For aviation enthusiasts, EgyptAir is particularly interesting at present. Its varied fleet still includes Boeing 737-800s, 777-300ERs, 787s and Airbus A330s, but a major modernisation is underway. New Airbus A350-900s and Boeing 737 MAX 8s have begun arriving, bringing new aircraft types and opening the possibility of significantly longer routes from Cairo.

Brief History of EgyptAir

Eduard Marmet, CC BY-SA 3.0 GFDL 1.2, via Wikimedia Commons

EgyptAir can trace its history to 1932, when Misr Airwork was established, making it one of the world’s oldest continuously operating airlines. Commercial operations began the following year, initially linking Cairo with Alexandria before the network expanded around Egypt and beyond.

The airline underwent several name changes. Following the formation of the United Arab Republic between Egypt and Syria, it became United Arab Airlines (UAA) in 1960. The EgyptAir name was adopted in 1971.

Over the decades, EgyptAir has operated a fascinating assortment of aircraft. Early types included de Havilland aircraft, Douglas DC-3s and Vickers Viscounts, while the jet era brought types including the Comet, Boeing 707, Boeing 737, Airbus A300, Airbus A340 and Boeing 747.

Its location at the meeting point between Africa, Europe and Asia helped Cairo develop into an important connecting hub, with EgyptAir gradually building a network extending across all three regions.

Another significant milestone came in 2008, when EgyptAir joined Star Alliance, giving it much greater global connectivity through fellow member airlines.

Today, EgyptAir is part of the state-owned EgyptAir Holding Company, which encompasses passenger, cargo, maintenance and other aviation businesses.

Current Base and Operations

EgyptAir’s overwhelming focus is its principal hub at Cairo International Airport (CAI).

Cairo’s geographical position is central to EgyptAir’s business model. The airline can carry passengers between Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia while also serving Egypt’s substantial inbound tourism market.

EgyptAir operates domestic services linking Cairo with destinations including Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, alongside a large international network.

Africa is particularly important. EgyptAir serves numerous destinations across North, East, West and Central Africa, allowing Cairo to function as a connecting hub for passengers travelling between Africa and Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Long-haul services extend to destinations in Asia and North America, while the arrival of the Airbus A350 is allowing the carrier to expand this part of its network considerably.

Important and Notable Routes

Some of EgyptAir’s most important international routes include:

• Cairo – London Heathrow
• Cairo – Paris Charles de Gaulle
• Cairo – Frankfurt
• Cairo – Dubai
• Cairo – Jeddah
• Cairo – New York JFK
• Cairo – Washington Dulles
• Cairo – Newark
• Cairo – Toronto
• Cairo – Tokyo Narita

However, 2026 has brought two particularly interesting additions.

EgyptAir launched new nonstop flights from Cairo to Los Angeles and Chicago O’Hare, both using the Airbus A350-900. The Los Angeles route is especially significant, demonstrating the range capabilities of EgyptAir’s new flagship and giving the airline a direct presence on the US West Coast. Both Los Angeles and Chicago are scheduled three times weekly during the 2026/27 winter season.

The A350 is also increasingly appearing on established routes. During summer 2026, scheduled destinations for the type have included New York JFK, London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Frankfurt.

Fleet Overview

EgyptAir currently has one of the more varied fleets among major African airlines, mixing Airbus and Boeing narrowbody and widebody types.

The fleet is undergoing significant change. Older Boeing 737-800s, Airbus A330s and Boeing 777-300ERs remain important, while the newer A320neo, A321neo and Boeing 787-9 have already modernised significant parts of the operation.

Now another phase is underway with the arrival of the Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 737 MAX 8.

Main Passenger Fleet

EgyptAir’s passenger fleet includes:

Fleet totals can fluctuate as aircraft enter and leave service, particularly during the current renewal programme.

The airline also has a dedicated cargo operation which includes converted Airbus A330-200P2F freighters.

Airline Livery

Boeing and EgyptAir announced today the Egyptian national airline took delivery of its first 737 MAX. The 737-8 is the first of 18 airplanes leased from SMBC Aviation Capital to be delivered and represents the first 737 MAX in Egypt.

EgyptAir has one of the most distinctive identities among African airlines.

Most aircraft feature a predominantly white fuselage, with large blue EGYPTAIR titles towards the front accompanied by the airline’s name in Arabic.

The most recognisable feature is undoubtedly the tail. This is painted dark blue and carries a stylised golden representation of Horus, the ancient Egyptian sky god traditionally depicted with the head of a falcon.

Blue engine nacelles complete the appearance on many aircraft.

EgyptAir introduced this version of its corporate identity in 2008, coinciding with the period in which it joined Star Alliance. Despite the arrival of several new aircraft generations since then, the basic scheme has remained largely unchanged.

For spotters, the combination of the dark blue tail, gold Horus emblem and blue engines makes an EgyptAir aircraft relatively easy to pick out on a busy airport ramp.

