Asia Pacific Airlines' N705AA Ferried

Asia Pacific Airlines is ferrying N705AA (c/n 22462, l/n 1751) to MCI [Kansas City, MO] from GUM, via TKK, PNI, HNL, PHX and IGM [Kingman, AZ] for a "C" Check.

On another note, sister ships N319NE (c/n 21349, l/n 1289), and N86425 (c/n 21459, l/n 1329), both 727-212Fs, had their registrations canceled by Asia Pacific Airlines, and being used for parts for 705.

Shandong Airlines' B-1273

Shandong Airlines is taking delivery of B-1273 (c/n 43909, l/n 6950) today. This 737-85N is making its delivery flight from BFI as CDG1273, and will overnight at HNL.

Sun Country Airlines Launches HNL Service

Today, Sun Country Airlines launched its four-times-weekly service between MSP and HNL, via LAX. The MSP-LAX segment is operated SCX421/430, and the LAX-HNL segment is operated as SCX721/730.

N821SY "Lake Mille Lacs" (c/n 39952, l/n 5217) made the maiden flight from MSP to HNL, via LAX, and will be based at LAX.

Mahalo to Charlie Alfa for the photo of N821SY on final for Runway 8L.

Lion Air's PK-LQO

Lion Air is taking delivery of PK-LQO (c/n 42998, l/n 6911) this afternoon. This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as LNI1, and will make a brief fuel stop at HNL, before continuing onto GUM.

Koloa Aviation Upgrades N820MS To G-V

Koloa Aviation has added a second Gulfstream jet. They upgraded N820MS, from the G-IV (msn 1147) to the G-V (msn 626), and has a new livery. Their G-IV has been re-registered as N820MG.

Mokulele Airlines To Relocate To Terminal 3

As part of the HNL's modernization program, Mokulele Airlines is being relocated to Terminal 3, on the Diamond Head end of the airport this week. The new location will begin operations on Tuesday, May 29th. The move comes as the Commuter Terminal will be torn down to make way for the Inter-island Terminal's Mauka Extension construction project.

Located behind the Delta Air Lines Cargo facility, Mokulele will be using Hardstand 1C for their flight operations, where they will four spots for their Grand Caravans.

Hebei Airlines' B-1258

Hebei Airlines is taking delivery of B-1258 (c/n 42978, l/n 6939) today. This 737-8LW is making its delivery flight from BFI as HBH1258, and will overnight at HNL.

N723AC

N723AC (c/n 30034, l/n 1275), a 737-75C, is ferrying from XMN [Gaoqi International Airport, Xiamen, China] to GYR [Goodyear, AZ], via GUM and HNL.

30034 was originally delivered to Xiamen Airlines in February 2003 as B-5028, under lease from ILFC. In May 2014, B-5028 was sold to ILFC, and its lease transferred. In 2016, it was painted in the current livery. It was withdrawn from service in April 2018.

China Eastern Airlines' B-1255

China Eastern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1255 (c/n 61699, l/n 6937) this afternoon. This 737-89P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES9001, and will overnight at HNL.

WestJet Airlines Unveils New Livery

WestJet Airlines unveiled a new livery that will be featured on their ten 787-9 Dreamliners, that will begin deliveries in the first quarter of 2019. New deliveries of their 737 MAX 8 fleet will feature this new livery, beginning in June. The existing fleet will be repainted as they go through their heavy maintenance checks.

Further information and links in this WestJet press release.

China Southern Airlines' B-1239

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1239 (c/n 63260, l/n 6933) this morning. This 737-81B is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSN1239, and will overnight at HNL.

N594HA Returns

Hawaiian Airlines has brought back N594HA "‘Ulili" (c/n 23275, l/n 136) from retirement at MZJ as HAL9975. The airline made the move, as deliveries of their A321-271Ns have been delayed due to the modifications to the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G Geared Turbofan engines.

N205HA "Kalo" (msn 8092, f/n 205) is ready for delivery at XFW. Both N208HA (msn 8123, f/n 208) and N209HA (msn 8186, f/n 209) are at XFW, but have yet to make their first flights.

Southwest Airlines Says They Will Fly Inter-Island

On an appearance on Hawai News Now's "Sunrise" morning news show, representatives from Southwest Airlines said that they will launch their west coast to Hawai‘i service with 737-8H4s, then transition to the 737 MAX 8s. The first four west coast cities will be all in California: Oakland, San José, Sacramento, and San Diego. Also, they intend to launch inter-island service once service is established.

