NAC's N361NC

Northern Air Cargo (NAC), Aloha Air Cargo's sister company is ferrying N361NC (c/n 23260, l/n 1146), a 737-301SF to assist with AAH's operations.

23260 was originally delivered to Piedmont Airlines as N309P in September 1985. When US Air acquired Piedmont, it was transferred and re-registered as N582US. In March 1995, 23260 was sold to GECAS, then leased to America West. It wore both the original blue stripe livery and the teal and red Southwestwern-style livery. In December 2006, 23260 was converted into a freighter, and leased to TNT Airways as OO-TNJ. In March 2011, it was leased to Blue Bird Cargo as TF-BBI. In June 2012, it was leased to NAC as N361NC.

M-SFAM

A VIP-configured MD-87, M-SFAM (c/n 53042, l/n 1969), owned by Montavachi Limited, has been on HNL's South Ramp since December 23rd. The Isle of Man-registered airliner is heading out to OGG today.

53042 was originally delivered to Japan Air System [JD/JAS] in March 1992 as JA8373. When Japan Airlines acquired JAS in April 2004, it was transferred to the Japan Airlines fleet. It was supposed to go to Orient Thai Airlines [OX/OEA] as HS-MSA, but was not taken up. In February 2008, 53042 was acquired by Aircraft and Engine Support LLC, as N870SG, and stored at GYR. During that time, it received a VIP cabin configuration. Montavachi Ltd acquired 53042 in March 2012.

Mele Kalikimaka

The HNL RareBirds team wish all of our friends, fans and readers a very Merry Christmas!

China Southern's B-2927

China Southern Airlines is sending B-2927 (c/n 27290, l/n 2595), a 737-31B, to MZJ for storage as CSN2002. The ferry flight originated from LAO, and made stops at GUM, MAJ, HNL, and OAK.

B-2927 was delivered to China Southern in March 1994, under lease from ALC. The 19-year-old 737 is now being returned as the lease has expired.

TransAir's N737CS

TransAir has taken delivery of N737CS (c/n 23272, l/n 1093), a 737-2T4C/Adv, and is their second 737-200C. It arrived last week Thursday from BKI [Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia] via GUM and MAJ.

23272 was originally delivered to the CAAC as B-2506 in March 1985. When Air China was formed out of the CAAC in 1988, it was transferred into its fleet. In April 1995, it went to Air Great Wall [CGW]. In October 2002, it went to China Eastern Airlines. In June 2004, it went to Blue Dart Aviation [BZ/BDA] (India) as VT-BDI, and was converted into a freighter. In May 2013, it was acquired by CSDS Aircraft Sales and Leasing. Trans Air acquired N737CS in October 2013.

Spring Airlines Japan's JA02GR

Spring Airlines Japan is taking delivery of their second 737-800 today with JA02GR (c/n 41256, l/n 4714). The GECAS-leased 737-86N is making its delivery flight from BFI as JA02GR, and will overnight at HNL.

Sheraton Hawai‘i Bowl Charters

This year's Sheraton Hawai‘i Bowl features the Boise State Broncos against the Oregon State Beavers. The collegiate football game will be played on Christmas Eve, at 1500HST, at Hawaiian Airlines Field at Aloha Stadium.

The Broncos arrive this afternoon from BOI on an Omni Air International 767-300 team charter, OAE208.

The Beavers also arrive this afternoon from PDX on an Atlas Air 767-300 team charter, GTI8071.

Malaysia's 9M-MXP

Malaysia Airlines is taking delivery of 9M-MXP (c/n 40153, l/n 4723) this afternoon. The 737-8H6 is making its delivery flight from BFI as MAS5473, and will overnight at HNL.\

Air China's B-5851

Air China is taking delivery of B-5851 (c/n 41313, l/n 4725) this morning. The 737-89L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA78, and will overnight at HNL.

China Eastern's B-1907

China Eastern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1907 (c/n 39730, l/n 4721) today. The Yunnan Peacock-clad 737-89P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES599, and will overnight at HNL.

Batik's PK-LBJ

Batik Air took delivery of PK-LBJ (c/n 38742, l/n 4726) early this morning. The 737-9GPER made its overnight delivery flight from BFI as BTK1. It made a brief fuel stop in the early morning at HNL.

Westjet's Annual 757 Service

For the third year in a row, Westjet has leased 757-200s from Thomas Cook to supplement its flights to Hawaii from Calgary [YYC] and Edmonton [YEG]. Seen above is G-FCLJ (c/n 26160, l/n 555) operating as WJA3008/3009 from YYC.

