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    Drones

    Hunch Mobility Signs MoU with Electra at CII’s Urban Air Mobility Expo 2025

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    Delhi,January 22, 2025: Electra.aero a next-gen aerospace company and Hunch Mobility, a technology-driven platform for affordable on-demand air travel, have signed a MoU to deploy Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. This partnership aims to revolutionize sustainable and quiet regional air travel in India, one of the world’s fastest-growing transportation markets. The MoU was formalized at the India Urban Air Mobility Expo 2025 in Greater Noida, hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) as part of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, showcasing the future of innovative mobility solutions in India. The partnership combines the unique capabilities of Electra’s 9-passenger EL9 aircraft, which can take off and land in under 150 feet, with Hunch Mobility (BLADE India’s) advanced software platform, accessible aircraft operator network, and key infrastructure within major urban centers to provide seamless, direct-to-destination air transport to underserved areas beyond large airports — including small regional airports and novel Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure, providing air connectivity where it doesn’t exist today. The EL9’s in-flight battery recharging and ultra-quiet operation from spaces as compact as football fields, parking lots, or helicopter pads make it ideally suited for India’s evolving mobility needs. “We are excited to partner with Hunch Mobility to bring our EL9 aircraft to the Indian market,” said Marc Ausman, Vice President, Sales and Support at Electra. “This partnership combines Electra’s innovative aircraft technology with Hunch Mobility’s operational expertise and market presence to deliver cleaner, quieter, and faster transportation options that address India’s pressing mobility challenges.” Amit Dutta, Managing Director, Hunch Mobility, added, “Our partnership with Electra represents a significant step forward in our mission to reduce travel friction and offer cost-effective air transportation alternatives. The EL9 aircraft will enable us to expand our services and provide a seamless transition to electric air mobility for our customers.” He further added, “We are happy and proud to announce this partnership at the CII Urban Air Mobility Expo 2025, a landmark event playing a pivotal role in advancing India’s leadership in urban air mobility. This platform brings together manufacturers, facilitators, and operators to foster collaboration and innovation, shaping a future-ready air mobility ecosystem.” Under the terms of the MoU, Electra and Hunch Mobility will collaboratively explore route networks that take full advantage of the EL9’s short takeoff and landing capabilities, targeting highly congested ground routes. Hunch Mobility will contribute operational insights to optimize the EL9’s performance, maintenance, and passenger experience. The partnership also includes joint marketing initiatives and coordinated advocacy for policies supporting research, development, and infrastructure for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).

    Recent News

    BLR Airport Recognised as India’s First Airport to Achieve ACI Accessibility Accreditation

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    Bengaluru, January 22, 2025: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR Airport) has become the first airport in India to receive Level 1 Accreditation under the Airports Council International (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) Program. This recognition highlights BLR Airport’s proactive efforts to create an inclusive and accessible airport environment, ensuring that passengers with reduced mobility, and disabilities, enjoy a seamless and welcoming journey. The AEA Program is designed to enhance accessibility and inclusion at airports by addressing the needs of persons with disabilities and older travellers. In response to the growing global demand for universal design and accessible travel, the program empowers airports to evaluate their facilities, implement improvements, and align with international best practices. Comprising three progressive levels, the program assesses airports on their strategies, policies, and outcomes, prioritising the travel experience for all users, including passengers, visitors, and staff. At BLR Airport, accessibility is integrated into its core operations. A dedicated committee oversees initiatives to enhance facilities, services, and transportation options tailored for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Proactive measures include continuous staff training to ensure empathetic and personalised support for passengers, as well as infrastructure improvements that make air travel stress-free and enjoyable for everyone. Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Operating Officer, Bangalore International Airport Ltd said, “Receiving ACI’s Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation is a reflection of our steady commitment to making air travel inclusive and seamless for everyone. We have introduced several initiatives over the past few years to improve our accessibility, focusing on universal design principles across our terminals, empowering our staff, and constant collaboration with stakeholders. At BLR Airport, we continue to remain dedicated in advancing our efforts, as we strive to achieve our vision of creating a truly welcoming space for all.”

