4th A220-371, operated by Smartwings. Czech Airlinesโ Airbus A220-300 fleet is part of a strategic revival led by Smartwings, which owns and operates the aircraft under the Czech Airlines brand following CSAโs restructuring and operational merger in late 2024. Smartwings ordered four Airbus A220-300s on long-term lease to modernize the Czech Airlines fleet, replacing aging A319s and A320s. The first aircraft, registered as OK-EYA, was delivered on November 21, 2024, arriving in Prague from Mirabel, Canada. It was introduced on the PragueโParis route on November 25, 2024, and features a livery honoring Czech Airlinesโ legacy, which officially ceased as a separate entity in October 2024. Although the A220s are operated by Smartwings, they retain Czech Airlines branding and are supported by a joint agreement with Airbus Flight Hour Services (FHS) for component support and maintenance. This ensures high reliability and performance, with dedicated stock and access to Airbusโ global pool of parts. Smartwingsโ involvement is both operational and strategic: it absorbed Czech Airlines during its financial restructuring and now uses the A220s to reinforce its regional and sustainability goals. The aircraft are configured in a 149-seat all-economy layout, powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines, offering 25% lower fuel burn and emissions compared to previous-generation narrow body airliners.
Garuda Indonesia Airways Airbus A330-343 PK-GPY (msn 1671) (Pikachu Jet GA-2) DPS (Pascal Simon). Image: 966075.
Garuda Indonesiaโs Airbus A330-343, registered PK-GPY, is flying in this vibrant Pokรฉmon-themed special livery known as Pikachu Jet GA-2. This eye-catching design was officially unveiled on April 1, 2025, as part of a collaboration between Garuda Indonesia and The Pokรฉmon Company. The livery features Pikachu and other iconic Pokรฉmon characters blended with traditional Indonesian batik motifs, symbolizing a fusion of global pop culture and national heritage. The aircraft made its inaugural flight in this livery on April 2, 2025, operating flight GA402 from Jakarta to Denpasar where it pictured. This is the second Pokรฉmon-themed aircraft in Garudaโs fleet, following the earlier Pikachu Jet GA-1 on a Boeing 737-800. The initiative is part of a broader campaign to promote Indonesian tourism and offer passengers a more engaging and culturally rich flying experience. Inside the cabin, the theme continues with Pokรฉmon-branded inflight materials, including headrest covers, paper cups, cutlery, and even lavatory and overhead bin stickers.
Commercial Aviation reported an 8-year backlog record ofย US$13.1 billionย and the division book-to-billย reached 1.8x over the past 12 months,
The E175 celebrated an important milestone โ 1,000 units sold since its 2005 launch;
Executive Aviation delivered 38 aircraft during the quarter, up 41% year-over-year;
The backlog for Defense & Security reachedย US$4.3 billion, 2x higher than last year;
Services & Support registered a new backlog record, upย 55% year-over-year.
SรO PAULO, July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Embraer (NYSE: ERJ / B3: EMBR3), a global leader in the aerospace industry, registered a US$29.7 billion backlog in the second quarter of 2025 (2Q25) โ the highest level ever recorded by the company.
Backlog by Segment – US$bn
2Q25
1Q25
qoq
2Q24
yoy
Commercial Aviation
13.1
10.0
31 %
11.3
16 %
Executive Aviation
7.4
7.6
-2 %
4.6
62 %
Services & Support
4.9
4.6
5 %
3.1
55 %
Defense & Security
4.3
4.2
3 %
2.1
100 %
Total
29.7
26.4
13 %
21.1
40 %
Embraer delivered 61 aircraft in 2Q25 across all its business units. The result reflects a 30% increase compared to the second quarter of last year (2Q24), when 47 jets were delivered, and more than twice the number of aircraft (30) recorded in the first quarter of 2025 (1Q25).
Deliveries by Segment
2Q25
1Q25
2Q24
1H25
1H24
1Q24
2025 Guidance
Executive Aviation
38
23
27
61
45
18
145-155
Phenom 100
4
2
2
6
3
1
Phenom 300
17
12
18
29
28
10
Light Jets
21
14
20
35
31
11
Praetor 500
8
3
3
11
6
3
Praetor 600
9
6
4
15
8
4
Midsize Jets
17
9
7
26
14
7
Commercial Aviation
19
7
19
26
26
77-85
E175
9
4
8
13
11
4
E190-E2
1
–
4
1
4
–
E195-E2
9
3
7
12
11
4
Total Commercial Av. & Executive Av.
57
30
46
87
71
18
222-240*
Defense & Security
4
–
1
4
1
–
KC-390 Millennium
–
–
1
–
1
–
A-29 Super Tucano
4
–
–
4
–
–
*Excludes KC-390 Millennium and A-29 Super Tucano deliveries
Commercial Aviation reported an 8-year backlog record of US$13.1 billion in 2Q25. (The previous record for the division was US$13.4 billion in 4Q17.) The backlog increased 31% compared to 1Q25 and 16% versus 2Q24. Alongside its strong sales performance, the business unit celebrated an important milestone โ 1,000 E175 units sold since its 2005 launch.
