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Lion Wings Air converts 15 ATR 72-500 options to firm orders
February 28, 2011
Lion Wings Air (Indonesia) ATR 72-212A (ATR 72-500) PK-WFI (msn 871) DPS (Michael B. Ing) (formerly Wings Air), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Lion Wings Air (Jakarta) has converted 15 ATR 72-500 options to firm orders.
Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Please click on the photo for further information.
Bangladesh Airlines reverts back to Biman Bangladesh Airlines name and old livery
February 28, 2011
Bangladesh Airlines Boeing 777-212 ER CS-TFM (msn 28513) LHR (Richard Vandervord), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Bangladesh Airlines (Dhaka) has reverted back to its old Biman Bangladesh Airlines name and the old 1983 livery.
Biman was established on January 04, 1972 with a a gift of Douglas DC-3 aircraft from Bangladesh Air force.
Copyright Photo: Richard Vandervord. Please click on the photo for the full story.
TAM signs MOU for 22 A320neo and 10 A320 Family aircraft
February 28, 2011
TAM Brasil (TAM Paraguay) Airbus A320-232 PR-MAG (msn 1832) FLN (AirSpeed) (note the Paraguay flag), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
TAM Linhas Aereas (Sao Paulo) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 22 A320neo and 10 A320 Family aircraft. When signed as a contract, the order will make TAM the launch customer for the A320neo in Latin America.
Copyright Photo: AirSpeed. Please click on the photo for additional information.
WestJet Airlines and American Airlines sign their new code share agreement
February 28, 2011
WestJet Airlines Boeing 737-8CT WL C-GKWJ (msn 34151) LAX (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
WestJet Airlines (Calgary) and American Airlines (Dallas/Fort Worth) announced today they have entered into a comprehensive codeshare agreement, providing customers with more choices and greater connectivity when travelling between the United States and Canada.
The codeshare relationship, which is subject to regulatory approvals, will allow American to place its AA* code on WestJet flights, and WestJet to place its WS* code on flights of American Airlines and American Eagle.
The placement of AA* code on WestJet flights will provide American’s customers seamless connecting service to up to 20 Canadian cities not currently served by American or American Eagle. WestJet will initially place its WS* code on American or American Eagle flights from Canada to Chicago and Boston, with expanded service throughout American Airlines network expected in the near future. The codeshare agreement will make it easier and more convenient for customers to connect from WestJet to American’s global route network and from American to WestJet’s Canadian operations.
In other news, WestJet launched new nonstop seasonal service between St. John’s and Orlando.
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Boeing celebrates two years of 777 freighter operations
February 28, 2011
FedEx Express Boeing 777-FS2 N884FD (msn 37137) PAE (Nick Dean) (new delivery), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago, Seattle, Wichita and Charleston) is celebrating the second anniversary of the Boeing 777 freighter in service.
The growing fleet of 777 freighters has flown approximately 120,000 hours and boasts a daily utilization rate of 11.34 hours. Fleet schedule reliability is at 99.37 percent, which means the freighter has a near-perfect record of on-time takeoff and landings. Eighty-three have been ordered, and 39 freighters now are in service with nine airlines.
FedEx Express is the largest 777 freighter operator with a fleet of 11 currently in operation, and another airplane just delivered. An additional 13 777 freighters remain in Boeing’s backlog for FedEx.
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean. Please click on the photo for additional information.
American Eagle to launch DFW-Durango flights on June 9
February 28, 2011
American Eagle Airlines (2nd) Embraer ERJ Tails MIA (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
American Eagle Airlines (2nd) (Dallas/Fort Worth) has announced daily nonstop service between Durango La-Plata County Airport in Durango, CO, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, beginning on June 9. Eagle will fly one daily round trip with 50-seat Embraer ERJ 145 regional jet aircraft.
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum.
Continental Airlines postpones the launch of the Newark-Cairo route
February 28, 2011
Continental Airlines Boeing 777-224 ER N77019 (msn 35547) NRT (Michael B. Ing), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Continental Airlines (Houston) has postponed the launch of the Newark-Cairo route previously scheduled to start on May 18. Due to the political unrest in Egypt, demand for the route has decreased.
Please see the previous blog entry on this subject: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Please click on the photo for aircraft details.
