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    MRO

    SriLankan Engineering achieves CAAT Certification to provide MRO services for Thai carriers

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    New Delhi, 28th May 2025: SriLankan Engineering, the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) division of SriLankan Airlines, has been certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) as a Foreign Repair Station and Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO). This milestone certification paves the way for SriLankan Engineering to provide high-quality, cost-effective MRO solutions directly to Thai-registered operators and global leasing companies. The accreditation authorises SriLankan Engineering to offer a wide range of MRO services including base maintenance and heavy checks, as well as component repair and overhaul for Airbus A320 family aircraft; line maintenance for Airbus A320 family and A350 aircraft, as well as Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft; and non-destructive testing (NDT). This certification places SriLankan Engineering in a strong position to collaborate with Thai carriers and aircraft lessors by offering customised maintenance solutions aimed at enhancing operational performance, reducing Aircraft On Ground (AOG) time and optimising cost efficiency. SriLankan Engineering has been already certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, and many other National Aviation Authorities.

    Airports

    IndiGo and Adani Airports join hands to commence flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport

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    Mumbai, 28th May 2025: IndiGo and Adani Airport has joined hands and had announced the commencement of commercial flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). IndiGo will operate 18 daily departure flights from NMIA, making it the first airline to commit to operating from NMIA at the start of commercial operations. With 18 daily departures (36 Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) to over 15 cities from day one, with an increase to 79 daily departures (158 ATMs), including 14 international departures by November ’25. This will build up to over 100 daily departures (200 daily ATMs) by March ’26. IndiGo would further scale up operations to 140 daily departures (280 ATMs), including 30 international departures, by November ’26. Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo said,“IndiGo will be the inaugural airline to operate from NMIA and we couldn’t be more pleased to announce this. Our alliance signals towards achievement of complete operational readiness on both sides to take next steps. This expansion underscores our dedication to catering to the evolving needs of our aspirational travellers and further contributing to the growth of India’s booming aviation sector. The new flights from the brand-new NMIA will elevate the travel experience of our customers while enjoying affordable, on-time hassle-free services on our unparalleled network.” Commenting on the partnership, Arun Bansal, CEO, AAHL said, “We are delighted to announce IndiGo as the first airline partner to commence operations from NMIA. This partnership marks a major step towards confirming NMIA’s position as a transfer hub for domestic and international travellers. Together, we are poised to transform travel experience for millions of passengers, providing them both convenience and enhanced travel options. Our collaboration is set to strengthen NMIA’s role as an aviation gateway for the region and for travellers nationally and internationally.” NMIA is set to become India’s premier international aviation hub, offering state-of-the-art facilities, best in class passenger experience and seamless connectivity. In its initial phase, NMIA is set to handle 20 million passengers and 0.5 MMT of cargo per annum, with the capacity to serve 90 million passengers and 3.2 MMT of cargo per annum, once complete. Further, the launch of NMIA will create a dual-airport system for the financial capital of the country, enabling the de-congestion of Mumbai airport and enhancing the overall passenger experience. The augmented capacity offered by both the airports will offer unparalleled economic growth for the Mumbai region, and Maharashtra. This partnership is set to unlock new opportunities, foster collaboration, and strengthen NMIA’s role as a key enabler of India’s aviation future, focussed on meeting the evolving needs of travellers.

    People

    IATA appoints Sheldon Hee as Reg. VP APAC

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    Singapore, 27th May 2025: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the appointment of Sheldon Hee as Regional Vice President, Asia-Pacific, effective 1 June 2025.Based in Singapore, Hee will lead IATA in the Asia-Pacific, a region covering 39 countries and home to 53 IATA member airlines. Hee brings over 25 years of experience in the airline industry. He has held various management roles at Singapore Airlines in Singapore, Japan, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Prior to joining IATA, Hee was the airline’s Vice President for Partnerships and International Relations. “Having spent my professional life in an airline, I am humbled and privileged to continue contributing at an industry level by leading IATA’s activities in Asia-Pacific. The region is vast and diverse, with states at different stages of aviation development. I see significant opportunity for the stakeholders across the region to work together to achieve the region’s potential. Together with the well- established IATA team, I look forward to working with our member airlines, governments and partners across the region to support the safe, efficient, and sustainable growth of an industry that is a catalyst for economic and social development,” said Hee. The Asia-Pacific region is estimated to observe the fastest-growing passenger demand in the next 20 years. In 2024, it accounted for a third of global passenger traffic, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), and is projected to contribute more than half of global passenger traffic in the following two decades. Hee graduated from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University with a Bachelor of Applied Science and a Master of Science. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Oxford.

