ALPA Urges Spirit Bondholders to Continue Support

The pilots union warned that a shutdown would be disastrous for the airline’s employees and for Florida.

Zach Vasile

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 04:15 PM ET

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Ryan Ewing

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

The Air Line Pilots Association is calling on Spirit’s bondholders to continue funding the struggling carrier as it works to restructure and emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

In a letter to the bondholders made public on Tuesday, the pilots union highlighted the likely impact on Spirit’s 15,000 employees and the South Florida region if the carrier were to fold.

“Spirit may be in Chapter 11, but bankruptcy does not equate to collapse,” the letter states. “This process exists to allow companies to restructure their debt, stabilize operations, and emerge stronger. That is the purpose of this process.”

The message was aimed at Miami-based Citadel and other Spirit backers. Bloomberg reported this week that the bondholders are considering whether to continue their support, a decision that could dictate the future of the airline.

The letter was signed by ALPA President Jason Ambrosi and Ryan P. Muller, chairman of the Spirit Airlines ALPA Master Executive Council.

The union noted that Spirit’s pilots and flight attendants have made about $100 million in concessions during the bankruptcy process and asked the bondholders to show similar resolve.

“Liquidation would not be just a business outcome,” ALPA wrote. “It would mean a collapse that would eliminate jobs and permanently disrupt a community. If Spirit is liquidated, thousands of employees will lose their livelihoods. South Florida will lose one of its most important homegrown aviation employers. Families will be displaced. Small businesses connected to travel and aviation will suffer immediate harm. The regional and national ripple effects will be real and long-lasting.”

Spirit’s survival does not require “new ideas,” the union argued, only “honoring commitments” already made.

Spirit entered bankruptcy for a second time in August. Under the auspices of a U.S. bankruptcy court, it has drawn on funds from a debtor-in-possession financing facility of up to $475 million backed by the bondholders.

Over the last six months the carrier has laid off staff, furloughed pilots, and cut routes to reduce expenses and streamline operations.

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.

United Adds Economy Meal Orders to Website, Mobile App

The carrier is moving to preorder-only for United Economy food options.

Zach Vasile

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 11:30 AM ET

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Ryan Ewing

A United 767-300. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Passengers flying in United’s economy class can now order in-flight food before they ever step foot on an airplane.

The carrier said Wednesday that United Economy meal options like burgers, sandwiches, and snack boxes can be ordered in advance through its website, united.com, and its mobile app. The preorder option is available on flights over 1,190 miles within the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Starting March 1, online meal preorders will replace in-flight orders for all United Economy passengers, the airline said, though snack boxes, packaged snacks, and beverages will still be available for purchase on board.

United officials said the move to preorders will make United’s food and beverage operation more efficient and reduce waste.

“Preordering is a win for everyone – customers board the plane knowing they’ll get the meal they want, our catering partners know exactly how much food to prepare for each flight, and it helps our operation run even more smoothly and reduce food waste,” Aaron McMillan, United’s managing director of hospitality programs, said in a news release.

Passengers can place their order beginning five days and up to 24 hours before departure.

United said it plans to add meal choices to the preorder menu this summer, including salads, gourmet sandwiches, and wraps. Preorder for “exclusive premium beverage options” is expected to start later this year.

United first introduced preorder in its mobile app for premium cabins in 2021.

Zach Vasile

Ryanair Rules Out Starlink

The carrier’s CEO cited drag from antennas and the comparatively short length of flights.

Zach Vasile

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 09:45 AM ET

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Ryan Ewing

A Ryanair 737 taxiing in London. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Irish ultra-low-cost carrier Ryanair this week said it will not equip its aircraft with Starlink satellite internet.

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary told Reuters that drag created by Starlink antennas imposes a “2% fuel penalty.” He also cited the comparatively short duration of a typical Ryanair flight.

“We don’t think our passengers are willing to pay for WiFi for an average one-hour flight,” he said.

O’Leary’s statement came the same day Ryanair competitor Lufthansa Group announced plans to install Starlink across its mainline and subsidiary fleets. The company expects to start installations later this year.

A number of airlines have signed deals with Starlink for satellite-based internet service over the last two years, including United, Alaska Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Air France. Lufthansa Group is so far the largest airline group in Europe to announce plans to upgrade its fleet with the technology.

Ryanair is the largest airline in Europe based on passenger volume and fleet size. It operates almost entirely within Europe, though it also serves destinations in North Africa, Turkey, Cyprus, and Jordan.

Zach Vasile

United Returns to Midwest Airport

The carrier will resume service there in May.

