Lufthansa is reportedly evaluating the registration of its forthcoming Boeing 787 aircraft in Switzerland, rather than Germany or another EU country, as a strategy to mitigate the impact of ongoing tariffs stemming from trade tensions between the United States and the European Union.
China’s imposition of retaliatory tariffs in response to trade policies introduced under US President Donald Trump is set to impact the financial feasibility of Boeing aircraft acquisitions by Chinese airlines. These tariffs, targeting key US exports, include significant increases on large civil aircraft, which could prompt Chinese carriers to rethink their fleet procurement strategies.
MTU Maintenance, the German-based global engine service provider, has announced the expansion of its MRO portfolio in the United States to include LEAP and GEnx engines. As part of this strategic move, its Fort Worth, Texas location will evolve from an on-site service center into a full disassembly, assembly, and test facility, enabling complete overhauls for these two key engine types.
Boeing has reported the delivery of 130 aircraft during the first quarter of 2025, reaffirming the manufacturer’s gradual recovery in production and delivery volumes. The latest figures include 105 Boeing 737s, the company’s best-selling narrowbody model, and 13 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, reflecting steady widebody demand.
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.
VietJet, Vietnam’s low-cost carrier, is preparing to sign a US$200 million aircraft financing agreement with AV Air Finance (US) next week, signaling continued momentum in its ambitious fleet expansion plans. The deal is expected to support upcoming deliveries and fortify VietJet’s financial position as it accelerates growth across its regional and long-haul networks.
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.