    Business Aviation

    Euroairlines Group increases its turnover by 150% and exceeds 12 million euros

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    Madrid, January 22, 2025: The Euroairlines Group, a Spanish company specializing in air transport and distribution has increased its turnover from 5 million euros in 2023 to more than 12 million in 2024, representing a 150% growth. The result of 2024 is due to the implementation of operational optimization strategies and the diversification of services, elements that have significantly improved financial indicators. In the last financial year, the company’s Ebitda improved by 50%, bringing it closer to the break-even point which is expected to be reached in the second half of 2025. With the aim of consolidating sustainable growth, the Euroairlines Group has carried out capital increases that have allowed the company to enhance its equity, which will help achieve the aforementioned goal of reaching financial balance by the middle of the current fiscal year. In recent months, Euroairlines has signed agreements with major airlines such as GOL, Azul and Ethiopian, which will allow the company to continue to grow in turnover. In fact, the revenues forecast for 2025 will double those achieved last year to over 25 million euros. In addition, the latest agreements will allow Euroairlines Group to consolidate its international presence and become a global benchmark in innovation in air distribution solutions, quality and sustainability. Throughout its 25-year history, the group has been developing and consolidating different aviation businesses, such as airline operator, consultancy, commercial services/BPO and distribution, going from start-up to become one of the ‘big four’ airline distribution companies, with presence in more than 60 markets around the world. This anniversary and the historic increase in turnover mark a milestone for the company, which continues its commitment to technology, sustainability and customer satisfaction as fundamental pillars of its business model. Euroairlines Group CEO, Antonio López-Lázaro explains that these results “reflect the success of a strategy and the collective effort of all members of the company to overcome limits.” “Our goal is to continue growing and providing added value to our customers”, he adds.

    Events, Recent News

    Experia Events to host inaugural Business Aviation Asia Forum and Expo 2025 in Singapore

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    SINGAPORE, 20th January 2025: Experia Events has announced to host the inaugural Business Aviation Asia Forum and Expo (BAAFEx) from 4th to 6th March 2025 at Singapore’s Changi Exhibition Centre. Aircraft maker Boeing Business Jets intend to have aircraft on static display while aircraft operators VistaJet and Amber Aviation have confirmed to have aircraft on static display. VistaJet will have its flagship Bombardier Global 7500 on static display while Amber Aviation will display a Gulfstream G450. The business aviation market in Asia Pacific continues to soar, driven by increasing travel demand and investment in the region. There were around 1,200 business jets based in Asia Pacific, as of the end of 2023; solidifying the region as the world’s third-largest market behind North America and Europe. Vista, a leading global business aviation group and parent company of VistaJet, saw total number of flights increase by 20% year-on-year in the first three quarters of 2024. Southeast Asia has been a particular hotspot for growth, with its business jet fleet expanding by approximately 5% per annum in recent years. “The response from the major aircraft manufacturers, aircraft management and aircraft operators to BAAFEx 2025 has been very positive. The consensus is that Asia Pacific, being the third largest market for business jets, warrants having its own show dedicated to business aviation,” says Leck Chet Lam, Managing Director of Experia Events. “Besides the major aircraft manufacturers, aircraft, management companies and operators, we have worked to sign up companies representing the entire business aviation ecosystem,” adds Leck. Other companies that have signed on for the show include: • maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company Lufthansa Technik; • aircraft management and maintenance company Gama Aviation; • aircraft management, charter, maintenance, training and fixed based operator TAG Aviation • aircraft regulatory body, Bermuda Aircraft Registry; • leading manufacturer of interconnect solutions Glenair • satellite services provider Viasat; • integrated travel risk management company MedAire and many more. These companies’ presence shows their commitment to Asia Pacific’s business aviation sector and their willingness to cater to this fast-growing region. Joe Benson, President of Boeing Business Jets, expressed enthusiasm for the event, saying, “Whether it’s connecting with someone interested in purchasing their first Boeing Business Jet or a long-time customer, building and strengthening our relationships is at the core of our business. With the continued growth across Asia, we look forward to engaging with our customers and showcasing the advantages of operating the largest, most capable and reliable business jets in the world.” Ian Moore, Chief Commercial Officer at Vista, says: “We have been waiting for half a decade to finally have a dedicated business aviation show back in Asia. Asia Pacific is one of the fastest growing regions at Vista, and Southeast Asia is playing a key role in Vista’s expansion in the region. With a global fleet of aircraft from short range, all the way to the ultra-long-haul Global 7500, Vista not only connects clients within Asia Pacific, but also across all continents, covering 96% of the world for point-to-point travel. With the increasing demand we have been seeing coming out from Asia Pacific, we are excited BAAFEx will provide us with the best platform to showcase our product and services, and give us the opportunity to host our global clientele and business partners.” With participation from across the industry spectrum, BAAFEx 2025 is poised to be the ultimate gathering for stakeholders, shaping the future of business aviation. BAAFEx aims to address the growing demand for a dedicated platform that unites stakeholders, fosters collaboration and drives growth in this dynamic sector. With its robust lineup of exhibitors and participants, BAAFEx 2025 is poised to be a transformative event, bringing together key stakeholders to explore the latest innovations, forge partnerships and address the sector’s challenges and opportunities. BAAFEx will offer a dynamic programme that includes: • Exhibition: The exhibition will feature the latest innovations, and services from leading companies in the aviation sector, offering a comprehensive view of the industry’s future. • Expert Panels and Keynote Speakers: BAAFEx will have a conference where industry luminaries will share their insights on the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in business aviation. • Aircraft Displays: Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a stunning array of state-of-the-art business jets from leading manufacturers. These aircraft represent the pinnacle of engineering, comfort and performance. • Networking Opportunities: The show will offer unparalleled networking opportunities to foster collaboration and partnerships.

