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Recent News

SpiceJet to launch seaplane operations on multiple routes in 2025

Vijaywada, 9th Nov 2024: Once again, SpiceJet is looking forward to start Sea plane operations from 2025 in Andhra Pradesh,to be very precise from Punnami Ghat in the Krishna River in Vijaywada. Later, the services will be expanded to 20 other routes including Hyd, Lakshadweep, Guwahati & Shillong. Today, the CM N Chandrababu Naidu launched the Sea plane demo flight from Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada to Srisailam in Nandyal District. The flight will operate under Spice Shuttle whose CEO is Avni Singh, daughter of Ajay Singh. The aircraft will be provided by De Havilland.( Pix: Social media handles)

Business Aviation

Gulfstream Offers Starlink In-Flight Wi-Fi for G650 and G650ER

Savannah, Ga., 8th Nov 2024: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. recently announced that it has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supplemental type certification to install Starlink high-speed internet on the award-winning G650 and G650ER. This FAA approval gives G650 and G650ER customers the added convenience of working directly with Gulfstream to upgrade connectivity for their aircraft. “Starlink is an offering that we know is important to operators,” said Derek Zimmerman, president, Gulfstream Customer Support. “Our team has invested extensive time and resources preparing for this certification, and we are well-positioned across our service network to provide a seamless installation. Having the capability to install this connectivity upgrade at our own facilities, in the hands of our trusted team of experts, is part of our ongoing commitment to our customers.” Starlink gives passengers simultaneous access to a variety of in-flight services, including video calls, cloud-based offerings and data transfers, through its high-speed in-flight connectivity, which delivers latency less than 99 milliseconds and download speeds of 40 – 220 Mbps. Gulfstream is currently pursuing similar supplemental type certificates from the FAA for the G800, G700, G600, G500, G400, G280, GIV, GIV-X, GV and GV-SP.

Recent News

Air India Group Announces Management Changes

Gurugram, 08 November 2024: Air India Group announced a number of management changes occasioned by the merger of Air India and Vistara scheduled for 12 November 2024. • Vinod Kannan, Chief Executive Officer of Vistara who has also been holding the role of Chief Integration Officer for the full-service airlines’ merger, will continue in the latter role post-merger. He will be a member of the Management Committee and report directly to Air India CEO Campbell Wilson. • Deepak Rajawat, Chief Commercial Officer of Vistara, will take up the Chief Financial Officer role at newly-enlarged Air India Express, reporting to CEO Aloke Singh. He will also support Group CFO Sanjay Sharma in strategic initiatives and projects. Consequently, Vikas Agarwal, the current CFO of Air India Express, will move to a new role in Air India. • Capt. Hamish Maxwell, SVP Flight Operations of Vistara, has assumed an advisory role to Air India Express CEO Aloke Singh, while Capt. Pushpinder Singh, Chief Operations Officer of Air India Express, returns to flying. A successor for Capt. Singh will be announced in due course. • Deepa Chadha and Vinod Bhatt, SVP HR & Corporate Affairs and Chief Information Officer of Vistara respectively, will take on senior roles at other Tata group companies, while Vistara CFO Niyant Maru, who had graciously continued beyond his superannuation date to see through completion of the merger, will retire at the end of his current term. All other Air India Group CXO roles and reporting lines roles remain unchanged. Announcing these transitions, Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India, said,“Over the past two years the four Tata airlines have worked hard to prepare for and execute one of the most complex mergers in aviation history, consolidating from four airlines to two in the context of dramatic growth and wholesale transformation. As we now approach the end of that process, we are delighted to formalise a Group leadership comprising colleagues from all four antecedent airlines to drive the next phase of our journey. I would also like to acknowledge those who, whether retiring or taking up other roles within the Tata group, have contributed so significantly not just to the consolidation process but, over many years, to the DNA of what is now the new Air India.”

