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    Civil Aviation

    Centrum Air’s launches direct flight between Delhi–Tashkent

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    New Delhi,3rd October 2025: Centrum Air, Uzbekistan’s largest private airline, today commenced its direct passenger flights between Delhi (DEL) and Tashkent (TAS), further strengthening connectivity and opening new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Uzbekistan. The service will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Fridays, offering travelers affordable fares, convenient schedules, and a comfortable journey onboard Centrum Air’s modern fleet. The inaugural flight ceremony was held at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DIAL) in association with GMR, customs authorities, and senior airport officials. Adil Mirza, Centrum Air, said,“Today marks a proud moment for Centrum Air as we see our Delhi–Tashkent service take flight. India has always been a priority market for us. With this launch, we are not just adding a route — we are building a bridge that connects cultures, businesses, and people. We are confident that this direct link will inspire more travelers from India to experience Uzbekistan’s hospitality and heritage.” Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director & CEO of Aeroprime Group, added,”The inaugural Delhi–Tashkent flight reflects the strength of our partnership with Centrum Air. As Centrum Air’s Exclusive GSA in India, we are proud to support this service and ensure its success. This is more than a new route — it’s an opportunity to strengthen ties and bring the people of India and Uzbekistan closer together.” Centrum was officially launched in Jan 2023 and has 13 aircraft till date operating into 35 destinations, with plans to expand its fleet size up to 22 aircraft by end of 2026. The current fleet of Centrum includes Airbus A320 & A321 neo,with further plans to upgrade with A330 & A320 neo aircraft types. The GSA for Centrum Air is Aeroprime Group.

    Events

    World Aviation Festival announces finalists for 2025 start-up competition

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    Lisbon,October 3rd 2025: World Aviation Festival (WAF), one of the industry’s leading global gatherings for airlines, airports, and travel technology, has announced the five finalists for its highly anticipated Start-up Pitch Competition. The live final will take place on 7th October at 15:50 on the main stage at the FIL Lisbon conference centre. The competition, a highlight of the Festival’s Start-up Village initiative, provides a platform for early-stage disruptors to showcase their innovations to more than 4,500 senior executives from across aviation and travel. Each finalist will pitch their solution to a panel of industry leaders and investors, competing for recognition as one of aviation’s most promising new ventures. The 2025 finalists are: • Arcube – Developing modular, sustainable infrastructure solutions designed to help airports and airlines scale operations more efficiently • Ganiga.ai – Harnessing artificial intelligence to optimise airline operations, from predictive maintenance to smarter scheduling • Acai Travel – A next-generation travel platform focused on personalised, sustainable trip planning and seamless booking experiences • Modifly – Enabling dynamic, customer-driven ticketing and ancillary services, giving travellers more flexibility while boosting airline revenues • FlightMinds – Leveraging data and machine learning to improve flight planning, reduce fuel burn, and support decarbonisation goals   Now in its latest edition, the Start-up Pitch Competition has become a launchpad for aviation’s most exciting innovators. Last year’s finalists included firms tackling accessibility, blockchain, and AI-driven pricing. Judged by a panel of industry executives, the competition highlights businesses with the potential to shake-up the aviation industry. The judging panel for 2025 includes: • Suzanna Chiu, Head of Amadeus Ventures, Amadeus • Martin Beitia, Head of Innovation, Design and Research, Iberia • Dee Waddell, Global Managing Director, Travel and Transportation Industries, IBM • Cara Whitehill, Operating Partner, Thayer Investment Partners • Nik Munaretto, Managing Director, Austria, Plug and Play Ventures • Tedd Evers, Global Partner Leader, Travel & Hospitality, AWS • Irra Ariella Khi, Chief Executive Officer, Zamna “Innovation drives everything we do at the Festival, and the Start-up Village is where the industry’s future takes shape,” said Daniel Boyle, General Manager of Transport at WAF organiser Terrapinn. “This year’s finalists are tackling some of aviation’s most pressing challenges, from sustainability to passenger experience, and we’re excited to see them pitch live in Lisbon.” The World Aviation Festival runs from 7th-9th October 2025 at FIL Lisbon, bringing together global leaders from airlines, airports, and travel technology providers for three days of keynotes, panels, and networking. (Aviation World is the official media partner of World Aviation Festival 2025.)

