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 CO₂ 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
Commercial Aviation
United Airlines to Add 250 Planes with Premium Travel Focus by 2028
United Airlines plans to expand its fleet by 250+ planes by 2028, introducing new premium aircraft and enhanced passenger amenities.
This article is based on an official press release from United Airlines via PR Newswire.
United Airlines has unveiled a sweeping fleet expansion plan, announcing it expects to take delivery of more than 250 new aircraft by April 2028. According to the company’s press release, this represents the highest number of aircraft deliveries by any airline in a two-year period. The expansion heavily emphasizes “premiumization,” introducing bespoke aircraft subfleets and high-end amenities designed to attract lucrative business and luxury travelers.
The announcement, made on March 24, 2026, builds upon the carrier’s ongoing “United Next” strategy, which originally launched in 2021. Since the inception of that strategy, United reports it has added 326 Boeing and Airbus aircraft to its fleet, retrofitted 70 percent of its narrow-body planes, and increased its premium seat count per North American departure by 40 percent.
By introducing four distinct new aircraft configurations, including a custom transcontinental narrowbody and an ultra-premium long-haul widebody, United is signaling a definitive shift away from competing solely on basic ticket prices. Instead, the airline is focusing on decommoditizing the passenger experience through enhanced privacy, upgraded dining, and high-speed connectivity.
To cater to distinct market segments, United’s press release details the introduction of four specialized aircraft configurations, ranging from regional jets to international widebodies.
For domestic transcontinental routes, United is introducing the Airbus A321neo “Coastliner.” The airline has ordered 50 of these aircraft, with 40 expected to enter service by early 2028. Designed specifically for flights connecting Newark (EWR) to Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO), the Coastliner will feature 161 seats, including 20 Polaris lie-flat suites and 12 Premium Plus seats. Notably, the company states this is the first time it will offer a dedicated Premium Plus cabin on a narrowbody domestic flight. To further elevate the economy experience, United removed three standard seats to install a walk-up snack bar in the rear cabin. Domestic Polaris passengers on these routes will also receive access to United Polaris lounges.
For short-to-medium-haul international routes, United is bringing in the Airbus A321XLR to replace its aging Boeing 757 fleet. With 50 ordered and more than half expected by 2028, the 150-seat aircraft will feature 32 premium seats, 16 more than the 757s they replace. Like the Coastliner, the A321XLR will include an economy snack bar, but it will also feature functional privacy doors for its Polaris suites.
On the long-haul international front, United announced the Boeing 787-9 with an “Elevated” interior. The airline has ordered 47 of these widebodies, expecting 33 to fly with the new interior by 2028. The aircraft boasts 99 premium seats and debuts the “Polaris Studio”, eight exclusive front-row suites that are 25 percent larger than standard Polaris seats. According to the release, these studios feature privacy doors, a companion ottoman, a 27-inch 4K OLED screen, and an exclusive Ossetra caviar service. The inaugural flight for this aircraft is scheduled for April 22, 2026, from San Francisco to Singapore. At the regional level, United is partnering with SkyWest to operate the CRJ450. This reimagined 41-seat regional jet replaces traditional first-class overhead bins with a dedicated luggage closet, a design choice the airline says is intended to evoke a private jet environment for passengers connecting from smaller cities to hubs in Chicago and Denver.
Alongside the new hardware, United is overhauling its in-flight amenities and technological offerings. The airline confirmed it is rolling out high-speed, gate-to-gate Starlink satellite internet, which will be free for all MileagePlus members. United expects to install Starlink on all dual-cabin aircraft by the end of 2027.
In a unique culinary move, United announced a partnership with the Emmy-winning Netflix series Chef’s Table. Starting August 1, 2026, eleven renowned chefs will curate regionally-inspired meals for Polaris international flights. Additional premium cabin upgrades include Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, Perricone MD skincare kits, Meridian noise-canceling headphones, and 4K OLED screens with Bluetooth connectivity at every seat.
