Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

Aircalin discloses order for two A350-900s

Aircalin, the international airline of the South Pacific French territory of New Caledonia, has disclosed an order with Airbus for two long-range A350-900 aircraft.

Copyright Airbus

Aircalin, the international airline of the South Pacific French territory of New Caledonia, has disclosed an order with Airbus for two long-range A350-900 aircraft.

This order will enable Aircalin to support fleet adaptation and the carrier's long haul network expansion.

Currently the airline’s widebody fleet comprises two A330neo aircraft. The airline plans to configure its A350s in a three class premium layout offering accommodation for more than 320 passengers. This would include an enlarged business class and represent an increase in capacity of 15% compared with the A330neo.  

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

“As a continuation of our long-standing partnership with Airbus, we have selected the A350-900 to join our fleet in the coming years. These aircraft are essential for operating our recently inaugurated Nouméa-Paris via Bangkok route. They will open the doors to very long-haul flights and enable Aircalin to pursue its development strategy,” said Georges Selefen, Aircalin CEO.

“We are pleased with Aircalin’s decision to add the A350 to its fleet. This will allow Aircalin  to further develop its potential and open up more long haul routes. The order is yet another endorsement of the A350 as the undisputed long-range leader, bringing fuel efficient service on some of the world’s longest networks, while offering passengers the highest levels of comfort” said Benoit de Saint-Exupery, EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.

Advertisement
ODU RT

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

At the end of November 2024, the A350 had won over 1,300 orders from 61 customers worldwide.

Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner
EgyptAir takes delivery of first of 16 A350-900s

Aerospace

EgyptAir takes delivery of first of 16 A350-900s

9 February 2026

EgyptAir has taken delivery of its first of 16 Airbus A350 900 on order, becoming the launch operator for the type in North Africa.

CAA sees another year of growth for aviation sector

Aerospace

CAA sees another year of growth for aviation sector

9 February 2026

New data from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) shows rising passenger numbers are expected to continue this year with nearly a third of consumers (31%) planning to fly more in 2026 than they did last year.

UK Government introduces ‘fast track’ apprenticeships reforms

Aerospace Defence Security Space

UK Government introduces ‘fast track’ apprenticeships reforms

9 February 2026

Young people will be given a quicker route into high-quality jobs on major projects as the UK Government slashes red tape to fast-track the process.

Two-thirds of parents back apprenticeships as first choice after school

Aerospace Defence Security Space

Two-thirds of parents back apprenticeships as first choice after school

9 February 2026

To coincide with the start of National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9th – 15th February), one of the UK’s largest apprenticeship providers, BAE Systems, has analysed Censuswide’s survey of the latest attitudes of young people and parents

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Raeon opens new HQ and manufacturing centre in Warwick

Aerospace Defence

Raeon opens new HQ and manufacturing centre in Warwick

9 February 2026

UK custom battery manufacturer, Raeon, today announced the opening of its new flagship headquarters and manufacturing centre in Warwick.

Windracers and HITRANS to expand Highlands and Islands drone air cargo

Aerospace

Windracers and HITRANS to expand Highlands and Islands drone air cargo

9 February 2026

British dual-use heavy-lift drone engineering and manufacturing company, Windracers, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS) to accelerate the use of air cargo drone operations in some of the most remote regions of the UK.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
General Atomics LB