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Events

DefTech Bharat 2026: Powering India’s Full-Spectrum Defence Technology Showcase

DefTech Bharat 2026, scheduled for 20-22 May 2026 at the KTPO Bangalore, is set to become India’s most comprehensive exhibition dedicated to defence and advanced technology ecosystems. As the only event of its kind in the country, the show brings together the full spectrum of stakeholders—spanning public sector undertakings, private industry leaders, start-ups, research institutions, and global technology providers—under one roof. The doors are scheduled to open on the 20th of May, 2026. The three-day exhibition is expected to host over 200 exhibitors and attract more than 15,000 business visitors, industry professionals, policymakers, and defence personnel. The event will showcase cutting-edge technologies across domains such as defence electronics, AI-driven systems, cybersecurity, aerospace engineering, unmanned platforms, communication systems, and advanced manufacturing. The exhibition floor will reflect the rapidly evolving landscape of indigenous innovation and international collaboration. A strong highlight of DefTech Bharat 2026 is the significant participation from global companies representing countries including the UK, France, Australia, Germany, Singapore, Russia, Italy, Japan, and China. This international presence underscores India’s growing importance as a strategic technology and defence manufacturing hub, while also fostering cross-border partnerships, technology transfers, and joint ventures. The exhibition will also feature an extensive conference program covering diverse and future-oriented technology topics. Thought leaders, domain experts, and senior industry executives will engage in discussions on emerging trends such as AI-native defence systems, next-generation communication networks, electronic warfare, and smart manufacturing. These knowledge sessions are designed to complement the exhibition by offering deep insights and facilitating meaningful dialogue among stakeholders. Strategically located in Bengaluru, the venue offers excellent connectivity and ease of access. The KTPO complex is conveniently accessible from the airport and is well connected through the city’s expanding metro rail network, ensuring seamless travel for both domestic and international visitors. DefTech Bharat 2026 stands as a powerful platform for showcasing innovation, enabling business networking, and driving the future of India’s defence and technology sectors. With its comprehensive coverage of the entire ecosystem, strong international participation, and focus on knowledge exchange, the event is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of technological advancement in India and beyond. For more information: Visit the website: www.deftechbharat.com Email: def@newdelhimedia Mob: +91 9810976101

2026

CSMIA Recognised with CII’s Highest Platinum Rating for Zero Waste to Landfill

Mumbai, 11 May 2026: CSMIA, Mumbai has been honoured with the Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL) Platinum – Class I Rating by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). With this rating,Mumbai Int.Airport joins the ranks of Indian airports handling over 50 million passengers annually that have earned this certification. This recognition highlights the airport’s sustainable waste management, with over 99 per cent of waste diverted from landfills through integrated, airport-wide systems. The ZWL assessment verified that CSMIA has implemented waste management practices through efficient segregation, recycling, and recovery mechanisms, with key waste streams such as plastic waste, MSW wet and dry, and other recyclables successfully diverted from landfills. Conducted in FY2025-26, the assessment aligns with ZWL’s objective of maximising waste diversion while minimising overall generation. Primary waste sources at the airport includes food, plastic, paper, and operational waste.

2026, MRO

Embraer names India’s Bharat Forge as new supplier

New Delhi,May 11, 2026: Embraer and Bharat Forge Limited has signed a contract for the supply of forged raw materials. This agreement represents Embraer’s first forged raw material supply contract with an Indian supplier and marks an important milestone in strengthening the partnership between the two companies. The agreement supports Embraer’s global supply chain with high quality forged products and reinforces the company’s strategy of expanding and diversifying its supplier base, while fostering industrial capabilities in key growth markets. “In line with our supply chain diversification strategy, we view India as a major opportunity. This contract reinforces our plans to create a more resilient and competitive supply chain, as well as our commitment to developing the Indian aerospace industry,” said Roberto Chaves, Executive Vice President of Global Procurement and Supply Chain at Embraer. Amit B Kalyani, Vice Chairman & Joint MD, Bharat Forge Limited commented, “The fact that BFL is the first Indian supplier of forged components for Embraer is a proud moment and a testament to the capabilities we have built in the aerospace business, and we thank Embraer for the trust they have placed in BFL. We look forward to growing and adding value to our association with Embraer in the coming years. These contracts will enable us to create scale for critical structural components, complementing the scale built in the aeroengine components space.” This first supply contract signed with an Indian company reflects Embraer’s commitment to advancing the aerospace ecosystem in India and creating long term value across the entire supply chain. It also comes at a time when Embraer is steadily expanding its presence in the country and maintaining active dialogue with local industry leaders and government stakeholders.