Civil Aviation

Finnair’s First Renewed Embraer Aircraft is Ready

New Delhi, 08 November 2024: Finnair is renewing the cabins of its Embraer fleet to increase passenger comfort also on shorter routes. The first refurbished Embraer cabin is now completed, and the target is to renew the entire fleet of 12 Embraer aircraft by spring 2026. Seven aircraft will be renewed during the winter season 2024–2025, and the remaining Embraer aircraft will be renewed during the winter season 2025–2026. The Embraer fleet is used on routes to many of Finnair’s destinations in Finland and the rest of Europe, especially shorter routes in Northern and Central Europe. The colour scheme and atmosphere of the new cabins have been designed to match that of Finnair’s recently refurbished wide-body fleet and Finnair’s new Schengen lounge at Helsinki Airport. “We wanted to create a harmonious, fresh and inviting travel environment for our customers, with dark blue and grey colours and a hint of wooden laminate – elements familiar from our long-haul aircraft,” says Eerika Enne, Head of Inflight Customer Experience. “The renewed cabin will feature two new seats. The seats on rows 1– 9 offer a bit of additional comfort thanks to its design and cushioning. The seats in the first rows recline slightly, while from row 10, the seat does not recline. The service concept will remain unchanged in connection with the cabin renewal,” says Enne. The number of seats remains unchanged, with 100 seats in Finnair’s E190 aircraft as before. In connection with the cabin renewal, lighting was also renewed to LED lighting. One of the targets of the Embraer cabin renewal has been to reduce the weight of the aircraft, as reduced weight means lower fuel consumption and, thus, lower carbon dioxide emissions. Weight has thus been a consideration for all elements in the cabin. “Both the Business Class seat and the Economy Class seat are lighter than the previous Embraer cabin seats, and also the cabin carpet is made of a lighter material than before. With these changes, we aim to reduce the weight of the aircraft by approximately 150 kg per aircraft,” Enne notes.

Tourism

The Rise of Bleisure Travel

Enhancing Business Trips with “Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower” in Hyderabad By Vikas Sharma, CEO – Encalm Hospitality As global travel resumes and business professionals are back on the move, a new trend is reshaping the travel industry—bleisure. This blend of business and leisure travel allows professionals to balance productivity with relaxation, transforming work trips into more fulfilling and enjoyable experiences. As bleisure travel gains momentum, several countries have started offering work + vacation visas to attract professionals looking for an extended stay. Countries like Barbados, Estonia, and Portugal are leading this trend with special visas that allow travelers to work remotely while exploring the local culture and Australia seems to have just joined the wagon too! This means you can conduct business meetings in the morning and enjoy a sunset on the beach by evening—perfect for those embracing the bleisure lifestyle! The modern professional no longer sees business travel as just a means to attend meetings and conferences. With bleisure travel on the rise, business trips are now an opportunity to explore new cities, unwind after work commitments, and even extend stays for personal enjoyment. According to recent industry reports, more than 60% of business travelers now seek out ways to combine work with leisure, making bleisure a defining feature of the corporate travel landscape. As bleisure travel grows in popularity, the need for services that cater to both aspects of the journey has become more important than ever. In Hyderabad, our Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower services are leading the charge in enhancing the bleisure experience for business travelers.Millennials are driving the bleisure trend. They prioritize work-life balance and see business trips as an opportunity to explore new places. They tend to extend business trips to enjoy a city’s culture, food, and experiences. Hyderabad, a thriving metropolis known for its technology sector and historic landmarks, is a top destination for business travelers in India. While the city offers a range of cultural attractions and vibrant dining options, our Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower services cater to the immediate needs of professionals by providing a space to relax and recharge in the middle of their demanding schedules. We offer private, comfortable spaces where travelers can take a short nap or refresh with a rejuvenating spa or a quick shower. Whether they have just arrived after a long-haul flight or are preparing for a day filled with meetings, our services ensure they feel rested, alert, and ready to tackle their tasks. Companies have found that offering opportunities for bleisure travel boosts employee satisfaction and morale. It allows professionals to refresh mentally and physically, making them more productive during their work commitments. By providing convenient and efficient facilities, we allow business travelers to maximize their time in Hyderabad without sacrificing their well-being. Our facilities are strategically located in key transit areas, making it easy for travelers to access them. A quick nap or shower can make all the difference in maintaining mental sharpness and physical energy, setting travelers up for a productive day ahead. As the concept of bleisure continues to shape the travel industry, services like *”Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower”* are becoming essential for today’s business traveler. Hyderabad’s growing reputation as a business hub, combined with our focus on traveler well-being, makes the city an ideal destination for bleisure travelers who want to stay productive while enjoying a touch of leisure. In a world where the lines between work and leisure are increasingly blurred, our services help elevate the bleisure experience, ensuring every business trip is as refreshing as it is successful. With a focus on convenience, comfort, and quality, *”Transit by Encalm- Nap and Shower”* Is guaranteed to transform short breaks into moments of genuine relaxation, enhancing the overall bleisure experience and raising the standard of business travel in Hyderabad. (The writer brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry with his visionary leadership has been instrumental in positioning Encalm as a leader in airport hospitality across India.)

