Global Airlines CEO Discusses Plans for the Future and Address Prolonged Grounding of Airbus A380

Global Airlines made headlines earlier this year when it operated two round-trip transatlantic flights to New York with its Airbus A380. However, since then, the airline’s sole aircraft, 9H-GLOBL, has been grounded and sent for parking in Tarbes due to maintenance availability. This grounding has now turned into aircraft storage.

In an exclusive interview with Simple Flying, Global Airlines CEO James Asquith discussed the current state of the airline, the extended grounding of 9H-GLOBL, and their plans for the future.

Behind the Scenes Work

Since the Airbus A380 first flew to Tarbes in mid-July, there has been little news about Global Airlines. When asked about this, Asquith explained that there has been a lot of work happening behind the scenes over the summer and into the autumn.

Initially, the airline had stated that the aircraft was only going for short-term parking. However, 9H-GLOBL has now been grounded for 139 days due to a major 12-year check, also known as a D-check. Asquith revealed that finding a slot for this check has been the main obstacle, stating, “We’re privy to huge backlogs in heavy maintenance slots for the aircraft. ” However, he assured that there will be news on the next movements of 9H-GLOBL and further aircraft shortly.

Focus on Building Operations

Global Airlines’ demonstration flights to New York earlier this year were meant to showcase the airline’s ability to carry passengers. Asquith stated that their next goal is to reach a stage where they can operate regular flights without interruptions. He emphasized the importance of having backup aircraft to avoid flight cancellations, saying, “It would be reckless to be operating regular flights on minimal aircraft.

In terms of expanding the fleet, Asquith mentioned plans to bring in 3-4 more aircraft, including a “disaster recovery aircraft” to prevent stranded passengers. While the airline is known for its A380 ambitions, Asquith hinted at diversification, saying, “We are looking at other aircraft types as well and still the A380 going forwards.

Strong Foundation

Unlike many other airline startups, Global Airlines has an advantage – it owns its Airbus A380. Asquith explained that this is a better financial model as they do not have lease or debt payments over the aircraft, making costs lower than perceived. He also credited the hardworking team behind the scenes, saying, “I kind of can’t reiterate enough how hard people work behind here.

In Conclusion

Despite the prolonged grounding of 9H-GLOBL, Global Airlines has not faded into obscurity. Asquith assured that they have been working hard behind the scenes to lay the foundations for the airline’s future.