Fleet growth, new global routes, and Europe’s major airport upgrades shaping the future of travel
Welcome to The Boarding Pass Travel Blog, your go-to destination for the latest global travel and aviation stories. October 2025 has been a whirlwind month in the skies, from major fleet announcements and new flight routes to shifting border rules across Europe and progress in sustainable aviation.
Airlines are expanding, airports are reinventing themselves, and travellers everywhere are preparing for a new era of adventure. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a frequent flyer, or just dreaming of your next getaway, this is your ticket to what’s happening right now in the world of travel.
Arriving soon on The Boarding Pass Travel Blog
🛩️ Iconic Aircraft Series Launched. My new deep-dive into the aircraft that defined generations, from Concorde to Boom Overture.
✍️ Introducing VH. Our newest writer joins the crew, bringing fresh takes on destinations and aviation culture.
Before those articles land, strap in and enjoy the first class service, your captain is John Wozniak, and we'll be cruising at a cool 36,000 feet.
Global Aviation Update October 2025
The aviation industry is in full swing this October 2025. Airlines are doubling down on fleet expansion, new routes, and sustainability, while airports race to modernise terminals ahead of the busy 2026 season. Here’s what’s making headlines across the skies.
Major Fleet Orders and Aircraft Developments
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has doubled its commitment to the Airbus A350-900, ordering 30 more aircraft to bring its total to 60. This marks a decisive step from its short-haul model to long-haul global services, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. IndiGo’s CEO Pieter Elbers said the move reflects “our confidence in the future of Indian aviation” as the carrier sets its sights on becoming a leading global player by 2030.
Across the Atlantic, Boeing took an important leap forward. The FAA has eased restrictions, allowing production of the 737 MAX to increase to 42 aircraft per month. Boeing also regained partial certification authority for its 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner, a milestone in its gradual recovery after years of regulatory oversight. The long-delayed 737-7 variant is also back in test flights, signalling progress toward final approval.
Air Travel Network Expansion — New Routes Announced
Air Serbia will relaunch flights between Belgrade and Toronto in May 2026, restoring a route last flown 34 years ago.
Aer Lingus and Iberia continue expanding their transatlantic footprint using the fuel-efficient A321XLR, with Iberia’s Madrid–San Juan, Puerto Rico set to become the longest XLR flight at almost 10 hours.
American Airlines is also preparing its pilots for transatlantic A321XLR operations after a month of North Atlantic training flights between Philadelphia and Edinburgh.
In Europe and North Africa, easyJet announced its first African base in Marrakech by spring 2026, adding routes to Hamburg, Lille, Strasbourg, and Tangier.
British Airways will introduce a third daily Heathrow–Delhi service, reflecting deepening UK–India ties.
And Air Transat is extending its reach with new routes from Quebec City to Marseille and Ottawa to London Gatwick, all operated by the A321neo.
Airline Restructuring and Leadership Moves
Low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has secured bankruptcy court approval for a $475 million financing package and will drastically shrink its fleet by 100 aircraft to stabilise operations. The airline expects to return to profitability by 2027.
Virgin Atlantic confirmed that CEO Shai Weiss will step down at the end of 2025. His successor, Corneel Koster, brings 30 years of industry experience and has overseen the airline’s recovery and digital overhaul. Expect continued focus on sustainability and customer experience under his leadership.
U.S. Airline Performance — Profits at the Top
United and Delta Air Lines continue to dominate U.S. skies. United posted record Q3 profits ($2.78 per share), and Delta followed with $1.71. Both are benefitting from booming demand for premium travel, with Delta reporting that 43% of passenger revenue now comes from its premium cabins.
Southwest Airlines unveiled its first new cabin interior in 50 years, adding USB ports, Recaro seats, and overhead storage upgrades. It’s also scrapping its famous open-seating policy from January 2026, moving to assigned seats and the “WILMA” (window-middle-aisle) boarding system.
European Border Control Changes — The New EES Era
As I reported on this last week, the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) officially launched on 12 October 2025, transforming how non-EU travellers enter Schengen countries. Passports will no longer be stamped; instead, travellers register biometric data (facial and fingerprint scans) on their first visit.
Estonia became the first to implement the system fully, with other countries rolling out over six months. British travellers using Dover, Eurostar, or Eurotunnel will register before departure, a process expected to take around two minutes per person, though delays are likely during the initial phase. Deep Joy!
Sustainable Aviation Fuel — The Push Continues
A new PA Consulting survey found that 86% of industry leaders see Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as the key to decarbonisation, but progress remains uneven. Most airlines expect SAF to represent only 9% of fuel use by 2035. Airlines have a lot to do educate their passengers on the use of SAF. I'll be tracking this important topic in the coming months.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned of price inflation due to green-fuel mandates in Europe, urging governments to reform pricing frameworks. In the UK, all jet fuel must contain 2% SAF in 2025, rising to 10% by 2030.
Meanwhile, Exolum is constructing the UK’s first independent SAF blending facility, supported by a new government scheme guaranteeing fair producer pricing. China has also approved three new SAF exporters, promising a boost in supply for Europe.
Airport Infrastructure — Expansions Underway
Newcastle Airport has broken ground on a £60 million expansion, adding new lounges, self-check-in areas, and faster security screening. Completion is targeted for 2026.
Heathrow is preparing to name former BT Group CEO Philip Jansen as its next chairman, steering its £48 billion third-runway expansion plan, which has government support.
Leeds Bradford Airport also unveiled animations for its new terminal extension, with phase one due summer 2025.
Not all is smooth flying: Gatwick Airport faces legal challenges from anti-noise campaigners aiming to halt its second-runway project.
Air Travel Industry Challenges — Labour & Logistics
Lufthansa is negotiating with pilots over pensions while cabin crew dispute new staffing levels for its First Class cabins. Ryanair received its 200th Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 “Gamechanger”, while China Eastern confirmed flights to India will resume after a five-year pause.
Together, these stories reflect a global industry modernising fast, balancing innovation, sustainability, and economics as airlines rebuild after a turbulent decade.
Your Boarding Call
From IndiGo’s A350s to Europe’s digital borders, October 2025 proves travel never stops evolving.
Where will your next flight take you? Share your destination plans with us and catch up on our latest features at The Boarding Pass Travel Blog.