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    Interview

    We are the only firm in India representing both fixed-wing and rotary-wing OEMs in India

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    In an exclusive conversation with Aviation World, Sudhir S. Rajeshirke, President – Aerospace at Jubilant Enpro Pvt. Ltd. shares insight on aircraft management reform, regional turboprops and the coming HEMS market. Excerpts… AW: Help us understand the role of Jubilant in representing two global OEMs in a market like India, and how has that role evolved? A: Jubilant’s aerospace business has represented OEMs since 1995 and now we represent top aerospace brands such as Bell Flight and Textron Aviation in India. As far as I am aware, we are the only firm in India representing both fixed-wing and rotary-wing OEMs in India. We front-end customer relationships right from the time they first engage with us on assessing the right aircraft for them through the entire life cycle of the product. Our key role is to develop market and ecosystem for an eventual sale of aircraft in India.  When a customer is ready to take delivery, we ensure that the pilots, maintenance infrastructure, training, spares and other support systems are available for a seamless induction and operation of Textron and Bell aircraft in India. In addition, by taking active role in leading industry bodies, we work in development of aviation policies that are conducive to the growth of business aviation in India. AW: The Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA have been working on enabling provisions for aircraft management, and eventually for shared ownership. You have argued for this for the better part of a decade. What would be likely impact when the changes come through?  A: Today, a huge hassle for any aircraft customer, typically the companies, State Governments, large institutions, is they have to  start and operate an aviation company which is outside their core domain expertise. They have to hire flight crew, engage maintenance agency and carry out quality, procurement, regulatory activities. This is a huge deterrent as large liabilities are involved. Further, due to complex structuring, customers don’t receive depreciation benefits.  That’s a huge financial loss for an expensive asset. Under an aircraft management model, a professional entity spreads crew, quality systems and administrative capability across a fleet. This model separates the ownership and operation between two parties.  The customer gets ownership and depreciation benefits, the aircraft management company provides professional aviation services, which is it’s core expertise.  Both win. Secondly, the regulator’s job gets easier. Today the DGCA has to oversee a very large number of small operators, many holding one or two aircraft, each with its own systems. That is an enormous supervisory burden on an organization that is already stretched. If a professional aircraft management service provider holds operational and compliance responsibility for several aircraft, the regulator monitors one competent entity instead of many uneven ones. That is better for safety oversight. Thirdly, aircraft management regulations will lay the foundation for aircraft fractional ownership. It is better that these are bought sequentially and not simultaneously as you cannot attempt the second without having proved the first. AW: Turning to regional connectivity, how do the Cessna Caravan and SkyCourier fit India’s requirement? A: The Ministry of Civil Aviation’s UDAN’s Regional Connectivity Scheme succeeded in upgrading tier-2 and tier-3 airport infrastructure and in making air travel affordable on routes that were never served before.  However, two major challenges still exist.  Firstly, airlines need to offer a price that’s affordable at even subsidized levels.  Secondly, planes, need to fly at least half full for profitable operations. These challenges have impacted airlines to serve profitably on aircraft that have more than 70 plus seats but need to serve short-thin routes.   The economics don’t work. The Grand Caravan EX is built precisely for that. It carries up to ten passengers and an airline is able to fill the aircraft on almost all routes. The cost of acquisition and operation helps airlines using Caravan become profitable on RCS routes.  India One Air has been an exemplary example. They built a business model on short-thin routes in North East region and opened up access to locations that were previously unserved in the region.  Another new operator Megamax Aviation will be launching services next year with Grand Caravan aircraft thus making it an obvious choice for RCS operators. The SkyCourier operates a notch above. It is a twin-engine turboprop that carries between 15 and 19 passengers, including cargo combination versions.  For India, e-commerce and pharmaceutical logistics are pushing volume into tier-2 and tier-3 cities faster than the feeder air-cargo network has developed. A twin-engine aircraft with containerized loading and low operating cost is a very sensible answer to that. AW: You have also spoken about HEMS and search and rescue (SAR). Where is that market today? A: India is, to my knowledge, the only major economy still substantially under-served by air medical and search and rescue services. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has made a start: The Sanjeevani pilot, with a helicopter stationed at AIIMS Rishikesh was an important proof of concept. But pilot projects need scale. For HEMS to become a genuine industry in India, three  things need to be resolved. The first is the funding model. Somebody has to pay for the helicopter acquisition and missions. In mature markets that is a combination of insurance reimbursement, state health budgets and subscription schemes. In India, the funding model is not yet developed.  So we need to enable hospital chains to pay for acquisition and have management companies to operate HEMS missions. The second is infrastructure and air congestion within cities for HEMS operations. The third is regulatory and airspace clarity  specific to the mission. HEMS and SAR operate under time pressure and need to occur at a moment’s notice and not wait for any approvals. Initiating search and rescue (SAR) missions need inter-ministerial coordination framework to carry out widespread SAR missions that save lives in times of emergencies such as floods, earthquakes and other natural calamities. AW: How does Bell position itself in that segment? A: Bell has been at the forefront in championing the cause of HEMS and SAR

