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    Civil Aviation

    Akasa Air’s all-women pilot crew bring home its 25th Boeing 737 MAX aircraft

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    Delhi, 12th September 2024: Two women pilots Captain Bhavna Gandhi and Captain Sanaya Chothia received delivery of Akasa Air’s 25th aircraft in Seattle on September 9, 2024. The first leg of the women-led delivery flight commenced from Seattle, USA, to Keflavik, Iceland, and concluded with the final leg from Larnaca, Cyprus, to Hyderabad, India. Bearing the registration number VT-YBB, the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft arrived at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad on 12th September 2024. Akasa Air has registered unprecedented growth since its inception in August 2022. In 2021, Akasa Air placed its initial order of 72 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which was followed by an order of four Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in June 2023. In January 2024, the airline placed another landmark order of 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, becoming the first Indian airline to reach an order book of 226 aircraft within 17 months of commencing operations. The airline has now taken delivery of 25 aircraft and is on track to receive deliveries of another 201 aircraft over the next eight years.

    Defence

    Embraer looking at enhancing its supply chain base in India

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    Bangalore,12th September, 2024: A high-level delegation from Embraer is concluding a visit to India this week as it evaluates the expansion of its supply chain into the country. Embraer foresees potential suppliers across its defense, commercial aviation and executive jets businesses for areas such as aerostructures, machining, sheet metal, composites, forgings, wire harness, and hardware and software development, recognizing that aerospace engineering capabilities are clearly present and available in the country. The visit comes amidst burgeoning relations between Brazil and India. “India has a robust aviation and defense industry, and we see strong viability for manufacturers and systems developers in India to be key suppliers to Embraer,” said Roberto Chaves, Executive Vice-President of Global Procurement and Supply Chain at Embraer. “We are driven by a common vision, which is to drive the aviation capabilities of Brazil and India to greater heights, and to deliver value to our customers around the world.” India is a strategic market for Embraer in all its business segments. The Embraer footprint in the country surpasses 44 aircraft, including customers in Commercial Aviation, Executive Jets and Defense & Security. In particular, the Indian Government and Indian Air Force operate a fleet of 5 Embraer VIP jets and 3 EMB 145 AEW “Netra” military aircraft, respectively. One of Embraer’s key future opportunities in India is the Indian Air Force MTA (Medium Transport Aircraft) program, in which Embraer is well-positioned to offer the best in class, modern C-390 Millennium transport aircraft in partnership with the very reputed Indian company Mahindra. The two companies announced their partnership back in February 2024. Embraer sees India as a key partner in the region and expects, together with Mahindra, to implement an extensive local supply chain program. This initiative may include an assembly line for the C-390 in India, when selected for this program. Tied with a local long-term support program offer, Embraer and Mahindra aim to fulfill the expectations of the “Make in India” initiative of the Indian Government.

    Recent News

    SITA unveils essential protection for aviation network communications

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    GENEVA – 11th September 2024: SITA, the global air transport technology, today announced the launch of its new cybersecurity hardening solution, SITA Managed NAC (Network Access Control). This innovative solution is designed to safeguard mission-critical infrastructure at airports and for airlines, addressing the growing demand for secure and reliable access for end users and assets. With increasing threats to digital infrastructure, particularly in complex environments like airports, SITA Managed NAC offers unparalleled protection for Local Area Network (LAN) and Wireless LAN communications with additional layers of identification checks and network segmentation. This ensures that airports and airlines comply with industry security standards while maintaining operational efficiency and protecting passenger systems. “Demand for secure and reliable network access controls is higher than ever, particularly in airports where traffic and device segregation is paramount in different areas of airport infrastructure and security zones,” said Martin Smillie, SITA SVP for Communications and Data Exchange (CDE), “As external threats to digital infrastructure escalate, this solution will ensure that essential communication systems keep ahead, with built-in safeguards at access points and switches. SITA Managed NAC provides complete visibility and control over communication networks, allowing customers to monitor who is accessing what, when, and from where.” Enhancing Compliance and Cyber Resilience SITA Managed NAC aligns with stringent cybersecurity recommendations from authorities like the US Transportation Security Agency (TSA) and the Airports Council International (ACI). The solution provides granular control over network access, detailed logging capabilities, and the ability to quarantine non-compliant devices, helping airports and airlines enhance their cybersecurity posture and ensure regulatory compliance. Seamless Integration and Zero Trust Security Designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing SITA Campus Network product, SITA Managed NAC enhances network management by offering identity-based access control and policy enforcement based on Cisco’s industry-leading Identity Services Engine (ISE) platform. Utilizing a Zero Trust security model, every access request is authenticated, authorized, and continuously validated, ensuring only verified users and devices can connect to the network. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and potential breaches.

    Recent News

    Cathay Pacific to provide complimentary Wi-Fi in First and Business class

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    Hong Kong, 11th September 2024: Customers travelling in First or Business class onboard connected Cathay Pacific aircraft can now avail complimentary Wi-Fi service on their flight – the latest enhancement the airline is making to the inflight customer experience. Cathay Pacific has been providing complimentary Wi-Fi services to First class customers since 2022. Following successful trials on selected flights, the airline has now extended complimentary Wi-Fi to Business class customers on all connected aircraft, and will be further extending it to Cathay Diamond members travelling in all cabins in November this year. Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “At Cathay Pacific, we are committed to investing in and further elevating the experience we provide for our customers. With complimentary Wi-Fi now available to customers travelling in First and Business class, and coming soon to our Cathay Diamond members, they can stay connected in the air whether travelling for business or leisure.’’ Customers using Cathay Pacific’s complimentary Wi-Fi service can enjoy the same experience as paid Wi-Fi, enabling them to check emails, browse the internet, stream audio, use social media and messaging apps, and access cloud storage services and other professional applications. Customers can connect with one device at a time, and can switch between devices at any time during their flight. Customers in all cabins can enjoy complimentary access to all pages on cathaypacific.com and the Cathay Shop during their flight. Over 90% of Cathay Pacific’s fleet is already equipped with Wi-Fi, including all long-haul aircraft. The airline plans to extend connectivity across its entire fleet by mid-2025.

    Events

    Indonesia’s elite pilots to soar high at Bali International Airshow 2024

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    Jakarta,11th September 2024: The skies over Bali will be filled with exhilarating aerial performances as the renowned Jupiter Aerobatic Team and Neptunus Aerobatic Team, both from Indonesia and solo flying display of F-35A Lightning II from Australia, take to the air from 18 to 21 September 2024 at the Bali International Airshow. This four-day event promises to showcase the precision, skill, and artistry of these elite pilots, captivating spectators with a series of breathtaking displays. The flying displays will be held daily, providing multiple opportunities for attendees to witness incredible performances. The schedule will kick off on 18 September, with the first show set to take off at 10:30 AM Indonesia Central Standard Time (WITA). Subsequent performances for the day are scheduled for 12:30 PM, and 3:30 PM lasting 20 minutes respectively. From September 19 to 21, four flying displays are set to colour the Bali sky from 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM,12:30 PM and 3:30 PM, each lasting 20 minutes. “As Indonesia hosts the Bali International Airshow 2024, we are immensely proud to showcase the exceptional talents of our own Jupiter and Neptunus Aerobatic Teams in the airshow. These flying displays are not just a demonstration of aerial skill and precision but a symbol of our nation’s growing prowess in the aviation and aerospace sectors. Our teams represent the spirit of innovation and excellence that defines Indonesia, and we are excited to share their breathtaking performances with the world,” said H.E. Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment of the Republic of Indonesia. The Jupiter Aerobatic Team, part of the Indonesian Air Force, will fly six KT-1B Wongbee aircraft. These planes, painted in vibrant red and white, are equipped with white smoke generators and will perform complex manoeuvres across the Bali skies. The KT-1B Wongbee, with a wingspan of 10.6 metres and a top speed of 350 knots (648.2 km/h), will allow the team to demonstrate their exceptional aerobatic skills, honed through years of international performances at events like the 2023 Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) and the 2024 Singapore Airshow. Joining them is the Neptunus Aerobatic Team from the Indonesian Naval Aviation Center, flying six Bonanza G36 light aircraft. Due to the different characteristics of aircraft, the manoeuvres and acrobatics formations performed by the Neptune team differed from those performed by the Jupiter team of the Air Force. However, the Neptunus team will deliver equally exciting and entertaining performances. The Bonanza G36, with a wingspan of 10.12 metres and a top speed of 205 knots (463km/h), has been a crowd favourite at events such as the “Hari Ulang Tahun (HUT) Penerbangan Angkatan Laut (TNI AL) 2016”, the 2017 Indonesia Naval Base Open Day, and the 2018 Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) in Lombok Island. The latter event had 25 countries participating from Asia, Africa, Europe, and America. Taking the sky solo, the F-35A Lightning II will be piloted by the Royal Australian Air Force. The aircraft is at the forefront of air combat technology with advanced sensors and data fusion allowing it to gather and share information faster than ever before. Reaching at a top speed of machs 1.6 (1,960 km/h), it is capable of supersonic flight while retaining stealth. The F-35A has extraordinary acceleration, agility and 9G (gravity force) manoeuvrability. “With the support of both global and local aviation and aerospace industries, the Bali International Airshow will elevate Indonesia’s standing in the global aerospace and defense sectors. By harnessing innovation and the expertise of various stakeholders, we believe that the airshow will catapult Indonesia’s role as a key player on the world stage,” added the Minister. The Bali International Airshow 2024 is not just about exciting aerial displays; it is also a significant event for trade visitors involved in the aviation and aerospace industries. PUBLIC ADMISSION DETAILS The airshow is also open to the public on Public Day, which happens on Saturday, 21 September. Aviation enthusiasts and the general public can purchase tickets and shuttle bus passes on Loket.com until September 21, 2024. Public Day tickets are priced at Rp165,000 while round-trip shuttle bus tickets are priced at Rp111,000. A “Buy 5, Get 1 Free” offer is available during the regular sales period. All prices are inclusive of tax, and children under six and seniors over 65 can attend for free. “We are excited to host an event that not only entertains but also fosters collaboration and innovation within the aviation community,” said Mr. Andy Wismarsyah, Chief Executive Officer of PT Inaro Tujuh Belas. “The Bali International Airshow 2024 is a testament to Indonesia’s growing influence in the global aerospace sector.” Expanding a total area of 78,000 square metres, with a static aircraft display area of up to 70,000 square metres and an exhibition hall of 8,000 square metres. The airshow is estimated to gather 6,000 trade visitors who will attend the event, bringing together 100 companies and over 100 delegations from 35 countries and regions. The Bali International Airshow 2024 aims to position Indonesia at the forefront of the global aviation and aerospace industries by showcasing innovation and expertise from key stakeholders. As the first Indonesian International Airshow of the 21st century, it seeks to elevate the event’s prominence in Southeast Asia and globally, highlighting Indonesia’s strengths in these critical sectors.

