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    June 22, 2026

    Defence

    Israel MOD DG leads official defence delegation to India

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    New Delhi, 22nd June 2026: The Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defence (IMOD), Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram, held a series of high-level meetings with India’s Defence Minister, Defence Secretary, Chief of Defence Staff, and other senior officials from India’s Ministry of Defence, during which both sides discussed avenues for deepening bilateral defence and industrial cooperation. This visit reflects the Defence Minister and the Ministry’s strategy to expand defence exports as a tool for strengthening the IDF’s force build-up, shaping foreign policy, and bolstering the Israeli defence industry and economy. It is part of a broader effort to widen Israel’s circle of strategic partnerships with an eastward focus and deepen cooperation with key nations in the region. IMOD Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram,“India is a key strategic partner of the State of Israel. This important visit, the result of a lengthy bilateral preparation process, reflects the great importance that India and Israel attach to expanding their growing defence and industrial alliance – but no less so, the depth of the bond between our two nations. A bond rooted in shared values, deep cultural appreciation, and mutual trust that goes well beyond mere interests. That is what makes this partnership unique, and the joint projects we are advancing together all the more meaningful.” Image Courtesy: Ministry of Defence,(India)

    Business Aviation

    Nomad Technics completes BBJ maintenance, refurbishment and satcom upgrade

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    Basel, 22 June, 2026 : Nomad Technics has recently redelivered a Boeing BBJ after extensive  maintenance and various upgrades. The aircraft, owned and operated by Action Aviation, came to Basel for a 12 year inspection and landing gear overhaul. To make optimal use of the ground time, Action Aviation selected a  number of upgrades for the aircraft and its interior. Nomad Technics installed the Gogo Galileo FDX satcom system, one of the first such installations on a BBJ world-wide. Aero Visto re-upholstered all seats and divans in a bespoke design by Aero Visto and Simrick supplier a new carpe, to give the cabin a completely fresh appearance. The monitors of  the in-flight entertainment system were replaced with larger, higher resolution monitors and the system was upgraded with the addition of an app-based video on demand streaming system, designed specifically for the client. The cabin lighting system in the aircraft was changed to multicolor LED mood lights which be controlled with an app. Nomad Technics also installed a completely new app based moving map system to be displayed on the cabin monitors as well as personal devices. “The project was interesting and challenging to put together, but I think that’s something that made us win because the client saw how quickly and efficiently we can do things. Our responsiveness, honesty and transparency built trust with the customer and we carried that on throughout the  project. They were involved in all the parts even in the quotation phrase. It was a collaborative effort.”, says Brigita Vildžiūnienė, Director of Sales of Nomad Technics. ” We are grateful to Action Aviation and our partners that have entrusted us with such a large scale project. To allow us to work on this airplane. It has been a wonderful experience.”, adds Thomas Gierlich, CEO of Nomad Technics.

    Drones

    AutoFlight selected for Hong Kong’s inaugural “Regulatory Sandbox X” flight trials

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    “Regulatory Sandbox X” is Hong Kong’s flagship low-altitude economy initiative, led by the Transport and Logistics Bureau Two of the four projects will use AutoFlight’s heavy-lift eVTOL for demonstration flights AutoFlight will work with local partners to develop low-altitude routes and operations across the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area Kunshan,22 June 2026 : AutoFlight, electric vertical take‑off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has been selected for the inaugural round of Hong Kong’s “Regulatory Sandbox X” – a flagship initiative to advance the city’s low-altitude economy and explore innovative applications. Launched by the Transport and Logistics Bureau and supported by Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department, “Regulatory Sandbox X” takes an open, forward-looking approach to compliant test flights, scenario validation, and iterative technology upgrades for innovative unmanned aircraft. The aim is to pave the way for low‑carbon, high‑efficiency air mobility. Two of the four approved projects will be carried out using AutoFlight’s heavy-lift eVTOL, underscoring the company’s R&D strength, extensive flight‑test experience, and commercial readiness. AutoFlight will work with partners including China Travel Service (Hong Kong) Automobile Services Limited and AECOM Limited on route planning, flight-parameter calibration, and end-to-end flight validation. Together, these efforts will steadily widen the scope of low-altitude commercial applications across the region. Xie Jia, senior vice president of AutoFlight, noted that AutoFlight will use this opportunity to deepen its investment in core eVTOL technology and commercial deployment, supporting Hong Kong’s emerging low-altitude transport network. Working closely with the Civil Aviation Department and industry partners, the company aims to help scale up the Greater Bay Area’s low-altitude economy safely and at commercial scale. ( The banner image is of February 2024 when AutoFlight’s 2 ton eVTOL completed a landmark cross-sea flight between Shenzhen and Zhuhai.)

