News

Farnborough– World’s number one regional aircraft manufacturer ATR proudly announces the signature of a Letter of Intent between Japanese startup airline JCAS Airways and Singapore-based lessor Avation PLC for the lease of an ATR 72-600. This agreement signed July 25, 2024, shows the commitment of JCAS Airways to launch operations with ATR’s new generation turboprop. Delivery is scheduled for the end 2025. The initial routes will connect Kansai to Toyama and Yonago.

The agreement comes on the heels of a recent order placed by Avation for 10 ATR 72-600 last May. The placement of this first aircraft, well ahead of its delivery, is a clear positive sign from the market, showcasing its dynamism and the liquidity of the ATR as an asset.

With its exceptional fuel efficiency, versatility, and ability to operate in challenging environments, the ATR 72-600 is the perfect choice for expanding domestic and regional connectivity in the Japanese market. It is the go-to aircraft for Japanese operators looking to deliver a superior and low-emission travel experience to their passengers, as well as for lessors and investors aiming to build an attractive portfolio with a high residual value.

Source ATR / edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/26/24

Farnborough – ATR, the world’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer, announced on July 24, 2024, the signing of an order for four ATR 72-600 aircraft with Air Tahiti. Along with an eight-year Global Maintenance Agreement (GMA). Deliveries of the new aircraft are scheduled between 2025 and 2028, highlighting Air Tahiti’s long-term vision and confidence in ATR’s products for connecting and serving the archipelago’s communities responsibly.

As a dedicated user of ATR aircraft for nearly 40 years, Air Tahiti has been crucial in providing essential connectivity to the communities in Tahiti and its islands. The airline currently operates a fleet of 11 aircraft, comprising nine ATR 72-600 and two ATR 42-600. The introduction of these new aircraft will enable Air Tahiti to address both flight frequency and capacity, further enhancing its service offering and passenger experience.

The Tahitian carrier continues to renew its fleet with new-generation turboprops that boast the lowest CO2 emissions per trip in the regional market. The GMA, ATR’s flagship pay-by-the-hour maintenance package, renewed for eight years, will leverage ATR’s expertise. This is for both an aircraft manufacturer and service provider to further optimize operations.

Source ATR / edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/26/24

Farnborough, United Kingdom, 25 July 2024– 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.

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.”

Source Airbus / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/25/24

Farnborough, United Kingdom, July 25, 2024 – flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline’s capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.

Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of  President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer.

The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.

“We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus,” said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. “The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program.”

Source Airbus / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/25/24

Farnborough, United Kingdom, 23 July 2024 – Japan Airlines (JAL) has signed a firm order with Airbus for 20 A350-900 widebody aircraft and 11 single-aisle A321neo, finalizing 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.

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.

Source Airbus / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

Farnborough, United Kingdom, 23 July 2024 – Virgin Atlantic has placed a firm order for seven A330neo aircraft as part of its wider fleet transformation. The agreement takes Virgin Atlantic’s commitment for the A330neo to 19 aircraft in total, providing improved economics.

The order was announced during the Farnborough Airshow onboard Virgin Atlantic’s A330neo, named ‘Ruby Rebel’, and registered as GB-VSRB after founder Sir Richard Branson, to celebrate the airline’s 40th anniversary.

Shai Weiss, CEO, Virgin Atlantic said, “Today, we complete our multi-billion-dollar fleet transformation, with the purchase of seven additional A330-900s, which we know our customers and our people love to fly. Flying the youngest fleet is the most readily available and significant lever towards decarbonizing long-haul aviation and we are proud to already operate one of the youngest and most fuel and carbon efficient fleets across the Atlantic.”

“Our special partnership with Airbus began with the arrival of ‘Lady in Red’ in 1993, with our most recent arrival, ‘Ruby Rebel’, arriving to mark our 40th birthday this year. Virgin Atlantic has flown more than 60 Airbus tails in the last three decades. While not first to the party, they’ve been our main dance partner, making our customers smile ever since.”

Source Airbus / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

Farnborough, United Kingdom, 23 July 2024 – Berniq Airways, Libya’s airline, has placed a firm order with Airbus for six A320neo Family aircraft. The airline already operates six A320s and intends to further develop its regional and international routes with the additional A320neo Family aircraft.

Waseem Ezzway, Chairman of Berniq Airways said, “We are proud to be the first airline in Libya to order the advanced A320neo Family aircraft. This significant investment marks a new chapter for Berniq Airways as we continue to lead the way in modernizing our fleet and enhancing our service offerings.”

As with all Airbus aircraft, the entire A320 Family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

Source Airbus / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Qatar Airways announced today the Middle Eastern airline’s order for 20 more 777-9 airplanes, which will be the world’s largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet. The order, which expands the carrier’s 777X order book to nearly 100 airplanes, was finalized this year.