    Training

    Avion appointed as exclusive sales & service partner for Simnest Aviation in the APAC region

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    Singapore, 11th September 2024: At the Asia Pacific Airline Training Symposium ( APATS) 2024 Singapore, Hungarian fixed-base simulator manufacturer Simnest Aviation and Dutch Full Flight Simulator manufacturer and flight training center operator Avion, have entered into an agreement. Under this agreement, Avion – Gen24 will be the exclusive sales and service partner for Simnest Aviation in the APAC region. Following twenty successfully installed and certified type-representative simulators in Europe, Simnest Aviation decided in 2023 to expand to APAC countries.This year,Simnest Aviation took another significant step towards achieving its Asian goals and appointed Avion, which will soon open its new training center in Mumbai. “We have a long-standing business and friendly relationship with Avion. Their leaders and staff are renowned professionals and excellent people we have known over the years. Although we produce simulators at different levels, our mindset perfectly matches in terms of FSTDs. We all believe in training the pilots of the future on simulators of the highest possible capability and quality, far beyond the official standards. This extraordinary business relationship has called us to place our trust in Avion and to entrust them with our representation in APAC countries with a calm heart and high hopes.” – expressed his sentiments Balázs Herendi, CEO of Simnest Aviation. The collaboration does not end with sales representation. After completing the necessary training, Avion’s staff will install Simnest’s simulators and provide support for simulators installed in the region. Additionally, Avion has also ordered a Simnest A320 FNPT II APS MCC simulator for its new flight training center in Mumbai. This marks another milestone for Simnest Aviation in the Asian market, as this will be their first simulator in the APAC region. Avion’s new high-fidelity fixed-base FSTD will be used both as a demonstration device to support sales activities and to conduct training courses that don’t need the highest qualified Level D Avion Full Flight Simulators. Manoj Pandey, Group CEO of Avion and Gen24, sees a lot of potential for Simnest in the Asia Pacific region: “Partnering with Simnest aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality training solutions across the Asia Pacific region. By combining Simnest’s innovative fixed-base simulators with Avion’s Full Flight Simulators, we can deliver a versatile and complete package that caters to the diverse needs of airlines and training organizations. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration presents and look forward to strengthening our presence in this booming market.” The two sides announced their cooperation with a formal celebration at Simnest’s booth at the 20th Asia Pacific Airline Training Symposium in Singapore. The Simnest A320 FNPT II APS MCC simulator will be delivered and installed by Simnest at the Avion Flight Training Center in Mumbai in February 2025.

