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    Akasa Air Appoints Naarayan T V as its Chief Marketing Officer

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    Delhi,September 1, 2025: Akasa Air has announced the appointment of Naarayan T V as its Chief Marketing Officer, effective August 29, 2025. In this role, he will oversee the airline’s marketing, corporate communications & ESG, customer experience, eCommerce, customer loyalty, and partnerships functions. He will also serve as a member of Akasa’s Executive Committee. The appointment is aligned with Akasa Air’s accelerated growth journey as it strengthens its brand and customer proposition while progressing towards its vision of becoming one of the top 30 airlines globally by the turn of this decade. With over two decades of cross-industry experience spanning eCommerce, fintech, banking, D2C broking, and global consumer brands, Naarayan brings to Akasa Air a strong blend of strategic vision, digital-first expertise, and customer-centric leadership. He has consistently played a transformative role in shaping leading global and Indian brands, with a body of work that spans marketing communication, digital marketing, market research, product design, user experience, acquisition, sponsorships and IPs, brand building, creative strategy, content marketing, and large-scale product launch campaigns across ATL and BTL platforms. Commenting on the appointment, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air, said, “At Akasa Air, we are committed to building a world-class airline powered by our value-driven and service-oriented culture. As we continue to scale, the role of marketing and customer experience will be pivotal in strengthening the Akasa brand and deepening customer trust. Naarayan brings with him a global perspective, proven expertise in transforming brands, and the ability to blend creativity with data-driven insights. His leadership will play an instrumental role in shaping Akasa’s next phase of growth.” Naarayan T V, Chief Marketing Officer, Akasa Air, added, “I believe great marketing is a perfect blend of art and science, and I am deeply passionate about building customer-first brands and great teams. Akasa Air has already carved a distinct position in Indian aviation with its values-led approach and commitment to service. I am excited to join this journey and look forward to working with the team to create meaningful and memorable experiences for our customers”.

    Recent News

    DRDO successfully conducts maiden flight-tests of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System

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    Delhi,29th August 2025: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight-tests of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off the coast of Odisha at around 1230 hrs on August 23, 2025. IADWS is a multi-layered air defence system comprising all indigenous Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missiles (QRSAM), Advanced Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missiles and a high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW). Integrated operation of all the weapon system components is controlled by a Centralised Command and Control Centre developed by Defence Research & Development Laboratory being nodal laboratory of the programme. VSHORADS and DEW are developed by Research Centre Imarat & Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences respectively. During the flight-tests, three different targets including two high-speed fixed wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle targets and a multi-copter drone were simultaneously engaged and destroyed completely by the QRSAM, VSHORADS and High Energy Laser weapon system at different ranges and altitudes. All the weapon system components including the missile systems and drone detection & destruction system, weapon system command & control along with communication and radars, performed flawlessly which was confirmed by Range instruments deployed by Integrated Test Range, Chandipur to capture the flight data. The test was witnessed by senior scientists from DRDO and representatives from the Armed Forces. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh complimented DRDO, Armed forces and the Industry for successful development of IADWS. He stated that this unique flight-tests has established the multi-layered air-defence capability of the country and is going to strengthen area defence for important facilities against enemy aerial threats. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat has congratulated all teams involved in the successful flight-tests.