During the quarter, Embraer received a firm order from SkyWest for 60 E175 aircraft with purchase rights for 50 additional units. Meanwhile, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) entered into an agreement to acquire 45 E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for 10 additional units โ the largest SAS jet order direct from a manufacturer over the past 30 years. The division book-to-bill ratio reached 1.8x over the past 12 months.
In 2Q25, the business unit delivered 19 new aircraft, exactly in line with the number of aircraft delivered in 2Q24. Consequently, in the 1H25, deliveries totaled 26 aircraft and 32% of the midpoint of the full year guidance (between 77 and 85 in 2025), 3 percentage points short of the average 35% level for the period recorded over the past 5 years.
The models delivered during the period were the E175 to Republic Airlines (5), SkyWest (2) and Horizon Air (2), the E190-E2 to Azorra (1), and the E195-E2 to Aercap (3), Azorra (2), Mexicana (1), Royal Jordania (1), Binter (1) and ICBC (1). Looking forward, we expect our production leveling efforts to produce more tangible results in the 2H of the year, and from the start of 2026.
Commercial Aviation
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2025
9 %
23 %
5Y average
12 %
23 %
20 %
45 %
2Q25 Backlog – Commercial Aviation
Aircraft Type
Firm Orders
Deliveries
Firm Order Backlog
E175
1,000
792
208
E195-E2
330
140
190
E190-E2
67
28
39
Total
1,397
960
437
Customer (Country)
Firm Orders
Deliveries
Firm Order Backlog
EMBRAER 175
1,000
792
208
American Airlines (USA)
204
114
90
SkyWest (USA)
288
214
74
Republic Airlines (USA)
187
152
35
Horizon Air / Alaska (USA)
50
47
3
Undisclosed
4
1
3
Air Peace (Nigeria)
2
–
2
Overland Airways (Nigeria)
3
2
1
Air Canada (Canada)
15
15
–
Air Lease (USA)
8
8
–
Alitalia (Italy)
2
2
–
Belavia (Belarus)
1
1
–
CIT (USA)
4
4
–
ECC Leasing (Ireland)*
1
1
–
Flybe (UK)
11
11
–
Fuji Dream (Japan)
2
2
–
GECAS (USA)
5
5
–
KLM (The Netherlands)
17
17
–
LOT Polish (Poland)
12
12
–
Mauritania Airlines (Mauritania)
2
2
–
Mesa (USA)
7
7
–
NAC / Aldus (Ireland)
2
2
–
NAC / Jetscape (USA)
4
4
–
Northwest (USA)
36
36
–
Oman Air (Oman)
5
5
–
Royal Jordanian (Jordan)
2
2
–
Suzuyo (Japan)
11
11
–
TRIP (Brazil)
5
5
–
United Airlines (USA)
110
110
–
* Aircraft delivered by ECC Leasing: one to Air Caraibes
Customer (Country)
Firm Orders
Deliveries
Firm Order Backlog
Embraer 195-E2
330
140
190
Azul (Brazil)
51
–
51
SAS (Sweden)
45
–
45
Porter (Canada)
75
44
31
Aercap (Ireland)
43
31
12
Azorra (USA)
23
12
11
Air Peace (Nigeria)
16
5
11
Mexicana (Mexico)
10
1
9
Aircastle (USA)
23
16
7
Salam Air (Oman)
6
–
6
Luxair (Luxembourg)
6
–
6
Royal Jordanian (Jordan)
2
1
1
Binter Canarias (Spain)
16
16
–
ICBC (China)
10
10
–
Helvetic (Switzerland)
4
4
–
–
–
–
Customer (Country)
Firm Orders
Deliveries
Firm Order Backlog
Embraer 190-E2
67
28
39
ANA (Japan)
15
–
15
Mexicana (Mexico)
10
–
10
Azorra (USA)
16
9
7
Virgin Australia (Australia)
4
–
4
Aircastle (USA)
2
–
2
Air Kiribati (Kiribati)
2
1
1
Aercap (Ireland)
5
5
–
Helvetic (Switzerland)
8
8
–
Wideroe (Norway)
3
3
–
Placar Linhas Aรฉreas (Brazil)
1
1
–
Undisclosed
1
1
–
Executive Aviation posted a backlog of US$7.4 billion in 2Q25, up 62% year-over-year (yoy) but down a slight 2% quarter-over-quarter (qoq). Deliveries reached 38 jets during the period, 41% higher than the 27 jets in 2Q24. Consequently, in the 1H25, deliveries totaled 61 aircraft and 41% of the midpoint of the full year guidance (between 145 and 155 in 2025), 8 percentage points higher than the average 32% level for the period recorded over the past 5 years.
Executive Aviation
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2025
15 %
25 %
5Y average
11 %
21 %
25 %
43 %
In Defense & Security, the backlog ended at US$4.3 billion in 2Q25, 3% higher sequentially and 2x higher than a year ago. The business unit delivered four A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to the Paraguayan Air Force during the period.
