With Day 2 of the aviation jamboree that’s known as the Farnborough Air Show done and dusted, it’s time to wrap up the orders and go forward with our Daily Digest.
As usual, we’ll go by the airframers, then anything else from other manufacturers that sparks joy.
Airbus
Philippine Airlines to add further A3500-1000s
Philippine Airlines continues to accumulate aircraft, with them signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for nine A350-1000 widebody aircraft.
Once finalised, the new contract will double the airline’s total orders for the A350-1000 to 18 aircraft, of which the first two have been delivered this year. Designated as the carrier’s new flagship, the A350-1000 will enable PAL to further develop its long-haul network, primarily linking Manila with destinations in North America.
PAL has specified a three-class configuration for its A350-1000 fleet, accommodating 382 passengers. The layout includes 42 suites in Business Class with privacy doors and fully flat beds, 24 seats in a spacious separate Premium Economy cabin and 316 seats in Economy Class. All cabins feature the latest in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity.
In Quotes
Lucio C. Tan III, President and Chief Operating Officer of PAL Holdings, Inc said:
“The A350-1000 will continue to define the future of our international operations for many years to come,”
. “As the first and currently the only airline in Southeast Asia to operate the Airbus A350-1000, Philippine Airlines has experienced firsthand the aircraft’s exceptional range, fuel efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort. It has expanded our reach across North America, while delivering the world-class travel experience our customers deserve.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of the Airbus Commercial Aircraft business, added
“We are proud that PAL is strongly expanding its A350-1000 flagship fleet, flying the flag of the Philippines across the world,”
“This agreement marks an important milestone in deepening our partnership with Philippine Airlines. Being the long range leader, the A350-1000 is the perfect platform for the airline to build its future long haul network and meet continued growth, especially in competitive premium transpacific markets. We look forward to finalising this new order soon.”
Shohin Airlines to add the A320neo family
Shohin Airlines, established in Dushanbe, Tajikistan as a private airline company, has disclosed an order for four Airbus A320neo Family aircraft, marking the first ever Airbus order for the airline—the agreement, which includes two A320neo and two A321neo aircraft.
Registered in June 2025, the airline aims to expand a wide route network and build a strong brand that represents Tajikistan on the global aviation stage.
The A320neo aircraft will feature 176 seats and the A321neo will feature 196 seats in a dual-class layout. These new aircraft will help the airline launch services to regional and global markets.
In Quotes
Zafar Ahmadzoda, Chief Executive Officer of Shohin Airlines, said:
“The signing of our first contract with Airbus marks a milestone not only for Shohin Airlines, but also for the entire civil aviation sector of Tajikistan. The A320neo Family aircraft will form the backbone of our airline’s modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable fleet.
We are committed to providing our passengers with the highest standards of safety, comfort, and service quality while expanding Tajikistan’s international air connectivity. We are confident that our partnership with Airbus will provide a solid foundation for Shohin Airlines’ long-term growth and the successful implementation of our strategy to build a world-class airline,”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, added
“Welcoming a new customer to the Airbus family is always a proud moment, and we are honoured Shohin Airlines has chosen Airbus to power their historic launch.”
“We look forward to supporting Shohin Airlines’ vision to connect Tajikistan to the world. This agreement marks the beginning of a strong partnership, ensuring the airline sets a new regional standard for fleet optimisation, operational excellence, and passenger experience right from its start.”
Airbus also announced news on its Wings for Tomorrow programme… but we’ll be looking at this post-show.
Boeing
Uganda Airlines to modernise fleet
Uganda Airlines is ordering four 737-8 and four 787-9 aircraft to grow and modernise its fleet. This will be the airline’s first-ever Boeing purchase and will support growing demand across its regional and international network.
Together, the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner will enable Uganda Airlines to serve more destinations while reducing fuel use by 20-25% compared to the aircraft they replace.
In Quotes
Ato Girma Wake, Uganda Airlines CEO, said:
“This commitment with Boeing marks a defining step in Uganda Airlines’ growth journey and in our broader ambition to position Entebbe as a strategic aviation hub for the region,” said
“The aircraft will strengthen our ability to connect Uganda more efficiently to regional, continental and international markets, while supporting trade, tourism, investment and cargo development.”
Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. said:
“We’re pleased to welcome Uganda Airlines as a Boeing customer and support the airline’s next phase of growth with the 737-8 and 787-9,” saidThese airplanes offer efficiency, range and versatility to help Uganda Airlines strengthen and expand its network.”
“Just as importantly, this partnership brings together Uganda Airlines and Boeing in a long-term relationship focused not only on fleet growth, but also on technical excellence, training and capacity building,”
“We are proud to celebrate this milestone at Farnborough as we invest in the future of our national carrier and in Uganda’s economic transformation.”
The airline currently flies to 17 destinations in 13 countries from its hub in Entebbe, Uganda.
Luxair adds further 737 MAX.
Luxair has converted two options for the Boeing 737-10 into firm orders and secured options for two additional 737-10 aircraft.
Following its 2024 order for two Boeing 737-10 aircraft, Luxair has now converted two options into firm orders. Once all firm orders have been delivered, Luxair’s Boeing 737 fleet will comprise of twelve aircraft: eight Boeing 737-8s and four Boeing 737-10s.
These Boeing 737-10s will be configured in a 213-seater layout.
In Quotes
Gilles Feith, CEO of Luxair, said:
“This agreement represents another important milestone in the execution of our long-term fleet strategy,” said
“As we continue to grow, delivering an outstanding passenger experience remains at the heart of every fleet decision we make. The Boeing 737-10 provides the additional capacity, operational efficiency and flexibility we need to support future demand while maintaining the high standards of quality, comfort and service our customers expect from Luxair.”
“With 20 percent lower fuel use and emissions compared with the aircraft they replace, these aircraft also support our ambition to further reduce our environmental footprint while strengthening Luxembourg’s connectivity,”
“At the same time, the additional purchase rights preserve valuable strategic flexibility, allowing us to adapt our fleet in line with future market developments and customer demand.”
Ricardo Cavero, Boeing vice president, Europe and Israel Commercial Sales and Marketing, said:
“Both the 737-8 and 737-10 are perfectly suited across Luxair’s network, increasing capacity on to its regional routes, comfortably serving more passengers on more routes with the lowest cost per seat of any single-aisle airplane,”
“With the selection of the 737-8 and 737-10, Luxair is building a more profitable and sustainable operation.”
AerCap adds further Boeing 787 aircraft
AerCap placed a new order for 15 787-9 jets. This latest purchase increases AerCap’s 787 Dreamliner portfolio to approximately 140 airplanes. The agreement includes substitution rights for the 787-10, giving AerCap the flexibility to switch to the larger 787 Dreamliner variant
In Quotes
Aengus Kelly, CEO of AerCap, said:
“The addition of these 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliner airplanes to our fleet further strengthens our position as the world’s largest owner of 787 jets,”
“As demand for modern, fuel-efficient widebody airplanes continues to grow, this transaction enables us to provide our customers with greater access to one of the industry’s most versatile and sought-after airplane families. The 787 has consistently demonstrated strong operating economics and exceptional performance across a wide range of route networks.”
Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, added:
“AerCap’s continued investment in the 787 Dreamliner family underscores the airplane’s role in enabling long-haul connectivity and superior economics for airlines,”
“We deeply value this partnership and look forward to supporting AerCap and its customers as they open and sustain new long-haul routes to further connect the world.”
MSC Air Cargo adds a further Boeing 777-8Fs to its roster
MSC Air Cargo announced that it has purchased five 777-8 Freighters as it expands its fleet.
The 777-8 Freighter offers the highest payload and the lowest fuel use, emissions and operating cost per tonne of any large freighter. Widebody freighters fly approximately 75 per cent of global air cargo capacity. The air freight sector is expected to play a crucial role in the decades ahead as e-commerce continues to grow.
Boeing has booked more than 80 orders for the 777-8 Freighter, and MSC Air Cargo is the third Europe-based air cargo operator to order the aircraft.
In Quotes
Jannie Davel, CEO of MSC Air Cargo, said:
“With this order, we are investing in the long-term future of MSC Air Cargo and in the customers we serve,”
“The 777-8 Freighter gives us the efficiency, range and capacity to serve our customers reliably for years to come, while advancing our commitment to more sustainable operations. It is the right aircraft for the next stage of our growth.”
Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, said:
“MSC Air Cargo is investing in its future with this order for large widebody freighter aircraft that will further enhance the capability and reach of its global air network,”
“The 777-8 Freighter will be the most efficient aircraft in its class and will connect MSC Air Cargo’s hubs to key international markets.”
Embraer
It’s all systems go over at the Embraer chalet, with a number of agreements announced today.
Abra Group to purchase up to 45 E195-E2
Abra Group -parent of Avianca, Gol and WamosAir announced an agreement to acquire 20 E195-E2 aircraft. Abra will also receive 10 purchase options and 15 purchase rights, for a total of up to 45 aircraft.
The first aircraft delivery is expected in the fourth quarter of 2027.
Adrian Neuhauser, CEO of Abra, said:
“The E195-E2 will provide Abra with flexibility to pursue new opportunities as part of our disciplined approach to fleet deployment, and delivering greater value when and where our customers need it most. This agreement reflects our commitment to continue investing in efficient, next-generation aircraft as we expand connectivity and strengthen our network across the region and domestically”.
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, said:
“We are proud to support Abra Group in its growth journey with the E195-E2, one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly single-aisle aircraft available today. This agreement reinforces Embraer’s position as a key partner for airlines seeking versatility and performance from small narrowbody aircraft.”
Luxair converts further options
Luxair has converted existing purchase rights for three E190-E2 aircraft into firm orders and secured one additional purchase right.
The airline had previously ordered six E195-E2 aircraft, four of which are already operating across its network. Following their successful entry into service, the airline has decided to further expand its E2 fleet with the E190-E2. With today’s announcement, Luxair’s firm E2 order book increases to nine aircraft.
The first E190-E2 is expected to join the Luxair fleet at the end of 2028. It will be configured with 100 seats in a two-cabin layout.
In Quotes
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, said:
“We are delighted that Luxair has chosen to further grow its E2 fleet with this additional order,”
“The E190-E2 combines outstanding economics, operational efficiency, and passenger comfort, making it the ideal aircraft for airlines seeking sustainable growth. We greatly value our partnership with Luxair and look forward to supporting the airline’s continued success.”
Gilles Feith, Chief Executive Officer of Luxair, added:
“The outstanding performance of our first E195-E2 aircraft has confirmed that the E2 family is the right platform for Luxair”
“The E190-E2 is an excellent complement to our growing fleet, giving us greater flexibility to match capacity to the specific requirements of each route while preserving fleet commonality and the operational efficiencies of a single aircraft family. At the same time, the cabin configuration we have chosen offers best-in-class seat spacing, reflecting our commitment to providing exceptional comfort and personal space while delivering the premium travel experience our customers expect from Luxair. Combined with the E2 family’s outstanding fuel efficiency and reduced noise footprint, these aircraft also support more sustainable and quieter operations across our network.”
Fuji Dream Airlines signs for two further E175
Fuji Dream Airlines (FDA) has placed a firm order for two additional E175 aircraft. The order is already reflected in Embraer’s backlog.
FDA’s new E175 aircraft will be configured in a single-class 84-seat layout, with deliveries scheduled for 2027 and 2028. They have been operating E-Jets since commencing operations in 2009.
In Quotes
Shunsuke Honda, President of Fuji Dream Airlines, said:
“FDA currently operates a fleet of 15 Embraer aircraft, consisting of two E170s and thirteen E175s. The introduction of these new aircraft will enhance our capacity and help further strengthen our network connecting communities across Japan. We are also very pleased that this order represents an opportunity to further develop our long-standing partnership with Embraer.”
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, said:
“Fuji Dream Airlines’ outstanding operations and its team’s relentless pursuit of excellence have greatly contributed to Japan’s regional aviation sector. It also reflects the E-Jets’ ability to deliver a high standard of reliability, performance, efficiency and passenger comfort. We are honoured to be a partner in FDA’s growth and will continue to deliver exceptional value to the airline.”
Azorra to add Passenger to Freighter Conversions
Azorra has signed an agreement for purchasing 20 passenger-to-freighter conversion firm orders and 10 purchase rights, bringing the total agreement to up to 30 aircraft. The order follows the successful entry into service of the E190F in March.
