Edelweiss getting ready for Airbus A350 arrival.

Efficiency meets comfort: 

The newest member of the Edelweiss fleet is the Airbus A350-900, which is one of the most environmentally friendly long-haul aircraft in the world and produces 25 per cent less CO2 than its predecessor, the Airbus A340-300, thanks to its lower fuel consumption, which is made possible by the use of lightweight materials and the latest generation of engines. Thanks to its long range, the Airbus A350-900 will be able to operate from the carrier's home base of Zurich to all of the current destinations on the airline's route network.  

With the "Airspace" cabin, the cabin architects and acoustic engineers of the Airbus A350-900 have developed an extremely spacious onboard area that offers passengers maximum comfort and relaxation. The cabin is remarkably quiet so sleeping, reading or listening to music on board is even more pleasant than on older-generation aircraft.

Edelweiss says that further plus points are the improved ventilation and lighting: "whether in Economy Class, Economy Max or Business Class - you breathe fresh air everywhere. Thanks to the enlarged panoramic windows, you can enjoy the best views and natural light"

The existing seating in the Airbus A350 will be retained for the time being and completely redesigned in the second half of 2026. This means that 30 seats will be available in Business Class. Economy Max has 63 seats with more seat pitch and Economy Class has 246 seats. The total of 339 seats are upholstered in blue Edelweiss fabric. Economy Class and Economy Max are equipped with a 3-3-3 configuration, Business Class with a 2-2-2 configuration. A striking feature of Business Class is the greater seat pitch, the generous legroom and the exceptional width of the seats, which can be completely reclined for sleeping. Economy and Economy Max have 9-inch screens, while Business Class has 19-inch screens. All seats have a power and USB connection.

The airline is also modernising the appearance of its fleet to coincide with the future introduction of the new Airbus A350. Both the characteristic red aircraft nose and the Edelweiss flower will be retained in the adapted design. White as the main colour will also remain unchanged.

STARLUX Airlines celebrates launch of Seattle-Taipei route

Taiwan-based luxury carrier STARLUX Airlines’ inaugural flight to Seattle, its third US gateway after Los Angeles and San Francisco, touched down to a water cannon salute at 4:15pm on Saturday 17 August. The launch of nonstop flights from Seattle to Taipei and the expansion of the carrier's transpacific routes reaffirms its dedication to growing its US network. With its arrival at the hub of partner Alaska Airlines, STARLUX enables seamless connectivity from more than 100 cities to Seattle and onward to Taipei and 23 Asian destinations. 

For the new route from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), STARLUX flies its next-generation Airbus A350-900. STARLUX initially offers three flights weekly and is expected to ramp up to daily from the beginning of next year. 

Below is the weekly schedule:

Flight	Route	Weekly Schedule	Departure Time	Arrival Time
JX031	SEA-TPE	Every Monday, Thursday, Saturday	02:10	05:10 +1
JX032	TPE-SEA	Every Wednesday, Friday, Sunday	20:00	16:15
*Note: Flight number and schedule may change without prior notice.

Abra Group (majority investor of Avianca and Gol) signs MoU for five A350-900s

Abra Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for five A350-900s to further expand its international long-haul operations and increase capacity. This is in line with the Group's strategic plans to offer millions of passengers greater connectivity to new destinations on long-range routes.

Adrian Neuhauser, CEO of Abra Group said, “We are delighted to announce this agreement with Airbus. We believe the arrival of these five A350s, which offer a best-in-class passenger experience, are more fuel efficient and have a lower cost per seat than competitor aircraft, will allow us to strengthen our commitment to make travel more accessible and responsible. This also means better prices for customers with better connectivity between our continent and Europe, and will further consolidate Abra as one of the largest and most competitive air transportation groups in Latin America. The aircraft selection is consistent with the strategic announcements we have done this year and further executes on our long-term vision.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business said, "We are delighted to see the Abra Group endorsing the A350 to continue its mission of strengthening air connectivity between Latin America and the rest of the world. The selection of the A350 reaffirms the aircraft as the undisputed leader in long-haul air travel.”