The division highlights include Lithuania’s announcement the C-390 Millennium has been selected to enhance the country’s military readiness, and Portugal’s decision to acquire a sixth KC-390 Millennium aircraft. Furthermore, Embraer and the Portuguese Air Force intend to include ten purchase options in their current contract for potential future acquisitions by European nations or NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) members.
The C-390 Millenium selection by Sweden (4) and Slovakia (3), the additional order from Portugal (1), and the A-29 Super Tucano for Panama (4) are not included in the backlog, since the contracts are not yet effective.
2Q25 Backlog – Defense & Security
Aircraft Type
Firm Orders
Deliveries
Firm Order Backlog
KC-390 Millennium
42
10
32
A-29 Super Tucano*
34
4
30
*Includes only A-29 Super Tucano ordered since 2024. Meanwhile, a total of 264 aircraft has been delivered until 2023.
Customer (Country)
Firm Orders
Deliveries
Firm Order Backlog
KC-390 Millennium
42
10
32
Brazilian Air Force (Brazil)
19
7
12
Royal Netherlands Air Force (Netherlands)
5
–
5
Austrian Air Force (Austria)
4
–
4
Portuguese Air Force ( Portugal)
5
2
3
Republic of Korea Air Force (South Korea)
3
–
3
Czech Air Force (Czech Republic)
2
–
2
Undisclosed
2
–
2
Hungarian Air Force (Hungary)
2
1
1
–
–
Customer (Country)
Firm Orders
Deliveries
Firm Order Backlog
A-29 Super Tucano*
34
4
30
Portuguese Air Force ( Portugal)
12
–
12
Uruguayan Air Force
6
–
6
Undisclosed
6
–
6
Undisclosed (Africa)
4
–
4
Paraguayan Air Force (Paraguay)
6
4
2
*Includes only A-29 Super Tucano ordered since 2024. Meanwhile, a total of 264 aircraft has been delivered until 2023.
Services & Support increased its backlog to US$4.9 billion โ up a significant 55% yoy along with a welcome 5% qoq because of several contracts celebrated during 2Q25.
In the Commercial Aviation sub-segment, the business unit signed a new maintenance contract with CommuteAir for its new facilities at the Perot Field Alliance Airport in Fort Worth, Texas. The division will deploy a new full-flight simulator in Madrid for E2 customers in partnership with CAE. And finally, the partnership with Regional One was extended with the addition of two passenger-to-freight (P2F) conversions, doubling its existing orders to four units โ Bridges Air Cargo will be the launch customer of the new product. Meanwhile, Virgin Australia, Amelia, Air Montenegro, and Hunnu Air signed new Pool program contracts.
On the connectivity topic, the business unit will offer the Gogo Galileo HDX solution for Phenom 300 aftermarket customers through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) generated in partnership with Gogo, while Viasat will install advanced in-flight internet connectivity on Aeromexico’s E190 jets, further integrating the airline’s fleet with fast Wi-Fi for its customers.
About Embraer A global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil, Embraer has businesses in Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense and Security, and Agricultural Aviation. The company designs, develops, manufactures, and markets aircraft and systems, providing Services and Support to customers after-sales.
Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft. On average, about every 10 seconds an aircraft manufactured by Embraer takes off somewhere in the world, transporting over 150 million passengers a year.
Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets with up to 150 seats and the main exporter of high value-added goods in Brazil. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service, and parts distribution centers, among other activities, across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Spirit to launch the only nonstop service between Key West (EYW) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) with easy one-stop connections across the U.S. this November
DANIA BEACH, Fla., July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Florida travelers will soon be able to get between Las Olas Boulevard and Duval Street at jet speed. Florida-based Spirit Airlines (NYSE American: FLYY) today announced it will launch new service at Key West International Airport (EYW), providing the only nonstop flight between Key West (EYW) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) starting Nov. 6, 2025. The new service will operate four times per week on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday and will increase to daily flights starting Dec. 18, 2025. Guests can also enjoy easy one-stop connections through Spirit’s largest airport, Fort Lauderdale (FLL).
“Key West is a one-of-a-kind beach destination, and now travelers can easily access this island paradise and enjoy Spirit’s elevated Guest experience along the way,” said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines. “Our new service offers a convenient and affordable alternative to driving and gives our Guests in the Florida Keys a new way to coast through South Florida in style.”
Key West is Spirit’s eighth destination in the Sunshine State, joining Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Fort Myers (RSW), Miami (MIA), Orlando (MCO), Pensacola (PNS), Tampa (TPA) and West Palm Beach (PBI). The Florida Keys offer visitors a laid-back getaway with a rich history, lively nightlife and dining, and world-class excursions like diving, snorkeling and boating. Travelers across Spirit’s network can easily connect to Key West from major cities like Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, New York City, Philadelphia, and more.