Shenzhen Airlines' B-1376

Shenzhen Airlines is taking delivery of B-1376 (c/n 61123, l/n 6932) today. This 737-87L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSZ1376, and will overnight at HNL.

American Airlines Winter Season ORD-HNL Service

American Airlines announced today that the winter season service between ORD and HNL will return on 19 December 2018, though this year, it will be with their 787-8s.

In the past, American used their DC-10-30s (1990s), and their 767-300ERs (2000s, and 2010s).

Further information in this American Airlines press release.

Samaritan's Purse N782SP To Assist Kaua‘i Flood Victims

Samaritan's Purse will be flying in disaster relief supplies for those affected by the torrential rains and flooding in the northern end of Kaua‘i. Their DC-8-72CF, N782SP (c/n 46013, l/n 427) will fly from GSO [Piedmont Triad International Airport, Greensboro, NC] to LIH [Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i] as NSP8. They will bring in relief supplies and personnel to assist with cleanup efforts in Hanalei, and surrounding areas.

Further information in this Samaritan's Purse webpage.

N782SP was here at HNL in December 2017 on a stopover.

Federal Express' N614FE

Our May edition of "HNL RareBirds Classic" goes back to 1998. with FedEx's MD-11F, N614FE "Christy Allison" (c/n 48258, l/n 507, f/n 614), seen above on Taxiway RT.

N614FE was delivered to Federal Express in November 1992. It was originally ordered by American Airlines as N1759, but was not taken up. This MD-11F continues to fly with FedEx, with the aircraft's name shortened to "Christy".

SilkAir's 9V-MBE

SilkAir is taking delivery of 9V-MBE (c/n 44242, l/n 6890) today. This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as SLK8880, and will overnight at KOA.

Where The Island Air's Q400s Ended Up

In doing a search of the PlaneSpotters.net database, here are where the former Island Air Q400s were leased to following the airline's closure, and lease returns:

N681WP "‘Ola Kūpono" (msn 4543) was bought by WestJet Encore as C-FWEW (f/n 451).

N682WP "Na‘au Pono" (msn 4546) was bought by WestJet Encore as C-GEWR (f/n 452).

N683WP "Kulana Pono" (msn 4554) has been leased by Elix Aviation Capital to JamboJet [JM/JMA] (Kenya) this past February as 5Y-JXE (f/n JJ4).

N684WP "Laulima" (msn 4328) has been leased by NAC to Spicejet [SG/SEJ] (India) in November 2017 as VT-SUX.

and

N685WP "Po‘okela" (msn 4339) has also been leased by NAC to SpiceJet in November 2017 as VT-SUY.

VP-BEL

VP-BEL (c/n 29139, l/n 189), a 737-74T BBJ, owned by Orient Global Aviation, has made a stop at HNL.

It was also photographed at HNL in 2014.

Hainan Airlines' B-1387

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-1387 (c/n 62196, l/n 6758) today. This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as CHH1387, and will overnight at ITO. This is one of very few delivery flights to stop at the Hilo International Airport.

China United Airlines' B-1277

China United Airlines' second 737-89P delivery today, is B-1277 (c/n 63061, l/n 6892). It's making its delivery flight from BFI as CUA277, and will overnight at HNL.

China United Airlines' B-1278

China United Airlines is taking delivery of two 737-89Ps today. B-1278 (c/n 63060, l/n 6905) is making its delivery flight from BFI as CUA278, and will overnight at HNL.

Thai Lion Air HS-LSI

Thai Lion Air is taking delivery of HS-LSI (c/n 42992, l/n 6816) this evening. This 737 MAX 9 is making its delivery flight as TLM1, and will make a fuel stop at HNL.

D-APGS

D-APGS (msn 3046), an A319-115CJ, owned by K5-Aviation (Germany), is making a stop at HNL.

Southwest Airlines Announces Service To Four Airports

World Airline News reports that Southwest Airlines announced that they will serve all four major Hawai‘i airports (HNL, OGG, KOA, and LIH), as part of their planned 737 MAX 8 Hawai‘i service from west coast gateway cities. The airline is still mum on inter-island service, which has been heavily rumored.

China Southern Airlines' B-1236

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1236 (c/n 63259, l/n 6918) this morning. This 737-81B is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSN1236, and will overnight at HNL.

