector.

•  Ethiopian Arlines has signed an agreement with Boeing to purchase nine new 787 Dreamliners.The deal, valued at around $2.7bn at list prices covers both the 787-8 and -9 variants.

•  Air India receivesfactory-fresh Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for privatized Air India has been delivered to the airline’s Delhi/Indira Gandhi International base.

•  Allegiant DOT has approved Allegiant Travel Group’s planned acquisition of competitor SUN Country Airlines Holding, positioning the companies to close their deal as soon as 13 May.

Sources: Lufthansa Technik, Ethiopian,Air India,Allegiant,my research

AIR CARGO

Building the 777-8 Freighter : Wing Join,Systems Install Underway

Boeing teams brought the 777-8F’s mid-fuselage together with the composite

wings, which span 235 feet (72 Meters). This production milestone is known as

Wing-body join.

Nearby, teams began outfitting forward and aft fuselage sections with systems

and wiring.

Customers are paying close attention to program milestones.The 777-8 Freighter

Has won 68 orders from customers worldwide.

“We’re building on the success of the legacy 777 Freighter,” said Jens Biemann,

Design engineer lead. This is going to be an airplane that will help customers be

Successful in their businesses.”

The team acknowledged the challenges inherent in building a new airplane, from

coordinating parts to becoming familiar with new installation plans, as they work

across functions on the build.

Source: Boeing, picture Boeing

National Airlines Celebrates Successful Delivery of Its First Boeing 777-200 LRF Aircraft In Everett

U.S based National Airlines proudly marked the successful delivery of its first Boeing 777-200 LRF freighter aircraft at the Boeing Everett Factory on Tuesday,

the 14th April, celebrating a major milestone in the airline’s continued growth and fleet modernization.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including National Airlines’

Valued customers, key partners, senior representatives from Boeing.The event

Featured a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by an exclusive guided tour of the aircraft, offering attendees a firsthand look at the capabilities of the 

New freighter.

The addition of the Boeing 777-200LRF to National Airlines’ fleet represents a

significant advancement in its operational capabilities.Renowned for its long-range performance, fuel efficiency, and high payload capacity, the aircraft will

Enable the airline to further enhance its global cargo network and deliver superior

and sustainable services to customers.

The Airline will be taking deliveries of its rest three 777-200LRF freighters in the

coming months.

Source: Boeing,National Air Cargo,Picture Boeing.

 Researched and Compiled by : 

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor  

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian  

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

ON THE BOEING FRONT

Boeing Begins 2026 on High Note as 107 Order Total Marks Strongest January Sales Since 2012

Boeing, in January, kept up a brisk pace of aircraft deliveries and continued padding its backlog, including by landing major orders from lessors and a landmark 787 deal from Delta Air Lines. The Atlanta-based carrier in January agreed to acquire 30 787-10s, marking a major win for Boeing that reflects a shift by Delta away from the recent trend of only acquiring Airbus Widebodies. Delta will use the jets, powered by GE Aerospace GEnx engines, to replace its 767s; deliveries are set to begin in 2031.

Boeing has enjoyed resurgent demand for the 787 over the last year, having secured orders for more than 400 of the jets since the start of 2025. Including the 30-strong Delta deal, Boeing last month took orders for 107 aircraft, the most in any January since 2012, the airframer said on 10 February. Among those, lessor Aviation Capital Group signed for 50 737 Max, Air India ordered 20 737 Max and Taiwan’s EVA Air ordered four 787s.

Meanwhile,Boeing kept deliveries humming last month, handing over 46 jets, including 37 737s. The company says it has not delivered that many aircraft in any January since 2019, prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Boeing ended the month with 6,196 aircraft in its backlog, up from 6,130 at the end of December.

Source: Boeing

Boeing Announces Largest-Ever Landing Gear Exchange Agreement At Singapore AirShow

On February 4, 2026, Boeing announced the largest landing gear exchange contract in Boeing’s history at the Singapore Airshow. Under the contract, Boeing will provide landing gear exchanges for more than 75 aircraft across the 737 MAX and 787 fleets operated by Singapore Airlines(SIA) Group. The landing gear exchange program offers gear overhaul scheduling flexibilityThat will optimize the useful life of the gears and mining aircraft downtime.

Boeing’s landing Gear Exchange program provides tailored solutions to airline customers needing timely access to serviceable landing gear assemblies through a managed inventory and partner network. It reduces the need for carriers to hold large on-site spares, shortens maintenance- related aircraft on-ground time and supports sustained dispatch reliability across busy networks. “Our relationship with Th e SIA consistent, reliable is built on delivering dependable solutions,” said William Ampofo, senior vice president,Parts& Distribution and Supply Chain, Boeing Global services.

“By combining our global inventory and rapid distribution capabilities with the carrier’s maintenance planning, this agreement helps deliver parts faster and closer to operations reducing downtime and supporting consistent, reliable service.”

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

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

Boeing successfully completed its 100th 787 Landing Gear Exchange (LGE) delivery, highlighting its commitment to innovate solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety for its customers.The milestone delivery was received by ANA. “The Landing Gear Exchange program has been instrumental in optimizing out Maintenance operations and ensuring the highest levels of safety during our Passengers’ journeys with us,” said Yukifumi Ueda, vice president and generalManager, Engine, Component & Supply Chain, ANA.

“This latest delivery demonstrates our strong partnership with Boeing and our commitment providing exceptional seamless service to our customers.” ANA has received and installed landing gear assemblies through the exchange program on 30 of its 787s.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Vietnam Airlines Firms Up Commitments for 50 737 Max 8s

Vietnam Airlines has finalized its orders for 50 Boeing 737 Max 8s, becoming the narrow body’s newest customer. The deal, announced during a state visit by Vietnamese leader To Lam to the USA, is valued at $8.1 billion according to listed pricing, says Vietnam Airlines. Boeing adds that the order was previously listed as undisclosed. Deliveries of the new aircraft will commence 2030 through 2032.The expansion Takes Vietnam Airlines’ fleet to over 150 aircraft by 2030.

Separately, Vietnam Airlines says it is in talks with Boeing over a potential wide body order valued at around $12 billion and covering 30 aircraft to support its International network development strategy. Vietnam Airlines currently operates 17 787s comprising -9s and the larger-10s.

Source : Vietnam Airlines, Boeing, Picture Vietnam Airlines.

Boeing Receives Initial Qualification for 777-9 Training Devices

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approved simulator devices for airline pilot training. On February 19, 2026, Boeing 777-9 flight training simulators are one step closer to conducting regulator-approved pilot training after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued qualification certificates granting initial qualification. “Securing these approvals is an important step as we prepare for the start of flight training,” said Capt. Gary Mandy, 777X chief technical pilot. “Pilots will benefit from an immersive training experience that will help ensure our customers’ operational readiness for the 777-9”.

The development of these devices has been a collaborative effort between Boeing and device manufacturer CAE. The 777-9 training devices, located at the Boeing Training  Campus in Gatwick, U.K., include a state of the art full-flight simulator and flight training devices that replicate the airplane’s Advanced systems, allowing pilots to gain proficiency in all aspects of Boeing’s Latest widebody. “The qualification of these training devices underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality training solutions that meet the needs of global airline customers and regulators,” said Chris Broom, vice president, Commercial Training Solutions, Boeing Global Services.

The training devices integrate airplane systems and sophisticated simulation software that model flight dynamics and environmental conditions to provide a realistic training experience for pilots. Following this initial qualification, the training devices will be used by regulatory authorities to validate and approve training courseware before customers commence their pilot training. “This qualification is the result of a multi-year effort between CAE and Boeing’s leading experts,” said Alexandre Prevost, President, Civil Aviation CAE. “We’re excited to continue this strong collaboration as we deliver full-flight simulators to our mutual customers around the world.”

The first member of the 777X family, the 777-9 has a flight deck designed to achieve a high level of comfort and commonality with the 777 and 787 Dreamliner while incorporating advancements for flight crews, including:

• Large-format displays with touchscreen capability.

• The option for dual head-up displays similar to the 787 Dreamliner.

• A redesigned pilot seat that offers greater comfort.

• A unique control and indicator for the 777X folding wingtips that clearly highlights whether wingtips are extended, in motion or folded.

• Integration of portable tablet-based Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) capability.

Source: Boeing, CAE, Picture Boeing

ON THE AIRBUS FRONT

Stretched A350-1000 Natural Evolution But Not a Priority

Airbus is exploring the potential for a larger A350 variant beyond the -1000, but stresses that its work in this direction remains preliminary. Speaking during a full-year briefing on 19 February, Airbus chief executive Guillaume said the airframe “sees demand for a larger aircraft, so that’s also something we’re looking at”. The A350-1000 is intended to accommodate 350-410 passengers, although the twinjet is certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency to seat up to 480 if fitted with enhanced dual-lane exit slides. Faury says Airbus is “seriously looking” at the further potential of the A350.

“ A stretch would be a natural evolution of the product,” he states, though he cautions: “We’re not at the point of decision. We’re still the point of working, of analyzing, of listening to customers. But that’s indeed something possible.” Faury points out that Airbus has other priorities with the A350 program, notably the freighter variant, which it aims to fly for the first time this year-end. It is taking matters “one by one”. The airframe intends to begin deliveries of the freighter, which has 81 firm orders, in 2027. Airbus is also exploring avenues to increase A350 production.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Alberta Orders Five DHC-515 Water Bombers From De Havilland

The Canadian province of Alberta has ordered five De Havilland in- Development DNC-%15 water bombers, padding the manufacturer’s backlog as it works to develop and introduce the updated firefighting aircraft. De Havilland is producing the first three DHC-515s at its Calgary facilities and expects to have the type certificated in time to deliver the first to Greece in 2028. Alberta will spend $292 million to purchase the five aircraft and expects to receive the first in the spring of 2031, the province’s government said on 17 February when announcing the deal.

Alberta owns four of De Havilland’s earlier-generation CL-215 water bombers that were produced between 1986 and 1988, according to fleet data provider Cirium. The province intends to retain those aircraft, supplementing them with the incoming DHC-515s. “Increasingly, we are seeing fire season become more volatile here in Alberta and across Canada,” says Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. “The aircraft will help prevent fires from spreading into neighboring communities.”

Source : De Havilland, picture De Havilland

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

UAL Airlines Orders 300 GEnx Engines From GE Aerospace To Power Boeing 787s

United Airlines strengthened its long-term partnership with GE Aerospace by selecting 300 GEnx engines to power the new Boeing 787 Dreamliners. This order will expand UAL’s 787 fleet to more than 200 GEnx-powered aircraft and make it the largest GEnx operator globally. The deal enhances GE Aerospace’s revenue visibility; it will generate both engine sales and high-margin aftermarket services over the decades.

GE Aerospace designed the GEnx with advanced materials and technologies to deliver high durability, efficiency, and reliability. The engine has achieved a 99.98% dispatch reliability rate and accumulated more than 70 million flight hours, proving its strong operational performance. With this order, GE Aerospace increased its firm GEnx backlog to nearly 1,800 engines plus spares, strengthening its production pipeline and long term cash flow outlook.

