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Civil Aviation

Gulf Air extends travel dates for flights via Dammam

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Muharraq, Kingdom of Bahrain, 15 March 2026: Gulf Air has announced the extension of its temporary operations via King Fahad International Airport in Dammam (DMM), with flights for commercial booking now available to all passengers for travel until and including the 22nd of March 2026. Amid the temporary closure of Bahrain’s airspace, this initiative reaffirms Gulf Air’s commitment to maintaining connectivity to and from the Kingdom of Bahrain. • Dammam (DMM) – London Heathrow (LHR) – Dammam (DMM) • Dammam (DMM) – Mumbai (BOM) – Dammam (DMM) • Dammam (DMM) – Bangkok (BKK) – Dammam (DMM) To facilitate travel, Gulf Air will assist passengers travelling to and from the Kingdom of Bahrain with the issuance of Saudi transit visas. Alternatively, passengers traveling to Saudi Arabia should hold an eligible visa for entry into Saudi Arabia, arranged independently. Gulf Air will provide transportation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and King Fahad International Airport in Dammam for passengers holding confirmed bookings on these flights. Passengers are advised to ensure they hold a confirmed booking prior to proceeding to Dammam for departure. Flights to and from Bahrain International Airport remain temporarily suspended, and Gulf Air will resume regular scheduled services once the Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs confirms the safe reopening of the Kingdom’s airspace.

Civil Aviation

SriLankan Airlines enhances Australia connectivity with 14 weekly flights

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New Delhi,13th March 2026 SriLankan Airlines is set to increase its weekly service between Colombo and Melbourne to 10 flights, effective from 2 August 2026, with the addition of three more scheduled flights in response to growing demand and evolving market dynamics. The expansion reinforces the airline’s commitment to strengthening its footprint in Australia, recently identified as one of the fastest-growing inbound tourism markets to Sri Lanka, driven by leisure travel and a rising volume of visits by family and friends. The newly added flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, departing Colombo as UL608 at 14:10 hrs and arriving in Melbourne at 04:30 hrs the following day. The return service, UL609, will depart Melbourne every Wednesday, Friday and Monday at 06:00 hrs, arriving in Colombo at 12:15 hrs the same day, offering convenient onward connections across the airline’s network. The schedule is designed to maximise time spent in Sri Lanka for leisure travellers while enhancing connectivity for passengers travelling onwards to India via Colombo. In addition to the new frequencies, the airline will continue operating its daily service, UL604, departing Colombo at 00:20 hrs and arriving in Melbourne at 14:40 hrs, with the return service UL605 departing Melbourne at 16:10 hrs and arriving in Colombo at 22:25 hrs. These services provide seamless connectivity to key destinations across India and beyond. This addition of flights will provide Sri Lankans with better options when choosing flights between the two countries and enable them to plan their travel more conveniently. The increased frequency will be especially beneficial for the Sri Lankan diaspora living in Australia, providing greater flexibility to visit family and friends while maintaining strong connections with their homeland. Additionally, Sri Lankan students studying in Australia will find these enhanced services advantageous, as the expanded schedule accommodates academic calendars and holiday breaks, making it easier to travel home and return to their studies. Overall, improved connectivity supports both the expatriate community and students by offering more convenient and accessible travel options tailored to their needs.

Technology

LOT Polish Airlines unveils first Dreamliner with Wi-Fi on board

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Gurgaon, 12th March 2026: LOT Polish Airlines, a member of Star Alliance, unveiled the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner with fast Wi-Fi internet on board. This allows passengers to write and receive messages, surf the internet, stream content and much more during their long -haul flight. The Polish airline is working with American satellite communications provider Viasat to offer high-performance gate-to- gate connectivity. LOT Polish Airlines will equip two more Dreamliners with fast wireless internet by the end of April 2026. LOT Business Class passengers can use the new service free of charge, as well as Miles & More frequent flyers with Senator or HON Circle status. All other passengers can choose between two internet packages: “Chat” for messaging only (7 USD) and “Streaming” for all other applications (29 USD). Currently, the packages can only be purchased on the aircraft by credit card or with selected mobile payment services.

