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Civil Aviation

Qazaq Air to resume regular flights from Samarkand to Turkistan

Samarkand,March 7th, 2025:. Kazakh airline QAZAQ AIR has announced the resumption of regular flights on the Turkistan-Samarkand route, effective from May 1, 2025.The services will be operated twice a week according to the following schedule (all local times): Thursdays: • Departure from Turkistan at 19:10, arrival in Samarkand at 20:00. • Departure from Samarkand at 21:00, arrival in Turkistan at 21:50. Sundays: • Departure from Turkistan at 10:10, arrival in Samarkand at 11:00. • Departure from Samarkand at 12:00, arrival in Turkistan at 13:00. The route also provides convenient connecting flights with QAZAQ AIR to Astana, with onward connecting flights departing from Turkistan for the capital of Kazakhstan in as little as 40 minutes. The news came soon after Samarkand International Airport announced a further expansion of its direct route network with services to Baku and Krasnoyarsk. Azerbaijan Airlines it to operate two flights a week to the Azerbaijan capital of Baku on Wednesdays and Sundays, while Ural Airlines is to introduce direct flights to Krasnoyarsk, the largest economic, educational and cultural center of the East Siberian Federal District every Tuesday. Both services commence on 1st April. Ulugbek Shamsikulov, CEO of Air Marakanda, the airport management company for Samarkand airport, said, “The resumption of services between Samarkand and Turkistan, provides an important link between two spiritual and historical centers. This route also strengthens the commercial and business links between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.” Samarkand International Airport was named the fastest growing airport in Europe and Central Asia by the Airports Council International (ACI), with 1.38 million passengers passing through the ultra-modern terminal. This equated to growth of 36.6% compared with 2023 when Samarkand surpassed the one-million passenger mark for the first time. In 2024 ACI figures showed that Samarkand grew twice as quickly as the next fastest growing airport in the Europe/Central Asia region. Added Mr Shamsikulov,“Overseas visitors to Samarkand can enjoy the modern tourism infrastructure that has been carefully curated to help showcase the historic treasures that are housed in one of the world’s oldest cities. An increasing number of tourists are recognizing the treasures in Samarkand and our neighboring areas of Urumqi, Xi’an, Baku, Mineralnye Vody, Sochi and Izmir, locations that offer such rich historical heritage.”

Recent News

Vietjet Thailand launches Holi promotional fares

Delhi,March 12th, 2025: Splashing happiness to celebrate Mumbai’s Holi 2025 with vibrant journeys, Vietjet Thailand launches ‘Celebrate the Colors of Holi with Vietjet’ promotion, with fares starting from INR 8,850 (inclusive of taxes and fees) on daily direct flights between Mumbai – Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi), domestic connecting flights to Thailand’s popular destinations—Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi (via Bangkok, with check-through baggage service)—and the airline’s connecting international routes—Da Nang, Phu Quoc (Vietnam), Phnom Penh and Taipei (via Bangkok, with a convenient stopover and check-through baggage service).Travellers can book tickets from March 11 – 15, 2025, for travel between April 20 – October 25, 2025 (excluding public holidays. The special promotional tickets are applied to Vietjet Thailand’s daily direct flight services between Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) and Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi). Additionally, passengers can conveniently book domestic connecting flights from Mumbai to Thailand’s popular destinations—Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi—via Bangkok with a seamless check-through baggage service. The airline also offers international connecting flights from Mumbai to Da Nang, Phu Quoc (Vietnam), Phnom Penh, and Taipei (via Bangkok), ensuring a smooth stopover with check-through baggage service.

Recent News

Delhi, 10th March 2025: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Northern Region has announced new office bearers for 2025-26 at its AGM held in New Delhi where the y have elected Sunjay Kapur, Chairman, Sona Comstar as the Chairman and Puneet Kaura, Managing Director & CEO, Samtel Avionics as the the Deputy Chairman. Together, they will steer CII Northern Region across seven states—Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and three Union Territories—Chandigarh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh—focusing on growth, innovation, and industry competitiveness. Puneet Kaura, the newly appointed Deputy Chairman of CII Northern Region, is the Managing Director & CEO of Samtel Avionics, a leading Indian company specializing in avionics, rugged displays, and defense electronics for both domestic and international markets. Under his leadership, Samtel Avionics has played a key role in India’s defense and aerospace industry, contributing to cutting-edge technology solutions for fighter jets, helicopters, and land-based systems. The company has forged global partnerships with major defense OEMs and government agencies, positioning India as a key player in the aerospace sector. Puneet Kaura has been actively involved in CII leadership roles, having served as the Chairman of CII Delhi. His deep understanding of industrial growth strategies, government policies, and technology-driven manufacturing makes him a valuable addition to the CII Northern Region leadership team.