    Events

    Business Aviation Asia Forum and Expo (BAAFEx)

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    Date: 4-6 March 2025 Venue: Singapore’s Changi Exhibition Centre Organised By: Experia Events BAAFEx aims to address the growing demand for a dedicated platform that unites stakeholders, fosters collaboration and drives growth in this dynamic sector. With its robust lineup of exhibitors and participants, BAAFEx 2025 is poised to be a transformative event, bringing together key stakeholders to explore the latest innovations, forge partnerships and address the sector’s challenges and opportunities.•Exhibition: The exhibition will feature the latest innovations, and services from leading companies in the aviation sector, offering a comprehensive view of the industry’s future. •Expert Panels and Keynote Speakers: BAAFEx will have a conference where industry luminaries will share their insights on the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in business aviation. •Aircraft Displays: Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a stunning array of state-of-the-art business jets from leading manufacturers. These aircraft represent the pinnacle of engineering, comfort and performance. •Networking Opportunities: The show will offer unparalleled networking opportunities to foster collaboration and partnerships.For more information about participation or sponsorship opportunities at BAAFEx, please contact Experia Events at +65 6595 6122 and theresagan@experiaevents.com.

    Defence

    Airbus and HENSOLDT equip “German Airborne Weapon Systems Electronic Warfare Center” with new software and hardware updates

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    Ulm/Germany, 20th January 2025: Airbus Defence and Space equips in close collaboration with HENSOLDT the “German Airborne Weapon Systems Electronic Warfare Center” with new up-to-date software and hardware to provide a streamlined, service-oriented approach to improve the support of mission-specific “Electronic Warfare Mission Data” for the aircraft operated by the German Armed Forces. This joint effort ensures that weapon systems are tailored to each mission and maintain the readiness of the “German Airborne Weapon Systems Electronic Warfare Center” in face of current and future threats. The agreement starts in January 2025 and includes mission-critical software solutions. The highly integrated system will offer an increased amount of automation and allows reduced response times to the end user. Airbus` state-of-the-art operating systems will enhance usability while integrating future-proof technology compatible with advanced weapon systems. It not only paves the way for future integration with additional platforms, but also increases mission effectiveness and enables efficient mission preparation and conduction seamlessly. HENSOLDT provides essential IT services and deployable hardware for mobile operations, including server hardware and workstation computers for personnel. The collaboration between Airbus and HENSOLDT marks a significant step in strengthening Germany’s defence capabilities, ensuring mission effectiveness and readiness in a complex and technology-driven defence environment.