MRO

Air Astana successfully completes its first 12-year C-check

Astana, 7th Nov 2024: Air Astana has become the first Kazakh carrier to carry out a heavy maintenance 12-Year C-check, which was conducted on an Air Astana Airbus A321 aircraft. “Our successful completion of the first heavy maintenance 12-Year C-check on an Airbus A321 serves to confirm the sophisticated and growing capability of Air Astana’s engineering resource and staff” said Robert Dando, Director Astana Technical Centre and C-Check maintenance. “The ongoing commitment to develop in-house maintenance strength has significantly reduced costs previously incurred when heavy maintenance tasks were undertaken outside Kazakhstan.” During the 12-Year C-check, comprehensive in-depth inspections and tests were conducted on all parts of the aircraft. The aircraft is systematically stripped down and a full inspection of the aircraft structure and components is performed, including inside the fuel tanks. The use of non-destructive testing methods are used to achieve some of these inspections. Major components such as the engines were removed for the inspection of their attachments and structure. After completing these tasks, the aircraft was rebuilt, and then extensive system tests were carried out. After all maintenance is complete, a maintenance check flight is performed to ensure everything if functioning correctly, from flight controls to in-flight entertainment, and then the aircraft can be released for passenger operation. The Airbus A321 that underwent the 12-Year C-check has been flying in Air Astana’s fleet since 2012. The company plans to perform another 12-Year C-check by the end of this year. Air Astana was approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency to conduct 12-Year C-checks on Airbus A320/A321 aircraft in 2023. Air Astana performed its very first 1C-check in 2019, the first 2C-check in 2022 and the first 6-Year C-check in 2023, and in total Air Astana has now completed 32 C-checks in-house.

Defence

ROSOBORONEXPORT to display military aviation and air defence at the Airshow China 2024

Moscow, 7th Nov 2024: JSC ROSOBORONEXPORT (part of Rostec State Corporation) is organizing a large-scale demonstration of the most advanced samples of the Russian aviation, helicopter assets and air defence means at the China Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition Airshow China 2024. The airshow will be held in the period from November 12 to November 17 on the territory of the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition Center in the city of Zhuhai, China. “Airshow China is one of the biggest events for civil and military aircraft manufacturers worldwide. It was held for the first time in 1996 and Russia took part in all the airshows. For ROSOBORONEXPORT Airshow China is a hallmark event. The Russian special exporter, established on November 4, 2000, began its exhibition activities in Zhuhai exactly,”- said Alexander Mikheev, Director General of ROSOBORONEXPORT. – “The Russian exposition at Airshow China in 2024 organized by ROSOBORONEXPORT features a wide range of weapons and military equipment on display. For the first time the 5th generation fighter Su-57E will take part in the flying program abroad, state-of-the-art guided missiles and aerial bombs will be presented, as well as advanced weaponry of the Ka-52E helicopter, the best reconnaissance and strike helicopter in its class.” More than 20 of the country’s defence enterprises specializing in the development and production of military aircraft, helicopters, air-launched ordnance, air defence and antiballistic missile defence systems and assets, electronic warfare suites, engines and avionics representing the joint Russian exposition will unveil their products. In the combat aviation segment airshow visitors will see on display the advanced multi-functional fighter Su-57E which will take part in the flying program of the exhibition. The airshow will include the maiden demonstration flights abroad by the 5th generation fighter Su-57E developed and made by PJSC United Aircraft Corporation (part of Rostec State Corporation). Besides, the Russian Knights Group (“RusskieVityazi”), always welcomed very warmly by Chinese spectators, will perform aerobatic maneuvers on the Su-35 type fighters. The Su-57E will also be on display on the static parking lot along with the state-of-the art air-launched ordnance developed and produced by the JSC Tactical Missiles Corporation. These may be included as part of the aircraft armament suites of the 4++ and 5 generation fighters, both Russian and foreign-made. Among the novelties there are a multi-functional stealth missile of a new generation Kh-69 and an anti-radar missile Kh-59UShKE demonstrated abroad for the first time, guided missile “GROM-E1” aerial bombs: smart bomb K08BE and guided glide bomb UPAB-1500B-E. ROSOBORONEXPORT will show in its booth the Ka-52E combat reconnaissance and strike helicopter. The company will demonstrate the possibility of integrating into its weapons suite a tactical anti-ship missile Kh-35UE designed to defeat combat ships and transport vessels, as well as an aerial modular guided missile Kh-38MLE intended to destroy infrastructure facilities, hardened ground targets and water surface targets in the coastal zone exhibited out of Russia for the first time. In the air defence segment ROSOBORONEXPORT will present the S-350E AD missile system “Vityaz” made by the JSC Concern VKO “Almaz-Antey” which under realistic combat conditions showed a high capability of destroying a wide range of air targets, including when operating in the fully automatic mode. At the Airshow China 2024 ROSOBORONEXPORT will continue the promotion of a unique project related to forming units of airborne troops within the structure of the armed forces of foreign partners. Within the framework of this proposal the company will present a refuelling aircraft Il-78MK-90A capable of being converted into a military transport plane, an airborne fighting vehicle BMD-4M and a 125 mm self-propelled modernized anti-tank gun 2S25. The military hardware of the airborne troops may be air-dropped with a parachute on a pre-selected site. ROSOBORONEXPORT is prepared to render assistance in the organization and staffing of airborne units, in building the necessary ground infrastructure, in outfitting with all types of weapons and equipment, in the training of personnel. Within the framework of the Airshow China 2024 business program ROSOBORONEXPORT will hold meetings and negotiations with the representatives of China’s People’s Liberation Army and delegations of countries friendly to Russia on the issues of cooperation and strengthening of the military and technical potential.