2-MSII

2-MSII (c/n 40151, l/n 4640), a former Malaysia Airlines 737-8H6, is ferrying from KUL to MZJ. It was delivered to Malaysia Airlines in October 2013 as 9M-MSI, and flew until September 2017, when it was withdrawn from service in September 2017. It was acquired by Orix Aircraft Corporation, and will be stored at MZJ.

All Nippon Airways Unveils More A380 Honu Liveries

World Airline News reports that All Nippon Airways has unveiled two additional "Honu" (Hawaiian for green sea turtle) color themes for the three A380-800s they will be using exclusively for the Tōkyo - Honolulu service, beginning in spring 2019. Initially unveiled in 2017, the honu livery featured a blue turtle. Now there will also be an orange honu, and a green honu. The blue A380 will be named "Lani" (sky), the orange A380 will be named "Ka La" (sunset), and the green A380 will be named "Kai" (ocean).

Virgin Americas Brand's Last Day

Today, marks the last day of the Virgin America brand, as the airline will become solely Alaska Airlines. VRD1948 (SFO-LAX) was the final Virgin America flight this evening.

Shanghai Airlines's B-1261

Shanghai Airlines is taking delivery of B-1261 (c/n 61629, l/n 6796) this morning. This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSH9761, and will overnight at HNL.

Shandong Airlines' B-1227

Shandong Airlines is taking delivery fo B-1227 (c/n 43908, l/n 6916) this morning. This 737-85N, their second delivery within a week, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CDG1227, and will overnight at HNL.

Mokulele Airlines To Relocate To Terminal 3

On 29 May 2018, Mokulele Airlines will relocate their operations to "Terminal 3", where Hardstands 4 and 5 are currently. Their driveway will be through the security gate located between the United Airlines Cargo and Delta Air Lines Cargo facilities off of Aolele Street. Their check-in, terminal, and baggage claim will reportedly operate out of temporary structures.

WestJet Airlines' C-FRYV

WestJet Airlines has switched from their 767-338ERs to their 737 MAX 8s on their flights between Hawai‘i and the Province of Alberta. C-FRYV (c/n 60514, l/n 6819) made the first flight today from YYC to OGG as WJA1850, and was to fly to YEG as WJA1885, but the flight was diverted to HNL.

Qantas To Upguage To Seasonal 747-400

The Australian Business Traveler reports that Qantas will upguage their QFA3/QFA4 service from their A330-300s to their 747-438s for their summer travel season (07 Dec 2018 to late-April 2019).

N675AN

N675AN (c/n 29425, l/n 817), a former American Airlines 757-223, is ferrying from VQQ [Cecil Field, Jacksonville, FL] to SZX [Shenzhen, China], via TUS [Tuscon, AZ], HNL and GUM, headed to join the SF Airlines fleet. It will be re-registered as B-1231.

29425 was originally delivered to American Airlines in August 1998 as N675AN (f/n 5EG). It had Blended Winglets installed in 2008, and flew with American until August 2015, where it was placed into storage at ROW [Roswell, NM]. In January 2017, it was sold to Jetran, and ferried six months later to VQQ for freighter conversion. After conversion, it was acquired by SF Airlines.

United To End Guam Turboprop Service

United Airlines announced that they will end their United Express (Cape Air [9K/KAP]) ATR42 turboprop service on Guam, effective May 31, 2018. United will switch over to mainline 737-824 service, beginning on June 1, 2018. This was also United Express' last turboprop service. Seen above is, N42836 (msn 200) is one of the three ATR42-320s for Cape Air, and was photographed in August 2004, as it made its delivery flight to GUM.

It's not known when Cape Air will ferry their three ATR42s to the mainland, and which route they'll take.

Further information in this World Airline News article.

N42386 was originally delivered to Bar Harbor Airlines (Continental Connection operator) [AJC] in August 1990. In July 1991, it was acquired by ExpressJet Airlines [EV/ASQ], and continued in the Continental Connection network, after Bar Harbor shutdown. In May 2004, it was sold to Cape Air (another Continental Connection operator), and ferried three months later to its island-hopping operations on Guam (f/n 836). When United Airlines merged with Continental Airlines in 2010, Cape Air and its fleet became part of the United Express network.

Kona Air Shuttle Seeks Partnership

CH-Aviation.com reports that the Kona Air Shuttle is seeking additional partners as they seek to expand members-only service between KOA and Los Angeles, CA and Seattle, WA. 