Spirit Airlines Key West (EYW) Service:
Destination:
Flights Available:
Launch Date:
Introductory Fare:
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
4x WeeklyDaily
Nov. 6, 2025Dec. 18, 2025
Starting at $79* one way
“Spirit Airlines entering the Key West market this November is fantastic news for our passengers near and far. We welcome this addition to our selection of carriers and greatly anticipate access to Spirit’s expansive network of destinations,” said Richard Strickland, Executive Director of Airports at Key West International Airport.
Introductory Fare Guests traveling between Key West (EYW) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) can take advantage of special introductory fares starting at $79* one way. The introductory fares are available for booking now on spirit.com where travelers can browse flight details.
Spirit’s Elevated Guest Experience Key West Guests can enjoy Spirit’s three travel options, which offer a seamless and enhanced travel experience at a great value:
Spirit Firstย provides enhanced comfort with a Big Front Seatยฎ, a carry-on and first checked bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Check-In and Boarding, reserved overhead bin space, complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, and streaming access to fast Wi-Fi.
Premium Economyย allows Guests to stretch out with more space in a Premium Seat with extra legroom or a blocked middle seat and includes one carry-on bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Boarding and reserved overhead bin space.
Valueย maximizes affordability and flexibility with the option for travelers to select only the extras they need. Seat selection, one carry-on bag, checked bags and other options can be purchased separately.
Recognition Spirit was recently named Best Airline Overall for 2025 and earned top recognition for safety and affordability for the second consecutive year by WalletHub. Spirit was also recognized by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) as a 2025 Four Star Low Cost Carrier. Additionally, the airline’s Fit Fleetยฎ was ranked one of the world’s youngest for 2025 by ch-aviation. Spirit also received the FAA’s Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence for the seventh consecutive year.
*One-way fares subject to a 21-day advance purchase, valid for booking on July 22 through Nov. 19, 2025, and travel from Nov. 6 through Dec. 17, 2025. Blackout dates: Nov. 20 โ Dec. 2, 2025. Subject to availability.
About Spirit Airlines Spirit Airlines (NYSE American: FLYY) is committed to safely delivering the best value in the sky by offering an enhanced travel experience with flexible, affordable options. Spirit serves destinations throughout the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean with its all-Airbus Fit Fleetยฎ, one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the U.S. Discover elevated travel options with exceptional value at spirit.com.
New Service Includes Debut in Corpus Christi, Texas, and Richmond, Va.as Well as Return to Tulsa, Okla.
To Celebrate, Americaโs Greenest Airline Is Offering Fares as Low as $29*
DENVER โ July 22, 2025 โ Ultra-low fare carrier Frontier Airlines (Nasdaq: ULCC) will make its debut in Corpus Christi, Texas, and Richmond, Va., as well as mark a return to Tulsa, Okla., this fall with the launch of 15 new routes. The expansion in service is just the latest growth for the airline as it delivers on its mission to offer affordable travel to more consumers in more places, while simultaneously improving the flying experience customers can expect with The New Frontier.
โWith new destinations and routes from coast to coast launching this October, consumers will have even more affordable flight options to choose from as they plan their travel through 2025 and into the new year,โ said Josh Flyr, vice president of network and operations design, Frontier Airlines. โWith new destinations in Texas and Virginia, our return to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and new routes between several of our top cities, now is a better time than ever for consumers to give Frontier a try and experience the comfort, convenience and savings we are known for.โ
To celebrate its growth in service, Americaโs Greenest Airline is offering fares as low as $29*.
New service from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Omaha, Neb. (OMA)
October 10, 2025
2x/week
$49*
Richmond, Va. (RIC)
October 17, 2025
2x/week
$29*
New service from Charleston International Airport (CHS):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
October 9, 2025
2x/week
$59*
New service from Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Denver (DEN)
October 9, 2025
2x/week
$59*
New service from Denver International Airport (DEN):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
New York (JFK)
October 8, 2025
3x/week
$59*
Corpus Christi, Texas (CRP)
October 9, 2025
2x/week
$59*
Tulsa, Okla. (TUL)
October 12, 2025
2x/week
$39*
Richmond, Va. (RIC)
October 19, 2025
2x/week
$59*
New service from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
El Paso, Texas (ELP)
October 8, 2025
3x/week
$39*
Charleston, S.C. (CHS)
October 9, 2025
2x/week
$59*
Tucson, Ariz. (TUS)
October 9, 2025
2x/week
$49*
New service from El Paso International Airport (ELP):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
October 8, 2025
3x/week
$39*
New service from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Chicago Midway (MDW)
October 7, 2025
4x/week
$39*
New service from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Denver (DEN)
October 8, 2025
3x/week
$59*
Chicago OโHare (ORD)
October 8, 2025
4x/week
$39*
New service from Kansas City International Airport (MCI):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Tampa, Fla. (TPA)
October 11, 2025
Weekly
$49*
New service from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Newark, N.J. (EWR)
October 7, 2025
3x/week
$39*
New service from Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Atlanta (ATL)
October 10, 2025
2x/week
$49*
New service from Chicago OโHare International Airport (ORD):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
New York (JFK)
October 8, 2025
4x/week
$39*
New service from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
San Antonio (SAT)
October 10, 2025
3x/week
$49*
New service from Richmond International Airport (RIC):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Atlanta (ATL)
October 17, 2025
2x/week
$29*
Denver (DEN)
October 19, 2025
2x/week
$59*
New service from San Antonio International Airport (SAT):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Phoenix (PHX)
October 10, 2025
3x/week
$49*
New service from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Santa Ana, Calif. (SNA)
October 9, 2025
2x/week
$39*
New service from John Wanye Airport (SNA):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Salt Lake City (SLC)
October 9, 2025
2x/week
$39*
New service from St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Tampa (TPA)
October 11, 2025
Weekly
$39*
New service from Tampa International Airport (TPA):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Kansas City (MCI)
October 11, 2025
Weekly
$49*
St. Louis (STL)
October 11, 2025
Weekly
$39*
New service from Tulsa International Airport (TUL):
SERVICE TO:
SERVICE START:
SERVICE FREQUENCY:
INTRO FARE:
Denver (DEN)
October 12, 2025
2x/week
$39*
New service from Tucson International Airport (TUS):
Gulf Air Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner A9C-FA (msn 39996) PAE (Brian Worthington). Image: 961791.