2026

Mumbai Int. Airport completes runway maintenance

Mumbai, 8th May 2026: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), operated by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), has completed its annual runway maintenance programme, reinforcing operational readiness ahead of the monsoon season. Conducted over a six-hour window from 11:00 hours to 17:00 hours, the exercise covered thorough inspection of Runway 09/27 (3448 metres) and Runway 14/32 (2871 metres), both of which are now restored and fully operational. Planned well in advance, the operation was supported by six months of stakeholder coordination, enabling airlines to realign flight schedules in advance. For an airport handling over 950 air traffic movements (ATMs) daily, such preventive maintenance is critical. It ensures runway infrastructure consistently meets the highest safety and operational standards, strengthens drainage systems and safeguards operations during the high-intensity monsoon period. The scope of work included pavement maintenance, electrical checks across Airfield Ground Lighting systems and substations, rubber removal, surface markings and large-scale drain cleaning. Technical teams also inspected runway intersections, over 3,000 runway lights and critical cable networks supporting lighting, information technology and navigational systems to ensure uninterrupted performance.

Civil Aviation

Emirates unveils a striking new UAE flag livery on its A380

Dubai, 8th May 2026: Emirates unveiled a striking livery of a large UAE flag emblazoned across the fuselage of its iconic Airbus A380 aircraft, the world’s largest commercial passenger aircraft. The new livery on A6-EVG, is an extension of the airline’s iconic tail design, and a powerful tribute to the spirit, ambition and unity of the UAE. This initiative is part of Emirates’ ‘This Flag Will Always Fly’ campaign, responding to the nationwide initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. This initiative called on all citizens and residents to raise the UAE flag as a unifying symbol across society, a shared responsibility and pride in the nation’s strength and cohesion during recent challenges. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group said: “We’re proud to respond to HH Sheikh Mohammad’s call to raise the flag as a tribute to the UAE’s unity and strength. Since our inception, every Emirates aircraft has proudly carried the UAE flag wherever it flies. This new livery is our way of honouring a home that has given us so much, and a nation that stands as proof of what is possible when we collectively choose, every day, to reach higher. There is no greater stage for our flag than in the skies, and no greater privilege for Emirates than to fly it with pride.” The special livery features the colours of the UAE rendered in a bold, eye-catching 3D design that drapes elegantly across both sides of the aircraft. The moving canvas of national pride has already flown to New York and Brisbane and is scheduled to operate to more A380 destinations in the Emirates network, becoming visible from runways, skies and cities around the world. Plans are underway to apply the flag design to an Emirates Boeing 777, the next largest commercial airliner in the sky after the A380. The UAE flag is already a hallmark of every Emirates aircraft, painted across the tails of one of the world’s most recognisable fleets, and carrying the nation’s colours across continents, time zones and cultures each day. The special flag livery is one of many that have marked special national events and commemorations in the UAE. In 2017, the airline featured a customised decal of the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, with a bespoke livery for its 100th A380. The initiative marked the airline’s first initiative for the ‘Year of Zayed’, with 10 aircraft flying the special livery. That same year, the airline revealed the first of 40 aircraft carrying livery designs dedicated to Expo 2020 Dubai.

Top Stories

Akasa Air announces establishment of entity at GIFT City, Gandhinagar

Delhi,8th May 2026: At the India Aircraft Leasing and Financing Summit 2.0 in Gandhinagar, Akasa Air has announced the establishment of its entity, Akasa Air Leasing IFSC Private Limited (AALI), at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). This marks a strategic milestone in strengthening the airline’s aircraft financing and leasing capabilities. The AALI office at GIFT City will serve as a dedicated platform to support Akasa Air’s fleet expansion and long-term growth plans. It will play a pivotal role in advancing the airline’s aircraft financing strategy, enabling greater flexibility, cost efficiency, and enhanced access to global capital markets. Aligned with the Government of India’s vision to create a world-class ecosystem for aircraft leasing and financing through GIFT City, AALI, upon commencement of operations, will provide aircraft leasing and financing solutions to Akasa Air. Leveraging the benefits of the GIFT City framework, AALI is expected to finance a majority of the airline’s aircraft over time while strengthening onshore leasing capabilities. Priya Mehra, Chief of Governance & Strategic Acquisitions, Akasa Air, said, “The GIFT City entity is a key enabler of Akasa Air’s next phase of growth, strengthening our aircraft financing strategy and positioning us to access global capital more efficiently. It allows us to build deeper, long-term partnerships with leading lessors while supporting our fleet expansion at scale. We appreciate the enabling ecosystem created by the Government of India and remain committed to contributing to the evolution of GIFT city as global aviation financing hub. We also sincerely thank our leasing partners for their trust and collaboration as we take this important step.” This move strengthens Akasa Air’s long-term growth strategy by deepening global lessor partnerships and enhancing operational agility as it scales its fleet and network.

