Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Buraq Air Signs MoU for 10 Airbus A320neo Aircraft at Dubai Airshow
Buraq Air to modernize fleet with 10 Airbus A320neo aircraft, enhancing efficiency and partnership with Medsky Airways in Libya.
Buraq Air Signals Fleet Renewal with Airbus Commitment at Dubai Airshow 2025
In a significant development for the North African aviation sector, Buraq Air has formally announced its intention to modernize its fleet through a new agreement with Airbus. On November 19, 2025, during the Dubai Airshow, the Libyan carrier signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 10 A320neo Family aircraft. This move marks a potential turning point for the airline, which is Libya’s first private carrier, as it seeks to transition its operations toward a more modern and efficient fleet structure.
The agreement was finalized by Fouzi Almiqalh, President of the General Assembly of Buraq Air, and Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales for Commercial Aircraft at Airbus. While the deal currently stands as a Memorandum of Understanding, a non-binding agreement that typically precedes a firm order, it signals a strong strategic intent from the airline to invest heavily in new technology. The commitment aligns with broader trends in the region where carriers are looking to upgrade aging fleets to improve fuel efficiency and passenger experience.
This announcement represents a notable shift in Buraq Air’s operational strategy. Historically, the airline has relied on Boeing aircraft, specifically the 737-400 and 737-800 models. However, in the year leading up to this announcement, the carrier began testing the Airbus platform by leasing used A320 aircraft. This MoU suggests that the trial period was successful and that the airline is now prepared to commit to Airbus for its long-term fleet requirements.
Strategic Implications and Operational Synergies
A primary driver behind this commitment appears to be the deepening partnership between Buraq Air and Medsky Airways. The press release regarding the announcement explicitly notes that the new fleet is intended to provide a “seamless platform for Medsky Airways.” Medsky, a newer entrant in the Libyan market established around 2022, maintains a close operational alliance with Buraq. By standardizing their fleets around the A320neo Family, both airlines could theoretically streamline their logistics, sharing pilot pools, maintenance resources, and technical support, which would result in significant cost reductions.
The choice of the A320neo Family offers Buraq Air considerable flexibility regarding route expansion. The aircraft are slated to support both domestic operations and international connections. Currently, the airline serves key domestic hubs such as Tripoli (Mitiga), Benghazi, Tobruk, and Labraq. Internationally, the network includes destinations like Tunis, Istanbul, Alexandria, and Jeddah. The improved range and efficiency of the A320neo variants could allow the airline to explore further destinations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, pending regulatory approvals and airspace conditions.
This move also places Buraq Air in direct competition with other modernizing forces within the Libyan aviation sector. For instance, Berniq Airways, another private Libyan carrier, placed an order for six Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft in May 2024. The parallel moves by these private entities indicate a competitive race to dominate the recovering market by offering superior hardware and reliability compared to legacy state-owned carriers, which have faced operational difficulties due to years of regional instability.
“This agreement represents a significant step forward for Buraq Air… The A320neo’s efficiency and flexibility will not only be central to strengthening our core network but will also provide a seamless platform for Medsky Airways, our key strategic partner.”
— Fouzi Almiqalh, President of the General Assembly of Buraq Air.
Technical Specifications and Market Context
The “A320neo Family” designation in the MoU allows Buraq Air the option to select between the standard A320neo and the larger A321neo. Both models feature the “Airspace” cabin, which provides wider seats, larger overhead storage, and modern lighting systems. These features represent a substantial upgrade in passenger comfort compared to the older generation Boeing 737s previously operated by the airline. While the specific engine choice, between CFM International’s LEAP-1A and Pratt & Whitney’s GTF, has not been disclosed, the selection will be critical for operations in Libya’s demanding high-temperature and dusty environment.
From a manufacturer’s perspective, this agreement reinforces Airbus’s growing footprint in North Africa. The company has been actively engaging with Libyan stakeholders to assist in the rebuilding of the country’s aviation infrastructure. Securing a commitment from a legacy private carrier like Buraq Air validates the A320neo’s position as a preferred single-aisle aircraft for airlines operating in recovering markets where efficiency and reliability are paramount.
It is important to note that as this is an MoU, specific delivery dates and financial terms remain undisclosed. In the current industrial climate, Airbus faces a significant backlog, with standard delivery timelines often extending two to three years beyond a firm order. Consequently, while the commitment is made in 2025, the physical arrival of these new aircraft would likely occur later in the decade, marking a long-term investment in the airline’s future capabilities.
Conclusion
The commitment by Buraq Air to acquire 10 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft serves as a strong indicator of recovery and ambition within the Libyan private aviation sector. By pivoting away from its historical reliance on Boeing and aligning its fleet strategy with its partner Medsky Airways, Buraq is positioning itself to operate more efficiently and competitively. The deal underscores a broader trend of fleet modernization in the region, as carriers seek to leverage new technology to rebuild networks and reconnect Libya with the global market.
