Toulouse, France, 28 May 2025 – Air Niugini, the national carrier of Papua New Guinea, has signed a firm order with Airbus for two more latest generation single-aisle A220-100s. This follows an initial order in 2023 for six aircraft. In addition, the carrier has lease agreements signed for three A220-300s from US-based lessor Azorra.

The new order was disclosed as the first A220 for the airline entered final assembly at Airbus facilities in Mirabel in Canada.

Gary Seddon, Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini said: “The A220 is set to form the backbone of our domestic and regional fleet and will support economic development  in Papua New Guinea. As we continue to forecast strong growth we have made the decision to increase our orders for this fuel efficient type, bringing a whole new level of efficiency and comfort for our operations.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft business said: “This is Air Niugini’s second order for the A220. We are committed to working closely with the airline as we support its fleet renewal programme. The A220 is quite simply the most efficient aircraft in its size category, with a wider and spacious cabin and the range to fly non-stop to any destination on the carrier’s network.”

Combining the longest range, lowest fuel consumption, the A220 is the most modern airliner in its size category, carrying between 100 to 160 passengers on flights of up to 3,600 nautical miles (6,700 km). Depending on cabin configuration, the A220-100 serves the 100-135 seat market, while the larger A220-300 is perfectly tailored for the 120-160 seat market. 

The A220 is powered by Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation GTF™ engines and offers a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A220 is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims for all its aircraft to be capable of operating with up to 100% SAF by 2030. 

As at the end of April 2025, Airbus had received over 900 orders from more than 30 customers for the A220, of which over 410 have been delivered. The A220 is already in successful service with 24 operators worldwide. The fleet is currently flying on more than 1,600 routes and more than 470 destinations across the globe, confirming its leading position in the small single-aisle market.

Final commercial Sunwing flight on May 28 begins new chapter of Canadian air travel

CALGARY, AB, May 28, 2025 /CNW/ – Today marks a significant milestone for the WestJet Group, as the airline officially completes its integration of Sunwing Airlines. This achievement represents two years (to the month) of dedicated work, strategic coordination and consultation, and a commitment to delivering greater value and connectivity for Canadian travellers.

“Completing two airline consolidations in just two years—the first with Swoop in 2024 and now Sunwing—was complex and required coordination across every aspect of our business, from operational, labour, and regulatory areas to experiential and cultural elements,” says Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group. “Achieving this milestone is proof of the incredible way our unified team works together and is a clear win for WestJet and our guests; it’s also a story of transformation in Canadian aviation. A huge thanks to everyone who contributed!”

WestJet acquired Sunwing in May 2023, the first step of many in bringing together two distinctly Canadian travel and tourism success stories, as part of WestJet’s ambition to be the leader in providing affordable and accessible sun and leisure travel for Canadians.

The vision to integrate Sunwing Airlines, realized on May 29, 2025, is part of the airline’s strategy to deliver new and competitive travel options, and greater overall value for Canadians in sun and leisure market, while strengthening Canada’s travel industry at a critical time.

WestJet has now integrated all jet aircraft under a single Air Operator Certificate (AOC), including 16 former Swoop aircraft, another nine former Lynx Air aircraft which were secured after that airline went out of business, and now 18 more from Sunwing Airlines. WestJet’s unified narrowbody operation will begin to realize efficiencies once it transforms these aircraft with cabin reconfigurations to the WestJet standard interior being completed through 2025.

The result of this integration will be a consistent onboard experience for guests, with a more diverse range of onboard product offerings, including Premium, Economy, Extended Comfort, and UltraBasic seating available on all 150 Boeing 737 aircraft across the airline. WestJet’s concept for expanding cabin optionality will serve the evolving needs of Canadian travellers who appreciate the ability to choose between a range of products and price points, without compromising on network.

Additionally, guests flying on WestJet with reservations through the Sunwing Vacations brand, which continues to exist as Canada’s post popular vacations provider, or its wholly owned tour operator businesses, can expect an improved end-to-end travel experience, as Canada’s leading vacations provider continues to streamline processes and booking flows with guests in mind.

