The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released a comprehensive ten-year roadmap aimed at modernizing baggage handling processes in air travel, with a focus on improving operational efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience.The initiative, called the Global Baggage Roadmap, was developed in collaboration with airlines, airports, and other industry stakeholders. According to IATA, the project is designed to align baggage management with current demands by emphasizing digitalization, automation, and real-time traceability.The strategy is built around three core pillars: standardizing information exchange, automating baggage tracking, and improving bag recovery processes.For the first pillar, IATA highlights the need to replace legacy systems such as teletype messaging with modern, API-based technologies. This upgrade would enable faster baggage reconciliation, reduce errors, and improve responsiveness to disruptions. It could also save the industry an estimated $1 billion annually in teletype messaging costs.The second pillar focuses on introducing electronic bag tags, GPS tracking, and robotics to ensure baggage visibility throughout the journey. These technologies would allow passengers to track their luggage in real time, ensuring smoother connections and arrivals.The third pillar aims to streamline claims processing, prevent fraud, and enhance customer service, helping airlines resolve baggage issues more efficiently while bolstering security protocols.“Baggage matters to travelers. When they check in a bag, they expect it to arrive on time. And if it doesn’t, they want to know where it's,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s Director of Ground Operations. She cited recent surveys showing that 81% of travelers want improved baggage tracking, 74% expect real-time updates on their mobile phones, and 67% would be willing to use electronic bag tags.“This roadmap consolidates progress from past initiatives and provides a clear vision for where baggage processes need to be in ten years,” Mejstrikova added, emphasizing the need for collaboration across all sectors to deliver a more efficient and customer-focused service.The roadmap is part of IATA’s broader efforts to modernize ground operations, enhance safety, and improve the passenger journey. The association confirmed that it will work with industry stakeholders to develop implementation guidelines, provide training, and monitor progress throughout the plan's duration.

IATA Unveils 10-Year Global Baggage Roadmap to Boost Efficiency and Passenger Experience

Qatar Airways has completed the largest widebody aircraft purchase in its history, signing an agreement with Boeing for up to 210 aircraft, including 160 firm orders and 50 options. The transaction includes 130 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 30 777-9 units, marking the largest Dreamliner order in the U.S. manufacturer's history.Simultaneously, the airline signed the largest widebody engine acquisition in GE Aerospace's history, purchasing more than 400 engines, including 60 GE9X and 260 GEnx units, with additional options and spare parts. These engines will power the newly ordered Boeing 777-9 and 787 aircraft.Both agreements were announced during former U.S. President Donald Trump's visit with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="38654" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>According to the airline, the move aligns with its long-term growth strategy and the need for a modern, efficient fleet with lower emissions. "We are happy to announce our agreement with Boeing and our partnership in the largest widebody aircraft order in Boeing's history and the biggest aircraft order in our history," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer."This is a critical next step for Qatar Airways as we invest in the cleanest, youngest, and most efficient fleet in global aviation," Al-Meer added. He also noted that after two consecutive years of record-breaking performance, "we're not simply chasing scale; we're building strength that will allow us to continue to deliver our unmatched products and customer experiences."Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, stated they are "deeply honored that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing." She emphasized the efficiency and comfort of the 787 and 777 models.Regarding the engines, H. Lawrence Culp Jr., CEO of GE Aerospace, described it as "the largest widebody engine deal in our history" and praised the airline relationship. "Our GE9X and GEnx engines are marvels of modern engineering, with the durability and reliability to power long-haul flights," he said.Qatar Airways currently operates over 150 Boeing aircraft, including 777, 787, and 777 freighters. With this new purchase, the airline is set to become the largest Dreamliner operator in the Middle East, according to the company.Qatar Airways' Aircraft BacklogWith this new order, Qatar Airways' pending aircraft deliveries from Boeing double, surpassing 200 aircraft.According to data gathered by Aviacionline via Cirium Fleets Analyzer, Qatar Airways currently has in its backlog 60 Boeing 777-9, 34 777-8F, and 10 787-9 aircraft. Additionally, there are 50 options for the 777-9 and 16 for the 777-8.The Qatari airline also has 50 A321neo and 18 A350-1000 aircraft pending delivery from Airbus.