As the airline moves to finalize this Memorandum of Understanding into a firm order, the focus will shift to the technical execution of the fleet transition. The successful integration of these aircraft will depend on the selection of appropriate engine technology and the continued stability of the regional market. Ultimately, this agreement at the Dubai Airshow 2025 highlights the resilience of the aviation industry in North Africa and the critical role of modern aircraft in facilitating economic reconnection.
FAQ
Question: What exactly did Buraq Air order from Airbus?
Answer: Buraq Air signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 10 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft. This allows them to choose between different models within that family, such as the A320neo or A321neo.
Question: Is this a binding contract?
Answer: No, currently it is a Memorandum of Understanding. This is a non-binding agreement that signals a serious intent to purchase but precedes a final, firm contract.
Question: Why is Buraq Air switching to Airbus?
Answer: The airline is modernizing its fleet and moving away from older Boeing models. The switch also aligns their operations with their partner, Medsky Airways, allowing for shared resources and reduced operational costs.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
ANA Holdings Orders 8 More Embraer E190-E2 Jets, Total Hits 23
ANA Holdings expands its E190-E2 order to 23 aircraft, with IBEX Airlines set to operate the jets under an ACMI deal from FY2029.
ANA Holdings Inc. (ANA HD) has finalized an agreement with Embraer to acquire eight additional Embraer E190-E2 regional jets, bringing the Japanese aviation group’s total firm orders for the type to 23 aircraft. The transaction, announced on September 3, 2026, underpins a newly established capacity purchase agreement that will see the modern narrowbodies replace aging regional aircraft on domestic Japanese routes.
In a press release issued by Embraer, the manufacturer confirmed the order accelerates ANA HD’s regional fleet modernization strategy. The aircraft will be deployed under a comprehensive Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) partnership with Japanese regional carrier IBEX Airlines, an arrangement formally approved by the ANA HD board of directors on July 29, 2026.
Fleet modernization and the IBEX Airlines partnership
Under the terms of the ACMI agreement, All Nippon Airways (ANA) will serve as the marketing carrier, overseeing route planning and ticket sales for the regional network. IBEX Airlines will operate the flights using the newly ordered Embraer E190-E2 aircraft. The introduction of the E2 fleet will allow IBEX Airlines to retire its legacy fleet of Bombardier CRJ700 aircraft.
Deliveries of the new Embraer jets to ANA HD are scheduled to begin in 2028. The companies are targeting fiscal year 2029 for the official launch of the ACMI operations between ANA and IBEX Airlines.
ANA Holdings President and CEO Koji Shibata stated that the additional E190-E2 order accelerates the company’s efforts to build a sustainable regional aviation network in Japan. He noted the agreement underscores ANA HD’s confidence in Embraer’s technology to reduce both environmental impact and operating costs while elevating regional connectivity.
Embraer’s growing footprint in the Japanese market
The September 3 agreement builds upon ANA HD’s initial commitment to the E2 program. The company placed its first firm order for 15 E190-E2 aircraft, along with five options, on February 25, 2025. ANA HD originally selected the Embraer E190-E2 to fulfill its regional fleet requirements following the 2023 cancellation of the Mitsubishi SpaceJet program, for which ANA was the intended launch customer.
Embraer Commercial Aviation President and CEO Arjan Meijer said the manufacturer is honored by the continued confidence from ANA HD and looks forward to supporting the airline group’s growth plans.
“With its exceptional economics and fuel efficiency, the E2 will support expanded connectivity across Japan along with better comfort and space for passengers,” Meijer said.
AirPro News analysis
We view ANA HD’s decision to exercise further E190-E2 orders as a pragmatic stabilization of its regional strategy following the collapse of the domestic SpaceJet initiative. By structuring the deployment through an ACMI agreement with IBEX Airlines, ANA HD effectively outsources the operational transition while retaining network control and marketing revenue. The transition from the Bombardier CRJ700 to the E190-E2 will provide a substantial step up in capacity and fuel efficiency, aligning with broader industry trends toward upgauging regional networks with next-generation crossover narrowbodies. The timeline also provides IBEX Airlines with a clear runway to phase out its older airframes before maintenance costs on the out-of-production CRJ fleet escalate further.
Sources: Embraer
Photo Credit: Embraer
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Sun PhuQuoc Airways Takes Delivery of First A321neo LR
Sun PhuQuoc Airways receives Vietnam’s first A321neo LR, enabling direct long-range routes to Japan and Kazakhstan from Phu Quoc.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo LR, marking the first time a Vietnamese carrier has owned and operated the long-range narrowbody variant.