“This is another step in a decade-long journey that we’ve been on at United to de-commoditize the industry… to really try to win customer loyalty, make an airline that customers love to fly.” “Our collaboration with Chef’s Table shows how we’re leveraging our unique position as the world’s largest airline to deliver restaurant-quality moments in the sky.” We observe that United’s aggressive push into the premium market comes at a critical macroeconomic juncture for the aviation industry. Recent industry reports and executive warnings highlight that rising jet fuel prices, exacerbated by ongoing Middle East conflicts, pose a significant threat to airline profitability. CEO Scott Kirby recently noted that if oil remains above $100 a barrel, it could add up to $11 billion to United’s annual fuel bill.
By investing heavily in high-margin premium seating and exclusive amenities, United appears to be building a financial hedge against these volatile operational costs. Recent quarterly data indicates United’s premium revenue has increased by 9 to 11 percent, significantly outpacing basic economy growth. Furthermore, the introduction of the “Coastliner” effectively blurs the traditional lines between domestic and international travel standards. By offering widebody-grade luxury, such as lie-flat seats, premium economy, and lounge access, on single-aisle transcontinental routes, United is forcing competitors to rethink their own domestic premium products.
When do the new premium flights begin? Will the new Starlink Wi-Fi cost extra? What is the Polaris Studio? Sources: United Airlines PR Newswire
United Airlines Announces Massive 250-Plane Expansion Focused on Premium Travel
A New Era of Premium Aircraft Variants
The A321neo “Coastliner” and A321XLR
The “Elevated” Boeing 787-9 and CRJ450
Upgraded Passenger Amenities and Partnerships
— Scott Kirby, United Airlines CEO (via company press release)
— Andrew Nocella, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer (via company press release)
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The inaugural flight of the ultra-premium Boeing 787-9 “Elevated” is scheduled for April 22, 2026, flying from San Francisco to Singapore, followed by a London route on April 30. The A321neo “Coastliner” will begin flying transcontinental routes later this summer.
According to United, the gate-to-gate Starlink satellite internet will be provided free of charge to all MileagePlus members.
The Polaris Studio is a new, ultra-premium seating category located in the front row of the new Boeing 787-9 aircraft. These eight suites are 25 percent larger than standard Polaris seats and include privacy doors, companion seating, and exclusive dining options like caviar service.
Photo Credit: United Airlines
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
FAA Certifies Increased Takeoff Weight for Boeing 787-9 and 787-10
FAA approves higher maximum takeoff weight for Boeing 787-9 and 787-10, enabling greater payload and longer range for airlines.
This article is based on an official press release from Boeing, supplemented by industry research.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially certified an increased maximum takeoff weight (iMTOW) for Boeing’s 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliner models. According to a company press release dated March 23, 2026, the regulatory approval allows airline customers to carry additional payload or fly longer routes, enhancing the operational flexibility of the widebody jets.
The certification marks a significant milestone for the 787 program, which first entered commercial service 15 years ago in 2011 and has since seen more than 1,250 deliveries. Boeing engineers collaborated closely with the FAA and global regulators to validate structural loads, performance, and systems behavior at the higher weight limits before clearing the aircraft for commercial service.
Air New Zealand has been named the launch customer for the upgraded 787-9. The first jets built with the new iMTOW capability are currently progressing through final assembly, ticketing, and delivery activities, signaling an immediate rollout for Airlines looking to optimize their long-haul networks.
The iMTOW upgrade, previously referred to in industry circles as the 787IGW (Increased Gross Weight), delivers substantial performance boosts to both the -9 and -10 variants without sacrificing the family’s baseline fuel efficiency. According to Boeing’s official specifications, the enhancements are tailored to specific model sizes.
For the 787-9, the FAA certified a weight increase of approximately 10,000 pounds (4,540 kilograms). Supplemental industry data notes this brings the new maximum takeoff weight to 571,500 pounds (259.2 metric tons). This translates to an operational gain of about three metric tons of extra payload or more than 300 nautical miles (560 kilometers) of additional range.
