The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA), headquartered in Malaysia, has announced that Qantas, Australia’s flagship carrier, has joined the organization with immediate effect. This significant development strengthens Qantas’ engagement within the Asia-Pacific aviation community and underscores its commitment to regional collaboration.
Avation, a Singapore-based aircraft lessor, has announced that Philippine Airlines (PAL) has not exercised the early termination option for its leased Boeing B777-300ER. As a result, the lease will continue through its full term, set to expire in December 2029.
Finnair (Finland) and American Airlines (US) have announced the launch of a codeshare agreement starting in January 2025, enabling seamless travel to 12 Mexican destinations via Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW). This partnership marks a significant enhancement in connectivity for Finnair’s European passengers, expanding their access to popular destinations in Mexico.
Emirates (UAE) has announced the discontinuation of its sole remaining Singapore–Australia fifth freedom route starting late March 2025. The decision comes as the airline shifts its focus toward non-stop Dubai–Melbourne services, optimizing its long-haul network.
China Southern Airlines has resumed its Changchun–Jeju service as of 02 January 2025. The route is operated using A320 aircraft, marking the airline’s continued commitment to enhancing regional connectivity between China and South Korea.
Zambia Airways has been asked by the Zambian government to acquire a second Boeing 737-800 as part of its efforts to meet the country’s growing demand for air travel. This move underscores the airline’s critical role in supporting Zambia’s connectivity and economic growth.
Korean Air has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-8, bearing serial number 63448, equipped with LEAP-1B engines. This aircraft will eventually serve as a VIP transport operated by South Korea’s Air Force, reflecting its critical role in supporting high-level governmental and military operations.
China Southern Airlines has announced plans to resume its direct service between Beijing Daxing International Airport and Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport starting March 3, 2025. The route will be operated using the Airbus A330, known for its comfort and efficiency on long-haul flights.
Lufthansa has successfully issued an unsecured euro hybrid bond with a total volume of US$515 million (approximately €475 million). This bond is part of Lufthansa’s financial strategy to maintain liquidity and strengthen its financial position. The bond bears an interest rate of 5.25% per annum and has a term of 30 years, demonstrating Lufthansa’s confidence in its long-term stability and growth.
Norwegian Group reported a total of 1.8 million passengers for December 2024, with 1.4 million traveling on the mainline unit and 293,000 flying with its subsidiary, Wideroe. Over the course of the year, the Group transported more than 26.4 million passengers, marking a significant recovery in travel demand across its network.