The award-winning airline helped launch the 777X program and now has on order 60 777-9 passenger airplanes. Qatar Airways is also the inaugural launch customer for the 777-8 Freighter and has 34 of the next generation cargo jet on order.

Earlier this month, Boeing began certification flight testing for the 777-9, which will offer a new level of passenger comfort with a spacious cabin, better humidity, a quiet environment and increased natural light.

“Qatar Airways is a leader in our industry, and we are honored the airline added 20 more 777-9 jets to its large Boeing order book,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We appreciate their confidence that Boeing’s market-leading widebody family will provide outstanding fuel efficiency and a superior passenger experience for its global operations.” In addition to the 777X family, Qatar Airways has 12 787 Dreamliner and 25 737 MAX aircraft on order.

Source Boeing / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Macquarie AirFinance announced today that the lessor has made its first direct order for Boeing airplanes. The purchase of 20 737-8s doubles Macquarie AirFinance’s existing 737-8 order book, which it acquired from ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Co. in 2023.

By expanding its 737 MAX portfolio, Macquarie AirFinance will scale-up its fleet of fuel-efficient, new generation airplanes to meet the growing demand of its airline customers.

“As single-aisle fleet renewals gain momentum, Macquarie AirFinance’s choice of the 737-8 will allow its customers to phase out older airplanes and operate the industry’s most fuel-efficient jets,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Lessors such as Macquarie AirFinance are key partners to Boeing and our airline customers, supporting airplane deliveries and offering financial solutions to carriers that want to renew or grow their fleets with the 737 MAX.”

Macquarie AirFinance is a leading provider of aircraft leasing and financing solutions with a portfolio of 236 aircraft leased to 85 airlines across 49 countries and a firm orderbook of 86 new technology Boeing and Airbus aircraft. With offices in Dublin, London, San Francisco and Singapore, Macquarie AirFinance is owned by Macquarie Asset Management, PGGM Infrastructure Fund and Australian Retirement Trust.

Source Boeing / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

Farnborough Airshow, UK, 23 July 2024 – Embraer’s latest aircraft, the 190F E-Freighter, passenger to full cargo conversion, has been certified by the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC). The aircraft, which is making its public debut this week at the Farnborough Air Show, was developed to fill a gap in the air cargo market and to replace older less efficient models.

The E-Freighter is due to receive EASA and FAA certification later this year and for the Cargo Loading System shortly after.

The E190F, which performed its maiden flight earlier this year, is a passenger jet converted to cargo operations, and will be known as the E-Freighter. The E190F was launched in 2022 to meet the changing demands of e-commerce and modern trade, which require fast deliveries and decentralized operations driving the demand for faster delivery of shipments to secondary and tertiary markets.

Arjan Meijer, President and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation, said, “The E-Freighter marks Embraer´s first step into the cargo market. After celebrating the first flight in April, it’s a further boost to receive type certification for our newest program now. The aircraft has been very well received this week by potential customers seeing our E-Freighter for the first time in Farnborough. This is a segment that has tremendous potential and gives a new life to the earliest E-Jets that are just now moving into the typical replacement phase.” 

E-Jets converted to freighters will have over 40% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbodies. If combining capacity under the floor and main deck, the maximum structural payload is 13,500 kg for the E190F.

Source Embraer / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

FARNBOROUGH, U.K- Eve Air Mobility (NYSE: EVEX; EVEXW), a global leader in manufacturing and providing services for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has announced a significant advancement in the assembly of its first full-scale eVTOL prototype. During the 45th Farnborough Airshow, the company unveiled the aircraft being built in the Embraer test facility of Gaviao Peixoto, Sao Paulo State.

“Our global team of engineers have shown exceptional dedication and expertise to successfully assemble our first full-scale eVTOL prototype,” said Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve Air Mobility. “This is a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to safety, accessibility and innovation. As we now turn our attention toward the preparation of a rigorous testing campaign, we are not just creating an aircraft, we’re building a comprehensive ecosystem of solutions that will shape the future of the Advanced Air Mobility industry.”

In addition to the roll-out of its prototype, Eve also announced that it has completed the selection of the primary suppliers for its eVTOL aircraft. As Eve advances into the next phase of development, the eVTOL prototype already has a series of comprehensive testing campaigns. These campaigns are designed to meticulously assess every aspect of the aircraft’s operation and performance, from flight capabilities to safety features. These valuable insights will play an important role in refining the design and functionality of the aircraft.

Through its relationship with Embraer, the world’s third-largest aircraft manufacturer, Eve is able to take advantage of Embraer’s 55 years of experience developing, designing, certifying, and producing aircraft as it develops its eVTOL. Additionally, customers will benefit from having access to an existing global network of service and support locations, critical to ensuring reliable, safe, and efficient operations.

