FlightGlobal
• Kerry Reals
KLM has completed two test flights with its first Airbus A350 ahead of delivery later this month. The widebody is expected to enter service on routes including Toronto, Montreal and Nairobi, marking the aircraft’s initial deployment within KLM’s network.
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IndiGo plans to expand its fleet to 550 aircraft by fiscal 2030 while increasing the share it owns to 30–40%, with the balance remaining under operating leases. The strategy would give India’s largest airline greater control over fleet assets while retaining leasing flexibility.
QantasLink plans to place its first in-house Embraer E190 into commercial service in January 2027, subject to regulatory approval. The move would mark the Australian regional carrier’s entry into operating the aircraft type directly, although the available report does not provide further details on fleet size or routes.
KLM has completed two test flights with its first Airbus A350 ahead of delivery later this month. The widebody is expected to enter service on routes including Toronto, Montreal and Nairobi, marking the aircraft’s initial deployment within KLM’s network.
Avincis is partnering with McDermott Aviation to acquire five 214ST helicopters, expanding its capabilities in aerial firefighting and utility operations. The deal adds dedicated heavy-lift rotorcraft capacity to Avincis’ emergency-response and specialized aviation activities.
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Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation has signed memoranda and letters of intent with three Indian domestic carriers covering as many as 105 Il-114-300 regional turboprops, including a 35-aircraft agreement with Sleek Aviation. UAC is also advancing plans for local production of the SJ-100 ahead of the BRICS summit.
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Qatar Airways reported a $1.94 billion profit after carrying 41.8 million passengers, while advancing a potential Boeing agreement covering as many as 210 widebody aircraft. The airline also highlighted a maintenance hub with approximately $4 billion in assets and inventory supporting nearly 600 daily flights.
Russia’s Pobeda says it needs to update its fleet to support further growth, according to the low-cost airline’s chief executive. The comments point to fleet availability and renewal as central constraints on the carrier’s expansion plans.
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BOC Aviation will acquire 12 Airbus A320neos for long-term lease to Avianca, with CFM LEAP-1A engines and deliveries scheduled for 2029. Separately, EgyptAir subsidiary Air Cairo placed a firm order for 15 A320neos, expanding its fleet through direct ownership as it pursues regional growth.
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