Delta Air Lines becomes the official airline of the St. Louis Cardinals
February 28, 2011
Delta Air Lines Boeing 757-2Q8 WL N713TW (msn 28173) JFK (Ken Petersen), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Delta Air Lines (Atlanta) has become the official airline of the St. Louis Cardinals of Major League Baseball (MLB).
The St. Louis Cardinals are members of the Central Division in the National League of Major League Baseball. The Cardinals have won 10 World Series championships, tops in the National League and second in MLB only to the American League’s New York Yankees, who have 27.
The Cardinals were founded in the American Association in 1882 as the St. Louis Brown Stockings, taking the name from an earlier National League team. They joined the National League in 1892 and have been known as the Cardinals since 1900.
Copyright Photo: Ken Petersen. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Malaysia Airlines posts a $77 million net profit in 2010
February 28, 2011
Malaysia Airlines Boeing 747-4H6 9M-MPB (msn 25699) (red hibiscus) LHR (Antony J. Best), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Malaysia Airlines (Kuala Lumpur) posted a $77 million net profit in 2010, down from 2009.
Read the full report from ATW: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Antony J. Best. Please click on the photo for additional details.
TAM Linhas Aereas orders two additional Boeing 777-300 ERs
February 28, 2011
TAM Brasil (TAM Linhas Aereas) Boeing 777-32W ER PT-MUD (msn 37667) PAE (Nick Dean), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
TAM Linhas Aereas (Sao Paulo) has ordered two additional Boeing 777-300 ERs.
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean. Please click on photo for additional details.
MEA to join the SkyTeam in 2012
February 28, 2011
MEA-Middle East Airlines Airbus A330-243 F-ORMA (msn 926) LHR (Antony J. Best), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Middle East Airlines – Air Liban (MEA) (Beirut), the flag carrier of Lebanon, today (February 28, 2011) signed an agreement to join SkyTeam in 2012.
Copyright Photo: Antony J. Best. Please click on the photo for further information.
A new leaner Mesa Air Group prepares to exit Chapter 11
February 28, 2011
US Airways Express-Mesa Airlines Bombardier CRJ900 (CL-600-2D24) N934FJ (msn 15034) LGB (Stephen Tornblom), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Mesa Air Group (Phoenix) is expected to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection this week with US Airways as its major partner.
Read the full story from the Arizona Republic: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Stephen Tornblom. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Air New Zealand has a profitable fiscal first half
February 27, 2011
Air New Zealand Boeing 777-319 ER ZK-OKM (msn 38405) LAX (James Helbock), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Air New Zealand (Auckland) reported before taxes profit of NZ$112 million for the six month period ending on December 31, 2010, including an $18 million gain on equity swaps relating to the investment in Virgin Blue Airlines.
On December 21, 2010, the New Zealand government approved an alliance between Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue, which allows both carriers to expand operations between Australia and New Zealand with codeshares for trans-Tasman and connecting domestic flights, reciprocal access to lounges and frequent flyer programs.
On January 20, 2011, Air New Zealand announced it would take a shareholding stake of between 10% and 14.99% in Virgin Blue.
Copyright Photo: James Helbock. Please click on the photo for information on the introduction of the new Boeing 777-300 ER.
Virgin Blue reports on its financial results for its fiscal first half
February 27, 2011
Virgin Blue Airlines (Virginblue.com.au) Boeing 737-7FE WL VH-VBZ (msn 34322) SYD (John Adlard), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Blue Holdings Limited (Brisbane) reported an Underlying Net Profit Before Tax of A$72 million, in line with the guidance of $70-75 million announced to the market on January 25, 2011. The company reported a Net Profit After Tax of A$24 million.
In other news, the Virgin Blue Group of Airlines also announced it will build its first new wide-body hangar and associated infrastructure at Sydney Airport as part of a new engineering maintenance base to support its growing operations.
Finally in fleet news, Virgin Blue will introduce up to 18 ATR 72 turboprop aircraft as part of the recently announced strategic alliance with Sky West Airlines (Perth).
The first four of the 68-seat ATR 72 aircraft will be introduced in the middle of 2011, with a further four to arrive next year.
Copyright Photo: John Adlard. Please click on the photo for the aircraft details.
REX’s half-year profit drops to A$12.2 million
February 27, 2011
REX (Regional Express) SAAB 340B VH-SBA (msn 311) (City of Wagga Wagga) SYD (John Adlard), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
REX (Regional Express) (Wagga Wagga) has announced a half-year profit (ending on December 31) of A$12.2 million before tax.
