Southwest Airlines (US) has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a Boeing 737-8, identified by serial number 68628, and powered by LEAP-1B28 engines. This latest addition reflects Southwest’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its fleet and enhancing operational efficiency.
Novoair (Bangladesh) continues its efforts to lease three A320 aircraft as part of its expansion strategy. However, the airline anticipates that the process may take up to another year due to the ongoing global shortage of available aircraft.
Korean Air has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-8, bearing serial number 63448, equipped with LEAP-1B engines. This aircraft will eventually serve as a VIP transport operated by South Korea’s Air Force, reflecting its critical role in supporting high-level governmental and military operations.
Freebird Airlines (Turkiye) has announced plans to operate several aircraft under a wet lease agreement with VietJet Air (Vietnam) in the coming months. This partnership highlights the growing collaboration between the two carriers and supports VietJet Air’s operational needs during peak travel periods.
FlySafair (South Africa) has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a Boeing 737-800, bearing serial number 40971. The aircraft was acquired on lease from Aircraft Engine Lease Finance (US), a significant move aimed at bolstering the airline’s operational capacity.
Crestone Air Partners currently has an A321-200 undergoing freighter conversion, with another A321F airframeavailable for immediate sale or lease. The available airframe is located in Marana, AZ, providing a convenient option for operators seeking to expand their freighter fleets quickly.
Aergo Capital (Ireland) has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of an A320 family aircraft, bearing serial number 5660, from Deucalion Aviation (UK). The purchase was made on behalf of a managed client, with the aircraft currently on lease to Wizz Air (Hungary).
Norwegian has revised its 2024 group operating profit forecast to approximately US$161 million, reflecting a lower-than-expected performance. The adjustment is largely attributed to balance sheet changes resulting from the weakening of the Norwegian Krone (NOK) against the US Dollar (USD) during the fourth quarter of 2024.
LCI (Ireland) and Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing (Japan) have successfully executed US$420 million in loan facilities, designated to fund social projects, including the acquisition of helicopters. This strategic collaboration highlights the increasing focus on financing projects that contribute to societal benefits, particularly in sectors such as emergency medical services and search and rescue operations.
The Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Sedena), the governmental department overseeing Mexicana, has increased its budget request to US$1.0 billion to finance the purchase of 20 Embraer E2 aircraft currently on order. This significant investment highlights Sedena’s ambition to modernize Mexicana’s fleet and enhance its operational capacity.
