Global Airlines UK Postpones Launch to Late 2024 Due to Partner and Supply Chain Delays

Global Airlines, a UK-based startup, has announced the delay of its launch to an unspecified date in the latter half of 2024. The airline attributes this postponement to partner-related delays and a series of supply chain challenges that have arisen. Initially, Global Airlines had planned to commence flights in the first half of the year.

In a statement, Global Airlines stated, “Our intention is to commence with charter flights later in 2024 with scheduled services from the UK following that. We expect to operate our first round of passenger services in the next 12 months. However, like many other aviation companies, we have encountered delays with our partners and multiple supply chain issues, which we continue to work around and find solutions to.”

Global Airlines has thus far acquired a single A380-800 aircraft, registered as 9H-MIP (msn 6), previously operated by Singapore Airlines and currently stored at Lourdes/Tarbes. While the carrier had previously claimed to secure an additional three A380-800s in mid-2023, no evidence of these acquisitions has been presented. The airline’s plans involve operating trans-Atlantic flights with the A380 aircraft configured in multiple classes.

A spokesperson for Global Airlines disclosed that significant changes have occurred since the startup was first announced, including alterations in its relationship with Hi Fly, which has provided Global with a different market approach. Addressing the delays, the spokesperson mentioned that Global, like many other operators, has faced challenges in securing slots for heavy maintenance, locating suitable hangar space, and recruiting manpower. However, the airline anticipates resolving these issues in the near future.

According to UK Companies House records, Global Airlines Limited is overseen by three directors: James Edward Asquith, Richard Mark Graham Stephenson, and Thomas Guy Stokey. The registered business address is situated in Berkeley Square, London. Notably, another entity owned by James Edward Asquith, Holiday Swapping Limited, holds 75% of the shares and voting rights in Global Airlines Limited.