American Airlines is off to the races in Kentucky with special flights

American Airlines made this announcement:

The countdown to race day is on, and getting trackside in Louisville, Kentucky (SDF), is top of mind for many travelers. To meet those needs, American is moving into the homestretch with nonstop flights connecting SDF to a record 20 destinations this year.

More flights to connect travelers to the action

American has added special flights to 13 destinations between April 30 and May 3, complementing existing service to seven destinations. These additional nonstop flights give travelers faster and more convenient flight options to show off their seersucker suits, spring dresses and fashionable new hats.

American’s hubs, such as Charlotte (CLT), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), Philadelphia (PHL) and Washington, D.C. (DCA), will see a combination of extra flights and larger aircraft operating to SDF on peak travel dates. With an industry-leading domestic network, this means more ways for travelers across the country to pick the perfect itinerary heading to or from SDF.

Compared to a traditional day at SDF, American will more than double the number of flights it operates on peak dates surrounding the marquee race. This means 41 arriving flights on April 30 and 46 departing flights on May 3.

Setting the pace with elevated travel experiences

From Los Angeles (LAX) and Santa Ana (SNA) in California, American will operate special flights to SDF with Airbus A321T aircraft. Featuring 10 Flagship First® and 20 Flagship Business® seats, American is the only airline to offer lie-flat seating options between Southern California and SDF.

All other flights to SDF will operate on dual-class aircraft, giving travelers the opportunity to enhance their travel experience with the choice of a premium cabin. Earlier this year, American equipped its entire active narrowbody fleet — and more than 80% of its dual-class regional fleet — with free Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T, with more enhancements and innovations coming soon. Sit back, research top picks and get ready for a weekend of color, cocktails and celebration.

American’s flights to Louisville, Kentucky (SDF)

CityFlight detailsAircraft type
Austin, Texas (AUS)*One AUS to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to AUS flight on May 3
Airbus A319
Boston (BOS)Two BOS to SDF flights on April 30
Two SDF to BOS flights on May 3
Embraer 175
Charlotte (CLT)Six CLT to SDF flights on April 30 and May 1
Six SDF to CLT flights on May 3
Mix of dual-class narrowbody aircraft
Chicago (ORD)Five ORD to SDF flights on April 30
Five SDF to ORD flights on May 3
Airbus A319 and Embraer 175
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW)Six DFW to SDF flights on April 30
Eight SDF to DFW flights May 3
Mix of dual-class narrowbody aircraft
Houston (IAH)*One IAH to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to IAH flight on May 3
Airbus A319
Jacksonville, Florida (JAX)*One JAX to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to JAX flight on May 3
Embraer 175
Las Vegas (LAS)*One LAS to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to LAS flight on May 3
Boeing 737
Los Angeles (LAX)*One LAX to SDF flight on April 29, 30 and May 1
Three SDF to LAX flights on May 3
Airbus A321T
Miami (MIA)Two MIA to SDF flights on April 30
Two SDF to MIA flights on May 3
Airbus A319 and Boeing 737
New Orleans (MSY)*One MSY to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to MSY flight on May 3
Airbus A319
New York (JFK)*One JFK to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to JFK flight on May 3
Embraer 175
New York (LGA)*Three LGA to SDF flights on April 30 and May 1 and one LGA to SDF flight on April 29
Three SDF to LGA flights on May 3
Boeing 737 and Embraer 175
Philadelphia (PHL)Two PHL to SDF flights on April 30
Three SDF to PHL flights on May 3
Airbus A319 and Embraer 175
Phoenix (PHX)*One PHX to SDF flight on April 30 and May 1
One SDF to PHX flight on May 3
Boeing 737
Pittsburgh (PIT)*One PIT to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to PIT flight on May 3
Embraer 175
Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (RDU)*One RDU to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to RDU flight on May 3
Boeing 737
Santa Ana, California (SNA)*One SNA to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to SNA flight on May 3
Airbus A321T
Washington, D.C. (DCA)Three DCA to SDF flights on April 30
Three SDF to DCA flights on May 3
Airbus A319 and Embraer 175
West Palm Beach, Florida (PBI)*One PBI to SDF flight on April 30
One SDF to PBI flight on May 3
Airbus A319

*Denotes destinations not regularly served by American from SDF

Turkish Airlines Unveils Its 500th Aircraft Featuring a Special Livery of 100,000 Employees

Turkish Airlines made this announcement:

Airbus A350-941 TC-LHH (Turkish Airlines)

Joining the fleet at the end of 2025, the 500th aircraft named ‘TK Family’ was unveiled during a special launch event today by the Turkish flag carrier.