    Defence

    Suryakiran Aerobatic Team takes to Meerut skies for the first time

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    Meerut, 21 September 2026: The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team of the Indian Air Force took to the skies of Meerut for the first time on September 19 and 20, 2026, captivating spectators with a breathtaking display. Over 1 lakh people, including students, National Cadet Corps cadets and National Service Scheme volunteers turned up over two days to witness the display. Notably, three members of the SKAT team, including two pilots who performed aerobatics, are from Meerut. On September 20, 2026, the show was witnessed by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth. Posting on X, Shri Sanjay Seth described the event as a remarkable blend of discipline, precision, teamwork, and professionalism, and a testament to the Indian Air Force’s glorious capabilities. He commended the courage and dedication of SKAT which has performed in over 800 airshows, both in India and abroad, in its 30-year journey, so far. Posting on X on the first day of the display, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh praised the precision and courage of SKAT pilots who painted the sky in the colours of the Tricolour, showcasing breathtaking precision and courage. He called it a proud and inspiring moment for the state and a nation as a whole. Other dignitaries who witnessed the show include Rajya Sabha MP Dr Laxmikant Bajpai, UP Minister of State Shri Somendra Tomar, and Members of the Legislative Council Shri Ashwini Tyagi and Shri Dharmendra Bhardwaj.

    Civil Aviation

    Air Astana Group Wins Several Top Awards at the 2026 Skytrax Airline Awards

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    Singapore, 21 September 2026: Air Astana received two major accolades, being named Best Airline in Central Asia & CIS for the 15th consecutive year and Best Airline Staff Service in Central Asia & CIS for the tenth time at the prestigious 2026 World Airline Awards, held on 18 September 2026 at the iconic Langham Hotel in London. The awards are organised by Skytrax, the international air transport rating organisation. Air Astana continues to lead the region in quality and service delivery, with 2026 marking another year of double-award success at the World Airline Awards. This continued recognition reinforces its position as the top-rated carrier in Central Asia & CIS and reflects strong customer appreciation of the airline’s consistently high standards and quality of staff service. FlyArystan, the Group’s low-cost carrier, also confirmed its regional leadership by receiving the Best Low-Cost Airline in Central Asia & CIS award for the fourth consecutive year. Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, said: “Air Astana’s success at this year’s World Airline Awards serves to highlight the high standards of their front line service and product standards. Customers show a strong appreciation of their service, and this success in 2026 demonstrates Air Astana’s dedication to providing an excellent quality of onboard experience, and consistent service delivery.” Ibrahim Canliel, CEO of Air Astana Group, said: “We are honoured to receive these prestigious Skytrax awards for both Air Astana and FlyArystan. This recognition is particularly meaningful because it reflects the views of our passengers and demonstrates the strength of both airlines across their respective market segments. I would like to thank our customers for their continued trust and loyalty, and our entire team for their dedication and commitment to delivering the highest standards of safety and service. We will continue to invest in our people, our fleet and our customer experience as Air Astana Group enters the next stage of its growth.”

