Philippine Airlines Expands Service to North America

The carrier is adding flights on three popular routes.

Zach Vasile

Monday, July 06, 2026 at 11:10 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Philippine Airlines aircraft. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Philippine Airlines is adding flights on three busy routes between the Philippines and the U.S. and Canada.

Starting this fall, the carrier will expand service between Manila and New York-JFK, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Manila to Vancouver will increase from seven to 10 weekly flights, effective Nov. 17.

Manila to Toronto will increase from three to four weekly flights, effective Dec. 2.

Manila to JFK will increase from three to four weekly flights effective Dec. 2, with a fifth weekly flight during the peak December 2026-January 2027 holiday travel season.

Additional New York and Toronto flights will initially use Airbus A350-900 aircraft before transitioning to new A350-1000s. The -1000 will also begin serving San Francisco beginning in August, officials said.

Philippines Airlines, often abbreviated as PAL, said the new flights will help meet consumer demand, give travelers more flexibility, and strengthen connectivity to onward destinations both in North America – though the airline’s partnerships with American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and WestJet – and in Southeast Asia.

“North America continues to be one of Philippine Airlines’ most important markets,” President Richard Nuttall said in a news release. “As travel demand grows, these additional flights strengthen our position as the preferred nonstop carrier between the Philippines and North America whilst providing our customers with greater choice, improved connectivity, and more opportunities to travel, do business, and reconnect with family and loved ones.”

Zach Vasile

Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of commercial aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.

Frontier Adds Eight Former Spirit Routes

The connections launched Sunday and Monday.

Zach Vasile

Monday, July 06, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Frontier A321 in Las Vegas. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Frontier this week launched eight new domestic routes formerly operated by its now-defunct competitor, Spirit Airlines.

Most of the new connections came online Sunday. They are Boston to Orlando, Florida; Dallas/Fort Worth to New Orleans; Detroit to Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Detroit to Philadelphia; Las Vegas to Kansas City; Orlando to Memphis, Tennessee; and Orlando to Richmond, Virginia.

Another route, Detroit to Las Vegas, will start on Monday.

“We are pleased to grow our service across the country to ensure low-cost flight options remain available to consumers as they plan their travel this summer and beyond,” Josh Flyr, vice president of network and operations design at Frontier, said in a news release.

Following Spirit’s collapse in early May, Frontier said it would expand its presence in former Spirit markets, including Orlando, Las Vegas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Fort Lauderdale, and Detroit. Route information, however, was not released at the time.

Frontier officials have said they expect Spirit’s demise to help lift revenue per available seat mile by between 3% and 5%.

Zach Vasile

Livery of the Week: Biman Bangladesh Airlines

The flag carrier’s iconic bird emblem has remained a fixture of its identity for more than five decades.

Ryan Ewing

Friday, July 03, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

A Biman Bangladesh Boeing 787 (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Katie Zera)

Editor’s Note: AirlineGeeks is proud to present our ‘Livery of the Week’ series. Every Friday, a team member will share an airline livery, which can be from the past, present, or even a special scheme. Some airline liveries are works of art. The complexity associated with painting around critical flight components and the added weight requires outside-the-box thinking from designers. The average airliner can cost upwards of $200,000 to repaint, creating a separate aircraft repainting industry as a result.

Have an idea for a livery that we should highlight? Drop us a line.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ standard livery is built around the Balaka, or migratory stork, a symbol that has been synonymous with the airline since its founding in 1972. Displayed prominently on the tail in bright red, the stylized bird has become one of the most recognizable airline logos in South Asia.

The Balaka is positioned against a white vertical stabilizer, creating a sharp contrast that draws attention to the emblem. The symbol represents movement and long-distance travel, reflecting both Bangladesh’s aviation ambitions and the airline’s role in connecting the country with destinations across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

The fuselage follows a clean, understated layout. A green cheatline runs the length of the aircraft beneath the cabin windows, while “Biman Bangladesh Airlines” titles appear near the forward fuselage in both English and Bengali. The use of green and red mirrors the colors of Bangladesh’s national flag.