    Recent News

    Def Sec to co-chair 5th India-Philippines Joint Def Cooperation Committee meeting in Manila

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    New Delhi, 11th Sept. 2024: Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane will undertake a visit to Manila to co-chair the fifth meeting of India-Philippines Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) on September 11, 2024. The meeting will be co-chaired by Senior Under Secretary from the Ministry of National Defence of Philippines Mr Irineo Cruz Espino. During the visit, the Defence Secretary will discuss ways to further consolidate defence cooperation between the two countries. He will also meet with other dignitaries of the government of Philippines. This visit assumes significance as India and Philippines celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of India’s Act East Policy. Both the countries have a vigorous and multifaceted relationship which have expanded into several strategic areas, including defence and security. They are committed to support each other towards achieving the goal of self-reliance in defence production. The JDCC construct has been established under the ambit of the Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation signed between the two countries in 2006. The fourth edition of JDCC meeting was held in March 2023 in New Delhi at the Joint Secretary-level. The fifth edition marks the elevation of the co-chair to Secretary-level.

    Business Aviation

    KlasJet expands in Middle East market with additional B-737

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    Dubai, 10th September 2024: KlasJet, a well-known exclusive private and corporate jet charter company and part of the world’s largest ACMI providers, the Avia Solutions Group family, will increase its capacity in the Middle East with the placement of an additional Boeing 737 in Saudi Arabia.The aircraft offers luxury and extravagant accommodations and will join another 737 that KlasJet moved to Dubai last year, continuing the company’s expansion in the region which is fastest-growing business aviation market in the world. “We are increasing the options to cater to customers in the Middle East market because there is a growing need to transport larger groups and delegations,” Lukas Petrauskas, Chief Commercial Officer at KlasJet, said. “We are confident that our luxury Boeing 737 will be an ideal choice for extended families,members of royal families, sports teams, business travelers, and political delegations who have yet to be served by aircraft currently in the regional charter fleet.” The Boeing 737features 56 spacious and comfortable business-class seats, with a cabin experience curated and tailored by KlasJet to ensure a luxurious and high-quality flight for all passengers onboard. The aircraft is meticulously crafted with attention to detail, offering subtle and distinguished taste throughout the cabin to enhance the travel experience. “While our service has earned a reputation for quality across the world, the additional aircraft and crew will build upon the experience we have earned operating in Dubai,” Petrauskas said. “Our relationships with our clientele in the region have given an enhanced understanding of the taste and nuances of customers, so the experience and potential of every flight is maximized.” KlasJet currently operates six 737sfor VIP charter services as well as seven 737 next-generation aircraft for ACMI. The ACMI fleet aircraft bolster the capability to cater to larger groups, while the 737 provides a luxurious option for smaller groups and high-ranking individuals. Fleet availability is subject to customer needs, and the company is working to maximize its flexibility for this coming event season.

    Recent News

    Adani Airports launches ‘aviio’ – a technology platform for a seamless passenger experience

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    Ahmedabad, 10th September 2024: Adani Airports Holdings Ltd (AAHL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises has launched aviio – a digital transformation platform for the airport ecosystem. A first-of-its-kind, comprehensive digital initiative in India, aviio aspires to bring the aviation community together to collaborate and serve passengers better. By enabling airport stakeholders with access to real-time data, passengers can expect easier access to airport information in the form of updates related to security checks, wait times, gate change and bags on belt, among other aspects. With this path-breaking initiative, AAHL aims to serve the aviation community and set new standards for airport operations management and passenger experience. With seven operational airports in its stable, and one more expected to go live during the middle of 2025, this platform for B2B services has been conceptualised and curated to meet AAHL’s unique need to manage airports at scale. Acting as the backbone for all digital transformation initiatives, the aviio platform is placed to create a benchmark for airport operations across globe. AAHL’s vision for aviio encompasses the development of a cutting-edge Smart Airport Operations System, conceived as a replicable model of an ‘Airport-in-a-Box’. This next-generation Airport Planning and Operation Centre (APOC) has 10x more features that help in arriving at data-driven decisions. Apart from AAHL employees, the aviio app (AOCC-on-the-go) is for all partners in the ecosystem, including, AAHL employees, airlines, ground handlers, retail, etc. Each stakeholder will have relevant features and workflows to enable their roles. CISF personnel would be provided smart phones, with the app installed, to ensure collaboration with all entities. “On the face of it, this multipurpose app is designed to revolutionise stakeholder collaboration, equipping both internal and external stakeholders at airports with improved situational awareness for informed decision-making. However, the most important impact of aviio would be on passenger journeys – this app is all set to transform the way passengers transit through our airports,” said Mr. Arun Bansal, CEO, AAHL. “This initiative commits to help AAHL improve our capacity planning, operational efficiencies and real time resource management. Over time, it will help us onboard new additions to the portfolio for multi-airport governance and enable a sustained impact on topline.” AAHL has embarked on a digital transformation journey to enhance its operational efficiency, customer experience and sustainability. It is investing in cutting-edge technologies, including AI, IoT, Computer Vision, Robotics and Digital Twins to create a future-ready, next-generation airport ecosystem that multiplies value across all facets of operations. Investment in digitalisation is a strategic and visionary move that will help AAHL gain a competitive edge, improve its performance and create value for its customers and stakeholders. Digitalisation of airports will also create seamless passenger journeys as more features are added to the app.