    Civil Aviation

    Air India named Best Airline & Best Airline Staff in India & South Asia

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    Gurugram, 19 September 2026: Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced that it has been honoured with three major accolades at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards, winning ‘Best Airline in India’, ‘Best Airline Staff in India & South Asia’, and receiving the coveted Skytrax 4-Star Airline Certification for Business Class and Economy Class. Passenger-voted Skytrax Awards reflect growing customer confidence in Air India The awards for ‘Best Airline in India’ and ‘Best Airline Staff in India & South Asia’ are especially meaningful as they are based on customer feedback gathered through the world’s largest airline passenger satisfaction survey; making them a direct reflection of guests’ experiences and perceptions of the airline. Moreover, the award for ‘Best Airline Staff in India & South Asia’ is a particularly significant recognition of the efforts of Air India’s frontline teams across cabin crew, airports, customer support, and operational functions, who serve millions of guests each year. Air India builds on recent Skytrax 4-Star Airline Rating achievement The honours follow Air India’s recent elevation from a 3-Star to 4-Star airline which is widely regarded as a global benchmark for airline quality. Together, the recognitions underscore the airline’s ongoing transformation under the Vihaan.AI programme and its ambition to become a world-class global airline with an Indian heart. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, along with Air India cabin crew received the awards on behalf of the airline at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards ceremony held in London, UK. Campbell Wilson remarked, “To be recognised as ‘Best Airline in India’ and to receive the award for ‘Best Airline Staff in India & South Asia’ is especially meaningful because it reflects the New Air India experience our guests are experiencing and acknowledging. These awards belong to the more than 24,000 Air Indians whose professionalism, warmth, and commitment are driving our transformation every day.” “Combined with our Skytrax 4-Star certification, these recognitions demonstrate the steady progress Air India has made in recent years. While we are encouraged by how far we have come, we remain focused on the work ahead as we continue investing in our people, products, technology, and customer experience to build an airline that makes India proud on the global stage.” Air India’s ongoing Vihaan.ai transformation Over the last few years, Air India has undertaken one of the most comprehensive transformation programmes in global aviation, Vihaan.ai, encompassing fleet modernisation, upgraded cabins, reimagined lounges, digital innovation, enhanced customer support, and extensive investment in service excellence and employee training. Today, more than 130 narrowbody and widebody aircraft in Air India’s fleet are either new or upgraded, bringing the New Air India experience to customers across domestic and international routes. From the introduction of India’s first Airbus A350 and new line-fit Boeing 787-9 aircraft to the ongoing retrofit of legacy narrowbody and widebody aircraft, these investments are progressively elevating the guest experience across the airline’s network. Customer feedback highlights Air India’s transformation journey The airline’s evolving customer proposition has been reflected in steadily improving customer feedback and advocacy scores, alongside growing recognition from customers. Air India’s Net Promoter Score (NPS) – a key measure of customer advocacy – has improved by more than 70 points, rising from -35 in late 2022 to nearly +40 today, reflecting tangible gains in areas that matter most to passengers. On Air India’s flagship A350s and B787-9s, the NPS is consistently in the high 60s. As Air India continues its Vihaan.AI journey, the airline remains committed to further enhancing its customer experience, expanding its global footprint, and setting new benchmarks for Indian aviation.