UAl reinforced its reliance on GE Aerospace by expanding its use of GEnex engines across its growing Dreamliner fleet. The airline already operates several GE and CFM engine models, and greater fleet commonality will improve maintenance efficiency, reduce operational complexity, and lower lifecycle costs. The strategy will help United Airlines optimize its performance and support its international expansion plans.

Source: GE Aerospace,United Airlines

FlyDubai to Start Receiving More 737 Max 9s As Premium Demand Rises

Middle Eastern operator FlyDubai will start increasing its complement of Boeing 737 Maxs (this year, the larger variant accounting for more than half of the 12 Max jets it expects to receive in 2026. This year’s delivery total, which remains subject to manufacturer schedules, will comprise seven 737 Max 9s and five Max 8s. FlyDubai says the Max 9, of which it currently has only three, will enable the carrier to increase business-class capacity. Demand for business class on its flights was up 19% last year.

All 12 of last year’s deliveries were Max 8s, leaving the Flydubai fleet at 97 aircraft after it withdrew three older leased 737-800s. FlyDubai states that it ”finalized” a retrofit program for its 737-800s with a refit of eight more jets, taking the total to 25. FlyDubai is committing to further 75 Max jets plus 150 Airbus A321neos to expand and diversify its fleet.

Source: FlyDubai, picture FlyDubai

Air Canada to Acquire Airbus A350-1000 Widebody Aircraft

On February 11, Air Canada announced the next phase of its fleet modernization program with the addition of the Airbus A350-1000 wide-body aircraft. The airline will welcome eight aircraft to its fleet, and has rights to purchase eight other A350-1000s, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the second half of 2030.

Powered by the XWB97 engine from Rolls Royce and fabricated using lighter weight materials, it is estimated the aircraft will deliver up to a 25 per cent fuel consumption reduction compared to the previous generation aircraft’s estimated by Airbus.The a350-1000 has a potential range of approximately 9,000 nautical miles.

According to Airbus, aisle cabin available customers will experience the quietest twin-aisle cabin available.It is designed to be pressurized to only 6,000 feet to reduce stress on the body, minimize jet lag and deliver a noticeably more comfortable travel experience.

Source: Air Canada, picture Air Canada

LATEST NEWS

• Tigerair Taiwan has signed a purchase agreement for four Airbus A321neos, becoming the variant’s latest customer.
  

• Pratt & Whitney expects its recovery from the PW1000G geared turbofan(GTF) recall to run through the end of this decade, while insisting it is taking steps now to significantly improve the reliability of its powerplants.

• Thai Airways has confirmed it is in discussions to lease 10 Boeing 787-8s intended for fleet replacement.
  

• Royal Jordanian First Boeing 787-9 for Royal Jordanian from her maiden test flight taken at Charleston International.Reg: JY-RBA MSN 65114.
  

• United Airlines the first of 10 Boeing 737 Max 8s that will operate throughout United Airlines South Pacific network has arrived in Guam.
  
• Air Cambodia places a firm order for 10 Boeing Max 8s with options for 10More aircraft becoming the type’s newest customer.

• Boeing to modernize C-17 with open architecture under $266 million US Air Force contract.

• Vietjet has signed an aircraft financing agreement with US-based Griffin Global Asset Management for six Boeing 737 Max 8 jets.

Sources: Flight Global,Boeing,Pratt & Whitney, Griffn Global Asset Management,United Airlines

AIR CARGO

Airbus 350 Second Freighter Begins to Come Together

Airbus continues to progress the development of the A350 Freighter as it works towards the start of a 10-month, 400h flight-test campaign later this year. Its initial A350F prototype (MSN700) is largely complete, having completed an “Industrial roll-out” last November, and is now undergoing ground testing, says Crawford Hamilton, Airbus head of freighter marketing.

In addition, the Freighter’s 4.3m (169in)-wide main deck cargo door (MDCD) has yet to be installed, with the component still in final assembly, says Hamilton, adding: “We will be putting it on in the next few months.” Airbus aims to perform a maiden sortie of the first prototype later this year. Meanwhile, parts for the second prototype, MSN701, have begun arriving at the Airframes Toulouse final Assembly line. Service entry for the A350F is set for the second half of 2027, although Hamilton declines to say which customer will receive the first production aircraft.

Source: Airbus, picture  Airbus

DHL Prioritizes One Cargo Jets for Pharmaceuticals Transport

Global logistics DHL is reducing reliance on third-party carriers and commercial Airlines in favor of its own freighter aircraft to improve service and lower costs, for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and biologic shipments that require handling according to stringent standards. The recent introduction of a shuttle service between the DHL hubs in Brussels, Belgium and Cincinnati, utilizing a Boeing 777-300 converted freighter aircraft, marked the shift to a dedicated, DHL-operated airfreight refrigerated network,

The transportation company said. The cargo jet, which is operated several times per week by Michigan-based partner Kalitta Air, is painted with “Health Logistics,” a label to underscore the use of equipment set aside specifically for medical industry customers. The Midwest, where Cincinnati is located, is home to many healthcare company headquarters and manufacturing plants. Brussels is conveniently located near major drug-making clusters in Europe. Bringing the Pharma air logistics network fully in-house allows DHL to ensure logistics best practices are employed at every step of the journey from origin, handling, temperature-controlled airport processes, loading, and unloading the flight operations, and destination delivery.

Source: DHL, picture DHL

OTHER NOTEWORTHY NEWS

Last 787-8 Test Airplane Bows Out after Years of Breakthroughs

Boeing’s last 787-8 test airplane leaves a lasting legacy as it retires to the Arizona desert on February 11, 2026. While it has been pushed to and beyond the limits any Dreamliner might face in service, it established the performance, safety, and maintenance standards that guide every 787 in operation today. “To the casual observer, it looks like an old airplane, but it’s always been the future, said Capt. Heather Ross, who served as the Airplane’s first chief project Pilot and was at the controls one last time for its final takeoff from Boeing Field in Seattle.

Cap T. Heather Ross and Capt. Craig Bomben, who flew together on ZA004’s first flight, led the final flight crew. They were joined by Capt. Chris Caps, who served as an engineering systems operator on the Airplane’s first flight and is now a Boeing test pilot, and Elmo Valdez, a flight analyst who has supported ZA004 for many years. For the many employees who have supported the airplane, its departure is a bittersweet milestone they’ve been bracing for. “Sixteen years of service with The Boeing Company, that’s a legacy few test airplanes achieve,” said John Murphy, The 787 program’s chief Project engineer. The airplane’s original air-traffic callsign,” Boeing 004”, was used again for the airplane’s final flight to Pinal Airpark in Marana, Arizona, a long-term storage and reclamation facility.

Source:  Boeing, picture Boeing

 Researched and Compiled by : 

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor  

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian  

ALL THINGS BOEING

Alaska Airlines Orders 110 Boeing Aircraft, Including 105 & 37 Max 10s and Five 787s.

Boeing has landed a major new order with Alaska Airlines, committing to acquire105 737 Max 10s and five 787s; a deal the airline describes as the largest planned purchase in its history. Disclosed on 7 January, the deal includes 110 firm orders for the Max 10, a type not yet certificated by the Federal Aviation Administration, plus 35 options.

Boeing expects to receive certification for the largest member of the Max family this year. Alaska, which in 2024 acquired Hawaiian Airlines, says the coming jets will be delivered through 2035. The Seattle-based carrier is a loyal Boeing customer. The deal brings Alaska’s total number of jets on order with Boeing to 245, the air framer says.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Boeing Wins $2B Award To Modernize The B-52

Boeing has been awarded a $2 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force to continue development of the B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program. This next phase focuses on modifying and flight-testing two B-52 test aircraft to validate the upgrades before moving into full production. The new engines and systems will increase efficiency, range, and operational life, keeping the B-52 relevant into 2050 and beyond. The modifications will improve reliability, streamline maintenance, and lower life-cycle costs.

Teammates will install new Rolls-Royce F-130 commercial engines and other subsystem upgrades at the Boeing San Antonio modification facility in Texas. The two test aircraft will also receive upgrades to power generation and distribution, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, cockpit controls and displays, flight avionics, and onboard engine start capability. With these upgrades, the Air Force has given the modified airplanes a new name: B52J. It’s the first platform designation change since the H-model in 1961, marking how significant these changes are.

Source: Boeing,Picture Boeing

Boeing Landed 1,175 Jet Orders In 2025

Boeing ended 2025 on a high note, with its production lines churning out jets at rates not matched in years and with roaring demand for types like the 737 Max and 787. Customers last year ordered 1,175 Boeing jets, more than double the number of deals secured by the airframes in 2024, gains coming as President Donald Trump used Boeing orders as leverage during economic negotiations with US trading partners.

By comparison, Airbus landed orders for 1,000 jets last year. Boeing’s 1,175 commitments included 381 787s, up from just 63 in 2024. It is also the highest annual order total for the wide-body twin since 2007, when the manufacturer rolled out the first assembled 787. Customers also signed for 601 737s (versus 417 in 2024),15 767s (23), and 178 777s and 777X (66), Boeing said on 13 January. The company in 2025 also logged 100 cancellations. Boeing handed over 447 of the 737s in 2025, or 37 monthly on average. By comparison,  737s delivered 265 in 2024; it delivered 265 or 22 monthly.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

Airbus Exceeds Revised Delivery Target but Total Stays Below 800

Airbus delivered 793 commercial aircraft last year, just above its target of 790, although this had been a downward revision of its original aim of 820. The airframe took gross orders for exactly 1,000 aircraft, with a net figure of 889. Airbus managed to hand over 136 aircraft in December, its newly-released full-year backlog data shows. Its overall delivery total for the year comprised 700 single-aisle models, 607 A320neo family jets, and 93 A220s plus 57 A350s and 36 A330s.

These deliveries exceeded the 766 achieved in 2024, but remained behind the 831 figure of 2018 and the level of 863 met in 2019. Airbus commercial aircraft chief executive Cristian Scherer, speaking on 12 January, said the airframes’ ramp-up trajectory “ continues to move in the right direction.” Airbus’s firm agreements during December included 36 A350s, -900s for Spanish carrier Air Europa, six for Ethiopian Airlines, and five -1000s for China Airlines.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Embraer Full-year Commercial Jet Deliveries

Brazilian airframe Embraer delivered 78 commercial aircraft in 2025, edging into the lower end of its forecast. But it managed to achieve 155 executive jet deliveries, almost exceeding its guidance for the sector.

Embraer handed over 38 E195-E2s and six 1E190-E2s, fewer than the previous year, but E175 deliveries were stronger at 34 aircraft compared with the prior 26. Deliveries of the E175 in 2025 were up by 30% on the previous year. More than 40% of its commercial aircraft deliveries, a total of 32, were conducted in the fourth quarter. Along with the civil models, the company handed over a total of three KC-390 military transports and eight A29 Super Tucanos.