MUHARRAQ, Bahrain and NEW YORK, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and the New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport have unveiled a long-term strategic partnership, positioning the airline for future growth following its momentous return to the United States and elevating the customer experience in New York City.
The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernization and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.
Gulf Air is returning to the United States October 1, 2025, launching thrice weekly nonstop service from Bahrain International Airport to JFK Airport’s existing Terminal 1 in anticipation of the debut of New Terminal One. Gulf Air’s new service, operated with Boeing 787-9 aircraft, will be the only nonstop flight connecting Bahrain with the United States and marks a historic return to JFK. Gulf Air will move its operations to New Terminal One in 2026 when the terminal’s first phase opens, marking another milestone in the airline’s transformation.
The airline’s new home at JFK Airport will elevate the travel experience for Gulf Air customers traveling to New York City, aligned with the carrier’s significant investment in fleet modernization and in-flight service. Gulf Air recently received the prestigious APEX Five Star Global Airline Award, in recognition of the carrier’s transformation and its dedication to customer service excellence. Global network connectivity continues to be a key focus of the airline, which added several new destinations to its route map in the past year.
“We congratulate Gulf Air on their resumption of service to the United States, and we are honored to be their long-term partner on this exciting new journey in New York City. Our teams share a dedicated commitment to creating an extraordinary guest experience for all who fly out of the New Terminal One, and we look forward to a long-lasting collaboration with our colleagues at Gulf Air,” said Jennifer Aument, Chief Executive Officer, The New Terminal One at JFK.
“The move to New Terminal One at JFK marks a significant milestone in Gulf Air’s commitment to enhancing our global connectivity and delivering a superior travel experience. This modern facility aligns with our vision to provide our passengers with world-class service, greater comfort, and seamless connections. We are excited to be part of this transformative development at one of the world’s leading international gateways,” stated Jeffrey Goh, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air Group.
Gulf Air is the latest airline that has selected the New Terminal One at its new home at JFK Airport, joining 15 other airlines that have committed to operating out of the state-of-the-art terminal: Air France, KLM, Etihad, LOT Polish Airlines, Korean Air, EVA Air, Air Serbia, SAS, Neos, Philippine Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air New Zealand, Royal Air Maroc, Air China and China Airlines.
About The New Terminal One
The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport is a bold and exciting project to develop a best-in-class international terminal that will serve as an anchor terminal in the Port Authority’s $19 billion transformation of JFK into a global gateway to the New York metropolitan area and the United States. The New Terminal One will set a new standard for design and service, aspiring to obtain a Top 5 Skytrax ranking.
The New Terminal One is being built on sites now occupied by Terminal 1 and the former Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, where it will anchor JFK’s south side. Construction is taking place in phases with full completion in 2030. The first phase, including the new arrivals and departures halls and first set of 14 new gates, is expected to open in 2026. At completion in 2030, the New Terminal One, with a total of 23 gates, will be 2.6 million square feet, making it the largest terminal at JFK and nearly the same size as LaGuardia Airport’s two new terminals combined.
The New Terminal One consortium of labor, operating, and financial partners is led by Ferrovial, JLC Infrastructure, Ullico, and Carlyle. The New Terminal One is being built by union labor and is committed to local inclusion and labor participation, focusing on diversity and capacity-building opportunities, including a commitment to target participation goals of 20% for minority-owned business enterprises, 10% for women-owned business enterprises, and 3% for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, with an emphasis on local businesses.
