QantasLink's C-GVWE

JD Aero is delivering Sunstate Airlines' next Dash8-402Q, C-GVWE (msn 4485), from YAM to BNE, with overnight stops at YYJ, HNL, and MAJ. This QantasLink-liveried Q400 is making an overnight stop at HNL tonight. It will be registered as VH-84O after it's received by Sunstate Airlines.

4485's History:

Jan 2015: Delivered to Westjet Encore as C-GVWE (f/n 418).

Mar 2024: Withdrawn from service, and stored at YYC.

Jly 2025: Ferried to YAM to prep for Sunstate Airlines.

Royal Air Force's ZM412

An Atlas C1 (A400M) from the Royal Air Force's No. 70 Squadron, No. 2 Group (Air Combat Support), based at BZZ, is making a stop at HIK. ZM412 (msn 042), flying as RRR4102, departed HLP on 17 October, with stops at DPS, XRH, CBR, and NAN.

24 October 2025 UPDATE

ZM412 departed HIK for SFO today. It will continue onto IAD and NHT, before returning to BZZ.

photo to follow ...

AEI Announces The 737-900ERSF

Aeronautical Engineers Inc (AEI) announced that they are embarking on a 737-900ER freighter conversion project. This will be similar to its current 737-800 freighter conversion program. AEI is aiming to have the 737-900ERSF certified by the FAA in 2029, and subsequent certifications with the EASA and CAAC to follow. The 737-900ERSF will be the largest 737 freighter variant. 500 of the variant were produced by Boeing.

Further details in this AEI press release.

VH-TQZ

VH-TQZ (msn 555), a white-tail Dash8-315 owned by the Avmax Group is being ferried from ASP to YYC, with stops at CNS, MAJ, ITO, and VNY. It departed ASP on 18 October, and is making its overnight stop at ITO tonight.

555's History:

Nov 2000: Delivered to Eastern Australia Airlines as VH-TQZ "Bundaberg" to operate for QantasLink.

___ 2018: Painted in the current livery.

Aug 2023: "Yes23" decals affixed for three months

Dec 2024: Withdrawn from service, and stored at TMW.

Sep 2025: Acquired by the Avmax Group, and ferried to ASP for storage.

Hawaiian Airlines Resumes HNL-AKL Service

Hawaiian Airlines announced that they are resuming seasonal service between HNL and AKL. The thrice weekly A330-243 flight will begin on 16 November, and run through the end of April 2026.

Further details in this Alaska Air Group press release.

SMBC To Acquire Air Lease Corporation

SMBC, the aircraft leasing arm of Sumitomo Bank, entered into an agreement to purchase Air Lease Corporation (ALC). The former has over 740 airliners in their portfolio, and the latter has a portfolio of over 160 airliners. The new company will be named Sumisho Air Lease, and will have a portfolio of over 1,100 airliners (including airframes on order).

Some of their airliners have stopped through Hawai‘i over the course of the years as new deliveries, and lease returns. Most recently were the two ex-Spirit Airlines A321-271NXs that ferried through HNL on their way to TPE for lease to China Airlines.

Further information in this Air Lease Corporation press release, and this Sumitomo Corporation press release.

FAA Clears Boeing 737 Production Uptick

Aviation Week reports that the Federal Aviation Administration has cleared Boeing to boost production of the 737MAX series from 38 per month to 42 per month. Boeing expects to do the increased production by the end of this year. The aircraft manufacturer seeks to bump up production to another five airframes every six months, pending safety and quality reviews.

Alliance Airlines' N247JB

Alliance Airlines is taking delivery of N247JB (msn 19000042). This ERJ-190AR is making its delivery flight, flown by Southern Cross International, from SJO to ROK, via SDM, OAK, KOA, MAJ, and BNE, as SXI2542. It's making its overnight stop at KOA tonight. It will receive its Australian registration, VH-A2L, after it's delivered. N247JB is seen above arriving at ROK on 22 October.

19000042's History

Aug 2006: Delivered to jetBlue as N247JB "Blue Is So You" (f/n 247) with the "Harlequin" tail livery, under lease from GECAS.

Oct 2015: Tail livery repainted in the "Tartan" design.

Apr 2020: Withdrawn from service, and stored at MZJ, returned to seven months later.

Nov 2021: Sold to AerCap, and the lease transferred.

Jun 2024: Withdrawn from service, and stored at MCN.

Apr 2025: Ferried to SJO for prep to Alliance Airlines.

N888TY

N888TY (c/n 29749, l/n 456), a 737-7AH BBJ owned by Ty Air, is making a stop at HNL from CRK. It arrived in the early morning hours, and is scheduled to continue onto SBA later in the day.

29749's History:

Jan 2000: Delivered to Westmount Investments as C6-TTB.

May 2003: Acquired by BB Five Inc as N134AR.

Mar 2005: Acquired by Ty Air as N888TY.

China Southern Airlines' B-20C9

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-20C9 (c/n 63283, l/n 7691) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to CAN, with overnight stops at HNL and GUM.

Washington Huskies Team Charter

The Washington Huskies are chartering a Hawaiian Airlines A330-243 for their road trip to play the Michigan Wolverines on Saturday. N391HA "Hokulei" (msn 1399) departed BFI for DTW as HAL738, and will remain there to bring the Huskies back.

18 October 2025 UPDATE 

The Huskies returned to BFI aboard N391HA as HAL739, following their 24-7 loss to the Wolverines.

Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors Team Charter

The Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors are chartering a Hawaiian Airlines A321-271N for their road trip to play the Colorado State Rams on Saturday. N218HA "Kou" (msn 8764) is flying the Rainbow Warriors to DEN as HAL714. This A321 will ferry to LAS from DEN as HAL9715 to re-enter service.

18 October 2025 UPDATE

N213HA "Lama" (msn 8237) ferried to DEN from LAS as HAL8716, and will bring home the victorious Rainbow Warriors after their 31-19 win over the Rams. N213HA flew from DEN to OAK as HAL717, then as HAL719 from OAK to HNL.

Skyline Stop At HNL Opens

The Skyline rail system opened its second phase today. This new section runs from Aloha Stadium to the Kalihi Transit Center. There is a stop at HNL, called Lelepaua, and is located near the International Parking Structure. Another stop is located outside of HNL, on Lagoon Drive, called Āhua. 

Further information can be found on the Skyline website.

Hainan Airlines' B-225T

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-225T (c/n 64319, l/n 9263) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to HAK, with overnight stops at HNL and GUM, as CHH2255.

N709AJ

N709AJ (msn 19000313), an ERJ-190LR owned by ICBC Financial Leasing, is making its ferry flight from TSN to OPF, with stops at GUM, MAJ, HNL, and ONT. It's making a brief fuel stop at HNL this evening.

19000313's History:

Sep 2009: Delivered to Tianjin Airlines as B-3158, under lease from ICBC Financial Leasing.

___ 2016: Painted in the current livery.

Mar 2020: Withdrawn from service, and stored at XIY.

Sep 2021: Returned to service.

Sep 2024: Withdrawn from service, and stored at TSN.

United Airlines To Switch To 737-8s For GUM Ops

United Airlines announced that they will be upgrading their 737-824s to 737-8s for their operations based at GUM. The airline will base ten 737-8s beginning in February 2026. United also announced that they will be upgrading their check-in lobby at GUM. Also, they will be making a seasonal flight between San and GUM, to allow better connectivity to HNL.

The "Island Hopper" service will be one of the routes with the 737-8s to/from HNL.

Further information in this United Airlines press release.

N744AR

Resort Air has added a second Falcon 50EX. N744AR (msn 316) arrived at HNL yesterday, from ENW [Kenowsha Regional Airport, Kenosha, WI], via SJC, as FGR744. It will supplement service with N313TT.

Virgin Australia's VH-VNF

Virgin Australia is returning VH-VNF "Ningaloo Reef" (msn 3332) to its lessor, AviLease. This A320-232 is making its ferry flight from PER to P08, with stops at OOL, APW, and KOA. It will make its overnight stop at KOA tonight. VH-VNF is scheduled to be parted out, then scrapped.

3332's History:

Dec 2007: Delivered to Tiger Airways Australia as VH-VNF, under lease from RBS.

Nov 2012: Sold to Pembroke, and the lease transferred.

Jly 2013: Airline rebrands as Tigerair Australia.

Nov 2019: Airline folded into Virgin Australia Regional.

Nov 2023: Acquired by AviLease, and the lease transferred.

Sep 2025: Withdrawn from service, and stored at PER.

FedEx Feeder C408 Flights To KOA

In addition to its multiple C408F weekday flights between HNL and LIH, Corporate Air is launching multiple weekday C408F service between HNL and KOA today.

Utah State Aggies' Team Charter

The Utah State Aggies football team is chartering a Sun Country Airlines 737-800 for their road trip from LGU to HNL, via OAK, to play the Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors. N821SY (c/n 39952, l/n 5217, f/n 821) is flying the Aggies as SCX8411. It will remain at HNL to take the team back to LGU following the game.

10 October 2025 UPDATE

The flights were scheduled to arrive yesterday, but was delayed to today. SCX8411 is due to arrive around 12:45HAST

12 October 2025 UPDATE 

The Aggies departed after midnight following their 44-26 loss. N821SY is returning to LGU, via OAK, as SCX8411.

N323CM

Cargo Aircraft Management is ferrying N323CM (c/n 29881, l/n 778) from ILN to SZB, with stops at HNL and GUM. This white-tail 767-316F will be leased to Raya Airways.

29881's History:

Dec 1999: Delivered to LAN Chile as CC-CZX.

Jan 2002: Acquired by ABSA Cargo as PR-ABB.

Jan 2006: Painted in the new livery.

Aug 2012: Airline renamed as TAM Cargo.

May 2016: Transferred to LATAM Cargo Brasil following the LAN/TAM merger.

Mar 2025: Acquired by Cargo Aircraft Management as N323CM.

Rainbow Helicopters' N488JB Emergency Landing

A Rainbow Helicopters Robinson R44 II, N488JB (msn 13379), made an emergency landing at Kapi‘olani Park during a tour flight this morning, after an undisclosed issue.

Further information in this Hawaii News Now article.

N4054

Coulson Aviation's N4054 (msn 382-4054) is making its ferry flight from BHE to TRM, with stops at AKL, PPG, and KOA. This C-130H is the last of the four that Coulson acquired from the Royal New Zealand Air Force. 

382-4054's History:

Apr 1965: Built as 64-15096, and delivered to the RNZAF's 40 Squadron as NZ7003.

Feb 2023: Withdrawn from service. 

Jan 2025: Officially retired from service.

Apr 2025: Sold to Coulson Aviation USA.