The current service is between KOA an OAK, is operated by a Kaiser Air [KI/KAI] 737-86N, N733KA (c/n 28643, l/n 828), as KAI99.

Far Eastern Air Transport To Buy 11 737 MAX 8s

World Airline News reports that Far Eastern Air Transport [FE/FEA] (Taiwan) will purchase 11 737 MAX 8s, that will be delivered over the next five years, beginning in the first quarter of 2019. The 737 MAX 8s will replace the airline's eight MD-80s, that average 23.7 years old.

Shandong Airlines' B-1226

Shandong Airlines is taking delivery of B-1226 (c/n 61439, l/n 6902) this morning. This 737-85N is making its delivery flight from BFI as CDG1226, and will overnight at HNL.

Jiangxi Air's B-1268

Jiangxi Air is taking delivery of B-1268 (c/n 63688, l/n 6901) this morning. This 737-85C is making its delivery flight from BFI as CJX8967, and will overnight at HNL. For its legs out of HNL, the flight code will change to CJX8989.

Азросибиръ N25299

N25299 (msn 108M01), a Mil Mi-17 helicopter, has arrived at JRF to be part of the motion picture "Triple Frontier", being filmed on O‘ahu. The Soviet-era built helicopter (1984) with "Аэросибиръ" titles will be based at JRF, throughout its stay here. This Mi-17 has "Ми-8МТЬ-1" on both sides of the nose section, as the Mi-17 is an advanced version of the Mi-8. This helicopter is owned by Vertol Systems Co, Inc (Hillsboro, OR).

Hainan Airlines' B-1103

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-1103 (c/n 44400, l/n 6894) today. This 737-84P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CHH1103, and will overnight at HNL.

V Air's N805AV

Avianca [AV/AVA] (Colombia) is taking delivery of N805AV (msn 6009), leased from Wells Fargo Bank Northwest. This A321-231SL, still in the V Air livery, is making its delivery flight from TPE [Taipei, Taiwan] to TUS [Tucson, AZ], with stops at GUM, HNL, where it will get the Avianca livery and interior configuration.

6009 was originally delivered to TransAsia Airways [GE/TNA] (Taiwan) in March 2014 as B-22608. It was leased to V Air [ZV/VAX] (Taiwan), TransAsia's low-cost subsidiary from October 2014 to October 2016 as B-22610. This A321 remained in the above V Air livery after the airline shutdown. However, TransAsia also shutdown in November 2016. The airframe was acquired by WFBN, and stored at TPE.

Lion Air to Buy 50 737 MAX 10s

Lion Air and Boeing announced that the Indonesian airline group will purchase 50 737 MAX 10s, to go along with their other outstanding 737 MAX orders for the MAX 8 and MAX 9. It hasn't been determined which the group's airlines will get the MAX 10s first.

Further information in this Boeing Airplanes press release.

SilkAir's 9V-MBD

SilkAir is taking delivery of 9V-MBD (c/n 44241, l/n 6828) today. This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as SLK8880, and will overnight at KOA.

Amazon Prime Air's N1217A

Amazon Prime Air's N1217A (c/n 25865, l/n 430, f/n 17A), a 767-375ERF, made a round-trip flight from ONT as GTI3598 (and GTI3599 on the return leg), and operated by Atlas Air. The flight arrived last evening, and returned this afternoon.

We're trying to find out if this was a proving flight for Amazon Prime Air.

N1217A was previously registered as N631GT, and stopped through HNL in November 2016, on its way to QPG for freighter conversion.

Surinam Airways' N348JS

Surinam Airways is taking delivery of N348JS (c/n 34538, l/n 1853). This 737-79L, leased from DAE Capital, is making its delivery flight from CTU [Chengdu, China] to PBM [Zanderij International Airport, Paramaribo, Suriname], via GUM, HNL, ELP [El Paso, TX], and MIA [Miami, FL].

34538 was originally delivered to Air China in January 2006 as B-5203, leased from AWAS. In August 2017, it was sold to DAE Capital, and the lease with Air China was transferred. 34538 was returned to DAE Capital earlier this month.

Allegiant Air's RP-C3197

Allegiant Air is taking delivery of a former Cebu Pacific Air A319-111, RP-C3197 (msn 2852). It's making its delivery flight from CAN [Guangzhou, China] to GYR [Goodyear, AZ], via GUM and HNL, as RPC3197.