    Cargo

    ATLAS AIR and ETIHAD Cargo announce long-term partnership

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    White Plains, N.Y., August 28, 2025: Atlas Air, Inc., a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide, the global provider of outsourced aviation logistics,announced a new long-term partnership with Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways. Under the agreement, Atlas Air will provide Etihad Cargo with dedicated freighter capacity through the operation of a newly delivered Boeing 777 freighter. Beginning in August, the aircraft will initially serve routes connecting Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi and Madrid. The partnership comes at a time of growing demand for general air cargo, e-commerce, automotive, pharmaceuticals and perishable products across Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The 777F offers state-of-the-art, efficient capacity to support Etihad Cargo’s growth and customer product offering. The agreement reflects the strength of the longstanding relationship between Atlas Air and Etihad Cargo, dating back to 2012 when Atlas Air first began providing flight services over a multi-year period. “We are pleased to again partner with Etihad Cargo, one of the industry’s most respected carriers,” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “This partnership reflects our strong value proposition and the trust we’ve built with customers over time. We are pleased to tailor this long-term dedicated capacity solution to help Etihad capture growth opportunities. With our global scale and flexible, agile network, Atlas Air is enabling Etihad to expand their operations and serve their customers with confidence. With our industry-leading fleet of widebody freighters and deep operating expertise, Atlas Air is proud to be a trusted partner of choice, and we look forward to supporting Etihad’s continued success.” “Etihad Cargo’s expanded collaboration with Atlas Air represents a strategic step in scaling capacity and extending our global reach,” said Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer, Etihad Airways. “With Etihad Airways’ passenger fleet continuing to grow, it is essential that our freighter fleet expands in parallel to sustain this momentum and deliver end-to-end network connectivity. By aligning growth across both passenger and freighter operations, Etihad Cargo reinforces its ability to meet evolving customer demand, strengthen high-volume trade lanes and introduce greater flexibility across key markets. This additional capacity further enhances the reliability and agility of our services, ensuring the delivery of seamless and efficient cargo solutions worldwide.” The 777 freighter is the world’s largest, longest-range twin-engine freighter, with a payload of more than 100 tons. With its fuel efficiency and reliability, this aircraft supports Etihad Cargo’s commitment to delivering sustainable, high-quality cargo solutions across its global network.

    Recent News

    AIR INDIA EXPRESS ‘PAYDAY SALE

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    Delhi, 28-August 2025 : Air India Express has launched a limited-period ‘PayDay Sale’ across its domestic and international network. On domestic network, logged-in members can book Xpress Lite fares starting from Rs.1,299 (with zero check-in baggage) and Xpress Value fares from Rs.1349. Travellers can book their flights on these attractive fares through the airline’s website and mobile app. For international routes, the PayDay Sale fares start from Rs. 4,876 for Xpress Lite and Rs.5403 for Xpress Value. The discounted fares for both domestic and international flights are valid for bookings made until 1st September 2025. These fares are applicable for travel till 31st March 2026. The airline offers Zero Convenience Fees on Xpress Lite bookings on the airline’s mobile app. Xpress Lite fares also offer discounted check-in baggage rates – Rs.1,000 for 15 kg on domestic flights and Rs. 1,300 for 20 kg on international flights. The airline’s website offers fab deals for loyalty members, including 25% off Xpress Biz fares and 20% off Biz Upgrades on domestic bookings. Xpress Biz is the airline’s business class equivalent with best-in-class legroom with complimentary Gourmair Hot Meals, Xcess Check-in Baggage (25 Kg for DOM, 40 Kg for INT) and Xpress Ahead Priority Services. Biz seats are available on over 40 brand new Boeing 737-8 aircraft that Air India Express has recently inducted as part of its rapid expansion. Logged-in members also enjoy 20% off ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, standard and prime seat selection, Xpress Ahead priority services, 10 kg Xcess Check-In Baggage, 3 kg Xtra Carry-On Baggage, and earn upto 8% NeuCoins on every purchase. Additionally, the airline extends special offer like discounted fares and benefits on its website for students, senior citizens, members of the armed forces, and their dependents, ensuring a wide range of benefits for flyers. For added convenience, the website also offers flexible payment options, including EMI and Buy Now, Pay Later plans.

    MRO

    Mahindra Aerostructures to manufacture Airbus H125 helicopter fuselage

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    Bengaluru, August 28, 2025: Mahindra Aerostructures has been awarded a contract by Airbus Helicopters to manufacture and assemble the main fuselage of its H125 light single-engine helicopter — marking another major milestone for India’s ‘Make in India’ vision and further cementing Mahindra’s position as a trusted partner in the global aerospace supply chain. This contract is an addition to the already awarded contract to build the fuselage for another helicopter H130, which was announced earlier in 2025 and is progressing very well. The contract was announced in the presence of Wouter van Wersch, Executive Vice President International, Airbus, Jürgen Westermeier, President and Managing Director of Airbus in India and South Asia, and Arvind Mehra, Managing Director and CEO of MASPL. According to the contract, Mahindra Aerostructures will manufacture H125 main fuselage at its Bangaluru facility which is being expanded to accommodate this new awarded programme. Industrialisation of this significantly important contract will begin immediately, and the first fuselage delivery is targeted for 2027. This contract further fortifies Airbus’ association with Mahindra Aerostructures, who are already supplying a variety of components, sub-assemblies and complex aerostructures to Airbus for other global programmes. “This new contract with Mahindra Aerostructures is a testament to the strong capabilities of our partners in India and our shared vision for the country’s aerospace sector,” said Jürgen Westermeier, President and MD of Airbus in India and South Asia. “This significant H125 work package, along with our existing H130 partnership and the under-construction H125 FAL, demonstrates our confidence in India as a critical hub for global aerospace manufacturing. We are not just building helicopters in India; we are building an entire ecosystem that will contribute to developing and maturing the rotorcraft market in India.” Dr. Anish Shah, Group CEO & MD, Mahindra Group, said, “We are delighted to partner with Airbus on its ‘Make in India’ plans. This contract strengthens our long-term partnership and reflects Mahindra Group and Airbus’ role in building India’s aerospace ecosystem. At Mahindra, we are committed to supporting the Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and look forward to deepening our collaboration with Airbus.”

