Cathay Group orders two more Airbus A350F freighters

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Cathay Group has placed a firm order with Airbus for two additional Airbus A350F freighters. This will bring the airline’s total order to eight of the new-generation cargo aircraft. The A350F will be operated by the airline’s cargo division, Cathay Cargo, bringing new levels of efficiency across its extensive network.

Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 20% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. It is the only new freighter fully meeting ICAO’s 2027 CO₂ emission standards. The A350F is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to-service, with the aim for up to 100% capability by 2030, as with all Airbus aircraft.

Qatar Airways Unveils FIFA Special Livery and Bespoke Onboard Experience on Boeing 777-300 A7-BEH

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Qatar Airways has officially unveiled its FIFA special livery aircraft on a Boeing 777-300 (A7-BEH) ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, celebrating the airline’s longstanding partnership with FIFA and its continued role in connecting fans, teams, and global football communities worldwide.

Building on the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the new livery reflects the next chapter in Qatar Airways’ journey with FIFA as the Official Airline Partner of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The special livery aircraft will operate across key destinations in Europe, the United States and Asia, engaging fans around the world as excitement continues to build ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Inspired by the energy, passion, and global unity of football’s biggest tournament, the distinctive new livery captures the vibrant spirit of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ through its bold and dynamic design that will travel throughout the airline’s global network.

In addition to the exterior design, the aircraft interior features bespoke cabin dressing inspired by FIFA World Cup 2026™. Designed exclusively for this special livery, it brings the ambiance and excitement of the tournament into the inflight experience. Following the tournament, the aircraft will continue to fly with both the special livery and cabin dressing to commemorate the event.

As the Official Airline Partner of FIFA, Qatar Airways continues to play a leading role in global sport, connecting fans, teams, and destinations through its growing international network and award-winning travel experience.

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, bringing together the world’s best national teams in the largest edition of the tournament to date.

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Air China Cargo increases A350F freighter order to 10 aircraft

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Air China Cargo has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for four additional A350F freighters, taking its total order for the type to 10 aircraft. Air China Cargo previously ordered six A350F freighters in November 2025.

Air China Cargo began introducing Airbus freighters at the end of 2023, and currently operates a fleet of eight Airbus A330-200P2F aircraft. In the near future, the A350F freighter will join Air China Cargo’s fleet and will complement the A330-200P2F freighters, maximising their advantages on long-haul and medium-to-long-haul routes.

Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 20% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. It is the only freighter fully meeting ICAO’s 2027 CO₂ emission standards. The A350F is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to-service, with the aim for up to 100% capability by 2030, as with all Airbus aircraft.

At the end of April 2026, the A350F had registered 101 orders from 14 customers.

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Saudia becomes first Middle East and Africa operator of the Airbus A321XLR

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Saudia, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has taken delivery of its first A321XLR, marking a significant milestone as the first airline in the Middle East and Africa to operate Airbus’ newest extra-long-range single-aisle aircraft.

The aircraft, powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines, is the first of 15 A321XLRs on order by the airline. This delivery is a cornerstone of Saudia’s comprehensive fleet modernisation program, directly supporting the expansion of its international network in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. By increasing connectivity and capacity, the A321XLR will support the Kingdom’s ambition to attract over 150 million visitors annually by the end of the decade.

This delivery reinforces a partnership between Airbus and Saudia that spans more than 40 years, beginning with the carrier’s first A300 delivery in 1984. Today, Airbus aircraft remain central to Saudia’s operations as it scales its fleet development and network growth.

Saudia currently serves more than 100 destinations across four continents, with the A321XLR supporting further expansion into new international markets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, the A321XLR enables Saudia to expand its international destinations with a single-aisle aircraft. These routes would have traditionally been served by larger widebody aircraft, while maintaining a premium guest experience.

The aircraft features a highly premium, low-density configuration with 24 full flat Business Class seats providing direct aisle access, alongside 120 comfortable Economy Class seats. The aircraft features the Airbus Airspace Cabin, bringing a widebody experience to a single-aisle jet. Key features include extra-large overhead bins, advanced lighting systems and one of the quietest cabins in its class.

American Airlines invests in future aviation professionals through partnership with OBAP

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American Airlines welcomed more than 100 early career professionals from the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) Ascension Program to its Robert L. Crandall Campus for a behind-the-scenes look at airline operations and career opportunities across the industry.