Special Liveries

EgyptAir does not operate the huge variety of special liveries seen at some airlines, but there have nevertheless been some interesting variations.

As a member of Star Alliance, selected aircraft have appeared in the familiar Star Alliance scheme, featuring a predominantly white fuselage with large black alliance titles and the Star Alliance logo on the tail.

Recently the airline introduced a Boeing 737-800 in a retro 1970s/80s livery to mark the airline’s 95th anniversary, which was welcomed by enthusiasts.

The Future of EgyptAir

The next few years could represent one of the most significant periods of fleet change in EgyptAir’s modern history.

The airline is simultaneously modernising both its short- and long-haul fleets. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 will gradually assume a greater role on regional and medium-haul services, while the Airbus A350-900 is becoming the new flagship of the long-haul fleet.

The introduction of Los Angeles and Chicago provides an early indication of what that expansion could look like. With the A350 capable of operating substantially longer sectors than much of EgyptAir’s existing fleet, more distant destinations in North America and Asia become possible.

At the same time, the arrival of 18 737 MAX 8s represents an equally important renewal at the other end of the network, replacing older aircraft with more efficient equipment.

Title image: Eric Salard, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

This month we have another round-up of the best new airliner deliveries and special liveries already flying in our skies and just waiting to be spotted or photographed!

Why not let us know in the comments which is your favourite and which you are most looking forward to seeing?

Airbus Flying Laboratory

Making use of a reduntant, former Malaysia Airlines, A380, Airbus has painted this special scheme on what is now 2-JAYN and will use it as a flying laboratory. Its first role is in testing a new engine.

AirMozambique Rebrand

Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique (LAM) has rebranded as AirMozambique. The first aircraft to wear the new titles and livery is Embraer 190 C9-AMB.

ANA’s New Pokemon Jets

All Nippon Airways is introducing three new Pokemon schemes on its Boeing 787 Dreamliners (two) and Boeing 737-800 (one). They are JA819A and JA923A, wearing Red and Green schemes respectively, and JA56AN wearing Blue scheme.

FedEx Goes Retro

To celebrate its founder, FedEx has painted one of its Boeing 777 freighters (N884FD) in the classic 1980s Federal Express purple livery.

NASA New 777 Livery

NASA has painted this spectactular scheme on its Airborn Science Laboratory Boeing 777 N577NA.

Somon Air’s First MAX

Tajikistan’s first Boeing 737 MAX has been delivered to carrier Somon Air. It is VQ-BBA, and will be joined by a second example soon.

SunPhuQuoc Rebrands as SPA

Vietname’s growing new airline SunPhuQuoc has rebranded as SPA, with its aircraft receiving these titles.

TAROM’s First MAX

Refreshed livery on TAROM’s 1st of 4 @BoeingAirplanes 737 MAX jets (YR-BGN), named ‘Mircea Lucescu’. pic.twitter.com/2twOhIfJaY

— Aeronews (@AeronewsGlobal) August 10, 2026

TAROM has also received its first Boeing 737 MAX, YR-BGN. The airline has used the opportunity to update its livery.

ValueJet First 737-800

Nigeria’s ValueJet has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737-800, 5N-CFZ. It previously flew with Southwest Airlines.

WinAir Anniversary Livery

To mark its 65th anniversary, the Caribbean’s WinAir has painted these special markings on ATR42 PJ-WIW.

Title image: Aviação TV

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For those who don’t know, Oshkosh is dubbed ‘the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration’, and takes place every July at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, WI.

As well as the flying displays, it is a place where aviation enthusiasts, professionals and pilots come together to celebration flying. Many bring their own light or classic aircraft in, and both civilian and military representatives also send aircraft to take part in the show.

This means that wandering the giant site, as we did for the first time this year, you are likely to come across hundreds of historic, rare or simply classic aircraft of all shapes and sizes.

We’ve written about our visit to Oshkosh 2026 in our Airport Spotting Premium Members magazine for August (sign up to read it here). But as a taster we thought we’d bring you a selection of some of the incredible classic aircraft we saw this year:

1 – Flagship Detroit – The World’s Oldest Flying DC-3

Finished in this stunning all-metal early American Airlines livery, Flagship Detroit (NC17334) was built in 1937 and flew with the airline until 1947.

2 – P-51D Mustang “Plum Crazy”

Part of the Kermit Weeks hangar, this North American P-51D Mustang is finished in a stunning plum colour. Previously owned by Clay Lacy, it is said to have inspired the FedEx livery!

3 – Red Bull’s Douglas DC-6

Having made the trip from Europe, this immaculate Douglas DC-6, OE-LDM, was built in 1958 and took part in the air show.

4 – Lockheed Electra Junior NC18906

Probably one of the finest examples of the rare Lockheed 12A Electra still in existence is this example, built in 1939 and now in private hands.