Qatar Airways Places Record Order for Boeing Dreamliners and GE Engines

IFS, a provider of enterprise cloud and industrial AI solutions, has introduced a new accelerator service aimed at helping organizations transition from SAP systems to IFS Cloud.The company states that the move responds to growing demand from businesses seeking to modernize their IT environments and move away from monolithic legacy architectures. According to IFS, the accelerator offers a low-risk migration strategy that allows companies to diversify vendors and adopt a multi-platform, composable digital ecosystem.The new service is designed for fast, secure integration with minimal operational disruption. It includes unified data management, structured migration, and continuous system optimization. IFS claims the accelerator builds on experience from previous successful implementations and enables faster cloud adoption while reducing costs and deployment times."IFS has already helped hundreds of companies migrate all or part of their technology estate from legacy vendors to IFS Cloud" said Max Roberts, Chief Operating Officer at IFS. “Executives at the world’s largest organizations are rethinking their technology approach. By leveraging IFS.ai through IFS Cloud, businesses can automate workflows and integrate AI into their operations, significantly improving efficiency and reducing costs.” he added.A recent IDC study cited by the company found that IFS customers achieve a 414% three-year ROI and an average 11-month payback period after implementing IFS Cloud. Additionally, the accelerator includes industry-specific services tailored for aerospace and defense, energy and utilities, engineering and construction, manufacturing, telecommunications, and services.IFS states the accelerator is designed to expand compatibility with more platforms, supporting a resilient and future-ready infrastructure.

New IFS tool helps SAP users switch to IFS Cloud with industrial AI

After a long suspension period, LATAM Ecuador has confirmed it will resume its direct route between Guayaquil and New York (JFK) starting December 1, 2025, reestablishing a vital connection between Ecuador and the United States.According to the flight schedule, the route will be operated using Airbus A320neo aircraft, configured to carry 174 passengers—12 in Premium Economy and the rest in Economy Class. The daily operation will provide an estimated capacity of 2,436 seats per week in both directions.With this relaunch, LATAM Ecuador aims to re-enter a market currently dominated by Avianca and JetBlue, the two airlines that have maintained continuous service on the route.Avianca operates up to nine weekly flights, also using A320neo aircraft, offering more than 3,200 seats per week.JetBlue, meanwhile, maintains a more intensive presence, operating up to two daily flights during peak demand periods with its Airbus A321neo fleet.LATAM’s return comes at a time when demand for flights between Ecuador and the U.S. continues to recover, following the pandemic and shifts in migration and commercial dynamics. The airline previously operated this route but suspended it in 2019 as part of a reorganization of its international network.In addition to enhancing connectivity between the two cities, LATAM’s operations at JFK’s Terminal 4—where its strategic partner Delta Air Lines also operates—will allow for seamless connections to other destinations across North America.This announcement is part of LATAM Group’s regional strategy to strengthen point-to-point routes, focusing on demand-driven network adjustments and the deployment of next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft.

LATAM Ecuador to resume Guayaquil–New York route in December 2025

Air Europa, the airline of Spanish tourism group Globalia, launched a new direct route between Madrid and Istanbul on Monday, May 12, aiming to strengthen its position as a strategic connector between Asia and Latin America.This move makes Air Europa the only Spanish airline to operate this non-stop connection, on a route previously dominated by Turkish carriers such as Turkish Airlines and Pegasus.The new service begins with four weekly flights—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays— with plans to gradually increase frequency until reaching daily round-trip flights by July.This new route is integrated into the long-haul hub operated by Air Europa at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, with flight schedules strategically designed to ensure smooth connections with overnight flights to Latin America—one of the airline’s key markets.Flights between Madrid and Istanbul will be operated with Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Air Europa’s fleet includes 28 Boeing 787s out of a total of 54 aircraft, complemented by Boeing 737s for short- and medium-haul routes. In 2024, the airline strengthened its long-haul strategy by adding three new Dreamliners, enabling it to offer 3.5 million intercontinental seats this year.<h3>Strategic expansion in Latin America</h3>The new Istanbul route comes amid Air Europa’s ongoing long-haul expansion, particularly in Latin America, where it maintains a strong presence. In 2024, the airline carried 12.2 million passengers to more than 50 international destinations.From mid-June through September, the airline will boost several high-demand routes with daily flights to destinations such as:• Medellín (Colombia) • Asunción (Paraguay) • Havana (Cuba) • PanamaIt will also increase frequencies to: • Cancún and Punta Cana (from 4–5 to 5 weekly) • New York, which will rise from 5 to 7 weekly flights during the summerThese additions join existing daily flights to Bogotá, Buenos Aires, São Paulo, Lima, Miami, and Santo Domingo, highlighting a clear strategy to enhance transatlantic connectivity.<h3>Istanbul: gateway to Asia</h3>With this move, Air Europa aims to attract not only European and Latin American traffic but also to position itself as a key link in the flow between Asia and the Americas. Istanbul, thanks to its strategic geographic location and growing role as a hub for Euro-Asian air traffic, becomes a central component in attracting passengers from Central Asia, the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Southeast Asia seeking to connect with Latin America via Madrid.This strategy aligns with the hub-and-spoke model that Air Europa has been developing from its Madrid base, boosting its competitiveness against major global carriers and positioning the Spanish capital as a key intercontinental connection point between the three continents.