Makani Kai's N687MA Ditches Near LUP

N687MA (msn 208B1002), one of the two Makani Kai Air's Cessna C208B Grand Caravans ditched in the waters a half-mile from LUP around 15:45HST. According to news reports, one of the eight passengers died. Some passengers were rescued by the Maui Fire Department, and the US Coast Guard also rescued some of the passengers. One of those on board, swam back to shore. The Grand Caravan went down shortly after take-off from LUP. The passenger that perished in the crash was Hawai‘i Department of Health Director Loretta Fuddy.

Continuing coverage in this Hawai‘i News Now article.

Our condolences go out to Ms Fuddy's family, and thoughts and prayers go out to the crash survivors.

The above photo was taken in late October 2013.

Garuda's PK-GNC

Garuda Indonesia is taking delivery of PK-GNC (c/n 41312, l/n 4720) today. The 737-8U3 is making its delivery flight from BFI as GIA8011. It will overnight at HNL, before departing for PNI tomorrow.

Sorry, we were unable to get a photo of PK-GNC at HNL, but team member Drewski2112 got one at BFI.

Hainan's B-5855

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-5855 (c/n 39206, l/n 4716) today. The 737-84P is making its delivery flight from BFI as B5855, and will overnight at HNL.

Qantas' VH-ZXE

Qantas Airways is ferrying VH-ZXE (c/n 24343, l/n 364), a 767-336ER from SYD to MCI (via HNL) as QFA6023.

24343 was originally delivered to British Airways as G-BNWK in April 1991. It was acquired by Qantas in December 2000.

American and US Airways Merger Complete

The merger between American Airlines and US Airways has been completed. For the time being, the two carriers will operate separately while the two airlines applies for a Single Operating Certificate, which could take up to two years. 

In March 2014, US Airways will leave the Star Alliance, and join the oneworld alliance.

Further information in this American Airlines press release.


It appears that the current AAL and AWE flights to/from Hawai‘i will remain unchanged for the time being. We will see what changes will happen when the Single Operating Certificate is obtained.

Qantas' VH-TJR

Qantas Airways is ferrying VH-TJR "Cockatiel" (c/n 24443, l/n 2398), a 737-476, from MEL to VCV for storage as QFA6027. It made stops at SYD, APW, and HNL, along the way.

VH-TJR was originally delivered to Australian Airlines in November 1992, and absorbed into the Qantas fleet a year later, after the latter acquired the former carrier. 

Shandong's B-5856

Shandong Airlines' newest 737-89L arrived this morning as CDG5856 from Boeing Field. B-5856 (c/n 40040, l/n 4712) wears a special livery to commemorate the 2014 Qingdao International Horticultural Exposition. 

Batik's PK-LBI

Batik Air is taking delivery of PK-LBI (c/n 38743, l/n 4711) today. The 737-9GPER is making its delivery flight from BFI as BKI1, and will make its brief fuel stop at HNL.

Sorry, we were unable to get a photo of PK-LBI at HNL, but team member Drewski2112 got it at BFI.

N223CY

Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM) [Orlando, FL] is ferrying N233CY (c/n 26256, l/n 484), their newest 767-300F from SIN to GYR, via HNL. The 767-39HER(BCF) recently underwent freighter conversion at Paya Labar, Singapore. It's under lease to CAM from Guggenheim Aviation Partners.

26256 was originally purchased by ILFC, and leased to Leisure International Airways [MV/LEI] in March 19943 as G-UKLH. In November 1998, it was transferred to Air 2000 [DP/AMM] as G-OOAN. It then was leased to First Choice Airways [DP/FCA] in March 2004, and operated by Thomsonfly. In March 2004, Thomson Airways assumed the lease. In April 2013, Guggenheim acquired 26256 from ILFC, and had it sent in for freighter conversion.

CAM supplies 767-200F and 767-300F to a variety of cargo airlines in the US, Canada, and South America.

Xiamen's B-5847

Xiamen Air is taking delivery of B-5847 (c/n 41793, l/n 4709) today. The 737-85C is making its delivery flight from BFI as CXA5847, and will overnight at HNL.

We were unable to get a photo of B-5847 at HNL, but Rick Schlamp did at BFI.

Shanghai's B-1900

Shanghai Airlines is taking delivery of B-1900 (c/n 39306, l/n 4707) today. The 737-86D is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSH572, and will overnight at HNL.

We were not able to get a photo of B-1900 at HNL, but team member Drewski2112 did at BFI.