Copyright Photo: John Adlard. Please click on the photo for the full story of REX and this special livery.
Tiger Airways invests in SEAIR, SEAIR to launch Manila Clark-Hong Kong route
February 27, 2011
Tiger Airways (tigerairways.com) (Singapore) Airbus A320-232 9V-TAE (msn 2724) SIN (Michael B. Ing), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Tiger Airways (Singapore) has taken a 32.5 percent share of partner airline SEAIR (South East Asian Airlines) (Manila-Clark). The relationship will be expanded on March 14 when SEAIR adds the Clark-Hong Kong route using Tiger Airways’ Airbus A320s.
Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Please click on the photo for the full details of this growing relationship.
Tiger Airways route map:
AirAsia produces a record $349 million profit in 2010
February 27, 2011
AirAsia (AirAsia.com) (Malaysia) Airbus A320-214 9M-AFA (msn 2612) TLS, originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
AirAsia (Kuala Lumpur) continues to make money, despite a challenging environment. The airline group produced a record $349 million profit in 2010.
Read the full report from Bloomberg Businessweek: CLICK HERE
Interactive route map (routes from Kuala Lumpur): CLICK HERE
ANA files for anti-trust immunity to coordinate European routes and schedules with Lufthansa
February 27, 2011
ANA-All Nippon Airways Boeing 777-281 JA702A (msn 27033) FUK (John Adlard), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
ANA-All Nippon Airways (Tokyo) on February 23 filed an application with the Japanese Government for antitrust immunity to launch a joint venture with Lufthansa German Airlines (Frankfurt) on routes between Japan and Europe.
Subject to approval of the application by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, ANA and Lufthansa will be able to jointly manage their Japan-Europe operations in areas such as scheduling, pricing and sales.
Copyright Photo: John Adlard. Please click on the photo for aircraft details.
Asiana Airlines produces a $211 million net profit in 2010
February 27, 2011
Asiana Airlines Boeing 777-28E HL7755 (msn 30861) FRA (Bernhard Ross), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Asiana Airlines (Seoul) reported it produced a net profit of $211 million in 2010.
Read the full report from ATW: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Bernhard Ross. Please click on photo for aircraft information.
Ryanair takes delivery of its 300th Boeing 737-800
February 27, 2011
EI-ENZ Boeing 737-8AS, 300th 737-800 for Ryanair, originally uploaded by Irish251.
Ryanair (Dublin) has accepted its 300th Boeing 737-800. The airline will take delivery of a total of 37 of these aircraft during 2011 and is the world’s largest operator of the 737-800. Ryanair took delivery of its first 737-800, which seats 189 passengers, from Boeing in 1999. The total value of the Ryanair fleet is now over $18 billion.
Ryanair operates more than 1,400 flights per day from 44 bases and 1,100+ routes across 27 countries, connecting 160 destinations.
In this video, see inside the Boeing factory in Renton, Wash., and hear more about how Boeing builds Ryanair’s 737-800: http://bit.ly/f49Zc0.
Copyright Photo: Irish251. Boeing 737-8AS EI-ENZ (msn 40308) was accepted on February 25 and is pictured arriving at the DUB base the following day from Boeing Field.
Air India retires the Indian Airlines brand and codes
February 26, 2011
Indian Airlines Airbus A320-231 VT-ESB (msn 398) DXB (Konstantin von Wedelstaedt) (ends operations), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Air India (Mumbai) at midnight tonight retired the brand and codes of subsidiary Indian Airlines (Mumbai). This ends the history of Indian.
Copyright Photo: Konstantin von Wedelstaedt. Please click on the photo for the full story and history.
Kuwait Airways adds “50 Years” stickers to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Kuwait
February 26, 2011
Kuwait Airways Airbus A340-313 9K-ANA (msn 089) (50 Years stickers) LHR (James Mepsted), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Kuwait Airways (Kuwait City) is adding special “50 years” stickers.
Copyright Photo: James Mepsted. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Jazeera Airways posts a $7.15 million net profit in the second half of 2010
February 26, 2011
Jazeera Airways Airbus A320-214 F-WWBH (9K-CAI) (msn 3919) XFW (Gerd Beilfuss), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Jazeera Airways (Kuwait City) reversed course and posted a $7.15 million net profit in the second half of 2010.
