Boeing’s 777X program continues to face serious delays, with certification now unlikely before 2027—six years behind schedule and far past its original 2020 target. The prolonged setbacks have forced major airline customers, including Emirates and Qatar Airways, to revisit their fleet strategies as international travel demand rebounds.
Unical Aviation has announced the acquisition of an Airbus A330-200 airframe from UK-based aviation asset firm AOG247, further strengthening its position as a key supplier of high-demand aircraft components. This newly acquired aircraft is currently undergoing disassembly, and its parts will soon be made available to support the operational and maintenance needs of airlines, aircraft operators, and MROs worldwide.
Japan Airlines (JAL) has officially taken delivery of its 10th Airbus A350-1000, continuing its strategic overhaul of its international long-haul fleet. The newest aircraft, registered as JA10WJ, joined the fleet on July 17, 2025, as part of the airline’s broader plan to phase out its aging Boeing 777-300ERs in favor of more efficient, modern widebodies.
Turkish Airlines has expanded its diverse fleet with the addition of two aircraft: one Airbus A350-900, serial number 734 which previously flew for Lufthansa, and one Airbus A321, serial number 5025, acquired through a lease from CDB Aviation. This dual delivery supports the airline’s ambitious growth plans and strategic focus on modernizing both long-haul and regional operations.
Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has added a new Airbus A350-1000 to its widebody fleet, bearing serial number 730. The delivery reflects Etihad’s continuing investment in fuel-efficient, long-range aircraft to support its growing intercontinental route network and sustainability goals.
Parata Air, a startup airline based in South Korea, is preparing to commence commercial operations in September 2025, following expected approval of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The airline will begin with a fleet of four aircraft, comprising both widebody and narrowbody types through leasing arrangements.
Nepal Airlines has now repaid $3.9 million in loan installments tied to the financing of its commercial aircraft fleet, consisting of two narrowbody and two widebody aircraft. This repayment is part of the carrier’s obligations from loans obtained for the acquisition of these aircraft during an earlier fleet modernization phase.
Japan Airlines (JAL) has taken delivery of a new Airbus A350-1000, with manufacturer serial number (MSN) 729, continuing its widebody fleet renewal strategy. The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the most powerful engines in the Trent family, specifically developed for the A350-1000 to enhance long-haul efficiency and range.
Airbus has released its commercial aircraft delivery and order results for the first half of 2026, reporting 306 aircraft deliveries, representing a 5.56% decline compared to the 323 units delivered in the same period of 2024. Despite the drop in deliveries, the European planemaker posted strong new order activity, reflecting continued customer confidence in its aircraft lineup.
Alaska Air Group, one of the largest carriers in the United States, has announced plans to exercise options for five additional Boeing 787-9s, expanding its long-haul capabilities. Simultaneously, the airline will firm up additional options for Boeing 737-10s, reinforcing its narrowbody growth strategy.
