This Week’s Plane News

Mr Plane Guy
Apr 19
4 min read

This Week’s Plane News

19 April 2026

By Mr Plane Guy, Travel Blogger, Flight Expert & Plane GEEK

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep this blog running (and fuels my habit of overpriced airport lattes). Thanks for your support!

Note: I’m not a financial advisor, just sharing my experience.

Welcome aboard this week’s Plane News Weekly, your Sunday fix of UK airline updates, aviation news, loyalty deals, and travel hacks.

This week, the industry feels under pressure. Routes are being cut, costs are rising, and airlines are quietly adjusting. The opportunities are still there, but you need to be sharper to find them.

This Week in My World

Hilton made me Diamond for the day during a recent stay one of those surprise upgrades that should feel like a win. On paper, it came with the usual perks: room upgrade, drinks, a bit of “VIP” treatment. In reality, it didn’t quite land like that. I’ll be breaking it down properly soon, but if you want the unfiltered version, my latest TikTok already tells the story.

Fuel Pressure Building Across Europe

The wider concern right now is fuel. Warnings suggest Europe could face jet fuel pressure within weeks if supply disruption continues, which would push fares higher and force airlines to tighten schedules. We’re already seeing early signs of that shift, and it’s likely to feed directly into summer pricing.

💳 Deal of the Week: 45,000 Avios Boost (Limited Time)

American Express has a limited-time boosted welcome offer on the Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card and through my referral, you can get 45,000 Membership Rewards points (normal offer is 40,000, which itself is amazing!) when you spend £5,000 in the first 6 months. If you're wondering what you can do with 40000 points, I flew business class with Qatar with mine.

That’s enough for serious “luxury for less” value. You’ll also get 4 free Priority Pass lounge visits per year, plus bonus points on travel spend.

⚠️ Important: I’m not a financial advisor, this is a credit product, so please do your own research and make sure it’s right for you before applying. Terms apply, 18+, subject to status.

👉 If you’re going to get this card anyway, using my link gets you more points than the standard public offer. Check your eligibility.

Boarding Announcements, New Routes & Airline Updates

Norse Atlantic Cuts Back Routes

Norse Atlantic Airways has dropped its Manchester–Bangkok route and appears to have pulled back from Los Angeles and Orlando, leaving New York JFK as its main focus from Gatwick. It’s a clear sign low-cost long-haul is under pressure as costs rise and demand softens. If you’re considering booking, make sure you understand the real cost beyond the headline fare, especially baggage. Read my Norse baggage guide and things I wish I’d known before flying Norse Atlantic before you book.

Aer Lingus Cancels Hundreds of Flights

Aer Lingus is reportedly cancelling more than 500 flights due to mandatory aircraft maintenance and schedule adjustments. Routes across Europe, the UK, and parts of the US network are affected, with passengers being rebooked where possible. It’s another reminder that airline schedules are still more fragile than they look on the surface.

M&S x Virgin Red Travel Hack

Marks & Spencer has partnered with Virgin Red, and it’s one of the easiest ways to earn travel rewards from everyday spending right now. Shopping via the Virgin portal while stacking Sparks offers and card rewards can quietly build a meaningful points balance. It’s not flashy, but it’s effective. Full breakdown here: M&S x Virgin Red travel hack.

Air New Zealand Tests Economy Bunk Beds

Air New Zealand is moving ahead with its “Skynest” concept, giving economy passengers the option to book a four-hour sleep pod on long-haul flights. It’s not business class, but it’s one of the most realistic improvements to long-haul economy comfort we’ve seen in years.

Would you pay for a few hours sleep in economy? Prices from around A$495 for four hours, per person on top of your economy fare.(is roughly equivalent to £250 - £265!

Qantas Moves Closer to 22-Hour Flights

Photo credit

Qantas is progressing with Project Sunrise, aiming to launch nonstop flights from Sydney to London and New York by 2027. With redesigned cabins and a focus on passenger wellbeing, this is less about distance and more about making ultra-long-haul travel more manageable. If you’re planning long-haul “once in a lifetime” trips…and next year is an exciting year for Qantas and aviation with direct London to Sydney Qantas Flights: The 22-Hour Direct Route Taking Off in 2027

Airport & Lounge News

New Aspire Airport lounge Opens in Verona

New Aspire Lounge Opens in Verona

Aspire Pre-Flight Hospitality has opened a new lounge at Verona Airport, featuring runway views, local food and wine, barista coffee, and full lounge amenities including showers and workspaces. Access is available via lounge programmes or paid entry, and it’s part of a wider expansion across Europe, including upcoming UK openings.

About Me

I’m Mr Plane Guy, sharing UK airline news, flight deals, and loyalty tips with a Plane Honest perspective.

I test lounges, review flights, and break down what’s actually worth your money, so you can fly smarter, spend less, and make the most of your points.