    Interviews

    “The idea is to transform the rotor wing aviation sector,” Abhinav Sahay, MD, Syandan Aviation

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    Delhi based Helicopter Company Syandan Aviation started a unique pilgrimage heli-services catering to services between Delhi- Khatu ShyamJi and Salasar Balaji. The six-seater helicopter Bell 407 will operate daily from Rohini Heliport, Delhi and will provide all inclusive services to the devotees. At the inauguration, Mr. Abhinav Sahay, MD, Syandan Aviation in a candid interview with Vishal Kashyap, Managing Editor, Aviation World shares his views on the the new services and the other operational details… Excerpts.. What services does Syandan Aviation have started in its helicopter operations? Syandan Aviation has launched a daily helicopter service between Delhi and Khatu ShyamJi and Salasar Balaji in Rajasthan.We would be completing this round trip in 6 hours including time for VIP darshan, travel and transport from helipad to temples, lunch and time for rest and rejuvenation. We are hoping that this time saving trip is going to provide an option to pilgrims and devotees from Delhi that they did not have previously. What is the tariff that you have kept for this particular round trip? Right now every seat is priced at Rs.95, 000/-. It is a full package which covers end to end costs including your transportation from helipads to your temples. The amenities that we are providing at Khatu ShyamJi for devotees after their more than hour long flight to freshen up and get ready for their temple darshan. The costs involve arranging VIP darshan, prasad, bhog and obviously the transport from helicopter. So all of that is included in this package. Everything is taken care of, once you step into our helicopter at Delhi then it is our responsibility to bring you back while keeping you safe, comfortable, well fed and spiritually aligned till we drop you back to Delhi. T To operate in this segment which type of helicopters you are using and also what’s the seat configuration? Currently the helicopter that will be used routinely for this service or it has been year marked for this service is Bell 407.There are 6 passenger seats available on Bell 407 which means that at least 6 seats will be available every day for this round trip. What will be the operational schedule? We are planning to operate this flight at least once a day and the time is likely to be 9.30 AM. Initially, we are trying to study the market and see how the market adapts to this service and depending upon the response that we get we can also consider introducing another aircraft for this service. It can be also modified as a customised charter service or like a shuttle for different passengers if required? Yes, it can also be a charter service. Since there are only 6 seats available on the daily flight, right now we want to take as many people as possible and give them the experience of flying on this. As VIP charters are a completely different equation and a different service that we offer and that service is available via a completely different port. Tell us a bit about the company Syandan Aviation? Syandan Aviation is a start-up found by professionals who have had legacy experience of aviation sector, have studied and participated in the Indian aviation sector for some time and they are now looking to contribute to the growth of the rotor wing aviation sector in particular. That is where Syandan Aviation comes in. We are looking to work not just alone but along with our partners such as Skypulse to, as the idea is to transform the rotor wing aviation sector. What’s the expansion plan of your company? We are focusing on three service deliveries or three business verticals. One, obviously is the religious pilgrimage network expansion, second is the air ambulance network setting up and third is the general regional connectivity through rotor wing helicopters.