5 – Stinson Reliant NC18407

There were a few Stinson Reliant aircraft on display, but this one caught our eye. NC18407 was built in 1937 and is painted to represent American Airlines’ Route Survey department.

6 – Travel Air S6000B NC9084

Another airframe with a wild history. This Travel Air S6000B was built in 1929 and has served as a barnstormer, aerial firefighter, passenger aircraft, executive transport, aerial photography platform and once spent 13 days in flight in an attempt to break a record!

7 – B-17 Flying Fortress Aluminium Overcast

A resident airframe at Oshkosh, Aluminium Overcast (N5017N) is one of only 46 suriving B-17 airframes. It was built in 1945 and just missed out on wartime service.

8 – Vintage Cessna 172 N8686B

This may not have been the oldest Cessna 172 on site – I haven’t checked. But it certainly stood out as an incredible example of one of the ‘vintage’ examples on site. Built in 1957, it’s in fantastic condition and wearing the original Tangerine livery. It’s incredible to think that these aircraft are still in production today, albeit much updated.

9 – B-25 Georgia Mae

This stunning B-25 Mitchell started life in 1945 as 44-86785. Incredibly she only flew four times between 1945-1951 and never saw serious war service. She later became a radar interceptor and training aircraft, and was then sent to Davis-Monthan for storage in 1957. A year later she was converted into an aerial firefighting platform, and since 1984 has been lovingly restored into her military identity.

10 – PB4Y-2 Privateer 66302

Another classic wartime airframe, this patrol bomber served in both World War II and the Korean War with the US Navy and later US Coast Guard. It is one of the last airworthy Privateers anywhere in the world.

Were you at Oshkosh this year? What was your favourite aircraft to see?

The aircraft, Boeing 777F N884FD, appeared in the historic purple, orange and white scheme as part of a series of events honouring FedEx founder Frederick W. Smith, including the dedication of the company’s home airport in Memphis in his name.

It is likely to become one of the most sought-after aircraft for plane spotters in the FedEx fleet.

A Modern 777 in Classic Federal Express Colours

N884FD has been repainted in a scheme inspired by the original Federal Express livery of the 1970s.

Instead of the familiar modern FedEx branding, the Boeing 777 wears a largely white fuselage with the distinctive purple and orange cheatlines associated with the company’s earliest aircraft.

Those colours were famously worn by the Dassault Falcon 20 business jets which launched Federal Express flight operations from Memphis in April 1973.

The first night of operations saw the fledgling company use its Falcon fleet to carry just 186 packages to 25 US cities. From those relatively modest beginnings, Smith’s hub-and-spoke concept developed into one of the largest express freight networks in the world.

More than half a century later, putting those colours onto one of FedEx’s long-range Boeing 777 freighters creates a striking link between the company’s beginnings and its modern global operation.

Meet N884FD – ‘Rosie’

The aircraft chosen for the special scheme is N884FD, a Boeing 777-FS2 Freighter with manufacturer serial number 37137.

It first flew in February 2011 and has spent its career flying for FedEx.

The aircraft has also been given the name Rosie, after one of Frederick W. Smith’s granddaughters, who was born shortly before his death in June 2025. It continues a longstanding FedEx tradition of naming aircraft after employees’ children.

N884FD took centre stage during the dedication ceremony on 11 August when it operated FedEx Flight 1944 into Memphis.

The flight number was itself significant, representing the year in which Frederick W. Smith was born.

The retro 777 then performed the first ceremonial landing at the newly renamed airport.

Memphis Airport Renamed for Frederick W. Smith

The appearance of the retro aircraft coincided with the formal renaming of Memphis International Airport in honour of the FedEx founder.

The airport is now known as Frederick W. Smith International Airport, recognising Smith’s enormous contribution not only to FedEx, but also to Memphis and the development of the modern air freight industry.

Smith founded Federal Express in 1971 and selected Memphis as its operational base in 1973, in part because of its central location and relatively reliable weather.

That decision would transform both the company and the airport.

Today, the FedEx Memphis World Hub sorts more than 2.4 million packages every day, while FedEx as a whole delivers more than 18 million packages daily around the world.

Smith died in June 2025 at the age of 80.

The airport dedication took place on 11 August 2026, which would have been his 82nd birthday, and coincided with the inaugural FedEx FWS Day of Service.

FedEx also unveiled a mural on Plough Boulevard featuring a portrait of Smith created from images of the company’s famous purple aircraft tails.

FedEx and the Boeing 777F

Departing Runway 34 Anchorage.

The choice of the Boeing 777F for the retro scheme is also fitting.

FedEx became the first US-based global all-cargo airline to take delivery of the Boeing 777 Freighter in 2009, introducing the type as a more efficient long-range aircraft for its international network.

The twin-engined freighter has since become an important part of the FedEx fleet, particularly on long-distance routes linking its major hubs in North America, Europe and Asia.

