Commercial Aviation
easyJet to Fit Ultra-Lightweight Mirus Kestrel Seats on 237 New Aircraft
easyJet partners with Mirus to install lightweight Kestrel seats on 237 new Airbus aircraft, reducing weight and CO2 emissions starting 2028.
This article is based on an official press release from easyJet.
In a significant move toward operational efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort, easyJet has announced a major fleet upgrade featuring new ultra-lightweight economy seats. According to an official press release issued on March 23, 2026, the European low-cost carrier has partnered with UK-based manufacturer Mirus Aircraft Seating to install the “Kestrel” seat on 237 future Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft deliveries.
The new seating arrangement is projected to be over 20 percent lighter than easyJet’s current models. The airline states that this weight reduction will offer substantial environmental benefits, including an estimated annual reduction of over 40,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the ergonomic design of the Kestrel seat will provide passengers with up to two inches of additional legroom without altering the cabin’s overall seat pitch.
This announcement aligns with easyJet’s broader strategy under CEO Kenton Jarvis, who assumed leadership in January 2025, to focus heavily on data-led performance and Sustainability across the airline’s operations.
According to the company’s announcement, the installation of the new Mirus Kestrel seats will commence in 2028, exclusively on new aircraft deliveries. The scale of the order is substantial, covering 237 incoming Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft. easyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis confirmed in the release that the airline will not retrofit older aircraft with the new seats. The decision to avoid retrofitting was attributed to the unnecessary expense and the environmental waste associated with removing perfectly functional existing seats.
Mirus Aircraft Seating, founded in 2015, is known for blending aerospace and automotive engineering principles. The press release notes that the Kestrel seat weighs from just 6.9 kilograms per passenger when fully dressed. This specification makes it the lightest seat in its class and over 20 percent lighter than the seats currently utilized by easyJet. Additionally, the seats were developed and certified at Mirus’ UK-based MTEST facility, a localized approach that easyJet highlights as a way to reduce the carbon footprint typically associated with transporting seats overseas for external testing.
Reducing the physical weight of an aircraft, a process known in the industry as “lightweighting”, is a primary method for Airlines to decrease fuel burn. easyJet reports that the Kestrel seats will save up to 500 kilograms of weight per aircraft on its larger models. This weight reduction translates to an estimated combined annual fuel saving of over 12,936 tonnes across the fleet. Consequently, the airline projects this will prevent over 40,513 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
Beyond fuel savings, the seat is designed with lifecycle sustainability in mind. The manufacturer states that the Kestrel seat features a low part count and a simplified design to reduce maintenance requirements. At the end of its operational life, the seat is approximately 98 percent recyclable, supporting circular economy principles. The introduction of the Kestrel seat is part of a wider suite of marginal gains easyJet is employing to reach its net-zero by 2050 target. According to the provided company data, these initiatives include:
Despite operating as a low-cost carrier, easyJet emphasizes that the new seats will improve passenger comfort. The airline notes that passengers will gain up to two inches of additional legroom. This extra space is achieved without changing the actual seat pitch, the distance between rows. Instead, the Kestrel seat utilizes an ergonomic, pre-reclined structure fixed at a 22-degree angle, which improves knee and shin clearance for travelers.
Company leadership from both easyJet and Mirus highlighted the dual benefits of the Partnerships in their official statements.
“We are delighted to be introducing the Mirus Kestrel seat across our future fleet. This investment supports our continued focus on making our operations as efficient as possible, capitalising on small incremental gains that result in meaningful reductions in fuel burn and Co2 emissions. On top of the sustainability benefits, the additional legroom and enhanced comfort these seats will provide will also deliver an improved onboard experience for our customers which we know they’ll love.”
, David Morgan, Chief Operating Officer at easyJet
“Mirus is incredibly proud that easyJet, the UK’s largest airline and one of the world’s leading carriers, has placed its trust in us for what represents one of the largest single-model aircraft seat awards ever. This landmark agreement marks a defining moment for Mirus and reflects our shared commitment to enhancing passenger experience and comfort, while delivering sustainability and significant operational cost savings through reduced fuel burn and COâ‚‚ emissions.”
, Ben McGuire, Chief Executive Officer at Mirus Aircraft Seating
We view easyJet’s adoption of the Mirus Kestrel seat as a textbook example of the “marginal gains” strategy currently dominating commercial aviation. While the industry awaits the scaled commercialization of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and hydrogen propulsion, lightweighting remains one of the most immediate and controllable levers airlines can pull to reduce emissions and operational costs. Saving 500 kilograms per aircraft is a massive operational victory that directly impacts the bottom line through reduced fuel burn.
