04 July, 2023

Long-haul start-up agrees to buy three more Airbus A380s


The UK's newest long-haul start-up Global Airlines has entered into an agreement to acquire a three more Airbus A380 jetsto bring it to a launch fleet for four aircraft.  The airline is still planning to launch transtaltantic flights to New York and Los Angeles from London Heathrow in the spring of 2024.

The additional aircraft have been purchased for an undisclosed figure and the Global team is now developing plans for their refit and return to service. The carrier has promised that further details about the aircraft, their refurbishment and the acquisition will be published in the coming months.

James Asquith, Founder and CEO of Global Airlines, said: "We have agreed the purchase of a further three A380s to join the Global fleet. As I’ve always said, the A380 is the best aircraft in the sky, and we will continue to look for further acquisition opportunities.”


Asquith set up Global Airlines as a wholly owned subsidiary of his Holiday Swap firm with its headquarters in London which aims to revolutionize the airline industry. The carrier will focus on delivering a supreme level of service on Airbus A380 aircraft that will be configured with just 471 seats.

First Class on the carrier will be the epitome of opulence and personalized service which takes luxury to new heights. From lavish private suites adorned with exquisite amenities to a dedicated team of attentive professionals catering to passengers every need.  

Business class is where impeccable style meets unparalleled convenience. Experience spacious seating, exclusive lounges, and a host of premium services that ensure a seamless journey tailored to discerning travellers.

Global Airlines' Economy Class is where comfort and value intertwine effortlessly, with thoughtfully designed seating, attentive service, and a range of amenities, enjoy a pleasant and memorable flight experience without compromising on your budget.

The airline has also made further appointments to its advisory board, joing the team will be Pierre Madrange and Ian Black.

Pierre Madrange is a former French Air Force fighter pilot who later held the position of Chief Operating Officer at XL Airways, Managing Director at SR Technics and is a former Vice President of NAVBLUE, an Airbus company. Pierre brings his extensive aviation knowledge to the new airline as well significant expertise in airline operations and P&L management as well as growing leadership functions.

Ian Black is a highly experienced commercial and former military pilot. He has flown commercial operations across the Far East, Australasia, India, Dubai, and Europe. He worked for a major UK long haul airline for over 25 years as a senior captain on the Airbus/Boeing fleet. He has extensive experience in long-haul flying and cumulatively has flown 20,000 hours on A330/340-300/340-600 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

James Asquith said, “We extend our warmest welcome to both Ian and Pierre to the Global Airlines' advisory board, where they will work closely with our team. It is a real testament to the progress we are making that we continue to appoint senior and experienced people to our Advisory Board. I believe we must have one of the most experienced teams of aviation professionals coming together to launch Global Airlines.”

Pierre Madrange said, “I’m really pleased to be joining the Global Airlines Advisory Board. James is putting together a great team and I want to use my unique aviation network as well as my experience in the industry to help the airline do something new and exciting. A product that passengers will not only want to fly, but also an airline that aviation professionals from around the world will want to work for.”

Ian Black said, “Aviation is in my blood and joining the Advisory Board was an opportunity too good to turn down. For any airline, safety is the number one priority and Global will be no different. That commitment to safety is driven by not just the flight crew and cabin crews but every team member of Global Airlines, having a robust and open flight safety culture from the get-go is paramount. Working closely with both James and Richard is a real privilege, to influence the foundations of what will certainly be the very best airline this decade is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

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