Kenya Airways, a major player in African aviation, is currently facing significant operational hurdles with its fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. According to CEO Allan Kilavuka, three of these aircraft have not been airborne since February 2025, primarily due to the airline’s challenges in securing the appropriate engines and spare parts.
AerCap CEO Aengus Kelly has raised concerns over potential tariff implications that could lead to a significant price hike in Boeing 787 aircraft costs. In a worst-case scenario, the price of a B787 could increase by up to $40 million per unit, creating challenges for airlines and lessors managing fleet expansion and replacement plans.
Lufthansa Technik Malta has announced plans to build a new 6,400-square-meter hangar to support Boeing 787 cabin modifications, strengthening its MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) capabilities. The expansion will enable the company to increase service capacity and accommodate growing demand for cabin retrofits and upgrades.
Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, is preparing for a significant fleet expansion in 2025, with 14 to 16 new aircraft deliveries planned. The expected additions include four Embraer E190-E2s, seven to nine Airbus A320s, and three Boeing 787s, supporting Scoot’s regional and long-haul growth strategy.
LOT Polish Airlines has announced plans to source additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners from the secondary market, as production backlogs and limited delivery slots prevent the airline from receiving new aircraft before the next decade. This move reflects LOT’s strategy to expand its long-haul fleet, ensuring continued growth despite supply chain constraints affecting new aircraft availability.
Air New Zealand is preparing for potential operational disruptions in 2H 2025, as it anticipates up to 11 aircraft being grounded at various points due to ongoing maintenance and supply chain constraints. To mitigate these issues, the airline is securing two additional leased engines, supplementing its previously announced two leased A321s, all expected to enter service before the end of the year.
Hawaiian Airlines has confirmed further delays in the delivery of its remaining Boeing 787s, with the timeline now extending out to 2029. This follows an update from Boeing, as the manufacturer continues to face production and supply chain challenges.
Boeing has reported 45 aircraft deliveries for January 2025, making it the company’s busiest January in recent years. Among these deliveries, 40 were B737 MAX, including seven aircraft to unidentified Chinese airlines.
Cathay Pacific, the flagship carrier of Hong Kong, has officially launched a bidding process to acquire new widebody aircraft, with the Airbus A350, Boeing B787, and B777X competing for the order. While the final number of jets to be procured has not been confirmed, this development highlights Cathay Pacific’s commitment to modernizing its fleet.
Austrian Airlines is considering extending the operation of its Boeing 767 fleet into 2026, following delays in the delivery of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The airline, which had initially planned for a gradual transition to newer aircraft, now faces uncertainty regarding the arrival of its third B787-9, previously expected in 2025.
