Start-up carrier Global Airlines says it has agreed terms to acquire three more A380 aircraft, as it moves towards launching flights next year.
The paper airline recently confirmed it had acquired its first A380 superjumbo from Doric Aviation, which is believed to have previously flown with Singapore Airlines.
Global said that a further three superjumbos had been purchased for an undisclosed figure, adding that the group was now “now developing plans for their refit and return to service”.
The carrier – founded by Holiday Swap Group CEO James Asquith (pictured above) – said that “Further details about the aircraft, the acquisition and the refurbishment” would be published in the coming months.
As previously reported, Global plans to configure each of its four A380s with around 471 seats, and the carrier’s website also says that more aircraft will be added in 2024.
The airline plans to launch transatlantic services to as yet unspecified destinations in spring 2024.
Meanwhile Global has also appointed new members to its Advisory Board – former French Air Force fighter pilot and COO at XL Airways Pierre Madrange, and experienced commercial and former military pilot Ian Black.
Commenting on the news James Asquith, founder and CEO of Global Airlines, said:
“We extend our warmest welcome to both Ian and Pierre to the Global Airlines’ advisory board, where they will work closely with our team.
“It is a real testament to the progress we are making that we continue to appoint senior and experienced people to our Advisory Board. I believe we must have one of the most experienced teams of aviation professionals coming together to launch Global Airlines.
“We are also delighted to announce that we have agreed the purchase of a further three A380s to join the Global fleet. As I’ve always said, the A380 is the best aircraft in the sky, and we will continue to look for further acquisition opportunities.”
Many A380s were grounded during the Covid-19 pandemic, and Air France retired its entire superjumbo fleet in 2020.
But the double-decker aircraft has been making something of a comeback in recent months, with Etihad Airways the latest to announce plans to reintroduce the A380 into its fleet.
For our round-up of the latest situation across all 14 superjumbo operators, see:
