Global Airlines Launches First Revenue Flight with Mixed Reviews

Global Airlines, a UK start-up aiming to revolutionize air travel and bring back the golden age, recently conducted its first revenue flight. The airline invited influencers from around the world to purchase tickets and review the flight. However, the initial reviews are in and they may not be what the airline was expecting.

One of the main selling points of Global Airlines is its promise of a top-quality premium experience on an Airbus A380. The airline had been selling tickets for its flight from Glasgow to New York, offering economy, business, and first-class options at varying prices. Despite the A380 being able to accommodate 506 passengers, only about 90 tickets were sold.

Travel vloggers Josh Cahill and Noel Phillips, along with former baggage handler turned travel expert Simon Calder, were among those invited to purchase tickets for the flight.

Background of the Flight

Global Airlines purchased its sole aircraft, an Airbus A380, several years ago. Since then, it has been undergoing maintenance and training under the supervision of charter specialist Hi-Fly Malta. As Global Airlines does not hold an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), it cannot operate its own flights.

The A380 was originally delivered to China Southern in 2013, where it remained in service until 2022. Global Airlines acquired the aircraft in 2023.

As Global Airlines does not hold an AOC, the flight from Glasgow to New York was operated by Hi-Fly Malta with their crew under the flight number HFM380.

What Global Airlines Promised

Over the last two years, Global Airlines has heavily marketed its state-of-the-art cabin designs and promised to bring back the golden age of travel. The airline has partnered with Laurent Pierre Champagne and high-end caviar brands, and has promised premium amenities such as in-flight entertainment and connectivity, as well as ensuite first-class suites.

Did They Deliver?

According to reviews from the aforementioned travel vloggers, it seems that Global Airlines did not deliver on their promises. A common theme among the reviews is the outdated and worn cabin, which has remained unchanged since its time in service with China Southern. This is despite having two years to transform it into the promised luxury experience, as claimed by James Asquith, the founder of Global Airlines.

Noel Phillips, who purchased a first-class ticket, found loose trim panels and described the Global Airlines branding as cheap stickers. This was also noted by Josh Cahill, who traveled in Business Class.

Nearly all of the reviews mentioned the lack of in-flight entertainment, with seatback TV screens not functioning and the internal WiFi system unable to connect.

However, the airline did deliver on their promise of high-quality food, but with significant delays. Both Noel and Josh experienced long waits for their meals, with Josh’s review showing a nearly hour-long gap between the starter and main course being served. For many passengers, the promised second meal service did not even take place.

So Was the