The E190F offers more than 100 m³ of cargo volume and up to 13.5 tons of payload, offering more space than turboprop freighters.
The agreement follows Azorra’s recently placed firm order for 15 additional Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for 15 more. Announced in June 2026, the agreement increased Azorra’s total firm E2 orders to 54 aircraft and marked a significant milestone for Embraer, pushing the E2 program beyond 500 firm orders worldwide.
John Evans, CEO of Azorra, said:
“Our partnership with Embraer has been built over many years and is rooted in a shared belief in the long-term value and reliability of the E-Jet platform. The E-Freighter is a natural extension of that story, combining the proven performance of the E-Jet with a compelling solution for the growing express cargo market. This investment reflects our confidence in the aircraft and extending its useful life. The E-Jet Freighter is an ideal replacement for older 737 freighters, offering reliable, Stage 4 noise-compliant operations and, with Azorra’s CF34 engine program, unmatched operating costs. We are proud to deepen our long-standing partnership with Embraer and look forward to helping bring the E-Freighter to operators worldwide.”
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, said:
“Azorra has been a trusted partner in the success of Embraer aircraft around the world, and this order marks another important chapter in our relationship. This agreement is a strong endorsement of the E-Freighter and reflects growing demand for efficient, right-sized cargo solutions worldwide. We look forward to supporting Azorra and its customers as the E-Freighter continues to expand its presence across the global air cargo market.”
Carlos Naufel, President and CEO of Embraer Services & Support, said:
“The E-Freighter combines the proven reliability of the E-Jets platform with Embraer’s comprehensive support structure, ensuring operators can maximize aircraft availability and performance from day one. As the E-Freighter fleet continues to grow, we are committed to helping customers unlock its full operational potential through our global services network, innovative solutions, and decades of experience supporting E-Jets around the world.”
Binter to add five more E-Jets
Binter has placed an additional order for five E195-E2 aircraft. The agreement also includes four purchase rights.
The aircraft’s range and capacity make it ideally suited for the airline’s network, connecting the Canary Islands with destinations across Spain and beyond.
In Quotes
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, said:
“We are delighted that Binter has once again selected the E195-E2,”
“This new order reflects the outstanding performance of the E195-E2 in service and the value it delivers through exceptional efficiency, passenger comfort, and operational flexibility. Binter has become a benchmark for successful E2 operations, with this fourth order underscoring its confidence in the aircraft’s performance. We are proud to support Binter connecting the Canary islands.
Engine Orders
A fair bit of action from the CFM International and Pratt & Whitney as they have announcements aplenty.
- Pratt & Whitney and Tigerair Taiwan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for GTF engines to power 15 Airbus A321neo aircraft, made up of four firm and 11 leased aircraft.
- BOC Aviation Limited has announced an order for up to 220 Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, which will power up to 110 Airbus A320neo family aircraft
- CFM International and BOC Aviation Limited have finalised a firm order for up to 200 LEAP-1A and 100 LEAP-1B engines to power Airbus A320neo family and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft that BOC Aviation had previously ordered.
- IndiGo announced it has signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with CFM International for an order of 1,000+ LEAP-1A engines to power 510 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft.
- China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC) announced the selection of CFM International LEAP-1A engines to power an additional 20 A320neo and A321neo aircraft.
- Somon Air has signed an MoU for two sets of Rolls-Royce Trent 1000XE. This follows a recent order for six Trent 1000 XE for LATAM in April this year.
- Rolls-Royce and Philippine Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 18 Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines to power nine Airbus A350-1000 aircraft (as noted above).
That’s it for Day 2
With some manufacturers getting into more concept announcements today as well as orders, it seems that the well is pretty dry this show (unless there’s a big order just waiting for the final days).
It’s interesting to also note that today was the first time we’ve seen an order made for the Boeing 777X family, with all other widebody orders going to the established 787 family or the A350, whilst the narrow bodies have done well so far.
Notably, Embraer has pulled out the stops today with lots of announcements – mainly for incremental orders.
We’ll have to see what joys await tomorrow at Day 3 of the Farnborough Air Show.
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