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    Civil Aviation

    Tata Sons & Singapore Airlines celebrate Vistara’s merger with Air India

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    Delhi, 18th Nov 2024: Tata Sons (Tata) and Singapore Airlines (SIA) celebrated the successful merger of Air India and Vistara at a ceremony held in New Delhi. The event was attended by Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, and Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Airlines, as well as senior management and employees from Tata, SIA, Air India, and Vistara. Post taking over of Air India, Tata Sons are under process of consolidating the four airlines within the Air India Group into one full-service and one low-cost airline is part of the ongoing, five-year Vihaan.AI transformation programme. This creates an Air India Group with a significant presence across all key segments of the Indian market – domestic, international, full-service, and low-cost operations. This will help to enhance the Group’s operational capabilities, expand its customer base, and gradually elevate service standards, product excellence, and the customer experience. Post-merger, the Air India Group operates a combined fleet of 300 aircraft covering 55 domestic and 48 international destinations, with 312 routes and 8,300 flights per week. The airline will offer extended worldwide connectivity to over 800 destinations through more than 75 codeshare and interline partners. The collective staff strength stands at over 30,000. Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman, of Tata Sons, said,“It has been a little over two and a half years since the homecoming of Air India to the Tata Group. This week’s merger between Air India and Vistara is an important milestone in our commitment to transform Air India into a world-class global airline. Singapore Airlines continues to be our strategic partner in our aviation journey and we welcome them to Air India.” Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, of Singapore Airlines, said: “This merger marks a pivotal moment for Indian aviation. Working with our valued, long-standing partner Tata Sons, the SIA Group will support the ongoing transformation of the enlarged Air India Group, offering our stewardship and expertise where possible. We are focused on helping to restore Air India to its leading position in the Indian aviation market and creating an airline Group that everyone in India can be proud of. “For the SIA Group, the completion of the merger reinforces our long-standing direct participation in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. Singapore Airlines is committed to deepening our commercial collaboration with Air India, and finding ways to provide greater value and enhanced options to our customers on flights between India and Singapore, and beyond.”

    Recent News

    Aviation sector sees new high as five lakh domestic passengers fly in a day

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    New Delhi, 18th Nov 2024: The Indian aviation sector achieved a historic milestone on November 17, 2024, with 5,05,412 domestic passengers departing across the country in a single day. This marks the first time domestic passenger numbers have surpassed the 5-lakh mark, showcasing India’s growing prominence in the global aviation landscape. More than 3,100 planes took off taking more than five lakh passengers. The passenger count has been increasing continuously after the UDAN – “Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik” scheme, which was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on October 21, 2016. This achievement reflects the sector’s rapid expansion, supported by enhanced connectivity, passenger-friendly policies, and increased accessibility to affordable air travel. It highlights the seamless efforts of all stakeholders, from airlines to airport operators, in providing reliable and efficient services to passengers. On this momentous occasion, Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu said, “This number shows that the air travel is now more accessible to the people of India.” He added this landmark became possible because of the schemes like UDAN which has brought air travel closer to the people The UDAN has revolutionized the air travel connecting the remote parts of India to global destinations. The Ministry of Civil Aviation continues to play a pivotal role in driving the growth of the sector through initiatives like the Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN), development of greenfield airports, and the digitalization of passenger services. This milestone serves as a testament to the resilience and potential of India’s aviation industry, further cementing its position as a key driver of the Nation’s economic progress.

    Recent News

    Garuda Aerospace’s Agri-drones complete 10,00,000 Hours of Flight Time

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    Chennai,18th November 2024: Garuda Aerospace with its fleet of over 2,000 Agri-drones, has recorded 10 lakh hours of flying time in the past year an average rate of one drone every two minutes. This consistent deployment has enabled the company to support farmers across the country, boosting productivity and sustainability.These high-tech drones, equipped with advanced sensors and GPS guidance, are empowering farmers to: • Precision Agriculture: Deliver targeted treatments of pesticides, fertilisers, and nutrients, optimising resource utilisation and minimising environmental impact • Reduced Environmental Impact and Improve Safety: Sustainable farming practices minimize waste, protect the environment, and create safer working conditions for farmers. • Real-Time Monitoring: Monitor crop health in real-time and enable early detection of pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies • Data-Driven Decisions: Leverage data analytics to make informed decisions on planting cycles, harvesting, and resource allocation. Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, highlighted the company’s broader vision: “Our achievement of 10 lakh hours of agricultural drone operations is a testament to our dedication to revolutionising Indian agriculture. We are deeply committed to providing innovative, accessible solutions for every farmer, and this milestone reflects the progress we’re making in transforming India’s agricultural landscape for a sustainable future. Garuda’s vision is to make drone technology as ubiquitous as tractors, revolutionising Indian agriculture and positioning India as a global leader in sustainable farming practices.”