    Civil Aviation

    Bangkok Airways Wins Two SKYTRAX Awards for the 10th Consecutive Year

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    London, 18 September 2026: Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited celebrates a decade of service excellence after being named the winner of two prestigious accolades at the SKYTRAX World Airline Awards 2026: “World’s Best Regional Airline” and “Best Regional Airline in Asia.” This marks the 10th consecutive year the airline has received both awards. The awards ceremony was held at The Langham, London, United Kingdom. The achievement represents another significant milestone for Bangkok Airways, reflecting the continued trust and confidence of passengers worldwide, as well as the dedication of employees across the organization in maintaining high standards of safety, service quality, and memorable travel experiences over the past decade. Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, President of Bangkok Airways said, “This year’s achievement is particularly meaningful for Bangkok Airways, as it marks the 10th consecutive year that we have been recognized as both the World’s Best Regional Airline and the Best Regional Airline in Asia. This recognition reflects the trust that passengers around the world have continued to place in Bangkok Airways over the years.” “On behalf of our management team and all Bangkok Airways employees, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to our passengers for every vote, every journey, and the continued trust and support they have given us. I would also like to dedicate this achievement to all our employees, from our frontline teams who serve passengers every day to those working behind the scenes, whose commitment and attention to detail help make every journey safe, seamless, and memorable.” “Over the past decade, the trust of our passengers has been a driving force behind our continuous improvement, while the dedication of our people has been at the heart of our service excellence. We will continue to uphold the highest standards of safety while further enhancing our products, services, and overall passenger experience, ensuring that every journey with Bangkok Airways reflects the warmth, care, and distinctive experience of Asia’s Boutique Airline.” The SKYTRAX World Airline Awards are widely recognized within the global aviation industry. The awards are based on passenger surveys conducted among travelers from around the world, reflecting their views on airline products and service quality across a broad range of areas. Bangkok Airways has received both the World’s Best Regional Airline and Best Regional Airline in Asia awards in the same year on 10 occasions since 2016: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. No SKYTRAX World Airline Awards ceremony was held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Civil Aviation

    Skytrax Names Singapore Airlines World’s Best Airline for 2026

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    London, 18 September 2026: Singapore Airlines has been named the World’s Best Airline in the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards, marking the sixth time it has received the prestigious accolade. SIA also received awards for Best Airline in Asia, World’s Best Economy Class, and World’s Best Economy Class Onboard Catering. Scoot, SIA’s low-cost subsidiary, was named Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline for the sixth consecutive year at the annual Skytrax awards ceremony, which was held in London on 18 September 2026. The awards are based on a survey of more than 24.8 million travellers globally, who rated over 300 airlines between September 2025 and August 2026. Mr Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines, said: “We are grateful to our customers for their trust and support, and we are committed to delivering an exceptional, world-class travel experience every time they fly with us. This award is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our people, who continually strive to uphold SIA’s renowned standards for service and operational excellence.” Mr Leslie Thng, Chief Executive Officer, Scoot said: “It is an honour to receive the World’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline award for the sixth consecutive year. This recognition validates Scoot’s commitment to providing our customers with comfortable, reliable, and seamless travel experiences. We are grateful to our loyal customers and valued industry partners, whose continued support makes this achievement possible. Scoot will continue to innovate, strengthen our operational resilience, and enhance the customer experience as we reinforce our position as a leading low-cost carrier.” Mr Edward Plaisted, Chief Executive Officer, Skytrax, said: “We congratulate the Singapore Airlines Group on the major achievement of being named the World’s Best Airline 2026 for Singapore Airlines, and the Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline for Scoot. These successes highlight the level of product and service excellence they are providing to customers and should be a source of great pride and motivation for the management and staff in the Group.”