The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and the long range leader in the 300-410 seater category, flying efficiently on any sector from short-haul to ultra-long-haul routes up to 9,700nm. Its clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and latest generation engines that together deliver 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO₂ emissions, as well as 50% noise reduction compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

Airbus has sold over 1,300 aircraft in Latin America and the Caribbean and has a leading  market share of in-service passenger aircraft. Around 800 are in operation throughout the region, with close to 500 in the order backlog. Since 1994, Airbus has secured 75% of net orders in the region.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

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Japan Airlines finalises order for 31 Airbus aircraft......

Japan Airlines finalises order for A350-900s and A321neo aircraft

Japan Airlines (JAL) has signed a firm order with Airbus for 20 A350-900 widebody aircraft and 11 single-aisle A321neo, finalising a commitment announced earlier this year.

The order was announced at the Farnborough Air Show 2024 during a signing ceremony with Yukio Nakagawa, Executive Officer and Senior Vice President Procurement of Japan Airlines, and Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Commercial Aircraft business.

The new A350-900s will join the carrier’s A350 fleet serving international routes, while the A321neo will operate on domestic services within Japan. To date, JAL has ordered a total of 52 A350s, with 18 in service. The A321neo contract represents JAL’s first order for the Airbus single-aisle product line.

Executive Officer and Senior Vice President Procurement of Japan Airlines Yukio Nakagawa said, “We are delighted to have signed the firm order for the introduction of additional A350s and new A321s. We will accelerate the introduction of the state-of-the-art and fuel-efficient aircraft to provide our passengers with excellent service and to reduce CO₂ emissions. We believe that this additional introduction of Airbus aircraft will further deepen our partnership.”

Chief Executive Officer of the Commercial Aircraft business, Airbus, Christian Scherer said, “We thank Japan Airlines for placing its confidence once again in the A350. In addition, we celebrate a new milestone in our partnership with the airline following its order for the A321neo. We are committed to providing our full support to Japan Airlines as its growing fleet is deployed on more routes across its network, both domestically and internationally.”

Japan Airlines A350 collides with DHC-8 whilst landing in Tokyo.

The crew of a Japan Airlines aircraft are being hailed as heroes after all 367 passengers and 12 crew evacuated their Airbus A350 aircraft that burst into flames following a collision with another aircraft at the point of landing at  Haneda International Airport in Tokyo, earlier today.

Dramatic pictures and videos are flooding social media following the incident that clearly shows the aircraft erupting into flames as it travels down the runway. The initial fear from those on the ground, witnessing the disaster unfold from various points all over the airport would have been the certain death of all those onboard. However, whilst the videos and images show how the aircraft seemed to lose its nose gear, the plane came to a halt and all passengers and crew managed to escape the burning craft. 

Video from inside the A350 shows the orange glow of flames lighting up the windows and the cabin start to fill with light smoke as the stricken aeroplane continues down the runway.  Passengers seemed on the whole to be calm initially and then the evacuation took place. According to officials, nobody suffered serious injury during the crash or the evacuation.

The A350-900 operated by Japan Airlines was operating flight JAL516 from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Haneda International Airport when it collided with a Coastguard DHC-8 aircraft whilst landing in Haneda.  The incident occurred shortly after 17:47 local time on 02 January 2024 and all 367 passengers and 12 crew members on board evacuated the A350,  whilst Japanese authorities have now confirmed five of the six people on board the DHC-8 did not survive.

The A350 aircraft involved in the accident, registered under the number JA13XJ, was MSN 538, and delivered to Japan Airlines from the production line on 10 November 2021. It was powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines.

Japan Airlines issued the following statement:  "We regret to inform you that on the evening of January 2nd, JL516 was involved in a collision with a Japan Coast Guard aircraft during its landing at Haneda Airport, resulting in a fire on the runway. Our thoughts and prayers are with the deceased members of the Japan Coast Guard. We want to assure you that all passengers and crew on our flight were safely evacuated.

