Global Airlines, the new all-A380 airline, has announced a new partnership with Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW), a major MRO specialist. This collaboration has been sealed with a multi-million Euro agreement. It marks a crucial milestone in preparing Global Airlines’ first fully acquired aircraft for commercial service.
Under the agreement, EFW will perform the base maintenance inspection on the carrier’s first Airbus A380. This will enable a return to commercial service for Global’s first aircraft, 9H-GLOBL.
The widebody Airbus A380 is set to embark on a journey to Dresden, Germany. Here, it will undergo comprehensive maintenance procedures. These engineering operations include a series of mandatory inspections and component replacements.
Following this maintenance phase, the A380 will continue through an extensive interior overhaul. This will then lay the foundation for its commencement of commercial operations, scheduled for 2025.
9H-GLOBL: The Journey to Date
The journey of 9H-GLOBL has already been remarkable. On May 1, the aircraft completed a transcontinental flight from the Mojave Desert in California to Prestwick International Airport in Scotland.
This re-positioning flight was the transition from storage to active preparation for service. The Global Airlines team has carried out extensive return-to-service work on the iconic aircraft as the project advances to its next crucial phase.
The airline has forged a strong alliance with EFW and is collaborating closely with aerospace giant Airbus. Together, they are planning the flight conditions and defining the complex tasks required for major maintenance.
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James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines, shared his enthusiasm about this latest development. “Our partnership with EFW represents a monumental leap forward in our quest to see our first A380 take to the skies.”
“The progress of 9H-GLOBL’s journey back to active service is truly exciting. I’m particularly thrilled about its upcoming flight to Dresden for this critical work. Over the past year, we’ve successfully navigated significant challenges. Now we’re rapidly advancing on multiple fronts – our proposition, partnerships, team, and operational readiness are all gaining momentum.”
“This collaboration with EFW is a testament to our progress and determination. I’m eagerly looking forward to visiting Dresden and witnessing firsthand the transformative work being carried out on our aircraft.”
Echoing these observations, Jordi Boto, CEO of EFW, offered his company’s perspective. “We’re thrilled to play a part in the renaissance of the A380.”
“Our team has a wealth of experience in servicing this exceptional aircraft, and we’re excited to reactivate our A380 MRO capabilities. Supporting Global Airlines with their first A380 is an honor, and we’re looking forward to contributing to the return of more of these magnificent planes to the skies.”
Next Steps
As the project moves forward, Global Airlines is working in close coordination with Airbus and a network of specialized partners. Their collective focus is on finalizing the intricate planning required for 9H-GLOBL’s upcoming flight to Dresden.
Once the comprehensive work in Dresden is complete, the A380 will continue its journey of transformation. The next stop will be another European location, where the aircraft will undergo an extensive cabin refurbishment.
This interior makeover supports Global Airlines’ vision of providing an unparalleled travel experience, blending modern luxury with the romance of aviation’s golden age.
About Global Airlines
Global Airlines, officially launched in 2023 and headquartered in London, represents a bold new chapter in commercial aviation. CEO James Asquith leads the new venture, backed by a global team of aviation experts and investors.
As it stands, the airline looks poised to make a significant impact on the industry. With one A380 already acquired and plans for fleet expansion underway, Global Airlines seeks to redefine luxury air travel when it launches its inaugural passenger flight in 2025.
A singular vision drives Global Airlines at its core: to provide the “best way to fly.” The golden age of travel inspires this ambitious goal, which Global Airlines reimagines for the modern era.
Utilizing the beloved A380 aircraft, Global Airlines aims to create a new standard in air travel – one that combines comfort, luxury, and efficiency in perfect harmony.
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