In 2009, the young airline was forced to terminate its new hub at Dubai. Jazeera changed its business plan by concentrating on its Kuwait City hub. In the first half of 2010, this new plan proved unprofitable as the Kuwait hub suffered from overcapacity. However the company has now been able to produce a profit with this plan.
Interactive route map (place cursor over a city): CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Gerd Beilfuss. Please click on the photo for additional information.
N106US is coming back to Charlotte
February 26, 2011 — 1 Comment
US Airways Airbus A320-214 N106US (msn 1044) FLL (Dave Campbell) (coming back to Charlotte), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
The Carolinas Aviation Museum, located at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, announced that it has acquired the “Miracle on the Hudson” flight US 1549 Airbus A320-214 N106US airframe from Chartis. The airframe will be brought to Charlotte (its original destination) for display at the museum.
Copyright Photo: Dave Campbell. Please click on the photo for the full story.
V Australia arrives in Abu Dhabi
February 25, 2011
V Australia (Virgin Blue International Airlines) Boeing 777-3ZG ER VH-VPD (msn 37938) LAX (Ton Jochems), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
V Australia (Sydney) is now flying to Abu Dhabi. V Australia becomes the first Australian carrier to operate to the Middle East in 20 years.
Arriving at Abu Dhabi International Airport at 11.40pm GST on February 24, the Sydney – Abu Dhabi service included Virgin Blue Group CEO and Managing Director John Borghetti and Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan, along with the Australian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Doug Trappett, and Virgin Blue Group’s new ambassador and one of the world’s most successful swimmers, Ian Thorpe, who has come to Abu Dhabi to continue training for the 2012 Olympic trials.
The new V Australia Abu Dhabi service is a key part of the partnership between Virgin Blue Group of Airlines and Etihad Airways which will see the airlines offer a total of 27 weekly services between Abu Dhabi and Australia, including double-daily services between Abu Dhabi and Sydney, daily Melbourne-Abu Dhabi flights and six frequencies per week between Abu Dhabi and Brisbane.
The V Australia Abu Dhabi service will operate three times per week from Sydney from February 2011 and three Brisbane – Abu Dhabi services per week by February 2012, using its new fleet of three-class economically and environmentally efficient Boeing 777-300 ERs. VA 29 will fly from Sydney to Abu Dhabi on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, departing at 4:05 p.m. (1605) and VA 30 will fly from Abu Dhabi to Sydney on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, departing at 10:45 a.m. (1045).
Copyright Photo: Ton Jochems. Please click on the photo for additional information about V Australia.
SkyWest Airlines to start flying for Alaska Airlines on May 14
February 25, 2011
SkyWest Airlines (USA) Bombardier CRJ200 (CL-600-2B19) N953SW (msn 7813) SAN (James Helbock), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Alaska Airlines (Seattle/Tacoma) today (February 25) announced that SkyWest Airlines (St. George) will begin flying six West Coast routes currently operated by Horizon Air, starting on May 14. The Utah-based carrier will fly the routes using five 70-seat Bombardier CRJ700 regional jets it is acquiring from Horizon.
Alaska’s partnership with SkyWest for CRJ700 flying enables Horizon to fly the Bombardier Q400 turboprop exclusively and retire its last CRJ700s.
Summary of new roundtrip SkyWest flights operated on behalf of Alaska beginning May 14, 2011:
| Seattle to: | Daily roundtrips | |
| Fresno, Calif. | 1* | |
| Long Beach, Calif. | 2/4** | |
| Portland, Ore. | 1*** | |
| Santa Barbara, Calif. | 1 | |
| Portland to: | Daily roundtrips | |
| Burbank, Calif. | 3 | |
| Ontario, Calif. | 3 | |
|
*SkyWest will operate one daily flight to rotate the regional jets through its maintenance base in Fresno. Horizon Air will continue to offer one daily flight in this market, as well as a daily flight between Portland and Fresno. |
|
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**SkyWest will operate two flights per day starting May 14, and increase service to four flights a day beginning June 16, 2011. |
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*** SkyWest will operate one daily flight to position aircraft for maintenance. Horizon will continue to operate the Seattle-Portland shuttle with 22 roundtrips a day. |
|
A complete schedule of SkyWest operated flights is available atwww.alaskasworld.com/Newsroom/ASnews/ASstories/sw_sked_2-25-11.pdf.
Interactive Alaska Airlines route map: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: James Helbock. A CRJ200 in the house colors. Please click on the photo for full details.