RP-C3197 was delivered to Cebu Pacific Air in August 2006, and flew with the airline until this past January. It was ferried from Manila to Guangzhou for maintenance and repaint.

TransAsia Airways' N810AV

Avianca [AV/AVA] (Colombia) is taking delivery of N810AV (msn 6294), leased from Wells Fargo Bank Northwest. This A321-231SL, still in the TransAsia Airways livery, is making its delivery flight from TPE [Taipei, Taiwan] to TUS [Tucson, AZ], with stops at GUM, HNL, where it will get the Avianca livery and interior configuration.

6294 was originally delivered to TransAsia Airways [GE/TNA] (Taiwan) in September 2014 as B-22610. It was leased to V Air [ZV/VAX] (Taiwan), TransAsia's low-cost subsidiary from June 2015 to October 2016 as B-22610. This A321 was returned to its parent company in full livery after V Air shutdown. However, TransAsia also shutdown in November 2016. The airframe was acquired by WFBN, and stored at TPE.

N935UW

N935UW (c/n 27201, l/n 605), a former American Airlines 757-2B7, is ferrying from GYR [Goodyear, AZ] to CTU [Chengdu, China] (via HNL and GUM), for freighter conversion.

27201 was originally delivered to US Air in March 1994 as N622AU. It was repainted to the navy blue / grey livery as the airline rebranded itself as US Airways in February 1997. In late 2004, it became one of the airline's Star*Alliance logojets, that it would wear until 2010. In January 2007, it was sold to Aircastle and leased back to US Airways, then re-registered as N935UW (f/n 935); and two years later, had Blended Winglets installed. After its time wearing the Star*Alliance special livery, it was painted in the final US Airways livery in late 2010. In December 2013, it was transferred into the American Airlines, as they acquired US Airways. American Airlines returned N935UW to Aircastle in October 2017, and stored it at Goodyear, AZ.

ATA's N331TZ

Our April edition of "HNL RareBirds Classic" recognizes the 10th anniversary of the closure of American Trans Air (ATA), with this November 2005 photo of N331TZ (c/n 30660, l/n 1330). This 737-83N is seen above, departing from Runway 8L. ATA shut down its operations on 02 April 2008, three days after Aloha Airlines closed its doors.

30660 was delivered to American Trans Air in June 2003, leased from ILFC as N331TZ. It was returned to ILFC in early 2006, then leased to SpiceJet [SG/SEJ] (India) in April 2006 as VT-SPH "Saffron". In March 2012, it was returned to ILFC, and two months later, leased to T'Way Air [TW/TWB] (Republic of Korea) as HL8286. In May 2014, this 737-83N was acquired by AerCap, and the lease transferred to T'Way, where it continues to fly today.

Happy Easter!

The HNL RareBirds team wishes you all a Happy Easter!

Hainan Airlines' B-1388

Hainan Airlines led off the month of March with a 737 delivery flight, and ends the month with a 737 delivery flight with B-1388 (c/n 62199, l/n 6780). This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight this morning from BFI as CHH1388, and will overnight at HNL. It's also Hainan's third 737 delivery this month (2 -84Ps, and a MAX 8).

China United Airlines' B-1279

China United Airlines is taking delivery of their third 737-89P in nine days, with B-1279 (c/n 63058, l/n 6883). It's making its delivery flight from BFI as CUA279, and will overnight at HNL.

Shandong Airlines' B-1230

Shandong Airlines is taking delivery of B-1230 (c/n 43907, l/n 6885) this morning. This 737-85N, their second delivery this month, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CDG1230, and will overnight at HNL.

9 Air's B-1233

9 Air is taking delivery of B-1233 (c/n 61365, l/n 6832) this morning. This 737-86X is making its delivery flight from BFI as JYH1233, and will overnight at HNL.

China Southern Airlines' B-2053

China Southern Airlines is ferrying B-2053 (c/n 27359, l/n 46) from Guangzhou, China [CAN] to Victorville, CA [VCV] via HNL as CSN8653. This 777-21B arrived this afternoon, as it will head into storage at VCV.

New South Ramp Designations

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Airports Division has designated the parking spots south of the AirService Hawaii Makai Hangar as Spots 188A and 188B. FBOs have been using the two stands for delivery and ferry flights. 