N884FD itself is now around 15 years old, but its new colours give the aircraft a look inspired by a period almost four decades before it was built.

For aviation enthusiasts, it is also a welcome addition to FedEx’s fleet of special aircraft. While retro liveries are relatively common among passenger airlines, they are much less frequently seen on large cargo aircraft.

What do you think of the FedEx retro 777? Would you like to see more of the company’s aircraft painted in historic liveries? Let us know in the comments.

If you’ve ever stood at the end of a runway and wondered “is that a 737 or an A320?” — the answer often lies in the wingtip. Let’s take a closer look at the main types you’ll encounter.

What Are Wingtip Devices?

Wingtip devices are aerodynamic surfaces added to the ends of an aircraft’s wings. Their main purpose is to reduce induced drag created by wingtip vortices. In simple terms, they help the aircraft burn less fuel, fly further, and climb more efficiently.

But for spotters, they serve another function: they’re excellent identifiers.

The Main Types of Wingtip Devices

Classic Winglets

Former Air China 747-400 B-2445 Duan Zhu, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

First popularized by Boeing in the 1980s and 1990s, these are the tall, narrow fins angled upward at the wingtip. You’ll see them on the Boeing 747-400 and Airbus A330s, as well as on some business jets.

Spotting tip: Look for a straight, triangular fin pointing upwards with no downward counterpart.

Blended Winglets

Fly Safair are a common sight at Cape Town. Photo:

An evolution of the classic design, blended winglets have a smooth, curved transition from the wing to the winglet. This improves aerodynamics and makes them instantly recognizable.

Most common on Boeing 737 NGs, 757s, and 767s retrofitted with winglets.

Split Scimitar Winglets

Introduced in the 2010s, these add a downward-pointing fin beneath the blended winglet, creating a dual-fin look.

Spotting tip: If you see a 737 with what looks like a shark’s fin above and a small blade below, you’re looking at a split scimitar.

Airbus Sharklets

SAS A320 EI-SAW & Vueling A321 EC-NLY

Airbus introduced its own wingtip device on the A320neo family (and retrofitted to some A320ceos). Called “Sharklets,” they are taller and sleeker than Boeing’s winglets, with a gentle curve and a slightly swept-back design.

Spotting tip: Sharklets are taller than 737 winglets and angle back more aggressively.

Raked Wingtips

Not all wingtip devices point upwards. Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner, 777-300ER, and 747-8 feature raked wingtips — extensions of the wing that taper smoothly outward and backward.

Spotting tip: If the wing looks longer and sharply swept without a vertical fin, it’s a raked wingtip.

Wingtip Fences

Air France A320 arriving. Seen from the car park at the south side of the airport.

The original Airbus A320 family (before Sharklets) often featured wingtip fences — smaller vertical plates extending both above and below the wing.

Spotting tip: These look like small, squared-off fins. If you see them, it’s likely an older A320 or A319.

How They Help in Aircraft Recognition

For aviation enthusiasts, wingtip devices are more than just technical add-ons. They’re spotting tools that help quickly identify aircraft families, sub-variants, and even retrofitted models.

• 737 vs A320? Look at the winglets vs sharklets.
• 767s in the wild? The ones with blended winglets are often cargo conversions still flying today.
• Dreamliner vs A330neo? That raked wing on the 787 is a giveaway.

Next Time You’re Spotting…

Next time you’re at your local airport or flipping through your spotting log, take a closer look at the wingtips. With practice, you’ll be able to tell apart a 737NG from a MAX, or an A320ceo from a neo, at a glance.

What’s your favorite wingtip design to spot? Share your photos and experiences in the comments — and don’t forget to log those winglet variations in your spotting notes!

Today, Virgin Atlantic operates one of the youngest long-haul fleets in Europe, serving destinations across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East and Asia from its London Heathrow hub. Following a multi-billion-dollar fleet renewal programme, it is transitioning to an all next-generation fleet of Airbus A330neos, Airbus A350-1000s and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.

Brief History of Virgin Atlantic Airways

The first Virgin Atlantic service to New York (c) Steve Fitzgerald

Virgin Atlantic was founded by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson in 1984, with its inaugural flight operating from London Gatwick to Newark on 22 June using a leased Boeing 747-200. The airline was established to challenge the dominance of British Airways and quickly developed a reputation for offering a more fun and customer-focused alternative.

Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Virgin Atlantic expanded rapidly across the North Atlantic and to destinations in Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. The iconic Boeing 747 became synonymous with the airline, joined over the years by Airbus A340s, Airbus A330s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

The airline introduced numerous innovations, including onboard bars, Premium Economy cabins and stylish Upper Class suites, helping redefine long-haul travel.

Like many international carriers, Virgin Atlantic faced major challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, undergoing financial restructuring in 2020. However, demand rebounded strongly, allowing the airline to continue its fleet modernisation programme.