A Boeing 787 taxis at Paine Field.
(Photo: AirlineGeeks | Katie Zera)

The current version of the livery was introduced as Biman modernized its fleet with Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 737 aircraft. While the design has been refined over the years, the airline retained the Balaka emblem, ensuring continuity with a brand that has represented Bangladesh for more than half a century.

The livery is applied consistently across Biman’s fleet of Boeing 777s, 787 Dreamliners, and 737-800s. Although the proportions vary between narrowbody and widebody aircraft, the placement of the Balaka, cheatline, and bilingual titles remains largely unchanged.

Unlike many modern airline liveries that emphasize abstract graphics or minimalist branding, Biman’s design places a single national symbol at its center. The result is a straightforward but distinctive livery that has endured through multiple fleet generations while remaining closely tied to the airline’s heritage.

Looking for a new airplane model? Head over to our friends at the Midwest Model Store for a wide selection of airlines and liveries.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com in February 2013 and has spent more than a decade covering the airline business. His work has been featured by CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. His aviation experience spans airport operations, Part 135 regulatory compliance, and airline crew workforce planning, along with time behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 and interviews with airline executives. Ryan now serves as Group President of Firecrown Media’s Aviation Group. He holds a B.S. in Air Transportation Management and an MBA from Arizona State University and teaches Airline Management at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Delta Pilots Warn of Flight Delays, Cancellations This Summer

The carrier’s ALPA chapter is negotiating a new contract.

Zach Vasile

Thursday, July 02, 2026 at 02:35 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Delta Airbus A321neo. (Photo: Shutterstock | Kevin Hackert)

Delta pilots represented by the Air Line Pilots Association have launched a public website warning customers of likely delays and cancellations this summer.

The website, deltapilotscare.com, contains a message from the pilots to travelers stressing that they “will continue to prioritize safety” while also calling attention to potential scheduling and operational challenges tied to thunderstorms, staffing shortages, and maintenance work.

“We have been working on our days off in record numbers to help you get to your destination,” the statement reads. “We empathize and share in your frustration over the delays, cancellations, and disrupted travel plans you experienced. We agree; it is unacceptable.”

The website includes a long list of travel recommendations, including booking the first flight of the day, using the Fly Delta app, and enrolling in programs such as TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry to expedite security screenings and customs. A video near the top of the page advises passengers of their rights if their flight is delayed or cancelled.

ALPA’s Delta Master Executive Council announced the website’s debut this week as the chapter enters negotiations for a new contract with the airline. The tactic is not uncommon in the industry – other work groups at other airlines have used standalone temporary websites to communicate with the public during contract discussions and, on occasion, voice direct criticisms of their employer.

It is also possible that the pilots are looking to preempt and redirect customer frustration toward Delta if reliability falters during the summer travel period.

“Delta has built a reputation on being a premium brand,” Eric Criswell, chairman of the Delta MEC, said in a news release. “The Delta pilots want to do our part to ensure our passengers continue to receive the service they’ve come to expect when flying on Delta. Our customers deserve a reliable airline, and pilots do, too.”

A contract opener released in April shows which areas the MEC will prioritize in negotiations, specifically “industry-leading” pay, enhanced scope protections, higher company contributions to retirement, and additional days eligible for holiday pay. The pilots also listed a number of desired quality of life improvements, such as improved deadhead provisions, higher-quality layover hotels, and increased schedule flexibility.

The pilots’ contract becomes amendable at the end of the year.

The MEC said deltapilotscare.com will be updated throughout the summer with additional tips and guidance.

Zach Vasile

Report: Delta Looks to Acquire Former Spirit Gates in Atlanta

The carrier is offering $12 million.