    Events

    APATS 2026 to be held in Bangkok, Thailand

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    Singapore, August 26, 2025: As the APATS 2025 starts up here in Singapore, in his opening remarks, Andy Smith, CEO, Halldale Group whille addressing the global gathering in Bangkok, Thailand. The venue will be the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok, making a return to a city where it hosted APATS a decade ago. APATS 2026 will also mark its 22nd edition in the region, a milestone that reflects both the trust of the aviation community and the pace of change across Asia Pacific. Andy Smith highlighted the importance of hosting APATS 2026 in Bangkok. He Said, “ Why Bangkok, and why now? Asia Pacific is the growth engine of global aviation. IATA’s 2025 outlook shows Asia-Pacific passenger numbers growing at the fastest rate globally (≈7.9%), with momentum driven by strong economies and tourism-led recovery. Airport connectivity across the region has also surged, up 13% year-on-year, underscoring how quickly networks and markets are deepening. And looking ahead, major OEM forecasts point to sustained expansion, with Asia and the Middle East leading long-term traffic growth and the Asia-Pacific aircraft services market expected to more than double by 2043”. Under the ‘Thailand Vision’ program, major airport and transport net upgrades are set to position Thailand, and Bangkok, as a key Asia-Pacific aviation hub more than doubling passenger capacity by 2032-35. Together, these signals make a compelling case for putting APATS at the heart of the action.APATS has been part of Asia Pacific’s training story for over two decades. Moving to Bangkok in 2026 is about meeting the region where its growth is, and where its next set of questions will be asked and answered. I’m grateful to everyone who helped us get here, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and delegates, and I’m excited for what we’ll build together at QSNCC. (The portion of the content and master pix is sourced from the Halldale group website for news purpose only. )

    Training

    CPaT announces new partnership with Cambodia Airways

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    Houston, Texas, August 26, 2025: CPaT Global, the prominent provider of distance learning for the aviation industry has announced that they have been awarded a new contract with Cambodia Airways. CPaT will be providing Cambodia Airways with their Airbus A320 Aircraft Systems courses along with their robust library of General Subjects. “Partnering with Cambodia Airways marks an exciting expansion of CPaT’s presence in Southeast Asia,” said Capt. Greg Darrow, Vice President of Sales. “Our Airbus A320 and General Subjects training will equip their crews with the knowledge and consistency needed to support the airline’s continued growth.” Cambodia Airways is based out of Phon Penh, Cambodia.

    People

    Rossell Techsys appoints Senthil Balasubramanian as its CEO

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    Bengaluru, August 26, 2025: Rossell Techsys Ltd. has announced the appointment of Senthil Balasubramanian as its new Chief Executive Officer in India. He brings over three decades of global leadership experience across manufacturing operations. Prior to joining Rossell Techsys, he served as Group President – Manufacturing at Blue Star, where he oversaw operations across seven facilities and a workforce of more than 6,500 employees. His earlier leadership roles include Director of Operations at Collins Aerospace, where he led large-scale operations across engineering, supply chain, and quality, and Country General Manager at ITT Interconnect Solutions, managing programs for marquee aerospace clients including Boeing and Airbus. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Global Operations at Ultra Maritime, overseeing multi-facility production programs supporting the U.S. Navy. On his appointment,Rishab Gupta, Managing Director of Rossell Techsys Ltd., said,“Senthil’s extensive experience in manufacturing and customer-focused delivery aligns strongly with our vision. His leadership will support our ongoing efforts to strengthen capabilities and explore newer industry sectors and markets.” Balasubramanian added,“Rossell Techsys has earned its reputation through consistent quality and engineering excellence. I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued evolution as it explores opportunities across sectors and geographies, including in the domestic market.”

    Defence

    Saab receives Gripen E/F order for Thailand

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    Bangkok, August 26, 2025: Saab has signed a contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and received an order for four Gripen E/F fighter aircraft from FMV for the Kingdom of Thailand. The order value is approximately SEK 5.3 billion and deliveries will take place 2025-2030. The contract between Saab and FMV includes three Gripen E and one Gripen F aircraft as well as associated equipment, support and training. Saab has also signed a contract with the Royal Thai Air Force to deliver a long-term offset package to Thailand as part of the fighter acquisition plan. This will include significant transfer of defence technology and industrial cooperation with Thailand together with new investments across many sectors of the national economy. “We welcome Thailand as the latest customer for Gripen E/F. Thailand is already a well-established Gripen user and familiar with the strengths that Gripen brings to the Royal Thai Armed Forces. Thailand has chosen the most modern fighter on the market with which to build its next generation of strategic, independent capabilities,” says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab. The Royal Thai Air Force currently operates one squadron of Gripen C/D multi-role fighters. Once in operation, the new Gripen E/F fighters will operate alongside Thailand’s existing Gripen fighter force.

    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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