Astral Aviation, a Nairobi-based cargo airline, has taken delivery of its first Boeing B767-300F freighter, marking a key milestone in its fleet modernization and expansion strategy. The aircraft is identified by serial number 24146, and it becomes the airline’s most capable long-haul freighter to date.
Air New Zealand has taken redelivery of its first retrofitted Boeing B787-9, identified by serial number 37964, after a six-month cabin upgrade program carried out in Singapore. This marks the airline’s first completed retrofit under its multi-year widebody refurbishment strategy.
Air Europa, the Spanish carrier currently undergoing a privatization and acquisition process, is facing increased uncertainty in its sale as the airline evaluates underwhelming offers from major European airline groups. Bids submitted by both Lufthansa (Germany) and Air France-KLM are reportedly below expectations, casting doubt over the timing and structure of a potential transaction.
Ryanair, Europe’s largest low-cost airline, has taken delivery of a new Boeing B737-8200 aircraft, further expanding its high-capacity fleet. The aircraft is registered under serial number 62386 and is powered by LEAP-1B27 engines manufactured by CFM International.
HNA Aviation Group, one of China’s prominent aviation conglomerates, has put its B737-800SF freighter conversion program on hold, following escalating trade tensions between China and the United States. The aircraft conversions were being carried out in partnership with AEI – Aeronautical Engineers Inc., a U.S.-based specialist in passenger-to-freighter (P2F) programs.
China Southern Airlines, one of the largest carriers in Asia, has suspended the planned sale of 10 Boeing B787-8 aircraft, citing the escalating trade tensions between China and the United States. The decision underscores how geopolitical dynamics are increasingly influencing commercial aviation transactions.
Aeolus Engine Service, based in Ireland, has announced the acquisition of two Boeing B737-700 aircraft, as part of its ongoing strategic investment in engine material and aircraft asset management. The aircraft are identified by serial numbers 33932 and 36073, and both are powered by CFM56-7B22 engines, which are widely used in the Boeing 737 Next Generation series.
Ryanair (Ireland) CEO Michael O’Leary has issued a warning that the airline may delay future deliveries of Boeing aircraft if planned US trade tariffs significantly increase acquisition costs. This statement underscores the potential disruption that escalating trade tensions between the United States and Europe could have on international aircraft procurement.
Batik Air Malaysia has announced plans to inaugurate nonstop service between Kuala Lumpur and Sapporo, starting 3 July 2025. The new international route will be operated using Boeing 737-800 aircraft and marks the airline’s expansion into Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido.
United Airlines (US) has added a new Boeing 737-8, serial number 67517, to its growing fleet of next-generation narrowbody aircraft. The aircraft is powered by LEAP-1B27 engines and forms part of United’s larger investment in the Boeing 737 MAX program aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and route flexibility.
