Global Airlines, the new all-A380 airline, has announced a multi-million euro partnership with global MRO specialist Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW) to carry out the base maintenance inspection for its first fully acquired aircraft, 9H-GLOBL. The A380 will soon fly to Dresden for necessary maintenance, including mandatory inspections and component replacements, before being repositioned in Europe for an interior overhaul. The airline aims to begin operations in 2025.
The aircraft, which flew from the Mojave Desert in California to Prestwick International Airport on May 1, is now progressing towards operational readiness. Extensive return-to-service work has already been completed, with Global Airlines and EFW working closely with Airbus on flight conditions and maintenance tasks as part of a comprehensive deal.
James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines, commented: “Joining forces with EFW is the next significant step in our quest to seeing our first A380 in the sky. 9H-GLOBL's journey back to the skies has taken yet another significant step forward, and I am excited to see our first aircraft fly to Dresden for this work to progress. We have overcome significant hurdles over the past 12 months and we are now very much advancing our proposition, partnerships, team and operational readiness and our partnership with EFW is the latest giant leap forward. I am looking forward to being in Dresden and seeing the work underway.”
Global Airlines is currently collaborating with Airbus and other partners to prepare 9H-GLOBL for its flight to Dresden in the coming weeks. After maintenance is completed, the aircraft will be repositioned within Europe for an extensive cabin refurbishment ahead of its first commercial flight in 2025.
Founded in 2023 and headquartered in London, Global Airlines, led by CEO James Asquith, has begun its fleet development programme with the acquisition of one A380, with more to follow. The airline aims to deliver an unparalleled customer experience inspired by the golden age of travel, using the A380 to provide the best way to fly.
