Air Canada explored the possibility of switching future aircraft orders from Boeing 787 to Airbus A350 due to tariff concerns, yet such a move is deemed unlikely. The Boeing 787 is crucial for Air Canada’s fleet strategy, providing fuel efficiency and meeting increasing passenger demand. Exemptions and a strategic focus on fleet renewal favor maintaining current orders.
Browsing: Airline Updates
WestJet has made a landmark agreement by ordering up to 96 Boeing aircraft, including both 737 MAX and 787 models. This acquisition is the largest in WestJet’s history and solidifies its competitive stance against Air Canada by expanding its fleet to meet long-term growth and operational needs.
Thai Airways is eliminating its first class service and focusing on modernizing its fleet to enhance premium offerings. The airline will introduce business class suites and a “business class plus” option on new Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A321neo aircraft. This strategy aims to deliver a consistent passenger experience while addressing operational inefficiencies.
Delta Air Lines is intensifying its operations at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport by launching a daily nonstop flight to Miami and investing significantly in infrastructure and staffing. This expansion includes increasing daily flights to 150 and establishing a large Delta Sky Club, all while enhancing its partnership with LATAM to improve Latin American connectivity.
American Airlines plans to phase out its Flagship First class due to economic inefficiencies and growing investments in business class. While competitors have already eliminated first class, American adapts by introducing the Flagship Suite, a new cabin product featured on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and A321XLR fleet. The move reflects a broader industry trend toward enhanced business and premium economy offerings, optimizing seat availability and passenger comfort.
China Eastern Airlines is set to launch the world’s longest direct passenger flight from Shanghai to Buenos Aires on December 4, 2025. This record-setting service covers over 12,200 miles, takes nearly 29 hours, and includes a brief layover in Auckland, allowing passengers to remain on board the same aircraft. This route strengthens China-Argentina ties while providing a strategic air travel option.
Etihad Airways reached a new milestone by transporting over two million passengers in August 2025, a first in its history. This achievement reflects a 22% year-on-year increase, with notable growth in its network and fleet. For the year-to-date, the airline has carried 14.2 million passengers, marking an 18.3% increase over the previous year.
Qantas Airways has expanded its Airbus A321XLR order from 20 to a total of 40 aircraft to enhance its fleet’s efficiency and range capabilities. This move supports Qantas’s strategy to modernize its fleet with fuel-efficient planes, offering potential for expanded routes and better economic performance.
Air Niugini has taken delivery of its first Airbus A220-300 aircraft, financed by Azorra, with plans for two additional A220-300s and eight A220-100s. This newly acquired plane, adorned with a livery celebrating Papua New Guinea’s 50th independence anniversary, was received in Port Moresby and boasts advanced Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, promising reduced emissions.
Lufthansa is expanding its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operations this winter, replacing the Airbus A340 on numerous US routes. While routes like Frankfurt-Atlanta and Frankfurt-Detroit will experience reduced service frequency, others will maintain regular schedules. The airline’s Dreamliner fleet, set for significant expansion, reflects its strategic emphasis on modernization.