Furthermore, the partnership with a UK-based manufacturer like Mirus highlights a growing trend of localized supply chains. By keeping development, testing, and implementation within the UK, easyJet not only supports domestic aerospace manufacturing but also eliminates the Scope 3 emissions associated with shipping heavy aircraft components globally for certification. The fact that this operational efficiency also yields a tangible passenger benefit, two inches of extra legroom, makes it a rare win-win in the highly competitive low-cost carrier market.
When will easyJet passengers start seeing the new seats? Will older easyJet planes be retrofitted with these seats? How much weight does the new seat save? Sources: easyJet Official Press Release
easyJet to Install Ultra-Lightweight Mirus Kestrel Seats on 237 New Aircraft
The Mirus Kestrel Seat: Specifications and Rollout
Fleet Integration and Timeline
Engineering and Weight Reduction
Environmental and Operational Impact
Fuel and Emissions Savings
Broader Sustainability Initiatives at easyJet
Enhancing the Passenger Experience
Ergonomic Design for Extra Legroom
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The new Mirus Kestrel seats will begin rolling out in 2028 on new Airbus A320neo and A321neo deliveries.
No. easyJet has confirmed it will not retrofit older aircraft, citing the financial cost and environmental waste of discarding functional seats.
The seats weigh 6.9 kg per passenger, saving up to 500 kg of total weight per aircraft on easyJet’s larger models.
Photo Credit: easyJet
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Finnair Orders Up to 46 Embraer E195-E2 Jets for Fleet Modernization
Finnair commits to acquiring up to 46 Embraer E195-E2 jets to modernize its fleet, improve passenger comfort, and meet sustainability targets.
This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.
On March 23, 2026, Finnair and Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer announced a comprehensive fleet modernization agreement. According to an official press release from Embraer, the Finnish flag carrier has committed to acquiring up to 46 Embraer E195-E2 regional jets. This strategic move is designed to replace Finnair’s aging short-haul fleet and support the airline’s profitable growth trajectory across Europe.
The agreement marks a significant milestone for the 102-year-old airline. We note that this acquisition is not only a major financial investment but also a critical component of Finnair’s broader sustainability and passenger experience upgrades. The new aircraft order will be integrated into Embraer’s first-quarter 2026 backlog.
The comprehensive order consists of 18 firm aircraft, 16 options, and 12 purchase rights. Based on supplementary industry research, deliveries are scheduled to commence in the second half of 2027, specifically targeting the third quarter. The initial rollout of the firm orders will see three aircraft delivered in 2027, followed by six in 2028, and another six in 2029.
To support the new fleet, Finnair has concurrently signed agreements with RTX’s Pratt & Whitney. This secondary contract covers the purchase of spare PW1900G GTF engines and long-term maintenance services, ensuring operational reliability for the new E2 jets as they enter service.
Finnair has selected a passenger-friendly configuration for the E195-E2. The aircraft will feature 134 seats in a single-class layout. Notably, the 2-2 seating configuration eliminates middle seats entirely. According to the manufacturer’s press release, the cabin will also be equipped with modern amenities, including high-speed internet connectivity and USB chargers, representing a major upgrade for European short-haul business and leisure travelers.
A primary driver behind Finnair’s selection of the E195-E2 is the aircraft’s environmental performance. The Embraer press release highlights that the E195-E2 is up to 35 percent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation E190s currently operated by the airline. Furthermore, it is recognized as the quietest single-aisle jet available today, boasting a noise footprint at take-off that is approximately 60 to 63 percent smaller than current E190s, and 11 percent quieter than the competing Airbus A220.
“This is one of the largest investments in Finnair’s 102-year-old history… Importantly, this investment also reduces our CO2 footprint, advancing our climate targets,” stated Finnair CEO Turkka Kuusisto in the company release.
These efficiency gains are mandatory for Finnair’s environmental roadmap. In October 2024, the airline set a science-based target (validated by the SBTi) to reduce its carbon emissions intensity by 34.5 percent by 2033, compared to a 2023 baseline. Because SBTi rules require airlines to decarbonize within their own operations without relying on carbon offsetting, investing in highly fuel-efficient aircraft like the E195-E2 is essential for Finnair to achieve its roughly 13 percent absolute emissions reduction goal. The new E195-E2 aircraft are planned to be operated by Nordic Regional Airlines (Norra), a 60/40 joint venture between Danish Air Transport and Finnair. Norra currently operates a fleet of 12 older-generation Embraer E190s and 12 ATR 72-500 turboprops.