06 October 2025 UPDATE

N4054 departed for TRM this afternoon.

Hawaiian Airlines' UW Team Charter

With Alaska Airlines being a corporate sponsor of the University of Washington Huskies football team, they chartered a Hawaiian Airlines A330-243 for their road trip to BWI to play the Maryland Terapins. N373HA "Kūkalaniʻehu" (msn 1530) flew the Huskies from BFI today as HAL732. This A330-243 will remain at BWI to bring the team back.

04 October 2025 UPDATE

N373HA brought back the Huskies to BFI, following their 24-20 victory over the Terapins, as HAL733.

Aloha Air Cargo's N303KH To Storage

Northern Air Cargo ferried N303KH "Kukunaokalā" (c/n 25606, l/n 3123) from ANC to MZJ for onward storage on 29 September. This 737-319F made its ferry flight as NAC9303, as its being returned to its lessor, Automatic LLC. It was withdrawn from service on 07 August, and stored at ANC.

Viva's VQ-CAV

The Aviation Capital Group is delivering VQ-CAV (msn 5271) to lease to Viva. This A320-232 is flying from KUL to MTY, with fuel stops at GUM, HNL, and SBD.

5271's History:

Aug 2013: Delivered to Tigerair as 9V-TRL, under lease from GECAS.

Sep 2015: Sold to the Aviation Capital Group, and the lease transferred.

Jly 2017: Leased to Scoot following the merger with Tigerair as 9V-TRL "Hamachi".

May 2025: Withdrawn from service, and stored at KUL.

Corsair International's N7019K

Amazon Services LLC is ferrying N7019K (msn 1359) from MZJ to SHA, with stops at PHX, HNL, and GUM, for freighter conversion. This A330-343 is still wearing the Corsair International livery. It has yet to be assigned, or leased to an airline to operate it.

1359's History:

Nov 2012: Delivered to Corsair International as F-HSKY.

Feb 2021: Airline rebrands as Corsair, but the titles still include "International".

Mar 2025: Withdrawn from service, and stored at ORY.

Jly 2025: Acquired by Amazon Services LLC, and ferried to MZJ for storage.

10.05.25 UPDATE

Skyliners.de reports are that Hawaiian Airlines will be the recipient of this A330-343 after freighter conversion.

All Nippon Airways' JA990A

All Nippon Airways is taking delivery of JA990A (c/n 67004, l/n 1248) today. This 787-10 is making its delivery flight from PAE to HND, with an overnight stop at HNL, as ANA9399. It was ferried from CHS to PAE as BOE307 on 28 September.

Hawai‘i Air National Guard's 93-2042

This quarter's edition of "HNL RareBirds "Classic" features 93-2042 (msn 382-5371) of the Hawai‘i Air National Guard's 204th Airlift Squadron / 154th Wing. This Lockheed C-130H Hercules was photographed as it departed from Runway 8R in 2004.

93-2042's History:

___ 1994: Delivered to the 204th Airlift Squadron with the tail code HH.

Sep 2005: Re-assigned to the 169th Airlift Squadron, 182nd Airlift Wing, Illinois Air National Guard based at PIA [General Downing Field, Peoria International Airport, Peoria, IL]; and is still in service.

The C-130Hs of the 204th AS were replaced by Boeing C-17A Globemaster IIIs in 2006.

Virgin Australia's VH-8VC

Virgin Australia is taking delivery of VH-8VC "Torquay Beach" (c/n 67036, l/n 9295). This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from MLB to BNE, with overnight stops at ONT and KOA, as VOZ9947. VH-8VC is making its ONT-KOA segment today.

Boeing And China Close To Large Order

CH-Aviation reports that Boeing and the Chinese government are close to closing a deal that would be an order of 500 airliners. The deal has not been finalized, but would be a big boost for Boeing.

N907WS Sold To PrismJet

CH-Aviation's Business Jet News reports that N907WS (msn 9176), the HNL-based Bombardier BD-700-1A11 Global 5000, owned by N907WS Aviation LLC [Honolulu, HI], and operated by Pinnacle Aviation Charter, was sold to PrismJet.

Virgin Australia's VH-VUJ

Virgin Australia is returning VH-VUJ "Rosebud Beach" (c/n 34443, l/n 2056) to its lessor, Aviation Capital Group. This 737-8FE is making its ferry flight from BNE to P08, with overnight stops at NAN and HNL, as VOZ9946.

VH-VUJ had been through HNL twice during the pandemic, as it was returned to its lessor, then re-leased, and returned Down Under. 

Xiamen Air's B-227A

Xiamen Air is taking delivery of B-227A (c/n 43845, l/n 8194) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to XMN, with overnight stops at HNL and GUM, as CXA800. This is the last of the Xiamen Air 737-8 holdovers from the grounding and pandemic, and the airlines' third to deliver this month.

Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors Team Charter

The Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors are chartering a Hawaiian Airlines A321-271N for their road trip to play against the Air Force Academy Falcons on Saturday. N213HA "Lama" (msn 8237, f/n 213) is flying the team to COS as HAL708, and will re-position to PDX as HAL9709.

27 September 2025 UPDATE 

N212HA "Wiliwili" (msn 8219) repositioned from PDX to COS as HAL8710. This A321-271N is flying the victorious Rainbow Warriors back home as HAL711, with a stop at OAK. The OAK-HNL leg will be flown as HAL713.