    Airports

    Etihad Airways completes one year of operations at Zayed International Airport Terminal A

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    Abu Dhabi,18th Nov 2024: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, completed a year of operations at its home in Terminal A, Zayed International Airport. Since the full transition to the new terminal in November 2023, the airline has significantly expanded its operations from 1,336 weekly flights to 1,732, and connects Abu Dhabi to more than 80 destinations worldwide through its extensive network. Operating from the world-class Terminal A, Etihad has played a crucial role in Zayed International Airport’s recognition as the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East for scheduled seat capacity on international flights, with capacity to handle up to 45 million passengers annually. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “In just one year, Terminal A has transformed the travel experience for our guests and supported Etihad’s ambitious growth plans. This world-class facility has enabled us to enhance our service standards significantly, offering greater comfort and convenience while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub. As we continue to expand our network and fleet, Terminal A provides the perfect platform for Etihad’s next chapter of growth.” The airline’s premium offering has reached new heights with its flagship First and Business class lounges, spanning three floors. These exclusive spaces feature the Be Relax Spa, which is open to all passengers, with complimentary treatments for First Class and Residence guests. The lounges showcase the Liwan Global Dining restaurant with live cooking stations and buffet, and the iconic Constellation Bar adorned with a 25-metre glass lighting sculpture depicting the Abu Dhabi skyline. The lounges offer direct boarding access from three gates and include dedicated family spaces, relaxation rooms with day beds, showers, and VIP rooms for First class lounge guests. In addition, for arriving Guests, the Etihad Chauffeur waiting area offers shower facilities and grab-and-go snacks – allowing Guests to refresh after their flight before availing the Etihad chauffeur service. Enhancing the guest experience has been a key focus throughout Etihad’s first year at Terminal A. Guests using self-service kiosks with biometric face recognition can complete their bag drop in as little as 30 seconds. The new terminal’s biometric technology, available at check-in, boarding gate, and immigration touchpoints today, has ambitious plans for future roll out further supporting a smooth and swift journey for passengers. The recent transition of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility to Terminal A further enhances the passenger experience, making Abu Dhabi the only US preclearance facility in the Middle East and Asia. This service allows Etihad’s guests to complete all US immigration and customs formalities before departure, enabling seamless arrival in the United States. Following continued fleet expansion in 2024 and with more aircraft joining in 2025, Etihad Airways continues its network expansion strategy, introducing new destinations across the globe from its home at Zayed International Airport.

    Recent News

    Embraer and Indonesia’s PTDI sign MoU to foster collaboration in Commercial Aviation

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    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, November 18, 2024: Embraer and PT Dirgantara Indonesia, Indonesia’s leading aerospace company, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at growing collaboration in commercial aviation. The MoU was signed at the Indonesia-Brazil CEO Forum, chaired by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil in the presence of several Indonesian figures including Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Special Presidential Envoy of the Republic of Indonesia Hashim Djojohadikusumo and Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) Anindya Bakrie. Embraer and PTDI will conduct joint studies to evaluate partnership opportunities in commercial aviation, in areas such as engineering and the supply of aerostructures. The collaboration framework will be guided by rigorous commercial and technical standards, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and business objectives. Both companies are committed to exploring opportunities that create mutual value while maintaining the highest quality and performance standards in aerospace manufacturing. This agreement represents a significant step in advancing aerospace collaboration between Brazil and Indonesia, fostering technological innovation and industrial partnerships across emerging economies. “As Indonesia’s premier aerospace manufacturer, PTDI has strong ambitions for Indonesia,” said Gita Amperiawan, President Director of PT Dirgantara Indonesia. “We look forward to developing this collaboration and tapping on Embraer’s 55 years of expertise and knowledge, which will boost our capabilities, particularly in the commercial aviation sector.” “We are excited about this growing relationship between Embraer and Indonesia’s PTDI,” said Rodrigo Silva e Souza, Vice President of Marketing for Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Indonesia is one of the fastest growing aviation markets globally and we see areas where both parties can harness the strength of its expertise, enhance Indonesia’s aerospace capabilities and expand its air connectivity.” The Indonesian Air Force operates a fleet of A-29 Super Tucanos and there is a sizeable fleet of Embraer business jets operating in the country. PT Wira Jasa Angkasa (WJA) is Embraer Executive Jets’ appointed authorized service center in Indonesia.