To complement the new E2s, Finnair is executing a mixed fleet strategy. Recent industry research indicates the airline is increasing its existing E190 fleet from 12 to 18 aircraft via the second-hand market, enabled by a new collective labor agreement. Additionally, Finnair is acquiring up to 12 used Airbus A320/A321ceo aircraft to replace older narrowbody jets, addressing an average fleet age of 15.4 years.
“Demand has been stronger than it has been historically, but we have seen the supply loosen up in the last few months,” noted Christine Rovelli, Finnair’s Chief Revenue Officer, regarding the mixed acquisition strategy.
This dual approach of purchasing next-generation regional jets alongside used current-generation narrowbodies highlights a pragmatic capital expenditure strategy. Following the financial strain of the pandemic and the operational challenges caused by the closure of Russian airspace, which severely impacted Finnair’s Asian route efficiency, the airline is pivoting confidently toward European network expansion. By securing the E195-E2, Finnair protects its sustainability mandates, while the used aircraft acquisitions provide immediate capacity relief at a lower capital cost.
When will Finnair receive its first Embraer E195-E2? Who will operate the new aircraft? What is the seating capacity of the new jets?
Fleet Modernization and Order Details
The Passenger Experience
Sustainability and Climate Targets
Meeting SBTi Goals
Broader Fleet Strategy and Operations
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Deliveries of the firm orders are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2027, with three aircraft expected that year.
The E195-E2 jets are planned to be operated by Nordic Regional Airlines (Norra), Finnair’s regional joint-venture partner.
The aircraft will be configured with 134 seats in a 2-2 layout, meaning there will be no middle seats.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer
Commercial Aviation
British Airways Announces Winter 2026 Expansion with New Routes
British Airways grows winter 2026 long-haul network by 9%, adding Melbourne and Colombo plus increased flights to key leisure destinations.
British Airways has announced a significant expansion of its winter 2026 schedule, featuring a nine percent growth in its long-haul route network compared to the previous year. According to an official press release from the airlines, the expansion introduces two new destinations, Melbourne, Australia, and Colombo, Sri Lanka, alongside increased frequencies on several popular leisure routes.
The network adjustments come as the carrier responds to shifting global travel demands, including short-term capacity increases to Asian destinations due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East. We note that the airline is actively monitoring customer search trends, which show a marked increase in interest for alternative getaways in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean.
With these changes, British Airways aims to bolster its long-haul leisure offerings while navigating regional disruptions. The new routes and frequency boosts reflect a strategic investment in high-demand markets for the upcoming winter season.
The centerpiece of the winter 2026 expansion is the addition of two major long-haul routes. Based on the company’s announcement, flights to Melbourne will commence on January 9, 2027. This year-round service will operate daily from London Heathrow via Kuala Lumpur, strategically timed ahead of the Australian Open and the Melbourne Grand Prix. Return fares for the Melbourne route start at £1,130.
Additionally, British Airways will launch a seasonal winter service to Colombo, Sri Lanka, starting October 23, 2026. The airline stated that this route will operate three times per week from London Gatwick, offering direct access to the Indian Ocean destination with return fares starting from £620.
Beyond new destinations, the press release details increased flight frequencies across several existing routes. A third daily flight from London Heathrow to Cape Town, South Africa, is scheduled to begin in December. Furthermore, flights from Heathrow to Haneda in Tokyo will increase to double daily starting at the end of March and continuing through the winter schedule.
The Caribbean and Americas will also see enhanced service. A new daily flight to Barbados from London Gatwick will launch on October 25, complementing the existing Heathrow service. Other notable increases include San José, Costa Rica, moving to London Heathrow with five flights per week, and Kingston, Jamaica, increasing to four weekly flights from Gatwick. In response to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, British Airways has made short-term network adjustments. The airline reported adding seven extra return services to Bangkok and Singapore in recent weeks, providing more than 3,300 additional seats between March 10 and March 19.
Conversely, the carrier has extended its temporary reduction of flights to the Middle East. According to the release, flights to Amman, Bahrain, Dubai, and Tel Aviv are canceled up to and including May 31, while flights to Doha are canceled until April 30.
“We’re delighted to announce sizeable growth to our flying schedule for winter 2026, including two notable new destinations that I’m confident will prove popular with our customers. We’re also increasing services across several high-demand routes around the world. Together, these changes represent a significant investment in our long-haul leisure network, adding even more options and choice for our customers.”
We observe that British Airways is strategically pivoting its capacity away from the Middle East and toward more stable, high-demand leisure markets in the Caribbean, Indian Ocean, and Asia-Pacific regions. The nine percent growth in long-haul operations indicates a robust recovery and confidence in long-haul leisure travel.