Air Europa inaugurates a direct route between Madrid and Istanbul

Delta Air Lines and Korean Air announced their decision to deepen ties with Canadian carrier WestJet by acquiring minority equity stakes totaling 25% in the airline. The shares will be purchased from Onex Partners, the mid-to-large-cap private equity platform of Onex, a Canadian alternative asset manager and investor.Onex-affiliated funds and co-investors plan to participate in the sale alongside Onex Partners. The transactions build on each airline’s existing partnerships with WestJet, aiming to deliver greater benefits for customers across North America, Europe, Asia, and other global regions.According to agreements disclosed on May 9, 2025, Delta Air Lines will invest USD 330 million for a 15% stake in WestJet, while Korean Air will invest USD 220 million for a 10% stake.Following the deal, Delta has the right and intention to transfer a 2.3% stake in WestJet to its joint venture partner Air France-KLM—also an existing WestJet partner—for USD 50 million, subject to certain approvals by Air France-KLM. Onex Group will remain the majority owner and retain control of WestJet, which is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta.Delta and Korean Air have both maintained codeshare agreements with WestJet for several years. The expansion of these partnerships is expected to offer significant benefits for travelers, including an enhanced and seamless global travel experience.<blockquote>Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta, stated: “Investing in a world-class partner like WestJet aligns our interests and ensures we stay focused on providing a premier global network and customer experience for travelers in the U.S. and Canada.” He added: “Together, Delta and our partner airlines connect the world and are transforming the future of travel.”</blockquote>Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air and Hanjin Group, expressed: “We are pleased to invest in WestJet as part of our continued commitment to enhancing transpacific connectivity.” He noted that the strategic partnership will strengthen their global network and create long-term value for customers through improved options and convenience.<blockquote>From Onex Partners, Co-Head Tawfiq Popatia commented: “Delta, Korean, and Air France-KLM are among the world’s most prominent and best-run airlines. Onex is delighted to welcome them as shareholders in WestJet.”</blockquote><blockquote>Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of WestJet, said: “These investments—and the enhanced partnerships they bring—are a vote of confidence in our people and WestJet’s standout performance during a remarkable period for aviation in recent years.”</blockquote>Delta’s relationship with WestJet dates back to February 2011, and the U.S. carrier has invested in several international partners, including Air France-KLM, LATAM, Aeroméxico, Virgin Atlantic, China Eastern, and Korean Air’s parent company, Hanjin KAL.Korean Air and WestJet have cooperated since June 2012. Their codeshare agreement provides seamless access for passengers across the Pacific, connecting Seoul Incheon with Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, and offering onward connections via WestJet’s domestic network in Canada and the U.S., as well as through Korean Air’s extensive Asian network.

Delta and Korean Air to Acquire Stakes in WestJet, Deepening Strategic Partnerships

LATAM Airlines begins a strong expansion in Argentina, launching new international routes to Brazil, Chile, Peru, and the United States. According to the company, these additions represent a 27% increase in its operations compared to the previous year.Among the highlights is the resumption of the direct connection between Córdoba and São Paulo, starting October 26 with daily service. This route will allow passengers to access over 60 destinations within Brazil and about 20 international cities, thanks to connections through the Guarulhos hub. Córdoba will thus be linked to LATAM’s three regional hubs in Chile, Peru, and Brazil.Rosario will also regain its connection to São Paulo as of December 30, with four weekly flights, while Buenos Aires (Ezeiza) will once again offer daily flights to Florianópolis between January and February 2026, as part of the summer seasonal schedule.Additionally, the route between Rio de Janeiro and Ezeiza, initially scheduled to run until August 2025, will be extended through March 2026. It will operate five weekly flights between September and October, increasing to 12 weekly flights during the peak season.LATAM Airlines Peru will also resume operations in Tucumán in December, with three weekly flights to Lima. The company notes that this route will give passengers in Tucumán access to over 32 international destinations and 17 domestic ones in Peru.Also returning is the seasonal route between Bariloche and Santiago de Chile, starting December 4, with three weekly flights, enhancing tourism flow between Argentine Patagonia and Chile.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/05/asi_quedaran_las_rutas_de_latam_airlines_en_argentina_en_verde_las_anunciadas_hoy.gif" alt="Así quedarán las rutas de LATAM Airlines en Argentina (en verde, las anunciadas hoy)"><figcaption>LATAM Airlines routes in Argentina (in green, new routes announced today)</figcaption></figure><h2>The cherry on top: Miami</h2>While all routes are significant, the most anticipated by the market is LATAM Airlines’ return to the Buenos Aires – Miami route, made possible under the fifth freedom of air traffic, as the flight originates in Santiago, Chile.The inaugural flight is scheduled for December 1 and will operate daily with Boeing 787 aircraft, with an expected potential of 170,000 passengers per year.“We are very happy to launch this important route for our customers,” said Florencia Scardaccione, LATAM’s Commercial Manager in Argentina. “We know Miami is one of the favorite destinations for Argentinians, and this new direct flight will allow them to reach it faster and more efficiently, without having to connect through other countries,” she added.Flight LA542 will depart daily from Santiago at 7:15 AM and arrive in Ezeiza at 9:15 AM, continuing to Miami at 10:55 AM to land at 5:50 PM.In the reverse direction, flight LA543 will depart from Miami at 10:15 PM and arrive in Ezeiza at 8:55 AM the next day, departing again at 10:55 AM to arrive in Santiago at 1:10 PM.The Santiago – Buenos Aires – Miami route will be operated with Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft, with capacities of 271 seats (20 in Business, 251 in Economy) and 300 seats (30 in Business, 270 in Economy), respectively.LATAM noted that some flights will be operated with 787 aircraft featuring modernized cabins, including Recaro R7 Suites in Premium Business, the first of their kind in South America, as well as Economy Plus, offering more space and greater seat recline.With LATAM entering the Buenos Aires – Miami route, there will be up to eight daily flights between the two cities during the summer, split between American Airlines (four), Aerolíneas Argentinas (three), and LATAM (one)—resulting in nearly 15,000 seats offered daily in each direction.