The unveiling of the 500th aircraft, featuring a special livery designed with photographs of Turkish Airlines’ 100,000 employees and retirees, was held with wide and meaningful participation, reflecting the spirit of unity and solidarity. The event at Istanbul Airport was attended by executives from Turkish Airlines and its subsidiaries, former senior executives, employees and retirees, as well as prominent figures from the aviation industry.

The launch also featured children of martyrs who gave their lives for the Turkish nation, representing all 81 provinces of Türkiye, and the cast of Turkish Airlines’ memorable Iğdır* (When You Dream) commercial. This special gathering once again demonstrated that Turkish Airlines’ growth story consists of not only numbers but also shared effort, loyalty, and solidarity.

As part of this unveiling, the “TK Family” aircraft performed a special ceremonial flight, tracing the number 500 in the sky to mark the beginning of the airline’s ‘Second 500’ era. Operated under flight number TK500, the flight carried the children of martyrs and their families, along with Turkish Airlines executives, former senior executives, and employees.

Aircraft representing key milestones in Turkish Airlines’ fleet expansion were also showcased at the event venue, alongside a full-scale replica of the airline’s first aircraft, drawing significant interest. The fleet milestone aircraft were introduced in the following years:

  • 100th Aircraft– August 2006
  • 200th Aircraft– November 2012
  • 300th Aircraft– February 2016
  • 400th Aircraft– March 2023
  • 500th Aircraft– December 2025

While continuing to enhance operational efficiency and passenger comfort through investments in modern aircraft, Turkish Airlines remains committed to strengthening its fleet in line with its sustainable growth strategy. The 500th Aircraft symbolizes not only the airline’s current strength, but also its vision of reaching a fleet of 1,000 aircraft by 2036.

Drawing strength from its heritage as it confidently moves toward the future, Turkish Airlines continues to write new success stories in global aviation, guided by its principle of “growing together, rising together.”

Tintin From Teesside: Cartoon Star Rolls Out Of Teesside Thanks To Airbourne Colours

Airborne Colours issued this statement:

An international cartoon megastar has jetted off from Teesside Airport for the first time with the help of a world-leading aircraft painting company.

The Airbourne Colours team has painted an Airbus A320-200 (OO-SNJ) for Brussels Airlines – with the aircraft unveiled this week featuring Belgian favourite Tintin.

OO-SNJ

Taking 14 days to complete, it’s the sixth “special livery” job Airbourne Colours has completed for Brussels Airlines – and its first from Teesside.

Employees supported through the Airbourne Colours Aircraft Painting Trainee Programme – backed by the Tees Valley Combined Authority – worked on the aircraft.

The new design was developed from a close collaboration between Brussels Airlines and Tintinimaginatio, and sees the aircraft feature Tintin and the Moon on one side, with Snowy and Captain Haddock on the other.

The aircraft’s inaugural commercial flight was scheduled for Friday (February 13) to Milan, which is hosting the ongoing Winter Olympics.

Airbourne Colours Chief Executive Steven Darbyshire said: “We have built a strong and trusted relationship with Brussels Airlines over the years, and we are extremely proud to have delivered another bold and eye-catching special livery for the airline.

Airbourne Colours paints aircraft from a huge range of airlines and operators across the globe.

After establishing its first site at Teesside in 2024, the company expanded its operations at the airport late last year, opening a second 27,000sq ft facility and creating more jobs.

Air Canada discloses order for eight Airbus A350-1000s

Air Canada has disclosed a firm order for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, marking a pivotal upgrade to the airline’s long-haul fleet strategy with an additional commitment to Airbus widebody aircraft. The order was listed as undisclosed in November 2025. 