In 2023, Virgin Atlantic became a full member of the SkyTeam alliance, strengthening its partnership with Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM while expanding global connectivity.

Current Bases and Operations

Virgin Atlantic’s principal hub is:

• London Heathrow (LHR)

It also maintains an important base at:

• Manchester (MAN)

Historically, London Gatwick played a major role in the airline’s network, although Heathrow is now firmly established as its primary long-haul gateway.

Virgin Atlantic focuses almost entirely on long-haul services, particularly across the North Atlantic, where it competes with British Airways, American Airlines and United Airlines. Through its joint venture with Delta Air Lines and partnerships with Air France-KLM, the airline offers extensive onward connections throughout North America and Europe.

Its network includes destinations across:

• United States
• Canada
• Caribbean
• India
• Middle East
• Africa
• Maldives

Important and Notable Routes

Virgin Atlantic is best known for its transatlantic network, with several routes regarded as flagship services.

Among its best-known routes are:

• London Heathrow – New York (JFK)
• London Heathrow – Los Angeles
• London Heathrow – Orlando
• London Heathrow – Miami
• London Heathrow – Atlanta
• London Heathrow – Boston
• Manchester – Orlando

The London Heathrow–New York JFK route remains the airline’s signature service and one of the world’s busiest premium long-haul markets.

Virgin Atlantic has also steadily expanded its services to India in recent years, with flights to Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru becoming increasingly important parts of its network.

Fleet Overview

Following the retirement of its Airbus A340s and Boeing 747-400s, Virgin Atlantic now operates an entirely twin-engine widebody fleet and is continuing its transition towards newer-generation aircraft.

Current Fleet

Aircraft on Order

The additional A330neos will complete Virgin Atlantic’s fleet renewal programme, replacing the remaining A330-300s and helping create an all next-generation fleet by 2028.

Airline Livery

Virgin Atlantic A350 at JFK

Virgin Atlantic has one of the most distinctive liveries in commercial aviation.

Its aircraft feature a gleaming white fuselage with large metallic Virgin Atlantic titles across the forward fuselage. The tail is painted deep crimson and carries the famous Virgin script logo, while the engines are finished in matching metallic silver.

One of the airline’s most recognisable features is the “Flying Lady” artwork positioned beside the forward passenger door. Inspired by classic pin-up artwork, each aircraft carries this emblem as part of the airline’s branding.

Many aircraft also feature a Union Flag-inspired red swoosh beneath the cockpit windows and the airline’s distinctive burgundy engine nacelles, making Virgin Atlantic aircraft easy to identify even from a distance.

Special Liveries

Virgin A330neo G-VSRB previously wore special 40th anniversary markings.

Unlike some airlines, Virgin Atlantic generally maintains a consistent fleet appearance, with no current special liveries.

For enthusiasts, registration differences are often just as interesting. The airline has traditionally given many aircraft registrations beginning G-V* with memorable combinations such as G-VBIG, G-VLIP, G-VWOW and G-VFAB, reflecting Virgin’s playful branding.

As more Airbus A330-900neos enter service, they are introducing Virgin Atlantic’s latest cabin product, featuring the Retreat Suite and redesigned Upper Class cabin, making these aircraft particularly sought after by aviation enthusiasts and frequent flyers alike.

]]> https://www.airportspotting.com/virgin-atlantic-airways-fleet-routes-history-and-livery-guide/feed/ 0 https://www.airportspotting.com/10-european-airports-where-you-can-spot-westjets-boeing-737-max/ https://www.airportspotting.com/10-european-airports-where-you-can-spot-westjets-boeing-737-max/#respond Wed, 05 Aug 2026 13:25:42 +0000 https://www.airportspotting.com/?p=28583 WestJet has become one of the world’s leading operators of long-range Boeing 737 MAX services, using the aircraft to link Canadian cities with destinations across Europe. For aviation enthusiasts, this has created a unique opportunity to see narrowbody Boeing 737s operating routes that would once have been unimaginable.

WestJet’s European 737 MAX Destinations

Here are ten European airports where you can spot WestJet’s Boeing 737 MAX fleet during the 2026 summer season.

1. Cardiff Airport, Wales

Perhaps the most unusual destination in WestJet’s transatlantic network.

Launched from Toronto, the Cardiff route provides Wales with a rare direct North American connection.

For enthusiasts, seeing a WestJet Boeing 737 MAX parked on the ramp at Cardiff is something few would have expected just a few years ago.

2. Glasgow Airport, Scotland

WestJet has a long history serving Scotland, and Glasgow remains one of its most important destinations.

The airline’s Boeing 737 MAX operations bring Canadian visitors directly into Scotland’s largest city while offering enthusiasts a chance to see transatlantic narrowbody operations in action.

3. Edinburgh Airport, Scotland

Another Scottish destination that regularly welcomes WestJet aircraft.