LATAM Airlines Kicks Off Major Argentina Expansion with Miami Flight and Six New Routes

Norse Atlantic Airways has completed a wet lease agreement with Indian carrier IndiGo, adding two more Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to the contract initially outlined in a letter of intent published on November 29, 2024. This brings the total number of aircraft under the agreement to six.According to Norse Atlantic, the agreement secures additional long-term fixed revenues and aims to mitigate market risk. The arrangement aligns with the company’s strategy to maximize fleet utilization by balancing demand from both its scheduled network and ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations."This agreement represents an important milestone in our collaboration with IndiGo and reinforces our partnership with one of the world's leading airlines" said Bjørn Tore Larsen, CEO and founder of Norse Atlantic Airways. "The wet lease agreement for a total of six aircraft further strengthens our strategic and financial position in a volatile market".The two additional aircraft are expected to enter into service by early 2026, operating long-haul routes from India. The initial lease term is six months, with the possibility of extension up to 18 months, pending regulatory approvals. Both airlines have expressed interest in exploring further extensions, subject to clearance by authorities.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="36650" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>One of the Dreamliners has already been delivered and is flying IndiGo’s Delhi–Bangkok route.Norse Atlantic stated that the commercial terms for the additional two aircraft remain consistent with those previously disclosed.IndiGo, India’s largest airline by passenger volume and fleet size, continues to push into the long-haul segment. In fiscal year 2025, the carrier transported over 118 million passengers. While its core operations are focused on domestic and short to medium-haul regional routes, IndiGo has firmed an order for 30 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, with options for an additional 70, slated for delivery starting in 2027.The company had announced in March its intention to reach Western Europe by flying to Manchester and Amsterdam starting in July, but so far, ticket sales for these flights have not been launched.

Norse Atlantic cashes in on IndiGo’s long-haul push with two more 787-9 Dreamliners on wet lease

Gol Linhas Aéreas continues to move forward with its Chapter 11 restructuring process in the United States, aiming to conclude proceedings by the end of June. In its latest development, the airline reached an agreement with a group of senior secured bondholders maturing in 2026, unlocking an additional US$ 125 million in new funding, which complements the US$ 1.25 billion previously committed by Castlelake and Elliott Management.The agreement marks a significant milestone in the company’s financial restructuring, which began in early 2024, providing the liquidity needed to sustain operations and reshape its capital structure.Gol will now update its reorganization plan to incorporate the new terms, including a provision to offer up to US$ 100 million in new non-convertible debt to creditors outside the main investor group. In addition, remaining bondholders will have the opportunity to subscribe to an additional US$ 50 million of financing under the same conditions.As part of its broader recovery strategy, Gol intends to convert up to US$ 1.7 billion of debt into equity and settle approximately US$ 850 million in liabilities, a move that will result in significant dilution of its current shareholder base, though existing investors will retain their preemptive rights.This development takes place alongside the consolidation of Abra Group Limited, a UK-based private holding company that controls both Gol and Colombia’s Avianca. While both airlines will continue to operate independently, the shared corporate structure allows for strategic coordination and restructuring efficiencies, without altering their respective brand identities.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="37858" data-title="You might be interested"></section>Gol filed for Chapter 11 protection in early 2024 to reorganize its debt with international creditors, maintain operational continuity, and execute its transformation plan amid ongoing challenges in the Latin American airline sector.With this additional funding secured, the airline expects to emerge from Chapter 11 by the end of the second quarter of the year, laying the groundwork for a new phase in its business strategy.