Royal Australian Air Force's A47-013

The Royal Australian Air Force is taking delivery of A47-013 (c/n 67451, l/n 9614) today. This P-8A, flying as POSIDN1, is making its delivery flight from BFI to YPED [RAAF Base Edinburgh, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia], with overnight stops at HIK and NAN. It will be  assigned to 11 Squadron, 92 Wing.

5,000,000 Views!

At some point today, we broke the 5,000,000 page and post views mark! Mahalo to all of the contributors, and all of our readers who have made this milestone possible! You are all very much appreciated!

Onward to 6,000,000!

Shenzhen Airlines' B-20DP

Shenzhen Airlines is taking delivery of B-20DP (c/n 61157, l/n 7798) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to SZX as CSZ20DP, with overnight stops at HNL and GUM.

China Southern Airlines' N253BE

Boeing is ferrying China Southern Airlines' N253BE (c/n 65250, l/n 7875) from BFI to HSN for cabin completion today. Flying as BOE719, this 737-8 will make overnight stops at KOA and GUM.

Fresno State Bulldogs' Team Charter

The Fresno State Bulldogs football team is chartering an Omni Air International 767-200ER for their road game against the Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors on Saturday. N207AX "Kiani" (c/n 30438, l/n 845), a 767-224ER, is flying the Bulldogs from FAT to HNL as OAE3161. The team is scheduled to return to FAT following the game.

20 September 2025 UPDATE

The Bulldogs will return to FAT tonight aboard N207AX, as OAE3161, following their 23-21 win.

Viva's VQ-CAW

Aviation Capital Group is flying VQ-CAW (msn 5697) from KUL to MTY, via GUM, HNL, and SBD. This A320-232 will be delivered to, and leased to Viva. It will be making a short fuel stop at HNL. This is the second former Scoot A320 to be leased Viva.

5697's History:

Jly 2013: Delivered to Tigerair as 9V-TRK, under lease from GECAS.

Sep 2015: Sold to Aviation Capital Group, and the lease transferred.

Jly 2017: Leased to Scoot following the merger with Tigerair as 9V-TRK "Scooting Star".

Oct 2020: Stored at SIN during the pandemic.

Jun 2022: Returned to service.

Apr 2025: Withdrawn from service, and stored at KUL.

Sep 2025: Returned to ACG, and registered as VQ-CAW.

All Nippon Airways' JA381A Collision With Container

All Nippon Airways' A380-841, JA381A "Lani" (msn 262), collided with a runaway cargo container as it taxied for departure to NRT this afternoon as ANA181. Eye witness reports say that the cargo container and trailer belonged to Federal Express, and the damage to the A380 was on the starboard wing. Since none of the 498 aboard suffered any injuries, the NTSB will not get involved.

JA381A continued to taxi on Taxiway A to cross Runway 8L to Taxiway B to return to Gate C9. The A380 was towed to the ‘Ewa Ramp this afternoon for evaluation and repairs.

This post will be updated as more information and reports become available.

16 September 2025 UPDATE

Another eyewitness report stated that the number 4 engine made contact with the rogue container. In the above photo, it appears that the number 4 engine appears to be angled up a bit.

No reports have been listed on the FAA Safety website, nor the Aviation Safety Network nor the Aviation Herald.

17 September 2025 UPDATE

An article regarding the incident appeared on the AviationWire.jp website. It states that the container that struck the A380 was an ANA container, but based upon the photos I have seen following the incident, it was a FedEx container that got loose.

20 September 2025 UPDATE

The Aviation Safety Network has an incident report on their website.

29 September 2025 UPDATE

Following repair completion, JA381A returned to NRT as ANA9401 today.

01 October 2025 UPDATE 

JA381A returned to service today as ANA182.

Aeronautica Militare's MM62226

A KC-767A from the Aeronautica Militare's (Italian Air Force) 8º Gruppo is making a stop at HNL. MM62226 (c/n 33686, l/n 912, f/n 14-01), wearing the unit's 100th anniversary tail livery arrived earlier today from LAS as IAM1441. MM62226 is the first KC-767A ever produced by Boeing.

Royal Canadian Air Force's 140117

A CP-140 from the Royal Canadian Air Force's 407 Maritime Patrol Squadron / 19 Wing, is making a stop at HNL. 140117 (msn 5723) arrived from YQQ earlier today.

Air China's N247BE

Boeing is ferrying Air China's N247BE (c/n 60923, l/n 7813) from BFI to HSN today, with overnight stops at KOA then GUM. Flying as BOE276, this 737-8 will undergo cabin completion at HSN, and will revert to its Chinese registration, B-20DJ upon delivery. This was Air China's last 737-8 that was stored as part of the grounding and pandemic.

Air Niugini's P2-PGA

Air Niugini is taking delivery of their first A220-300, P2-PGA (msn 55388). It's making its delivery flight from YMX to POM, via HNL and NAN, as ANG50. Its HNL stop will be a brief fuel stop. P2-PGA was painted in a special livery commemorating Papua New Guinea's 50 anniversary of independence. This is the first of three A220-300s that are being leased from Azorra.

Virgin Australia's VH-8VB

Virgin Australia is taking delivery of VH-8VB "Tamar River" (c/n 67035, l/n 9284) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from MLB to BNE, with overnight stops at ONT and KOA, as VOZ9947. It's making its stop at KOA today.

Republic of Singapore Air Force Orders Four P-8As

The Republic of Singapore Air Force confirmed that they have placed an order for four P-8A Poseidons with Boeing. The P-8As will replace the five aging Fokker F50 Enforcer II MPAs.