Zach Vasile

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 03:45 PM ET

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Ryan Ewing

A United CRJ aircraft. (Photo: Shutterstock | BUI LE MANH HUNG)

United is set to restart service at a small Midwest airport after a four-year pause.

Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee announced that United will return on May 21, with service to Chicago O’Hare.

According to WSAW, flights will operate three times daily.

United suspended flights to and from Central Wisconsin Airport in January 2022, citing a shortage of pilots and other workers.

“The flights had always been well served by the community, well utilized by the community, and it was really disappointing to see them leave,” Mark Cihlar, assistant director of Central Wisconsin Airport, told WSAW on Monday.

Central Wisconsin Airport is currently served by Delta and American. Delta offers service to Minneapolis/St. Paul, while American connects to Chicago O’Hare, setting up a competition with United’s new route.

Zach Vasile

Lufthansa Group to Deploy Starlink WiFi Across All Airlines

Installations will start later this year.

Zach Vasile

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 01:39 PM ET

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Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Lufthansa Airbus A321. (Photo: Shutterstock | Robert Buchel)

Lufthansa Group is partnering with Starlink to make high-speed wireless internet available on all 850-plus aircraft across its mainline and subsidiary airlines.

In a statement, the company said Starlink-enabled WiFi will be gradually introduced starting as early as the second half of this year. Lufthansa expects to complete the rollout by 2029.

Starlink’s higher bandwidth and speed will enable streaming, cloud-based work, and other high-speed applications during flights, airline officials said. The service will be free for all members of Lufthansa’s frequent flyer and Travel ID programs.

“The Lufthansa Group is taking the next step and setting an essential milestone for the premium travel experience of our customers,” Dieter Vranckx, the company’s chief communications officer, said in a news release. “Connectivity on board plays an important role today, and with Starlink, we are not only investing in the best product on the market, but also in the satisfaction of our passengers.”

Lufthansa Group owns or has a stake in Lufthansa, Air Dolomiti, Austrian, Brussels, Discover Airlines, Eurowings, ITA Airways, Lufthansa CityLine, Lufthansa City Airlines, SunExpress, and SWISS.

Zach Vasile

JSX Plans Expansion of ATR Service

The carrier expects to be operating four of the type early this year.

Zach Vasile

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 01:20 PM ET

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Ryan Ewing

JSX's first ATR aircraft arrives at Dallas Love Field. (Photo: Adam Baker)

JSX said this week that it plans to have four ATR 42-600 aircraft in service early this year as it looks to connect more small and underserved airports.

The public charter operator took delivery of its first -600 aircraft late last year and in December began using it on flights between Santa Monica, California, and Las Vegas. The aircraft was put on display Monday at a joint ceremony involving both JSX and ATR at Santa Monica Airport.

“JSX is proud to partner with ATR to relaunch this highly capable aircraft in the United States passenger market,” JSX CEO Alex Wilcox said in a news release. “The ATR 42-600 is a game-changer for JSX, enabling us to expand our award-winning hop on service to thousands more airports across the U.S. while maintaining the premium experience our customers expect.”

The carrier said it will operate four ATR 42-600s in early 2026, each with a 30-seat configuration.

ATR recently secured FAA approval for a modification that allows operations at high-altitude airports. The authorization “ensures JSX can expand its network to challenging airports,” the two companies said.

ATR leaders said they see “strong potential in the U.S. market” as aging 50-seat regional aircraft are retired.

JSX expects to take delivery of four ATR 42-600 aircraft, with options for up to 25 more. The turboprop airplanes allow access to smaller airports with shorter runways that JSX’s main fleet, consisting of Embraer E135s and E145s, cannot use.

Zach Vasile

Delta Employees to Get Over Four Weeks of Extra Pay

The carrier is set to distribute $1.3 billion next month through its profit-sharing program.

Zach Vasile

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

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Ryan Ewing

A Delta A220 at Paine Field. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Katie Zera)

Delta employees are in line to receive an average of over four weeks of extra pay as part of the airline’s profit-sharing program.

The carrier announced Tuesday that about $1.3 billion will be distributed to workers on Feb. 13, Delta’s “Profit Sharing Day.”

“The passion and dedication of Delta people carried us through 2025 and will continue to propel us forward,” Allison Ausband, Delta’s chief people officer, said in a news release. “Their unwavering focus on safety and care is what builds trust and a deep loyalty for customers, and continued success for Delta.”

This year’s bonus is among the largest payouts in the company’s history, officials said.

Under the airline’s profit-sharing model, employees receive 10% of the first $2.5 billion the airline earns and 20% above $2.5 billion.

Last year, Delta’s payouts from profit-sharing averaged about five weeks’ salary.

