SMBC Aviation Capital (Ireland) CEO Peter Barrett has expressed concerns over persistent delays in aircraft deliveries from Boeing and Airbus. According to Barrett, these delays are affecting nearly every aircraft delivery. However, he noted that enginemakers have made slight improvements in addressing their operational challenges.
Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced that it will extend the retirement timeline for its Boeing 777 fleet due to global delivery delays affecting new aircraft. Despite this adjustment, JAL confirmed that the first six A350-1000s on order are arriving as scheduled, ensuring gradual fleet modernization.
Aircraft Leasing & Management (UK) has announced the sale of an Airbus A320, identified by serial number 4001, to elfc (Ireland). The aircraft remains subject to an existing lease with Avianca (Colombia), ensuring its continued operation within the Avianca fleet.
Cebu Pacific (Philippines) has successfully closed its first-ever sustainability-linked Japanese Operating Lease with Call Option (JOLCO) for a new Airbus A321neo. This milestone financing reflects the airline’s commitment to integrating sustainable practices into its growth strategy.
Airbus has announced its 2024 performance, reporting the delivery of 766 commercial aircraft to customers worldwide. The year also saw 878 gross orders and 826 net orders, reflecting strong demand across its product range.
Air India has finalized its comprehensive aircraft order with Airbus, comprising a total of 350 aircraft. The order includes 210 A321neo, 90 A320neo, 25 A350-900, and 25 A350-1000 models. As part of this agreement, six A350-900s have already been delivered, marking a significant milestone in Air India’s ongoing fleet modernization strategy.
Air Algérie has revised its aircraft order with Airbus, canceling its initial commitment for two A350-1000s while placing a new order for three additional A330-900s. This adjustment reflects the airline’s evolving fleet strategy to optimize its operations and better meet market demands.
STARLUX Airlines (Taiwan) has placed a firm order with Airbus for an additional five A350F freighters, reinforcing its commitment to fleet modernization and expanding its cargo capacity. The new freighters will be powered by Trent XWB-97 engines, which offer superior fuel efficiency and performance.
Korean Air appears to be evaluating the possibility of operating its Airbus A380 fleet beyond the previously announced retirement year of 2026. Recent developments include sending several of its A380 superjumbos to Lufthansa Technik Philippines for D-checks, a major maintenance procedure required for long-term operational readiness.
AFI KLM E&M and CFM International (US) have signed an agreement to purchase up to 10 spare LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines. These engines will bolster AFI KLM E&M’s portfolio of LEAP Premier MRO services, enabling the company to provide comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul solutions to airline customers globally.