Qantas' VH-VZK

Qantas Airways is taking delivery of VH-VZK "Cook" (c/n 39366, l/n 4705) today. The 737-838 is making its delivery flight from BFI as QFA6024, and will overnight at HNL.

We were unable to get a photo of VH-VZK at HNL, but Rick Schlamp got one at BFI.

Hawaiian Adds Fourth Flight To BNE

With the overwhelming success of their HNL-BNE service, Hawaiian Airlines is upgrading to four weekly flights, which will add an additional 20,000 seats annually.

Further details in this Hawaiian Airlines press release.

Shenzhen's B-5860

Shenzhen Airlines is taking delivery of B-5860 (c/n 39139, l/n 4703) today. The 737-87L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSZ969, and will overnight at HNL to complete its first segment.

Hawaiian Begins A330 Service From Maui

Today, Hawaiian Airlines inaugurates it's first Airbus A330-243 service from Maui. The A330 will now be used for Seattle flights 29/30, replacing Boeing 767-300s.

Shown is ship N385HA (s/n 1295) "Manaiakalani" arriving OGG from HNL on a ferry flight today. Notice the closed window shades.

We would have liked to have gotten a picture of today's historic takeoff, but had to come home and mow the lawn.

Lightning Strikes Four Hawaiian Air Jetliners

Four Hawaiian Airlines aircraft suffered lightning strikes during yesterday's rain storms. One of their 767-300s, and three 717-200s were struck during the course of the storm cell that hovered over the Hawaiian Islands. Thankfully, no one was injured, but two of the 717-200s suffered minor damage, and were pulled from the line, causing flight delays.

Further details in this Civil Beat article. Mahalo to team member Funbird2006 for sharing the article.

Malaysia's 9M-MPL

Malaysia Airlines ferried 9M-MPL "Penang" (c/n 28428, l/n 1150) to VCV, to be put into storage. The 747-4H6 flew from KUL to VCV, with a stop at HNL as MAS5446. 9M-MPL was delivered to Malaysia Airlines in March 1998.

Chang An's B-5115

Our December edition of "HNL RareBirds Classic" goes back to February 2005, with the delivery flight HNL stopover of Chang An Airlines' B-5115 (c/n 29640, l/n 1649), a 737-8FH. Itʻs seen above on the Bradley Pacific Aviation ramp, with the original Hainan Air Group livery.

B-5115 was delivered to Chang An Airlines under lease from RBS in February 2005, then sold to SMBC in June 2012, while still leased to the airline. In the second half of 2011, it was painted into the 2007 red and yellow livery.

November 2013 Deliveries

Here were the 12 737NG deliveries that stopped through Hawai‘i in November 2013:
4680 | B-1910 | 39932 | China Eastern Airlines | -89P [11.08.13 CES599]
4677 | B-5809 | 39729 | China Eastern Airlines | -79P* [11.08.13 CES299]
4679 | PK-LOF | 38741 | Lion Air | -9GPER* [11.08.13 LNI1]
4669 | VH-XZJ | 39365 | Qantas Airways | -838* [11.09.13 QFA6024]
4678 | B-5853 | 39205 | Hainan Airlines | -84P [11.09.13 B5853 - LIH]
4681 | B-1909 | 40022 | Air China | -89L [11.09.13 CCA78]
4685 | 9M-MSJ | 40152 | Malaysia Airlines | -8H6 [11.12.13 MAS5473]
4684 | B-5858 | 39887 | China Eastern Airlines | -89P[11.13.13 CES599]
4688 | B-5688 | 41792 | Xiamen Air | -85C* [11.13.13 CXA5688]
4689 | B-5850 | 41311 | Dalian Airlines | -89L [11.15.13 CCA78]
4692 | PK-GNA | 41310 | Garuda Indonesia | -8U3 [11.15.13 GIA8011]
4687 | PK-LKZ | 38740 | Lion Air | -8GP [11.15.13 PKLKZ]
4694 | B-5857 | 39886 | China Eastern Airlines | -89P[11.20.13 CES599]
4695 | B-5859 | 39138 | Shenzhen Airlines | -87L [11.21.13 CSZ903]

-700: 1
-800: 12
-900ER: 1

Australia: 1
China: 9
Indonesia: 3
Japan: 0
Malaysia: 1

C-GYDH

A former Air Niugini Dash8-102, C-GYDH (msn 153), is making its way from POM to YYC (via MAJ and HNL). It made an overnight fuel stop at HNL, and left early this morning. This Dash8 was previously registered as P2-ANL.