“The final Sunwing-operated flight this week is a time to reflect,” von Hoensbroech notes, recognizing that Sunwing has played an important and influential role in the Canadian leisure travel market. “I know every Sunwing employee, past and present feels their contributions have mattered to advancing the experience of air travel. To all WestJetters and former Sunwing team members: thank you. This milestone is your achievement, and a proud moment for us all.”

DANIA BEACH, Fla., May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Spirit Airlines (NYSE American: FLYY) is taking new flavors to the skies with the launch of its updated inflight menu. Guests can now savor an assortment of new snack and beverage options served alongside a bold new look. The refreshed menu introduces 12 new items and combos, including sweet and savory snacks and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

“We know our Guests have great taste when they choose to fly Spirit, and now we’re giving them delicious new choices to add more flavor and value to their adventure,” said Dana Shapir Alviene, Senior Vice President of Inflight and Airport Experience at Spirit Airlines. “Plus, Guests who choose a premium experience with Go Big can enjoy complimentary options to sip and snack on.”

New Inflight Menu Items & Creative Design
Spirit is bringing its “More Fly” brand campaign to the inflight menu while introducing exciting new menu items. Guests can browse tasty selections including more combo options, which offer better selections for savings. Travelers looking for a sweet treat or something savory will have new options to choose from including Quaker® Instant Oatmeal Maple & Brown Sugar, Twisted Noodles® Veggie Ramen, Grandma’s® Mini Sandwich Cremes Vanilla, Stash® English Breakfast tea, Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar, Samuel Adams® American Light, Voodoo Ranger® IPA and Buzzbox® Cuban Mojito.

Additionally, Guests who Go Big can enjoy new complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, while Guests who Go Comfy can enjoy Spirit’s complimentary More Fly snack mix and a non-alcoholic drink.

Guest Experience Enhancements
Spirit Airlines recently unveiled its brand new, extra-legroom seating option as part of its ongoing commitment to elevate the Guest experience. The new preferred seating offers travelers even more comfort across four additional inches of legroom in Go Comfy with a new total pitch of 32 inches. The extra-legroom seats are available for booking now for travel beginning July 9, 2025.

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. The carrier was also recognized by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) as a 2025  Four Star Low Cost Carrier. Additionally, the airline’s Fit Fleet® was ranked one of the world’s youngest for 2025 by ch-aviation, and Spirit received the FAA’s Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence for the seventh consecutive year. 

WestJet Cargo has announced the expansion of its trans-Pacific capacity with the launch of daily year-round service between Calgary and Tokyo Narita International Airport. Operated by WestJet’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, each flight offers 22 tons and 80 cubic meters of cargo capacity, providing consistent and reliable lift between North America and Asia.

“Expanding our cargo capacity to Japan through daily Dreamliner service is a pivotal step forward for WestJet Cargo,” said Julius Mooney, Director of Commercial at WestJet Cargo. “This route enables Canadian exporters and global shippers to move high-value and time-sensitive goods with speed and reliability, while also strengthening Western Canada’s role as a key gateway to Asia.”

This enhanced service supports strong bilateral trade. Japan is exporting industrial, automotive, electronic, high-tech, and manufacturing goods through WestJet Cargo’s growing network across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Europe. In return, Canadian perishables, meat, seafood, and general freight are reaching Japan faster and more efficiently than ever before.

Bookings on this route are available through WestJet Cargo’s digital partners—CargoAi, WebCargo, and Cargo.one—ensuring seamless access and real-time management for freight forwarders and logistics providers worldwide.

The cargo expansion complements WestJet’s daily year-round passenger service to Tokyo and its broadened codeshare with Japan Airlines, providing smooth onward connectivity to Osaka and Nagoya, and reinforcing Calgary’s growing role in global trade and logistics.

Yesterday, on May 22, 2025, the Latvian airline airBaltic launched direct flights between Vilnius, Lithuania, and Prague, the Czech Republic. The new service between the two cities takes nearly two hours, with flights operating twice a week – on Thursdays and Saturdays – from May 22 until September 27, 2025.