Airports

ATC Forum to discuss air traffic control challenges and innovations in Dubai

Dubai,5th March, 2025: Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) are working their ways to ensure smooth aircraft movements as several of them face what the EUROCONTROL calls “structural capacity shortfalls, and less airspace availability for re-routings.” Globally, aircraft movements is expected to reach 178.1 million by 2042, up from 106.7 million in 2024.In 2042, international passenger traffic will reach the 8.7 billion mark and domestic traffic to 10.6 billion passengers, as per ACI World. Several ANSPs will be showcasing from May 6 to 8 at the 24th edition of Airport Show, the MENASA’s largest airport industry B2B platform, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The Airport Show will have on display Communications, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) systems needed to keep the skies safe, secure and efficient, and for delivering consistently high levels of service to airports and airlines. The 8th edition of ATC Forum, a co-located conference supported by DANS among others, will see experts and specialists discussing ATC modernization and innovation in the Middle East whose aviation market is expected to reach US$33.7 billion by 2029, with US$151 billion in airport investments and US$2.4 billion in aircraft investments. Ibrahim Al Ahli, Acting CEO of Dubai Air Navigation Services (DANS), the ANSP for four airports in the UAE including DXB, remarked: “The focus of leading ANSPs is to develop, support and achieve optimum usage of their airspace by adopting new systems and technologies.This is being ensured through new air traffic management capabilities. Our relentless pursuit is for excellence since the 1980s and we continue our work to keep up high the status of the global aviation hub that boasts a thriving aviation ecosystem with unparalleled connectivity. The ANSP has been enhancing its ability to cooperatively manage aviation growth until 2030.The Airport Show participation of over 160 exhibitors from over 20 countries, four of whom featured their dedicated pavilions and over 120 buyers from more than 35 countries, in the previous edition. There were 3,500+ meetings under its hugely popular Business Connect Program. It is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.The three-day show will have co-located conferences – the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum (GALF), Airport Security Middle East, the ATC Forum, and Women in Aviation (WIA). The platform is supported by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Airports, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, Emirates Airlines, Dubai Air Navigation Services, and dnata, among others. May Ismail, Event Manager at RX, a global company that organizes about 400 events across 42 industry sectors in 22 countries including Airport Show, said: “Air Traffic Control (ATC), like the other civil aviation domains, has been witnessing tremendous transformation as new technologies and innovations emerge. The whole purpose is to enhance efficiency and safety of ATM and ATC. The technology-driven era is enablingthe airports to become thriving hubs. There are challenges and opportunities of growth from disruptive technologies for the ATM. We have to explore what best in available now and what is going to come in the future. Airport Show is serving this niche phase.” The ATC market faces challenges such as high deployment costs, system complexity, stringent regulatory requirements, and cybersecurity concerns related to flight data protection. Advancements in satellite-based navigation, NextGen ATC systems, and the integration of AI are anticipated to enhance efficiency and capacity in airspace management.The Middle East will see until 2030 around 1,058 new aircraft delivered in the region. Passenger traffic in the Middle East is projected to grow by more than nine percent by 2027.