Technology

BIAL introduces integrated smartsystem to strengthen airside operational safety

Bengaluru, 6th May, 2026: Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has introduced an integrated Smart Airside Safety System at BLR Airport, marking a significant step forward in strengthening operational safety and control across critical airside zones. Designed to enhance safety at Cross Service Roads (CSRs), where aircraft and ground vehicle movements intersect, the system brings together AI‑based computer vision, intelligent automation and centralised control to support safe right-of-way management, improve operational efficiency and enable greater precision in airside operations. Cross Service Roads are among the most sensitive areas within airport operations, requiring precise and seamless coordination between aircraft and ground vehicles. Traditionally, right of way protection at these intersections relied on manual or semi manual inset light activation, creating dependencies on human intervention, increasing the risk of delays and limiting operational visibility. To address these challenges, the systemuses a real‑time situational intelligence framework that combines computer‑vision‑based detection of vehicle movement, contextual risk assessment, and automated signalling into a unified operating model. AI‑enabled cameras interpret activity at CSR intersections, identify potential right‑of‑way conflicts, detect non‑compliant movements, and validate zone clearance in real time. Based on these detections, the system triggers automated inset light activation to protect aircraft right‑of‑way and restores normal signalling once the intersection is confirmed clear.A centralised monitoring and analytics platform digitally logs all events, strengthening governance, compliance, and operational control. By embedding technology into operations, the system creates a data-driven separation layer between aircraft and ground vehicles, significantly reducing human error, especially during night and low-visibility conditions. Precision-led signal activation improves traffic flow, minimises unnecessary stoppage and enhances turnaround efficiency. It also establishes a scalable foundation for predictive safety analytics, enabling trend analysis, peak-hour optimisation, compliance mapping and risk forecasting to support continuous improvement and stronger airside governance.

Top Stories

Air Astana Group Q1 2026 results highlights agile reallocation of capacity driving revenue and traffic growth

Almaty,6th May 2026: Air Astana JSC,the airline group in Central Asia and the Caucasus regions by revenue and fleet size, announced its results for the first quarter ended 31 March 2026. At the end of Q1, the airlines group showed continued Revenue and traffic growth with improving load factor. The detailed summary includes: • Total revenue and other income increased 13.2% to USD 331.0 million (Q1 2025: USD 292.4 million). • EBITDAR decreased 19.6% to USD 48.2 million (Q1 2025: USD 59.9 million). EBITDAR margin 5.9pp lower to 14.6% (Q1 2025: 20.5%). • PAT decreased to USD -21.1 million (Q1 2025: USD -7.3 million). • ASK up 0.7% to 4.72 billion (Q1 2025: 4.69 billion). • RPK increased 3.0% to 3.94 billion (Q1 2025: 3.82 billion). • RASK-CASK differential negative for the quarter: • RASK increased 12.4% to USD 7.01¢ (Q1 2025: 6.23¢) • CASK increased 19.8% to USD 7.30¢ (Q1 2025: 6.09¢). • Group passengers carried remain stable at 1.95 million (Q1 2025: 2.01 million) with average load factor improving to 83.3% (Q1 2025: 81.5%). At the announcement of the result, the CEO of Air Astana Ibrahim Canliel said,“These are my first quarterly results as CEO of Air Astana and I am pleased to report that we have seen continued growth in revenue and in traffic despite the market environment and ongoing cost challenges. With a modest increase in traffic (RPK +3.0%) we have seen revenue up 13.2% for the quarter, and unit revenues (RASK) +12.4%. The first quarter of 2026 has posed challenges for the entire aviation industry but has also given Air Astana a further opportunity to demonstrate our agility and resilience in the face of aversion. Within 48 hours of the Gulf conflict starting, we had already begun reallocating our aircraft to support the rapidly evolving demand conditions which have become a new norm. I am immensely proud of my colleagues’ response: from flying repatriation flights, to providing the increased transit opportunities for our business and leisure passengers. Alongside this operational response, we continued to advance our long-term network strategy. In Q1 we launched our first flight to Shanghai, a city with a greater population than our home nation. This adds both additional destinations and frequencies to our existing routes into China and capitalises on the huge growth opportunity within our nearby megamarkets. We have also boosted capacity to India, Central Asia and the Caucasus providing a robust substitute for the Gulf destinations.”

