Global Airlines Abandons Transatlantic A380 Plans – Shifts Focus to ACMI Leasing
Global Airlines, which drew attention with its ambitious A380 project but managed to operate only two passenger flights, has suspended its scheduled transatlantic services. The company is now pivoting to an ACMI leasing model, offering aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance services to other airlines.
Notably, even the two trial flights were not conducted under Global’s own Air Operator Certificate (AOC); they were operated by Malta-based Hi Fly. The first flight, from Glasgow to New York JFK, carried only 95 passengers despite low fares, raising concerns about the project’s viability.
Interest from Saudi Arabia’s Kingdom Holding Company in a potential investment has caught attention. However, the aviation industry remembers Hi Fly’s unsuccessful A380 leasing attempt in the 2010s, which failed due to high operating costs and limited demand. Global Airlines, on the other hand, believes the conditions are now more favorable.
The airline’s A380 (registered 9H-GLOBL) is currently in maintenance in Dresden, Germany. While the future of Global Airlines remains uncertain, one message is clear: they aimed big, missed the mark, and are now changing the game.