Gol secures new financing and updates restructuring plan ahead of Chapter 11 exit in June

Qatar Airways is reportedly close to placing a mega order for wide-body aircraft with Boeing. According to a Bloomberg report, which cites sources familiar with the matter, the purchase would include 100 aircraft, plus options for 100 more.Confirmation of the deal is expected next week, coinciding with the visit of U.S. President Donald Trump to the Middle East. This has prompted regional airlines to expedite negotiations to secure agreements ahead of his arrival.If both the order and quantities are confirmed, Boeing’s backlog with Qatar Airways would double, exceeding 200 aircraft.Currently, based on data compiled by Aviacionline via Cirium Fleets Analyzer, Qatar Airways has on order 60 Boeing 777-9, 34 777-8F, and 10 787-9, offering a potential preview of how the new order of 100 aircraft (plus options for 100 more) might be split. In addition, the airline holds 50 options for the 777-9 and 16 for the 777-8.The Qatari carrier also has 50 Airbus A321neo and 18 A350-1000 still pending delivery from Airbus.<h3>Breakdown of Qatar Airways' fleet</h3>As of this publication, Qatar Airways’ active fleet comprises 248 aircraft, with an average age of 9.6 years:<ul><li>57 Boeing 777-300ER</li><li>34 Airbus A350-900</li><li>31 Boeing 787-8</li><li>28 Boeing 777-200LRF</li><li>27 Airbus A320</li><li>24 Airbus A350-1000</li><li>20 Boeing 787-9</li><li>8 Airbus A330-300E</li><li>8 Airbus A80</li><li>7 Boeing 777-200LR</li><li>3 Airbus A330-200E</li><li>1 Boeing 737 MAX 8</li></ul>

Qatar Airways close to placing massive wide-body aircraft order with Boeing

Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG), a global aircraft asset management company, has signed a definitive agreement with Avolon Aerospace Leasing Limited to acquire a portfolio of 20 aircraft.The deal includes 16 narrow-body and 4 wide-body aircraft. Among the narrow-body jets, 12 are next-generation models, and all four wide-body aircraft also belong to the newer, more fuel-efficient category.The fleet has an average age of approximately 4.1 years and an average remaining lease term of about 8.4 years. These aircraft are currently operated by 17 airlines across 16 different countries. As part of this transaction, ACG will add six new airline customers to its client base.Thomas Baker, CEO and President of ACG, stated: “These aircraft are a strong complement to our existing portfolio.” He added: “This acquisition—executed with a trusted partner like Avolon—reflects ACG’s strategic focus on growth, our commitment to investing in fuel-efficient next-generation aircraft, and our ability to transact at scale.” Baker also noted that “ACG will continue to seek scalable investment opportunities as we accelerate our growth momentum.”From Avolon’s side, Ross O’Connor, CFO, expressed satisfaction with strengthening ties with ACG through this 20-aircraft portfolio transaction. “ACG has demonstrated its proven capability to transact at scale, and we look forward to working closely together to complete the aircraft transfers in the coming months,” said O’Connor.This transaction allows ACG to expand its portfolio with relatively young assets tied to long-term lease agreements, while also diversifying its geographic and customer exposure.

ACG Acquires 20-Aircraft Portfolio from Avolon, Expanding Global Leasing Reach

Mexican carrier Volaris has confirmed it is just days away from finalizing a codeshare agreement with Copa Airlines, a move aimed at strengthening its regional presence and expanding its destination portfolio beyond the domestic market.According to Holger Blankenstein, Volaris’ Executive Vice President, as quoted by <a href="https://www.flightglobal.com/strategy/volaris-and-copa-close-to-completing-codeshare/162777.article">FlightGlobal</a>, the agreement is expected to be signed by the end of April. This strategic partnership will connect Copa Airlines’ extensive route network, centered around its hub in Panama City, with Volaris’ broad domestic footprint, which includes more than 40 destinations across Mexico.The joint operation would allow Copa passengers easier access to secondary Mexican cities, beyond the country’s main urban centers. At the same time, Volaris customers would gain seamless connections to Central America, South America, and the Caribbean through Copa’s well-established trunk routes—among the most comprehensive in the region.Currently, Copa Airlines serves Mexico with 37 weekly flights to Cancún, 42 to Mexico City, 5 to Guadalajara, and 4 to Monterrey. Volaris, including its subsidiaries in Costa Rica and El Salvador, operates regional services to Bogotá, Guatemala City, Lima, San Salvador, San Pedro Sula, and San José, Costa Rica, with around 140 weekly flights.This agreement marks another step in Volaris’ strategy to grow international alliances. The airline already maintains similar partnerships with Frontier Airlines in the U.S. and Iberia in Europe, providing connectivity and shared operations in key markets. The Iberia agreement, in place since 2024, allows travelers to reach 25 Mexican cities via connections through Mexico City.The timing of the alliance also comes as Volaris faces a challenging financial environment. The airline posted a net loss of $51 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to a $33 million profit in the same period last year. Quarterly revenue fell by 12% to $645 million, reflecting a dip in demand in the VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) travel segment between the U.S. and Central America—one of its key markets.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="28194" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>Nevertheless, the airline has assured that its current operations in Central America will remain unaffected, and that flights in the region will continue as normal. From a commercial standpoint, the partnership with Copa offers access to new markets without the need to significantly expand its fleet or launch new routes independently.The codeshare agreement is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to take effect in the coming weeks, once the necessary administrative and technical procedures are completed.