The aircraft, registered as VN-A925, arrived in Hanoi (HAN) on September 3, 2026. In an official statement, the leisure-focused airline highlighted the aircraft’s extended range as a primary driver for its upcoming international network expansion.
Fleet expansion and route capabilities
The Airbus A321neo LR features a maximum range of 4,000 nautical miles, or approximately 7,400 kilometers. This capability allows the carrier to reach deeper into Asia and potentially Eastern Europe directly from its base in Vietnam.
According to flight tracking data from Flightradar24, the aircraft was ferried from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Denpasar (DPS) in late August before making its final delivery flight to Hanoi. Sun PhuQuoc Airways emphasized the strategic value of the acquisition in its announcement.
“With a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles, the A321neo LR is built to take Sun PhuQuoc Airways farther, opening the door to more destinations and more journeys beyond Vietnam,” the company stated.
Strategic shift for Vietnamese leisure travel
Backed by the Sun Group conglomerate, Sun PhuQuoc Airways operates a leisure-focused model designed to boost tourism to Phu Quoc (PQC). The airline has been rapidly expanding its fleet to support an international growth strategy.
The addition of the A321neo LR enables the airline to connect Phu Quoc to distant markets such as Japan and Kazakhstan. Operating these routes with a narrowbody aircraft reduces the financial risk compared to deploying larger, harder-to-fill widebody jets on unproven leisure routes.
AirPro News analysis
We view the acquisition of the Airbus A321neo LR as a calculated step for Sun PhuQuoc Airways to capture long-haul leisure traffic without the overhead of a widebody fleet. By utilizing the A321LR, the airline can test thinner, long-distance routes directly to Phu Quoc. This mirrors a broader global industry trend where operators leverage long-range narrowbody aircraft to bypass traditional major hubs and connect secondary leisure destinations directly to international source markets.
Sources: Sun PhuQuoc Airways
Photo Credit: Sun PhuQuoc Airways
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
MACH Aircraft Leasing Platform Doubles to USD 3 Billion
La Caisse and SMBC Aviation Capital expand MACH to USD 3B after early deployment of initial capital, extending through December 2029.
La Caisse and SMBC Aviation Capital have doubled the size of their joint aircraft financing platform, Maple Aircraft Company Holdings Limited (MACH), to USD 3 billion, following the rapid deployment of their initial capital commitment ahead of schedule.
Announced on September 3, 2026, in Montréal and Dublin, the expansion extends the platform’s investment period through December 2029. According to a joint press release, the move underscores strong institutional appetite for aviation assets and ongoing airline demand for modern, fuel-efficient Commercial-Aircraft.
Rapid deployment and portfolio growth
Originally launched in January 2024 with a USD 1.5 billion commitment, the MACH platform was designed to provide flexible financing solutions to global Airlines. The partners deployed that initial capital faster than anticipated, prompting the decision to inject an additional USD 1.5 billion to capture emerging market opportunities.
The platform currently holds a portfolio of 21 aircraft leased to 13 airline customers across 10 global markets. The Investments strategy remains focused on acquiring new-technology aircraft that offer improved fuel efficiency, aligning with broader industry fleet renewal efforts and Sustainability targets.
Strategic partnership and market dynamics
SMBC Aviation Capital Chief Commercial Officer Barry Flannery stated that the successful deployment of MACH highlights the strength of the Partnerships and the continuing demand for flexible aircraft financing.
“Expanding the platform with our trusted partner, La Caisse, positions us to build on this momentum and continue to support our airline customers worldwide with access to modern, fuel-efficient aircraft of the types that are most in demand,” Flannery said.
Martin Longchamps, Executive Vice-President and Head of Private Equity and Private Credit at La Caisse, noted that the platform’s execution since 2024 validates the combination of specialized aviation expertise and patient long-term capital. He added that favorable market dynamics position MACH to capitalize on attractive opportunities across the leasing sector.
AirPro News analysis
We view the rapid expansion of the MACH platform as a clear indicator of the current supply-demand imbalance in the commercial aircraft market. With original equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) struggling to meet delivery targets, airlines are increasingly reliant on lessors to secure capacity. Recent industry data indicates that aviation asset sales activity has increased throughout 2026, generating strong proceeds at premiums to adjusted base values.
SMBC Aviation Capital has capitalized on this environment aggressively in 2026. The lessor recently closed a USD 2 billion senior unsecured bond offering in July and placed highly sought-after narrowbody aircraft, including Boeing 737 MAX 8s with Vietnam Airlines and Airbus A321XLRs with Air Seychelles. The willingness of institutional investors like La Caisse to double down on aviation assets suggests confidence that lease rates and aircraft valuations will remain elevated through the end of the decade.
Sources: SMBC Aviation Capital
Photo Credit: SMBC Aviation Capital
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