IAG posts its first financial results
February 25, 2011
British Airways Boeing 737-436 G-DOCE (msn 25350) GVA (Paul Denton), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
International Airlines Group (IAG) (British Airways and Iberia) has posted its first financial results as a new airline group, producing a profit for 2010.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
IAG Profile:
“International Airlines Group is one of the world’s largest airline groups with 408 aircraft flying to 200 destinations and carrying more than 55 million passengers each year.
Formed in January 2011, IAG is the holding company of British Airways and Iberia. It is a Spanish registered company with shares traded on the London Stock Exchange and Spanish Stock Exchanges. The corporate head office for IAG is in London, UK.
IAG combines the two leading airlines in the UK and Spain, enabling them to enhance their presence in the aviation market while retaining their individual brands and current operations. The airlines’ customers benefit from a larger combined network for both passengers and cargo and a greater ability to invest in new products and services through improved financial robustness.
The airline industry is moving gradually towards consolidation though some regulatory restrictions still prevail. IAG’s mission is to play its full role in future industry consolidation both on a regional and global scale.
British Airways and Iberia are members of the oneworld alliance.”
Copyright Photo: Paul Denton. Please click on the photo for aircraft details.
Fly Guam takes delivery of its first aircraft, ready to start operations on March 2 to Hong Kong
February 25, 2011
Fly Guam (Sky King Airlines) Boeing 737-4Y0 N238AG (msn 23866) HNL (Ivan K. Nishimura/Blue Wave Group), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Fly Guam (Guam) is a new airline based at Guam’s Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport. The airline is now planning to launch operations on March 2 with this colorful Boeing 737-400.
Copyright Photo: Ivan K. Nishimura/Blue Wave Group. Please click on the photo for the full story and details.
The Boeing 767 will live on as the KC-46A tanker
February 25, 2011
The Boeing Company (Chicago, Seattle, Wichita and Charleston) has received a contract from the U.S. Air Force to build the next-generation aerial refueling tanker aircraft that will replace 179 of the service’s 400 KC-135 tankers.
The contract calls for Boeing to design, develop, manufacture and deliver 18 initial combat-ready tankers by 2017.
Based on the proven Boeing 767 commercial airplane, the KC-46A Tanker is a widebody, multi-mission aircraft updated with the latest and most advanced technology and capable of meeting or exceeding the Air Force’s needs for transport of fuel, cargo, passengers and patients. It includes state-of-the-art systems to meet the demanding mission requirements of the future, including a digital flight deck featuring Boeing 787 Dreamliner electronic displays and a flight control design philosophy that places aircrews in command rather than allowing computer software to limit combat maneuverability. The NewGen Tanker also features an advanced KC-10 boom with an expanded refueling envelope, increased fuel offload rate and fly-by-wire control system.
To learn more about the KC-46A Tanker, visit www.UnitedStatesTanker.com.
The FAA approves Southwest’s acquisition plan of AirTran Airways
February 24, 2011
AirTran Airways Boeing 717-231 N927AT (msn 55077) (Elton John) FLL (Jay Selman), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Southwest Airlines (Dallas) has announced today the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (Washington) has accepted Southwest’s transition plan to combine the operations of Southwest Airlines and AirTran Airways, following the financial close of its transaction to acquire AirTran. The acquisition is targeted for the second quarter of 2011.
Copyright Photo: Jay Selman. Please click on the photo for the full story.
Boeing 787-881 N7874 (ZA004) completes the 1,000th 787 program test flight
February 24, 2011
Boeing 787-881 N7874 (ZA004) (msn 40693) BFI (Rick Schlamp), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago, Seattle, Wichita and Charleston) announced today that the pictured 787-881 N7874 (msn 40693) Dreamliner, designated as ZA004, made the 1,000th 787 flight the previous day, marking another milestone in the flight test program. There are seven airplanes participating in flight testing. The landing of 787 flight test airplane ZA004 (above), just after 1 p.m. MST (1300) at Yuma International Airport, counted as the official 1,000th flight.
Copyright Photo: Rick Schlamp. Please click on the photo for further information on the test program.
Lufthansa considers an order for 30 Airbus A320neos
February 24, 2011
Lufthansa Airbus A320-211 D-AIQM (msn 268) (soccer nose) LHR (Antony J. Best), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Lufthansa (Frankfurt) is considering an order for 30 new Airbus A320neos according to Bloomberg.