    Top Stories

    Akasa Air receives its 39th aircraft; marks eighth induction in CY 2026

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    Delhi, 22 June 2026: Akasa Air has received delivery of its 39th aircraft, consistently building scale in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. The aircraft marks the airline’s eighth induction in CY2026 and will support its continued network expansion and operational strength. The first leg of the aircraft’s delivery flight commenced from Seattle, USA, to Reykjavik, Iceland and concluded with the final leg from Cairo, Egypt, to Bengaluru, India. Bearing registration number VT-YBP, the Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 aircraft arrived at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on 22nd June 2026. The aircraft is purpose-built to Akasa’s specifications and equipped with Safran Z200 seats, a next-generation seating solution designed to elevate the in-flight experience. The seats feature a generous four-inch recline, an ergonomically contoured backrest, and enhanced cushioning for superior sitting comfort, alongside thoughtfully positioned additional conveniences such as USB-C and USB-A ports to support the needs of today’s hyper-connected travellers. Akasa Air has placed a firm order for 226 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, with a pipeline of 187 additional aircraft scheduled for delivery over the next six years. As India’s aviation sector continues to witness sustained growth, the airline remains committed to contributing meaningfully to the country’s evolving air travel ecosystem.

    2026

    Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines introduces joint fare products

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    Kuala Lumpur, 22nd June 2026: Malaysia Airlines (MAB) and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have launched their strategic joint business partnership, formalised in January 2026 following the regulatory approvals, with the introduction of joint fare products for travel between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The new joint fare offerings build on the airlines’ existing codeshare partnership, enabling MAB and SIA to provide customers with a greater variety of fare options between the two capital cities, as well as enhanced connectivity across the combined network of both carriers. MAB and SIA are also working towards the progressive introduction of additional customer benefits, including reciprocal lounge access, coordinated flight schedules, and joint corporate travel arrangements. These initiatives reflect the airlines’ deepening commercial collaboration and shared commitment to improving connectivity between Malaysia, Singapore, and the wider region. Bryan Foong, Chief Executive Officer of Airline Business, Malaysia Aviation Group, said: “This joint business partnership with Singapore Airlines marks a significant milestone in the expansion of our commercial collaboration. By introducing joint fare products, we are giving our customers greater choice, improved flexibility, and a more seamless travel experience. This collaboration also lays the foundation for deeper integration across our networks, ultimately benefiting both leisure and business travellers.” Lee Lik Hsin, Chief Commercial Officer, Singapore Airlines, said: “The introduction of joint fare products with Malaysia Airlines expands the range of fare options available to customers travelling between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, offering more flexibility and convenience when planning their journeys. As we deepen our collaboration, we will continue to combine our strengths to enhance both airlines’ offerings and deliver greater value to customers, while strengthening the long-standing people-to-people connections and trade links between Singapore and Malaysia.”

    Airports

    Qatar Airways resumes daily flights to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

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    Delhi, 22nd June 2026: Qatar Airways has announced the resumption of daily flights between its Doha home base and Philadelphia from 1 August 2026, with service on the Doha (DOH)–Philadelphia (PHL) and Philadelphia (PHL)–Doha (DOH) routes, extending the airline’s North American network to a total of 14 destinations with 11 destinations alone in the U.S., further strengthening its connectivity for travellers across the world. Qatar Airways will resume the direct flights to the largest city in Pennsylvania, operating Airbus A350-900 aircraft equipped with the airline’s award-winning Qsuite business class and Starlink, the fastest Wi-Fi in the sky, ensuring a seamless journey for passengers. The resumption of flights reflects the airline’s deep commitment to the U.S. market and will provide travellers from across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East with a new route via its award-winning hub, Hamad International Airport. In the U.S., the resumed flights will provide enhanced onward connectivity through Qatar Airways’ oneworld partner, American Airlines. Since launching its inaugural U.S. service to New York in 2007, Qatar Airways has steadily expanded its presence across North America, offering passengers increased flexibility, premium travel experiences, and seamless connectivity to more than 160 destinations worldwide. This summer, in addition to PHL, Qatar Airways will operate flights to 11 other U.S. destinations: Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), and Washington, D.C. (IAD).