2026

Mumbai Airport to undertake scheduled pre monsoon runway maintenance on 7 May

Mumbai, 6th May 2026: The Mumbai International Airport has announced that the airport has scheduled its annual pre-monsoon runway maintenance for 7 May 2026, between 1100 hrs and 1700 hrs. During this time, both the primary runway 09/27 and secondary runway 14/32 will be temporarily non-operational. As part of CSMIA’ s comprehensive monsoon contingency plan, stakeholder consultation was carried out six months in advance to notify airlines and other stakeholders, enabling airlines to adjust their flight schedules well ahead of time, enabling them to plan appropriately. This annual pre-monsoon maintenance is crucial for preserving the health and longevity of CSMIA’s expansive airside infrastructure, covering 1,033 acres. Specialists will inspect runway surfaces for wear and tear, addressing preventive measures to ensure safe landings and take-offs during the monsoon season. CSMIA also leverages modern machinery and exhaustive planning to monitor the entire maintenance process, ensuring timely execution within the designated six-hour window. CSMIA has meticulously coordinated this maintenance with multiple stakeholders, including airlines and aviation authorities, to enable a seamless experience for passengers.

2026, Cargo

AISATS and SAMSUNG SDS Sign MoU to Fast-Track Cargo Shipments from MMC Hub at NIA

Mumbai, 04th May 2026: Air India SATS Airport Services (AISATS) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Samsung Data Systems India for seamless cargo movement of Samsung products manufactured at its Noida facility through the AISATS Multi Modal Cargo Hub at Noida International Airport. The MMCH, spread across 87 acres, has an annual handling capacity of approx. 255,000 metric tonnes of cargo in phase 1 at its Integrated Cargo Terminal. The strategic proximity to Samsung’s manufacturing unit will enable faster cargo throughput, reduced transit time, and improved access to export markets driving profitability. As Noida stands as one of the world’s largest mobile manufacturing clusters producing smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices, this partnership will significantly enhance cargo efficiency. It provides a streamlined export pathway for high-value electronics shipments, further strengthening India’s position as a leading electronics exporter with Samsung SDS playing a pivotal role in logistics digital transformation. India’s electronics exports have increased to an all-time high, reaching approximately USD 47 billion in calendar year 2025, with a growth of nearly 37% over the previous year. Electronics goods are the third-largest export category in the country, driven largely by mobile phone shipments, which crossed USD 15 billion in FY24. With India’s electronics produce projected to reach USD 240 billion by 2030, such partnerships will play an important role in enabling scale, speed, and global competitiveness. The partnership further aligns with AISATS’ vision of building world class cargo infrastructure that supports India’s growing manufacturing and export industry. The Multi Modal Cargo Hub at Noida International Airport has been designed as an integrated logistics zone, combining air cargo operations with multimodal connectivity to ensure faster and more reliable cargo movement. Sharing his thoughts about the collaboration,Ramanathan Rajamani, CEO, AISATS, said, “India’s role as a global manufacturing hub, particularly in electronics, requires logistics infrastructure that is agile, reliable, and at par with international standards. Our partnership with SAMSUNG SDS is a significant step in enabling high-value, time-sensitive cargo to move seamlessly through a globally benchmarked cargo ecosystem. The multi-modal cargo hub combines advanced infrastructure with digital features to support faster turnaround, improved visibility, and superior supply chain efficiency. This collaboration reflects our commitment to strengthening India’s export competitiveness by creating logistics solutions that are both scalable and future-ready.” Namjin Moon, Vice President, SAMSUNG SDS MEIA said, “Our association with AISATS will enhance the speed and efficiency of our export supply chain. As India transforms into a global manufacturing hub, Samsung SDS is strategically positioned to bridge the nation’s key production centers with the global market through our advanced logistics expertise. With the new Multi Modal Cargo Hub, the streamlined and systematic movement of cargo ensures greater reliability and agility. It’s a significant win for our global customers and a major leap forward for India’s export ambitions. This collaboration reflects our commitment to strengthening India’s leadership in exports through logistics excellence.” The Multi Modal Cargo Hub at Noida International Airport has been designed as an integrated logistics platform, with a 30-acre Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT) and a 57-acre Integrated Warehousing and Logistics Zone (IWLZ). The facility caters to various sectors including pharmaceuticals, electronics, engineering goods, and e-commerce, and works with leading freight forwarders as well as major domestic and international airlines. XXX

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

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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