Business Aviation

Gulfstream appoints MJets as International Sales Representative for Thailand

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SAVANNAH, Ga., March 13, 2026: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced the appointment of MJets Limited as the authorized international sales representative (ISR) for Gulfstream business aircraft sales activities in Thailand. Under the agreement, MJets will be responsible for promoting and supporting Gulfstream with customers and prospects throughout the country. “As we continue to see business aviation grow throughout Asia, we are looking forward to leveraging MJets’ local expertise to provide customers and prospects the opportunity to experience the high quality and craftsmanship of Gulfstream aircraft firsthand,” said Michael Swift, group vice president of international sales, Gulfstream. “MJets is a well-respected member of the business aviation community and was an ideal partner choice given their strong customer relationships and shared commitment to excellence.” Gulfstream continues to see significant growth in Asia, particularly with its newest aircraft models, the Gulfstream G700 and G800, as operators look for a quality aircraft with the performance, comfort, speed and range required to travel to farther destinations faster. Several G700 aircraft have already been delivered to the region with the first G800 aircraft coming in 2026. This collaboration is guided by a shared vision among MJets’ founders. “As the official authorized sales representative in Thailand, we are honored to serve as a direct bridge between Thai owners and one of the most respected aircraft manufacturers in the world,” said William E. Heinecke. Echoing this, Kirit Shah complemented, “This appointment allows us to bring Gulfstream’s vision, performance and craftsmanship closer to our customers — supported by local expertise, long-term operational understanding and a shared standard of excellence.” MJets provides aircraft sales, management and fixed-based operator (FBO) services, including Thailand’s first business jet terminal at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport, to private aircraft owners.The company also operates the first Gulfstream G700 aircraft to deliver in Thailand.

Recent News

MoCA closely monitoring air travel situation in West Asia: Indian carriers resume flights to Riyadh

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Delhi, 12th March 2026: The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the West Asia region and its impact on air travel between India and countries in the region. Airlines are undertaking necessary operational adjustments in view of the prevailing conditions to ensure passenger safety and the orderly conduct of flight operations. In this context, flight operations by Indian carriers to/from Riyadh have resumed from 12 March 2026. On the first day of resumption, three services are being operated to Mumbai by Air India and IndiGo, and one service to Calicut by Air India Express, thereby restoring important air connectivity between India and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. During the period 28 February to 11 March 2026, a total of 1,50,457 air passengers travelled from the Gulf countries to India. Further, Indian carriers have scheduled 57 inbound flights on 12 March 2026 from various cities in the West Asia, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, Jeddah, Muscat, Ras Al Khaimah, Riyadh and Sharjah, subject to operational feasibility and prevailing conditions. The Ministry is maintaining close coordination with airlines and other concerned stakeholders to facilitate smooth passenger movement. Airfares are also being closely monitored to ensure that ticket prices remain reasonable and that there is no undue surge during this period. Passengers are advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding flight schedules and travel arrangements. The Ministry will continue to review the situation and provide further updates as necessary. Courtesy: PIB

Tourism

City of Dreams Sri Lanka and Cinnamon Hotels initiate direct Ahmedabad-Colombo flights in partnership with FitsAir

