PLAY, the Icelandic low-cost airline, has announced the continuation of its ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) agreement with SkyUp Malta for four aircraft, extending the arrangement through 2027. This move solidifies PLAY’s operational capacity and network flexibility as it scales up during peak travel seasons.
Saudia Group has signed a significant aircraft acquisition deal with Airbus, committing to the addition of up to 20 A330neo widebody aircraft to support the group’s long-term fleet expansion plans. Of these, 10 are firm orders allocated to flyadeal, the group’s low-cost subsidiary. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027 and conclude by 2029.
Thai Airways International has reaffirmed its commitment to fleet expansion as a core element of its strategic growth plan, confirming that its order for 45 Boeing 787 aircraft remains active, with deliveries set to begin from mid-2027. In addition to this substantial widebody order, the airline also announced intentions to procure an additional 35 aircraft, contingent on evolving market conditions and demand recovery.
Enter Air, the Polish charter airline, is strengthening its fleet ahead of the peak summer 2025 travel season by leasing three Boeing B737-800s. The move supports the carrier’s growth strategy as it seeks to increase market share in the European leisure segment during high-demand periods.
IndiGo is set to receive its first Airbus A321XLR by June 2025, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion into long-haul international markets. The aircraft will enable direct flights from India to Western Europe and Far East Asia, unlocking new route possibilities.
Eurowings, a subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group, has announced plans to modernize its fleet with 40 new Boeing B737-8 aircraft, starting in 2027. These aircraft will be allocated from a 2023 order placed by the Lufthansa Group, demonstrating the parent company’s commitment to optimizing its group-wide fleet strategy.
Austrian Airlines has announced an extension of its wet leasing cooperation agreement with Sweden-based carrier BRA (Braathens Regional Airlines) until 2027. The partnership, which began nearly a year ago, involves BRA operating three ATR72-600 aircraft on behalf of Austrian Airlines.
KLM (Netherlands) has issued an appeal to its part-time pilots, requesting them to transition back to full-time roles as the airline faces a potential pilot shortage that could impact its operations by 2027. The carrier warns that without adequate cockpit staffing, it may be forced to ground part of its fleet, jeopardizing its operational efficiency and service offerings.
Luxair, the national carrier of Luxembourg, has signed a firm order with Embraer for two additional E195-E2 jets, bringing its total order to six aircraft. Luxair’s first E195-E2, part of its 2023 order, is scheduled for delivery in early 2026, while the new order secures additional delivery slots in 2027. The airline also retains three purchase rights for future expansions.
Ryanair (Ireland) has revealed its forecast for European flight operations, stating that its overall offering is expected to remain largely unchanged until 2027. However, the carrier has announced plans to reduce capacity into Germany, citing the impact of elevated taxes and fees on its operations.