Fiji Airways (2nd) Airbus A330-343 DQ-FJW (msn 1692) NAN (Rob Finlayson). Image: 934633
Airline raises the bar on inflight experience with premium locally inspired dishes and a refreshed economy cabin service
NADI, Fiji, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fiji Airways is introducing a series of new onboard experiences beginning with a vibrant Pacific Rim inspired menu, now available on select flights. This signals a bold step forward in its commitment to exceptional Fijian hospitality, service and world class excellence.
Leading this transformation is the new Dine on Demand concept in Business Class, launching on select long-haul flights โ a first for the airline. This tailored experience gives guests the freedom to choose what they want to eat, when they want to eat it, adding a new level of personalisation and comfort to their journey.
“Fijian hospitality is at the heart of what we do” said Andre Viljoen, CEO and Managing Director, Fiji Airways. “This next chapter elevates that promise. With the initial introduction of our new Pacific Rim menu and on-demand dining, we’re delivering a fine-dining restaurant-quality experience in the sky โ One that is authentically Fijian, thoughtfully crafted, and aligned with the evolving needs of today’s traveller.
A Menu That Celebrates Culture and Connection The newly introduced menu reflects Fiji’s unique position at the crossroads of Asia, Oceania and North America. It blends fresh, bold flavours from Southeast Asia, contemporary Australia, and the Pacific Islands, showcasing local Fijian ingredients with an emphasis on sustainable sourcing.
Signature dishes in Business Class include:
Grilledย Mahi Mahi with Prawn Chilli Oil: a coastal celebration with corn coriander cake and lime marmalade
Hamachi Crudo with Octopus and Ponzu: a refreshing starter with Fijian sea grapes (nama) and herbs
Fijian Chicken Curry: a coconut-simmered comfort dish reflecting Indo-Fijian heritage
Roasted Cauliflower with Pacific Greens and Garlic Cream โ a standout plant-based hero
Salted Chocolate Crรจme with Pistachio andย Caramelised Banana: an indulgent dessert with tropical flair
Kumquat Cheesecake that packs a punch
Dishes are freshly finished and plated onboard to ensure restaurant-quality presentation, with cabin crew specifically trained in culinary service and wine training to deliver a personalised and seamless experience.
Fresh Beverages and Thoughtful Additions
The new Business Class menu is accompanied by an expanded program that includes:
Cold-pressed juices made inย Fijiย using local tropical fruits and vegetables
A curated wine list highlighting premium varieties fromย New Zealand,ย Australia, andย California
A signature series of cocktails andย mocktails inspired by the spirit of the islands, featuring locally distilled Blue Turtle Gin Fiji and Fijian Bati Rum.
Artisanal Fijian chocolate, locally made and paired with tea and coffee
Business Class tables are adorned with a handcraftedย Vau flower, thoughtfully made inย Fiji, and set with bone china dinnerware and crisp white cotton tablecloths
Elevated Economy Experience Economy Class has also been refreshed, with updated meal options, a new mocktail and cocktail offering, hot chocolate and new snack and beverage choices available throughout the journey. Special dietary requirements can be pre-arranged, ensuring inclusivity across all cabins.
Fiji Airways’ move to enhance its inflight service is part of a broader set of ‘game-changing’ strategies introduced to place Fiji’s national carrier shoulder to shoulder with the best airlines in the world.
“We fly for Fiji,” explains Viljoen. “As the national carrier, we recognise the profound role we play in connecting Fiji to the world, and sharing the unique warmth and happiness that only Fiji offers. Through our strategic investments in our food, beverage, service training, and sustainable sourcing of materials, we’re bringing that happiness in every journey.”
The new Pacific Rim inspired cuisine and menu, along with the new service model are being progressively introduced on select long-haul flights and will be fully implemented across the network by July 2026.
JAL-Japan Airlines Boeing 777-246 JA773J (msn 27653) (Tokyo 2020) HND (Michael B. Ing). Image: 940436.
TAIPEI, July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On July 16 American Express (NYSE: AXP) opened a new Centurion Lounge at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND), the busiest airport in Japan and one of the busiest airports in the world. The Centurion Lounge at HND marks the 30th to open worldwide and the 4th to open in Asia, joining lounges at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, Hong Kong international Airport (HKG) in Hong Kong, and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai. The new lounge in Tokyo features locally sourced decor and artwork that celebrates Japanese philosophy, craftsmanship, and artistry, a live, open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs cook, a buffet offering a variety of Japanese and Western food and beverages, a dedicated sweets bar nodding to Japan’s snack culture, and private phone rooms that are also equipped with a curated audio program for meditation. Located in Haneda’s Terminal 3 near Gate 114, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the airfield while they rest and refuel before their flights.
Main seating area of the Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport. Photo courtesy of American Express.
Bar area of the Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport. Photo courtesy of American Express.
Entrance to the Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport. Photo courtesy of American Express.
“The Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport celebrates Japanese culture, featuring custom artwork, an exciting menu that showcases the flavors of Tokyo, and my personal favorite โ private meditation booths to help you recharge and find some calm before your flight,” said Audrey Hendley, President, American Express Travel. “We’ve seen incredible demand for travel to Japan, it is one of the destinations where we’ve seen the highest growth recently. We look forward to showcasing the impeccable service Centurion Lounges are known for in a destination we know is so important to our Card Members.”