Volaris Nears Codeshare Agreement with Copa Airlines to Expand Regional Reach

Voepass Linhas Aéreas announced on Wednesday that it has filed a bankruptcy protection request in a bid to reorganize its financial obligations and reinforce its capital structure. The filing was submitted Tuesday to the São Paulo State Court, which confirmed receipt of the request.“In light of the challenges the company has faced in recent months, this was the only way to execute a comprehensive restructuring and ensure that Voepass can once again provide essential air service for Brazil’s development,” said José Luiz Felício Filho, CEO of Voepass Linhas Aéreas, in a statement.This marks the airline’s second bankruptcy filing, following a previous request between 2012 and 2017. During that period, Voepass claims to have stabilized its operations and finances, transporting over 2.7 million passengers in the last three years, according to affiliate outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/voepass-entra-com-pedido-de-recuperacao-judicial-e-culpa-latam-e-suspensao-da-anac-por-crise/?amp">Aeroin</a>.“If the court grants the new bankruptcy protection request, all of Voepass's liabilities will be frozen and renegotiated based on a detailed plan to be developed to address creditor needs,” the company explained.In its statement, Voepass described the move as a “continuation of the financial restructuring process” that began in February this year, with the goal of ensuring financial sustainability and maintaining its mission of connecting Brazil’s interior regions with major aviation hubs.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="38084,37359" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>The current filing does not cover compensation claims related to the August 2024 crash in Vinhedo, São Paulo state, which resulted in 62 fatalities. The airline emphasized that these claims are being handled directly by its insurance provider.Voepass also highlighted the challenging landscape facing regional aviation in Brazil, marked by shrinking access to air travel in the country’s interior.<h3>Operations Suspended</h3>Since early March, Voepass operations have been suspended by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) due to regulatory noncompliance. As a result, the airline is prohibited from operating any flights.“The suspension will remain in effect until the company corrects nonconformities in its management systems as outlined in the regulations,” ANAC stated.In response, Voepass said it is committed to resuming operations as soon as possible: “Since receiving ANAC’s notification in March, Voepass has cooperated fully and transparently with the regulator, providing all required technical and operational documentation, with a focus on safety and resuming service promptly.”<h3>LATAM's Role in Voepass Crisis</h3>In its court filing, Voepass also named LATAM as one of the contributors to its financial difficulties. The two airlines had a codeshare agreement, allowing them to sell tickets for each other's flights.Despite some positive negotiations, Voepass claimed it was blindsided by ANAC’s indefinite flight suspension, which further exacerbated its already fragile financial situation. The company alleges that breaches of contract by LATAM and its interference in Voepass’s operations hindered cash flow and led to mounting liabilities.LATAM Brasil, for its part, stated that it ended the commercial partnership primarily due to the crash of Voepass Flight 2283 on August 9, 2024, and noted that Voepass no longer holds a valid Air Operator Certificate (COA) due to the ANAC suspension. LATAM said this restriction justifies the termination of the partnership, as it prevents Voepass from conducting passenger operations.

Voepass Files for Bankruptcy Protection Amid Operational Suspension and Financial Strain

Lufthansa is considering registering its highly anticipated Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft in Switzerland as a way to circumvent the ongoing tariff dispute between the United States and the European Union.The move comes amid difficulties the German airline faces in importing aircraft directly to Germany due to retaliatory tariffs imposed during the trade conflict that began under former U.S. President Donald Trump.According to aeroTELEGRAPH, Lufthansa—awaiting the arrival of its new Dreamliners—should have already received some of the 15 Boeing 787-9s it has on order, as reported by our partner outlet, <a href="https://aeroin.net/para-driblar-tarifas-dos-eua-lufthansa-estuda-registrar-novos-boeing-787-na-suica/?amp">Aeroin</a>.These aircraft, currently stored in Charleston, South Carolina, have not yet been delivered due to delays in certifying the newly acquired seats Lufthansa plans to install. Despite this, the airline had initially intended to deploy the planes on medium-haul routes starting in the European summer.However, the potential imposition of tariffs of up to 200% on aircraft entering the European Union has forced the group to reconsider its logistical strategy. Switzerland, which is not an EU member and has not imposed retaliatory tariffs on the U.S., has emerged as a strategic alternative. By initially registering the aircraft in Switzerland, the group could significantly cut down on import costs.This strategy would leverage the multinational structure of the Lufthansa Group, which already operates in various countries and holds stakes in non-German airlines such as ITA Airways, and potentially Air Europa and TAP. The group's legal and geographical diversity may thus become an operational advantage in times of trade uncertainty.Lufthansa has not officially confirmed whether it will adopt the Swiss registration route, but German media reports that the option is under serious internal review. If viable, the Dreamliners could later be re-registered in Germany once integrated into the active fleet.This scenario highlights how the global nature of commercial aviation demands not only efficient logistics but also geopolitical and legal agility to maintain competitiveness.