    Civil Aviation

    SriLankan Airlines and flydubai Announce New Interline Agreement

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    Colombo,9th September 2024: SriLankan Airlines and flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, have announced an interline agreement commencing from 09 September 2024, introducing more travel opportunities between Sri Lanka, the UAE and beyond on select routes on the carriers’ networks. This interline agreement will enable passengers travelling with SriLankan Airlines to seamlessly connect via Dubai’s aviation hub to more than 30 destinations that flydubai operates to in Africa, Central Asia, Central and Southeast Europe as well as the Middle East. This includes unique holiday destinations such as Bucharest, Istanbul, Krakow, Mombasa, Naples, Sofia, Tashkent and Zanzibar. In addition, the interline will offer flydubai passengers’ access to 16 destinations on SriLankan’s robust network spanning Southern and East Asia, the Middle East and Australia – including Melbourne, Seoul, Singapore and Tokyo. “We are excited to partner with flydubai to provide our passengers seamless connections and greater convenience. This partnership reinforces our strategy to broaden our network and global reach, presenting customers with more travel choices and flexibility. We look forward to collaborating with flydubai and welcoming their passengers aboard our flights to experience an authentic SriLankan journey,” said Richard Nuttall, Chief Executive Officer of SriLankan Airlines. SriLankan Airlines and flydubai are committed to delivering convenient and reliable travel options for their valued customers. Passengers can expect the signature hospitality and onboard services that both airlines are renowned for when travelling with SriLankan and flydubai. Commenting on the interline agreement, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said, “we’re excited about our new interline agreement with SriLankan Airlines that will further strengthen trade and tourism relations between the UAE and Sri Lanka. Since the start of operations to Sri Lanka in 2010, we have seen consistent demand for travel between our two countries over the years. Dubai remains an important thriving aviation hub and through these interline agreements, this will open up new horizons for our passengers, giving them more options to explore the world with ease.” The new agreement will offer passengers the convenience of single-ticket itineraries, through-checked baggage and coordinated flight schedules for travellers.

    FOREWORD

    Dear Readers,

     

    Welcome to the latest edition of Aviation World. This is an incredibly significant issue for us, perfectly timed to align with several prominent aviation events unfolding across the globe.

     

    Chief among them is the Farnborough International Airshow, taking place from July 20th to 24th, 2026, in Hampshire, United Kingdom. Ranked as one of the world’s premier events for aviation, aerospace, and defense, this year’s airshow arrives at a crucial moment. Against a backdrop of geopolitical turbulence, Farnborough provides an invaluable platform to engage with global leaders and gain firsthand perspectives on the future of the industry. Inside, you will find our comprehensive curtain-raiser report focusing on the show’s core themes, as well as the highly anticipated static and aerobatic aircraft displays.

     

    On our front cover, we are proud to feature Capt. Vaibhav Goutham Suresh, Director of the School of Aviation, Logistics and Tourism Management (SALTM) at Galgotias University. In an exclusive interview, Capt. Suresh highlights how SALTM bridges the gap between academia and the runway, delivering a comprehensive curriculum that ensures graduates are industry-ready from day one. Complementing this, our special feature on SALTM dives deeper into how the institution maintains world-class academic standards and a cutting-edge learning environment.

     

    We are also privileged to bring you exclusive insights from a stellar lineup of industry trailblazers in this edition, including:

    • Robin Glover-Faure, Chief Customer Officer of Acron Aviation
    • Karim Makhlouf, CCO of Royal Jordanian Airlines
    • Pallavi Joshi & Vimal Priya, the leadership powerhouse behind AirFleet Managers &Aviatrics Global
    • Wg. Cdr. Prem Kumar Garg (Retd.), CEO of IndiaOne Air

    Each shares a detailed perspective on driving innovation, navigating current market dynamics, and establishing progressive frontiers within their respective sectors.

     

    Beyond these highlights, this issue is packed with curated features and analytical pieces designed to keep you informed and inspired.

     

    Finally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed advertisers and partners. Your unwavering support empowers us in our ongoing endeavor to make Aviation World a truly world-class publication with global reach and recognition.

     

    Happy Reading!

     

    The Editorial Team

     

    Aviation World

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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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