Despite higher interest rates, inflation and rising oil prices linked to the Middle East crisis, airlines with strong credit profiles continue to secure attractive aircraft financing. TUI and Air France report particularly competitive conditions for sale-and-leaseback transactions, supported by limited aircraft availability and relatively few high-quality airline credits seeking financing.

Thai Airways has suspended CEO Chai Eamsiri pending an investigation into its handling of severe Bangkok flooding that disrupted operations and affected the airline’s reputation. Director Sumrid Sumneing became acting CEO on 2 October. More than 220 flights were cancelled during the week ending 4 October, although Thai said it was ready to restore its full schedule from 3 October.

Air Astana will launch twice-weekly Almaty–Tokyo Narita flights from 30 November 2026, using Airbus A321LRs configured with 16 business and 150 economy seats. The service will operate under a codeshare with Japan Airlines, expanding Air Astana’s East Asian network and supporting Almaty’s role as a connecting hub between Japan, Central Asia and the Caucasus.