Air China has placed a major Airbus order for 15 A350-900s, while subsidiary Shenzhen Airlines will acquire 40 A320neos, reinforcing the group's long-term fleet growth strategy. Deliveries are scheduled between 2029 and 2032 and will increase Air China's fleet capacity by 7.1% and Shenzhen Airlines' by 4.3%. The aircraft will support both network expansion and fleet renewal. The acquisition will be financed through cash, bank loans and other funding sources, further strengthening the group's substantial aircraft order backlog.

Aer Lingus has unveiled a major restructuring programme that will reduce flying capacity by 6% and could result in up to 500 job losses as it seeks to improve profitability. The airline aims to achieve a sustainable operating margin of 12-15% after reporting a first-quarter loss of €103 million and a 2025 operating margin of 11.1%, the weakest among IAG's main airlines. Network changes, including the removal of lower-yield routes, will begin in September 2026 and continue through the 2027 summer season, reducing the need for two Airbus A330s and four A320s. Despite the cost-cutting measures, Aer Lingus will continue investing in customer experience through Starlink connectivity and premium economy upgrades on its A330 fleet. The airline says the transformation is intended to strengthen its competitiveness within IAG while positioning it for long-term growth.

Jet fuel prices have risen sharply across Europe, Asia and North America following renewed US-Iran tensions, which have disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and heightened supply concerns. European jet fuel prices climbed to around $1,176 per tonne, their highest level since May, while Singapore and New York also recorded significant increases. Falling fuel inventories in Europe, stronger Russian demand and rising crude oil prices have added further pressure, with Brent crude increasing to $86.37 per barrel. The renewed volatility is expected to increase fuel costs for airlines worldwide.