Zach Vasile

Delta Adds 787 Dreamliner to Its Fleet

The carrier ordered 30 787s, with options for 30 more.

Zach Vasile

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 09:15 AM ET

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Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Delta 787 rendering. (Photo: Delta)

Delta this week placed its first direct order for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

The airline said Tuesday that it ordered 30 787-10s, the largest Dreamliner variant. Separately, Boeing stated that Delta’s order includes options for up to 30 more 787s, which if exercised, would bring the total order to 60 jets.

Delta officials said the new airplanes will help strengthen and grow international operations, specifically in transatlantic and South American markets.

“Delta is building the fleet for the future, enhancing the customer experience, driving operational improvements, and providing steady replacements for less efficient, older aircraft in the decade to come,” Delta CEO Ed Bastian said in a news release. “Most importantly, these aircraft will be operated by the best aviation professionals in the industry, providing Delta’s welcoming, elevated, and caring service to travelers worldwide.”

The airline selected GEnx engines to power the 787s.

A Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner testbed in North Charleston, S.C. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Chuyi Chuang)

The widebody aircraft will feature Delta One Suites and more Delta Premium Select and Delta Comfort seats, officials said. Delta Sync wireless internet will also be available.

“The 787 Dreamliner’s unmatched efficiency, range, and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta’s international expansion and fleet modernization,” Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said in a statement. “Our team looks forward to delivering new Dreamliners to Delta and supporting their commitments to provide an exceptional passenger experience and advance sustainability in aviation.”

Delta famously eschewed the 787 for years even as competitors embraced the type. In 2016, it canceled an order for 18 Dreamliners it inherited from its acquisition of Northwest Airlines, citing production delays and quality control problems at Boeing. At the time, Delta was pivoting toward Airbus for its long-haul needs and placing orders for the A330 and A350.

Delta’s order book with Boeing now stands at 130 aircraft. That figure includes commitments for 100 737 MAX jets, finalized in 2022.

Zach Vasile

PSA Completes Move to North Carolina

The airline opened its new headquarters in Charlotte on Monday.

Zach Vasile

Monday, January 12, 2026 at 03:45 PM ET

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Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

An American CRJ-900. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

American Airlines subsidiary PSA officially opened its new headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Monday.

The carrier moved its corporate office from Dayton, Ohio, and plans to have over 450 employees at its Charlotte campus. The headquarters is situated about two miles from American Airlines’ Charlotte Flight Training Center and five miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, where many PSA staff are based.

PSA is now the only Part 121 passenger carrier based in North Carolina, company leaders said.

“Because of what Charlotte offers, PSA has a stronger foundation for continued growth,” PSA President and CEO Dion Flannery said in a statement. “And we believe the benefit will be mutual, as the region will continue having reliable aviation partners, a top employer, and a responsible corporate citizen headquartered in its backyard.”

Of the 450 employees expected to be based in Charlotte, about 150 have relocated from Dayton and another 50 were already in Charlotte at other facilities. The other 250 positions are being filled by new hires.

PSA operates flights under the American Eagle brand. It directly supports four American Airlines hubs – Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Philadelphia, and Washington National.

A grand opening event at the headquarters in Charlotte will take place in March.

PSA will maintain a significant presence in Dayton, with hundreds of employees, including pilots, flight attendants, and technicians, based at the airline’s crew base and maintenance hangar at Dayton International Airport.

Zach Vasile

EVA Air Adds New U.S. Route

Service will start in July.

Zach Vasile

Monday, January 12, 2026 at 11:59 AM ET

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Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

An EVA Air Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (Photo: Shutterstock | eric1207cvb)

Taiwan’s EVA Air will launch a new nonstop route to the U.S. East Coast this summer.

The airline’s general manager said service between Taipei and Washington Dulles will start in July. EVA will operate the route four times a week using a Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

The executive’s comments were first reported by Chinese-language news website ETToday. As of Monday morning, the new route had not been announced on the carrier’s website.

No airline in the world currently connects Taipei and Washington, D.C.

The service will be among EVA’s longest, at around 7,600 miles.

EVA officials said they selected Washington Dulles because of the relatively large Asian diaspora population in the Washington, D.C., area, and because Dulles is a hub of fellow Star Alliance member United.

EVA currently serves nine destinations in North America, including Los Angeles, Chicago O’Hare, Toronto, and New York-JFK. Flights between Taipei and Dallas/Fort Worth began in October.

Andrew Su, EVA’s North America Head Office executive vice president, told AirlineGeeks late last year that the carrier was looking at adding destinations on the East Coast, even as competitors China Airlines and Starlux zeroed in on Phoenix, Arizona.

Zach Vasile