Airlines News Page 119
United Continues Growth at San Francisco International Airport
United recently announced it will add 20 percent more flying out of San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in 2025, reflecting its long-term strategy to re-establish SFO as a global gateway. United is now larger in SFO than it was pre-pandemic, with capacity1 up six percent since 2019, and 20 percent versus last year.
Lufthansa deploys state-of-the-art A350 long-haul aircraft from Frankfurt
Lufthansa passengers can now fly from Frankfurt to a number of international destinations with the Airbus A350-900. Four of these state-of-the-art and efficient aircraft have been deployed from Frankfurt since the start of the summer flight schedule. Two more will be added in May and July. The aircraft have been in service on routes to Seoul and Shanghai since March 30. Denver will follow from May 1 and Seattle from July 1.
SAS unveils largest-ever summer expansion
Scandinavian Airlines is set to enhance connectivity across Scandinavia and beyond with the launch of its summer 2025 traffic program, further establishing Copenhagen Airport as its global hub. The extensive expansion brings the total to 278 routes for the season, strengthening SAS’ role in connecting Northern Europe to the world and providing travelers with more efficient and convenient travel options.
Finnair reclaims title of leading European airline to Japan by flights
Finnair, Finland’s flag carrier and oneworld alliance member, has reclaimed the title of leading European airline to Japan this summer, as it underscores its commitment to Asia. The Nordic airline, known for connecting Europe and the Far East, has taken off with its new summer schedule, which now offers customers 25 weekly flights between its home hub, Helsinki, and Japan - more than any other European carrier.
TAP RECONNECTS THE CITIES OF LISBON AND PORTO ALEGRE
TAP resumed flights to Porto Alegre, the capital of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, this Tuesday, 1 April. Flight TP117 left Lisbon at 14:20 and arrived at Porto Alegre-Salgado Filho International Airport at 21:45, thus resuming connections to Porto Alegre after the heavy rains of May 2024. TAP will connect Lisbon and Porto Alegre with three flights a week, operated with the modern A330-900 neo aircraft, with capacity for 298 passengers.
Ryanair’s Prime: a subscription, not a loyalty program – but why now?
Ryanair’s surprise launch of its “Prime” subscription last week isn’t a traditional loyalty program—it’s a paid membership model. For €79 annually (or £79 in the UK), travelers get reserved seats, travel insurance, and monthly fare discounts. But why introduce this now? What’s the strategy behind it? The move signals a shift in the airline’s approach, prioritizing upfront revenue and customer retention over traditional loyalty points. While the details of the program have caught attention, the real significance lies in Ryanair’s push to reshape how budget airlines interact with travelers.
New sunshine route to sub-Saharan Sal takes off!
easyJet and easyJet holidays have celebrated the launch of their first flights and package holidays from London Gatwick to the beautiful island of Sal in Cape Verde. easyJet’s first ever sub-Saharan service took off this morning for the first time and will operate every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday throughout the year, with package holidays available to a range of hotels.
BOC Aviation Orders 50 Boeing 737 MAX Jets to Support Global Airlines
Boeing and BOC Aviation have announced a new, firm order for 50 737-8 jets, expanding the lessor’s 737 MAX portfolio to 215 737-8s and 737-9s. BOC Aviation will increase its Boeing order book to 139 unfilled orders. BOC Aviation currently has 69 737 MAX airplanes on operating leases to more than 15 airlines worldwide.
Air Canada lines up for take-off with new Porto to Montréal route
Air Canada, Canada’s largest airline and flag carrier, is gearing up for take-off with its bumper summer schedule, including a new route between Porto and Montréal. The global airline is set to touchdown in Portugal’s second city, Porto, for the first time on 5 June 2025, before departing for its home hub, Montréal, later that same day.
Qatar Airways Group and Virgin Australia Receive Final Go-ahead
Qatar Airways Group and Virgin Australia have received final go-ahead from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for the airlines’ integrated alliance. This final determination officially signals the green light for Virgin Australia’s new 28 weekly flights between Australia and Doha – operated under a wet-lease with Qatar Airways – to proceed.
United Receives FAA Certification on Starlink Aircraft and Schedules First Commercial Flight for May
United have announced the FAA has approved its first Starlink-equipped aircraft type and that the first commercial flight is planned for May, less than eight months after the deal was first announced.
Airshare Named Official Private Aviation Provider of the PGA of America and 2025 Ryder Cup
The PGA of America and Airshare announced today a new multi-year partnership: Airshare will be the “Official Private Aviation Provider” of the PGA of America and the Ryder Cup in 2025 and 2029, as well as the PGA Championship and PGA National Club Championship through 2029. As part of the partnership, Airshare is also joining forces with the Southern California, South Florida, Metropolitan (New York) and Southwest PGA Sections in an effort to help promote golf in local communities.