    Events

    BIAS 2024 launches with royal opening, aircraft debuts and international attendance

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    Bahrain,Nov. 14th 2024: The seventh edition of Bahrain International Airshow was officially inaugurated on behalf of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa by the Deputy King, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa at Sakhir Air Base which was held under the patronage of His Majesty the King. Announcements came from a range of businesses in attendance across the show. Today Valo Aviation has become the Kingdom’s inaugural business jet operator after receiving its Bahraini Air Operators Certificate (AOC), with the aim to manage 15 aircraft within the next two years from its home base of Manama. IronNet, the AI-based collective defense cybersecurity company, and Asterion, a leader in counter-UAS technology, also announced today at the Bahrain International Airshow a partnership on the protection of critical infrastructure through the integration of AI-based cybersecurity and counter-UAS solutions. Over 125 different types of aircraft are being showcased, providing visitors the opportunity to experience them close up, before a curated flying display of assets and aerobatic teams takes to the sky to demonstrate the latest innovations and technologies in the industry. Aiming to be its busiest and most spectacular instalment yet, BIAS has also seen debuts from USDOD B-52H Stratofortress and flydubai within it’s static display. The flying display saw the skies above Sakhir Air Base filled with the world’s most renowned air display teams and aircraft, with showcases of the RBAF F-16, RSAF Saudi Hawks, RSAF Typhoon, US DOD F-16, Gulf Air B787-9, US DOD P-8 Poseidon, PAF JF-17, IAF Sarang Helicopter Team and The Global Stars. The Bahrain International Airshow is held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and under the supervision of His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and the Chairman of BIAS’ Supreme Organising Committee. The Bahrain International Airshow continues on 14 November and 15 November 2024.

    Cargo, Recent News

    Sterling expands its AOG logistics offering across the APAC region

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    Singapore,November 14, 2024: Sterling, part of Kuehne+Nagel and a leader in global aviation logistics, has announced plans to open a third global control tower focused on urgent Aircraft-on-Ground (AOG) logistics services. Located in Singapore, the new APAC team will join those at existing control towers in London and Washington D.C. This will give aviation companies round-the-clock access to Sterling’s seasoned logistics experts in some of the world’s most critical markets. “We’re continually investing in our global network, which includes enhancing our teams and infrastructure in APAC,” says Rob Broderick, Executive Vice President for Sterling. “Our newest control tower will allow us to combine available resources from around the world to deliver the mission-critical results our customers expect.” As with the London and D.C. locations, the Singapore control tower will offer 24/7 priority pickup and delivery, optimized route planning that leverages a range of air and ground transportation options and a secure chain of custody, among other services. To support its growth and further meet the diverse needs of the industry, Sterling is also forming several strategic partnerships – both throughout the region and worldwide. “Given Singapore’s importance as a key aviation hub in APAC, this expansion solidifies Sterling’s commitment to ensuring customer needs are always met, even in the most complex and demanding AOG situations.” Saurabh Doshi, Vice President for Sterling in APAC.