Source: Embraer, picture Embraer

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Delta Air Lines Orders up to 60 787 Dreamliners

Boeing and Delta Air lines on 13 January announced the U.S. placed its first direct order for up to 60 787 Dreamliners to support Long-haul international

Growth and renew the airline’s wide body fleet. Delta’s purchase of 30 787-10 jets with opportunity for up to 30 more of the latest 787 variant will enable the airline’s expansion and modernization platoon high-demand transatlantic and South A American routes.

“We are excited that Delta Air Lines has selected the 787-10 to join its fleet of the future. The 787 Dreamliner’s unmatched efficiency and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta’s international expansion and fleet modernization,” said Stephanie Pope,  “Our team looks forward to delivering new Dreamliners to Delta president and supporting their commitments to provide an exceptional passenger experience.

Source: Delta Airlines, Picture Boeing

LATAM Received First GEnx-Powered 787 Amid Fleet Renewal

LATAM Airlines Group’s renewal program has taken a big step forward, with theChilean company having received its first Boeing 787 powered by GE Aerospace GEnx turbofans. The acquisition comes as LATAM progresses with a fleet modernization and expansion plan following bankruptcy proceedings several years ago. The company is also shifting to operating 787s with GE-made turbofans after suffering reliability problems with the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000s that power the other 787s in its fleet.

“The aircraft departed from Charleston, South Carolina, to Santiago, Chile, and will be integrated into the group’s long-haul operations in the coming days,” LATAM said on 8 January. LATAM emerged from bankruptcy restructuring in November 2022. The following year, it ordered five GEnx-powered 787s, then in October 2024 added another 10 to its order book.

Source: LATAM, Picture LATAM

Ethiopian Signs for More 787-9s & 737 Max Jets 

Ethiopian Airlines is ordering another nine Boeing 787-9s, which will be delivered in the next decade. The Star Alliance carrier states that the twinsets will be introduced over the course of 2031-33.“This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service,” says Ethiopian Airlines Group chief Mesfin Tasew. Ethiopian says the 787 agreement was finalized in December, with a commitment to 11 more 737 Max jets, which were disclosed during the Dubai air show the previous month.

Source: Ethiopian Airlines, picture Ethiopian Airlines

In Brief

•  GE Aerospace commercial engine deliveries jumped 25% in 2025 amid supply chain recovery, with the company delivering 2,386 aircraft engines.

•  ANA, JAL Japan’s two largest operators, All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, expect to take delivery of their first Boeing 737 Max aircraft this year. They will disclose their network plans for the 2026 fiscal year beginning in April.
  
• United Airlines expects to take deliveries of 20 Boeing 787 jets this year, which it claims would be the most wide-body aircraft delivered to the carrier since 1988.

•  P-8A Sale US government has cleared the possible sale of Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol to Singapore. The possible package covers four aircraft as well as a range of systems, sensors, spare parts, and services. 
  

• Greater Bay Airlines Hong Kong-based airline, has put into commercial service its first Boeing 737 Max 9, days after taking delivery of the aircraft.
  
•  GE Aerospace on January 26, 2026, successfully demonstrated the company’s first ground test of a commercial electric engine demonstrator.
  
•   Lessor Aviation Capital Group has placed a fresh order for 50 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, adding to its existing commitments.
  
• Allegiant Air US ultra-low-cost carrier, to acquire Sun Country Airlines for $1billion through a cash and stock deal, creating a combined company with 195 aircraft serving 175 airports.

AIR CARGO

Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air Formally Unveils Cargo Division

Saudi Arabian start-up Riyadh Air has formally launched a freight operation to complement its passenger airline service. The new division, branded ‘Riyadh Cargo’, aims to capitalize on the capacity of the airline’s wide-body aircraft fleet, comprising up to 122 Boeing 787s and Airbus A350-1000s. Riyadh Air says it is taking a “ deliberate, phased approach” to build an integrated cargo business at its hub in the Saudi capital. The company’s global head of cargo, Previn Singh, says the brand launch is a“ foundational step” of the business.

“ Launching within a live environment allows us to test, learn, and continuously refine how we operate, while delivering real value to customers from the get-go,” he adds. Operations have been carried out on the Riyadh-London Heathrow route, with a new division transporting a diverse range of frieght including time-sensitive and perishable goods.

Source: Riyadh Air, picture Riyadh Air

UPS Retires Its Entire Fleet  Of MD-11F

US freight specialist UPS has retired its entire Boeing MD-11F fleet, the company disclosed in a full-year financial briefing. The company had 26 of the type in its fleet at the end of 2025. The company has accelerated its fleet modernization plans and completed the retirement of the aircraft during the fourth quarter. Chief financial officer Brian Dykes says the company made the decision to speed the MD-11F retirement after “learnings” gained during its operation during the end-of-year peak. “We leveraged the flexibility of our network to seamlessly operate through the peak season,” he says.

This effort included repositioning some aircraft to the US from other parts of the world, increasing volumes of cargo moved on the ground, and leasing additional aircraft capacity. Over the next 15 months, Dykes adds, the company will take delivery of 18 new Boeing 767s, including 15 this year, and will step down the leased fleet as these aircraft are introduced.UPS’s remaining owned and operated fleet comprised 269 aircraft at the end of 2025, including 43 Boeing 747-8F and-400,99 Boeing 767-300s, Boeing 75-200s, and 52 Airbus A300-600s.

Source: UPS, picture UPS

Researched and Compiled by : 

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor  

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian  

ALL THINGS BOEING

Boeing Distribution Launches Unified Ecommerce Platform

Boeing announced a key milestone to modernize and integrate its distribution businesses with the launch of a new, unified commerce website.  The new platform brings together Boeing Distribution’s portfolio of products and services into a streamlined digital destination, simplifying how customers and suppliers connect, transact and grow the company.

Over the past year, Boeing Distribution has implemented several key initiatives to strengthen operations and elevate the customer experience.  These include enhanced AOG (Aircraft on Ground) access for faster response times, an improved customer support model that streamlines communication and resolution, and implementation of a new state-of-the-art enterprise resource planning system to unify data, improve visibility, and support more efficient service.

“We want to simplify distribution services, maximize customer performance and be the preferred choice for customers and suppliers in the global distribution marketplace,” said William Ampofo, senior vice president, Parts & Distribution and Supply Chain, Boeing Global Services.” The new commerce website along with system and service enhancements represents a significant step forward in that vision. Together, these investments strengthen our foundation and position us for continued growth.”

“Our integration journey doesn’t stop here,” said Travis Sullivan,  Boeing Distribution vice president and general manager. Through innovation, operational excellence, and stronger supplier collaboration, we are building a modern, connected distribution business that improves the customer experience and provides the parts and services our global customers need, when and where they need them.”

 

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

 

Boeing Achieves Milestone With First Flight of KC-46 Tanker Equipped with Remote Vision System 2.0

Boeing has signaled progress with updating the KC-46 Pegasus tanker’s remote vision systems while it continues to look for sales opportunities in the Middle East.

The company has just flown the first KC-46 equipped with the new Remote Vision System 2.0(RVS 2), says Steve Parker, chief executive for Boeing Defense, Space & Security.  The flight took place despite rainy weather conditions in Seattle.  “That’s a huge milestone for the program”, says Parker.  “So, we’ll go into testing now and into 2026, and we’ll do contact testing eventually as well.”

RVS 2.0 aims to resolve issues with the aircraft’s existing system, which can be challenged by image distortion and poor responsiveness in changing light and shadows.  This can result in boom operators misaligning the boom or even damaging the receiving aircraft.

Unlike the KC-135, where the operator lies on his stomach and looks through a large window to guide the boom, the same process on the KC-46 is performed using a console in the cockpit.  This improves ergonomics and crew communications but requires a robust visit capability. Qatar is known to be a potential customer.  Parker also notes that the USAF has confirmed an acquisition of up to 75 additional aircraft.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Boeing Was Awarded a Contract for 15 Additional U.S. KC-46A Tankers

Boeing has been awarded a Lot 12 contract by the U.S. Air Force for 15 additional KC-46A Pegasus tankers, valued at $2.47 billion.“ Getting on contract helps ensure production stability, including our long-lead supply chain, to continue delivering the unmatched capability of the KC-46A,” said Jake Kwasnik, vice president and KC-46 program manager.

The U.S. KC-46A fleet has exceeded 150,000 flight hours, reflecting high utilization across training, operational sorties, and global deployment missions. There are 183 KC-46 A multi-mission aerial refuels on contract or in service globally, providing advanced capability advantages for the joint force and allies. This includes 98 delivered to the U.S. Air Force, six to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and four contracted for the Israel Air Force.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing                    

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

Airbus Cuts Full-year Delivery target by 30 Aircraft

Airbus has cut its full-year delivery target to 790 commercial aircraft, down from the original target of 828.  The airframer, which had already been dealing with substantial backloading, acknowledges that a “supplier quality issue” on A320neo fuselage panels is “impacting” the delivery flow. Airbus has not detailed the nature of the panel problem, nor the number of aircraft affected.  But the matter has added to pressure on the airframer, whose target of 820 deliveries had appeared ambitious when a shortage of engines meant it had to park dozens of otherwise-completed aircraft at the mid-year point. Backloading of production has been characteristic of Airbus’s delivery profile for several years.

Over the pre-pandemic period from 2015 to 2019, the airframer achieved between 62.9% and 70.2% of its eventual full-year deliveries over the first nine months.  Airbus had delivered 507 aircraft by the end of September this year, which equated to a lower proportion, 61.8%, of its intended 2025 target, although the company has recently increased capacity by opening new production lines at Mobile and Tianjin.

The delivery figure had reached 585 aircraft by the end of October, and the airframer would have needed to hand over 235 jets in the last two months.  Airbus is maintaining its full-year financial guidance despite the reduced delivery target. The company overall is expecting adjusted earnings of $8.1 billion.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus

Airbus A320neo Panel Quality Centers On Thickness Deviations: EASA

Airbus’s quality issue with panels on the A320neo family centers on possible deviations in the thickness of various structures delivered to the airframer.  The manufacturer had cited the panel problem when it revised its full-year delivery target downwards-from 820 to 790 commercial aircraft on 3 December.

Airbus issued an Operator bulletin on 16 December listing the serial numbers of aircraft potentially affected.  The European Union Aviation Safety Agency states that the issue centers on the fuselage section 12, the structure in the region of the forward passenger door.  EASA  says the deviations from the specified thickness in combination with “ certain repair conditions could affect structural integrity.

It has ordered a visual inspection and full panel thickness measurement, as well as the implementation of corrective actions.  EASA’s directive applies to different variants of the single-aisle family, from the A319neo to the A321neo, but does not list the A321XLR.

Sources: Airbus, FlightGlobal, Picture Airbus            

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Luxair Receives First of Six Embraer 195-E2s

Luxair has taken delivery of its first Embraer 195-E2 regional jet, one of six due to be introduced at the carrier.  The airline says the twinjet will be put into service early in 2026.  It has firm orders for six more, which the airline unveiled an agreement for four in 2023, and augmented it with two more last year and holds options for another three.

Luxair had previously stated that the E2 would be fitted with 136 seats in a single-class layout.