Asia Pacific Airlines used the parking spot closest to the hangar for their 727-200F operations, but with the 757-200s, they moved to Hardstands I and J; though some of their ground equipment remains next to the AirService hangar.

Pacific Air Cargo's N703CK

Kalitta Air has painted N703CK (c/n 24226, l/n 809), a 747-412F, in the Pacific Air Cargo special livery, and is now doing the LAX-HNL run (CKS368/369).

24226 was originally delivered to Singapore Airlines in September 1990 as 9V-SMG. In July 2004, it was purchased by Air India as VT-AIE "Mamallpuram". In May 2007, Boeing Aircraft Holdings acquired 24226, and converted to a freighter, and six months later, sold to Aircastle, who leased it to Martinair Holland as PH-MPR. In November 2012, Aircastle leased this 747-412F to Air Atlanta Icelandic as TF-AMF. From January 2013 to October 2015, it was subleased to Saudi Arabian Airlines; and from October 2015 to November 2016, subleased to Air Bridge Cargo. It was returned to Aircastle, and stored at MCI. Jet Midwest purchased this airliner in February 2017 as N262JM, and sold it nine months later to Kalitta Air. It was re-registered as N703CK in February 2018.

China United Airlines' B-1280

China United Airlines is taking delivery of B-1280 (c/n 63056, l/n 6800) today. This 737-89P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CUA280, and will overnight at HNL.

Dubai Air Wing's A6-HRM

One of the Dubai Air Wing's 747-400s has made a stop at HNL. A6-HRM (c/n 26903, l/n 1171), a 747-422, arrived this afternoon from LAX.

26903 was originally delivered to United Airlines in August 1998 as N108UA, and flew with United until January 2003. Eight months later, it was delivered to the Dubai Air Wing [DUB] (United Arab Emirates) as A6-HRM, with a new VIP-configured cabin.

China Southern Airlines' B-1238

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1238 (c/n 63258, l/n 6855) today. This 737 MAX 8, their fifth 737 delivery this month, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSN168, and will overnight at HNL.

Air China 's B-1223

Air China is taking delivery of its second 737 MAX 8 in three days (and third this month), with B-1223 (c/n 60889, l/n 6850) today. It's making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA47, and will overnight at HNL.

China Southern Airlines' B-1283

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1283 (c/n 63407, l/n 6856) this morning. This 737-81B is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSN183, and will overnight HNL.

Air China's B-1219

Air China is taking delivery of B-1219 (c/n 60890, l/n 6865) today. This 737-89L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA48, and will overnight at HNL.

Okay Airways' B-1228

Okay Airways is taking delivery of B-1228 (c/n 63619, l/n 6867) today. This 737-8KF is making its delivery flight from BFI as OKA1228, and will overnight at HNL.

Hawaiian Airlines And Japan Airlines Start Codeshare

Hawaiian Airlines and Japan Airlines launched codeshare ticket sales today, and will launch their codeshare flights on Sunday March 25th with JAL781(HNL-NRT) and HAL457 (HNL-HND).

Further information in this Hawaiian Airlines press release, and Japan Airlines press release.

Japan TransOcean Air's JA07RK

Japan TransOcean Air is taking delivery of JA07RK (c/n 61485, l/n 6863) today. This 737-8Q3 is making its delivery flight from BFI as JTA9851, and will overnight at HNL.

China Southern Airlines' B-1237

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1237 (c/n 63257, l/n 6835) today. This 737-81B, their third 737 delivery in two days, is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSN137, and will overnight at HNL.

Shenzhen Airlines' B-1377

Shenzhen Airlines is taking delivery of B-1377 (c/n 61134, l/n 6844) this morning. This 737-87L is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSZ1377, and will overnight at HNL.

China United Airlines' B-1281

China United Airlines is taking delivery of B-1281 (c/n 63054, l/n 6761) this morning. This 737-89P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CUA281, and will overnight at HNL.

Xiamen Air Orders 30 737 MAXs

CH-Aviation reports that Xiamen Air has placed an order with Boeing for 30 737 MAXs. The order consists of 20 737 MAX 8s and ten 737 MAX 10s, with the first delivery set for 2019.

‘Ohana by Hawaiian's N810HC

‘Ohana by Hawaiian is taking delivery of their second ATR72-212F, N801HC "Ala‘oli" (msn 423) today. It's being flown in by Southern Cross Aviation as SXA463.