Zach Vasile

Thursday, July 02, 2026 at 10:35 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Delta aircraft in Atlanta. (Photo: Markus Mainka | Shutterstock)

Delta is looking to take over the gates formerly used by Spirit at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

WSB-TV reported Wednesday that the carrier is offering $12 million for the two gates, C4 and C6. The station cited documents filed in Spirit’s ongoing bankruptcy and liquidation case.

According to the filing, Spirit is in favor of the transaction and believes Delta’s offer is the best it will get.

“The debtors have determined, in their reasonable business judgment and in consultation with their advisors, that entering into the assignment agreement with Delta would yield the highest or otherwise best offer for the use and lease agreement and will provide a greater recovery for their estates than any known or practicably available alternative,” the documents state.

The deal will need to be approved by the federal court overseeing Spirit’s wind-down.

In a statement provided to WSB-TV, Delta acknowledged that it bid for the gates and said it will work with the city of Atlanta “to ensure its facilities are used in a way that best supports customers and sustains Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport’s position as a leading global gateway.”

The carrier did not say how the two gates would be used if the sale goes through.

Spirit ceased operations on May 2, but a small core of employees is continuing to oversee the sale of the company’s assets, including airport gates, aircraft, and equipment. Money generated from those sales will be paid to the defunct airline’s creditors.

Zach Vasile

American Resumes Route to Japan

Flights will commence in March 2027.

Zach Vasile

Wednesday, July 01, 2026 at 03:49 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

An American 787-9 Dreamliner. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

American Airlines is adding a long-haul route from its hub at Chicago O’Hare that was last served in 2020.

Starting March 27, 2027, the carrier will connect O’Hare with Tokyo Narita. Flights will operate daily using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

American said its partnership with Japan Airlines will allow for convenient one-stop journeys to destinations in Asia beyond Tokyo. American’s flights will also be timed for onward connections from Tokyo via Japan Airlines to destinations such as Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

“Built on the strong foundation of our 100-year history in Chicago and an incredible partnership with Japan Airlines, this new service is a testament to our continued commitment to make our hub stronger, broaden choices for customers, and keep Chicago competitive on the world stage,” American CEO Robert Isom said in a news release.

American also said it will add two domestic connections from O’Hare later this year, to Charlottesville, Virginia, and Ontario, California. Service to Charlottesville will begin in November, while flights to Ontario will commence in December.

Zach Vasile

British Airways to Redevelop Newark Lounge

The space will reopen in 2027, officials said.

Zach Vasile

Wednesday, July 01, 2026 at 02:11 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A British Airways Boeing 777 at London Heathrow. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

British Airways said Wednesday that it will invest $15 million to redevelop its lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport.

The overhaul, led by architecture and design firm Gensler, will add a new full-service bar, enhance existing dining and food service areas, and significantly upgrade the lounge’s Concorde dining space, officials said. Concorde dining rooms are open only to select British Airways customers, including those flying First, or Gold members of the British Airways Club.

Also in the works are refurbished bathrooms and shower facilities, new furniture and finishes inspired by New Jersey, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the runway.

The project is expected to begin later this year and finish in 2027, when the lounge will reopen to customers.

British Airways said it has earmarked funds for similar projects at Boston Logan and San Francisco, but provided no further details.

The airline serves over 20 destinations in the U.S. and has lounges in eight U.S. airports.

Zach Vasile

Hawaiian Debuts Oneworld Livery

The carrier formally joined the alliance in April.

Zach Vasile

Wednesday, July 01, 2026 at 11:30 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Hawaiian Airlines' new oneworld livery. (Photo: Hawaiian Airlines)

Hawaiian Airlines on Tuesday unveiled a new aircraft livery celebrating its membership in the oneworld alliance.

The design, applied to an Airbus A330, includes a purple oneworld mark and the phrase “Aloha a puni ka honua,” which means “Aloha all around the world.” As with every Hawaiian widebody jet, the famous Pualani logo appears on the tail assembly, and a stylized maile lei wraps around the fuselage.