Drones

Skye Air Mobility introduces India’s first all-women drone delivery team

Delhi, 5th March, 2025: In one of the initiative, Skye Air Mobility has launched first-ever all-women drone delivery team proving that Indian women are second to none when it comes to innovation and leadership in emerging industries such as drones. As a powerful prelude to International Women’s Day, an initiative of Skye Air for women drone pilots and Skye Walkers executing seamless, end-to-end deliveries of essential goods—ranging from medicines and groceries to iPhones—using its proprietary drone delivery technology. Under this initiative the entire process, from piloting the drones to executing last-mile deliveries, will be managed exclusively by women. This marks a world-first achievement in fully female-led drone logistics and signals the beginning of a revolution in the traditionally male-dominated logistics sector. With the drone industry growing at an exponential pace, there is an increasing demand for skilled pilots, creating new avenues for women to break barriers and lead in this futuristic profession. Globally, female representation in drone aviation has been on the rise, with the number of women holding an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate in the US nearly doubling from 3.9% in 2016 to 6.7% in 2019. While these numbers are still small, the momentum is shifting, and India is taking bold steps to ensure that women are at the forefront of this transformation. However, the industry still presents challenges, including limited access to training, resources, and mentorship for women. Traditionally, sectors like drones, space, and virtual reality have been perceived as male-dominated, but this narrative is rapidly changing. With growing interest and active participation from women, companies are now focusing on developing educational programs and skill-based training to bridge the gap and empower women to lead in drone technology. Recognizing the potential of women in drone logistics, Skye Air Mobility will train 500 women pilots and Skye Walkers over the next two years, equipping them with expertise in drone operations, delivery management, and last-mile logistics. This initiative also aligns with the spirit of ‘Namo Drone Didi’, a government-backed program that encourages women to harness drone technology for economic empowerment. By supporting women in drone operations, such initiatives are not only fostering financial independence but also reshaping the logistics industry into a more inclusive space.

Recent News

SriLankan Airlines introduces wireless in-flight entertainment

Delhi 4th March 2025 : SriLankan Airlines will be introducing wireless in-flight entertainment on select narrow-body A320 aircraft, enabling passengers to seamlessly stream content on their own devices. The passengers on certain short-haul flights can now experience a greater degree of personalisation and convenience, while enjoying their favourite movies, music and more onboard. Maria Sathasivam, Manager Product Development of SriLankan Airlines stated, “We are excited to make our award-winning onboard entertainment content even more accessible to our loyal customers. Wireless entertainment is emerging as a game-changer in the industry, offering multiple advantages for both customers and airlines. As an airline that embraces innovation, with passenger experience at the heart of everything we do, it is a natural step for SriLankan Airlines to join the ranks of global carriers offering wireless in-flight entertainment.” Passengers can use their smartphones, tablets or laptops to access and stream on-demand content onboard via the airline’s Wi-Fi network, SkyPlus, without the need for seatback screens. Powered by the wireless streaming solution, Everhub, passengers are instantly connected to SriLankan’s in-flight entertainment system, featuring an expertly curated library with something for everyone.

Tourism

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts appoints Gaurav Arora as Director of Global Sales in India

Colombo,4th March 2025: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Sri Lanka’s has announced the appointment of Gaurav Arora as the Director of Global Sales for India, effective 3 March 2025. With over two decades of experience in international hospitality sales, Gaurav has successfully driven outbound business for leading global hotel brands, including Shangri-La, Hilton and Marriott International. In his most recent role, Gaurav led Enhance Hospitality, a luxury hotel representation firm, successfully managing top-tier international brands in the Indian market.In his new role,Gaurav will drive revenue growth across Corporate, Leisure and MICE segments and execute sales strategies to strengthen Cinnamon’s brand presence in India. He will also be responsible in enhancing partnerships for the Global Sales Office, to drive market growth across India. Commenting on the appointment, the Chief Commercial Officer of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Radhey Tawar, said “We are delighted to welcome Gaurav to Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts at a pivotal time to support us in our efforts to expand our sales presence in the Indian market – our top source market for tourist arrivals currently. His deep understanding of the Indian outbound travel landscape will support us to strengthen our presence and manage meaningful partnerships across Corporate, MICE and Leisure travel segments.” Gaurav Arora also commenting on his new role as the Director of Global Sales for India for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, says, “I am excited to join Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts as the Indian outbound travel to Sri Lanka and the Maldives is experiencing significant growth. I look forward to leveraging my expertise to expand our brand presence and to ensure strategic alignment to the success of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in India.”