Depending on schedules and seasonal demand, both Boeing 737 MAX and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft can sometimes be seen operating WestJet services into Edinburgh, making it one of the most interesting UK airports for spotting Canadian carriers.

4. Dublin Airport, Ireland

Dublin has become one of the strongest transatlantic airports in Europe.

WestJet’s services from Canada fit neatly into an already impressive lineup of North American operators. The Boeing 737 MAX adds something different to the mix, standing out among the larger Airbus A330s, Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s that dominate many Atlantic routes.

The airport’s spotting locations provide excellent photography opportunities.

5. Keflavik Airport, Iceland

Few airports are as well suited to long-range narrowbody operations as Keflavik, sat in the middle of the North Atlantic.

WestJet now serves Iceland from both Edmonton and Winnipeg using Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, making Keflavik one of the best places in Europe to see the type on transatlantic routes.

6. Lisbon Airport, Portugal

A new addition to WestJet’s network, Lisbon has quickly become one of the airline’s most interesting destinations.

Operated from Halifax, the route demonstrates the flexibility of the Boeing 737 MAX and opens another gateway between Canada and southern Europe.

7. Madrid Airport, Spain

Another new destination served from Halifax.

Madrid is one of Europe’s busiest airports, making WestJet’s Boeing 737 MAX operation stand out even more among the constant stream of Airbus A350s, Boeing 787s and Boeing 777s.

8. Copenhagen Airport, Denmark

The Danish capital is another newcomer to WestJet’s European network.

Services from Halifax bring the airline into one of Scandinavia’s busiest aviation hubs and provide enthusiasts with another opportunity to see the Boeing 737 MAX performing flights of over six hours across the Atlantic.

9. Ponta Delgada, Azores

One of the most unusual destinations in WestJet’s route map.

Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores provide an ideal stepping stone between Europe and North America. Ponta Delgada offers spectacular scenery, interesting aircraft movements and a growing reputation among aviation enthusiasts.

10. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Netherlands

Although not as unusual as some of the other destinations on this list, Amsterdam remains one of the easiest places in Europe to spot WestJet aircraft.

Services from Halifax frequently use Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, while the airport’s huge range of international traffic makes it one of Europe’s premier spotting destinations.

For enthusiasts wanting to add a WestJet MAX to their logbook, Schiphol is one of the most reliable locations.

Why WestJet’s Boeing 737 MAX Flights Matter

WestJet 737 MAX at Amsterdam

The Boeing 737 MAX has transformed what is possible in the transatlantic market.

Rather than requiring hundreds of passengers to fill a widebody aircraft, airlines such as WestJet can operate profitable services between smaller city pairs using a more efficient narrowbody. This has opened routes that would never previously have been viable.

For aviation enthusiasts, it has also created some fascinating spotting opportunities. Seeing a Boeing 737 MAX arrive from Toronto, Halifax or Edmonton after crossing the Atlantic remains a novelty, even as these routes become more common.

Title image: Ian McMaster

However, the airline is at a crossroads. After years of financial losses and repeated restructuring attempts, TAROM is now working through a revised reorganisation plan agreed with the Romanian Government and the European Commission. The coming months could prove decisive in determining whether the airline can return to profitability and remain Romania’s national carrier.

Brief History of TAROM

RuthAS, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The origins of TAROM date back to 1920, when Franco-Romanian airline CFRNA (Compagnie Franco-Roumaine de Navigation Aérienne) was established. Following several reorganisations after the Second World War, the airline officially adopted the name TAROM (Transporturile Aeriene Române) on 18 September 1954.

During the Cold War, TAROM was unusual among European airlines in operating both Soviet and Western-built aircraft. Its fleet included the Antonov An-24, Ilyushin Il-18, Il-62 and Tupolev Tu-154 alongside BAC One-Elevens, Boeing 707s and later Airbus A310s.

By the 1970s and 1980s the airline operated an extensive international network reaching destinations throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa and even North America and Asia. Scheduled flights to New York, Beijing, Bangkok, Chicago and Montreal demonstrated TAROM’s ambitions as a long-haul carrier.

The difficult economic conditions following the collapse of communism led to years of financial losses. During the early 2000s, the airline withdrew from long-haul flying, concentrating instead on shorter European routes.

In 2010, TAROM joined the SkyTeam alliance, strengthening its partnerships with airlines including Air France, KLM and Delta Air Lines.

Current Bases and Operations

TAROM’s main hub is:

• Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

The airline also operates services from:

• Iași
• Cluj-Napoca
• Timișoara

Today, TAROM serves around 30 destinations across Europe and the Middle East, while also providing an important domestic network linking Romania’s regional cities with Bucharest.

Although considerably smaller than low-cost competitors such as Wizz Air and Ryanair in Romania, TAROM continues to play an important role by serving business travellers, government traffic and connecting passengers.