    Defence

    HAL hands over 2 LCA Twin Seaters, 3 HTT-40s & 4 Dhruv NG helicopters

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    India, 19 September 2026: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited handed over two Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Final Operational Clearance Twin Seater Trainers & three HTT 40 Basic Trainers to the Indian Air Force, and four Dhruv Next Generation helicopters to Pawan Hans Limited in the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Minister of Civil Aviation Shri K Rammohan Naidu in Bengaluru, Karnataka on September 18, 2026. In his address, Raksha Mantri described the handing over as a significant milestone in the nation’s progress towards indigenous aerospace capability, technological self-confidence and self-reliance. “Our aim is to make India capable, self-reliant, and globally competitive in meeting its aerospace requirements,” he said. Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that India is moving systematically towards Aatmanirbharta in defence, as the nation is manufacturing the state-of-the-art equipment indigenously ever since Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government began working with the core mantra of self-reliance. “We’ve taken steps to not only provide the opportunity to Defence Public Sector Undertakings to advance in the defence sector, but also encourage the private industry, ensuring a level playing field,” he added, while listing the steps taken by the Ministry of Defence to promote self-reliance. Raksha Mantri stressed the need to advance systematically in the aerospace sector, terming self-reliance in the domain as the need of the hour. “There can be no sudden ‘big bang’ in the development of aerospace systems. It is a vast and gradual process involving a wide range of components. All the products and components involved represent small rungs on a long ladder; we must move forward one step at a time. Naturally, there would be challenges, but we need to view them as milestones on a larger roadmap to achieve progress in a sector as complex and crucial as aerospace,” he said. Shri Rajnath Singh also termed the handing over ceremony as a symbol of the growing synergy between civil aviation and defence aerospace capabilities, emphasising that the development of a robust aerospace industry should not be limited merely to meeting defence requirements. He called for building an ecosystem capable of effectively addressing the needs of both the civil and military aviation sectors. “When capabilities such as aircraft design, avionics, propulsion, composite materials, flight control systems, manufacturing, and certification are developed within the country, they benefit the entire aerospace sector. We must build an integrated aerospace ecosystem which is self-reliant across every domain. I am confident of achieving this endeavour through our collective strength,” he said. Asserting that the nature of warfare is rapidly evolving, and future air operations will be information-intensive and technology-driven, Raksha Mantri underscored the importance of developing complex systems indigenously. He stated that combat effectiveness can only be ensured through a combination of well-trained personnel, advanced technology, integrated systems, and rapid decision-making, expressing confidence that LCA FOC Trainer will play a crucial role in preparing the pilots for this demanding operational environment. “While the Dhruv-NG exemplifies our indigenous civil aerospace prowess, LCA FOC Trainer stands as a symbol of indigenous military aerospace capability and the maturity of its fighter aircraft ecosystem,” he added. On the HTT-40, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that India had, for years, relied on imported aircraft to meet its basic training requirements, but HAL is now indigenously manufacturing HTT-40 to cater to the needs of IAF. Highlighting the aircraft’s export potential, he expressed confidence that the HTT-40 would find demand in international markets and fulfil its intended role in strengthening India’s aerospace capabilities. Raksha Mantri highlighted HAL’s expertise across aircraft manufacturing, helicopter development, overhaul, repair, maintenance and aerospace engineering,  calling it a pillar in India’s endeavour to build indigenous aerospace capabilities. He exhorted the DPSU to further expand its capabilities across the entire aerospace value chain, including design, development, manufacturing, certification, lifecycle support and global marketing. Shri Rajnath Singh called for realistic project timelines to address delays in ongoing technical projects. He noted that delays can create gaps in meeting critical defence requirements, lead to cost escalations and increase the risk of technology obsolescence. Terming R&D as a crucial priority area, Raksha Mantri urged young scientists, engineers, designers, test pilots, and technicians to take it as a challenge to create technologies that do not exist today. He called upon them to develop capabilities that secure a leading position for India in the global aerospace technology landscape over the coming decade. Shri Rajnath Singh stressed the need to not view public and private sectors as competitors, but collaborators. “There is a need for enhanced public-private synergy to build next-gen indigenous aerospace capabilities. By working together, we can accelerate the growth of India’s aerospace sector. We must prepare for the sector’s transformation through Artificial Intelligence, autonomous systems, unmanned aerial systems, electronic warfare, cyber technologies, and next-generation propulsion, with a strong focus on their indigenous development and integration. Let us all resolve to make India not only self-reliant in the field of aerospace technology but also a global leader,” he said. Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Civil Aviation Shri K Rammohan Naidu said that the certification and induction of the Dhruv NG into civil operations marked an important milestone for India’s indigenous civil aviation ecosystem. He termed it as a reflection of the growing capability of Indian industry to develop and support advanced aerospace platforms for commercial applications. CMD, HAL Shri Ravi K stated that the handover of Tejas FOC Twin Seater Trainers, HTT 40 Basic Trainers and Dhruv NG helicopters demonstrates HAL’s ability to develop and deliver platforms for diverse civil and defence requirements. These two platforms, he added, reflect the depth of capability that HAL has built over the years and the strength of the indigenous aerospace ecosystem that supports them. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh; Secretary Shri Sanjeev Kumar; and Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation Shri Samir Kumar Sinha attended the event. The LCA Twin Seater Trainers are the final two aircraft under the FOC contract. The aircraft will support the Indian Air Force’s training requirements and provide pilots with an indigenous training

    2026

    Etihad Introduces Corporate Care to Provide Priority Support for Business Travellers