“Long awaited by our eligible Card Members, we are thrilled to open Japan’s first Centurion Lounge at Haneda Airport,” said Yasuhiro Sudo, Senior Vice President, Japan Country Manager at American Express. “We look forward to providing a best-in-class experience with high-quality meals, a wonderful atmosphere, and local charm to eligible Japanese Card Members and eligible Card Members from all over the world. We are committed to delivering the exceptional customer experience American Express proudly offers and is known for.”
Select Dishes by Chef Satoshi Ogino, Plus Specialty Drinks and Sweets Bar
Acclaimed Chef Satoshi Ogino is known for his mastery of classic Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on seasonality and has helmed the kitchens of several Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo, including his own Akasaka Ogino. In addition to a special lounge menu by Chef Ogino showcasing local flavors in his signature style, the kitchen will also offer Japanese favorites including sushi and ramen, and a buffet will serve both local and global cuisine. A full bar will offer a premium menu of wine, locally inspired cocktails, and a selection of Japanese beers, sake, and shochu[1], while a dedicated sweets bar will feature a selection of teas and traditional Japanese Wagashi sweets, plus a rotating menu of additional treats.
Art and Design Inspired by Local Craftsmanship and “Japan Blue”
Designed by OnBrand, American Express’ in-house creative agency, the lounge is inspired by the philosophy, craftmanship, and artistry of Japanese culture and “Japan Blue”. Produced by the Japanese dyeing technique of Aizome, “Japan Blue” is a deep indigo hue that represents tranquility and stability and is ubiquitous in Japanese art, architecture and fashion. The color is woven throughout the lounge and complemented by natural materials and textures, including slatted wood, stone, and subtle walnut and black ash accents. The bar features elegant Uroko ceramic tiles and a dramatic ceiling canopy, while an Edo-Kiriko-inspired custom chandelier hangs in the main seating area and locally inspired textiles and wall coverings can be found throughout the space.
The lounge features commissioned artwork from several local artists, including a custom American Express-inspired mural by Shu Kuroki, and Saki Matsumoto’s textile reimagining of the American Express bulldog, Sir Charles Frosty Blue, as Komainu โ a guardian of Japanese shrines symbolizing trust and protection. The artwork also includes ceramics by Ryuji Iwasaki, ink paintings by Ryohei Sasaki, and a traditional Japanese Wajima Nuri lacquerware installation by Miho Yokoyama. The pieces for the installation were sourced from Ishikawa โ home of the Wajima Nuri lacquerware tradition โ to support recovery efforts following the 2024 earthquake that devastated the Noto Peninsula.
At nearly 7,500 square feet, The Centurion Lounge at HND will feature luxury amenities and several areas for travelers to work, relax and recharge before boarding their flights, including:
Private phone rooms with curated audio programing for meditation:ย Private booths that can be used for phone calls or meditation provide functionality and tranquility with acoustical fabric panels, traditional Japanese artwork, and a curated audio program of calming water, forest, bird, and wind sounds.
Comfortable seating areas for all types of travelers:ย Guests will have a wide range of seating options to choose from including armchairs, high tops and dining banquettes, cozy couches, and a private room with seating to accommodate families and small groups, complete with a television.
Centurion VIP Room:ย Centurion Members have access to a VIP area featuring elevated-yet-comfortable furnishings and finishes, including Kumiko style woodwork, a private beverage station, and a curated display of Japanese artwork and photography that captures scenes from the country’s lively festival culture.
Signature Centurion Lounge amenities for all types of travelers:ย Guests will also find signature Centurion Lounge amenities, including dedicated workstations and phone booths, premium shower suites and restrooms, abundant outlets and USB ports, access to complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and more.
Meeting More Card Members in More Places
With more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer[2], the American Express Global Lounge Collectionโข is just one of the many ways American Express supports Card Members while they travel. Eligible Card Members have access to more than 1,550 lounges worldwide, including 30 Centurion Lounges.
American Express continues to expand and enhance the Centurion Lounge Network with plans announced to open new lounge locations at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City in 2025 and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in Amsterdam in 2026.
DALLAS, July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Beginning July 29, 2025, Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) Customers will have options to select their seat at the time of booking for flights beginning on Jan. 27, 2026.
“Our Customers want more choice and greater control over their travel experience,” said Tony Roach, Executive Vice President Customer & Brand, at Southwest Airlines. “Assigned seating unlocks new opportunities for our Customersโincluding the ability to select Extra Legroom seatsโand removes the uncertainty of not knowing where they will sit in the cabin. This is an important step in our evolution, and we’re excited to pair these enhancements with our legendary Customer Service.”
More Choice for All Customers
Southwestยฎ Customers will be able to choose from various fare bundles, some that offer the opportunity to select a seat during the booking process, as well as access to the different seat typesโExtra Legroom, Preferred, and Standard. Customers will also be able to purchase a seat upgrade to elevate their travel experience.