“This livery is a powerful symbol of what it means for Hawaiian Airlines to be part of the oneworld alliance – sharing aloha, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi [the Hawaiian language], and our deep connection to Hawaii with more people around the globe,” Alisa Onishi, Hawaiian’s managing director of marketing, said in a news release. “Language is essential to preserving Hawaii’s culture. By placing ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi on our aircraft, we honor our heritage and carry the voice of Hawaii everywhere we fly.”

Hawaiian Airlines’ new oneworld livery. (Photo: Hawaiian Airlines)

Officials did not say when the new livery will enter service or where it will operate.

Hawaiian joined oneworld in April.

Zach Vasile

American to Open ‘Grab and Go’ Lounge at JFK

The 3,700-square-foot space will offer coffee, snacks, and meals.

Zach Vasile

Wednesday, July 01, 2026 at 10:27 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

An American Boeing 777-200 lifts off from New York's JFK. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Ben Suskind)

American Airlines is bringing its new “grab and go” airport lounge concept to New York-JFK.

The carrier announced Tuesday that it will open a 3,700-square-foot Provisions by Admirals Club lounge in Terminal 8 within Concourse B, between gates 12 and 14. The space will offer a more streamlined experience than a typical airport lounge, officials said, with speed, flow, and flexibility prioritized.

Provisions at JFK will feature a barista bar with hot and cold coffee drinks and a self-serve beverage station. Hot and cold snacks and full meals will also be available, with breakfast-specific items, such as pastries and yogurt, served until 11 a.m.

A rendering of the planned lounge at JFK. (Credit: American Airlines)

The carrier did not say when the lounge will open to customers.

“JFK is a busy hub where our customers make a lot of connections, and this space allows us to better match the pace of our customers’ journeys,” American Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden said in a news release. “The Provisions by Admirals Club space creates a more flexible lounge experience – one that combines thoughtful design, elevated beverages, and quick access to fresh options, all while helping serve more customers, more efficiently.”

American currently operates joint premium lounges in Terminal 8 above gates 12 and 14, and an Admirals Club lounge in Concourse C.

The airline opened its first Provisions by Admirals Club lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina in 2025.

Zach Vasile

How to Track Southwest’s ‘Independence One’

Planespotters may notice something different about how the aircraft appears on FlightAware.

Zach Vasile

Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 04:37 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Southwest's "Independence One" livery. (Photo: Southwest Airlines)

Southwest and flight-tracking website FlightAware are making it easier for planespotters and fans to follow the carrier’s new patriotic livery, Independence One.

Starting Tuesday and continuing through Sept. 9, FlightAware will represent the specially painted aircraft – a Boeing 737 MAX 8 – with a custom icon of 13 stars encircling a red-white-and-blue jet.

Southwest unveiled Independence One on April 27, and it entered service two days later with a flight from Dallas/Fort Worth to Philadelphia. It was designed specifically for the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations, which are now underway in Washington, D.C., and across the U.S.

Fittingly, the aircraft is registered as N1776R.

“Southwest Airlines is proud to honor this incredible milestone for America with Independence One, and since we unveiled the new livery in April, we’ve seen a lot of Heart for the design and interest in where it is flying,” Whitney Eichinger, Southwest’s senior vice president and chief communications officer, said in a news release. “We are excited to partner with FlightAware to make tracking our new livery easier, whether you are flying Southwest or plane spotting from the ground.”

Independence One features long red, white, and blue stripes down the length of its fuselage and tail assembly; 13 stars for the original colonies; circles of stars on each engine cowling, recalling the Betsy Ross flag; the date “1776” written in giant quill script; and the phrase “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” taken from the Declaration of Independence.

Independence One is one of three U.S.-themed aircraft in Southwest’s fleet, the others being “Freedom One,” which was introduced in 2021, and the more recent “Liberty One.”

Zach Vasile