The aircraft (LX-LEA) was flown from Embraer’s facility near São Paulo, via Recife and Gran Canaria, to Luxembourg over 28-29 November 2025.  As our CEO Gilles Feith said, “Arrival of the first E195-E2 is a decisive step into Luxair’s future,” adding that the twinjet will strengthen competitiveness and reduce environmental impact.

Source: Luxair, picture Luxair

Bombardier Hands Over First Global 8000

On December 8, 2025, Bombardier celebrated the entry into service of its new flagship, the Global 8000, with a ceremony marking the first delivery of the ultra-long-range business jet at the company’s aircraft assembly center in Toronto.  The twinjet received certification from Transport Canada last month; FAA and EASA approvals are pending.

Following a performance by Canadian rock musician Tom Cochrane, in front of an audience of company employees, government officials, suppliers, media, and special guests, Patrick Dovigi, a long-time Bombardier customer, took possession of the aircraft, which will supplant his Global 7500.“   Pride and excitement only begin to describe what the entry into service of theGlobal 8000 means for all 18,000 of us at Bombardier,” said company president and CEO Eric Martel.

“This revolutionary aircraft is redefining the business aviation landscape with its innovative design, signature smooth ride, unmatched performance, and a promise fulfilled to our customers.”  First announced at EBACE 2022, the global 8000 is now the fastest in-service civil aircraft, with a range of 8,000 nm, opening up more nonstop city pairs.  According to Bombardier, the advanced design of its wing, which features slats, gives it “takeoff and landing performance comparable to that of a light jet.”

Source: Bombardier, Picture Bombardier

  OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Boeing Completes 737 ‘eco Demonstrator’ Technology Trials of Internet-Based Communications Technology

Boeing recently completed its 2025 “ecoDemonstrator” technology evaluation program using a 737 Max 8 as a platform to test advanced internet-based communication technologies.  The Company used the aircraft, provided by United Airlines, to “evaluate a modernized data communication system” using Internet Protocol Suite standards and transmitted via satellite links, Boeing says.

Boeing used this 737 Max 8 operated by United Airlines to complete its 2025 ‘ecoDemonstrator’ program.“  The internet-based communications aim to enhance operational efficiency and flight safety while reducing air traffic congestion, fuel use, cost, and emissions,” the company adds.  Internet-based communications also provide tighter cybersecurity, Boeing says.

The program involved nine flights piloted by United crew. Between 29 October and 2 November, the aircraft flew from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental airport.  It was then flown to Edinburgh in Scotland for additional flights on 6 and 7 November.“The data collected from these flight tests will be used by the Standards Committees to enact changes for a technical framework and for future implementation,” Boeing says.

Boeing handled technology integration for the project. Collins Aerospace supplied connectivity and avionics software, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University managed a Federal Aviation Administration contract covering the testing, and Honeywell supplied prototype avionics software.  The Team used satellite communications software from Thales and Viasat’s Communications services.

Sources: Boeing, United Airlines, Picture Boeing

United Strikes Sale-Leaseback Deals With SMBC Aviation Capital

United Airlines has agreed to sale-leaseback transactions involving 20 incomingBoeing 737 Max 9s with lessor SMBC Aviation Capital.  The Irish lessor disclosed the sale-leaseback agreements, which apply to Max 9s delivered in late 2025 and 2026, on 10 December. It is the lessor’s third such deal with United, including a deal last year covering the lease of 20 Airbus A321neos from SMBC Aviation Capital’s order bookend sale-leaseback transactions of 20 737 Max 8s.

Michael Leskinen, United’s chief financial officer, says the latest agreement“ Supports our fleet strategy” and the Chicago-headquartered carrier’s ongoing fleet modernization efforts.  Fleet data provided by aviation analytics firm Cirium shows that United has 115 737Max 9 jets in service and another 108 on order.  United, a major Boeing customer, holds orders for 275 of the airframer’s latest-generation narrowbody jets, including 737 Max 8s and 9s, and still-uncertificated Max 10s, according to Cirium.  The Carrier boasts an operational fleet of more than 1,000 aircraft.

Sources: Boeing, Aviation Analytics Firm Cirium

    IN BRIEF

• Flybondi Argentinean low-cost operator, is to acquire up to 35 single-aisle aircraft, a mix of Airbus A220s and Boeing 737 Max jets.

• Canada Bombardier is to supply six Global 6500 business jets to the Royal Canadian Air Force(RCAF) under a $546 million contract.
• KLM Cityhopper has started operating Embraer 195-E2 twinsets with increased capacity.
• Boeing delivers B-52 with New Radar to the U.S. Air Force for testing.  Modernization efforts will advance platform capabilities into 2050 and beyond.
• FAA certifies the Bombardier Global 8000, the company’s flagship ultra-long-range aircraft and the fastest business jet in production, at Mach 0.95.
• Rise Air Canadian passenger and cargo carrier, has taken delivery of its first ATR 72-600, becoming the latest-generation turboprop’s launch customer in the country.

Sources: Bombardier, KLM, Boeing, Flybondi

AIR CARGO

Air Atlanta Icelandic to Operate Fly Meta Converted 777-300ER

Air Atlanta Icelandic is to operate a converted Boeing 777-300ER on behalf of cargo company Hungary Airlines.  The Twinget converted by Israel Aerospace Industries as 777-300ERSF is being supplied to Hong Kong-based lessor Fly Meta.  Fly Meta emerged as a customer for the 777-300ERSF in early 2023 when Irish Lessor AerCap disclosed that it would provide four of the cargo jets to the company.

AerCap is a partner of IAI on the freighter conversion program.  It states that it delivered the first 777-300ERSF to Fly Meta on 21 November.  While Fly Meta had originally been set to receive four of the aircraft,  AerCap indicates that it will supply three, with the second and third set to arrive respectively in the second and fourth quarters of 2016.

The 777s will be operated under a crew, maintenance, and insurance by Air Atlanta Icelandic, flying on behalf of Hungary Airlines.

Source: Air Atlanta Icelandic

                       

Researched and Compiled by :

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian

ALL THINGS BOEING

First Australian P-8A Poseidon Arrives in the US For Modification

Boeing has received the first of 12 Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) P-8A Poseidon aircraft to receive a modification known as Increment 3 Block 2. It comes as the RAAF recently welcomed its 13th P-8A Poseidon to its fleet at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.

Why it matters: Along with a significant upgrade to the submarine hunter’s airframe and avionics systems, this modification includes new airframe racks, radome, antennas, sensors, and wiring, ensuring the P-8A remains the most capable maritime patrol aircraft in the world.

Paired with the arrival of the 13th P-8A, these enhancements will improve fleet readiness and operational reach. Two of the 12 aircraft will be upgraded at  Boeing’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility in Jacksonville, Florida.

• The first of those two arrived on September 25. 

• The remaining 10 aircraft will be completed by Boeing Defense Australia at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

• The delivery of the 13th aircraft on September 29 marked the first P-8A delivery to the RAAF in six years.

• The 14th and final Poseidon for the RAAF is scheduled for delivery in 2026.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Boeing Finalizes $ 10.6bn Sale of Digital Businesses to Thoma Bravo

Boeing has sold several businesses to investment firm Thoma Bravo, closing a deal that injects fresh cash into the company and reflects a plan by Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg to sharpen Boeing’s strategic focus. The aircraft manufacturer announced on November 3 that it had finalized the divestitures through an all-cash sale of $10.55 billion to Thoma Bravo. Ortberg also says the sale will help Boring maintain its investment-grade credit rating.

Assets divested include Boeing’s aircraft management software provider AerData& flight-service information providers ForeFlight, Jeppesen, and OzRunways. Boeing had housed those businesses under its Boeing Global Services division. The sale reflects Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg’s intention to shift Boeing’s focus more toward its prime business of aircraft manufacturing.

Source: Boeing

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

Airbus Trims A220 Production Targets Over Supply & Demand Considerations

Airbus has lowered its target for A220 production rates, aiming for 12 aircraft per month next year, down from 14. The airframer attributed the decision to the “current balance between supply and demand”.Airbus has taken net orders for just 36 A220s over the first nine months of this year, but has delivered 62 of the twinjets. The backlog for the A220 stood at 490 aircraft at the end of September. Airbus says the situation has led to an “adjustment of the ramp-up trajectory”. But the manufacturer’s other aircraft production plans remain unchanged.

It is still aiming for $75 per month on the A320neo family in 2027, and $12 per month for the A350 in 2028. The airframer also confirms the A330 monthly rate will stay at four aircraft until 2029 when it rises to five. Airbus chief executive Guillaume Faury says the complex and dynamic operating environment means deliveries are still backlogged. The company handed over 507 commercial jets in the first nine months of the year, including 33 A350s and 20 A330s. But Airbus is maintaining its full-year delivery target of 820 aircraft.

Source: Airbus, picture Airbus

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Supply Shortages No Longer Hindering Embraer’s 2025 Production Plans

Supply chain troubles will not affect Embraer’s ability to hit its 2025 aircraft delivery target, with chief executive Francisco Gomes Net saying the company already has all components needed to meet its goal. That means reaching the target rests on how fast Embraer can move jets through its production facilities. The risk for the supply chain in 2025…is over”, Gomes Net said on 4 November when Embraer disclosed its third-quarter financial results. “We have all the parts we need to assemble the aircraft. Now, it’s up to us.” 

Source: Embraer

Pilatus Resumes U.S. Deliveries Despite Tariff Penalty

After previously announcing a temporary hit to U.S. deliveries of its PC12 single-engine turboprop and PC-24 twinjet in August, due to 39% tariffs imposed on Swiss products by the U.S. government, Pilatus has committed to resuming deliveries to U.S. customers. Earlier in November, Pilatus handed over the first PC-12 Pro for a U.S. customer. A Pilatus spokesman told AIN, “ For the time being, Pilatus will honor its contractual responsibilities towards its U.S. clients and dealers by ensuring deliveries to the USA until the end of 2025. PC-12 and PC-24 ferry flights to the USA have therefore resumed. Intensive discussions have been held with U.S.sales partners and end customers to seek transit solutions concerning handling trade tariffs.” Next year, Pilatus will open a new service center at Florida’s Sarasota International Airport. Eventually, the company plans to build a final assembly plant there for aircraft slated to go to buyers in North and South America. 

Sources: Pilatus, AIN, Picture Pilatus                                                               

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Turkish Airlines Picks GEnx to Power Latest Batch of Boeing 787s

Turkish Airlines has selected GE Aerospace GEnx engines to power a new batch of Boeing 787s that the company has chosen to purchase. The carrier had been in negotiations with GE and Rolls-Royce after disclosing its plan to purchase 50 firm and 25 optioned 787s. Turkish has split the firm part of the agreement between the 787 9 for which it will take 35, and the larger 787-10. The airline says ”negotiations have been concluded” over the acquisition of engines and maintenance services. Turkish Airlines says deliveries of the additional 787s are scheduled to take place from 2029 to 2034.

Source: TUI Airlines, Picture TUI

First P-8A Anti-Submarine Warfare Aircraft Arrives in Germany 

Germany’s first Boeing P-8A Poseidon anti-submarine warfare aircraft has arrived at its permanent home. The 737-based jet was flown to Berlin-Brandenburg airport on 7 November by a flight crew from Germany’s Naval Aviation Squadron 3, who ferried the aircraft from Boeing’s delivery center in Seattle, Washington. 