    People

    IFS Appoints Mihita Podobnik as Chief People Officer

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    Delhi, October 1st ,2025 IFS, the provider of Industrial AI software, has announced the appointment of Mihita Podobnik as Chief People Officer, succeeding Debra McCowan, who is stepping down from her role as Chief Human Resources Officer. Podobnik was most recently IFS Chief of Staff, where she partnered closely with the executive team to lead strategic initiatives and drive transformation across the business. Her leadership skills and ability to connect strategy with execution will be central to advancing IFS’s people-first agenda. “Mihita is highly respected across IFS and I’m delighted to welcome her into this role,” said Mark Moffat, CEO of IFS. “Her leadership, strategic mindset, and deep connection to our people make her the ideal person to take our high-performance agenda forward at pace. I look forward to seeing her impact as we continue to scale globally. “Debra has played a key role in shaping IFS’s people strategy. Her leadership has left a lasting impact, and I wish her every success in her next chapter.” Commenting on her appointment, Mihita Podobnik said: “I’m honored to take on the role of Chief People Officer at such a pivotal time for IFS. As AI disruption and innovation accelerate, talent is the key enabler of our strategy. By fostering a culture where people can thrive, we will execute on our business priorities, accelerate growth, and strengthen our position as the global Industrial AI leader.”

    Business Aviation

    Gulfstream Introduces the All-New Gulfstream G300

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    Savannah, GA, October 3, 2025: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. had announced the all-new, super-midsize Gulfstream G300 as the latest aircraft to join its next-generation fleet. The aircraft will replace the Gulfstream G280 and feature signature Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows as well as an all-new Harmony Flight Deck, which includes next-generation avionics to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Gulfstream announced the G300 at its exclusive Discover the Difference customer event in Savannah. During the event, Gulfstream President Mark Burns revealed a full-scale mock-up of the G300 and showed photos of the first aircraft in production. “Fueled by a decade of investment and our future-forward approach, the Gulfstream next-generation fleet offers our customers the most innovative family of aircraft,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We know how important the super-midsize cabin segment is to our customers, so building on the highly successful G280 program, the G300 will reenergize the category with its heightened technology and safety enhancements, alongside the legendary comfort and styling of a Gulfstream.” The G300 combines trans-Atlantic range with short-field agility, covering 3,600 nautical miles/6,667 kilometers at Mach 0.80 or 3,000 nm/5,556 km at Mach 0.84. The aircraft features a maximum cruise altitude of 45,000 feet/13,716 meters and the lowest cabin altitude in its class at 4,800 ft/1,463 m when flying at 41,000 ft/12,497 m. This comes alongside 100% fresh air, a plasma ionization air purification system and 10 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows. With the longest cabin in its class and two living areas, the G300 accommodates up to 10 passengers. The G300 Harmony Flight Deck includes six touch screens, paired with Phase-of-Flight intelligence, bringing intuitive technology to pilots. A Synthetic Vision-Primary Flight Display depicts runways and terrain in 3D imagery to boost pilot situational awareness, and Gulfstream’s award-winning Predictive Landing Performance System dynamically displays the runway stopping point in real time. With an ideal combination of size, advanced avionics and aerodynamic design, the G300 is primed for fast, efficient flight with its high-thrust Honeywell engines, coupled with the clean, swept Gulfstream wing to support fuel-efficiency. “The G300 program is making great progress and the vision for this aircraft is well on its way to becoming a reality for our customers as they look for an airplane that will exceed their expectations in the super- midsize class,” added Burns. Gulfstream has already accomplished nearly 22,000 hours of testing at its state-of-the-art lab facilities, which includes an Integration Test Facility (ITF) with Iron Bird capability. The facility completed its “first flight” last month. It has also completed nearly 2,000 ground test hours on the first aircraft as well as started manufacturing two additional test aircraft.