Mantas Vrubliauskas, VP Network Management at airBaltic: “For more than 20 years, Vilnius has been one of our bases, and we remain committed to strengthening connectivity from Lithuania. By expanding to more destinations, we aim to offer more convenient travel options for our passengers and continue growing our market share in the country. The launch of direct flights between Vilnius and Prague restores a long-unserved route, making travel significantly easier for the approximately 20 000 passengers annually who previously relied on connecting flights. This new service will support both leisure and business travel, while also contributing to inbound tourism and the broader economic development of Lithuania and the entire Baltic region.”

This new route marks airBaltic’s second connection to the Czech Republic, complementing the long-standing service between the airline’s home base in Riga and Prague. During this summer season (from late March to late October), airBaltic will operate 16 direct routes from the Lithuanian capital to various destinations across Europe and beyond, while also continuing to offer direct flights from Palanga, Lithuania, to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and Riga, Latvia.

On flights between Vilnius and Prague, airBaltic will offer both Economy and Business Class. Business Class passengers can enjoy a comprehensive full-service package, including priority check-in and boarding, a front-of-cabin seat with a free seat for added privacy, a gourmet meal perfectly paired with a curated selection of premium beverages, and quicker disembarking upon arrival. Throughout the flight, a dedicated Business Class cabin crew ensures exceptional service. 

The airBaltic fleet, one of the youngest in Europe, consists of a single aircraft type – Airbus A220-300. The airline currently operates 50 of such aircraft and aims to double in size. The aircraft offers an excellent flying experience, with benefits for passengers such as wider seats, larger windows, more hand luggage space in the cabin and improved lavatories, as well as better overall performance. Furthermore, the airline offers free high-speed SpaceX Starlink internet, making it the first European airline to provide this service. The entire fleet is planned to be equipped with this service.

MIAMI, FL (May 20, 2025) — Today, the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners approved the construction of New Concourse K at Miami International Airport (MIA), a transformative infrastructure project marking a significant milestone in MIA’s ambitious $9 billion Future-Ready Modernization in Action plan.

With an investment of $600.6 million, this expansion will deliver six new gates, a ground support equipment maintenance facility, enhanced baggage handling systems, and critical upgrades to airfield infrastructure — all designed to meet the growing demand for passenger traffic. The Modernization in Action plan positions MIA to accommodate 77 million passengers and 5 million tons of cargo by 2040.

The project includes:

Design and construction of six new contact gates
Construction of an associated aircraft apron and jet fuel hydrant system
A ground support equipment maintenance facility
Installation of two new baggage make-up carousels
Upgrades to the existing baggage handling system to connect the Central and South Terminals
Envision LEED Silver certification for sustainable infrastructure

“MIA has not seen a terminal expansion since 2007, making this a truly transformative milestone for our airport,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “The launch of Concourse K will not only increase capacity and create thousands of new jobs but also reinforce MIA’s role as a premier Global Gateway. With the unwavering support of the Board of County Commissioners and the dedication of Director Ralph Cutie, his team, and our airport partners, we are making visionary, future-ready investments that will build a stronger, more vibrant airport—one that uplifts our community, welcomes the world, and powers our economy into the future.”

With nearly 56 million passengers and more than 3 million U.S. tons of freight recorded in 2024 alone, the demand for additional space and improved efficiency at MIA continues to grow. Concourse K is a key part of Miami-Dade County’s historic investments to modernize the airport’s facilities and meet record-breaking demand while improving service, safety, and operational flow. Construction of Concourse K is set to begin following a ceremonial groundbreaking this summer and is scheduled for completion by Spring 2029.

Lemartec-NV2A Joint Venture, LLC has been awarded the general contractor contract, with Perez & Perez Architects Planners, Inc. serving as the lead architect.

“Lemartec-NV2A JV, in collaboration with Perez & Perez, is honored to help realize MIA’s vision by delivering a world-class facility with a steadfast commitment to quality and exceeding MIA’s expectations,” said Lemartec-NV2A JV and Perez & Perez Architects Planners.