    Top Stories

    Asia Pacific Airlines Outpace Global Growth Amidst Challenges

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    Brunei, Darussalam,14th Nov 2024: Leaders of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA), gathered for the 68th Assembly of Presidents in Brunei Darussalam, to discuss the future of aviation under the theme “Jetting into 2050: Future Proofing Asian Aviation”. Airline leaders were optimistic, as regional air travel and cargo growth continues to surpass the global industry’s growth, while load factors remain steadfastly strong. Reflecting the collective priorities and shared resolve of Asian airline leaders, the Assembly of Presidents passed a series of resolutions covering sustainability, aviation safety and the streamlining of regulations. Airlines are firmly committed to reducing their carbon footprint. With extreme weather events on the rise, airline leaders are only too aware of the risks to aviation safety from climate change. With Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in short supply, AAPA believes that a multi-prong strategy in line with the ICAO net zero emissions reduction roadmap, is critical to meeting the industry’s net zero emissions target. The Assembly passed a resolution calling on Governments, suppliers, air navigation service providers and airlines to deploy all aspects of the ICAO roadmap, namely SAF, breakthrough technology, CORSIA offsets and operational efficiency, in pursuing the net zero emissions by 2050 goal. In particular, SAF produced by co-processing sustainable feedstock together with crude fossil fuel in conventional aviation fuel refineries, is a cost-effective way to stimulate SAF supply. Airlines and fuel suppliers could give impetus to the transition to SAF with co-processed SAF being made available at airports immediately. “Every new generation of aircraft and engine delivers 15-20% more fuel efficiency. The acceleration of plans for carbon-friendly aircraft and propulsion systems is an effective pathway to the common goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, starting with short-haul aircraft that currently account for some 28% of industry emissions. With delays in the delivery of new generation aircraft, airlines are extending the use of older equipment. A strategy that prioritises technology alongside SAF, is a surer route to carbon neutrality, than one over-reliant on SAF,” said Mr. Subhas Menon, AAPA Director General. Aviation safety remains the number one priority of all airlines. The Assembly adopted a resolution calling for civil aviation authorities, aviation safety agencies and airlines to work closely together to share best practices through data analysis, to mitigate risks such as the loss of control in-flight. The resolution also called on all stakeholders to support the adoption of safety measures that address the most critical risk categories identified in the Asia Pacific region. “The Assembly welcomed the results and recommendations of the safety culture survey conducted by the Flight Safety Foundation, as aviation safety is about promoting a proactive safety culture, leveraging data and sharing best practices to improve performance,” said Mr. Menon. The Assembly of Presidents acknowledged that supply chain disruptions and air space closures, are leading to more flight diversions, delays, and cancellations, while also inhibiting future growth. Such issues, including component failures and labour shortages were impinging on schedule reliability. Conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and in the Middle East have resulted in airspace closures, exacerbating the situation. Knee-jerk reactions by some governments target only the symptoms of failure, while burdening airlines with more cost and complexity. A third resolution was passed calling on governments to refrain from introducing unilateral measures that would disproportionately inconvenience the travelling public and increase the cost burden on the airline industry, while achieving limited benefits. There needed to be greater recognition of the value of aviation to the global economy, and closer collaboration amongst governments, industry, and service providers, to streamline protocols for international travel. Mr. Menon concluded, “The outlook for the region’s airlines is broadly positive, given the sustained demand for air travel and strong rebound in trade activity. It is a remarkable recovery on key metrics, considering that air transport ground to an almost complete standstill for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This is also a timely testament to the industry’s endurance and longevity as we commemorate the 80thAnniversary of the ICAO Chicago Convention in 2024. By keeping the travelling public and the economies we serve at the core of our strategy, the industry is well positioned to tackle upcoming challenges and pursue sustainable growth in the years ahead.”

    Recent News

    Travelport and ANA signs NDC for Multi-Source Content Agreement named a ‘Friendly Partner’ of ANA

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    LANGLEY UK, November 14, 2024: Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide, and All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s largest airline, today announced they have signed a multi-source content distribution agreement that includes New Distribution Capability (NDC) content and servicing. Named a ‘Friendly Partner’ of ANA, Travelport is the first global distribution system (GDS) to confirm an NDC distribution agreement with the airline. Travelport and ANA are actively collaborating to make ANA’s NDC content available via Travelport+, targeting mid-year 2025.“Travelport has been a valued partner of ANA for many years as a result of our productive collaboration that enhances our modern retailing approach so we can provide exceptional experiences for our travelers,” said Keiji Omae, Executive Vice President of Customer Experience at ANA. “As we advance our NDC strategy, I am confident that Travelport can play a crucial role in helping us expand our reach and simplify the booking and servicing process as agents and travelers shop for our best offers.” Travelport and ANA have deepened their long-standing relationship to ensure that Travelport-connected agencies will continue to have simplified access to ANA’s wide range product offerings, including ancillary services. Travelport+ is the only modern retailing platform built for travel agencies. To date, thousands of travel agencies in more than 178 countries can easily search, sell and service multi-source content, including NDC, using Travelport’s APIs, Smartpoint Cloud and Smartpoint desktop agency point-of-sale solutions. “This pivotal agreement confirms that agencies using Travelport+ will be able to access relevant, personalized, and enriched multi-source content from ANA, which means travelers are presented with more choice among ANA’s best offers and fares,” said Damian Hickey, Global Head of Air Partners at Travelport. “As ANA’s friendly partner, we are dedicated to delivering ANA’s content to our agency customers in a retail-ready way so that selling and servicing NDC bookings is effortless for agents.”

    Events

    IndiAirport :Exhibition On Airport Technology

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    Event Date: 26,27,28 November 2024 Venue: Yashobhoomi Convention Center, Dwarka, Delhi Organised By: Radeecal Communications IFWexpo Supporting Partner: GATE Industry Partner: PHDCCI IndiAirport Expo & Conference will give a future focused unmissable opportunity to all sectors of airport related technology, equipment and services. It will offer a first-class platform to demonstrate products and showcase participants’ vision for the future.The event will reveal the latest equipment and technologies for effective airport solutions and high-quality services. The participants can engage with Indian clients through the shows’ comprehensive network, interactive features and unparalleled access to all-encompassing networking opportunities. IndiAirport offers an ideal opportunity for participants of airport products, services and solutions to meet and engage with senior and middle management from airports, airlines, government agencies, regulators, ground handlers, architects, engineers, consultancies, suppliers and buyers with responsibilities for the following areas and more. https://indiairport.com/

    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

    Disclaimer

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