The decision to route the new Melbourne service via Kuala Lumpur is a practical use of existing network infrastructure, allowing the airline to tap into the lucrative Australian market without the need for ultra-long-haul direct flights. Furthermore, the surge in holiday searches reported by the airline, such as a 63 percent increase for Antigua and a 50 percent increase for Gran Canaria, suggests that consumers are actively seeking alternative winter sun destinations amidst geopolitical uncertainties.
According to the airline, flights to Colombo will launch on October 23, 2026, while the new service to Melbourne will begin on January 9, 2027.
The carrier has canceled flights to Amman, Bahrain, Dubai, and Tel Aviv through May 31, and to Doha until April 30. To accommodate displaced demand, they have added extra flights to Bangkok and Singapore.
British Airways Unveils Major Winter 2026 Expansion, Adding Melbourne and Colombo
New Long-Haul Destinations: Melbourne and Colombo
Frequency Boosts and Short-Term Adjustments
Expanding Popular Leisure Routes
Middle East Disruptions and Asian Capacity Increases
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new flights to Melbourne and Colombo start?
How is British Airways adjusting its schedule due to the Middle East conflict?
Sources
Photo Credit: British Airways
Route Development
American Airlines Unveils Terminal C Upgrades at Dallas Fort Worth Airport
American Airlines announces nine new gates and passenger amenities in Terminal C as part of a multiyear modernization at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
This article is based on an official press release from American Airlines.
American Airlines is pulling back the curtain on its multiyear modernization efforts at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), highlighting significant upgrades coming to the facility. In a recent company press release, the airline detailed the upcoming Terminal C pier, which promises to deliver a smoother travel experience for millions of passengers.
As the carrier celebrates its centennial year in 2026, it is investing billions of dollars into its hometown airport and largest hub. We are seeing a concerted effort by the airline to improve operational resilience and passenger comfort at a critical juncture for the aviation industry.
The newly announced enhancements are part of a broader communication campaign designed to keep travelers informed as various construction milestones are reached at DFW.
According to the official press release, the new Terminal C pier will introduce nine new gates to the DFW hub. This expansion is not just about increasing capacity; it is heavily focused on the passenger experience. The airline notes that the pier will feature new concessions and updated seating arrangements designed for modern travelers.
Additionally, American Airlines highlighted the implementation of a “game-changing bag storage system.” While specific technical details of the baggage system were not fully disclosed in the release, the upgrade aims to streamline luggage handling and reduce connection friction for passengers transiting through the busy Texas hub.
In the release’s accompanying multimedia notes, the airline emphasized the core motivation behind the project:
“The investments in Terminal C are important to enhancing the experience for our customers and team members.”
This sentiment was echoed by Rich Ashlin, American’s Vice President of DFW Hub Operations, who provided a sneak peek of the facilities in the airline’s latest promotional materials. To showcase these developments, American Airlines has launched a shortform video and podcast series titled “Forever Forward at DFW.” The series is intended to take viewers behind the scenes of the extensive construction and modernization projects currently underway.
The press release states that DFW hosts more passengers than any other airport in the American Airlines network. Because of this immense volume, the billions of dollars being invested are crucial for providing schedule certainty and improving the hub’s resilience against severe weather and other operational disruptions.
By bringing customers along for the journey, the airline hopes to build anticipation and demonstrate its long-standing commitment to the Texas region and its broader global network.
As American Airlines marks its 100th anniversary in 2026, securing the operational efficiency of its primary DFW hub is a strategic imperative. The airline currently operates more than 6,000 daily flights globally, serving over 200 million customers annually. A significant portion of that traffic flows directly through Dallas Fort Worth.
We view the Terminal C pier expansion, and the accompanying transparency campaign, as a proactive measure to manage passenger expectations during a period of heavy construction. By framing the disruptions as necessary steps toward a modernized future, American Airlines is working to maintain brand loyalty while future-proofing its most vital infrastructure against increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
How many new gates are being added to Terminal C at DFW? What other amenities are included in the Terminal C upgrade? What is “Forever Forward at DFW”?
Upgrades at Terminal C
New Gates and Passenger Amenities
The “Forever Forward” Initiative
Modernizing the Flagship Hub
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the American Airlines press release, the new Terminal C pier will bring nine new gates to the airport.
The expansion includes new concessions, updated seating, and a new bag storage system.
It is a shortform video and podcast series created by American Airlines to document the multiyear, multibillion-dollar modernization of its Dallas Fort Worth hub.Sources
Photo Credit: American Airlines
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