Read the full story from Bloomberg: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Antony J. Best. Please click on the photo for background information on the new type.
Vueling Airlines records a net profit of $62 million in 2010
February 24, 2011
Vueling Airlines (Vueling.com) Airbus A320-214 EC-KKT (msn 3293) PMI (Ton Jochems), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Vueling Airlines (Vueling.com) (Barcelona) recorded a net profit of $62 million in 2010.
Read the full report from ATW: CLICK HERE
Interactive route map (put cursor over city): CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Ton Jochems. Please click on photo for additional information.
Iberia to launch the Madrid-Los Angeles route on March 28
February 24, 2011
Iberia-Lineas Aereas de Espana Airbus A340-642 EC-IZY (msn 604) MIA (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Iberia (Madrid) will launch the Madrid-Los Angeles route on March 28. Initially the new route will be operated four trips a week.
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on the photo for aircraft details.
Air France to be the first Airbus A380 operator at Washington Dulles
February 24, 2011
Air France Airbus A380-861 F-HPJB (msn 040) CDG (Christian Volpati), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Air France (Paris) will introduce the Airbus A380 on the Paris (CDG)-Washington (Dulles) route on June 6.
Copyright Photo: Christian Volpati. Please click on the photo for aircraft details.
Gol’s profit drops in the fourth quarter and 2010
February 24, 2011
Gol Transportes Aereos Boeing 737-76N PR-GOV (msn 28580) (100 Anos-100 Years) FLN (AirSpeed), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes S.A. (parent company of Gol Transportes Aereos and VARIG Linhas Areas 2nd) (Sao Paulo) reported a net profit of $129 million in the fourth quarter and $128.3 million for 2010.
Read the full report from Gol: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: AirSpeed. Please click on the photo for this special color scheme.
Delta Air Lines will restore the Los Angles-Miami route on June 9
February 24, 2011
Delta Air Lines Boeing 737-832 WL N3748Y (msn 30489) LAX (Michael B. Ing), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Delta Air Lines (Atlanta) will restore the Los Angeles-Miami route on June 9, replacing the Los Angeles-Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood route.
Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Please click on the photo for the aircraft details.
United Airlines repaints its first Boeing 747-400
February 23, 2011
United Airlines (Chicago) has repainted its first 374-seat Boeing 747-400 in the new (old Continental) livery. The repainting process takes about 16 days on a 747. First the old paint is removed, the metal is buffed and then repainted.
With the first 747-400 rebranding completed, United/Continental have now painted at least one of each of its mainline fleet types in the new United livery. The company has completed painting 309 mainline and regional aircraft, which is more than 20 percent of its total fleet. The ongoing visual rebranding of the company will accelerate in the months ahead, and customers will begin to see rebranded airport facilities and new advertising.
Top Copyright Photo: Mark Dubin. Boeing 747-422 N127UA (msn 28813) is pictured at the San Francisco base.
Bottom Copyright Photo: United Airlines.
SkyWest completes the acquisition of ExpressJet, reports financial results
February 23, 2011
ExpressJet Airlines Embraer ERJ 145XR (EMB-145XR) N17169 (msn 145844) BWI (Tony Storck), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
SkyWest, Inc. (St. George) reported operating revenues of $796.3 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2010, compared to $604.4 million for the same period last year. SkyWest also reported net income of $37.2 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, for the quarter ended December 31, 2010, compared to $19.5 million of net income, or $0.34 per diluted share, for the same period last year. The results for the quarter ended December 31, 2010, includes $10.2 million in net earnings, or $0.18 per diluted share, of unusual items when compared to the historical results for the same period last year and are further explained below.
SkyWest also reported operating revenues of $2.77 billion for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, compared to $2.61 billion for the same period last year. SkyWest reported net income of $96.4 million, or $1.70 per diluted share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, compared to $83.7 million or $1.47 per diluted share for the same period last year. The net income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, includes $10.2 million in net earnings, or $0.18 per diluted share, of unusual items when compared to the historical results for the same period last year and are further explained below.
The operating results reported above include the operating and financial results from the acquisition of ExpressJet from November 12, 2010 to December 31, 2010, or 50 days.
On November 12, 2010, SkyWest completed the acquisition of ExpressJet for a total cash purchase price of $136.5 million which includes the value of the shares previously owned by Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (Atlanta), SkyWest’s wholly owned subsidiary. As a result of the acquisition, ExpressJet became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Atlantic Southeast on November 12.