    2026

    Air India and Booking.com announces strategic partnership

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    New Delhi, 22nd June 2026: Air India and Booking.com, the global digital travel platforms, has announced a strategic partnership to deliver a more seamless and rewarding travel booking experience. Customers can now access a vast array of global accommodations via a dedicated co-branded platform on the Air India website and mobile app, powered by Booking.com, along with exclusive benefits and loyalty rewards for Maharaja Club members. The co-branded platform offers Air India customers access to Booking.com’s extensive global inventory of over 31 million reported listings in 45 languages, including 8.6 million listings in homes, villas and other unique places to stay, backed by its 24/7 customer support. Air India’s Maharaja Club members can earn 5 Maharaja Points for every INR 100 spent on stays booked through the dedicated platform. These points can be redeemed for award flights and cabin upgrades. Customers will also benefit from exclusive discounts of up to 15% on participating properties for a limited period, from June 22 to July 21, 2026. “Our partnership with Booking.com is another step in our efforts to build a comprehensive travel ecosystem for our customers. By combining Air India’s growing global network with Booking.com’s vast portfolio, we are offering our guests greater convenience, choice and added value across journeys,” said Abhijit Menon, Divisional Vice President & Head of Revenue Management, Air India. Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director and Vice President, Asia Pacific at Booking.com, said “As travellers increasingly seek integrated, digital-first travel experiences, we are excited to partner with Air India. This collaboration reflects our Connected Trip vision of making travel planning simpler and more seamless. By combining our diverse global accommodation inventory with Air India’s growing international network, we are helping to make it easier for travellers to book their flights and stay in one place. This partnership also reinforces our commitment to India, delivering greater value, rewarding loyalty and creating a more seamless, end-to-end travel experience.”

    Civil Aviation

    Air India Express to become first airline to launch direct flight between Navi Mumbai and Abu Dhabi

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    The airline will commence direct flights to Abu Dhabi from 15 July 2026, expanding travel options across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and strengthening connectivity between India’s financial capital and the UAE capital. Delhi,22 June 2026: Air India Express has announced the launch of direct flights between Navi Mumbai International Airport and Abu Dhabi, becoming the first airline to operate international services from Maharashtra’s newest airport. The new route provides travellers across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region with a second gateway to the UAE, enhancing accessibility, convenience, and travel choice. Flights will operate from 15 July 2026, with an initial frequency of two weekly services, scaling to three weekly flights from 29 July 2026. With the addition of this route, Air India Express will operate 30 weekly flights from Navi Mumbai, connecting the airport directly to Abu Dhabi, Bengaluru, and Delhi. Air India Express’ presence in Maharashtra continues to grow steadily, with over 95 weekly flights from Mumbai, more than 100 weekly flights from Pune and 14 weekly flights from Nagpur. The airline operates one of the largest networks between India and West Asia connecting multiple Indian cities with destinations across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. (Air India Express Image Courtesy: Krish Aarush/wikipedia)

    FOREWORD

    Dear Reader’s,

     

    The current edition of Aviation World has covered many areas of Aerospace & Defence based on the latest development in the sector. The front cover highlights three different images, first for the Union Civil Aviation Minister ….. who is leading from the front to steer Indian Civil Aviation sector to witness one of the most interesting phases. He is also facing most tumultuous timing due to the ongoing financial stress in the Aviation sector due to ATF rising cost and long airspace restrictions resulting in mounting losses for Indian carriers. Despite of all the ground level challenges,the minister is addressing new things on regular basis which keeps the sector motivated. We have featured many such developmental works in this edition done under his guidance which will be interesting to read.

    Our lead story on “ The West War” is another important feature which covers the ground level reality of the challenges faced by the Aviation sector. Its though time ahead and we believe it will pass soon .

    There are features on Regional connectivity and MoCA revised rules on the UDAN 2.0 and how its going to transform the flying experience within India.

    In this edition, we have covered topics on MRO,Various Policy changes,Sea Plane Operations by SkyHop Aviation, TATA-Airbus joint project on C295 military aircraft under Make In India which is expected to roll out soon and many other interesting contents which will be good to read.

    We are covering Farnborough International Airshow 2026 from 20-24July 2026 in London and our next edition will be based on the same event.For features, you may contact our team on priority basis.

     

    Happy Reading!

    USEFUL LINK

    NEWSLETTER

    Aviation World Magazine is India’s premier aviation magazine and has been actively supporting the development of the Indian and global civil aviation sector. We started our journey in year 2015 and its been 12 years now and the response and acceptance is really encouraging. Thanks to all our associates and writers who remained with us in our progressive journey.

    We have started 2026 on a very positive note and we look forward to increase our footprints to more locations and induct many more new companies in our campaign.. Do write to us at : editor@aviationworld.in

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