We would like to extend our sincerest apologies for the distress and inconvenience caused to our passengers, their families, and all those affected by this incident. We would like to assure you that we will provide our full cooperation in the investigation of this unfortunate event."

Plane maker Airbus issued the following statement "In line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 recommendations, Airbus will provide technical assistance to the Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses (BEA) of France and to the Japan Transport Safety Board (JTSB) in charge of the investigation. For this purpose, Airbus is presently dispatching a team of specialists to assist the Authorities.

Further updates will be provided as soon as consolidated information is available and Airbus is authorised to release them.

Our concerns and sympathy go to the families, friends and loved ones affected by the accident."

The remarkable evacuation of all passengers and crew from the A350 is amazing and is a testament to the way the A350 is constructed.  With its carbon fibre composites and different manufacturing, the plane seems to have held up very well following the collision and subsequent fire which undoubtedly gave those on board more time to escape down the evacuation chutes.  According to local news outlets, only 17 people sustained minor injuries during the evacuation. 

Whilst the exact cause is not yet known and an investigation has been started, preliminary reports indicate the pilots of the Japan Airlines flight did not spot any other aircraft on the runway prior to landing.  Tadayuki Tsutsumi, Japan Airlines senior vice president of corporate safety and security commented the plane “entered the runway as normal and began landing as normal and that there was an impact, which led to the accident, but we are still investigating further details.”

Senior Vice President of Japan Airlines Noriyuki Aoki appeared to blame the flight crew for the disaster at a press conference on Tuesday evening, saying “However, I can't say at this time if they [Japan Airlines crew] were cleared to land, or if they communicated with ATC, because that is a fundamental factor in the cause of the accident, and we are still trying to confirm that,” 

Video content from BBC News

Airbus to send specialists to Japan in wake of A350 crash

The European aircraft manufacturer, Airbus has confirmed it will be sending specialists to Japan after one of its A350 jets burst into flames on the runway following a collision with another aircraft.

The A350-900 operated by Japan Airlines was operating flight JAL516 from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Haneda International Airport when it collided with a DHC-8 aircraft whilst landing in Haneda.  All 367 passengers and 12 crew members on board evacuated the A350,  whilst Japanese authorities have now confirmed five of the six people on board the DHC-8 did not survive.

The aircraft involved in the accident, registered under the number JA13XJ, was MSN 538, delivered to Japan Airlines from the production line on 10 November 2021. It was powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines.

Airbus said in a statement "In line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 recommendations, Airbus will provide technical assistance to the Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses (BEA) of France and to the Japan Transport Safety Board (JTSB) in charge of the investigation. For this purpose, Airbus is presently dispatching a team of specialists to assist the Authorities."

Adding "Our concerns and sympathy go to the families, friends and loved ones affected by the accident."

Emirates has signed an order for an additional 15 Airbus A350-900s

Emirates has signed an order for an additional 15 A350-900s at the Dubai Airshow last week, taking its total order to 65 aircraft.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said, “The A350-900s will add to our fleet mix and we are pleased to announce additional orders for this aircraft type. We plan to deploy our A350s to serve a range of new markets including long-haul missions of up to 15 hours flying time from Dubai. We will work closely with Airbus and Rolls-Royce to ensure our aircraft deliver the best possible operating efficiency and flying experience for our customers.”

 

“Emirates’ orders this week are all carefully planned to support our future growth and the Dubai economic vision set out by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Emirates experience is often the first visitor experience of Dubai – and we want it to be the best.”

Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International said, “With this agreement we mark another solid step forward in the long standing relationship agreement between Emirates and Airbus. A relationship founded on a pursuit of innovation, efficiency and operational excellence. Just as the A380 established itself at the heart of Emirates operations, we are equally proud of what the A350 will do in the years to come.”