Further information in this TWZ article.

VP-CTT

Phenix Jet's 737-7ZH BBJ, VP-CTT (c/n 38751, l/n 3796), is making a stop at HNL from LAX as CPJ88. This is VP-CTT's first stop at HNL for 2025.

13 September 2025 UPDATE

VP-CTT will continue onto NRT today.

Hawaiian Airlines' New CEO

The Alaska Air Group announced this morning that a new CEO will replace current CEO Joe Sprague, as he announced his retirement. Diana Birkett Rakow will assume command of Hawaiian Airlines on 29 October.

Further details in this Alaska Air Group press release.

Xiamen Air's N231BE

Boeing is ferrying Xiamen Air's N231BE (c/n 43847, l/n 8248) from BFI to HSN today, as BOE391. This grey-tail 737-8 is making overnight stops at KOA and GUM.

Two Hawaiian Airlines Airliners In Ground Collision

According to eyewitness reports, a Hawaiian Airlines A330-243, N390HA "Namahoe" (msn 1389) was under tow when its port side winglet clipped the a corner of the starboard elevator of 717-22A, N480HA "Pueo" (c/n 55125, l/n 5070) this afternoon.

N480HA had just emerged from a C-check, and was parked near the hangar. N390HA was also involved in an uncontrolled collision with a jet bridge several days ago, when the chocks were removed while the parking brakes were off.

China Southern Airlines' B-20D6

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-20D6 (c/n 65258, l/n 7715) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to CAN, with overnight stops at HNL and GUM.

HDOT-A Hosts JRF Master Plan Meeting

The Airports Division of the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT-A) and aviation consultant firm Ricondo, hosted an open forum style meeting this evening at the Honol‘uli‘uli Middle School Cafeteria to give the public an introductory look at the master plan for the Kalaeloa Airport (JRF). People from HDOT-A and Ricondo were on-hand to answer questions from the public. The master plan is schedule to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2027.

All three runways will need to undergo shoulder improvements, similar to what HNL went through. Runway 11/29 is temporarily closed due to the quality of the asphalt.

Million Air is undergoing the permitting process for construction of their facility that they proposed for their FBO services.

One of the issues that are being worked on is the aircraft noise issue that affects the surrounding areas of Kapolei and ‘Ewa Beach. Another community concern is the increased use of JRF, though the airport is under-utilized, and considered as a reliever airport by the FAA.

We learned that the land west of the Million Air fuel farm, that is occupied by a trucking company and other tenants, as well as the area south of Runway 11/29 are under the control of the Department of Hawaiian Homelands.

Further information can be found at the Kalaeloa Airport Master Plan website.

Hawaiian Airlines Aviation Technician Development Program

Hawaiian Airlines and Honolulu Community College launched their aviation technician development program today. This program is an upgrade to a program that both entities began in 2016.

Further information in this Hawaiian Airlines press release.

Aloha Air Cargo's N440KH

Aloha Air Cargo is taking delivery of N440KH (c/n 28889, l/n 3000). This 737-490F, under lease from Automatic LLC, is making its delivery flight from OPF to HNL, via OAK, as AAH9440.

28889's History:

Feb 1998: Delivered to Alaska Airlines as N794AS.

Dec 2017: Delivered to Flair Airlines as C-FLHE.

Aug 2020: Acquired by Automatic LLC as N889AU, and converted to a freighter.

Jan 2021: Leased to Poste Air Cargo as EI-GUB.

Jly 2025: Returned to lessor, and ferried to DHN, then OPF, for prep for Aloha Air Cargo.

‘Ohana by Hawaiian's N806HC

N806HC "Kili‘o‘opu" (msn 594), ‘Ohana by Hawaiian's ATR42-500 that was ferried to COE [Pappy Boyington Field, Coeur D'Alene Airport, Coeur D'Alene, ID] following the shutdown of the Hawaiian Airlines' subsidiary, was recently photographed at COE in a state of being parted out (top photo). The above photo shows N806HC in 2018, on the ‘Ohana by Hawaiian ramp.

Here are the fates of the rest of the ʻOhana by Hawaiian fleet:

N801HC "Kaiāulu": Scrapped at HNL in Aug 2021

N804HC "Holo Kaomi": Sold to NTE Aviation in Jun 2023 for parts

N805HC "Hikipua": Sold to Rise Air, and registered as C-GRYI in Feb 2023

N807HC "Paʻalā": Sold to Wasaya Airlines as C-GWRQ "In The Spirit of Jerry Mamakwa" in Jly 2022

N810HC "Alaʻoli": Sold to Wasaya Airlines as C-GWRD in May 2022

N811HC "Moaʻe Lehua": Sold to Fleet International Airlines as HA-KAY in Mar 2024.

All except N801HC were ferried to the Empire Airlines base at COE.

N313TT

Resort Air has leased a Falcon 50EX, N313TT (msn 297), from Top Air Texas, to replace their Cessna C550, N53DD. N313TT arrived from VNY yesterday. It will be flown as FGR313 with Resort Air.

C-FHHD

The Avmax Group is ferrying C-FHHD (msn 578), a Dash8-315 Q300, from ASP to YYC, via CNS, MAJ, HNL, and ACV. It departed ASP on 04 September, and will make its overnight stop at HNL tonight.

578's History:

Jan 2002: Delivered to Sunstate Airlines was VH-SBJ to operate for QantasLink.