The A350-1000’s economics and lower operating costs will deliver a significant competitive advantage to Air Canada. With an industry-leading range of up to 9,000nm, the latest generation widebody aircraft will be central to the airline’s global expansion, enabling seamless, non-stop connectivity from Canada to high-growth markets across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. 

Designed for ultra-long-haul comfort, the aircraft features the Airspace cabin, representing the next evolution of Air Canada’s award-winning passenger experience. Travelers will benefit from the lowest altitude and noise levels of any aircraft cabin to support passenger wellbeing on the longest flights.

The A350 includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. Its latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25 per cent reduced fuel burn and emissions advantage, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030. At the end of January 2026, the A350 Family had won over 1,500 orders from 67 customers worldwide.

More airline news:

EgyptAir takes delivery of its first of 16 Airbus A350-900 aircraft

EgyptAir has taken delivery of its first of 16 Airbus A350‑900 on order, becoming the launch operator for the type in North Africa. The A350 will support the airline’s long‑haul fleet modernisation and network expansion with  new non‑stop routes to key destinations including the US West Coast and North Asia, from its Cairo hub. EGYPTAIR currently operates an Airbus fleet of eight A320neos, seven A321neos and 11 A330 Family aircraft, including five A330-200P2F.

The aircraft features a two-class configuration, comprising 30 Business Class suites with direct aisle access and 310 Economy Class seats. The unique, latest-generation Airspace cabin is designed to improve the long-haul experience for both passengers and crew through enhanced ergonomics and greater comfort.

More airline news:

Contour Airlines Announces New Nonstop Service From Carlsbad, NM to Albuquerque, NM and Denver, CO

SMYRNA, Tenn., Feb. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Contour Airlines is excited to announce new air service at Cavern City Airport (CNM), providing travelers with convenient nonstop flights to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and Denver International Airport (DEN). Service is scheduled to begin on March 1, 2026, expanding travel options for the Carlsbad region and strengthening connectivity to major domestic and international destinations.

Contour Airlines will operate the new routes using its 30-seat regional jet, offering passengers a comfortable and reliable travel experience. Each flight features extra legroom, complimentary snacks and beverages, and one free checked bag with every fare.

Through Contour’s interline agreements, travelers flying from Carlsbad will have access to seamless connections at both Albuquerque and Denver. These partnerships allow passengers to book a single itinerary and connect easily to hundreds of destinations worldwide.

“We’re thrilled to bring Contour’s service to Carlsbad and Cavern City Airport,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “This new service reflects our commitment to connecting underserved communities with reliable, comfortable air travel. With nonstop flights to Albuquerque and Denver, and access to major airline partners, Carlsbad travelers will have more convenient connections than ever before.”

The new flights will support both business and leisure travel while improving regional access to key hub airports.

Flight Schedule:

RouteDeparture TimeArrival TimeFrequency
CNM –  ABQ8:30 AM9:45 AMDaily
ABQ –  CNM11:45 AM1:00 PMDaily
CNM –  DEN2:10 PM3:55 PMMondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays,
Fridays, & Sundays
DEN –  CNM4:50 PM6:40 PMMondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays,
Fridays, & Sundays

“The City of Carlsbad is very excited to welcome jet service to our community” said Carlsbad Mayor Rick Lopez. “This is something that has been long overdue, and our community deserves access to a larger airline that meets the needs of our growing population and local industries. We appreciate Contour Airlines for investing in Carlsbad and recognizing the potential of our region.”

JetBlue Reveals Community-Chosen Livery Celebrating the Dominican Republic

JetBlue Airways, the largest airline serving the Dominican Republic, on February 4, 2026 proudly announces that a vibrant design by artist Willy Gómez has been selected for its first-ever special aircraft livery honoring the Dominican Republic. Chosen by public vote, the design celebrates the country’s rich cultural identity while underscoring JetBlue’s long-standing commitment to the Dominican community.

The livery is part of RD Orgullo que Eleva (DR Pride That Lifts), a campaign developed in collaboration with Dominican artists to elevate local talent and showcase the cultural pride, creativity, and spirit of the Dominican Republic.