Copyright Photo: Tony Storck. Please click on the photo for additional information.
AirTran Airways increases service from Branson, MO
February 23, 2011 — 2 Comments
AirTran Airways Boeing 717-2BD N949AT (msn 55003) (Orlando Magic) BWI (Tony Storck), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (Orlando), and the Branson Airport today announced new nonstop service, beginning in May, to Branson, MO from Baltimore/Washington (starting on May 28), Chicago (Midway) (May 27) and Houston (Hobby) (May 26).
Service to BWI, MDW and HOU (all served by Southwest Airlines) is in anticipation of the upcoming merger with Southwest Airlines.
Branson Airport (IATA: BKG, ICAO: KBBG, FAA LID: BBG) is a public use airport located eight nautical miles (15 km) south-southeast of the central business district of Branson, a city in Taney County, Missouri, United States. It is privately owned by Branson Airport, LLC.
Although most U.S. airports use the same three-letter location identifier for the FAA and IATA, this airport is assigned BBG by the FAA and BKG by the IATA (which assigned BBG to Butaritari Atoll Airport in Butaritari, Kiribati.
The airport opened on May 11, 2009.
AirTran Airways Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Interactive route (put cursor over city): CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Tony Storck. Please click on the photo for additional details.
Republic Airways Holdings swings to the red in the fourth quarter and 2010
February 23, 2011
Republic Airways (Republic Airlines 2nd) Embraer ERJ 170-100SU N821MD (msn 17000042) FLL (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Republic Airways Holdings Inc. (Indianapolis) reported operating revenues of $649.8 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2010, a 2.0% increase, compared to $637.3 million for the same period last year. The increase in revenues is the result of higher unit revenues from the Company’s Frontier operations.
On a GAAP basis, the holding company reported a net loss of $1.3 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2010, compared to $20.1 million of net income, or $0.55 per diluted share, for the same period last year.
During the fourth quarter of 2010, the Company’s pre-tax loss of $3.0 million was negatively impacted by a total of $15.1 million of items: $14.5 million of fleet transition costs for A318 and Q400 aircraft, $2.5 million of expenses related to the integration of the branded business, offset by $1.9 million in benefits for fuel hedges.
Excluding the negative impact of the items during the quarter, the Company is reporting net income of $7.4 million and earnings per diluted share of $0.18 for the fourth quarter of 2010. Comparatively, the Company reported ex-item net income for the fourth quarter of 2009 of $2.1 million, or $0.06 per diluted share.
For the full year 2010, the holding company reported revenues of $2.7 billion compared to $1.6 billion for 2009. On a GAAP basis, the Company reported a net loss for 2010 of $13.8 million, or $0.38 per diluted share compared to net income of $39.7 million, or $1.13 per diluted share for the full year 2009.
Frontier Airways Holdings joins AMR Corporation as the only two large airline groups to lose money in the United States in 2010.
The operational fleet decreased from September 30, 2010 by two aircraft to 275 aircraft as of December 31, 2010. During the quarter, the Company removed one Airbus A318 aircraft and one Q400 aircraft from the fleet.
The total operational fleet as of December 31, 2010 was 275 aircraft, a reduction of 15 aircraft, compared to the 290 aircraft operated as of December 31, 2009.
The Company removed eight Q400 aircraft from its Frontier operations. Five were returned to the lessor, two were classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2010, and one has been subleased. Seven CRJ200 aircraft were returned to the lessor from the fixed-fee service with Continental Airlines. Four A318 aircraft were removed from our Frontier operation and sold or returned to the lessor. Two ERJ 145 aircraft were subleased offshore and one ERJ 170 was sold. Four Embraer ERJ 190 aircraft and three Airbus A320 aircraft were placed into our Frontier operation during the year.
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on the photo for background information on the holding company and aircraft operated.
Republic Airways Holdings’ Fixed-Fee Route Map (not including Frontier Airlines branded operations):
Allegiant Air to resume seasonal service between Shreveport and Sanford
February 23, 2011
Allegiant Air McDonnell Douglas DC-9-83 (MD-83) N865GA (msn 49998) (Travel is our deal) LAX (Brandon Farris) (revised colors), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Allegiant Air (Las Vegas) is resuming nonstop seasonal travel service between Shreveport, LA and Sanford International Airport (SFB) near Orlando. The seasonal service will begin on May 19.