With letters of intent for 2,900 eVTOLs, Eve’s aircraft utilizes eight dedicated propellers for vertical flight and fixed wings to fly in cruise, with no change in the position of these components during flight. The concept includes an electric pusher powered by dual electric motors that provide propulsion redundancy with the goal of ensuring the highest levels of performance, safety and dispatch reliability and low cost of operation.

Source Embraer / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

São José dos Campos, Brazil – The Brazilian National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) concluded the financing contract for the export of 32 Embraer E175 commercial jets to American Airlines. The operation, worth around R$4.5 billion, takes place through BNDES Exim Post-shipment, a direct credit line from the Bank to commercialization of national goods destined for export.

The announcement was made Friday July 19 in a ceremony at Embraer’s headquarters in São José dos Campos, interior of São Paulo state, which was attended by the Brazilian President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the Brazilian Vice-President, Geraldo Alckmin, the Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho, and the president of BNDES, Aloizio Mercadante, among other authorities.

“This financing will contribute to accelerating the production and export of our aircraft to American Airlines and boosts Brazil’s neo-industrialization process, increasing the country’s innovation and competitiveness,” said Francisco Gomes Neto, president and CEO of Embraer.

At the beginning of the year, American Airlines announced a firm order for 90 E175 jets, with purchase rights for an additional 43 aircraft. The jets will be delivered with 76 seats. If all purchase rights are exercised, the agreement will exceed US$ 7 billion in value, according to the list price. The value of the firm orders was included in Embraer’s backlog in the first quarter of 2024.

Source Embraer / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/23/24

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Lufthansa Technik announced an agreement to designate Lufthansa Technik as the first Boeing-licensed Service Center (BLSC) for cabin modifications on 787 Dreamliner airplanes, bringing additional choice and capacity to the market.

As a BLSC, Lufthansa Technik is licensed to perform interior modifications on the 787 as an external MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) service provider.

“We are pleased to bring additional interior modification capacity to 787 owners and operators by designating Lufthansa Technik as a Boeing Licensed Service Center. Through this novel collaboration, customers will benefit from Lufthansa Technik’s decades of MRO experience, and familiarity with the 787 platform,” said Doug Backhus, vice president of Boeing Cabins, Modifications and Maintenance.

The two parties will continue to make the necessary preparations to enable Lufthansa Technik to start its first 787 cabin modification project in 2025. The BLSC will complement Boeing’s existing 787 Interior Modifications offerings with additional capacity for the market.

This agreement on 787 cabin modifications follows the completion of the first base maintenance event on a 787 Dreamliner this April at Lufthansa Technik Malta.

Source Boeing / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/22/24

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Japan Airlines (JAL) today announced an agreement for up to 20 more 787 Dreamliners, as the 787’s market-leading efficiency and range are valued on international routes to North America, Asia and India. The deal includes 10 787-9s with options for 10 more, adding to JAL’s current fleet of more than 50 of the popular widebody jet.

“We are delighted to announce the addition of 787 Dreamliners to our fleet. This order underscores our commitment to accelerating the introduction of the modern and more fuel-efficient aircraft to deliver unparalleled service to our customers and further reduce CO₂ emissions. We greatly appreciate the strong relationship and support from Boeing, which has been instrumental in our efforts to modernize our fleet and expand our international routes,” said Yukio Nakagawa, JAL Executive Officer of Procurement.

In recent years, JAL has leveraged the versatility of the 787 to open new point-to-point markets from Tokyo to San Diego, Boston and Bangalore. With a range of up to 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km), the 787-9 possesses the longest-range capability within the 787 Dreamliner family, enabling JAL to open new routes and adding flexibility to its existing network.

Source Boeing / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/22/24

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Luxair announced today the European regional carrier is again ordering a new member of the 737 MAX family to power its sustainable growth. A year after purchasing the 737-7 and 737-8 models, Luxair has now placed an order for two 737-10 airplanes with options for two more. The 737-10 is the largest model in the MAX family and provides the best economics of any single-aisle jet.

“The purchase of the 737-10 is another step towards Luxair positioning for its future with the investment in the latest airplane technology that will support Luxair’s growth plans and the decarbonization of our fleet. There is high commonality between the 737 MAX models, and this allows for significant operational savings for the airline,” said Gilles Feith, Luxair CEO.

“In addition to reducing overall fuel use and emissions, the 737 MAXs will help create a 50 percent smaller noise footprint by reducing noise generated by takeoffs and landings at Luxembourg Airport.”

“With three members of the 737 MAX family in its fleet, Luxair will have the flexibility to use the right-size airplane according to the market demand,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “We appreciate Luxair for choosing the 737-10 to support its growth and improve the passenger experience, while realizing the benefits of operating an increasingly fuel-efficient fleet.”

Luxair currently operates a regional fleet of 21 airplanes, including two leased 737-8s and eight Next-Generation 737s. Luxair has expanded its route network by 30% in the past two years, serving 94 destinations.

Source Boeing / Edited by Fire and Aviation TV shared with Airline Adviser 07/22/24