Launched in January, the RD Orgullo que Eleva campaign invited customers and fans to vote for their favorite design among three original concepts created by Dominican artists including Gómez, Los Plebeyos, and Lena Tolkens. Each design offered a distinct interpretation of Dominican culture, drawing inspiration from folklore, music, everyday life, nature, family, and national symbolism through each artist’s unique creative lens. JetBlue is grateful to the three artists for their creativity and passion, which brought powerful and authentic perspectives to this celebration.

Following an enthusiastic public response, the selected design will take flight later this spring on a JetBlue Airbus A320. More than a visual transformation, the livery serves as a flying tribute to the Dominican Republic and the millions of customers who share a deep connection to the country. It also reflects JetBlue’s continued investment and commitment to bringing together family and friends, supporting tourism and the local economy, and promoting the Dominican Republic as a dynamic, must-visit destination.

With more than 20 years of experience as an art director, illustrator, and muralist, Gómez draws on Neo-traditional and Art Nouveau influences to celebrate Dominican culture. His design captures the country’s rhythm and warmth through expressive linework, tropical motifs, and bold color contrasts inspired by music, dance, and coastal life. The aircraft will serve as a powerful symbol of Dominican pride and presence carrying that spirit across JetBlue’s network.

AirBorneo Chooses ATR to Modernise Rural Air Service Fleet in East Malaysia

AirBorneo and ATR today announced a strategic partnership to modernise Malaysia’s Rural Air Services (RAS) fleet, with AirBorneo confirming a firm order for eight ATR aircraft. The agreement comprises five ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s, with purchase rights for four additional aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2029. 

This marks a significant milestone in AirBorneo’s transformation into Sarawak’s state-owned airline and its assumption of responsibility for the RAS network, a vital public service that connects remote and underserved communities across Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan. 

Finalised in late 2025, the order supports AirBorneo’s long-term fleet renewal strategy following the acquisition of MASwings by the Sarawak government in 2025 and its subsequent rebranding as AirBorneo. The airline currently operates eight ATR 72-500 aircraft inherited from MASwings. The new-generation ATR –600 series will form the backbone of a more efficient and more resilient RAS operation for East Malaysia. 

The introduction of the ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 aircraft will enable AirBorneo to enhance passenger experience, operational reliability and service capability. The aircraft feature advanced avionics, modern navigation technologies and improved cabin comfort. They are also equipped to support medical stretcher operations and are optimised for reliable operations across diverse regional and rural route environments in Borneo. 

More airline news:

Boeing and Air Cambodia Announce Airline’s Largest Single-Aisle Order for up to 20 737 MAX Jets

  Southeast Asian carrier places its first order with Boeing, boosting regional growth with the fuel-efficient 737-8
–  The 737 MAX will be the first Boeing airplanes operated by a Cambodian airline

SINGAPORE, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Air Cambodia today announced the airline’s largest single-aisle order for up to 20 737 MAX airplanes in an agreement unveiled at the Singapore Airshow. This marks the Southeast Asian carrier’s first purchase of fuel-efficient Boeing airplanes.

The airline finalized its firm order for 10 737-8 jets and opportunity for 10 more in December 2025. The order was previously unidentified on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website.

New Boeing customer, Air Cambodia, orders up to 20 737 MAX jets that will fly in the airline’s new livery.
New Boeing customer, Air Cambodia, orders up to 20 737 MAX jets that will fly in the airline’s new livery.

With the 737 MAX, Air Cambodia will renew and grow its fleet as air travel serves an increasing role in connecting people and places throughout the region. The airline will leverage the 737-8’s capabilities, efficiency and passenger comfort features for its expanding network of high-demand routes across Asia.

“The 737-8 gives Air Cambodia the ideal combination of range, capacity and fuel efficiency to support our next phase of growth,” said Dr. David Zhan, CEO of Air Cambodia. “This investment – Air Cambodia’s largest narrowbody purchase – will let us launch direct services to important markets across North and Southeast Asia, and offer competitively priced travel for passengers, while creating local jobs and training opportunities that strengthen our communities.”