Lufthansa would register new Boeing 787s in Switzerland to avoid Trump’s tariffs

During his visit to Chile in January 2018, Pope Francis left a mark not only on the spiritual and political landscape, but also on Chilean aviation, as he flew across the country on board a specially prepared LATAM Airlines Airbus A321 that hosted both official duties and a unique airborne ceremony.While his arrival in Chile was via an Alitalia-operated long-haul flight, the domestic segments of the tour were entrusted to LATAM’s A321, registered CC-BEK. The aircraft featured special decals, including the papal crest and the official visit hashtag #ElVueloDeFrancisco, marking it as the Pope’s temporary airborne base.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/04/ei_dbl_boeing_777_243er_alitalia.jpg" alt="EI-DBL - Boeing 777-243ER - Alitalia"><figcaption>EI-DBL - Boeing 777-243ER - Alitalia</figcaption></figure><section class="noteSuggested" data-id="38208" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>On January 17, Francis flew from Santiago to Temuco on flight LAN1247, departing at 08:04 and landing just over an hour later at La Araucanía Airport. In a move highlighting the security protocols for such a visit, the flight was escorted by the Chilean Air Force (FACh) with a Boeing 737 and a KC-135E.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/04/cc_bek_airbus_a321_211sl_latam_airlines_1.jpg" alt="CC-BEK - Airbus A321-211SL - LATAM Airlines"><figcaption>CC-BEK - Airbus A321-211SL - LATAM Airlines</figcaption></figure>That same afternoon, the Pope returned to Santiago on the same aircraft. On January 18, the tour continued to Iquique, again using the A321 CC-BEK. It was on this flight that a historic event took place: Pope Francis performed a mid-air wedding for two LATAM flight attendants, Paula Podest and Carlos Ciuffardi, who had previously held a civil ceremony but had postponed their religious marriage due to the 2010 earthquake. The wedding certificate was drafted and signed on board, with LATAM CEO Ignacio Cueto acting as witness.<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:100%;"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/04/paula_podest_carlos_ciuffardi_ignacio_cueto_papa_francisco.webp" alt="Paula Podest - Carlos Ciuffardi - Ignacio Cueto - Papa Francisco"><figcaption>Paula Podest - Carlos Ciuffardi - Ignacio Cueto - Papa Francisco. &nbsp;Photo: Reuters</figcaption></figure>After the Iquique events, the Pope continued his trip to Lima, Peru, again aboard the same LATAM aircraft.Beyond the speeches and meetings, Francis’ visit left behind a rare aviation footprint, showcasing LATAM’s capacity to operate VIP and protocol-intensive flights, and the Chilean Air Force’s involvement in high-profile missions. The A321 remained in regular commercial service after the visit, but its role as the official aircraft of the first papal visit to Chile in over 30 years has given it a special place in the country's aviation history.And another noteworthy point. LATAM became the airline that has transported a Pope on more than two occasions outside of Alitalia or ITA operations. In 1987, the then Chilean National Airline (LAN Chile) carried Pope John Paul II throughout the country using a Boeing 737-200Adv., and for his departure from Antofagasta to Aeroparque Argentina aboard a Boeing 767-200ER.<figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://youtu.be/TEZGHb_Jkfk"><div style="position: relative; padding-bottom: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TEZGHb_Jkfk" style="position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 100%; top: 0; left: 0;" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div></div></figure>&nbsp;

Francis’ flight: how the Pope’s 2018 visit to Chile also marked aviation history

The Pakistani government is preparing to launch a renewed effort to privatize its national airline, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), announcing that it will seek "expressions of interest" (EOIs) for the sale of a majority stake. The move follows a failed previous attempt and comes after a strategic decision to clean up the airline’s balance sheet by absorbing much of its substantial legacy debt.According to the Ministry of Privatization, the Privatization Commission has formally approved the prequalification criteria for potential bidders, aiming to sell between 51% and 100% of PIA's equity, including management control.The privatization of PIA is a key part of broader economic reforms demanded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under a $7 billion assistance program. Pakistan is working to reform or offload state-owned enterprises that, like PIA for decades, have been persistent drains on public resources. The airline, described as “heavily indebted,” has required repeated government bailouts over the years.The announcement comes alongside recent reports (early April 2025) that PIA posted its first annual profit in more than two decades—a positive milestone, though one that must be viewed within the broader context of deep structural and financial changes underway.<h3>Learning from past failures</h3>A previous privatization attempt in October 2024 failed dramatically. Only one consortium, Blue World City (BWC), submitted a bid—offering just $36 million for a 60% stake, far below the government’s expected minimum valuation of around $306 million.One of the key obstacles cited by interested parties at the time was PIA’s overwhelming legacy debt, which exceeded $2.9 billion. To make the offer more appealing this time, the Pakistani government has transferred “nearly all” of this debt to the state’s accounts, effectively separating it from the operating entity being offered for sale.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="34413,32247" data-title="Puede interesarte"></section>Once a benchmark for Asian aviation, Pakistan International Airlines has endured decades of turmoil, including allegations of mismanagement, overstaffing, an aging fleet, and intense regional competition. Operational and safety issues even led to flight bans in key regions such as Europe and the U.S.—though the EU ban was lifted in late 2024, allowing PIA to resume some European routes in January 2025.Still, economic pressures and commitments to the IMF have created renewed urgency for the sale. With its debt burden now offloaded, this fresh bidding process marks a pivotal moment for the future of Pakistan International Airlines. Some reports suggest the full privatization timeline could extend through December 2025.