Cargo

Qatar Airways Cargo launches AEROSPACE product

Doha, 28th Feb 2025: Mechanical failures, equipment malfunctions or technical issues discovered during scheduled maintenance, can all result in an aircraft having to remain grounded (Aircraft on Ground – AOG) until the necessary parts are sourced and repairs have been completed. AOG requirements are increasing and changing, given that international travel and cargo demand is on the rise, Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) service providers and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are becoming more globalised, and national aerospace industries are growing at a rapid pace. To meet these market requirements, the world’s leading air cargo carrier, Qatar Airways Cargo, has now launched a leading edge new product, designed based on customer feedback, offering a tailored time-critical logistics solution to manufacturers, freight forwarders and partners working with commercial airlines, as well as those serving the defence and space technology sectors. AEROSPACE is unique in that it not only provides fast transport for traditional AOG commodities (commercial aircraft engines and spares), but also for all kinds of other critical aerospace parts and components such as avionics, electric propulsion equipment, airframe interiors, landing gears, and much more. Qatar Airways Cargo, renowned for its exceptional care and unparalleled service, goes above and beyond to ensure safe and secure transport. It is the only air cargo carrier to introduce bespoke, shock absorbing 20-ft and 40-ft engine transport dollies at its hub in Doha, capable of carrying up to 20,000kg, ensuring smooth ground operations and protection of high value and critical aerospace equipment and products. The air cargo carrier also excels in floating loading technique for engines which further serves to minimise ground time and expedite aircraft turnaround. “Time is money! That saying is particularly true when it comes to aviation in all its forms: every hour of downtime translates into lost revenue for airlines or sunk costs for aerospace projects,” says Mark Drusch, Qatar Airways Chief Officer Cargo. “Factor in the additional need for safety and constant supervision, and it’s clear that our product – AEROSPACE – is the ideal solution for time-critical aviation parts and components.” AEROSPACE is available across the entire Qatar Airways Cargo network, and comes with the highest loading priority, a dedicated handling team and Control Tower support to ensure the rapid processing and seamless transportation of crucial AOG shipments. Its dedicated special loads team will respond to customer enquiries on the loadability of aerospace equipment within just 45 minutes. Qatar Airways Cargo’s extensive global network, 28 Boeing 777 freighters and 230 belly-hold passenger aircraft offer fast connections, with tail-to-tail transfers in as little as 4 hours. Where required, adhoc charter operations can be arranged. “With our AEROSPACE product, we will be the number one logistics expert for every type of Aerospace product – whether it is for commercial aviation, defence, even space technologies,” Mark Drusch details. “I can assure you already today that, thanks to our inhouse advanced screening techniques and our highly skilled loading teams, your AEROSPACE shipments are in the best of hands and will be delivered quickly and safely, utilising our bespoke transport dollies in Doha, to wherever they are urgently needed.”

Cargo

BLR Airport and Menzies Aviation launches India’s largest domestic cargo terminal