Rapid Rewardsยฎ Credit Cardmembers,1 depending on which Card they hold, can select a seat at booking or within 48 hours of departure, regardless of which fare they purchase, including Basic fares2.
As Southwest begins to operate with assigned seating on Jan. 27, 2026, the airline will also begin a new group-based boarding process designed to deliver a smooth and efficient Customer Experience on every flight.
The boarding process is optimized for assigned seating and will prioritize Customers into groups based on seat location, beginning with Extra Legroom seats in boarding Groups 1-2. Premium fares and Southwest’s most loyal CustomersโTier Members and Credit Cardmembersโwill board earlier in the process. For a more detailed view of group-based boarding, visit Southwest.comยฎ.
Customers will be able to purchase Priority Boarding beginning 24 hours prior to departure to be among the first to board.
Today’s announcements follow Southwest’s launch of a new advertising campaign “Are You Sitting Down?” which draws upon the airline’s signature humor to build excitement around the launch of assigned seating.
1Southwest Rapid Rewardsยฎ Credit Cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply.
2Terms Apply. Seat selection subject to availability.
We have a new feature on AirlinersGallery.com photo library called “This day in airline history”. Today we remember the tragic accident at Sioux City, IA (click the link for more details):
Braniff International Airways (1st) (American Airlines) Boeing 747-123 N9666 (msn 20105) DFW (Christian Volpati Collection). Image: 961128.
While Braniff International Airways (BI) awaited the factory delivery of several Boeing 747-227’s and 747SP-27’s for their rapidly expanding international route system (including new services across both the Atlantic and Pacific), they needed more than just their single owned “Jumbo Jet” 747-127 “N601BN.” So, ironically, they leased one in the early spring of 1978 from American Airlines (AA), the company that would be most responsible for BI’s demise four short years later. Needing to press 747-123 “N9666” into operation as quickly as possible upon delivery, Braniff decided to forego the usual solid color covering the entire fuselage and simply painted a single wide orange stripe over American’s triple stripe of red, white, and blue. They also left AA’s overall bare metal fuselage and simply added their “BI” tail logo and “Braniff international” fuselage titles to create a one-off design never seen on any other Braniff aircraft in the company’s history. Chances are the American interior was left untouched as well (although BN had installed leather seats in both coach and first class sections of N601BN by this time). BTW, N601BN was known informally inside the company as “Big Orange” since 1971. What was the nickname for partially bare-aluminum N9666, seen here at DFW, during her two-year stint with Braniff? “Big Alcoa,” of course!
![](<a href="https://airlinersgallery.smugmug.com/Airlines-USA6/United-Airlines-historic/i-cs4LZ5k/A"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Airlines-USA6/United-Airlines-historic/i-cs4LZ5k/0/NDRXCknwWbGLsZVqwvTWTdrswbRDCBLdc26tgNrm8/M/United%20DC-10-10%20N1819U%20%2888%29%28Grd%29%20EWR%20%28AJS-RRC%29%2846%29-M.jpg" alt="United flight UA232 on July 19, 1989 from DEN - ORD diverted and crash landed at Sioux City, IA, after suffering a failure of its #2 engine due to an unnoticed manufacturing defect in the engine's fan disk, which resulted in the loss of all flight controls. Of the 296 passengers and crew on board, 112 died during the attempted landing, 184 survived. More details: United Airlines flight 232 was a scheduled passenger flight operated with a McDonnell Douglas DC-10-10, the pictured N1819U, that experienced a catastrophic in-flight emergency on July 19, 1989. En route from Denver to Chicago (ORD), the aircraft suffered an uncontained failure of its tail-mounted number two engine. Debris from the disintegrating fan disk severed all three of the aircraft's hydraulic systemsโrendering conventional flight controls inoperable. This complete loss of hydraulics left the crew with no ability to control the airplane using standard control surfaces. Despite the unprecedented mechanical failure, Captain Al Haynes, First Officer William Records, Flight Engineer Dudley Dvorak, and a check airman, Dennis Fitchโwho happened to be aboardโworked together using asymmetric thrust from the remaining engines to maneuver the aircraft. Their ingenuity and cooperation enabled the crippled DC-10 to reach Sioux Gateway Airport in Sioux City, Iowa, where they attempted an emergency landing. As the aircraft descended, it was largely uncontrollable in roll and pitch, resulting in a high-sink-rate landing. Upon touchdown, the aircraft cartwheeled, broke apart, and caught fire. Of the 296 people on board, 185 survived and 111 lost their lives. While tragic, the survival rate was considered remarkable given the extent of the damage and loss of control. Flight 232 became a landmark case in aviation history, prompting reevaluation of aircraft system redundancies and contributing to improvements in crew resource management (CRM). The professionalism and coordination demonstrated by the flight crew were widely praised, and the event remains a vital reference point for training and aircraft design."></a>)
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