The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and the long range leader in the 300-410 seater category, flying efficiently on any sector from short-haul to ultra-long-haul routes up to 9,700nm. Its clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and latest generation engines that together deliver 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO₂ emissions, as well as 50% noise reduction compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

Flexibility for airlines, comfort for passengers

Ethiopian looks to Airbus for 11 additional A350-900 jets

Ethiopian’s flagship carrier, Ethiopian Airlines Group, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for 11 additional Airbus A350-900s to be added to its existing fleet. The latest agreement takes Ethiopian Airlines’ total order book and commitment for the A350 to 33, including four A350-1000s.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of 20 A350-900s and with this commitment, it will confirm its position as Africa's biggest A350 customer.

The signing of the MoU took place at Dubai Airshow in the presence of Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew and Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, Christian Scherer.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for this fleet as it offers extra comfort to passengers with its features like the quietest cabin in its class and ambient lighting. We are keen to expand our fleet size, acquiring the latest technology aircraft to offer a convenient and memorable onboard experience to our esteemed passengers.”

 

EGYPTAIR signs deal for 10 Airbus A350-900s to meet growing demand for air travel.

EGYPTAIR customers will soon be flying to destinations around the globe aboard new Airbus A350-900s, after the airline disclosed an order for 10 aircraft at the Dubai Airshow.

Once added to the fleet, the A350-900s will provide EGYPTAIR with 25% less fuel burn and, in turn, reduced emissions, while passengers enjoy the comfort of the Airbus AirSpace cabin, including a feeling of true spaciousness, wide seats, high ceilings and alluring ambient lighting.

The signing took place at the 2023 Dubai Airshow, in the presence of EGYPTAIR’s Chairman and CEO, Engineer Yehia Zakaria and Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, Christian Scherer.

"EGYPTAIR is a key partner of Airbus in the Middle East and Africa. We take immense pride in this partnership aimed at furthering the aviation industry. Our focus lies in the enhancement of our fleet to embrace some of the most contemporary aircraft available,” says EGYPTAIR Chairman and CEO Yehia Zakaria.

Zakaria adds: "EGYPTAIR has firmed up an agreement with Airbus to procure 10 A350-900 aircraft, each boasting a capacity of 340 seats. These aircraft come equipped with cutting-edge technologies and Rolls-Royce XWB Trent engines, known for their modern design and reduced fuel emissions and consumption. As we tackle growing demand across our network, this aircraft is the optimal choice.

Ten additional Airbus A350-900 jets for Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines, has announced a new order for 10 additional A350-900 aircraft, taking its total for the type to 40. This latest agreement is in addition to one announced in August for four A350-900s. Turkish Airlines already operates a fleet of 14 A350-900s.

Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International, said, “We are delighted that Turkish Airlines has decided to further enlarge its fleet with the purchase of 10 more A350-900 aircraft. With greater range capability, passenger capacity and comfort, the A350 is the perfect platform to connect Istanbul to the world. This repeat order demonstrates the confidence for our unique new-generation aircraft that offers airlines unbeatable economics and efficiency. We are proud to keep expanding our long-lasting partnership with Turkish Airlines and Türkiye’s aviation sector overall.”       

At the end of July, the A350 had won over 1,000 orders from leading carriers from around the globe. The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and the long range leader in the 300-410 seater category. Its clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and new engines that together deliver 25 percent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO2 emissions, as well as 50 percent noise footprint reduction compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

250 aircraft order for Airbus from Air India confirmed at Paris Air Show.....

Air India firms up order for 250 Airbus aircraft

A350 aircraft of choice for Air India’s renaissance in long-haul travel

A320 Family of jets to become the cornerstone of 

Air India’s domestic and regional fleet

As had been predicted some time ago,  Air India has firmed up its order for 250 Airbus aircraft and also selected an Airbus maintenance and digital package to power the airline’s transformation and growth strategy.

The aircraft order includes 140 A320neo and 70 A321neo single-aisle aircraft as well as 34 A350-1000 and six A350-900 wide-body jets. The deal confirms the letter of intent to acquire the aircraft that was signed back in February 2023.