The larger 787-10 receives an even greater boost. Boeing states the variant gains roughly 14,000 pounds (6,350 kilograms) in takeoff weight, reaching a new maximum of 574,000 pounds (260.3 metric tons). Operators can utilize this increase to carry about five metric tons of extra payload or fly an additional 400 nautical miles (740 kilometers).
Boeing confirmed that all 787-9 and 787-10 airplanes assembled as of December 2025 are structurally capable of handling the higher weight. However, the manufacturer is offering the iMTOW as an optional activation. Because a higher certified operating weight can trigger increased airport landing fees and alter route planning economics, airlines can choose to activate the capability at delivery or at a later date to best match their network needs. “We started this effort after airlines sent Boeing a clear message: they wanted greater flexibility. Some wanted the 787-10 to fly longer missions; others wanted the 787-9 to carry additional payload with range trade-offs. Boeing designed a solution that delivers both.”, John Murphy, 787 Chief Project Engineer, Boeing
Air New Zealand will be among the first global operators to utilize the iMTOW capability. The carrier’s first upgraded 787-9 recently rolled off the final assembly line in North Charleston, South Carolina, and is currently undergoing final inspections and flight tests.
The operational impact for Air New Zealand is expected to be significant. The airline operates several ultra-long-haul routes, including flights from Auckland to New York (JFK), Chicago, and Houston. Industry research highlights that the Auckland-JFK route, which spans 16 to 17.5 hours, has historically faced payload restrictions due to its extreme length. The iMTOW upgrade will allow the carrier to carry more passengers and cargo on these demanding routes, directly improving profitability.
“This upgrade gives us greater ability to carry additional payload on our ultra long-haul routes, an important enabler for our network ambitions, supporting trade, tourism and better connectivity for New Zealand.”, Baden Smith, General Manager of Strategy, Networks and Fleet, Air New Zealand
We view the FAA’s certification of the 787 iMTOW as a critical strategic maneuver for Boeing in its ongoing market battle with Airbus. The European manufacturer’s A350-900 and A350-1000 have traditionally held a distinct advantage in maximum payload and ultra-long-haul range, with the A350-1000 capable of flying up to 9,000 nautical miles. By increasing the takeoff weight of the 787 family, Boeing brings its widebody offerings much closer to parity. The 787-10, in particular, transforms into a highly viable competitor to the A350-900, offering airlines increased range and payload while maintaining the 787’s established fuel efficiency metrics.
While the iMTOW certification represents a forward-looking milestone, the 787 program continues to operate under strict regulatory oversight. According to recent public regulatory filings, the FAA issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) between March 12 and March 13, 2026, mandating inspections on certain older 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 aircraft.
The directive addresses historical manufacturing errors involving excessive “shim gaps” at the lower side-of-body splice plates, which could potentially lead to fatigue cracks in the primary wing structure. The mandate affects 17 U.S.-registered airplanes manufactured during a specific timeframe and requires repetitive ultrasonic and detailed visual inspections. Boeing has publicly supported the FAA mandate, noting that the global fleet remains safe for operations and emphasizing that the root cause of the shim gap issue was corrected in current production models long before the December 2025 iMTOW structural baseline.
iMTOW stands for increased maximum takeoff weight. It is a certified upgrade that allows an aircraft to take off at a heavier weight, enabling airlines to carry more passengers, cargo, or fuel for longer flights.
According to Boeing, all 787-9 and 787-10 airplanes assembled as of December 2025 are structurally capable of the higher weight. Airlines can choose to activate this capability based on their operational needs.
The 787-9 gains more than 300 nautical miles (560 kilometers) of additional range, while the 787-10 gains more than 400 nautical miles (740 kilometers), assuming the weight increase is allocated entirely to fuel rather than payload.
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
Implementation and Optional Activation
Launch Customer and Operational Impact
Industry Context and Regulatory Oversight
AirPro News analysis
Recent FAA Directives
Frequently Asked Questions
What is iMTOW?
Which aircraft are eligible for the 787 iMTOW upgrade?
How much extra range does the upgrade provide?
Sources
Photo Credit: Boeing
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
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