Republic Airways Holdings and Mesa Air Group, two of the largest regional airline operators in the United States, have announced a definitive agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction. The deal will create a new, publicly traded regional airline company, consolidating resources, fleets, and operational platforms under a unified corporate structure.
British Airways and Qatar Airways have received a five-year extension from the New Zealand government on their existing joint business agreement (JBA), reinforcing the strategic cooperation between the UK and Qatari flag carriers on flights to and from New Zealand. In a significant expansion of the agreement, Iberia—the national airline of Spain—has also been officially included in the refreshed deal.
Play Airlines, the low-cost carrier based in Iceland, has accepted a settlement offer from the Financial Supervisory Authority (FME) relating to issues around the disclosure of its lower revenue generation in 2022. As part of the settlement, the airline has agreed to pay a fine of US$120,800.
Air Antilles, the regional carrier based in Guadeloupe, is facing a major setback in its commercial development efforts as its CEO accuses Corsair and Air France of refusing to sign interline agreements. These agreements are seen as essential to the airline’s strategy to integrate into broader international networks and offer seamless connectivity for passengers.
VietJet, Vietnam’s low-cost carrier, is preparing to sign a US$200 million aircraft financing agreement with AV Air Finance (US) next week, signaling continued momentum in its ambitious fleet expansion plans. The deal is expected to support upcoming deliveries and fortify VietJet’s financial position as it accelerates growth across its regional and long-haul networks.
United Airlines has expanded its next-generation narrowbody fleet with the delivery of a new Airbus A321neo, serial number 12385, powered by PW1133G-JM engines. This addition supports United’s ongoing fleet renewal program aimed at improving efficiency and passenger experience across its domestic and transcontinental operations.
SalamAir, the low-cost carrier based in Oman, is set to continue its strategic fleet expansion with the upcoming delivery of its 15th aircraft in June 2025—an Airbus A321 acquired on lease from SMBC Aviation Capital (Ireland). A second A321 is also scheduled to arrive in July, further strengthening the airline’s mid-capacity aircraft portfolio.
KLM, the flag carrier of the Netherlands, has taken delivery of a new Airbus A321neo, bearing serial number 12473, as part of its ongoing fleet modernization efforts. The aircraft is powered by LEAP-1A30 engines, manufactured by CFM International, and represents a major step forward in the airline’s push for operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
FedEx Feeder, the regional cargo arm of FedEx Express in the United States, has taken delivery of a new ATR72-600F freighter, serial number 1765. The aircraft is operated by Swiftair, based in Spain, and is powered by PW127M engines developed by Pratt & Whitney.
Eurowings, the low-cost subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group based in Germany, has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-800, serial number 37360, under a wet lease agreement with Smartwings of Czechia. The aircraft is powered by CFM56-7B27 engines and is expected to operate throughout the peak 2025 season to support Eurowings’ expanded flight schedule.