May 2009: Acquired by Eastern Australia Airlines to operate for QantasLink.

Aug 2009: Leased to Cobham Aviation to operate for National Jet Systems.

Jly 2012: Returned to Eastern Australia Airlines to operate for QantasLink.

__ 2017: Painted in the current QantasLink livery, and named "Griffith".

Jun 2025: Withdrawn from service, and stored at ASP.

24 November 2025 UPDATE 

C-FHHD will be leased Pivot Airlines [Canada].

Fuerza Aerea Colombiana FAC-001

FAC-0001 (c/n 29272, l/n 323), the Fuerza Aerea Colombiana's 737-74V BBJ, is making a fuel stop at HIK as it returns to BOG from KIX. It will continue onto CUN from HIK.

Xiamen Air's B-20DY

Xiamen Air is taking delivery of B-20DY (c/n 64681, l/n 7948) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to XMN, with overnight stops at HNL and GUM, as CXA800.

Hawaiian Airlines To Adjust 787 Order

Hawaiian Airlines, and the Alaska Air Group, has stated that five of the remaining 787-9s on order with Boeing, will be converted to the 787-10 variant.

Further information in this CH-Aviation article, and this Reuters article.

Virgin Australia's VH-E2A

Virgin Australia is taking delivery of its first E190-E2, VH-E2A "Coral Bay" (msn 19020185). It's making its delivery flight from SJK [San Jose dos Campos Regional Airport, SaoPaulo, Brazil) to PER, via CUR, BRO, ONT, KOA, NAN, and CBR, as VOZ9943. This E190-E2, operated by Virgin Australia Regional, is the 1,900th E-Jet built, and has a decal on VH-E2A noting the milestone. It's making it's overnight stop at KOA tonight.

Federal Express Launches 757 Inter-island Flights

As we have reported since this past July, three Federal Express 757-200Fs have been in the islands. One at HNL, another at OGG, and another at ITO undergoing ground training. From today, FedEx is launching Monday-to-Friday inter-island flights out of HNL to OGG, and to ITO.

HNL-ITO: FDX1005 and FDX 1007 // ITO-HNL: FDX1006 and FDX1008

HNL-OGG: FDX1001 and FDX1003 // OGG-HNL: FDX1002 and FDX1004

In a related note, the Corporate Air-operated C408Fs have been flying exclusively between HNL and LIH, while their C208s have been serving the smaller airports like JHM, MKK and LNY.

Maui Police Department's N468WA

The Maui Police Department MBB-BK 117-B2, N468WA, flew MPD Chief John Pelletier from OGG to the grounds of the Valley of the Temples Cemetery for the memorial service for fallen MPD officer Suzanne O today. The helicopter, operated by Windward Aviation, landed shortly before the noon private service, and returned to OGG a few hours later.

Optimum Air Launches Air Ambulance Service

KHON reports that Las Vegas-based Optimum Air launched its PC-12 air ambulance service at HNL today. The aircraft is outfitted to take one patient and up to four medical personnel and equipment, with two pilots. Their flights will cover all islands. N444FT (msn 322) arrived at HNL on 21 July 2025, and has been test flying since 01 August. This PC-12/45 is owned by On The Horizon Aviation LLC (Tampa, FL), and operated for Optimum Air by Air Fuga.

Optimum Air joins Hawai‘i Life Flight as competing air ambulance service in the islands.

Aero To Launch Seasonal VNY-OGG Service

Ch-Aviation's Business Jets news reports that San Francisco-based Aero announced that they will be starting seasonal G-IV weekly service between VNY and OGG. This schedule private jet charter service is scheduled to begin on 22 November 2025, and will run to 04 April 2026. The G-IV will arrive on Saturdays and depart on Sundays. According to Aero's website, the flight is tied in with the Four Season Resort Maui at Wailea.

All Nippon Airways' JA986A

All Nippon Airways is taking delivery of JA986A (c/n 67000, l/n 1242). This 787-10, flying as ANA9397, is making its delivery flight from CHS to HND, via VCV and HNL. It will make its overnight stop at HNL tonight.

This 787 was involved in a ground collision with a Breeze Airways A220-300, N247BZ (msn 55341), at CHS. JA986A's left wingtip sliced through the tail of N247BZ as the former taxied for departure on its delivery flight on 18 July 2025. After repairs, it started its delivery flight journey on 20 August, with a stop at VCV.

QantasLink's C-GWEG

JD Aero is delivering C-GWEG (msn 4488) for Sunstate Airlines. This QantasLink-liveried Dash8-Q402 is flying from YAM to BNE, via YYJ, KOA, and MAJ; and is making its overnight stop at KOA tonight. It will be registered as VH-84P after delivery.

4488's History:

Mar 2015: delivered to Westjet Encore as C-GWEG (f/n 420).

Apr 2024: Withdrawn from service, and stored at YYC, then YAM.

May 2025: Prepped for Sunstate Airlines.

T7-7777

T7-7777 (msn 3363), an A318-112 ACJ Elite, owned by TAG Aviation San Martino, is making a stop at HNL from IQN [Qingyuan Airport, Qingyuan, Gansu, China] as TAG20.

3363's History:

Jan 2009: Delivered to Comlux Malta as 9H-AFL.

Nov 2013: Acquired by the Minth Group as B-77777, operated by EVA Air.

Aug 2018: Acquired by K5-Aviation as D-APWG.