German defense minister Boris Pistorius was on hand for the flight’s arrival, which marks the first of eight P-8As ordered by Berlin to replace the Lockheed P-3C Orion Maritime patrol aircraft.“Today, our naval aviators are literally switching from propeller to jet propulsion,” says Pistorius, who describes Poseidon’s arrival as a new era for German naval aviation.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing         

In Brief

• Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s flag carrier, selects up to 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners to expand its global network.
• Sweden has formally signed for a future fleet of four Embraer C-390 tactical transports.

• Alaska Air Group has secured a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.

• Greek Carrier Aegean has ordered a further two ATR 72-600 turboprops, as its Olympic Air subsidiary introduces its latest of the type.

*  Uzbekistan Airways has converted eight options for Boeing 787-9 aircraft into firm Orders.

• Air Senegal announced on 17 November that the West African carrier has committed to order nine 737 Max airplanes.

• Gulf Air Bahrain’s flag carrier has firmed an agreement with Boeing for 15 Boeing 787s.

Sources: E.Kaplanian Research

AIR CARGO

Sun Country Completes Expansion To 20 737 Freighters For Amazon Cargo

Minneapolis-based low-cost carrier Sun Country Airlines is now operating a full 20-strong fleet of Boeing 737-800s on behalf of US logistics firm Amazon, capping a period focused on cargo growth. Sun Country completed its cargo expansion during the third quarter, executives said during the company’s 30 October earnings call, acknowledging the challenges of quickly integrating eight narrowbody jets over several months.“Adding eight additional aircraft to our fleet was truly a team effort, and represents a 14% increase in our total fleet,” says Torque Zubeck, Sun Country’s Chief Financial Officer. Sun Country says that as of 30 September, it operates 45 737s in its passenger fleet and 20 737 Freighters.

It also owns five aircraft on lease to other airlines.

Source: Sun Country, Picture Sun Country.

Air China Cargo Discloses A350 Freighter Plan

Air China Cargo has outlined plans to order up to 10 Airbus A350 Freighters, in a deal valued at up to $4.65 billion at list prices. Disclosed in a notification to the Shenzhen stock exchange, Air China Cargo says the commitment will consist of six firm orders plus four options. Deliveries are scheduled to run over the 2029-2031 period. Although already approved by the carrier’s board, its shareholders still have to approve the order via a vote at its annual general meeting.

Air China Cargo says the commitment is “in line with the company’s development plan and market demand and is conducive to long-term stable operation.”

Should the order proceed, it will be a welcome boost for the A350F program, replacing cancelled or reduced commitments this year from Air Lease and Air France-KLM, which cut a total of nine aircraft from the backlog.

Source: FlightGlobal, Picture Airbus

Researched and Compiled by : 

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor  

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian  

 

ALL THINGS BOEING

Boeing Delivers the First P-8A Poseidon for the German Navy

Boeing has handed over the German navy’s first P-8A Poseidon to Berlin’s BAAINBw defense procurement body, ahead of the maritime patrol aircraft’s expected transfer to Europe during November.  Accepted in Seattle, Washington, on the 1st of October, the modified narrowbody is the first of eight P-8As on order for Germany, which will field the type in place of its departing Lockheed Martin P-3C Orions.

Germany ordered five P-8As in June 2021, before signing for a further three examples in November 2023.  Once introduced, the Poseidon fleet will be employed for maritime surveillance, and anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare tasks, along with providing support for search and rescue activities.  Germany will follow fellow European NATO members Norway and the UK in fielding the P-8A, with those nations respectively having five and nine examples in use.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Norwegian Group Places New Order for Boeing 737 Max

Boeing and Norwegian Group announced on September 26, 2025, that the airline group has placed an order for 30 737 Max 8 airplanes as the airline looks to expand its service across Europe.  The agreement represents the group’s first direct order since 2017 and increases its 737 MAX order book to 80 airplanes.  Norwegian has predominantly operated Boeing Single-aisle planes since placing its first order for the Next-Generation 737-800 in 2007.

It was the first European airline to take delivery of the 737 MAX in 2017 and was also the first airline to operate the 737 MAX-8 model on transatlantic routes between Europe and the U.S.  In 2022, Norwegian restructured its order book, firming its commitment to 50 737 Max 8s with options for an additional 30 airplanes.

Source: Boeing

Turkish Airlines Orders Up to 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners

Boeing and Turkish Airlines announced on September 25, 2025, a firm order for up to 75 787 Dreamliners, the flag carrier’s largest ever Boeing widebody purchase.   The deal includes 35 of the 787 9 model, 15 of the larger 787 10 and options for 25 787 Dreamliners to grow and modernize the airline’s fleet.  Turkish has yet to reach a decision on an engine selection, but is conducting negotiations with Rolls-Royce for the Trent 1000 and GE Aerospace for the GEnex-1B. These talks also include maintenance agreements for spares and servicing.

The airline also announced its intention to purchase up to 150 more 737 Max airplanes, which will be its largest Boeing single-aisle order when finalized.  The 787 and 737 Max orders combined will double Turkish Airlines’ Boeing fleet as the carrier expands its capacity and network.

Sources: Boeing, Turkish Airlines, Picture Boeing                  

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

Airbus Adds 10 More A350s, Including Private Jets, to the Order Total

Airbus has secured orders for 10 more A350-900s, eight of which are for an unidentified customer.  The remaining two are both listed against a private, also unidentified customer.  Airbus has landed a total of 1,019 orders for the A350-900.  Airbus has yet to identify customers for a total of 33 A350s, including 7 -1000s and three freighters.

The 10 A350s were the only order agreements listed by the airframer for September.  But they took Airbus’s net total for the first nine months of the year to 514 aircraft.  Airbus delivered 73 aircraft during the period, bringing overall deliveries for the year to 507.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus.

Airbus Formally Opens Second Mobile A320-family Assembly Line

Airbus has formally opened its second A320-family final assembly line at its plant in Mobile.  The airframer’s latest assembly facility is part of its effort to raise monthly production of A320neo-family jets to 75 in 2027.

Airbus’s North America chief, Robin Hayes, had stated in September that the second line was on course to start operating in October.  Aircraft painting specialist MAAS Aviation has also extended its contract with Airbus for painting A320-family and A220 jets in Mobile.

Source: Airbus            

        

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Lessor TrueNoord Places First Direct Order for Embraer Jets

Dutch-based regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord has ordered up to 40 Embraer 195-E2 twinjets, the company’s first direct order with a manufacturer.  The lessor’s pact covers 20 firm aircraft, plus purchase rights for a further 20 and up to 10 new-build Embraer 175s.  TrueNood chief Anne-Bart Tieleman describes the deal as a “ landmark agreement” for the leasing firm.  No delivery dates have been disclosed, but TrueNoord values the firm order part at $1.8 billion, using catalog prices.

“It marks an important stepping stone in our continued growth as a global leasing platform, underlining our commitment to investing in next-generation, fuel-efficient regional jets,” Tieleman adds.

TrueNoord has a portfolio of around 100 regional aircraft, including jets and turboprops, with a substantial number acquired from fellow lessor Nordic Aviation Capital.

Source: TrueNoord, Picture TrueNoord

                                                                       

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Lufthansa Prepares to Receive this Month 787-9 with New Color Scheme

Lufthansa is to take delivery this month of a Boeing 787-9 painted in a special color scheme to mark the German flag-carrier’s centenary.  The twinjet (D-ABPU) has received the new livery at Boeing’s Charleston facility.  Lufthansa says the aircraft will enter service in December, ahead of the 2026 anniversary commemorations, and “act as a flying ambassador”.  The scheme features a blue fuselage with a full-length white representation of the airline’s logo.

Lufthansa says the design means the bird’s wings coincide with those of the 787, meaning the aircraft’s wing “ virtually became wings of the crane”.  The fuselage also carries the figure “100” on the left and the dates ‘1926’ and ‘2026’ on the right.  There is also a ‘100’ logo on the underside.  Lufthansa Airlines chief Jens Ritter says the livery “honors our identity” and “ stands for a proud team of Lufthansa employees who give everything day for the safety and well-being of our guests”.  As part of the anniversary plans, Lufthansa Group is displaying vintage aircraft from its heritage fleet.

Source: Lufthansa, Picture Lufthansa   

Safran to Support Leap ramp-up with New Moroccan Engine Production Line

French aerospace firm Safran is to establish a new CFM International Leap engine production facility in Morocco, to support its ramp-up plans for the power plant.  Located in Casablanca, it will complement the French manufacturing site at Villaroche and have the capacity to build up to 350 engines annually.  The Leap-1A is an option on the Airbus A320neo family, while the Leap-1B exclusively powers the Boeing 737 Max.  Leap-1C engines are fitted to the Chinese Comac C919.

Safran intends to open the $233 million plant by the end of 2027.  With both Airbus and Boeing aiming to increase single-aisle aircraft output, the new Moroccan site will support ambitions to raise annual Leap production to 2,500 from 2028.  Safran confirmed its plan for the facility during a launch ceremony for a Leap maintenance center, also in Casablanca.

Source: Safran

Denmark Considers Boeing P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft

Denmark’s top defense official says the country is exploring options for acquiring a fleet of Boeing P-8A maritime patrol aircraft.  Speaking to local Danish broadcaster TV2 on 15 September, the defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen said Copenhagen will invest billions of euros to field an unspecified number of the US-made jets to monitor the waters around Greenland.

Denmark may pursue the acquisition alone or in conjunction with other NATO allies.  “I would prefer that we cooperate with other NATO countries to get the most for the money and to have a greater degree of flexibility,” Poulsen says.  “But if that is not possible, I am also willing for us to acquire the P-8 aircraft capacity ourselves.”And since Greenland, which is a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark,   Copenhagen has responsibility for the defense of Greenlandic territory.  Poulsen stated, “We need a better picture of what is happening around Greenland and the Faroe Islands”.

Source: Denmark, picture Boeing   

      

IN BRIEF

• Joramco opened a new (129,000 square feet) hangar at Queen Alia International Airport on September 8.  The $30 million investment is expected to boost Joramco’s annual capacity by about 30% and give it the capability to handle up to 240 aircraft of varying sizes in Amman, Jordan.
• Turkish Technic was selected by Garuda Indonesia to provide A330 and 777 landing gear overhaul.
•  Norwegian Chief Executive Geir Karlsen is continuing to see improvements in the quality of service the Scandinavian carrier is receiving from Boeing as it adds more Max 8s to its fleet.

AIR CARGO

Northern Air Cargo to Connect Seattle and Anchorage

In a bid to provide more same-day shipping connectivity to rural Alaskan Communities, Northern Air Cargo (NAC) launched a Seattle-to-Anchorage flights last month.  The Anchorage-based cargo carrier started to fly from Seattle Tacoma International airport to Ted Stevens Anchorage International airport three times weekly starting began the service on 5 October, using its lone Boeing 737-800.