The purchase agreements for the aircraft, as well as the Letters of Intent for maintenance and digital services, were signed in the presence of N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India, Guillaume Faury, Airbus CEO, Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, and Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director, Airbus India and South Asia at the Paris Air Show 2023.

Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India, said: “Our ambitious fleet renewal and expansion programme will see Air India operate the most advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft across our route network within five years. We are proud to be working with all our partners, including Airbus, in this journey to rebuild a global airline which reflects India taking a more confident posture around the world.”

Lufthansa orders 15 Airbus A350 jets

Lufthansa orders 10 Airbus A350-1000 and 5 more A350-900 aircraft

Lufthansa Group has signed an agreement with Airbus to expand its fleet by 10 Airbus A350-1000s and 5 Airbus A350-900s. With this firm order for the latest generation widebody aircraft, the airline will continue its decarbonisation trajectory. Compared to the previous generation of aircraft, the A350 consumes significantly less fuel, with a corresponding reduction in emissions. Passengers will benefit from the latest state-of-the-art cabin amenities and comfort on board.

In addition to the agreement on the purchase of the new aircraft, Airbus and Lufthansa have also signed a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) to further strengthen their cooperation in the field of sustainability and future technologies. This includes the intensified use of sustainable aviation fuels, the further optimisation of operations through a more efficient flight management and exploration into the use of hydrogen.

 

"We are honoured to see Lufthansa topping up its A350 order book to a total of 60 aircraft, joining the increasing number of A350-1000 customers around the world. With economic and sustainability pressures becoming a measurable reality as international flying increases again, so do the massive advantages of the A350 as the only clean sheet design and therefore the most efficient solution," said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International. “By  adding the largest A350 family member to its fleet, Lufthansa will benefit from Airbus’ full fleet commonality, offering unmatched operational flexibility and vast economic benefits.”

Ethiopian Airlines Upsizes part of an order for Airbus A350-900s to A350-1000s...... A first for any African airline.....

The flag carrier of Ethiopia and Africa’s largest airline group has upsized four of its A350-900 on order from Airbus, to the largest variant of the A350 Family, the A350-1000, becoming Africa’s first customer for the aircraft.

Ethiopian Airlines has already ordered 22 A350-900s, of which 16 aircraft have been delivered. With the A350-1000 upsizing, Ethiopian Airlines’ backlog consists of four A350-1000s and two A350-900s.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr Mesfin Tasew said, “We are delighted over the upsizing of the A350-900 on order to the largest variant, A350-1000, that helps us stay ahead of the curve in technology. We are the technology leaders in the continent introducing the latest technology and fuel-efficient fleet into Africa. The A350-1000 is the best fit for our dense routes, and we believe that the upsizing will be instrumental in satisfying the increasing demand of customers in our vast global network across five continents. We will continue on keeping ourselves abreast of aviation technology advancements to enhance our service and fulfil customers’ demand.”

Mikail Houari, President, Airbus Africa and the Middle East said: "We are proud of our strong partnership with Ethiopian Airlines - the first airline in Africa to order and operate the A350-900. In another first, Ethiopian Airlines is once again leading the way in Africa’s aviation sector by introducing the A350-1000, the largest version of the world’s most efficient and technologically advanced passenger aircraft. - The A350-900 has delivered extraordinary capability, fuel efficiency, and operational reliability of 99.5 percent together with unbeatable operational flexibility and efficiency, from short to ultra-long-range operations."

The A350-1000 will increase the East African carrier’s capacity and it will be an addition to its modern wide-body fleet. The airline will benefit from a flexible, high-value Family leveraging Airbus’ unprecedented level of commonality and same type rating.

The Airbus A350’s clean-sheet design features state-of-the-art aerodynamics, a carbon-fibre fuselage and wings, plus the most fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency and sustainability for Ethiopian Airlines, with a 25% reduction in fuel-burn and CO2 emissions compared to previous generation twin-aisle aircraft.