N810HC (msn 423) was delivered to Avianova, under leased from BBAM in February 1995 as EI-CLB "Lago di Bracciano". In December 2005, it was acquired by Alitalia Express as I-ATRO. It went to Magellan Aircraft Services in November 2010, and four months later it was sold to First Air as C-GLHR. In April 2012, it was converted to a freighter. In August 2015, it was acquired by ‘Ohana.

Thai Lion Air's HS-LSH

Thai Lion Air is taking delivery of their first 737 MAX 9, HS-LSH (c/n 42991, l/n 6771), today. Thai Lion Air is the launch customer for the MAX 9, and HS-LSH is making its delivery flight from BFI as TLM1, and will make a brief fuel stop at HNL. 

Shanghai Airlines' B-1262

Shanghai Airlines' second of two 737 deliveries this morning is B-1262 (c/n 63059, l/n 6847). This 737-89P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSH9763, and will overnight at HNL.

Shanghai Airlines' B-1260

Shanghai Airlines' first of two 737 deliveries this morning is B-1260 (c/ 61628, l/n 6785). This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSH9761, and will overnight at HNL.

China Eastern Airlines' B-1253

China Eastern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1253 (c/n 63055, l/n 6745) today. This 737-89P BBJ2 is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES299, and will overnight at HNL.

Kunming Airlines' B-1229

Kunming Airlines is taking delivery of B-1229 (c/n 61707, l/n 6773) today. This 737-7LY is making its delivery flight from BFI as KNA1229, and will overnight at HNL. Kunming is one of the few Chinese airlines to still have new-build -700s on order.

Hebei Airlines' B-1366

Hebei Airlines is taking delivery of B-1366 (c/n 42977, l/n 6752) today. This 737-8LW is making its delivery flight from BFI as HBH1366, and will overnight at HNL.

Hainan Airlines' B-1215

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-1215 (c/n 44399, l/n 6853) today. This 737-84P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CHH1215, and will overnight at HNL.

China Eastern Airlines' B-1235

China Eastern Airlines is taking delivery of B-1235 (c/n 63057, l/n 6788) this morning. This 737-89P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CES9001, and will overnight at HNL.

Shanghai Airlines' B-1259

Shanghai Airlines is taking delivery of B-1259 (c/n 61627, l/n 6740) this morning. This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as CSH9761, and will overnight at HNL.

Southwest Receives Permission For Hawai‘i Service

Southwest Airlines was granted approval from both the State of Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to start service between the west coast and Hawai‘i. The airline still needs FAA approval and certification to perform ETOPS flights.

Further information in this KHON2 article.

Lucky Air's B-1209

The second of the two Lucky Air 737-84P deliveries today, is B-1209 (c/n 60174, l/n 6793). It's making its delivery flight from BFI as B1209, and will overnight at HNL.

Lucky Air's B-1208

Lucky Air is taking delivery of two 737-84Ps today. The first of the two is B-1208 (c/n 60173, l/n 6769), which is making its delivery flight from BFI as B1208, and will overnight at HNL.

Air China's B-1225

Air China is taking delivery of B-1225 (c/n 60886, l/n 6794) today. This 737 MAX 8 is making its delivery flight from BFI as CCA47, and will overnight at HNL.

ConAir's C-GVFK

ConAir's RJ85 firebomber, C-GVFK (msn E2268), has made a stop at HNL this evening, as it returns to Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada from it summer firefighting assignment in Australia.

N315ST

N315ST (c/n 22611, l/n 75), a 757-225F, is ferrying from GYR [Goodyear, AZ] to CHC [Christchurch, New Zealand], and is making a stop at HNL. It will also make a stop at APW [Apia, Sāmoa]. It will become VH-PQA for Pacific Air Express [PAQ], a new cargo airline in Australia.

22611 was originally purchased by GATX, and leased to Eastern Air Lines in December 1985 as N522EA. In October 1991, it was leased to Air 2000 as G-OOOW. In September 2002, it was leased to Air Atlanta Icelandic as TF-ARE. It was subleased to Excel Airways from April 2003 to November 2005, then from March 2006 to December 2006 as G-VKNC. 22611 was sold to Wells Fargo Bank Northwest as N315ST in December 2006, and converted to a freighter. In May 2007, it was leased to Varig LOG as PR-LGI, until June 2009. In October 2011, it was leased to DHL International as A9C-DHD, until June 2017.