153 was originally purchased by Guinness Peat Aviation (GPA), and leased to Hamburg Airlines in June 1989, as D-BOBO. It then went to Trans Travel Airlines in February 1998, then five months later to Cirrus Airlines (Team Lufthansa). Cirrus later changed D-BOBO's livery to its own identity in 2005. Air Niugini took delivery of 153, as P2-ANL, in April 2008. The Avmax Group purchased this Dash8 on November 19, 2013.

N494SA

A former Malaysia Airlines 737-4H6, N494SA (c/n 27674, l/n 2877), is making its way to the US mainland as it was purchased by Petrus Asset Management [Plano, TX]. The 737 will be making a stop at JRF, after originating from SZB (with stops at BIK and MAJ). The next stop for N494SA will be BFL [Meadows Field, Bakersfield, CA], with DHN [Dothan Regional Airport, Dothan, AL], where it will be converted into a freighter.

27674 was originally delivered to Malaysia Airlines as 9M-MQO in April 1997. It was leased to Lauda Air (May 1998 - February 1999) and Air Malta as 9H-ADL (March - November 1999). Petrus purchased 27674 this month.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The HNL RareBirds team wishes our fans and readers a Happy Thanksgiving!

Hawaiian's 14th A330-243

Hawaiian Airlines took delivery of its newest A330-243 on 11/20/2013. N395HA (c/n 1469) flew direct from the Airbus factory in Toulouse-Blagnac, France (LFBO/TLS) to Seattle-Tacoma International (KSEA/SEA) as HA9975 and departed on the 25th as HA8075.

The 14th A330-243 for Hawaiian is named ‘A‘a, the constellation Sirius. N395HA will be the last delivery of 2013. ‘A‘a is the first A330 to receive the new interior featuring the new premium economy seating that will be installed on all new deliveries. Hawaiian's current fleet of A330s will get the new interior starting early next year.

China Southern's B-2936

China Southern Airlines is ferrying B-2936 (c/n 27335, l/n 2609) to TUS to be placed in storage. The 737-37K is making its ferry flight from LAO to TUS (via GUM, MAJ, HNL, and OAK) as CSN2002.

B-2936 was originally delivered to Zhongyuan Aviation [CYN] in November 1994. It was transferred to the China Southern fleet after CYN was taken over by CSN in August 2000.

Sorry, we were unable to get a photo of B-2936 at HNL.

Landing on HNL's 26L

After a long and bumpy flight from SJC, I got a pleasant surprise when I realized that we were going to land on 26L. There are not many videos of landings on HNL's 26L/R runways, so I took one to share here:

HawaiianTo Modify Use Of PEDs

Hawaiian Airlines announced today, November 21, that passengers may use approved portable electronic devices (PED) on all domestic flights. This announcement follows the FAA's approval of passenger use of PEDs during all phases of flight. PEDs still must be in airplane mode from departure until landing. Below is a link to the page on Hawaiian's website detailing the use of PEDs on their flights.

Hawaiian Airlines PED information

Volga-Dnepr's RA-82045 At JRF

Volga-Dnepr Airlines' An-124-100, RA-82045 (msn 9773052255113), made a stop at JRF yesterday as it dropped off a Sikorsky S-61, C-FQNG (msn 61032), and picked up N906CH to return to its owner in Michigan. The Ruslan is flying as VDA1344, and originated in OSC [Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport, Oscoda, MI], and stopped at MSP. VDA1344 is presently at HNL.

C-FQNG is registered to VIH Helicopters [North Saanich, British Columbia, Canada].

Mahalo to the Naval Air Museum at Barbers Point for the photo!

Shenzhen's B-5859

Shenzhen Airlines is taking delivery of B-5859 (c/n 39138, l/n 4695) today. The 737-87L is making its delivery from BFI as CSZ903, and will overnight at HNL.

We were unable to get a photo of B-5859 at HNL, but team member Drewski2112 got a photo of it at BFI.

China Eastern's B-5857

Today, China Eastern Airlines is taking delivery of their fourth 737NG in the past twelve days. B-5857 (c/n 39886, l/n 4694), a 737-89P, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES599, and will overnight at HNL.

We were unable to get a photo of B-5857 at HNL, but team member Drewski2112 got a shot of it at BFI.


11.22.13 Update
CES599 waited an extra day, departed this morning for MAJ.

Mokulele Seeks To Operate From JRF

Mokulele Airlines is seeking to start Grand Caravan service to their Neighbor Island destinations in their route network from JRF. The airline would need governmental approval, and community support from those who reside in the Kalaeloa and Kapolei areas.

Further details in this Pacific Business news article.