NAC uses a fleet of cargo-converted 737s to deliver freight throughout its Alaskan network, including a 737-800 originally operated by Aeromexico.  The new Seattle-Anchorage route will all provide Alaskan companies shipping halibut, salmon and other seafood with “timely Southbound access to Pacific Northwest markets”.

Source: NAC picture NAC

British Cargo Carrier Maiden 777F

British cargo carrier One Air took delivery of its first Boeing 777-200 LRF on August 25.  The General Electric GE90-powered freighter G-ONEG joined the East Midland based airline’s all 747 fleet which comprises a pair of 747-433BDSFs and a single nose-loading 747-428ERF.  The twinjet was ferried from Paine Field to Cardiff arriving on August 27 and entered service on September 5.  According to ch-aviation, the aircraft being leased from Moldovan airline Aerotranscargo.

Source: ch-aviation, Picture One Air

                         

Researched and Compiled by :

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor 

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian 

ALL THINGS BOEING

Boeing Deliveries to August Exceed Full-Year 2024

Boeing achieved its highest August deliveries in seven years, bringing the total for the first eight months to 385, a figure that exceeds the 348 recorded across the whole of last year.  It handed over 57 aircraft in August, its second-best monthly performance this year, just shy of the 60 achieved in June.

Boeing delivered 42 737 Max jets, including seven for Irish budget carrier Ryanair, according to its latest backlog figures.  Boeing’s deliveries in August included a 787-9, which took American’s mainline fleet to 1,000 aircraft.

Boeing’s 777F deliveries included its 300th example, which was handed over to Emirates.  Two other airframes—a 767 and an older variant 737 — are delivered for the military E-7 and KC-46 programs.  Along with the 14 777Xs ordered by Cathay Pacific, Boeing recorded agreements for 787s; two from Air New Zealand and five from an unidentified customer, as well as five 737Max jets. It also shifted 59 orders from its accounting bucket to the formal backlog, and cancelled 737 Max, bringing its overall net total to 83 for the month.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Singapore Has Confirmed Plans to Acquire Four P-8A Poseidon

Singapore has confirmed plans to acquire four Boeing P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol aircraft; it seeks to bolster its anti-submarine capabilities.  Singapore’s decision to obtain the 737-derivative was made in a brief statement about a meeting between Singapore’s defense minister Chan Chun Sing and US war secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington, DC.

The language in the release hints that Singapore may go beyond four aircraft.  “They will replace the existing Fokker 50s, which have been in service since 1993.  Cirium, an aviation analytics company, indicates that the Republic of Singapore’s Air Force operates five Fokker 50s in the maritime Patrol role, with an average age of 31.2 years.  Four Fokker 50s also serve in the utility transport role.

Source: FlightGlobal

EASA Approves Installation of Drag-reduction Fins On 737 Variants

Operators of European-registered Boeing 737s will be able to install aerodynamic fins on the aft fuselage following validation of a US supplemental type certificate. The ‘finlets’ developed by Vortex Control Technologies have been approved by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.EASA’s clearance covers the modification of 737-700,-800, and -900 ER variants.

Aircraft can experience drag from airflow separation and vortices in the vicinity of the aft fuselage.  Modification with a patented array of fins fixed to the fuselage skin can alter the airflow and reduce this drag, offering improved fuel efficiency.  Vortex Control Technologies chief Gil Morgan says the EASA validation is a “culmination of years of research, development and collaboration”.  It allows the company to expand the availability of its fins to European airlines.

Source: Vortex Control Technologies, Picture Vortex Control Technologies.

                    

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

Airbus Reveals Order for Seven More A350-1000s

Airbus has secured an order for seven A350-1000s from an undisclosed customer, the airframer’s latest backlog data reveals. The agreement was formally listed on 22 August and brought Airbus’s gross orders for this year to a round figure of 600.

Airbus’s largest A350 variant has secured 69 orders this year-and the latest deal takes overall firm A350-1000 commitments to 361, one in four of all passenger A350 orders.  August is normally a quiet month for the manufacturer.

It recorded Lessor Avolon’s agreement for 90 aircraft, including 15 A330-900s, as well as two private customer orders, each for a single A320neo.  There were no cancellations, which means Airbus net orders for the first months of the year reached 504.  Airbus is still catching up on deliveries, listing total of 434 aircraft hands over in 2025 compared with 447 reached at the same point last year.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus        

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Avelo Airlines Shifts Fleet Strategy

US start-up discount carrier Avelo Airlines has ordered 50 Embraer E195-E2s in a move that will see the airline evolve beyond operating only Boeing 737s.  Avelo has taken options to order a further 50 of the jets, Embraer’s head of commercial aviation Arjan Meijer said on 10 September during an event in Washington, DC.  Meijer notes the order will see Avelo become the USA’s first E195-E2 operator.

The order “gives us a pipeline of aircraft we can rely on”, says Avelo chief executive Andrew Levy, noting the airline intends to acquire the jets through 2032.  Avelo now operates 22 Boeing 737NGS. “A smaller airplane would optimize the opportunity that we have,” says Levy.  News of the order comes days after Avelo said it had secured additional financing, which it says is its highest total since its Series A funding round in 2020.

Source: Avelo                                                                      

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

South Korea’s T’way Air to Rebrand as Trinity Airways

Low-cost operator T’way Air will be rebranded as Trinity Airways as part of a broader revamp of its corporate identity, under the new ownership of Sono Hospitality Group.  The “sequential rebranding” will take place from the first half of 2026,  according to a notice on the South Korean operator’s website.  T’way’s current red, green, and white color scheme will be changed to a neutral color palette aligned with the Sono corporate identity.  An artist’s impression of the new livery on an Airbus A330-900 was released.  T’way will be taking delivery of the first of five A330neos in 2026.

“Beginning with the implementation of a new mission and a Comprehensive brand identity, we will complete the transformation of the customer touchpoint and solidify the unified image and synergy of the entire group,” states Sono.  Sono in February emerged as the new owners of T’way, after successfully acquiring 46% shareholding in the airline from YeaRim Dang Publishing and related parties.

Sources: T’way Air, Picture T’way

WestJet Expands Fleet with A New Order

Canadian discount airline WestJet has ordered  67 new aircraft from Boeing, comprising 60 737 Max 10s and seven 787-9s.  The Calgary-based airline disclosed the order on September 3, stating it has also secured options for an additional 25 Max 10s and four 787s.  The agreement was recorded in June on Boeing’s website as an undisclosed customer.  Boeing has not disclosed a value for the deal or delivery timeline for the aircraft.

“With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada and will double our fleet of Dreamliners, underpinning our growth plans,” says chief executive Alexis von Hoensbroech.  “These highly efficient and comfortable aircraft are critical to the growth and renewal of our fleet and will also significantly improve our fuel consumption.”

WestJet is an all-Boeing airline that operates 147 737s and seven 787s, according to fleet data provider Cirium.

Before the deal disclosed on 3 September, WestJet held unfilled orders with Boeing for 62 737 Max aircraft: eight Max 8s, 7 Max 10s, and seven of an unspecified variant, Cirium shows.

Sources: WestJet, Cirium, picture WestJet

Air Lease(ALC) to be acquired by SMBC Investor Group

Steven Udvar-Hazy, founder and lessor of Air Lease(ALC), is to be acquired by a consortium of investors, including rival SMBC Aviation Capital, in a 1.4 billion cash deal that promises to shake up the aircraft leasing market.  Working alongside Sumitomo Corporation, one of its Japanese owners, and private equity firms Apollo and Brookfield Credit, SMBC says the definitive agreement has been approved by ALC’s board.

It will pay stockholders $65 per share, valuing All at $7.4 billion. However, this rises to $28.s billion if debt obligations to be assumed or refinanced are included, net of cash.  At the end of the second quarter, ALCDeliveries are scheduled through 2031.   They hold firm orders for 241 aircraft: 36 Airbus A220s,130 A320/A321neos, a single A330neo, 64 737 Max jets, and 10 787-9/10s, financial filings show.

Source: FlightGlobal.

IN BRIEF

• Air Canada has identified the first new route on which it will deploy its incoming Airbus A321XLR.
• Luxair is confident of commencing Embraer 195-E2 operations in January next year.
• Silk Way West Airlines has welcomed its third Boeing 777 Freighter to Baku on 2nd September.
• Alaska Airlines is set to launch seasonal flights from Seattle to Reykjavik on 28 May and continue through 8 September.
• Macquarie AirFinance has increased its commitment to the 737 Max with an order for an additional 30 jets.
• Sources: Air Canada, Luxair, Silk Way West Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Macquarie        

      

AIR CARGO

Initial A350F Aft Fuselage Transferred to Toulouse Final Assembly

Construction of Airbus’s initial A350 freighter is progressing with the arrival of its aft fuselage at the Toulouse final assembly line.  The first fully equipped aft section for MSN700 has been transferred from the airframer’s Hamburg facilities.  Airbus senior vice-president of marketing Joost van der Heijden says the forward, center, and aft sections of the fuselage have “moved in” with the wings; “they are now ready to be assembled in the coming weeks,” he adds in a social media post.

Airbus’s Ar50 has a slightly shorter fuselage than the A350-1000 passenger aircraft, from which it has been derived. It will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, and the airframer intends entry into service in the second half of 2027. French logistics firm CMA CGM is set to be the launch operator of the type.

Source: Airbus, picture Airbus

Kalitta Air Takes Delivery of First Pair of 777-300ERSF Freighters

Kalitta Air has taken delivery of the first two Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters US and Israeli certification of the modified twin jets.  The Michigan-based carrier will become the launch operator of the aircraft is leasing the jets from AerCap Cargo. Israel Aerospace Industries developed the -300ERSF through a joint program, initially with Lessor GECAS and subsequently with AerCap after it merged with GECAS.

One of the two aircraft handed over to Kalitta Air is the certification prototype.  They are part of an agreement which will cover seven of the twinsets.  Kalitta Air will use them to replace older Boeing 747 freighters.  The -300ERSF, which has a 100t payload capacity, is one of several freighter conversion programs initiated by various companies for the -300ER and-200ER variants.

IAI’s modification is the first of the 300ERSF programs to obtain certification.  Kalitta Air plans to place both aircraft into revenue operation early this month, says AerCap, with further deliveries taking place “over the coming weeks”.

Source: FlightGlobal, picture Kalitta Air

Researched and Compiled by :

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor 

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian 

All Things Boeing

Boeing Orders Lifted by 737 Max Agreements

Boeing secured agreements for 30 737 Max jets in July, attributed to unidentified customers, while the overall order total for the month was boosted by the formal recognition of 33 other aircraft in the backlog. Boeing also recorded a single 787 order, offset by the cancellation of an Iraqi Airways 787, resulting in a net of 63 jets for July orders.

Boeing delivered 48 aircraft over the course of July, including eight 787s, one of the theme 787-10 for Korean Air, the 1,200th of the twinjet type to be handed over. It delivered 37 737 Max jets, along with two 777 freighters and a 767 freighter. These brought overall deliveries to 328 for the first seven months of the year. Among these were 45 787s and 22 777s, plus 246 737s.

