FlightGlobal
• Alfred Chua
Qantas will begin nonstop Sydney–New York flights in mid-2028 using the Airbus A350-1000ULR, making the route the second confirmed operation under its Project Sunrise ultra-long-haul program. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale in August 2027; Qantas currently serves New York via Auckland.
Airlines
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Qantas will begin nonstop Sydney–New York flights in mid-2028 using the Airbus A350-1000ULR, making the route the second confirmed operation under its Project Sunrise ultra-long-haul program. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale in August 2027; Qantas currently serves New York via Auckland.
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AirAsia’s effort to lower its borrowing costs is becoming more difficult as oil prices approach $100 a barrel. Higher fuel expenses can pressure airline cash flow and credit metrics, complicating refinancing and increasing the cost of capital for the group’s fleet and network plans.
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Ethiopian Airlines has received two additional new Boeing 737 MAX 8s, bringing its MAX fleet to 31 aircraft and its total fleet to 167. The deliveries reinforce the carrier’s continued fleet expansion and modernization strategy in Africa’s growing aviation market.
Iran has threatened neighboring airports over restrictions affecting its airlines as U.S. sanctions disrupt regional connectivity. Some Iranian flights to China and Russia continue, underscoring the uneven impact of the restrictions and the growing geopolitical pressure on the country’s air transport network.
American Airlines is preparing to launch its Airbus A321XLR, positioning the aircraft alongside United Airlines’ A321 Coastliner. Delta Air Lines is planning a premium A321 subfleet but has yet to launch it, leaving American and United ahead in deploying differentiated A321 products.
Abra Group is considering placing Embraer E2 aircraft with portfolio airlines Avianca and GOL, signaling potential fleet implications for both carriers as the group evaluates deployment of the next-generation regional jet.
Low-cost carriers are asking the FAA to facilitate access to airport slots formerly held by Spirit Airlines. The request highlights how Spirit’s changing position could affect the allocation of scarce airport capacity and competitive opportunities for other budget operators.
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Iberia will mark its 100th anniversary on June 28, 2027, with a special livery for several aircraft and a central celebration at its La Muñoza facilities. The Spanish flag carrier also plans to begin refurbishing long-haul aircraft interiors and hold an air show.
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