Fleet Overview

A TAROM ATR 72. Photo: Anna Zvereva

TAROM has been steadily simplifying and modernising its fleet as part of its restructuring programme. The airline is replacing older Boeing 737-700s with new-generation Boeing 737 MAX 8s while expanding its ATR 72-600 regional fleet.

Current Fleet

Aircraft on Order

The arrival of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 fleet will eventually allow the retirement of the remaining 737-700s while improving fuel efficiency and reducing operating costs—one of the key aims of the airline’s restructuring programme.

Airline Livery

TAROM’s aircraft are among the easiest to recognise in Europe thanks to their elegant blue-and-white colour scheme.

The fuselage is predominantly white, with dark blue TAROM titles on the forward fuselage. A sweeping blue cheatline runs beneath the cabin windows before flowing into a deep blue tail featuring the airline’s iconic swallow logo, a symbol that has represented TAROM since 1954.

The engine nacelles are also painted dark blue, giving the fleet a clean and traditional appearance that has changed little over the past two decades.

Another interesting feature for enthusiasts is that every aircraft carries the name of a Romanian city, river or notable aviation pioneer.

Special Liveries

BriYYZ from Toronto, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

TAROM has generally preferred a uniform fleet appearance rather than operating numerous promotional liveries.

The best-known exception was a retro Boeing 737-700, painted in 2009 to celebrate the airline’s 55th anniversary. The aircraft wore colours inspired by TAROM’s 1950s livery, complete with a classic red cheatline reminiscent of the airline’s early piston-engine era.

Occasionally, individual aircraft have also carried temporary promotional decals for tourism campaigns or special anniversaries, although these have been relatively uncommon compared with many European airlines.

TAROM’s Future: Can the Airline Be Saved?

TAROM 737-800. Photo Manfred M

The biggest story surrounding TAROM today is not its fleet or route network, but its future.

The airline has not reported an operating profit for many years, and its survival currently depends on a restructuring programme backed by the Romanian Government and approved by the European Commission. That plan includes fleet simplification, route optimisation and significant cost reductions in exchange for state aid worth around €95 million.

However, by mid-2026 it had become clear that many of the programme’s financial targets would not be achieved on schedule. Romania’s new transport minister replaced the airline’s chief executive and announced that a revised restructuring plan would be submitted to the European Commission, arguing that higher fuel prices, aircraft delivery delays and changing market conditions had made the original timetable unrealistic.

The revised strategy is expected to focus on:

• Completing the transition to a modern Boeing 737 MAX fleet.
• Increasing passenger load factors through improved scheduling and marketing.
• Further reducing operating costs.
• Creating a financially sustainable airline capable of competing with low-cost carriers.

While the Romanian Government has made clear that it wants to preserve TAROM as the country’s national airline, success is far from guaranteed. If the revised plan fails to convince the European Commission that the airline can become viable, the state aid package could be withdrawn, placing TAROM’s future in serious doubt.

For enthusiasts, the coming years promise to be among the most significant in TAROM’s long history. Whether the airline emerges as a leaner, modern carrier built around the Boeing 737 MAX and ATR 72, or faces further uncertainty, its transformation will be one of Europe’s most closely watched airline turnaround stories.

Have you ever flown on TAROM? Leave a comment below!

]]> https://www.airportspotting.com/tarom-can-romanias-national-airline-turn-the-corner/feed/ 0 https://www.airportspotting.com/which-airlines-will-fly-the-boeing-737-max-7-faa-approval-finally-clears-the-way/ https://www.airportspotting.com/which-airlines-will-fly-the-boeing-737-max-7-faa-approval-finally-clears-the-way/#respond Mon, 03 Aug 2026 18:34:51 +0000 https://www.airportspotting.com/?p=28588 After years of delays, redesigns and intensive regulatory scrutiny, the Boeing 737 MAX 7 has finally received certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The approval marks a major milestone for Boeing, completing the certification of the smallest member of the 737 MAX family and paving the way for the first customer deliveries.

But now the big question becomes: which airlines will actually be flying the MAX 7, and when can aviation enthusiasts expect to see it in service?

Southwest Airlines Will Be First

Unsurprisingly, Southwest Airlines is expected to become the launch customer.

The Dallas-based airline has been the MAX 7’s biggest supporter since the programme was launched and has patiently waited through multiple certification delays. Southwest has built its entire fleet around the Boeing 737, making the MAX 7 a natural replacement for its ageing 737-700s.

The airline holds well over 200 outstanding MAX 7 orders, representing the vast majority of Boeing’s backlog for the type. First deliveries are expected to begin once Boeing completes its delivery preparations, with commercial services likely to follow in 2027.

For spotters in the United States, that means airports across Southwest’s huge domestic network could soon become the best places to catch the newest 737 variant.

Who Else Has Ordered The MAX 7?

