Global Airlines’ A380 Revival Takes Flight With Milestone Engine Tests
Global Airlines, the British start-up company that plans to revolutionize long-haul air travel long distances by aircraft, has progressed quite far. Its first Airbus A380 aircraft, with the registration number 9H-GLOBL, returned to heavy maintenance after being overhauled by Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW) in Dresden, Germany. The maintenance phase, which began in October 2024, involved comprehensive inspections and component replacements ensuring the aircraft is ready for the next preparation stage.
On January 16, 2025 the aircraft performed its first engine tests and departed Dresden Airport, a major achievement in its transition to revenue service. Based on the Global Airlines interview, the company appreciated EFW for its role in enhancing the readiness of its inaugural A380.
Final Adjustments in Portugal
After maintenance in Dresden, the aircraft will be taken to Beja in Portugal where it will undergo final enhancements and adjustments. This phase aims to the A380 will be ready for operation by 2025, as stipulated when it was designed to be in service.
Global Airlines has signed a deal with Portuguese airline Hi Fly, which will launch the aircraft on the airline’s first routes. This start-up aimed to have its aircraft fly across the Atlantic, linking Heathrow in London with JFK airport in New York and creating an entry into a saturated market.
Reviving A380 Operations
The A380 retired from operation in 2023 by China Southern Airlines is an opportunity for Global Airlines to explore the possibilities of double-decker planes. Manufacturer serial number(MSN) 120, the airframe was decommissioned and stored at the Mojave Air & Space Port, then transported to Glasgow Prestwick Airport in April 2024.
Maintenance activity for the A380 has bounced back at Global Airlines through a deal with EFW, which has signed new contracts with several operators, including Qantas. Such interest shows further that the A380 remains relevant for a specific market segment in the industry.