The 737-8, which can fly up to 178 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km), is well-suited to support the airline’s growing regional network. Air Cambodia will benefit from the airplane’s flexible capacity and lower operating costs due to a 20% reduction in fuel use and emissions compared to the airplanes it replaces. 

“We are proud to welcome Air Cambodia as our newest 737 MAX customer and look forward to partnering with them to introduce the versatile and reliable 737-8 to the Kingdom of Cambodia,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “We are committed to supporting the growth of aviation in Cambodia and throughout the region as Air Cambodia strengthens ties across Asia with these fuel-efficient airplanes.”

Air Cambodia currently operates a fleet of six single-aisle and regional jets on domestic and international routes to Vietnam, India, Thailand, China, Japan and Hong Kong.

Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook forecasts Southeast Asian carriers will need nearly 5,000 new airplanes over the next twenty years, with single-aisle jets comprising more than 80% of deliveries.

Ontario International Airport congratulates China Airlines on welcoming its 1 millionth passenger through ONT

Milestone underscores airline’s pivotal role in ONT’s emergence as Southern California’s international gateway

ONTARIO, Calif. , Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ontario International Airport (ONT) congratulated China Airlines, a Taiwan-based carrier, on achieving an extraordinary milestone: the airline’s 1 millionth passenger to travel through ONT since launching service between Ontario and Taipei, Taiwan, in 2018.

PHOTO CAPTION: From left, China Airlines flight attendant; James Kessler, ONT Senior Vice President of Operations and Maintenance; Jack (Chih-Chao) Chih, China Airlines' Vice President of Americas; Mr. Cheng; and Eren Cello, ONT Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing.
PHOTO CAPTION: From left, China Airlines flight attendant; James Kessler, ONT Senior Vice President of Operations and Maintenance; Jack (Chih-Chao) Chih, China Airlines’ Vice President of Americas; Mr. Cheng; and Eren Cello, ONT Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing.

The 1 millionth passenger, Mr. Cheng, was welcomed during a brief ceremony on Monday evening, February 2, marking another significant chapter in the long-standing partnership between ONT and China Airlines and highlighting the continued growth of international travel at the Inland Empire’s airport.

Since becoming the airport’s first carrier to offer nonstop, transoceanic passenger service, China Airlines has played a foundational role in positioning Ontario International as a global gateway for Southern California, providing travelers with convenient access to Taiwan and onward connections throughout Asia. In 2025, nearly China Airlines served nearly 195,000 passengers through ONT.

“China Airlines’ success at Ontario International Airport is a testament to the strength of this market and to the vision both organizations shared when service was launched in 2018,” said Alan D. Wapner, President of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners. “Welcoming the 1 millionth China Airlines passenger is not only a celebration of this airline’s achievement, but also a powerful affirmation of ONT’s growing role as an international gateway. It reflects our shared commitment to delivering world-class service, expanding global connectivity, and providing Southern California travelers with a more convenient and accessible option for international travel.”

“Ontario International Airport is an ideal gateway for passengers traveling between Asia and major cities throughout the country. Through our cooperation with Southwest Airlines, travelers can easily connect to and from the Inland Empire to many more destinations across Asia and the United States. Looking ahead, China Airlines remains committed to enhancing our services, expanding our network, and delivering a safe, comfortable, and high-quality travel experience. We will continue working closely with our partners to bring more value and more choices to our passengers.” said China Airlines’ Vice President of Americas Jack (Chih-Chao) Chih.

Over the past several years, ONT has experienced record growth in international travel, driven by expanded service to Asia and Latin America and reinforced by major investments in facilities, passenger amenities, and federal inspection infrastructure. International passenger volumes increased sharply in 2025, further solidifying Ontario’s position as one of the fastest-growing international airports in California.

Wapner said that the milestone also reflects the airport’s broader transformation since its return to local control. “A region as large and dynamic as Greater Los Angeles deserves more than one global gateway. China Airlines helped make that vision real at Ontario, and this achievement demonstrates how far we’ve come together.”

As ONT continues to expand its international footprint, partnerships such as the one with China Airlines remain central to its mission of delivering convenient, efficient, and globally connected air service for Southern California.