10 Tanker Air Carrier's N522AX Return to Base

After another Australian fire season, N522AX (c/n 48315, l/n 436) is returning to home base in Albuquerque, New Mexico. "912" passed through in late October last year.

Shandong Airlines' B-1360

Shandong Airlines is taking delivery of B-1360 (c/n 63769, l/n 6840) today. This 737-85N is making its delivery flight from BFI as CDG1360, and will overnight at HNL.

2-MSJJ

2-MSJJ (c/n 40152, l/n 4685), a former Malaysia Airlines 737-8H6, is ferrying from KUL to MZJ (via GUM and HNL). It was delivered to Malaysia Airlines in November 2013 as 9M-MSJ; and withdrawn from service in September 2017.

Air Canada To Launch 737 MAX8 Service

Air Canada announced today that they be launching 737 MAX8 service between Western Canada and Hawai‘i later this year. The airline announced that it will also launch thrice-weekly service between Vancouver, British Columbia [YVR] and Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i [LIH] beginning on December 15, 2018 to April 27, 2019. Other 737 MAX8 flights include YVR-HNL and YVR-OGG, that will go twice daily in winter months; and YVR-KOA (seasonal). Air Canada will also launch four-times weekly service between Calgary, Alberta [YYR] and Kahului, Maui [OGG].

With the launch of the Air Canada 737 MAX 8 service, it will replace the Air Canada Rouge 737-300ER flights.

Further information in this Air Canada press release.

Royal Canadian Air Force's 15001

The Royal Canadian Air Force's CC-150 Polaris 15001(msn 446, f/n 01) has made a stop at HNL. This is the only Polaris in the RCAF fleet that has a VIP interior, and is usually the transport for their prime minister.

446 was originally delivered to Wardair Canada [WD/WDA] in February 1988 as C-GBWD "C.C. 'Carl' Agar" (f/n 806). In January 1990, it was transferred to the Canadian International Airlines fleet, when they acquired Wardair. In 1993, this A310 was purchased by the Royal Canadian Air Force, registered as 15001, and had the cabin configured for a VIP transport. In 2013, 15001 was painted in the present livery, and part of "O Canada" ('True North strong and free') is below the cockpit windows English and French.

Hawaiian To Order 10 787-9s

Boeing and Hawaiian Airlines announced this morning that the Honolulu-based carrier has signed a Letter of Intent to order ten 787-9 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional ten aircraft. Delivery of the first Dreamliner is expected to be in the first quarter of 2021.

Further information in this Hawaiian Airlines press release, and this Boeing Media Room press release.

Beijing Airlines' B-3999

Beijing Airlines' 737-79L BBJ, B-3999 (c/n 41090, l/n 3636), is making a stop at HNL today. The charter flight arrived from Tianjin, China (TSN) as BJN099.


03.04.18 Update
B-3999 departed for Long Beach, CA [LGB] this morning.

Hainan Airlines' B-1213

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-1213 (c/n 44398, l/n 6827) today. This 737-84P is making its delivery flight from BFI as CHH1213, and will overnight at HNL.

Aloha Airlines' N809AL

Our March edition of "HNL RareBirds Classic" recognizes the 10th anniversary of the closure of Aloha Airlines, with this photo of N809AL "Keeaumoku" (c/n 21720, l/n 552) taken in June 1990, as I walked to board another Aloha 737-397. This 737-2Q9/Adv is seen above waiting to taxi out for departure.

Sadly, Aloha Airlines was shutdown on 31 March 2008, as it was unable to secure further financing to keep operating, after 61 years of service.

21720 was originally delivered to Air Florida, under lease from the ITEL Corporation, in January 1979 as N37AF, and flew with the airline until September 1984. During its time with Air Florida, N37AF was subleased to Transavia for two five-months stints (May-October 1981 and May-October 1982). In September 1984, it was sold to POLA, and leased to AirCal as N458AC. When American Airlines acquired AirCal, the latter's fleet was transferred over, and wore hybrid liveries. N458AC was also subleased to the second incarnation of Braniff Airways in February 1988. In May 1990, 21720 was sub-subleased to Aloha Airlines as N809AL. In May 1997, it was acquired by ACG, and the lease continued with Aloha Airlines. It was also painted in the airline's final livery, and flew with the airline until March 2003, where it was placed into storage at GYR. In June 2005, this 737-2Q9/Adv was scrapped.