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Ahmedabad, March 13th, 2026: City of Dreams Sri Lanka, in collaboration with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and Walkers Tours, have partnered with FitsAir, on their direct scheduled passenger flights connecting Ahmedabad and Colombo, enhancing connectivity for Indian travellers to South Asia’s first fully integrated resort. FitsAir, Sri Lanka’s first private international airline, will operate the service, providing travellers with convenient connectivity and a comfortable travel experience between Ahmedabad and Colombo. The new Ahmedabad Colombo service, operated by FitsAir will run three times a week, catering to travellers from Gujarat, one of Sri Lanka’s key and fast-growing source markets from India. Located in the heart of Colombo, City of Dreams Sri Lanka is part of a broader vision to position the city as a vibrant hub for entertainment, leisure and lifestyle in the region encouraging travellers to experience Colombo as a destination. Guests can stay at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams or explore other Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in Colombo, including Cinnamon Grand, Cinnamon Lakeside and Cinnamon Red, offering a range of luxury, upscale and contemporary stays while discovering the city. The launch of the direct Ahmedabad–Colombo flights also introduces curated Cinnamon holiday packages designed specifically for Indian travellers, combining the City of Dreams Sri Lanka experience with multi-destination itineraries across the island, including cultural experiences in Kandy and beach stays at Cinnamon resorts. These offerings aim to deliver a seamless travel experience while showcasing Sri Lanka’s diverse leisure offerings. Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President, Colombo Hotels, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, said, “India continues to be one of our most important markets, and Gujarat in particular has shown strong interest in Colombo as a leisure destination. These dedicated flights provide a seamless gateway for travellers to experience the vibrant energy, entertainment, and hospitality that define City of Dreams Sri Lanka, while exploring curated Cinnamon holiday experiences across the island.” “Ahmedabad is one of India’s most vibrant commercial centres, and a city we’ve long wanted to bring into our network. Our overnight departure from Colombo arrives early in the morning, giving travellers a full day ahead. It also opens up smooth onward connections through Colombo across our ever-growing international network” said Ammar Kassim, Director, FitsAir. Flights are currently operating three times weekly between Ahmedabad and Colombo, with bookings available as part of specially curated Cinnamon travel packages.

Recent News

Star Air increases frequencies to Kolhapur and Belagavi sector

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Mumbai, 13th March 2026: Star Air, the regional airlines based out of Bengaluru has announced the expansion of its network with increased frequencies and new destinations planned across India. The airline will enhance connectivity to cities such as Kolhapur and Belagavi, further integrating them with its growing network. The airline is also increasing its weekly schedule from 455 to 550 flights this summer, responding to rising demand across its network. With nearly 3 million passengers carried since inception, Star Air continues to deliver on its mission of “Connecting Real India.” The airline has launched a daily direct service between Belagavi and Mumbai, further integrating North Karnataka and Central India with the nation’s financial capital. At the same time, Kolhapur’s connectivity is being enhanced with new and improved flights to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru, along with vital links to Kishangarh and Indore. Commenting on this expansion, Shilpa Bhatia, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer at Star Air, said, “Focusing on Kolhapur and Belagavi is central to our vision of strengthening our presence in India’s aviation sector. With every new route and every additional aircraft, we’re building bridges between businesses, families, and dreams. Our growing network is about empowering communities, unlocking economic potential, and showing that regional India is ready to soar. We remain deeply committed to reliability, comfort, and making air travel accessible to all.”