IN322

An Indian Navy P-8I Neptune, IN322 (c/n 40612, l/n 4181) is making delivery flight to India as BOE203, and will stopover at HNL. The 737-8FV is also registered as N535DS.

9H-GGG

A Boeing BBJ, 9H-GGG (c/n 40119, l/n 4620), a 737-7ZX, owned by Maleth-Aero OAC (Malta), is stopping through HNL on its way to CHC (via NAN) for outfitting there. The flight, N9HGGG, originated from GED, and stopped at SJC. It is still wearing its green protective coating over the bare aluminum skin.

We were unable to get a photo of 9H-GGG at HNL, but team member Drewski2112 got one at BFI.

Garuda's PK-GNA

Garuda Indonesia is taking delivery of PK-GNA (c/n 41310, l/n 4692) today. The 737-8U3 is making its delivery flight from BFI as GIA8011, and will overnight at HNL.

We were unable to get a photo of PK-GNA at HNL, but Rick Schlamp got a photo of it at BFI.

Dalian's B-5850

Dalian Airlines is taking delivery of B-5850 (c/n 41311, l/n 4689) today. The 737-89L, originally ordered by parent Air China then allocated to Dalian, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA78, and will overnight at HNL.

N287KB

N287KB (c/n 49768, l/n 1595), an MD-87 owned by KEB Aircraft, has made a stop at HNL from  PSP. KEB Aircraft is owned by real estate developer Ken Behring, who once owned the NFL's Seattle Seahawks.

NASAʻs N426NA

One of NASAʻs P-3B Orions, N426NA (c/n 185-5175), arrived at HIK from NTD yesterday, and departed for PPG this morning.

Qantasʻ VX-ZXG

Qantas Airways is retiring another 767-336ER, VH-ZXG (c/n 25443, l/n 419), to aircraft storage facility at MCI. It arrived from SYD earlier this evening.

25443 was originally delivered to British Airways as G-BNWP in March 1992. In the late 90s, it was one of two BAW aircraft to wear the "Rendezvous" World Tail livery. It was then sold to Qantas in November 2000.

China Easternʻs B-5858

China Eastern Airlinesʻ B-5858 (c/n 39887, l/n 4684) is the second of two China-bound delivery flights today. The 737-89P is making its delivery flight as CES599, and will overnight at HNL. This is also China Eastern's third 737NG delivery flight within the past five days.

Xiamenʻs B-5688

In the first of two 737-800 trans-Pacific delivery flights today, Xiamen Air is taking delivery of B-5688 (c/n 41792, l/n 4688) today. The 737-85C is making its delivery flight from BFI as CXA5688, and will overnight at HNL. B-5688 is also wearing special markings noting that itʻs the 100th Boeing airliner delivered to Xiamen Air.

Mahalo to blog fan Wei for notifying us of the special livery.

Malaysiaʻs 9M-MSJ

Malaysia Airlines is taking delivery of 9M-MSJ (c/n 40152, l/n 4685) today. The 737-8H6 is making its delivery flight from BFI as MAS5473, and will overnight at HNL.

IN320

A 737-800, listed as BOE201, arrived at HNL yesterday afternoon, and is departing for GUM this morning as BOE201. It's a P-8I Neptune (737-8FV), and is registered as N393DS (c/n 40610, l/n 3702), destined for the Indian Navy as IN320, and was built in September 2011.

Here's a photo of IN320 at BFI, from team member Drewski2112.

Veterans Day

The HNL RareBirds team expresses a "Happy Veterans Day" to all of our fans and readers who served (or are serving) in the US Armed Forces! We thank you for service and sacrifice!

And ...  "Lest We Forget", itʻs also Remembrance Day is the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other nations. We thank you as well for your service and sacrifice!

Hauʻoli Lā Hānau Hawaiian Airlines!

Today, Hawaiian Airlines celebrates its 84th anniversary!

Air China's B-1909

Air China is taking delivery of B-1909 (c/n 40022, l/n 4681) this morning. The 737-89L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA78, and will overnight at HNL.

Qantas' VH-XZJ

Qantas Airways is taking delivery of VH-XZJ "Mendoowoorji" (c/n 39365 l/n 4669) this morning. The 737-838, wearing an Aboriginal artwork inspired by a Paddy Bedford painting, is making its delivery flight from BFI as QFA6024, and will pull a brief fuel stop at HNL.

Mahalo to team member Aeros for the photo!

Further details in this Australian Aviation article.

Lion Air's PK-LOF

Lion Air is taking delivery of their 100th 737NG, with PK-LOF (c/n 38741, l/n 4679) today. The 737-9GPER is making its delivery flight from BFI as LNI1, and will make its brief fuel stop at HNL. As seen above, it is wearing a commemorative special livery noting the accomplishment.

