Aviation Daily Roundup: May. 2, 2023

Los Angeles-based Air Lease Corp. is saying it expects to be compensated by airframers for delayed aircraft deliveries, claiming those companies oversold aircraft and ramped up production too quickly despite knowing the supply chain challenges they faced. 

It has become ubiquitous: “When compared to 2019 levels ...”

Variants of the phrase continue to echo across earnings calls, conference panel discussions, and at industry events and tradeshows. Now, three years past the onset of the pandemic, when will industry set a new benchmark? As 2020 fades into the rearview mirror, airlines continue to look forward, not back, and it begs the question if those comparisons are increasingly irrelevant.

Luxair has approved the purchase of two more Boeing 737-8s, adding to two of the type already on order and another pair that the Luxembourg flag carrier is planning to lease.

Etihad Airways has apparently changed its future expansion plans, following the departure of its former CEO.

Spring Airlines has become the first major Chinese carrier to return to profitability in the 2023 first quarter (Q1), reflecting a strong domestic rebound following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions Jan. 8. 

In a further sign of Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions, the country’s regulator is seeking expressions of interest from investors to create a new national LCC.

All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japanese fuel suppliers INPEX and Idemitsu have commenced a carbon neutral demonstration project for all flights to Hiroshima in May, in support of the G7 summit being held in the city May 19-21.