    Recent News

    India re-elected to ICAO Council with stronger mandate

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    Montreal, 3rd October 2025: India has been re-elected to the Part II of the Council of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized UN agency. Part II comprises of States making the largest contribution to the provision of facilities for international civil air navigation. The election took place on 27 September 2025, during the 42nd ICAO Assembly Session, being held in Montreal. India secured more votes as compared to the 2022 elections, reflecting the growing confidence among Member States in its leadership and commitment to international civil aviation. Earlier, on 2nd September 2025, the Ministry of Civil Aviation hosted a reception for Ambassadors and High Commissioners in New Delhi ahead of the 42nd ICAO assembly session. On this occasion, Minister for Civil Aviation Shri Rammohan Naidu had sought the support of Member States for India’s candidature for re-election for the 2025-2028 term. Supporting this effort, the Ministry of External Affairs, through continuous engagement with other member states, reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to the objectives of ICAO. The MEA’s diplomatic outreach strengthened India’s campaign for the ICAO Council elections. The Representative of India (ROI) at ICAO headquarters also actively canvassed support for India’s re-election. During his visit to Montreal, Minister Shri Rammohan Naidu also held bilateral meetings with other Member States and engaged with global aviation industry stakeholders. As one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, India has attracted keen interest from global players in areas such as aircraft component manufacturing, MRO and skill development. A founding member of ICAO since 1944, India has maintained an uninterrupted presence on the Council for 81 years. It continues to play a pivotal role in advancing ICAO’s mission to promote safe, secure, sustainable, harmonized, and gender-inclusive international civil aviation. India is actively engaged in policy development, regulatory frameworks, and international aviation standards. The ICAO Assembly, convened every three years, is the organization’s sovereign body, comprising all 193 signatory States to the Chicago Convention. The 36-member ICAO Council, elected by the 193 Member States during the Assembly, serves as the governing body for a three-year term. For the 2025–2028 term, India reaffirms its commitment to: Strengthening international aviation safety, security, and sustainability Promoting equitable growth in air connectivity Advancing technology and innovation Supporting ICAO’s, No Country Left Behind initiative

    Civil Aviation

    Maldivian Appoints AVIAREPS as GSA for South India

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    New Delhi,October 1st, 2025: Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has appointed AVIAREPS India as its official General Sales Agent (GSA) for South India, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian market and strengthening trade partnerships in a region that serves as a major gateway to the Maldives. Until August 2025, the Maldives welcomed 85,306 Indian visitors, a 4.7% increase year-on-year. India now ranks 6th among source markets with a 5.7% share of total arrivals, reaffirming its strategic significance. With projections indicating a further 20% growth in 2025, Maldivian is poised to capture a larger share of the outbound segment, particularly from South India where proximity and connectivity make the Maldives one of the most convenient international getaways. According to the airline’s 2025 schedule, Maldivian has been operating: • Kochi–Malé (COK–MLE): 4 weekly services on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. • Trivandrum–Malé (TRV–MLE): 4 weekly services on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays With this schedule, Maldivian ensures convenient departures and arrivals for Indian travellers, while also offering seamless domestic inter-island connections—the largest in the Maldives—allowing visitors to access luxury resorts, adventure hubs, cultural experiences, and wellness retreats across the archipelago. “We are greatly encouraged by the growing interest from the Indian market, and the event in South India further reaffirmed the importance of this region for us,” said Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Maldivian. “With the support of AVIAREPS, we look forward to building stronger trade partnerships and welcoming even more Indian travellers to experience the Maldives and its diverse offerings.” Marcelo Kaiser, COO Aviation at AVIAREPS: “We are proud to partner with Maldivian as their General Sales Agent in South India, one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets in the region. India is not only a key source market for the Maldives but also one with immense potential for sustained growth. With our strong local expertise and deep trade relationships, AVIAREPS will ensure Maldivian strengthens its visibility, expands its reach, and provides Indian travelers with seamless access to the Maldives.”