China Eastern's B-5809

China Eastern Airlines' second 737NG delivery flight today is B-5809 (c/n 39729, l/n 4677). The orange Yunnan Peacock-clad 737-79P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES299, and will overnight at HNL.

China Eastern's B-1910

China Eastern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1910 (c/n 39932, l/n 4680) today. It's the first of two 737NG delivery flights for China Eastern today. The 737-89P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES599, and will overnight at HNL.

E-3 Sentry AWACS at HNL/HIK?

Hey all you HNL spotters!  As I was driving by the airport westbound on the H-1 at about 17:50, I saw what appeared to be a KC-135 or otherwise 707/720 based aircraft on final, right out of the setting sun. Quite a beautiful sight, then I saw the big 'ol flying saucer atop the fuselage. An E-3? 

Any of you working at, or around the airport able to verify this or maybe even get a picture, especially if it happens to be a NATO bird? Don't see many E-3s here. Heck, we see more E-7s and E-767s than we do E-3s. I was driving the wrong way, and it was too close to landing for me to head over to the fences to try catch a glimpse or take a photo. 

October 2013 Deliveries

Here were the 18 737NG delivery flights that stopped through HNL in October 2013:

4630 | VH-XZI | 39364 | Qantas Airways | -838 "Kalbarri" [10.03.13 QFA6024]
4635 | PK-GFZ | 38044 | Garuda Indonesia | -86N [10.04.13 GIA8011]
4633 | JA73NY | 41623 | Skymark Airlines | -86N [10.05.13 SKY73NY]
4640 | 9M-MSI | 40151 | Malaysia Airlines | -8H6 [10.09.13 MAS5473]
4824 | B-5842 | 41262 | Okay Airways | -86N [10.10.13 OKA5842]
4645 | B-5845 | 39931 | Xiamen Air | -85C [10.12.13 CXA5845]
4642 | B-5836 | 38955 | China Southern Airlines | -81B [10.15.13 CSN18]
4649 | B-5849 | 41309 | Air China | -89L [10.17.13 CCA78]
4643 | HS-LTI | 38738 | Thai Lion Air | -9GPER [10.18.13 LNI1]
4651 | B-5852 | 39204 | Hainan Airlines | -84P [10.19.13 B5852]
4647 | B-5778 | 39137 | Shenzhen Airlines | -87L [10.22.13 CSZ901]
4653 | B-1901 | 38060 | Shanghai Airlines | -86D [10.22.13 CSH201]
4656 | 9M-MLT | 39334 | Malaysia Airlines | -8H6 [10.24.13 MAS5403]
4658 | B-5803 | 41093 | Air China | -79L [10.24.13 CCA78]
4659 | B-1908 | 41308 | China Eastern Airlines | -89P* [10.25.13 CES299]
4660 | B-5787 | 39114 | Shandong Airlines | -85N* [10.29.13 CDG5787]
4662 | B-5837 | 38956 | China Southern Airlines | -81B [10.29.13 CSN8]
4657 | HS-LTH | 38739 | Thai Lion Air | -9GPER [10.29.13 LNI1]

-700: 1
-800: 15
-900ER: 2

Australia: 1
China: 11
Japan: 1
Malaysia: 2
Indonesia: 1
Thailand: 2

N120US

Our November edition of "HNL RareBirds Classic" takes us to November 2005, when this former US Airways A320-214, N120US (msn 1286, f/n 120), was headed to its new lessee, Spring Airlines (China).  It's pictured above on the Anderson Aviation ramp (though handled by AirService Hawaii), while on a break, as it made its way to China for repainting, and interior reconfiguration. This was one of three former US Airways A320 series airliners that stopped through HNL en route to China.

1286 was originally purchased by GECAS, then leased and delivered to US Airways in August 2000, direct from the Airbus factory in TLS.  In January 2006, it was delivered Spring Airlines [9C/CQH] as B-6280. For a few months in late 2012, it wore the Austrian registry, OE-IBP, as it was sold to Celestial Aviation (Vienna, Austria). From there, it was leased to AirAsia [AK/AXM] (Malaysia) in February 2013 as 9M-AQT. A few months later, it was sub-leased to Zest Air [Z2/EZD] (Philippines) as RP-C8987. Most recently, Zest Air has rebranded as AirAsia Zest, as it formed a partnership with AirAsia and their Filipino subsidiary AirAsia Philippines.