    Defence

    MOD approves Advanced MCA Programme Execution Model through industry partnership

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    Delhi, 28th May 2025: In a significant push towards enhancing India’s indigenous defence capabilities and fostering a robust domestic aerospace industrial ecosystem, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Programme Execution Model. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is set to execute the programme through Industry partnership. The Execution Model approach provides equal opportunities to both private and public sectors on competitive basis. They can bid either independently or as joint venture or as consortia. The entity/bidder should be an Indian company compliant with the laws and regulations of the country. This is an important step towards harnessing the indigenous expertise, capability and capacity to develop the AMCA prototype, which will be a major milestone towards Aatmanirbharta in the aerospace sector. ADA will shortly issue an Expression of Interest (EoI) for the AMCA Development Phase.

    Civil Aviation

    Air India unveils ‘There is an Air About India’ campaign

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    Gurugram, May 28, 2025: Air India has unveiled a new campaign,‘There is an Air About India’, a tribute to the new India that is bold, joyous, confident, and resoundingly vibrant.The campaign, which includes an OOH segment, print ads and a stunning digital film, captures the essence of a nation on the rise that Air India is proud to carry around the world. Conceptualised and produced in partnership with creative agency McCann, the digital film’s centrepiece is the rap-style soundtrack composed by renowned music director Sneha Khanwalkar, with vocals by emerging rap artist Aarya Jadhao. The film blends rhythmic storytelling, sharp transitions, and stunning visuals — capturing the soul of India, from bustling metros to remote heartlands. Each beat and verse weaves together the diverse cultural fabric of India — its colours, cuisines, communities, and ambitions. From traditional performances and spiritual motifs to modern skylines and global aspirations, the narrative culminates in a powerful refrain “There is an Air about India”and that Air India is proud to carry it around the world. After its return to the Tata group in 2022, Air India is in the middle of a five-year transformation– Vihaan.AI – to evolve into a world-class global airline that matches the aspirations of new India. India is one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world where the number of airports has doubled in the last decade and over 350 million passengers took to the skies last year. Air India is building a world-class airline that reflects the warmth, ambition, and spirit of India. For this, the airline has ordered 570 new aircraft, is undergoing a $400 million retrofit program for its legacy fleet and as part of building the Indian aviation ecosystem, it has set up South Asia’s largest aviation training academy and is setting up a state-of-the-art MRO facility and flying school. Air India is proud to be driving this transformation in Indian aviation. Link to the digital film: https://youtu.be/dXMsB_bY2Os?si=UdXFeP8UXJcqjiGS

    RCS

    FLY91 to start flights from Solapur, Maharashtra

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    Panaji, 27th May 2025: FLY91, Indian regional airline has announced that it will soon start direct flights between Goa and Solapur. At present, FLY91 connects eight destinations across the country, including four in Maharashtra, namely Pune, Jalgaon, Sindhudurg and Solapur. The bookings for the Goa–Solapur route is available now. Solapur is a key textile and industrial centre in south-western Maharashtra which serves as the gateway to five revered pilgrimage sites in the western Indian state. With FLY91’s direct flights from Goa, travellers and pilgrims can also  conveniently access the religious and cultural heritage destinations. “The launch of the Goa–Solapur route will highlight FLY91’s focus on improving connectivity to traditionally underserved destinations,” said Manoj Chacko, MD and CEO of FLY91. “Solapur is not only a key centre of industry but also a critical node in Maharashtra’s pilgrimage circuit. Our flights will make it easier for pilgrims, as well as business and leisure travellers alike, to move between these regions comfortably,” he further stated. He added,” We are thankful to the Based out of Manohar International Airport in Goa, FLY91 currently connects key regional centres such as Hyderabad and Pune with tier II and tier III destinations including Jalgaon, Sindhudurg and Goa.