Apr 2021: Re-acquired by the Minth Group as B-77777, operated by EVA Air.

Jly 2023: Acquired by Tag Aviation San Martino as T7-7777.

Air China's B-20DH

Air China is taking delivery of their second 737-8 in three days. B-20DH (c/n 60922, l/n 7761) is making its delivery flight today from BFI to PEK, via HNL and GUM, as CCA84. It will overnight at HNL tonight.

LZ-DDD

LZ-DDD (msn 5662), an A320-232, is ferrying from KUL to MTY, via GUM and HNL. It's making a short fuel stop at HNL this evening. This A320 will be joining the Viva fleet, under lease from DAE Capital.

5662's History:

Jly 2013: Delivered to Tigerair Mandala as PK-RMV, under lease from GECAS.

Oct 2014: Lease transferred to Tigerair as 9V-TRX.

Jly 2017: Leased to Scoot after merging with Tigerair, as 9V-TRX.

Jun 2019: Painted in the full Scoot livery.

Nov 2021: Lease transferred to AerCap.

Oct 2022: Sold to DAE Capital, and the lease transferred.

Apr 2025: Withdrawn from service, and stored at KUL.

Aug 2025: Prepped for Viva, and re-registered as LZ-DDD for the ferry flight.

17 September 2025 UPDATE

This A320-232 is now registered as XA-VDP.

Aloha Air Cargo's N304KH Ferries To Alaska

Aloha Air Cargo is ferrying N304KH "Kōlea Nui" (c/n 28054, l/n 3016, f/n 304) from HNL to ANC to operate for Northern Air Cargo. This 737-3Q8F is making its ferry flight as NAC9304.

Final Stored 737MAX Leaves Storage at MWH

Air China's B-20DJ (c/n 60923, l/n 7813) is the last 737MAX series to leave the long-term storage from the grounding and pandemic. This 737-8 departed MWH for VCV on 12 August, and is flying to BFI today as BOE276. It has been re-registered as N247BE, as Boeing will ferry it to HSN.

Boeing created a "shadow rework factory" at MWH as a result of the grounding in March 2019, after the two accidents involving 737-8s. Coupled with the Corona Virus pandemic, the groundings extended to late 2020. China-bound 737-8s were grounded even longer due to Chinese re-certification delays. There are currently a dozen 737-8s destined for Chinese airlines that are part of the grounded group.

Further information in this CH-Aviation article.

Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors Team Charter

The Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors are making their first road-trip for the 2025 season. The team is chartering a Hawaiian Airlines A321-271N to fly to TUS for Saturday's game against the Arizona Wildcats. N230HA "Wauke" (msn 9547) is taking the team to TUS today as HAL702.

Photos from the send off at HNL on the Hawai‘i Athletics Instagram post.

Further information in this Hawaiian Airlines press release.

31 August 2025 UPDATE 

N209HA "‘Iliahi" (msn 8186) brought back the Rainbow Warriors following yesterday's 40-6 mauling by the Wildcats, as HAL705 (TUS-LAX) then HAL707 (LAX-HNL).

Northern Air Cargo's N403YK

Northern Air Cargo's 737-436F, N403YK (c/n 24582, l/n 2228), is being ferried from HNL to YLW [Kelowna International Airport, Kelowna, BC, Canada], via OAK as AAH9403. 

Air China's B-20DS

Air China is taking delivery of B-20DS (c/n 60826, l/n 7931) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to PEK, via HNL and GUM, as CCA80. It will make its overnight stop at HNL tonight.

FedEx's N772FX

Corporate Air's Hawai‘i operation is taking delivery of their fourth Cessna C408F SkyCourier. N772FX (msn 408-0033) made its delivery flight from VGT today, via SBA, as CPT48. This C408 was originally delivered to Corporate Air's FAR base in September 2024.

Korean Air Orders 103 Boeing Airliners

Boeing announced today that Korean Air has placed an order for 103 airliners. The order consists of: 50 737-10s, 8 777-8Fs, 20 777-9s, and 25 787-10s. Today's order is in addition to Korean Air's 50-plane order (20 777-9s and 20 787-10s, with an option for 10 more) placed this past March.

Further details in this Boeing press release.

Virgin Australia's VH-8VA

Virgin Australia is taking delivery of VH-8VA "Port Stephens" (c/n 67034, l/n 9250). This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from MLB to BNE, via ONT and KOA, as VOZ9947. It's making its ONT-KOA segment today, with an overnight stop. VH-8VA is the third 737-8 delivery to Virgin Australia this month.

Qantas Airways' VH-OQH

Qantas Airways is using an A380-842 for its service between MEL and HNL this morning. VH-OQH "Reginald Ansett" (msn 050) is making the flight as QFA105. Normally, this service is operated with an A330-200s. VH-OQH will depart for LAX, as QFA6001, following a brief fuel stop.

On 12 July 2025, his A380 was in

VH-OQH's History:

Jan 2011: Delivered to Qantas Airways.

Jly 2015: Painted in the "Go Wallabies" special livery for 17 months.

Jly 2020: Ferried to VCV for storage during the pandemic.

Jly 2022: Returned to service.

Oct 2023: Painted in the current livery.

Jly 2025: Involved in incident where an airbridge made contact with the No. 2 engine (12 Jly), and returned to service three days later.