Aer Lingus today announces the launch of its first direct flight to Cancún, Mexico, commencing from January 2026. The new route from Dublin to Cancún will operate 3 times weekly on the airline’s A330-300 aircraft, offering Irish holidaymakers a seamless route to the warmth and vibrant cultural heritage of the Mexican Caribbean. This new direct service, operating from 6 January to 29 April 2026, provides an effortless option for those looking to escape the cold Irish winter months, while avoiding the hassle of long stopovers.

Cancún, with its balmy weather, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters has long been a popular destination with Irish travellers, making it a perfect addition to the airline’s long-haul portfolio. The appeal of Cancún goes beyond its beaches, the region is also home to the awe-inspiring archaeological sites of El Rey, Ichkabal, Coba, Kohunlich, El Meco, Chichén Itzá, and Tulum, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Mexico’s rich heritage.

Beyond its stunning landscapes and historical intrigue, Cancún offers Irish foodies a chance to savour the authentic flavours of Mexican cuisine. From the smoky, charred richness of grilled meats to the region’s iconic zesty ceviche, Cancún is a haven for food lovers. Whether indulging in local delicacies like Lobster Pizza, Queso De Bola, crispy sweet Marquesitas or savouring freshly made Guacamole, visitors can embark on a culinary adventure that brings Mexico’s world-famous flavours to life—offering an experience that has already captivated taste buds across Ireland.

Connecting Ireland to Mexico and Beyond

This route opens up the potential for travellers from across Europe and the UK to connect seamlessly in Dublin to Aer Lingus’ new Cancún route. Already a favourite with honeymooners, Cancún also offers a wide range of family-friendly hotels and resorts catering to all price points. For those hoping for a winter break with a difference, Cancún offers a fantastic alternative for those looking for a hassle-free journey to a culturally rich sunshine hotpot.

Lynne Embleton, Aer Lingus Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our new direct route from Dublin to Cancún introduces a vibrant new destination to our network and further increases Aer Lingus’ winter sun offering. Our research highlights a strong appetite amongst customers for new travel experiences, particularly seasonal destinations beyond the peak summer period. Mexico, with its tropical climate, caters to the growing consumer demand for winter sun, while also offering a rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine.”

Mara Lezama Espinosa, Quintana Roo State Governor, said: “Quintana Roo, the Mexican Caribbean, welcomes and celebrates the first direct Dublin – Cancun flight from Aer Lingus. We will work together with our partner Aer Lingus to make this a successful operation!” 

The announcement of this new route comes as Ireland and Mexico mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Carolina Zaragoza Flores, Ambassador of Mexico to Ireland, said: “In a landmark moment coinciding with the significant 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Ireland, the Embassy of Mexico warmly welcomes the commencement of direct flights connecting our two nations. This important development, fuelled by a growing bilateral trade relationship that sees Mexico as Ireland’s top trading partner in Latin America and Ireland as Mexico’s sixth-largest trade partner within the European Union, will undoubtedly foster even stronger economic ties, and lead toward a strategic partnership. By facilitating increased tourism, business opportunities, and cultural exchange, this direct air link will further enrich the deep and enduring friendship we celebrate this year.”

Aer Lingus’ new Dublin-Cancún route will not only bring Irish travellers closer to Cancún but will also provide them with an authentic connection to Mexico’s vibrant cultural landscape. Whether it’s exploring the ancient Mayan sites, enjoying the culinary delights, or immersing oneself in the lively atmosphere of Cancún, this direct flight is the perfect gateway to an unforgettable adventure.

The Airline Offers New Low-Cost Travel Options to Popular Destinations in Eight Cities

LAS VEGAS, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ: ALGT) today announced five new nonstop routes to eight cities around the country. To celebrate, the company is offering one-way fares on the new routes as low as $39.*

The routes, launching this fall, will provide the only nonstop service between these cities. Additionally, the airline added an intrastate route for travelers in Tennessee.

“This expansion caters to passengers and communities we feel have been overlooked by other carriers,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant’s chief commercial officer. “Allegiant’s unique business model, connecting small-to-medium sized cities to vacation destinations, creates accessible travel options not otherwise available in what we believe are underserved markets. We know travelers enjoy the convenience of nonstop flights departing from their neighborhood airport.”

