Alaska Airlines has officially retired its first Boeing 737-900, registered as N302AS, after nearly 22 years of service.This aircraft holds the distinction of being the prototype for the -900 series, marking a significant milestone in aviation history.
Airbus delivered a total of 136 commercial aircraft during the first quarter of 2025, with a particularly robust performance in March, when it handed over 71 jets. This delivery figure highlights Airbus’ continued operational strength and its ability to maintain high production rates amid global supply chain challenges.
Thai Airways International has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Airbus to retrofit its fleet of A350 aircraft, beginning in 2028, with state-of-the-art cabin upgrades. The agreement marks a key milestone in Thai Airways’ ongoing fleet modernization and passenger experience enhancement strategy.
Vietnam Airlines has taken a significant step in strengthening its financial position by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Citibank (US), securing a funding commitment exceeding US$560 million. The capital injection is aimed at supporting the airline’s long-term strategic investment initiatives, which include fleet renewal, modernization efforts, and infrastructure development.
Vietjet Air (Vietnam) has signed a major aircraft financing agreement worth US$300 million with AV AirFinance (US), further strengthening its financial ties with key American institutions. This agreement is one segment of a larger portfolio of deals the airline has been actively pursuing to fund its fleet expansion and modernization.
Lulutai Airlines (Tonga) has officially submitted a request for a government subsidy aimed at accelerating its financial recovery efforts before a potential privatization. The move comes as the airline attempts to stabilize operations and repay existing liabilities, positioning itself as a more viable candidate for a private investor.
Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced its intention to raise capital through the issuance of bond-type preferred shares, with an issuance cap of US$1.3 billion. These instruments will not carry voting rights or conversion rights to common stock, positioning them as a hybrid financing mechanism aimed at strengthening the airline’s balance sheet while limiting dilution for existing shareholders.
I Fly Airlines (Russia) has reported a significant threefold increase in revenue for the first quarter of 2025, reaching over US$23 million, largely driven by the ongoing wet lease of three A330 aircraft to fellow Russian carrier Aeroflot. This leasing arrangement has provided a stable revenue stream for I Fly and underscores the growing interdependence between carriers in the Russian market as…
HALO AirFinance (US) has announced the successful closing of a mezzanine loan transaction in collaboration with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (Japan), secured by a Boeing 747-8F freighter. The deal supports a US-based air cargo operator and highlights continued interest in structured aircraft financing solutions for widebody freighter assets.
Ghana has initiated formal discussions with World Aviation Group (US) to evaluate the possibility of establishing a new national carrier, reviving efforts to restore a flag carrier presence in the West African nation. This latest move reflects the government’s ongoing ambition to enhance air connectivity, stimulate tourism, and boost regional competitiveness through a domestically-rooted airline.