Civil Aviation

Jet Airways is a past as Supreme Court orders its Liquidation under “Article 142”

New Delhi,7th Nov 2024: By Aviation World Desk In one of the biggest jolt to the Indian Aviation sector, the Supreme Court invoked its extraordinary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to order the liquidation of Jet Airways in view of the “peculiar and alarming” circumstance that the resolution plan has not been implemented for five years. NCLAT had earlier, upheld the transfer of ownership of the airline to the Jalan Kalrock Consortium (JKC) as part of the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP). The Supreme Court, while issuing an order observed that JKC failed to comply with the resolution as it failed to infuse Rs 150 crore, the first trench of Rs 350 crore to clear the outstanding of workers and airport among other essential costs. The latest judgement marks the end of the airline’s struggle to revive itself.The Court also directed the NCLT Mumbai Bench to appoint a liquidator forthwith and forfeit Rs 200 crores as paid by the Successful Resolution Applicant(SRA). The Court set aside the NCLAT Order which allowed Jet Airways’ ownership transfer to the SRA without complete payment in accordance with the resolution plan. The bench of CJI DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra had reserved the judgment on October 16. The NCLAT order was challenged by SBI-led lenders of the cash-strapped Airlines. “This litigation is an eyeopener, has taught us many lessons about the IBC and the functioning of NCLAT,” Justice Pardiwala orally said before the pronouncement.The Court held that the NCLAT order allowing the adjustment of the first tranche of payment of Rs 350 crores against the Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) was in “flagrant disregard” of the order of the Supreme Court passed on January 18 and was “perverse.” “We have no doubt that the NCLAT acted contrary to settled legal principles and it incorrectly interpreted our order,” the Court observed in the judgment.

Recent News

Air India advances partnership with Sabre with launch of NDC content

New Delhi,Nov.7, 2024: Sabre Corporation,software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, announced a major milestone in air travel distribution for India, with the launch of New Distribution Capability (NDC) content for Air India, the country’s flagship airline. As part of Air India’s strategic modernization efforts, the introduction of NDC offers through Sabre will enhance the way Sabre-connected travel agents shop, book and service Air India reservations. Sabre’s NDC capabilities, a core component of its multi-source content platform, will provide agencies with rich content and real-time offers from Air India, ultimately, giving travelers greater transparency, choice, and flexibility. Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said: “At Air India, our aim is to deliver superior customer service through innovative technologies. By continuing to enhance our partnership with Sabre, we’re able to advance our NDC journey to meet the evolving needs of travel agencies and passengers, providing an enhanced experience.” Sabre and Air India already have an agreement in place to distribute Air India’s traditional content, both in India and globally. With the launch of NDC offers through Sabre, Air India aims to further optimize its distribution strategy, providing travel agencies with a broader range of real-time offers. By using Sabre’s technology, the airline will be able to offer a more streamlined, efficient shopping experience that meets the dynamic needs of the modern traveller. “We’re energized to extend our collaboration with Air India by launching their NDC content and helping to enhance their distribution capabilities,” said Kathy Morgan, Senior Vice President of Product Management, Distribution Experience, Sabre Travel Solutions. “India is a key market for Sabre and for the travel industry overall as it fuels increased demand for travel. It’s important that the airline can distribute its NDC content easily to third party sellers and, in turn, that travel agencies can shop, compare, book and service multiple types of air content to provide the travellers they serve with a compelling experience.” Thousands of Sabre-connected agencies in more than 150 countries around the world are already shopping, booking, and servicing NDC content through Sabre’s global travel marketplace.