The new route to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in Florida includes:

• South Bend, Indiana via South Bend International Airport (SBN) – beginning August 29, 2025 with one-way fares as low as $59.*

The new routes to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Tennessee include:

• Memphis, Tennessee via Memphis International Airport (MEM) – beginning September 4, 2025 with one-way fares as low as $39.*
• Key West, Florida via Key West International Airport (EYW) – beginning October 3, 2025 with one-way fares as low as $49.*

The new routes to Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF) in Alabama include:

• Appleton, Wisconsin via Appleton International Airport (ATW) – beginning October 2, 2025 with one-way fares as low as $59.*
• Des Moines, Iowa via Des Moines International Airport (DSM) – beginning October 3, 2025 with one-way fares as low as $59.*

A hallmark of Allegiant’s leisure-focused business model is that it operates a network of only nonstop, point-to-point flights, making air travel a more seamless experience. Passengers spend less time at the airport and more time on vacation.

In addition to the newly added routes, the company is thrilled to offer – for a limited time, only – a series of flights to Las Vegas for the NFL season, giving dedicated football fans a convenient, hassle-free ride to the game. These flights are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so secure your spot now while space is available.

“Football fans are the heartbeat of the game, and we want to make sure they can feel every pulse-pounding moment live,” said Wells. “These specialty flights have been extremely popular during past NFL seasons, and we expect them to sell out in advance of the game.”

The limited time routes to Las Vegas via Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) include:

• Chicago via Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) as the Bears take on the Raiders in a Week 4 showdown. Fans will depart on September 26 and return home on September 29.
• Nashville, Tennessee via Nashville International Airport (BNA) to watch the Titans vs. Raiders in Week 6. Fans will depart on October 10 and return home on October 13.
• Akron, Ohio via Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) when the Dawg Pound rallies in Las Vegas for a Week 12 clash with Raider Nation. Fans will depart on November 21 and return home on November 24.

PHOENIX – Mayor Kate Gallego today announced that STARLUX Airlines intends to begin new nonstop flights between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Taipei’s Taoyuan Airport.

The service, pending final government approvals, would begin early next year, with three to four flights a week.

This is the first nonstop air service to Asia for Phoenix and Arizona. Gallego shared the news in her annual State of the City Address. This announcement comes on the heels of the United States largest foreign direct investment ever with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s plans to invest $165 billion into its Phoenix facilities.

“Phoenix’s first non-stop flight to Asia reflects the incredible strides we’ve made with our local economy, and our emergence as an international city,” Gallego said. “TSMC’s historic investment in Phoenix has brought thousands of high wage jobs and boosted our reputation as a semiconductor hub, and now it’s helping increase air service demand.”

STARLUX Airlines was founded by legendary visionary Captain Kuo-Wei (K.W.) Chang who was the former chairman of EVA Air. In 2018, he launched STARLUX Airlines, his ultimate vision of a five-star airline rivaling the best in the world. With handpicked aircraft and a relentless focus on luxury, STARLUX took off in 2020 and has been redefining premium air travel ever since.

“I knew from the moment I set foot in Phoenix that STARLUX should make the investment to fly here. Not only is the growth of business between Taipei and Phoenix staggering, it’s a perfect match for our level of service. We are proud and honored to be the first carrier to provide nonstop Asia service for the Phoenix community,” Chairman K.W. Chang said.

Phoenix international flights add more than $3 billion to the local economy each year per the Airport’s most recent economic impact study. This service alone is estimated to have a $100 million plus economic impact each year.

“I am thrilled that STARLUX Airlines has chosen Phoenix Sky Harbor as its newest destination,” Aviation Director Chad Makovsky said. “This significant win for Phoenix and our entire region is a testament to the vision and dedication of Mayor Gallego and our City Council as they support the continued growth and modernization of our airport to serve as a top-tier international gateway.”

Service will initially begin with an A350-900 aircraft that has 306 seats. Tickets will go on sale once government approval is formalized