Although Southwest dominates the order book, it isn’t the only customer.

Other airlines and operators with MAX 7 orders include:

• Business Jet/VIP customers, who will receive Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) versions
• Several leasing companies with aircraft available for future placement.

WestJet was originally planned to be a MAX 7 operator, but switched its order to the MAX 8 variant.

Because many airlines opted to switch to the larger MAX 8 or MAX 10 while waiting for certification, the MAX 7’s customer list is considerably smaller than Boeing originally envisaged.

Why Choose The MAX 7?

At first glance, the MAX 7 might appear overshadowed by its larger siblings, but it fills an important niche.

Designed to seat around 135 to 160 passengers, it is the smallest and longest-range member of the MAX family. Boeing says it can fly around 1,000 nautical miles farther than the 737-700 while offering significantly lower fuel burn per seat.

That makes it particularly attractive for airlines wanting:

• Thin long-range routes
• High-frequency domestic services
• Airports with performance limitations
• A modern replacement for older Boeing 737-700 fleets

For Southwest, which operates hundreds of 737-700s, the aircraft is almost tailor-made.

A Long Road To Certification

The MAX 7 first flew back in 2018 and was originally expected to enter service the following year.

Instead, certification became caught up in the aftermath of the two fatal MAX accidents, followed by enhanced FAA oversight of Boeing’s design and manufacturing processes. Additional work on the aircraft’s engine anti-ice system added further delays.

In total, certification arrived almost seven years later than originally planned, making it one of Boeing’s longest development programmes in recent memory.

What Does It Mean For Boeing?

For Boeing, FAA certification represents much more than another aircraft entering service.

It allows the company to begin delivering aircraft that have been sitting in storage awaiting approval, generating much-needed revenue while giving customers access to the final member of the MAX family. Boeing has already begun preparations for first deliveries.

Attention now turns to the 737 MAX 10, the largest variant in the family, which recently completed its own certification flight testing and is widely expected to receive FAA approval later this year. If that happens, Boeing will finally have its complete next-generation 737 family available for airlines nearly a decade after the programme first entered service.

The flight marks the culmination of one of the longest and most closely scrutinised certification programmes in Boeing’s history, bringing the manufacturer a significant step closer to finally delivering the aircraft to customers after years of delays.

Nearly 1,000 Test Flights

The 737 MAX 10 certification campaign has been extensive.

According to Boeing, the programme has included:

• 976 flight tests
• More than 2,060 flight hours
• Over 1,040 hours of ground testing

The final planned certification flight was carried out by Boeing’s flight test team, after which the programme moves into the final stages of documentation and regulatory review with the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Boeing described the achievement as the result of years of work by engineers, pilots and certification specialists, with the company now focused on closing out the remaining certification activities.

The Largest Member Of The MAX Family

Launched at the 2017 Paris Air Show, the 737 MAX 10 is the largest variant of the MAX family.

At 43.8 metres (143 ft 8 in) long, it is designed to compete directly with the Airbus A321neo and offers airlines the highest seating capacity in the 737 family, accommodating up to 230 passengers in a single-class layout.

Like the rest of the MAX family, it is powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines and features Boeing’s Advanced Technology winglets, delivering improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs compared with earlier-generation 737NG aircraft.

Years Of Delays

The MAX 10’s route to certification has been far from straightforward.

Originally expected to enter service several years ago, the programme was delayed following the worldwide grounding of the 737 MAX family after two fatal accidents involving the MAX 8. Subsequent regulatory reforms resulted in much greater scrutiny of Boeing’s certification processes.

Further delays followed as Boeing redesigned the aircraft’s engine anti-ice system and worked to satisfy new certification requirements introduced by regulators.

Completion of the flight-test programme therefore represents a significant milestone for both Boeing and its airline customers, many of whom have been waiting years to receive the aircraft.

Who Has Ordered The MAX 10?

The 737 MAX 10 has attracted strong interest from airlines seeking a high-capacity narrowbody aircraft.

Major customers include:

• Ryanair
• United Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Alaska Airlines
• VietJet Air
• Ethiopian Airlines
• Lufthansa Group
• International Airlines Group (IAG)

The type is expected to become an important competitor to the Airbus A321neo on busy domestic and short-haul international routes.

What Happens Next?

Although the final planned certification flight has now been completed, the aircraft has not yet received FAA certification.

The remaining work includes the regulator’s review of flight-test data, documentation and compliance evidence before the aircraft can officially be certificated and delivered to customers. Boeing continues to target certification later in 2026, with first customer deliveries expected to begin in 2027, assuming the remaining regulatory process proceeds as planned.

For Boeing, the milestone represents another sign that its long-running certification programmes are finally nearing completion. With the MAX 10 almost across the finish line and work continuing on the smaller MAX 7, the manufacturer is edging closer to offering airlines its full next-generation 737 family for the first time.

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