The professional development event, held for the first time outside of the annual OBAP conference, exposed students to aviation career pathways and offered a look at how American is helping shape the future of the industry.

Throughout the day, students connected with leaders across flight operations, engineering and more, engaged in panel discussions and toured the Integrated Operations Center, where they learned how real-time decisions support safe and efficient operations centered on the airline’s customers.

The event also is part of the long-standing partnership between American and OBAP — a collaboration focused on expanding access, representation and opportunity in aviation. Together, the organizations continue to build pathways for future aviation leaders.

From conversations on leadership and innovation to advice on navigating early careers, the day emphasized the value of curiosity, mentorship and connection. Students were encouraged to engage in meaningful dialogue through questions, build relationships and envision their future in aviation. The day concluded with networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect directly with American leaders and peers and reinforcing the role relationships play in building a successful career.

Through partnerships like OBAP, American continues to invest in the next generation of aviation professionals. As OBAP approaches its 50th annual conference this August in Chicago, the milestone underscores the organization’s lasting impact across the aerospace industry.

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American Airlines launches four new routes

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American Airlines on May 21, 2026 launched four new routes to unlock even more access between the U.S. and Europe with new nonstop service to Budapest, Hungary (BUD) and Prague (PRG) from Philadelphia (PHL), and to Athens, Greece (ATH), and Zurich (ZRH) from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW).

The inaugural flights took off with fanfare today, coinciding with the first day of American’s highly anticipated record-breaking summer travel season and strengthening American’s European network with up to 70 daily flights from the U.S.

With new service to BUD and PRG, American introduces two brand-new destinations to its global network. Daily seasonal service from PHL to BUD and PRG operates with American’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft. New service from DFW to ATH and ZRH operates with a mix of its Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing 777-200ER aircraft.

Fortifying Philadelphia as American’s trans-Atlantic gateway

Summer 2026 marks the first peak travel period with American’s new-and-improved PHL schedule, built for smoother, more reliable journeys and stronger customer connections. The new schedule spreads flights more evenly throughout the day, expanding from six to seven “banks,” or coordinated waves of arrivals and departures — improving flow across the airport from parking, check-in, security and in the terminals.

The investment is already showing strong early results, with improvements in on-time performance and customer connections while bolstering the airline’s best-ever systemwide baggage handling.

This summer, American’s PHL hub offers customers nonstop service to more than 120 destinations worldwide, including 19 destinations across the Atlantic. The airline also recently launched direct service from PHL to Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI).

Reinforcing the power of American’s flagship hub

ATH and ZRH join more than 230 other nonstop destinations accessible from DFW, American’s largest and most connected hub — a hub that plays a crucial role in delivering for customers across American’s global operation this summer.

DFW also recently transformed its schedule, introducing a new 13-bank schedule that more evenly distributes the airline’s more than 930 peak daily departures throughout the day at DFW. In just the first two months since implementing the strategy, the new schedule is already showcasing its benefits to customers at DFW and across the airline by minimizing delays, improving customer connections, reducing gate changes and delivering even better baggage handling performance — which are all contributing to the noticeable increase in customer satisfaction.

“New service to Athens and Zurich is a great example of how American continues to invest in its largest hub with even more opportunities to connect to destinations around the world,” said American’s Senior Vice President of DFW Operations Jim Moses. “We’re also investing in the travel journey with our new 13-bank schedule that sets up our team for success and delivers for our customers — not just at DFW but across our entire airline due to the outsized impact DFW has on our global operation.”

Customers, team members and partners celebrated the inaugural flights from DFW to ATH and ZRH with cultural performances, authentic food and fun.

More nonstop options for a record-breaking summer

Today also marks the start of American’s centennial summer, with the airline set to care for more customers than ever across its largest summer schedule to date — 75 million customers across 750,000 flights.

In addition to the new international routes launched today, American has also recently added more access to Europe from other hubs, including new nonstop service from Miami (MIA) to Milan (MXP), as well as New York (JFK) to Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI).

Caring for our customers

American’s renewed focus on customers has come with several enhancements to the travel experience — from the airport to in flight — this summer.