    Recent News

    Air Astana launches new flight from Almaty to Guangzhou

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    Astana, 20th January 2025: Air Astana is set to expand its China network with the launch of a new service from Almaty to Guangzhou on 30th March 2025. Flights to Guangzhou will be operated using Airbus A321LR aircraft three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, with departure from Almaty at 20.50 and arrival in Guangzhou at 05.45 next day. The return flight will depart Guangzhou at 06.50 and arrive in Almaty at 10.20. All times local. Economy class return fares including taxes start at US$531, whilst Business class fares return fares including taxes start at US$1,561. “China has always been a strategically important market for Air Astana, with strong business and leisure traffic growth since the first service was launched between Astana and Beijing more than 20 year ago,” said Peter Foster, Chief Executive of Air Astana. “The launch of the new service to Guangzhou represents a very significant step in expanding Air Astana’s China network.” Guangzhou is the largest industrial center in China, a global leader in textile industry and an important economic and cultural hub with a history spanning more than 2,000 years. The city is located 120 km northwest of Hong Kong. Air Astana currently operates seven weekly flights to Beijing from Almaty and Astana and four weekly flights to Urumqi from Almaty. Kazakhstan citizens can travel in China for up to 30 days without a visa. Guangzhou is the largest industrial center in China, a global leader in textile industry and an important economic and cultural hub with a history spanning more than 2,000 years. The city is located 120 km northwest of Hong Kong. Air Astana currently operates seven weekly flights to Beijing from Almaty and Astana and four weekly flights to Urumqi from Almaty. Kazakhstan citizens can travel in China for up to 30 days without a visa.

    Technology

    Cyient Expands Strategic Partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, Secures Multi-Year Deal for D328eco Technical Publication

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    Hyderabad/Wessling, 20TH Jan 2025: Cyient has announced that it has expanded its strategic partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, German regional aircraft manufacturer. Cyient has been awarded a multi-year contract to manage the advanced technical documentation to support the product lifecycle of safety-critical aviation systems for the 40-seater regional turboprop the D328eco. The solution will support Deutsche Aircraft’s global customer base with a modular and scalable architecture, personalized user experience, faster time to market, and worldwide access through any device. It will take advantage of Cyient AI products embedded in the solution. The collaboration further strengthens Cyient’s position as a trusted partner in the Indian and European aerospace markets, while for Deutsche Aircraft, it marks a significant stride in the “Make in India” mission.“We are excited to further strengthen our collaboration with Deutsche Aircraft by contributing to another critical milestone for the D328eco aircraft development,” said Krishna Bodanapu, Executive Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Cyient. “This continued partnership is a testament to Cyient’s unwavering commitment to delivering innovative engineering solutions in the aerospace sector. Our deep expertise across Aircraft Systems, Software, Structure, Manufacturing, and Aftermarket Solutions positions us to play a global partner role in the success of the D328eco program. Together with Deutsche Aircraft, we are excited to drive forward advancements in sustainable aviation technology, shaping the future of aerospace innovation,” he added. “We are thrilled to be working with Cyient, and the expansion of our partnership represents a strong commitment to India while supporting the “Make in India” initiative,” said Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “This expanded collaboration with Cyient will enable Deutsche Aircraft to work with one of the best ER&D companies in the Aerospace industry and further enhance the development of the D328eco Program. Cyient’s expertise and innovative approach perfectly align with Deutsche Aircraft’s vision of delivering advanced service and product solutions,” he added.

    Civil Aviation

    Qantas Airways Joins AAPA

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    Kuala Lumpur, 20TH Jan 2025: The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has announced that Qantas Airways Limited has joined AAPA with immediate effect.“We are very pleased and honoured to welcome Qantas Airways as a member of AAPA. Qantas, a leading Australian airline with a long heritage, would not only strengthen the Association’s voice in international aviation policy discussions, but also reinforce effective regional collaboration on key aviation tenets, namely safety, sustainability, and seamless air travel,” said Subhas Menon, Director General of AAPA. Cam Wallace, Chief Executive Officer of International and Freight, Qantas, said, “Qantas looks forward to working with members of AAPA as the industry embraces opportunities to meet the evolving needs of customers in a dynamic market, while at the same time confronting challenges such as climate change and supply chain disruptions. There are many areas airlines can share best practices and experiences to benefit the travelling public”.