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    India, September 18, 2026: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, announced the launch of Corporate Care, a new enhancement to its Etihad for Business programme designed to provide organisations and their travellers with priority support when it matters most. Business travel is about more than simply reaching a destination, for organisations, ensuring travellers are supported throughout their journey is essential to maintaining confidence, continuity and peace of mind. Corporate Care strengthens Etihad for Business’s support offering by giving eligible members access to enhanced assistance and closer coordination throughout their travel experience. Through Corporate Care, Etihad for Business members benefit from: Priority support during travel disruptions, including assistance with rebooking, protection of the flight in an unlikely case of aircraft downgrade and seat preference considerations in case of aircraft swap Dedicated account management teams, provide organisations with a closer point of contact for their business travel needs Close coordination with Travel Management Companies (TMCs) to help deliver a more connected and seamless support experience As the business travel landscape continues to evolve, Etihad remains committed to delivering a reliable, customer-first experience that helps organisations and their people travel with confidence. “When it matters most, your business deserves more than support. It deserves priority” said Javier Alija, Vice President Sales, Digital & Distribution at Etihad Airways, “Corporate Care is designed to give our Etihad for Business members an enhanced level of support and reassurance, particularly when unexpected disruption affects their travel plans. By combining priority assistance, dedicated account management and close collaboration with TMC partners, we are helping our customers navigate their journeys with greater confidence.” Corporate Care is part of Etihad’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the Etihad for Business proposition and supporting the evolving needs of corporate travellers and organisations. Organisations interested in learning more about Corporate Care can contact their Etihad account manager to discuss the feature and how it can support their business travel needs or visit the Etihad for Business website to learn more about the programme and sign up.

    2026, Events

    Aviation Week by Informa’s MRO Asia-Pacific Returns to Singapore, September 22-24

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    Region’s Largest Aviation MRO Event to Unite Global Leaders at Singapore Expo. The Asia-Pacific market is experiencing high growth with a full fleet forecast to be presented at the event. Singapore, September 18, 2026: Aviation Week by Informa’s MRO Asia-Pacific will return to the Singapore Expo and Convention Centre September 22–24, with more than 7,500 professionals gathering for the region’s leading aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul industry event. A cornerstone of Asia-Pacific’s aviation calendar, the 26th MRO Asia-Pacific convenes top-tier stakeholders and decision-makers from around the world to examine industry challenges, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions across the entire MRO ecosystem. The robust Asia-Pacific market is experiencing high growth, with the commercial aircraft fleet expected to rise from 9,700 to more than 13,300 units in the next decade. This represents a 3.5% compound annual growth rate, a full half of a percent higher than the global growth rate, with annual MRO demand to support these aircraft to increase $6.5 billion from 2026 to 2035, according to Brian Kough, Senior Director of Forecasts and Aerospace Insights for Aviation Week. The full forecast, which will be presented at the event, will also show $275 billion in scheduled requirements across a diverse fleet in 37 countries within the next 10 years. MRO Asia-Pacific offers expert-driven conference sessions, high-impact networking, and access to a robust marketplace where airlines, OEMs, MROs, lessors, and suppliers engage in business development and collaboration. It is expected to draw more than 7,500 attendees from over 80 countries, including 750+ buyers representing airlines and lessors.Conference programming runs September 22-23 and features a comprehensive lineup of timely topics and strategic insights, including fireside chats and panels moderated by Aviation Week’s editors and analysts. Topics include: Opening Remarks: Jingxin Zheng, Vice President and Head of Mobility for the Singapore Economic Development Board will outline its approach to expanding the MRO ecosystem in the Asia-Pacific and to strengthening Singapore’s position as a global hub. Fleet and MRO Forecast from Aviation Week: An early insight into the outputs from Aviation Week’s 2027 Fleet and MRO Forecast Building tomorrow’s aviation: Leading the way from the hangar to the boardroom Leaders panel: Navigating global geopolitical uncertainty and strategies for strengthening regional MRO capacity Solving the parts puzzle: cost, reliability, and innovation in component MRO Q&A session with regulators Focused session: Evaluating the state of the Aero Engines market The Path to Transformation: Adapting to APAC’s Fleet Growth and MRO Challenges Working together for supply chain resilience Artificial intelligence in MRO Building and supporting the future workforce For a full agenda and session times, visit the Conference Program.The sold-out exhibition hall, open September 23-24, features 375+ solution providers across the MRO value chain. Attendees will also benefit from complimentary access to the Go Live! Theater, sponsored by Setna, where panels will address key topics such as: Debate: What Defines Value in APAC MRO Today— Speed, Certainty, or Flexibility? Inside MRO Careers: Hot Seat Confessions from the Next Generation Meeting the Maintenance Needs of Business Aviation: Lessons from China, India, and Singapore “We are delighted to once again host our annual event in Singapore, the long-standing home of MRO Asia-Pacific,” said Helen Curl, Vice President of Events, Aviation Week. “For 26 years, MRO Asia-Pacific has served as the premier gathering for the region’s aviation maintenance community, providing a vital platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas, build strategic partnerships, and shape the future of MRO.” The program begins on Monday, September 21 at the Capella Hotel with The 7th Annual MRO Asia-Pacific Awards featuring Asia Aerospace Leadership Networking enters its seventh year as the region’s most trusted platform recognizing excellence across MRO, and aftermarket services. The event brings together a uniquely senior audience at the moment when strategic conversations matter most. Over 70% of attendees are C-level and executive decision makers from across the Asia-Pacific aerospace ecosystem.