Get the redesigned app for your journey: American’s reimagined mobile app continues to evolve to support customer travel needs with easy, self-service tools to manage travel with the ability to rebook, track bags and receive digital vouchers. Plus, the expanded digital wallet integration further helps all customers stay informed with live updates without needing to open the app.
Enroll in TSA PreCheck^® Touchless ID: Make the security process more seamless with TSA PreCheck^® Touchless ID, providing participating customers a much faster, touchless identity verification process. The customer opt-in program is now available at 60 airports, including all of American’s hubs.
Relax in premium lounge spaces: Customers connecting to Europe at PHL can enjoy two of the newest lounge offerings in American’s network at the Flagship^® and Admirals Club^® lounges in A-West, providing a calm and comfortable space to enhance the airport experience. Lounges are also available at all five terminals when connecting to Europe through DFW, including a Flagship^®lounge in Terminal D.
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T: On nearly every domestic American flight, all AAdvantage^® members can enjoy free Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T.

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Berjaya Air Takes Delivery of World’s First Aircraft in ATR HighLine Configuration

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The world’s first ATR 72-600 featuring the ATR HighLine “All-Business Class” configuration touched down in Kuala Lumpur, marking a major milestone for regional aviation. ATR’s new cabin concept received certification from both EASA and the Malaysian authorities earlier this month, confirming its readiness for commercial operations worldwide.

The delivery represents a dual first for Berjaya Air; the airline’s inaugural ATR 72-600 and the launch platform for ATR’s new premium cabin collection. It also heralds a new era in regional travel, combining semi-private flying comfort with the proven efficiency of turboprop operations.

The aircraft features a fully bespoke, all–business class cabin, accommodating 26 seats in a spacious and unique 1-by-1 layout, ensuring every guest benefits from direct aisle access and direct view to multiple windows. The handcrafted ETEREA seats by Geven – the widest ever installed on the ATR platform – offer generous living space and a refined personal side console with integrated stowage.

One of the cabin’s most distinctive elements is the executive‑style ceiling, where overhead bins have been replaced by sleek valence panels. This design opens up the cabin, floods the interior with natural light, and creates a volume comparable to that of the world’s largest private aircraft – all on board the most fuel-efficient regional aircraft.

Berjaya Air will begin operating the aircraft in the coming days, launching its first flight on a new route between Subang and Koh Samui. It will then roll out its “affordable luxury” experience on its newly expanded regional network, with direct connections throughout Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, and a focus on serving Berjaya Group’s portfolio of hotels and resorts. Travellers will benefit from a seamless experience that offer a high touch of hospitality to island destinations such as Redang and Langkawi. The new aircraft in ATR HighLine All-Business Class configuration will also be available for charter operations across the Asia-Pacific region.

Berjaya Air is Malaysia’s first premium boutique airline redefining regional travel through comfort, care, and simplicity. Operating from Subang Airport, we offer a refined flying experience that blends the exclusivity of private travel with elegant luxury.

American Airlines and Miami HEAT announce a multiyear sponsorship extension

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American Airlines and the Miami HEAT today announced a multiyear sponsorship extension, with American continuing as the Official Airline of the Miami HEAT. As Miami’s hometown airline and the country’s largest gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, American is continuing its long-term investment in the city through the renewed partnership, which includes experiences for fans, as well as in-arena promotion at basketball games throughout the season at the Kaseya Center.

Through this partnership, American is bringing fans and members of its award-winning AAdvantage^® loyalty program closer to the action with unique game day experiences. AAdvantage^® members will have opportunities to participate in the HEAT Perks sweepstakes program, with chances to win exclusive prizes, giveaways, travel to select away games and VIP experiences with the Miami HEAT throughout the year. Members can also redeem AAdvantage^® miles for access to games and experiences, turning loyalty into memorable moments on and off the court.

Building on more than 25 years of partnership

This sponsorship extension builds on a partnership that spans more than 25 years. Earlier this year American celebrated its centennial, while the Miami HEAT marked the 20th anniversary of the 2006 Miami HEAT Championship team.

As part of the celebration, American served as the Presenting Partner of a commemorative game, receiving in-game and social media recognition and hosting a postgame concert featuring Dwyane Wade. The event included exclusive benefits for 100 AAdvantage^® members, such as priority viewing access, photo opportunities with the 2006 NBA Finals Championship trophy and signed merchandise giveaways.