Lufthansa's first Airbus A350 aircraft with upgraded business class, named "Munich" and deployed on routes to Canada

The German city of Munich has a new ambassador  - An Airbus A350-900 with the registration D-AIVC was christened today at Munich Airport by the Bavarian Minister-President Dr Markus Söder and the first Lufthansa with the revamped business class.

  

Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG said: "The A350 is the quietest and most fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft in our fleet. With a significantly improved Business Class onboard, this aircraft also represents the beginning of one of the largest product modernizations in Lufthansa's history. This aircraft is sustainable and offers customers a premium flight experience. The "Munich" is a worthy ambassador of the Bavarian capital to the world."

The aircraft will now be deployed on routes between the Bavarian hub for various cities in Canada, including  Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. 

Premium travel experience with improved Business Class

The "Munich" is the first aircraft in the Lufthansa fleet to offer its guests an improved Business Class. All seats have direct access to the aisle, can be easily and quickly converted into a two-meter-long bed and offer more storage space. In addition, travellers have significantly more space in the shoulder area.

The introduction of the improved Business Class marks the beginning of an extensive renewal of Lufthansa's cabins. Next year, the airline will introduce a new top product in all travel classes, Economy, Premium Economy, Business and First Class, that is unparalleled in the market.

Delta restores service to all pre-COVID Africa markets with Johannesburg return

The U.S. mega-carrier Delta will make its return to South Africa with nonstop service between Atlanta and Johannesburg on 1st August after more than a year of absence due to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. 

This will be the carriers longest nonstop flight and will see Delta restoring service to all its pre-COVID markets in Africa.  “Delta has proudly served South Africa for more than 15 years, and we’re thrilled to return to a market so highly sought after by tourists,” said Joe Esposito, S.V.P. – Network Planning. “Two-thirds of Americans report making summer travel plans, and with demand growing rapidly alongside U.S. vaccination rates, we’re bringing back more flights and destinations to deliver on their anticipation to get back out in the world and reclaim the joy of travel.”

Delta's Johannesburg flights will operate by the Airbus A350-900 aircraft featuring the award-winning Delta One Suites and Delta Premium Select cabins, large seat-back entertainment screens and high-capacity overhead bins, among other enhancements.

Delta is currently operating nearly 20 weekly flights to its African markets, including daily service between Atlanta and Lagos as well as between New York-JFK and Accra, and five-times-a-week service between JFK and Dakar. On July 8, Delta will resume a four-times-weekly service to Lagos from JFK as well.

Flight	Departs	Arrives	Operating Days
DL 200	ATL at 7:00 PM	JNB at 4:30 PM (next day)	Wed/Fri/Sun
DL 201	JNB at 10:55 PM	ATL at 9:15 AM (next day)	Mon/Thurs/Sat

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New Airbus A350-900 for World2Fly

 New Airbus A350-900 Aircraft for World2Fly on lease from

Air Lease Corporation

Air Lease Corporation announced the delivery of one new Airbus A350-900 aircraft, featuring Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, on long-term lease to the Spanish airline World2Fly.  This aircraft is the first of two new A350-900 aircraft confirmed to deliver to the airline from ALC’s order book with Airbus.  

“We are delighted to deliver our first of two new A350-900 aircraft to our new customer, World2Fly,” said Matthew Stevens, Assistant Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation.  “ALC is pleased to help launch World2Fly with new A350-900 aircraft and we are confident the A350-900 will help distinguish World2Fly in the marketplace.” 

Lufthansa to buy ten long-haul aircraft: five Airbus A350-900s and five Boeing 787-9

The German Lufthansa Group is accelerating its fleet modernization plans by rapidly retiring older aircraft in favour of newer more fuel-efficient and environmentally sound types like the A350 and 787.  As a result, the Executive Board of Deutsche Lufthansa AG has agreed on Monday to buy ten long-haul aircraft: five Airbus A350-900s and five Boeing 787-9.  As part of the long-standing fleet renewal programme, a total of 175 new aircraft will be delivered to Lufthansa Group airlines this decade.