    Events

    inter airport Europe 2025 highlights innovation ahead of showcase event

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    Munich, 3rd October 2025: inter airport Europe, (IAE25), the largest showcase for airport equipment technology, design and services taking place at Munich’s Messe in Germany during October 7-9, 2025, will spotlight a raft of cutting-edge innovations. Over 90 exhibitors will launch new products across key sectors—from terminal operations and airside services to data systems. Additionally, a host of exhibitors will be showcasing new products. Delegates can discover modern solutions for the airport and get real insights into the latest technologies and products – all under one roof. Smiths Detection, (Stand B5-1410), a global leader in threat detection and security screening technologies, will debut its next-generation hold baggage screening solution at inter airport Europe 2025. Developed to deliver new levels of efficiency in hold baggage screening, the solution signals a new era of sustainable and future-proof baggage security. ADB SAFEGATE, (Stand B5-1320) is set to launch an innovation in airside technology, further transforming airport operations with connected, data-driven insights. The launch will take place at the booth on 7th October at 3pm where attendees will get an exclusive first look at AI-driven technology specifically developed for airside operations. It sustainably elevates efficiency, safety, and performance to new levels. It sees, it learns, it guides – AI. Built for Airside. Parker Hannifin (Stand B6-320), the global leader in motion and control technologies, will be highlighting its cutting-edge fuelling technologies. (Parker’s product portfolio within the aviation hydrant system was expanded when it acquired Meggitt in 2022). Parker Meggitt will be spotlighting its new F145-3 Pressure Refuelling Nozzle. This nozzle is smaller and lighter than previous models, yet maintains robust durability and provides a positive, leak-tight connection to aircraft adapters during fuelling operations, enhancing safety and efficiency on the tarmac. Other companies launching products include: Trilo Smart Industries BV; ACO; Airsafe Airport Equipment Co., Ltd.; Construction and Asphalt; Delta RC AS; FAUDI Aviation GmbH; Imenco; Innovence Airport Systems GmbH; ITW GSE; JM Enterprise; MC Solutions and many more. You can view the full list here: http://bit.ly/42jNp0J Event Director, Syreeta Tranfield, comments: “We are excited that so many exhibitors across a range of airport segments have chosen to launch new products at the show. With a strong global turnout of pre-qualified delegates already confirmed, this is the perfect platform to spotlight new products, share bold ideas, and ignite industry-wide conversations. This event isn’t just a showcase, it’s where innovation takes place. It’s where cutting-edge technologies meet real-world applications, where startups and industry leaders converge to shape the future of aviation and airport operations. We look forward to hearing more about these groundbreaking launches next week and celebrating the creativity and progress driving our sector forward.”

    Civil Aviation

    Air India inaugurates non-stop flight to the Philippines

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    Gurugram, 01 OCTOBER 2025: Air India inaugurated India’s first non-stop flight to the Philippines. The inaugural flight to Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, departed from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport per schedule. H.E. Josel F. Ignacio, Ambassador of the Philippines to India, and Maria Cynthia P. Pelayo, Minister and Consul General, Embassy of the Philippines in India, joined P. Balaji, Group Head – Government, Risk, Compliance & Corporate Affairs, Air India, and other senior officials from the Embassy and Air India at Delhi airport for the inauguration of Air India’s new services to Manila. With the launch of services to Manila, Air India further strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia, now operating to eight destinations across seven countries in the region. In addition to providing non-stop connectivity to an increasing number of travellers between India and the Philippines, the new flights also open new connections for Filipino travellers to access Air India’s robust network across Europe and North America via Delhi. Air India’s flights between Delhi and Manila are operated by the airline’s Airbus A321LR aircraft, featuring a three-class cabin configuration to offer a choice of Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class to travellers. Air India is one of the few airlines in Southeast Asia to offer fully flat beds in Business Class in the single-aisle A321 aircraft. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said: “The launch of non-stop flights to Manila unlocks the immense potential for tourism to the Philippines, as Indian travellers, with their growing appetite for leisure travel and increasing spending power, seek new and exciting destinations. These new services will help showcase the Philippines’ vibrant culture and stunning landscapes to many Indian travellers, while also fostering greater trade and cultural exchange, strengthening the bonds between the two nations.”

