A handful of markets show signs of recovery for passenger traffic. But airlines typically focused on long-haul international service are nowhere close to calling it a recovery. With air cargo capacity still depressed around the globe Finnair is the latest to add more cargo capacity to its operations, bringing a temporary conversion online for its A330s in partnership with Airbus and Lufthansa Technik.
A330
RwandAir plans JFK service launch (again)
Previously tipped for a 2019 launch, RwandAir is once again planning flights to the USA. The carrier filed its application with the US Department of Transportation this week to operate service to New York on its own A330s. It anticipates beginning the operations in December 2021.
Aer Lingus Launches UK subsidiary, applies for US route authorities
Aer Lingus (U.K.) Limited is the latest airline seeking access to the US market. The newly established subsidiary of Aer Lingus is based in Belfast, Northern Ireland and will be the aircraft operator of record for the company’s planned Manchester, UK base in Summer 2021.
Airbus, EASA warn on parked aircraft battery issues
With thousands of aircraft parked around the globe this year the industry is learning more and more about the impact of these long-term storage actions. This week Airbus and EASA issued an advisory regarding battery systems on the A320, A330, A340 and A380 family aircraft that “could lead to reduced battery endurance performance, possibly resulting […]
Delta shifts pilots for new normal
There’s more to Delta’s fleet plan than just this week’s 777 retirement news. The company is shifting crew bases as it adjusts its network and fleet deployments. And while no other types are immediately slated for retirement, the writing is certainly on the wall.
Airbus aims to ease "COVID Combi" temporary freighter conversions
How quickly can an airline convert a passenger plane to freighter service? Airbus hope to ease the process for the A330 and A350 with a new Service Bulletin modification.
American, Delta confirm accelerated fleet retirements
Looking to fly on an American Airlines 767 or E190? It is too late. Both aircraft types, already slated for retirement, had that process accelerated as a result of the COVID-19 induced demand drop. They will not return to passenger service from their current groundings. And those aren’t the only cuts.
TSI Aviation Seats gains access to Airbus BFE catalog
Airlines purchasing the A350, A330/neo and A320/neo family aircraft now have a new option for a seating supplier. TSI Aviation Seats, a joint operation led by Turkish Technic, is now listed in the BFE catalog opening up new sales channels for the operation.
A Hong Kong Surprise: PaxEx Update (16 August 2019)
A surprise twist in the Hong Kong protests as Cathay CEO Rupert Hogg resigns. Plus RFID for bags, VR for passengers and new aircraft types launching service soon. A busy week with plenty to uncover in this edition of PaxEx Update!
First A330neo delivered for AirAsia X Thailand [Photos]
The first of 66 A330neo aircraft for AirAsia X was delivered this weekend from Airbus. The aircraft will fly for the Thailand long-haul affiliate of the brand and is one of two expected to join the fleet this year. Here’s what it looks like inside.