Bengaluru, March 1st, 2025: Bangalore Int. Airport Ltd. has partnered with Menzies Aviation to redefine domestic cargo operations with the launch of India’s largest Greenfield Domestic Cargo Terminal (DCT) in terms of designed capacity. This 245,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility signifies a major milestone in BLR Airport’s cargo handling capabilities, offering enhanced infrastructure and streamlined processes to meet the growing demands of the domestic market. It will play a key role in connecting industries, strengthening supply chains, and driving innovation toward a more sustainable future for domestic cargo and regional trade, positioning BLR Airport as a leader in cargo handling. Bigger, Better and Advanced Spanning over 7 acres, the DCT features a peak handling capacity of approximately 360,000 metric tons, with a potential to expand to 400,000 metric tons. With around 42 truck docks, more than 400 specially designed cargo bins, conveyors aligned with X-ray machines, approximately 30 ULD build-up and breakdown stations, along with real-time data capture using 40 handheld terminals and self-service kiosks for agents, the facility will ensure seamless cargo movement while reducing turnaround times. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and digital solutions, the terminal introduces upgrades like real-time shipment tracking, data analytics tools, and enhanced communication systems integrated with barcodes and QR codes. This integration enables seamless data exchange with airline systems, improves process timelines, and reduces human touchpoints, ensuring faster and safer cargo handling. The emphasis on digitalisation will streamline operations, enhance visibility across the supply chain, and elevate the overall cargo handling experience for airlines, cargo agents, and end users. Special Cargo at DCT BLR Airport has established a strong reputation as a leading hub for perishables. The airport is already the largest exporter of mangoes, coriander, and various other perishable goods. With the Domestic Cargo Terminal (DCT), BLR Airport is set to further enhance its handling capacity. The new DCT will have the capability to manage perishables solidifying BLR Airport’s position as a key player in the air cargo industry. The terminal will also include dedicated storage areas for specialised cargo, such as valuables, vulnerable items, live animals, dangerous goods, and radioactive materials, reinforcing its comprehensive cargo handling capabilities. Sustainability at the Core Compliant with Indian Green Building Council standards, the terminal’s scalable design ensures it can support future growth while reducing its environmental footprint. By enhancing supply chain resilience, creating employment opportunities, and driving new avenues for trade and commerce, this terminal reaffirms BLR Airport’s role as a key driver of greener, smarter cargo operations that contribute to sustainable economic growth. The terminal seamlessly integrates eco-friendly features such as skylighting, advanced ventilation systems, water conservation practices, and energy-efficient infrastructure, all designed to minimise its environmental impact. By prioritising both environmental sustainability and workforce well-being, and incorporating renewable energy solutions, BLR Airport is setting the stage for greener, more efficient cargo operations, while paving the way for a more sustainable future in the industry. Satyaki Raghunath, COO of Bangalore International Airport Limited, added, “This new domestic cargo terminal reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainable growth. By integrating eco-friendly practices with cutting-edge technology, we have created a facility that addresses the growing demand for domestic cargo but also sets benchmarks for operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. This new facility will bring us closer to realising our vision of becoming a premier air cargo hub, unlocking new opportunities and driving economic growth.” Charles Wyley, EVP Middle East, Africa & Asia, Menzies Aviation said: “Our new greenfield domestic cargo terminal at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) is a major step forward in our commitment to delivering efficient, reliable and future-ready logistics solutions. With the rapid growth in air cargo in India – which is set to reach 5.8 million tonnes by 2029, this facility is designed to not only meet today’s demand but to scale for future needs as the industry continues to evolve.” With the launch of this dedicated domestic cargo terminal, BLR Airport reinforces its position as a leader in innovation, efficiency, and sustainability within India’s air cargo landscape. As air cargo demand continues to rise, this terminal is set to be at the forefront, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Recent News

PHL’s 2024 pax volume surpasses 30 million

Philadelphia,1st March 2025: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) welcomed almost 30.9 million passengers in 2024 — an increase of almost 10 percent over 2023 and the most guests who have passed through the airport’s terminals since its record year of 2019. Over 3.8 million of those passengers traveled to and from international destinations. “We knew going into 2024 that it would be an exciting year for PHL, with the city hosting events like Wrestle Mania and American Airlines launching new international service to Copenhagen, Naples and Nice. We surpassed our 2023 passenger total by November,” said City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation CEO Atif Saeed. “2025 will be even more eventful. In June, Aeroméxico will join our airline partners and begin year-round daily service to Mexico City. Also this summer, American will introduce seasonal service to Milan and Edinburgh. The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 matches at Lincoln Financial Field and the United States Navy’s and Marine Corps’ Homecoming 250 celebration will bring even more guests to PHL.” More than 9.1 million guests flew to and from PHL in the summer months of June-August, including 3.1 million in July and 3 million in August. This was the first time since 2019 that PHL surpassed 3 million guests in any month. Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE) is a general aviation airport, which is also owned and operated by the Department of Aviation. PNE had 122,186 plane movements, a 6.6 percent increase over 2023. As a general aviation airport, PNE has major tenants engaged in private transport, business and corporate flying, the manufacturing or building process of those aircraft, providing flight training and aviation mechanical training. PHL Passenger Volume: Total Plane Movements: 319,938 (+8.6% from 2023) Domestic Passengers: 27,040,339 (+10.3% from 2023) International Passengers: 3,856,233 (+6.5% from 2023) Total Passengers: 30,896,572 (+9.8% from 2023)

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!

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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