Civil Aviation

Royal Brunei Airlines Launches Direct Flight to Chennai

Chennai, 6th November 2024: Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has launched new direct flight route between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, India. RB’s Airbus A320neo landed at Chennai International Airport on the 5th of November 2024 at approximately 22:50 IST and was greeted by a water cannon salute.This new connection signifies a significant expansion in RB’s global network. It marks a historic step in strengthening the cultural, economic, and people-to-people ties between Brunei Darussalam and India. The airline celebrated the launch in Chennai through a series of events in collaboration with the Brunei High Commission in India, the Brunei Economic and Development Board (BEDB), and Brunei Tourism (BT) at the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai, aimed at strengthening partnerships, promoting Brunei as a unique destination, and showcasing investment opportunities for Indian businesses. Press Conference: RB’s CEO, Chief Commercial Officer, STIC Travel Group (RB’s agent in India)and Brunei Tourism representatives held a press conference, where they introduced Brunei and the new route and spoke on the broader significance of this connection for both nations. BEDB Investment Seminar: In collaboration with BEDB, an investment seminar was organised for Indian business leaders. BEDB representatives presented Brunei’s attractive investment landscape, which includes a stable political environment, modern infrastructure, and strategic access to the ASEAN market. This session fostered connections between Indian businesses and Bruneian representatives, promoting partnerships in crucial trade, technology, and tourism sectors. Brunei Night: The highlight of the celebrations, Brunei Night, showcased Brunei’s rich culture and hospitality with traditional Bruneian performances and a special address from H.E. Dato PadukaHj Alaihuddin MohdTaha, the High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to India. The occasion commemorated the 40th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between Brunei and India, reflecting on decades of mutual friendship and partnership that have fostered growth and understanding across both nations. The Chief Guest for the event was The Honorable Dr T.R.B. Rajaa, Minister of Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce, Tamil Nadu whereas the Guest of Honour was His Excellency Shri S Vijayakumar, Head of the Ministry of External Affairs Branch in Chennai. Also in attendance was Shri B. Krishnamoorthy, IOFS, Project Director, Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation, as the Special Guest. Captain Sabirin bin HjAbdul Hamid, CEO of Royal Brunei Airlines, remarked during the celebrations: “Launching this new route is more than just a flight connection; it is a bridge between two nations. We are excited to open new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Brunei and India. This route connects Bruneians and our international guests to the vibrant city of Chennai and the many experiences it has to offer, and it enhances travel options for those from India wishing to explore the peaceful beauty of Brunei Darussalam.” Royal Brunei Airlines’ new route offers three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, providing seamless travel for leisure and business passengers. Passengers will travel aboard the modern Airbus A320neo, known for its quiet and fuel-efficient performance. With the strategic codeshare agreement with Air India, passengers flying to and from Chennai can easily connect to other major destinations in RB’s network, including Melbourne, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Singapore, Seoul, Manila, and Taipei. Since formal diplomatic ties were established in 1984, India and Brunei have enjoyed a lasting partnership enriched by a shared heritage and a commitment to development. This new route launch aligns with India’s Prime Minister Modi’s vision for an ASEAN-India Tourism Year in 2025 and supports increased travel, business exchanges, and cultural interactions. Captain Haji Sabirin noted, “This new route exemplifies our support for Brunei’s Wawasan 2035 vision to create a dynamic and globally connected economy. We are delighted to be part of this journey, promoting Brunei as a hidden gem for Indian travellers who wish to experience tranquillity, natural beauty, and a unique cultural heritage. Royal Brunei Airlines remains committed to its mission of connecting Brunei with the world, delivering exceptional travel experiences and fostering international partnerships. The Chennai route is a promising step toward stronger regional ties and underscores RB’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Indian market.RB’s Airbus A320neo aircraft will serve the route and ensure passengers enjoy the latest comfort, technology, and efficiency with RB’s world-renowned cabin crew offering the signature Bruneian hospitality that RB is known for globally.

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!

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

Disclaimer

The contents published in this website are news covering Aviation, Aerospace and Defence sector. The objective is to provide news in informative form to keep our readers updated of the latest development. We also publish content featured in our print publication Aviation World.We try our best to avoid any factual errors or image displayed here but we ensure immediate corrections to any such thing brought to our notice that might have been published inadvertently. All images and contents are sourced from the relevant organisations media team.

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