Japan Airlines is finalizing preparations for the upcoming delivery of a new Airbus A350-900, continuing its long-term fleet modernization efforts. The aircraft, bearing the manufacturer serial number (MSN) 731, is part of the airline’s strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and passenger comfort across long-haul international routes.
Emirates will introduce a fourth daily flight between Dubai and London Gatwick starting 8 February 2026, marking a significant expansion of the airline’s operations in the UK. This additional service, designated EK069/070, will be operated using the airline’s newest aircraft, the Airbus A350-900, featuring state-of-the-art cabin interiors and enhanced passenger experience across three classes.
British Airways has announced the launch of special Avios-only flights between London Heathrow and Cape Townduring the peak festive period in December 2025. These flights will allow British Airways Executive Club members to book seats exclusively using Avios, the airline’s loyalty currency, rather than cash fares.
Swiss’ inaugural Airbus A350-900 has officially entered flight testing, marking a key milestone in the aircraft’s progress toward delivery. The A350-941, carrying manufacturer serial number 737, is registered as HB-IFA and has been named “Lausanne.” It is currently undergoing evaluations at Airbus’ Hamburg facility as part of the final stages before handover.
Francesco Sciortino will join the Executive Board of Lufthansa Airlines on September 1, 2025, assuming the role of Hub Manager for Frankfurt. He will also serve as Accountable Manager for the Lufthansa airline, marking a key leadership shift at one of Lufthansa’s core operational hubs.
Aer Lingus has posted a robust operating profit of €135 million for the second quarter of 2025, reflecting a marked improvement over the €91 million recorded during the same period in 2024. This significant uptick underscores the airline’s strategic success in expanding its transatlantic and European network, alongside disciplined cost management and favorable fuel prices.
Emirates has officially inaugurated its daily service between Dubai and Hangzhou, marking the airline’s fifth destination in mainland China and continuing a strategic expansion across East Asia. The new route, launched just weeks after the addition of Shenzhen, increases Emirates’ Chinese mainland services to 49 weekly flights, reinforcing its commitment to one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets.
Air Belgium’s cargo division has officially been transferred to CMA CGM Group, a global logistics leader in sea, land, air, and integrated supply chain services. The move, approved by the Business Court of Walloon Brabant in March 2025, was finalized following the issuance of new Belgian operating licenses by the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA).
Air New Zealand has announced that Nikhil Ravishankar, its current Chief Digital Officer, will become the airline’s new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Greg Foran, who steps down on 20 October. Ravishankar’s promotion marks a significant leadership shift, bringing deep digital expertise and strategic insight to the helm of one of the region’s most recognized carriers.
Arena Aviation Capital has successfully completed the acquisition of a portfolio of ten Embraer E190-100LR aircraft, all of which are leased to AeroMexico, in a landmark transaction for the company’s growing portfolio. The acquisition, finalized on June 17, 2025, marks Arena’s first foray into the regional aircraft space, executed on behalf of a US-based investor client.