    Upcoming Events

    MEBAA Show Dubai

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    Date: 8–10 December 2026 Venue: DWC, Dubai Airshow Site About the event: MEBAA Show returns, building on a record-breaking edition that generated up to USD 1 billion in deals and cemented its place as the industry’s most influential business aviation marketplace. With an expanded exhibition hall, the largest static aircraft display, and an elevated Luxury Boulevard, the opportunity has never been stronger. Stronger international participation across OEMs, operators, MROs, and solution providers offers unmatched opportunities to showcase innovation and grow business. More Info: www.mebaa.aero

    FOREWORD

    Dear Readers,

     

    Welcome to the latest edition of Aviation World. This is an incredibly significant issue for us, perfectly timed to align with several prominent aviation events unfolding across the globe.

     

    Chief among them is the Farnborough International Airshow, taking place from July 20th to 24th, 2026, in Hampshire, United Kingdom. Ranked as one of the world’s premier events for aviation, aerospace, and defense, this year’s airshow arrives at a crucial moment. Against a backdrop of geopolitical turbulence, Farnborough provides an invaluable platform to engage with global leaders and gain firsthand perspectives on the future of the industry. Inside, you will find our comprehensive curtain-raiser report focusing on the show’s core themes, as well as the highly anticipated static and aerobatic aircraft displays.

     

    On our front cover, we are proud to feature Capt. Vaibhav Goutham Suresh, Director of the School of Aviation, Logistics and Tourism Management (SALTM) at Galgotias University. In an exclusive interview, Capt. Suresh highlights how SALTM bridges the gap between academia and the runway, delivering a comprehensive curriculum that ensures graduates are industry-ready from day one. Complementing this, our special feature on SALTM dives deeper into how the institution maintains world-class academic standards and a cutting-edge learning environment.

     

    We are also privileged to bring you exclusive insights from a stellar lineup of industry trailblazers in this edition, including:

    • Robin Glover-Faure, Chief Customer Officer of Acron Aviation
    • Karim Makhlouf, CCO of Royal Jordanian Airlines
    • Pallavi Joshi & Vimal Priya, the leadership powerhouse behind AirFleet Managers &Aviatrics Global
    • Wg. Cdr. Prem Kumar Garg (Retd.), CEO of IndiaOne Air

    Each shares a detailed perspective on driving innovation, navigating current market dynamics, and establishing progressive frontiers within their respective sectors.

     

    Beyond these highlights, this issue is packed with curated features and analytical pieces designed to keep you informed and inspired.

     

    Finally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed advertisers and partners. Your unwavering support empowers us in our ongoing endeavor to make Aviation World a truly world-class publication with global reach and recognition.

     

    Happy Reading!

     

    The Editorial Team

     

    Aviation World

    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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