Boeing 787-9

The first Boeing 787-9 are scheduled to fly for Lufthansa as early as next winter, with others to follow in the first half of 2022. Monday's decision brings the total number of firm orders for Boeing 787-9s and Boeing 777-9s to 45 aircraft.

Due to the dramatic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on global aviation, aircraft that had been ordered by some airlines could not be delivered in the past twelve months. Lufthansa held talks with Boeing and found a way to buy five 787-9 that were already manufactured. At the same time, the Group reached an agreement with Boeing on a restructured delivery plan.

Lufthansa enjoying discount deals from both Boeing and Airbus - agrees purchase of five Airbus A350-900s and five Boeing 787-9 aircraft

The German Lufthansa Group is accelerating its fleet modernization plans by rapidly retiring older aircraft in favour of newer more fuel-efficient and environmentally sound types like the A350 and 787.  As a result, the Executive Board of Deutsche Lufthansa AG has agreed to buy ten long-haul aircraft: five Airbus A350-900s and five Boeing 787-9.  As part of the long-standing fleet renewal programme, a total of 175 new aircraft will be delivered to Lufthansa Group airlines this decade.

Boeing 787-9

The first Boeing 787-9 are scheduled to fly for Lufthansa as early as next winter, with others to follow in the first half of 2022. Today's decision brings the total number of firm orders for Boeing 787-9s and Boeing 777-9s to 45 aircraft.

Due to the dramatic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on global aviation, aircraft that had been ordered by some airlines could not be delivered in the past twelve months. Lufthansa held talks with Boeing and found a way to buy five 787-9 that were already manufactured. At the same time, the Group reached an agreement with Boeing on a restructured delivery plan.

Ethiopian Airlines builds success on A350 “Preighter”

The East African airline has continued to fly and create new business since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the A350-900 is part of this success.

Some 60 percent of the world’s fleet was grounded in 2020 due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on air transport, as aviation industry estimates show. The impact of the pandemic took a noticeable effect from March 2020 when the number of flights dropped significantly, as a direct consequence of the collapse in passenger demand.

Most companies booked massive financial losses, making 2020 the worst year in the aviation industry financially speaking. Interestingly, Ethiopian Airlines was among those which remained “cash positive” during this period.

 

Cargo boost to operations

March 2020 is precisely the month when Ethiopian started to operate its first cargo-only service on a passenger aircraft. The Addis Ababa-based carrier made the crucial decision to temporarily convert part of its fleet to carry cargo rather than passengers. Since then, the company has boosted its capacity on cargo operations.

This remarkable agility at all levels of the company enabled Ethiopian to meet the cargo demand which was increasing at that time. Its “preighters” – passenger aircraft carrying cargo in the cabin - transported tonnes of masks and medical products, as well as industrial products and goods such as mobile phones, IT equipment, and clothing.

In a recent communication, the company indicated it had “operated 5,645 cargo flights on the cabin of passenger aircraft and transported more than 121,750 tonnes of cargo across its vast global network. The flights added an immense value to the total of 33,182 flights and 735,869 tonnes of cargo transported during the period from March 25, 2020 to March 25,2021”.

 

SAS strengthens its market position in the last quarter.

SAS has managed to strengthen its market position in the first quarter of 2020 despite some difficult trading conditions.  The airline released its latest report at the end of last week which showed the carrier achieved many operational improvements, increased robustness and customer satisfaction. However, the strong revenue growth was offset by negative currency and IFRS 16 effects, resulting in earnings below the same period last year.

NOVEMBER 2019 – JANUARY 2020

Revenue: MSEK 9,707 (9,405)
Income before tax (EBT): MSEK -1,087 (-576)
Income before tax and items affecting comparability: MSEK -1,078 (-724)
Net income for the period: MSEK -861 (-469)
Earnings per common share SEK -2.33 (-1.25)
First quarter with IFRS 16 accounting standard

Read the full report from Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO of SAS....