The new flights will operate twice weekly between the Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) with service Thursday and Sunday. Flights will depart Shreveport at 4:25 p.m. (1625) arriving in Orlando-Sanford at 7:30 p.m. (1930). Flights leaving Orlando-Sanford will depart at 2:25 p.m. (1425) arriving in Shreveport at 3:45 p.m. (1545) (all flight times are local). The company began nonstop service to Las Vegas on January 18, 2006.
Copyright Photo: Brandon Farris. Please click on photo for additional details.
EgyptAir wants to lease out one third of its fleet
February 22, 2011
EgyptAir Airbus A330-243 SU-GCK (msn 726) (Star Alliance) LHR (Wingnut), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
EgyptAir (Cairo) due to recent political changes and loss of tourists, wants to lease out one third of its fleet due to the downturn in traffic according to this article by Flightglobal.
Read the full article: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Wingnut. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Camair-Co launches a more colorful livery on TJ-CAC
February 22, 2011 — 1 Comment
Camair co-Cameroon Airlines Corporation (Douala), the flag carrier replacement for defunct Cameroon Airlines, has repainted its first aircraft, a former Cameroon Airlines aircraft, into a more colorful livery. The new flag carrier will be launching operations in 2011.
Copyright Photo: Malcolm Nason. Ex-Cameroon Airlines Boeing 767-33A ER TJ-CAC (msn 28138) is pictured at Shannon now in a more colorful livery.
Compare with the previous color scheme: CLICK HERE
Continental Airlines launches Austin-Cancun flights
February 22, 2011
Continental Airlines (Houston) starting on February 19, 2011, inaugurated nonstop service from Austin to Cancun.
Continental’s weekly Austin-Cancun nonstop will be flown on a Boeing 737-700 with 112 in coach and 12 in first class.
Copyright Photo: Air 72. Crew, passengers and gate agents celebrate the launch of the inaugural flight at Austin.
American Eagle to offer seasonal DFW-Montrose summer service
February 22, 2011
American Eagle Airlines Embraer ERJ 140LR (EMB-135KL) N853AE (msn 145742) MIA (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
American Eagle Airlines (2nd) (Dallas/Fort Worth) has announced seasonal nonstop service from Montrose Regional Airport in Montrose, CO, to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, beginning on June 9 and operating through September 6. Eagle will fly two daily round trips with 44-seat Embraer ERJ 140 regional jet aircraft.
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on photo for additional aircraft information.
QANTAS Airways moves the Boeing 747-400 to the Sydney-Perth domestic route
February 21, 2011
QANTAS Airways Boeing 747-48E VH-OEB (msn 25778) (Come Play-Supporting Australia’s Bid for World Cup) SYD (John Adlard), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
QANTAS Airways (Sydney) is adding the Boeing 747-400 on the Sydney-Perth domestic route as a counter measure to offset the introduction on Airbus A330s on the route by Virgin Blue.
Read the full story by the International Business Times:
Copyright Photo: John Adlard. Please click on the photo for additional information.
SriLankan Airlines considers a switch to the Boeing 777
February 21, 2011
SriLankan Airlines Airbus A340-311 4R-ADA (msn 032) LHR (Keith Burton), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
SriLankan Airlines (Colombo) is considering a switch to the Boeing 777 as a possible replacement for its Airbus A340-300 fleet. However this may also be a bargaining ploy with Airbus.
Read the article in The Nation:
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton. Please click on the photo for background information on the SriLankan A340s.
Virgin Atlantic Airways is being coaxed to join the SkyTeam alliance
February 21, 2011
Virgin Atlantic Airways Airbus A340-313 G-VSUN (msn 114) LHR (Keith Burton), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is attracting new interest from Air France-KLM and Delta Air Lines as a possible new member of the SkyTeam alliance. Virgin has remained independent but the new British Airways-Iberia-American Airlines alliance has forced it to look at other options.
Read the full article by the Associated Press:
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton. Please click on the photo for aircraft information.
JAL introduces the “Samantha Thavasa” logojet
February 20, 2011
JAL-Japan Airlines Boeing 777-246 JA8983 (msn 27366) (Samantha Thavasa) HND (Shigeyoshi Sakaki), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
JAL-Japan Airlines (Tokyo) has introduced the “Samantha Thavasa” logojet on Boeing 777-246 JA8983 (msn 27366).
Copyright Photo: Shigeyoshi Sakaki. Please click on the photo for further details.