Air Niugini's P2-ANA

Air Niugini's [PX/ANG] 767-366ER, P2-ANA (c/n 24541, l/n 275), will be making a stop at HNL from POM [Port Moresby, New Guinea], as it ferries to CEW [Crestview, FL]. It's making its ferry flight as ANG6002, as it's lease has expired.

Sorry, we were unable to get a photo of P2-ANA at HNL.

TransAir's N587CA

Earlier this month, TransAir painted the tail of N587CA to the livery of its cargo fleet, and added TransAir titles. It still retains the bottom section of the Rhoades livery, as well as their call-sign.

Thai Lion's HS-LTH

Thai Lion Air is taking delivery of their second 737-9GPER this month, with HS-LTH (c/n38739, l/n 4657). The 737-9GPER is making its late-night delivery flight from BFI as LNI1, that will make its usual brief fuel stop at HNL.

Sorry, we were unable to get a photo of HS-LTH at HNL.

China Southern's B-5837

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of their second 737-81B this month, with B-5837 (c/n 38956, l/n 4662). It's making its delivery flight from BFI as CSN8, and will overnight at HNL.

Shandong's B-5787

Shandong Airlines is taking delivery of B-5787 (c/n 39114, l/n 4660) this morning. The 737-85N, wearing a special livery for the 2014 Qingdao International Horticultural Exposition, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CDG5787, and will overnight at HNL.

ATI's N754CX

Starting today, Air Transport International (ATI) has switched their SUU-HIK-KWA flight from the venerable DC-8-62CFs to the 757-200Cs. The last DC-8-62CF flight was operated on October 24th. N754CX (c/n 26154, l/n 486) made the first 757-2Y0C flight as ATN430. It's seen above taxiing to HIK, on Taxiway A.

N353AS

A 737-484 previously leased by R Airlines is making its way back to its lessors on the mainland. Owned by AerSale Inc, N353AS (c/n 25313, l/n 2109) made its way from Clark International Airport (CLK/RPLC), Philippines via Guam and Majuro before arriving at Kalaeloa (JRF/PHJR) this morning.

25313 was delivered to Olympic Airways as SX-BKA in December of 1991. It flew with Olympic Airways until December 2003, and was sent to Athens for storage. In May 2005, it was bought by AerSale Inc and re-registered as N353AS. In November 2012, it was leased to R Airlines (operated by Skyview Airways) in Thailand as HS-RCA.


10.27.13 Update
N353AS departed for TUS in the afternoon, then terminated at ROW.

China Eastern's B-1908

China Eastern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1908 (c/n 41308, l/n 4659) this morning. The 737-89P, clad in the orange Yunnan Peacock livery, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES299, and will overnight at HNL.

Malaysia's 9M-MLT

Malaysia Airlines is taking delivery of 9M-MLT (c/n 39334, l/n 4656) today. It's their second 737-8H6 they are receiving this month, and is making its delivery flight as MAS5403 that will overnight at HNL.

Air China's B-5803

Air China is taking delivery of B-5803 (c/n 41093, l/n 4658) today. The 737-79L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA78, and will overnight at HNL.

N861MA Update

We went over to the Wailea side of Maui today, and saw the Mokulele Airlines Grand Caravan that landed on Pi‘ilani Highway Monday night. It's being protected by a Maui Police Department officer,  until they figure out how to get it back to the airport.

You can see the touchdown skidmarks on the oncoming lane. The Grand Caravan came to a stop about 50 yards from the intersection in the distance, and just around the corner from the fire station.

Shanghai's B-1901

Shanghai Airlines is taking delivery of B-1901 (c/n 38060, l/n 4653) this morning. The 737-86D is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSH207, and will overnight at HNL. It's seen above, pulling into its parking spot.

It appears that the People's Republic of China has begun assigning the B-19xx registrations to 737NGs, since the B-59xx block is being given to A320 series airliners. There are still B-58xx registrations available, and assigned to 737NGs as well.

Shenzhen's B-5778

Shenzhen Airlines is taking delivery of B-5778 (c/n 39137, l/n 4647) this morning. The 737-87L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSZ901, and will overnight at HNL. It's seen above, shortly after arriving from BFI.

Hawaiian Renews HND-KOA Application

Hawaiian Airlines will refile their application Thursday, with the US Department of Transportation for a second slot at HND, for A330-243 service to/from KOA. They are bidding for the slot that American Airlines is returning the US DoT.

Further details in this Hawaiian Airlines press release.