    Airports

    Runways to Tomorrow: The High-Tech Future of Airports

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    Munich, 1st October 2025: Global air traffic is set to surge from 4.5 billion today to 22.3 billion passengers annually by 2053, according to ACI World. Meeting this growth won’t just require bigger terminals—it will demand smarter, multimodal, seamless airports built around efficiency, personalisation, and sustainability. “The airport of tomorrow should bring back the relaxed ease of pre-9/11 travel, while using biometrics and automation to make processes almost invisible,” says Max Groot of Momberger Airport Information. “Passengers can expect stress-free terminals, seamless movement and sustainability built into every stage of the journey.” Biometric technology is already reshaping the passenger journey. Earlier this year Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi was hailed as the first international airport to introduce biometric identification at nine touchpoints—from check-in to boarding. This eliminates the need for paper documents and slashes wait times. Baggage handling is also evolving. GPS-tracked luggage, off-site drop points, and automated systems will steadily become the norm reducing errors and anxiety for passengers. As SITA CEO David Lavorel notes, “Baggage must move with the same speed and reliability as passengers themselves.” Automation is redefining the terminal experience. From robotic assistants like Munich Airport’s JEEVES snackbot, which was trialled last year, to AI-powered kiosks and virtual concierges, the future terminal will be intelligent and intuitive. Augmented Reality (AR) tools will offer real-time navigation and translation via wearables or smartphones. Sustainability will also define the airport of tomorrow. Future terminals will double as “enerports”, generating their own solar power and hydrogen fuelling services. Meanwhile, rainwater harvesting, electric ground vehicles, biophilic design and even vertical gardens, such as those at Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, will create greener, more calming environments. Comfort will rival that of luxury hotels. Passengers can expect the wider roll out of personalised services, quiet zones, spa areas, virtual reality (VR) games rooms and flexible seating arrangements. AI systems will manage disruptions in real-time, rebooking flights or redirecting passengers automatically. Looking ahead, airports will evolve into multimodal mobility hubs—integrating high-speed rail, autonomous vehicles, and vertiports for electric air taxis. These “aerotropoli” will become destinations in their own right, blending travel, commerce, leisure and innovation. Poland’s multimodal Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK), due to open in 2032, exemplifies this future. Passengers will check in online, upload documents, and use biometrics throughout their journey—no passports, no boarding passes, just a facial scan. “CPK is being designed from the outset to evolve naturally into the airport of the future – an environment where convenience, security and efficiency are seamlessly combined,” concludes Dariusz Kuś – CPK’s Board Member for Airport Investments. The airport of the future won’t just move people—it will move with them. Seamless, sustainable, and smart, the transformation has already begun. Celebrating 25 years of driving airport innovation and global partnerships, this year’s inter airport Europe (7-9 October in Munich) provides the ideal platform to showcase and shape the next era of aviation. (Top photo credit: peepo via Getty Images)

    Civil Aviation

    Akasa Air commences flights connecting Bengaluru and Phuket

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    Bengaluru,01 October 2025: Akasa Air has commenced daily direct flights connecting Bengaluru and Phuket, strengthening its footprint in Thailand. The inaugural flight on 01st October 2025 departed Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru at 0625 hrs IST arriving at Phuket International Airport at 1240hrs ICT. The route complements Akasa Air’s daily Mumbai–Phuket service inaugurated in September 2025, underscoring the airline’s commitment to expanding its presence in high-demand international destinations. In an event held at Kempegowda International Airport to flag off the maiden flight, a ceremonial lamp was lit in the presence of Anand Srinivasan, Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer, Akasa Air. The event was also graced by the leadership of Kempegowda International Airport, and a special boarding pass was presented to the first passenger on the inaugural flight. The daily non-stop flights from Bengaluru are scheduled at convenient timings, making travel seamless and well-suited for both business and leisure travellers. With Thailand’s visa-free entry for Indian passport holders, passengers can enjoy a simplified, hassle-free travel experience that further enhances accessibility to this popular destination.

    FOREWORD

    Dear Reader’s,

     

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

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

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

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

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

     

    Happy Reading!

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    NEWSLETTER

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

    Disclaimer

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