Here we go again: Pakistan absorbs PIA’s debt and seeks bids for privatization

On February 26, 2013, he left Buenos Aires on an Alitalia flight bound for Rome, unaware that he would never return to his homeland—destiny had reserved a place for him in world history.According to local media, a friend who delivered the newspaper to him every day asked if he should suspend the delivery. Bergoglio replied, “No, I’ll be back in a week.”It is also said that he could have traveled in First Class on the Alitalia Boeing 777-200 that took him to Rome, as an acquaintance had offered to pay for it, but he declined and flew in Economy.Since becoming Pope Francis on March 13, 2013, the closest he ever got to Argentina was 10,000 meters above it, and only twice: the first on July 10, 2015, when he flew over northern Argentina en route from Santa Cruz de la Sierra to Asunción, Paraguay, aboard an Airbus A330-200, registration EI-EJL; the second on January 15, 2018, aboard an Alitalia Boeing 777-200, registration EI-DBL, en route from Rome to Santiago de Chile, as part of a tour that also included Peru.Although it is customary for the Pope to send telegrams to the countries he flies over as a gesture of diplomatic courtesy, in Francis' case—as the first non-European Pope in 12 centuries (and the first from the Americas)—these messages carried a deeper symbolic meaning for Argentinians, especially with expressions like “beloved Argentine homeland” or “the people of my homeland.”These were the two telegrams sent during those flyovers:To Cristina Fernández:As I fly over the beloved Argentine homeland to begin my pastoral visit to Paraguay, I am pleased to send cordial greetings to Your Excellency, expressing my closeness and affection to this dear nation. I pray to the Lord for abundant blessings to help it advance in human and spiritual values, and strengthen its commitment to justice and peace. —Francis<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/04/mensaje_del_papa_francisco_al_sobrevolar_argentina_el_10jul2015.jpg" alt="Mensaje del Papa Francisco al sobrevolar Argentina el 10JUL2015"><figcaption>Message from Pope Francis while flying over Argentina on July 10, 2015</figcaption></figure>To Mauricio Macri:“As I fly over Argentinian airspace, I extend to you my warm greetings and I send heartfelt best wishes to all the people of my homeland, assuring them of my closeness and blessing. I ask everyone, please, don’t forget to pray for me.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/04/mensaje_del_papa_francisco_al_sobrevolar_argentina_el_15ene2018.webp" alt="Mensaje del Papa Francisco al sobrevolar argentina el 15ENE2018"><figcaption>Message from Pope Francis while flying over Argentina on January 15, 2018</figcaption></figure>As for the aircraft involved, EI-EJL (serial number 1283) was delivered to Alitalia directly from the factory in January 2012. It later became part of the fleet transferred to ITA Airways in October 2021, where it operated until October 2024, before joining Hi Fly Malta in February 2025 (in recent months it had been flying under a wet lease arrangement for Air Austral).The Boeing 777-200 EI-DBL (serial number 32781) had been delivered to Alitalia in November 2002 and remained in its fleet until October 2021. It was subsequently stored by its owner (GECAS) and ultimately retired at the Roswell airport in the United States, where it has remained since December 2021.

Pope Francis Flew Over Argentina Twice—but Never Landed Again

ITA Airways has expressed its condolences following the death of Pope Francis, recalling the role the airline played in supporting the pontiff’s apostolic journeys since it began operations.According to the company, ITA Airways accompanied the Pope on 13 international trips, starting with the visit to Cyprus in December 2021, just two months after the airline commenced operations.The list of destinations includes Canada, Kazakhstan, Bahrain, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Mongolia and Indonesia, with the most recent journey taking place in Ajaccio, France, in December 2024.During a private audience at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican, Pope Francis referred to the airline and its personnel as “the Pope’s wings that allow me to fly to the ends of the Earth carrying the Gospel of hope and peace”, a moment the company highlighted in its statement.The airline emphasized the legacy of Pope Francis, particularly his dedication to mercy, interreligious dialogue, peace, care for the environment, and his commitment to the most vulnerable in society. These values, the company noted, resonated with the spirit of the journeys it supported.“His death leaves an immense emptiness in our hearts and in our lives,” ITA Airways stated, adding that his “words of peace, gestures of mercy and constant call for brotherhood between peoples” will continue to inspire future generations.ITA Airways is the flag carrier of Italy, currently owned 59% by the Ministry of Economy and Finance and 41% by Deutsche Lufthansa AG.&nbsp;

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