Commitment to community

American Airlines and the Miami HEAT share a commitment to supporting the South Florida community. Most recently, the organizations have partnered on initiatives, including HEAT Day of Service presented by American, providing fresh groceries to underserved communities and enhancing the gardens and interior of the Overtown Youth Center with Alonzo Mourning, helping inspire, empower and enrich the lives of youth, families and adults in the Overtown community.

Deepening American’s investment in Miami

This sponsorship renewal underscores American’s nearly four-decade commitment to Miami. Earlier this year, the airline announced expansion plans for a brand-new, reimagined Concourse D at Miami International Airport (MIA) in partnership with Miami-Dade County. The new Gate D60 project will deliver gates built for modern aircraft, transform the customer experience and make travel more seamless at the country’s largest gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean.

In 1989, American operated 19 flights a day to six cities from MIA. Today, the airline operates more than 400 peak daily flights to 170 destinations across 46 countries and territories, serving more than 32 million customers annually to and from MIA.

American has also announced plans to open a new, state-of-the-art Flagship^® lounge, along with a major expansion of its Admirals Club^® facilities, at MIA. Over the past year, the airline has installed new self-service kiosks that make check-in faster than ever and implemented technology that has saved thousands of customer connections systemwide.

The airline has made significant progress with its federal partners at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in programs like TSA PreCheck^® Touchless ID and Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) that make security screening easier and quicker, while upholding the highest levels of security.

A New Viking Takes Flight: SAS Names Its Latest Airbus A350-900 in Honor of King Frederik X

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SAS names its latest Airbus A350-900 (SE-RSH) “Frederik Viking” in honor of His Majesty King Frederik X, the King of Denmark, during a ceremony at Copenhagen Airport, as the airline celebrates its 80th anniversary year.

His Majesty King Frederik X attended the naming ceremony on May 18, 2026. The aircraft operated flight SK987 from Copenhagen to Seoul Incheon later that evening.

SAS aircraft traditionally carry Viking-inspired names, reflecting the airline’s Scandinavian heritage.

The Airbus A350 is the flagship of SAS’ long-haul fleet and serves intercontinental routes from Copenhagen to destinations across North America and Asia. From its Copenhagen hub, SAS continues to expand its global network, linking Denmark with the wider Scandinavian region and key international markets.

The aircraft forms part of SAS’ fleet renewal program and represents the most modern and fuel-efficient aircraft in its category, contributing to lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon emissions compared with previous generations.

Designed to enhance the travel experience, the A350 features a quiet cabin environment, improved air quality and advanced onboard comfort, offering customers an enhanced and more enjoyable long-haul experience.

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New airline for Australia?

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Zinc, the new Australian ultra‑low‑cost carrier concept backed by former Qantas executive Peter Kelly, is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious airline launches in Australia in years. Kelly and his partners are positioning Zinc as a Ryanair‑style disruptor — a carrier built around extreme cost discipline, very high aircraft utilisation, and a stripped‑back product designed to offer the cheapest fares in the country.

Zinc’s initial network will focus on Australia’s “Golden Triangle” — Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane — the busiest and most commercially important air corridor in the country. These routes are dominated by Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Rex, all of which operate with higher cost bases and more traditional service models. Zinc’s strategy is to undercut them with aggressively low fares, fast turnarounds, and a no‑frills approach that mirrors Ryanair’s formula in Europe. Once established, the airline plans to expand to Adelaide and the Gold Coast, two markets with strong leisure demand and high price sensitivity.

Peter Kelly’s involvement gives the project credibility. As a former Qantas executive with deep operational experience, he understands both the structural inefficiencies of Australia’s duopoly and the opportunities created by a true ultra‑low‑cost model — something Australia has never had at scale. Zinc’s backers believe that the combination of high domestic fares, strong population growth, and limited competition creates a gap in the market that a Ryanair‑style carrier can exploit.

The airline is still finalizing its fleet plan, but the model points toward a single‑type narrowbody fleet, high‑density seating, and a heavy reliance on ancillary revenue — seat selection, baggage, priority boarding, and other optional add‑ons. Zinc’s pitch is simple: get Australians flying for less, even if that means paying for everything beyond the seat itself.