Boeing’s gross order figure for the period reached 699, while its net total aircraft, which applies tighter criteria for backlog recognition, now stands at 739.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Boeing Scrapped the Earlier 737 Max Engine Anti-ice System

Boeing’s earlier plan for redesigning the 737 Max’s engine anti-ice system ended up not working out. That is why company engineers missed Boeing’s initial goal of having the design changes finalized in January of this year. That is also why Boeing, on 29 July, pushed to 2026 its expectation for when the 737 Max 7 and Max 10 will achieve certification. FlightGlobal reported on 25 July that Boeing had not yet finalized a 737 Max engine anti-ice system redesign intended to address an overheating problem, citing an internal Boeing newsletter.

In July, Boeing chief executive Kelly Ortberg expounded just a bit, saying the company ditched an earlier redesign plan. “We found some issues with the design implementation we had, so we’re going to have to back up and make some additional design changes to get through that deicing requirement,” Ortberg said, speaking during Boeing’s second-quarter earnings call. “Basically, the engineering designs have not yielded in the timeframe we are anticipating…We just haven’t closed the design.”

As a result, the company must redesign the system before prior to achieving the 737 Max 7 and MAX 10’s certification. “This is a very delicate area that we are dealing with around the inlet of the engines”, Ortberg says, noting engineers must understand how changing the engine anti-ice system might cause any perturbation to the airflow into the engine.

Source: Boeing, FlightGlobal

High-five: Fifth 77-9 Takes Flight

On Tuesday, the 5th of August, the fifth 777 9 took flight from Paine Field in Everett, Washington, a sign of progress for the company’s widebody program as the team works to deliver the first airplane in 2026.

*  The flight marked the first time in five years that the team built, prepared, and flew a 777 9 airplane on its first flight.  Capt. Ted Grady, 777X chief pilot, and Capt. Mark Brown, 777-9 project pilot, completed the 2-hour, 27-minute flight profile to validate the airplane’s handling and performance.

• During the flight, Grady and Brown navigated a route over Washington, reaching an altitude of 39,000 feet (11,887 meters) and an airspeed of Mach .84 (511 knots), which is typical for a first flight.

• Zach Lewis and Joel Conard, systems operators, and Cody Bruinsma and Mike Deutsch, flight analysts, accompanied them. The plane retired as planned to Paine Field at 1:30 p.m.

“The 777-9 flies beautifully, and this airplane performed just as we expected,” Grady said. “We appreciate the hard work of our coworkers who designed, built, and prepared this airplane for flight. Together, we are going to get the 777-9 certified and in our customers’ fleets.”

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

Lessor Avolon Discloses Orders for Up to 130 More Airbus Jets

Irish-based lessor disclosed an order for up to 130 Airbus jets, comprising A330neos and A321neos.  Fifteen A330neos and 75 A321neos make up the firm part of the agreement, with options and purchase rights covering a further 15 A330neos and 25 A321neos. Avolon says the deliveries will run to 2033.

No engine selection has been given for the single-aisle jets. All A330neos are fitted with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000s.

Avolon is a strong customer for the A330-900. “This order demonstrates our strong confidence in the long-term demand for new aircraft,” says Avolon chief Andy Cronin. Airbus says the additional order brings Avolon’s total to 79 A330neos and 264 A321neos.

Source: Avolon, Airbus, Picture Airbus

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Gulfstream Delivers Milestone 300th G280

Gulfstream has delivered its 300th super-midsize G280. The company handed over its first twinjets in 2012, and its in-service fleet has tallied more than 575,000 flight hours and nearly 358,000 landings since. The type is the smallest in Gulfstream’s product range and has earned a dispatch reliability rate of 99.98% and has achieved 87 city-pair speed records.

With multiple seat options, the G280 can carry up to 10 passengers. Its Honeywell HTF7250G engines give it a range of 3,600 nm at a long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.80. Gulfstream continues to invest in the G280 platform, developing new features that enhance passenger comfort and increase safety while improving crew efficiency.

Source: GulfStream, Picture Gulfstream

Porter to Sell and Lease-Back Four E195-E2s

Canadian carrier Porter Airlines has secured a sale-leaseback deal involving four Embraer E195-E2 jets to be delivered later this year. Porter’s E195-E2 fleet has been integral to its transcontinental network expansion.

Debt financing is being provided to both Fortress and GOAL by Ashland Place Finance to execute the transactions. Porter holds existing finance-lease agreements with GOAL covering three De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400s used for regional flying in Eastern Canada and the Northeast USA. The Companies have also collaborated on the sale-leaseback of E195-E-2s.

Cristian Schloemann, managing director of GOAL, says the latest sale-leaseback agreement “ underscores the trust Porter places in our team and our tailored leasing solutions”. “As Porter Airlines accelerates its growth with the advanced Embraer E195-E2, we remain committed to supporting their strategic vision and operational excellence across North America,” he says.

Porter has been aggressively acquiring E95-E2s to enable the formerly regional-focused carrier’s expansion across North America and into the Caribbean. It now operates 46 of the type, with 29 more on order and 25 covered by purchase options. Since introducing E195-E2s to its fleet in 2023, Porter has become the largest global operator of the twinjet.

Source: Porter Airlines                                                                       

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Southwest Airlines to Equip Entire Boeing 737 Fleet with Honeywell’s Runway Safety Technology

Southwest Airlines is in the process of activating its entire Boeing Co. Boeing 737 aircraft fleet with Honeywell’s SmartRunway and SmartLanding software designed to increase runway safety. This capability is enabled via the Honeywell Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) already on Southwest aircraft, and more than 700 aircraft have been activated to date. HoneyWell’s SmartRunway and SmartLanding runway safety technology to enhance pilot situational awareness during taxi, takeoff, and landing and promotes stabilized approaches.

SmartRunway and SmartLanding are certified for most Airbus and Boeing aircraft and numerous business aviation platforms. Honeywell also announced it is currently testing its next-generation runway safety technology, Surface Alerts(SURF_A), with an expected certification for commercial aircraft in 2026, pending regulatory approval. The company said in a press release that this agreement furthers Honeywell’s long-standing partnership with Southwest, the world’s largest 737 platform operator.

Source: Honeywell, Southwest Airlines

VietJet Begins Construction for New MRO Facility

VietJet has broken ground for its new MRO facility at the in-development Long Thanh international airport. “In addition to supporting the maintenance needs of Vietjet’s expanding fleet, the facility is also positioned to serve both domestic and international airlines, enhancing Vietnam’s aviation capabilities and supporting future operations and supporting future operations at Long Thanh,” VietJet states.

The airline had in 2023 indicated its intention to build its own MRO facility, which will be able to service its fleet of narrowbody and widebody aircraft, as well as third-party airline customers. Long Thanh International Airport is located near Ho Chi Minh City and is intended to be the city’s second and the country’s largest airport. It is expected to be operational by 2026.

Source: VietJet, picture VietJet.

Rolls-Royce Retires  Its 747-200 Testbed 

Rolls-Royce North America has retired its iconic Boeing 747-267B testbed, N787RR(c/n 21966), after nearly 20 years of groundbreaking flight trials. These tests have included flying on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and in-flight engine development and certification, such as the Trent 1000.

The Tucson International Airport-based airliner had originally been delivered to Cathay Pacific in 1980 as VR-HIA. It later served with Air Atlanta Icelandic before joining Rolls-Royce North America in June 2005, where it was stripped of its passenger cabin and equipped with instrumentation, recording stations, and a custom mounting configuration to support up to five engines simultaneously. 

Source: Rolls-Royce, Picture Rolls-Royce.        

In Brief

Air Algérie has signed on the dotted line for 16 new ATR 72-600 aircraft.

Greek Carrier Aegean has placed an order for a pair of Airbus A321XLR.

Condor has ordered four Airbus A330-900s with options on four more.

Uzbekistan Airways is set to take delivery of two more Airbus A321neo in 2026.

Panama’s Copa Airlines may not convert options it holds for more than a dozen 737 Max 10s into orders in favor of Max 8 and 9s.

Korean Airlines ordered eight all-new 777-8 freighter aircraft from Boeing to support long-term growth and fleet modernization.

Air Cargo News

Initial A350 F Fuselage sections Arrive At Toulouse Final Assembly

Airbus has received the initial fuselage sections for its A350 freighter, MSN700, at its final assembly line. Airbus supplies these sections through its Airbus Atlantic Aerostructures division. The Monitor-de-Bretagne site assembles and equips all center and forward A350 fuselages. According to Airbus Atlantic, the initial A350F sections have been delivered to Toulouse, the final assembly line for the cargo twinjet. It describes the delivery as a “ major milestone” for the program, which highlights the “industrial excellence” and “strength of collaboration” across the division’s various facilities. Airbus’s UK plant at Broughton completed the first wing set for the A350F earlier this year.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus

UK’s One Air to Take First 777F Under Operating Lease

UK-based cargo carrier One Air is introducing its initial Boeing 777 freighter, one of a pair being purchased by a division of Air One International Holdings. It will take the twinjet registered G-ONEG, and painted in One Air’s livery under an operating lease. One Air has been operating commercial flights for two years, having commenced services in July 2023, and has newly disclosed plans to open its first scheduled routes.

The airline has been using Boeing 747-400 freighters since starting upland has three of the type. One Air is one of three partners—along with Moldovian-registered Aero TransCargo and Romania’s RomCargo Airlines associated with Air One International Holdings. The three operators offer freight capacity on a combined fleet of 11 cargo 747-400s.

One Air had previously indicated that it was planning to expand into 777F services and recently initiated a recruitment drive for crews. Acquisition of the 777F offers “new and exciting opportunities”, says One Air chief technical officer David Tattersall. It received the new 777F during a ceremony at Boeing’s production center in Everett, Washington. Air One International Holdings says a second 777F is scheduled to be delivered in the fourth quarter of this year.

Source: Air One Holding, Picture Boeing

OTHER NOTEWORTHY NEWS

Boeing Moves Final Stored 737 Max Out of Moses Lake Site

Boeing recently flew out of Moses Lake the last 737 Max among a specific group of 450 jets it started accumulating upon the type’s 2019 grounding, marking another milestone along the narrowbody aircraft program’s recovery.

“Teammates gathered to watch the final storage 737 Max depart Moses Lake, Washington, in mid-August, closing a key capture in the 737’s history and showing the single-aisle airplane program’s progress,” says a 25 August internal company report from Boeing News Now. “With this departure, all 737 Max airplanes stored beginning in 2019 have been reactivated for delivery, marking the beginning of the end for 737 Max storage operations’ six-year effort involving more than 450 737 Max airplanes,” it adds. The last aircraft to leave that site has line number 7813.

