UK-based newcomer prepares for debut with iconic superjumbo, in partnership with Portugal’s Hi Fly
Global Airlines, the UK-based startup committed to reviving the glory of the Airbus A380, has confirmed the launch of its first transatlantic flights this May, connecting Manchester and Glasgow to New York’s JFK International Airport. The announcement marks a major milestone for the ambitious newcomer, which will be the only airline to operate an all-A380 fleet.
The inaugural service is set to take off on May 15 from Glasgow to JFK, with the return flight scheduled for May 19. A second route will launch from Manchester on May 21, returning May 25, and pre-sale registration for tickets has already opened, targeting aviation enthusiasts and premium travellers.
With three-class service on board and a focus on delivering a unique long-haul experience, Global Airlines aims to offer a distinctive product in a highly competitive market. The airline’s A380 fleet—currently composed of four aircraft—is being refurbished and maintained in partnership with Hi Fly, the Portuguese ACMI and charter specialist known for its expertise with the A380 type.
The first aircraft, registered 9H-GLOBL, recently arrived in Beja, Portugal, where Hi Fly is performing final testing and livery application at its dedicated A380 facility. A test flight is scheduled for March 31, although subject to weather and operational conditions.
Reviving the Superjumbo Era
Founded by James Asquith, entrepreneur and founder of Holiday Swap, Global Airlines is embracing the double-decker jet that many airlines have retired. In 2023, the company became the first new A380 operator in nearly a decade, acquiring its initial aircraft from China Southern. Since then, it has rapidly expanded its fleet and infrastructure with support from Hi Fly Malta and maintenance partners including EFW and JETMS.
“Our A380s are at the heart of our vision to make flying a joy again,” said Richard Stephenson, Global’s Chief Commercial Officer and a former UK Civil Aviation Authority director. “These inaugural flights will showcase what the future of air travel can look like—comfortable, spacious, and memorable.”
Strategic Focus on Transatlantic Routes
The launch routes from Scotland and Northern England to New York reflect Global Airlines’ strategy to tap underserved long-haul markets outside London while offering a premium alternative to legacy carriers. Future expansion is expected to include Los Angeles, with long-term ambitions to connect key global hubs.
For aviation professionals and stakeholders in the GCC and broader Middle East, Global Airlines’ model offers insights into the evolving landscape of luxury and nostalgia-driven aviation experiences. With Dubai and Doha having been major hubs for the A380 during its prime, the aircraft’s resurgence through Global’s efforts is seen by many in the region as a testament to the aircraft’s enduring passenger appeal.
Looking Ahead
With heavy maintenance, certification processes, and pre-sales already underway, Global Airlines is now focused on ensuring operational readiness and regulatory approval ahead of its May launch. The partnership with Hi Fly—well respected in the Middle East and known for supporting Hajj and Umrah operations—is expected to bring additional credibility and technical assurance to the startup’s inaugural season.
As Global Airlines gears up for takeoff, its bold move to reintroduce the A380 in a post-pandemic market will be closely watched by industry observers, especially in the Gulf, where superjumbo aircraft have long been icons of luxury and long-haul success.
Photo: Global Airlines
Global Airlines Story: From Startup Dream to A380 Reality
2019
- July 13 – Global Airlines founded by James Asquith, also known as the founder of the travel app Holiday Swap.
2021
- Global Airlines listed its formal founding year on its official website.
2022
- November – China Southern Airlines retires its Airbus A380 fleet. One aircraft is sent to Mojave, California. This would later become Global Airlines’ first aircraft (MSN 120).
2023
- March 31 – James Asquith is briefly mentioned in news about a potential Virgin Orbit investor rescue.
- May 27/28 – Global Airlines makes headlines by acquiring its first Airbus A380, becoming the first new A380 operator in 8 years.
- June 1 – Richard Stephenson, former UK CAA Communications Director, is appointed Chief Commercial Officerand Board Director.
- July 5 – Global Airlines announces its intention to acquire three additional A380s, bringing its fleet to four aircraft.
- July 28 – Reports confirm plans for initial routes to New York (JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX).
- September – Global Airlines signs a partnership with Hi Fly (Portugal) for maintenance and development of the A380 fleet.
- October – The airline’s first A380 is sent to EFW Dresden (Germany) for heavy maintenance.
- November 8 – Global Airlines partners with JETMS for interior refurbishment and engineering support.
2024
- January 29 – Reports confirm that Global Airlines has delayed its launch to late 2024 due to regulatory and technical processes.
- February 2 – The airline confirms it has fully acquired A380 MSN 120, formerly of China Southern, now registered as 9H-GLOBL under Malta.
- February 7 – Global Airlines confirms the purchase from Jet Midwest and identifies MSN 120 as the priority for operation.
- September 23 – Global Airlines signs a fleet maintenance agreement with EFW (Elbe Flugzeugwerke).
- October 23 – Tarmac Aerosave announces scrapping of three ex-A380s for spare parts, not related to Global Airlines’ fleet.
- October – The airline’s first A380 (9H-GLOBL) arrives in Dresden for heavy maintenance.
- Late 2024 – Global Airlines’ second A380 is acquired, temporarily registered under Hi Fly Malta.
- December – 9H-GLOBL spotted inactive on Flightradar24 after maintenance; aircraft remains in preparation phase.
- December 31 – Global Airlines takes delivery of a second widebody jet, an A350 registered A6-EXB.
2025
- January 13 – Global Airlines completes first engine runs on 9H-GLOBL in Dresden.
- January 16 – 9H-GLOBL arrives in Beja, Portugal, at Hi Fly’s A380 testing and painting center.
- January 18 – Reports confirm Global Airlines has entered final maintenance phase in Portugal before entry into service.
- March 24 – Global Airlines announces first flights to New York JFK from Glasgow (May 15) and Manchester(May 21); pre-sale access opens for VIP clients.
- March 26 – The airline confirms ‘special flights’ will operate to JFK as its initial commercial offering.
- March 31 – A test flight is scheduled at Beja Airport (BA11) to validate final systems and operational readiness.
✈️ What’s Next?
- May 15, 2025 – First official flight from Glasgow to New York JFK.
- May 21, 2025 – Second flight from Manchester to JFK.