Top Stories

Deutsche Aircraft appoints Nils Heuer as Director of Global Sales

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Wessling, Germany, 12th March 2026: Deutsche Aircraft has appointed Nils Heuer as Director of Global Sales. In his new role, Nils will lead the global sales organisation for the civil regional aviation market and the multi-role/special mission segment, driving the company’s commercial expansion as the D328eco® advances toward key milestones. Deep Industry Expertise and Aerospace Engineering Background This appointment strengthens Deutsche Aircraft’s commercial organisation as the D328eco programme enters its industrialisation phase. Over the past three years, Nils has served as Director Sales for the D328eco, contributing to the establishment of Deutsche Aircraft in the aviation market through strong customer engagement and positioning the aircraft in both traditional regional airline environments and high demand multi-role applications. Before joining Deutsche Aircraft, Nils held various positions in sales, business development and strategy at Lufthansa Technik AG, with broad experience in market development, technical sales and aircraft lifecycle support. His background in aerospace engineering further underpins his technical understanding of the aircraft and mission specific operator requirements. Strategic Leadership to Accelerate the D328eco Roadmap “Nils’s appointment comes at a crucial point in our commercial roadmap, as the D328eco moves toward major certification and production milestones,” said Anastasija Visnakova, Chief Commercial Officer at Deutsche Aircraft. “His leadership will be instrumental as we further develop, expand, and internationalise Deutsche Aircraft’s global sales organisation. Nils combines strong technical expertise with deep customer insight and a proven ability to navigate complex campaigns. With his experience, we will strengthen our ability to serve both civil and multi-role operators and accelerate our commercial growth worldwide.” Nils Heuer added: “I’m honoured to take on this role at such a pivotal time for Deutsche Aircraft. I look forward to continue working with our customers around the world as we expand our presence across civil and special mission markets.” A Unified Approach to Global Market Entry Nils’s appointment is part of Deutsche Aircraft’s ongoing effort to streamline commercial functions and ensure closer alignment between sales, marketing, operator engagement and programme development. This integrated approach supports the company’s preparations for the D328eco’s entry into service and reinforces its ability to meet operator requirements across regional, governmental and multi-role applications. As the company moves into its next phase of commercial and operational maturity, Nils role will more commited to the programme.

Top Stories

Undisclosed Asia-Pacific carrier signs purchase agreement for three refurbished De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 aircraft

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Calgary, 12th March, 2026: De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (De Havilland Canada) has announced that an undisclosed Asia-Pacific carrier has signed a Purchase Agreement for three refurbished Dash 8-400 aircraft. The aircraft will undergo comprehensive refurbishment, ensuring the aircraft meet the highest standards of reliability, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency. These aircraft will support the airline’s network development and fleet strategy and join the airline’s existing fleet of Dash 8-400s with deliveries scheduled to take place through 2027 and 2028. This agreement highlights the demand for the Dash 8-400 aircraft across the Asia-Pacific region, where its blend of speed, efficiency, and flexibility gives airlines the ability to connect key urban hubs and regional destinations while maintaining strong operating performance. From high-frequency regional services to operations in challenging environments, De Havilland Canada aircraft get the job done. “We’re proud to support our customer’s continued fleet enhancement with these refurbished Dash 8-400s, which will offer a refreshed passenger experience and increased seating capacity thereby offering increased revenue opportunities” said Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President Sales and Marketing for De Havilland Canada. “The Dash 8-400 gives airlines the confidence to serve their communities with an aircraft that is fast, efficient, and dependable every day. Through our refurbished aircraft program, we’re able to deliver that capability with the reliability and support our customers count on.” Renowned for its turboprop efficiency and jet-like performance, the Dash 8-400’s short takeoff and landing performance enables operations at airports with shorter runways, high temperatures, and complex terrain, conditions frequently encountered across the Asia-Pacific region. De Havilland Canada’s refurbished aircraft program combines upgraded cabin interiors and modernized systems with the proven durability. The global Dash 8 fleet is supported by De Havilland Canada’s comprehensive customer support network, including parts services, technical support, and tailored maintenance solutions.

Recent News

Cabinet approves declaration of Madurai Airport as an International Airport

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Madurai, 12th March 2026: The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi today has approved declaration of Madurai Airport, Tamil Nadu, as an International Airport. Madurai Airport, located in the Temple City of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest airports in the State. It serves as a crucial gateway to Southern Tamil Nadu and plays a pivotal role in promoting tourism and pilgrimage, thereby contributing to the overall growth of the region. Elevating Madurai Airport to International Status would enhance regional connectivity, promote trade, and drive economic development in the region. The airport’s potential to attract international pilgrims and businesses aligns with the city’s historical prominence.

FOREWORD

Dear Reader’s,

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Happy Reading!

USEFUL LINK

NEWSLETTER

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

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

Disclaimer

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