The Max 8 first flew in November 2019 and is scheduled for delivery this year to Air China, according to fleet data provider Cirium.  A shadow factory is what Boeing calls a facility at which it completes rework. “The Moses Lake team will now turn to other projects, including preparing 737-7s and 737-10s for delivery once they are certified, as well as serving additional capacity for the 737 program,” it says. Boeing recently said it expects the FAA will certify the Max 7 and Max 10 in 2016, following years of delays.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

Researched and Compiled by : 

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor  

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian  

 

ALL THINGS BOEING

Boeing 777-8 Freighter Started Work On the Wing Spar

On the 22nd of July, Boeing started on the initial 777-8 Freighter test aircraft by drilling the first hole into the wing spar as it works towards delivery of the lead aircraft in 2028.  About 100 teammates were at Boeing’s 777X Composite Spar Shop at its Everett complex in Washington state for the milestone occasion.  Operator Case McDowell, who was at the controls of the drill, says: “You don’t forget these moments; having our team together as we got underway on this airplane was special.”

Earlier in July, the aircraft manufacturer said it had built the first 33m(108ft)-long spar for the 777-7778F’s wing; each spar weighs 565kg(1,250lb).  Originally anticipated to come to market in 2027, Boeing in October 2024 announced it would delay the twinjet freighter’s arrival until 2028.  Customers have ordered 59 777 -8Fs since Boeing announced the program in 2022 with launch customer Qatar Airways.

Source: Boeing, Picture Boeing

UK’s First Wedgetail Makes Public Debut With RIAT Appearance

The UK Royal Air Force’s (RAF’s) first Boeing E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft had made its public debut, appearing at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) on 19 July.

One of three examples ordered by the UK, a heavily adapted 737NG performed a flypast at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire flanked by the RE Arrows aerobatic display team, before making a second pass on its own; with 10 conducting a touch and go landing.

First flown in modified guise in September 2024, the adapted narrowbody with service registration WT001 was making its fifth flight, with Boeing and RAF test pilots at the controls.  Two other aircraft on order for the UK have already had their Northrop Grumman MESA surveillance radars installed, with the RAF due to declare initial operational capability with the new type in 2026.

Source: FlightGlobal

US Air Force to Purchase Dozens More KC-46 Tankers

The US Air Force plans to significantly expand its fleet of Boeing KC-46 Pegasus aerial-refuellers, purchasing dozens more of the 767-based jets.  The Air Force confirms it has approved an acquisition strategy for the KC-46 to include up to 75 additional aircraft. The service has also expanded its existing procurement contract from 179 jets to 188 to the maximum possible figure under that 2011 deal with Boeing.  Those changes make for a total potential fleet of 263 KC-46s in USAF service.  “This KC-46 production extension program will maintain uninterrupted tanker recapitalization are final delivery under the current contract,” the Air Force says.

The decision ends years of uncertainty about the USAF’s medium-term plans for modernizing its tanker force, which is primarily composed of aged Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers.  There are more than 370 KC-135s in service with the USAF, with an average age of 64-years, according to fleet’s data from aviation analytics firm Cirium. The oldest Stratotankers were delivered nearly 70 years ago.  There are currently just 93 KC-46s flying for the USAF, Cirium says.  The air force’s decision earlier resolved the bridge tanker saga to obtain a derivative of the Airbus 330 based Multi Roll Tanker Transport; and stick with the KC-46.

The outcome is a huge win for Boeing, with a billion in new potential revenue.  Fiscal year 2026 budget documents indicate the airfare will pay just south of $2.8 billion for the KC-46 examples in the coming period.  That works out to roughly $186 million per aircraft.

Source: FlightGlobal, US Air Force        

ALL THINGS AIRBUS

First A350F Stabiliser Completed at Airbus’s Spanish Plants

Airbus’s Spanish facilities in Cadiz and Getafe have produced the first horizontal stabilizer for the A350 freighter.  The structure will be transferred to the Toulouse final assembly line in the next few weeks.   Airbus is producing a pair of A350s for the flight-testing and certification program.

The Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-powered freighter is scheduled to enter service in the second half of 2027.  Airbus’s Cadiz operation manufactured the stabiliser’s components while the Getafe plant carried out assembly as well as outfitting.  The structure is built on the same line as stabilizers for passenger A350s.  “Spain plays a key role in this program,” says the president of Airbus’s Spanish aircraft activity, Ricardo Rojas.

The airframe’s facilities in Spain, which also include IIIescas plant, produce the rear fuselage structure and lower wing covers for the A350F.  Spain will also build the main-deck cargo door for the freighter.

Source: Airbus, Picture Airbus

REGIONAL/BUSINESS JETS

Royal Jordanian Takes Spare Engines For Embraer E2 Fleet

Royal Jordanian has acquired a pair of spare engines for its Embraer E2-family

regional jet fleet, supported by a loan agreement.  The carrier is taking up to 10 aircraft, a mix of E190-E2s and E195-Es introduced five of the jets over 2024.  It expects to bring in three more during 2025-26.  Its Jordan Airline Training and Simulation arm has introduced an E2 simulator to its facilities.

Royal Jordanian says the Pratt&Whiney GTF engine is “Cornerstone” of its fleet-modernization plan, with the PW1100G having been selected by the carrier for 20 Airbus A320neos.  The PW1900G version of the GTF is the sole power plant for the E2.

Royal Jordanian has acquired two spare PW1900Gs under a newly agreed loan with joint-venture HALO AirFrance.  “Acquisition of these spare engines will significantly boost our operational readiness and reliability,” says ROYAL Jordanian chief Samer Majali.  “This collaboration reflects Royal Jordanian’s commitment to sustainable growth and maintaining our position as a leading carrier in the region,” says Majali.  Royal Jordanian’s fleet modernisation also includes introducing Boeing  787-9s from next year.

Source: Royal Jordanian, Picture Embraer                                                      

OTHER AVIATION NEWS

Vueling to Become IAG’s First Boeing 737 Max Operator

IAG has announced that Vueling will take the 50 Boeing 737 jets the group has on firm order, marking the low-cost carrier’s and group’s shift away from an all Airbus narrow body fleet.  “We have allocated the 50 Boeing 737s that we have ordered to Vueling”, said IAG chief Executive Luis Gallego during a second-quarter earnings call on 1 August.  The aircraft are due for delivery beginning in late 2026″, Gallego states.  The three examples are expected by the end of that year and will be based in Barcelona.

The intention is for Vueling to eventually become an all Boeing operator, but that is contingent on the carrier performing to plan, Gallego says. In the meantime, it has plans to mitigate the inefficiencies that may result from operating a mixed fleet.  IAG’s 737 Max order is split equally between 25 high-density MAX 8-200s-the Variant operated by Ryanair-and 25 Max 10s.  The latter variant is still to be certified, with reports suggesting that it could possibly happen later this year.  Vueling operates a fleet of around 140 Airbus narrowbodies, more than 100 of which are older generation variants.

Source: IAG, picture Vueling

Rolls-Royce Remains On Track With Durability Package

Rolls-Royce says it remains on track to deliver a 30% time-on-wing improvement for the Trent 1000 and Trent 7000 engines by the end of this year.  The manufacturer has been engaged in various initiatives to archive an average 80% enhancement of time-on-wing across its modern Trent family by 2027.  Rolls-Royce says it has “either delivered or secured” more than half of this improvement target.

The company disclosed in a half-year briefing that it achieved certification, in June, of its high-pressure blade for the Trent 1000 TEN engine that powers the Boeing 787.  Both engines are also set to undergo a second phase of durability improvement Rolls-Royce says it will provide a further 30% increase in time-on-wing, along with what was achieved by the first phase.  Rolls-Royce delivered fewer Trent 1000 and Trent 7000 engines over the first half, a combined total of 53 compared with 61 in the same period last year.

Source: Rolls-Royce, Picture Rolls-Royce.            

LATEST NEWS

• Allegiant Air continues taking deliveries of Boeing 737Max 8s in a more timely manner than anticipated, representing a positive sign for Boeing’s recovery as a steady supplier.

• Boeing-Built X-37B SpacePlane is set for no earlier than August 21 from Florida Space Coast, this will be its eighth mission.

• UK Cargo  Operator One Air is branching into scheduled services with its Boeing 747-400 freighter fleet, opening flights connecting Europe with the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.

• Alaska Airlines is planning to launch flights to London and Reykjavik, Iceland in the spring of 2026 as part of its ambitious expansion from Seattle.  The carrier also revealed a new paint scheme for its expanding fleet of Boeing 787-9s.

• Cathay Pacific  The Hong Kong-based carrier on August 6th, announced in Hong Kong is ordering 14 more 777-9 passenger jets, bringing its order book to 35 of the world’s largest twin-engine airplanes.

• Air France-KLM Group has reduced its order for Airbus A350-1000s, opting to convert most of them to the smaller-900 variant.

Source: Boeing, Cathay Pacific, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Airlines

AIR CARGO

Air Lease Confirms Canceled Order For Airbus A350 Freighter

Air Lease Corp has canceled its order with Airbus for seven A350 next-generation freighter jets, the company’s top executive said on Monday’s earnings call with analysts.  Airbus quietly revealed that Air Lease had backed out of the order when its monthly orders and delivery report on July 9 indicated seven fewer orders for the new widebody cargo aircraft. Air lease officials at the time refused to comment on the change.  Chief Executive Officer John Plueger confirmed that Air Lease canceled the Airbus, saying development delays and the proliferation of tariffs contributed to the decision.

Source: Air Lease, Picture Airbus

Asiana Airlines Finalizes Cargo Business Divestment to Air Incheon.

South Korea’s Asiana Airlines has completed the sale its cargo business to compatriot Air Incheon, making the latter the country’s second largest cargo operator.  The sale, valued at $340 million comes nearly two years after Asiana directors approved the divestment part of the airline’s ongoing merger with Korean Air.  As part of the deal, Asiana has transferred 10 Boeing 747 freighters and a sole 767 Freighter, in addition to employees in its cargo business, to Air Incheon.  The divestment was a crucial prerequisite to gaining European regulatory approval for the merger between Asiana and Korean Air.

The European Commission conditionally approved the merger in February 2024, on the basis that parts of Korean Air’s passenger network to Europe, along with Asiana’s cargo business, would be given up.  Following its acquisition of Asiana’s cargo business, Air Inchon, which currently operates a fleet of four 737-800Fs, has rebranded itself as Air Z.

Source: Asiana

ANA Holdings Completes Takeover of Nippon Cargo Airlines

ANA Holdings has completed its acquisition of compatriot Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA), a move it believes will beef up its ”resilience” against Market volatility.  The acquisition was completed on 1 August, following a simplified share exchange with Japanese logistics firm Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, which previously owned NCA.  The deal, which was first floated in 2023, has been pushed back on several occasions, owing to regulatory hurdles.  The addition of NCA to ANA Holdings will “elevate” the group to the world’s 14th largest airline group based on cargo transport weight .

“The ANA Group’s Profitability is expected to increase with NCA’s inclusion, the strengthened cargo business will improve its resilience against market volatility and changes,” states ANA Holdings.

Tokyo Narita-based NCA operates a fleet of Boeing 747 freighters, comprising eight-8F’s as well as seven -400Fs operated on wet-lease arrangements.  ANA’s cargo fleet comprises six 767Fs, as well as a pair of 777Fs.

Source: ANA, NCA, Picture ANA Holdings

       

                 

Researched and Compiled by :

Ed Kaplanian    Commercial Aviation Advisor 

Contact – ekaplanian@yahoo.com

Editor:   Lee Kaplanian