    People

    Saab’s CEO Micael Johansson elected as President of ASD

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    United States, 26th May 2025: The Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), has today elected Saab CEO Micael Johansson as its new President and Chairman of the Board. Micael Johansson, who previously served as Vice Chairman of the ASD Board, was elected during the Association’s Board meeting and 2025 Convention in London. He was appointed for a 2-year term and will take office on 15 June, 2025. The appointment will not affect his role as President and CEO of Saab. As Europe faces unprecedented security challenges, Micael Johansson’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the continent’s security. He is committed to leading ASD in a way that promotes innovation, collaboration, sustainability and a shared vision for a secure Europe. “I am honoured to accept this position and will work to ensure that ASD plays a leading role in strengthening European capabilities and competitiveness. I am determined to further reinforce ASD as a driving force to secure the interests of our industry, whilst ensuring a strategic alignment across the European defence, security and aerospace sectors,” said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab. ASD is the leading voice for the European aerospace, security and defence industries and represents over 4,000 companies across 21 European countries. The organisation works closely with policymakers and institutions to foster a secure and innovative industry ecosystem in Europe.

    Training

    flydubai launches Ab Initio Pilot Training programme

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    Dubai, 26th May 2025: flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier had last week announced the launch of its Ab Initio Pilot Training programme, in partnership with international overseas flight training partners. This initiative comes as part of the airline’s workforce strategy to meet the growing demands of its expanding fleet and network over the next decade. flydubai operates fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft to more than 130 destinations. With more than 125 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and 30 Boeing 787s on order, this is a unique opportunity for aspiring pilots to join a Multi-Pilot License (MPL) programme, develop essential flying skills and launch a rewarding aviation career with flydubai. Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “Dubai has emerged as one of the global aviation hubs by not only connecting the world, but also attracting skilled talent who choose to make the city their home. We are proud to have played a key role in supporting Dubai’s aviation and economic vision and we will continue to invest in initiatives that grow our skilled workforce, who contribute to the success of this industry. This programme opens the door to homegrown Emirati talent, as well as residents and international applicants, who are passionate about aviation, to pursue a career in one of the most thriving hubs in the world.”

    Recent News

    SalamAir partners eith Booking.com to enhance passengers` travel experience

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    Oman, 26th May 2025: SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost airline, has partnered with Booking.com, to offer its passengers an enhanced travel experience by providing seamless access to a variety of accommodation and car rental options through SalamAir`s website. With the wide variety of hotels, resorts, car rental services, and more offered by Booking.com, SalamAir now offers one-stop channel to book an entire holiday experience, all in one place. Passengers can seamlessly plan their trip, from flights to accommodation and transportation, via the “Book a Hotel and Rent a Car” widgets on the SalamAir website. Steve Allen, Chief Commercial Officer at SalamAir, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: “At SalamAir, we continuously seek innovative ways to improve the travel experience for our passengers. Our partnership with Booking.com marks an additional step in providing a seamless and more enjoyable journey by offering a wide range of accommodation and transportation solutions alongside our various travel options. We believe this collaboration will add substantial value to our passengers and further enhance our commitment to affordability and convenience.” Mark van der Linden, VP Partnerships, at Booking.com said of the collaboration: “We are delighted to partner with SalamAir in bringing more travel solutions to its passengers. Our mission at Booking.com is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, and by working with SalamAir, we can ensure that more passengers will have access to diverse accommodation and car rental options that suit their travel needs.”

    Cargo, Recent News

    WestJet Cargo cxpands capacity to Japan with daily Dreamliner service

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    Calgary, AB,26th May, 2025: WestJet Cargo has announced the expansion of its trans-Pacific capacity with the launch of daily year-round service between Calgary and Tokyo Narita International Airport. Operated by WestJet’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, each flight offers 22 tons and 80 cubic meters of cargo capacity, providing consistent and reliable lift between North America and Asia. “Expanding our cargo capacity to Japan through daily Dreamliner service is a pivotal step forward for WestJet Cargo,” said Julius Mooney, Director of Commercial at WestJet Cargo. “This route enables Canadian exporters and global shippers to move high-value and time-sensitive goods with speed and reliability, while also strengthening Western Canada’s role as a key gateway to Asia.” This enhanced service supports strong bilateral trade. Japan is exporting industrial, automotive, electronic, high-tech, and manufacturing goods through WestJet Cargo’s growing network across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Europe. In return, Canadian perishables, meat, seafood, and general freight are reaching Japan faster and more efficiently than ever before. Bookings on this route are available through WestJet Cargo’s digital partners—CargoAi, WebCargo, and Cargo.one—ensuring seamless access and real-time management for freight forwarders and logistics providers worldwide. The cargo expansion complements WestJet’s daily year-round passenger service to Tokyo and its broadened codeshare with Japan Airlines, providing smooth onward connectivity to Osaka and Nagoya, and reinforcing Calgary’s growing role in global trade and logistics.

    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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