Stanford Cardinal Team Charter

The Stanford Cardinal football team is chartering a United Airlines 757-300 for their "Week Zero" road game against the Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors on Saturday. N57863 (c/n 32587, l/n 980, f/n 0863), a 757-33N, is flying from SFO as UAL3797. The Cardinal will return to SFO on the 24th, as UAL3797. N57863 will re-enter service tomorrow morning.

32587's History:

Sep 2001: Delivered to American Trans Air as N553TZ (f/n 553), under lease from Boeing Capital.

Mar 2003: Airline rebrands as ATA Airlines.

Dec 2005: Leased to Continental Airlines as N57863 (f/n 863).

Oct 2010: Transferred to the United Airlines fleet after merging with Continental.

Jly 2022: Painted in the current livery.

24 August 2025 UPDATE

Following the walk-off field goal loss to the Rainbow Warriors, the Cardinal returned SFO as UAL3797. Another 757-33N, N77871 (c/n 33526, l/n 1032, f/n 0871), flew the team back this morning.

33526's History:

Jly 2003: Delivered to American Trans Air as N561TZ (f/n 561), under lease from Boeing Capital.

Apr 2008: Ferried to VCV following ATA's shut down.

Feb 2010: Leased to Continental Airlines as N77871 (f/n 871).

Oct 2010: Transferred to the United Airlines fleet after merging with Continental.

Feb 2025: Painted in the current livery.

Lynden Air Cargo's N406LC

Lynden Air Cargo's N406LC (msn 382-4676) is making an overnight stop at HIK tonight. This L-100-30, flying as LYC406, will continue onto ANC in the morning.

N334AL

Air Lease Corporation is ferrying the second of five A321-271NXs for China Airlines. N334AL (msn 12588), still in the Spirit Airlines livery, is flying from MLB to TPE, via SBD, HNL, MAJ, and GUM. It's making its overnight stop at HNL tonight. 

12588's History:

Aug 2025: Not taken up by Spirit Airlines as N747NK (f/n 6747), and delivered to Air Lease Corporation as N334AL at MLB.

12 September 2025 UPDATE

Registered in Taiwan as B-18135.

Virgin Australia's VH-8IK

Virgin Australia is taking delivery of VH-8IK "Hutt Lagoon" (c/n 65116, l/n 9240). This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from MLB to BNE, via ONT, KOA, and VLI, as VOZ9947. It will make its overnight stop at KOA tonight.

N553AL

Air Lease Corporation is ferrying N553AL (msn 12632) from MLB to TPE, via SBD, HNL, MAJ, and GUM. This A321-271NX was to be leased by Spirit Airlines as N748NK (f/n 6748), but not taken; and will now be leased to China Airlines. CH-Aviation reports that China Airlines will lease five A321-271NXs from Air Lease Corporation.

12632's History:

Aug 2025: Delivered to Air Lease Corporation, and ferried from BFM to MLB.

12 September 2025 UPDATE

Registered in Taiwan as B-18136.

China Southern Airlines' B-226L

China Southern Airlines is taking delivery of B-226L (c/n 65257, l/n 7795) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to CAN, via HNL and GUM, as CSN5279. Its overnight stop at HNL is tonight.

Alliance Airlines' N274JB

Southern Cross International is flying N274JB (msn 19000082) from MCN to ROK, with stops at OAK, KOA, MAJ, and BNE, as SXI2536. This ERJ-190AR is headed to join the Alliance Airlines' fleet, but not known if it has been painted in Alliance's livery. N247JB will overnight at KOA tonight. It will receive its Australian registration, VH-A2S, after it's re-painted. This ERJ-190 was photographed after it arrived at ROK.

19000082's History:

Jun 2007: Delivered to jetBlue as N274JB "Good, Better, Blue" (f/n 274) with the "Dots" tail livery, under lease from GECAS.

Nov 2014: Tail livery repainted in the "Tartan" design.

Nov 2021: Sold to AerCap, and the lease transferred.

Jan 2025: Ferried to MCN for storage.

Hainan Airlines' B-225X

Hainan Airlines is taking delivery of B-225X (c/n 66413, l/n 9215) today. This 737-8 is making its delivery flight from BFI to HAK, with overnight stops at HNL and GUM, as CHH2255.

Federal Express' N968FD

Federal Express is ferrying another 757-200F to HNL from OAK. N968FD "Wesley" (c/n 26274, l/n 676, f/n 968), a 757-28AF, arrived from OAK this morning as FDX9076.

26274's History:

Jun 1995: Delivered to Transaero as EI-CLU, under lease from ILFC.

Jan 1998: Re-registered as N751LF.

Feb 1999: Leased to Flying Colours as G-FLCH.

Mar 2000: Leased transferred to JMC Air, following the merger between Flying Colours and Caledonian Airways.

Mar 2003: Lease transferred to Thomas Cook Airlines, following the rebranding.

Apr 2013: Acquired by Federal Express, converted to a freighter, re-registered as N968FD, and named "Tatytem".

Aug 2024: Re-named "Wesley".

Hawaiian Airlines To End Three Routes

Citing under performance in three routes, Hawaiian Airlines announced today that FUK-HNL, BOS-HNL, and ICN-HNL are ending in November. FUK and BOS services ends on 19 November, and ICN service ends on 21 November. The A330-243s will be dispatched on other routes.

Further details in this Hawaiian Airlines press release.

HDOT Launches Apps For HNL and LIH

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation released smartphone apps for both HNL and LIH today. The apps include an interactive map, along with information for gates, baggage claims, and amenities.

Further information in this HDOT press release.