Mokulele Airlines Highway Emergency Landing

Local news is reporting that a Mokulele Airlines Grand Caravan made an emergency landing on Maui's Pi‘ilani Highway, near Wailea and Kihei last night. The aircraft N861MA (msn 208B0825) a C208B Grand Caravan had reportedly taken off from Kahului Airport (PHOG/OGG) enroute to Kamuela on the Big Island (PHMU/MUE) as flight MW1770, when it experienced engine problems and forced the plane to land on the highway.

There were 8 passengers and 2 crew members on the flight. Thankfully, no one was injured. The NTSB was on scene to investigate the incident.

Links to local news sources (with pictures and video):

Maui News

Hawaii News Now

Honolulu Star-Advertiser

KHON

Qantas' VH-TJY

Qantas Airways is sending VH-TJZ "Port Pirie" (c/n 28152, l/n 2829), a 737-476, to VCV for storage. It's flying from MEL to VCV (via SYD, APW, and HNL) as QFA6027.

 

VH-TJZ was delivered to Qantas November of 1996. The last time this aircraft was in Honolulu was during its delivery flight from Boeing on November 10, 1996 as QFA6904 taking the airplane from BFI to MEL via HNL, APW and NAN.

Photo to follow...

Hainan's B-5852

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-5852 (c/n 39204, l/n 4651) today. The 737-84P is making its delivery flight from BFI as B5852, and will overnight at HNL.

Thai Lion's HS-LTI

The Lion Air Group is opening a low-cost subsidiary in Thailand, called Thai Lion Air. The new airline is taking delivery of their first 737-9GPER today, as HS-LTI (c/n 38738, l/n 4643) makes its delivery flight from BFI as LNI1. It made its brief fuel stop before heading out to MAJ. As you can se in the above photo, Lion Air added "Thai" in grey, and country's flag to the livery.  HS-LTI is the first of six 737-9GPERs for the new carrier.

Further details about Thai Lion Air in this CAPA - Centre For Aviation article.

Hawaiian To Add LAX Service To KOA And LIH

Hawaiian Airlines announced today that they will expand their summer LAX service to/from KOA [Kona, Hawai'i Island] and LIH [Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi], with service commencing in June 2014, and will run for three months. Hawaiian will use their 767-300ERs for the three-times per week flights between KOA and LAX, and four-times per week flights between LIH and LAX.

Further information in this Hawaiian Airlines press release.

Air China's B-5849

Air China is taking delivery of B-5849 (c/n 41309, l/n 4649) this morning. The 737-89L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA78, and will overnight at HNL.

All Nippon Air JA627A

Today, one of All Nippon Air's winglet equipped 767-381ERs arrived as NH1052 from Narita. JA627A (c/n 40898, l/n 1023) returned to Narita as NH1051. To my knowledge, this is the second time that All Nippon has sent a "New build" 767-381ER to Honolulu. 

Runway 8R/26L Closure

Beginning today, HNL's Runway 8R/26L, the "Reef Runway", will be closed for the next two weeks as the section between Taxiways RG and RM will be re-paved.  The end sections from Taxiway RA to RG, and RB to RM, are already completed, with limited take-off capability.  However, the closure will revet HNL to the "old days" prior to the "Reef Runway", with commercial and military traffic departing from Runway 8L/26R.

China Southern's B-5836

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-5836 (c/n 38955, l/n 4642) this morning. The 737-81B is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSN18, and will overnight at HNL.

Xiamen's B-5845

Xiamen Air is taking delivery of B-5845 (c/n 39931, l/n 4645) this morning. The 737-85C is making its delivery flight from BFI as CXA5845, and will overnight at HNL.

Okay Air's B-5842

Okay Airways is taking delivery of B-5842 (c/n 41262, l/n 4624) today. The GECAS-leased 737-86N is making its delivery flight from BFI as OKA5842, and will overnight at HNL.

Sorry, we were unable to get a photo of B-5842 at HNL.

Malaysia's 9M-MSI

Malaysia Airlines is taking delivery of 9M-MSI (c/n 40151, l/n 4640) today. The 737-8H6 is making its delivery flight from BFI as MAS5473, and will overnight at HNL.

Jetstar Airways 787-8 Dreamliner VH-VKA

Jetstar Airways is taking delivery of their first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft VH-VKA (c/n 36227, l/n 123) today. The 787-8 is making its delivery flight from Paine Field Snohomish County Airport (KPAE/PAE) to Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (YMML/MEL) via HNL as JST7878.

The flight is scheduled to arrive into HNL at 1340L on 07OCT, and depart for MEL the next morning. This flight will also mark the first time the 787 has touchdown in HNL. Boeing normally does do warm weather testing of the 787 in KOA, but has never brought the aircraft into HNL.