    Civil Aviation

    Lufthansa Group finalizes 41 percent stake in ITA Airways

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    Frankfurt, 18 January 2025: The Italian airline ITA Airways is a new member of the Lufthansa Group. The Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and Europe’s leading aviation group concluded the transaction today. As a result, the Lufthansa Group has a 41 percent stake in the Italian airline ITA Airways. The remaining 59 percent will initially continue to be held by MEF. The two parties had already agreed in May 2023 that Deutsche Lufthansa AG would acquire a minority stake of 41 percent in ITA Airways. The European Commission had recently approved the participation by approving the remedies on 29 November 2024. Other competition authorities outside the EU have since also approved the participation. The first step of the investment was implemented today by means of a capital increase of 325 million euros. Options for the acquisition of the remaining shares in ITA Airways have been agreed between the Lufthansa Group and MEF and can be exercised from this year. With today’s transaction, ITA Airways is part of the Lufthansa Group and will be the Group’s fifth network airline. Carsten Spohr, Chief Executive Officer Deutsche Lufthansa AG, said,“We are proud to finally welcome ITA Airways to the Lufthansa Group. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this, especially in Rome, Brussels, Berlin and Frankfurt. The ITA Airways team has written an impressive success story in recent years and, with great energy, passion and expertise, has built an airline that is already the pride of an entire nation. We look forward to continuing this success story of ITA Airways together. With our investment, we will now strengthen the Italian and European aviation market and the position of the Lufthansa Group as number one in Europe. Our joint passengers worldwide will benefit from improved offers and optimized connections as early as this upcoming summer flight schedule.” Italy will thus become a further “home market” for the Lufthansa Group. The country is already the company’s second most important international market after the USA, outside the existing home markets of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Belgium. The five-star Rome Fiumicino Airport will be the sixth and southernmost Lufthansa Group hub. Milan-Linate, as a metropolitan airport in the economically strong northern Italy region with the second largest catchment area in the EU, will play a prominent role in the Group. Timely integration ITA Airways will be retained as a strong brand and developed further. With today’s closing of the transaction, the Lufthansa Group and ITA Airways can conclude the first cooperation agreements for their passengers. In a few weeks, ITA Airways frequent flyers will be able to collect their points or miles either in ITA Airways’ existing “Volare” program or already in Miles & More, the Lufthansa Group’s loyalty program. In addition, Miles & More participants will have the opportunity to earn and redeem miles on ITA Airways flights. Further collaborations, such as joint codeshare connections, mutual use of the respective lounges and the planned admission to the Star Alliance aviation alliance, are to follow successively. Further details will be communicated to customers and partners in a timely manner. ITA Airways (IATA flight number code “AZ”) is a young airline that has been growing since it started operating in 2021. Its modern, environmentally friendly Airbus fleet currently numbers 99 aircraft, including 22 long-haul Airbus A350-900, Airbus A330-900neo and A330-200 aircraft. ITA Airways flies to almost 70 destinations around the world. The airline’s home base is its Rome Fiumicino (5-star Skytrax) and Milan Linate airport. In 2024, the airline welcomed around 18 million passengers on board its aircraft. Joerg Eberhart (54) is appointed as new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ITA Airways. He is also a managing member of the Board of Directors of the Italian airline, which is based in Rome. In this role, Joerg Eberhart will take over the tasks previously performed on an interim basis by Antonino Turicchi and Andrea Benassi. Lorenza Maggio (47) will take over the position of “Chief Strategy and Integration Officer” (CSIO) and will become a member of the Board of Directors of ITA Airways. In this position, Lorenza Maggio will manage the strategic development of the airline and be responsible for its integration into the Lufthansa Group. Michael Trestl (39) will be responsible for the holistic integration of ITA Airways into the Lufthansa Group as “ITA Implementation Officer” and will transfer from Austrian Airlines to the Group headquarters in Frankfurt for this purpose. Michael Trestl has been a member of the Austrian Airlines Executive Board and Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) since 2021. “I am delighted that we can appoint two managers from our own ranks to the management of ITA Airways: Joerg Eberhart and Lorenza Maggio,” says Carsten Spohr. “With their extensive experience and expertise, they will continue ITA Airways’ successful course and quickly integrate the airline into the Lufthansa Group. With Michael Trestl, an experienced airline manager will take over the integration task in the group.”

    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!

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    NEWSLETTER

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    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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