Author name: Aviation World

2nd India SAF Conclave brings together 500+ delegates and 200+ companies from 25+ countries; 5% blending targeted by 2030 New Delhi, September 28, 2026: India’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel industry will rest on two foundations: fair income for the farmers who supply feedstock, and a verifiable carbon economy that earns the trust of airlines and international markets. That was the central message at the 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026, organised by the SAF Association at Bharat Mandapam on September 28-29. H.E. Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Al Shibani, Ambassador of Oman to India, highlighted the scope for partnership. “India’s SAF transition presents significant opportunities for collaboration across energy, technology and investment,” he said. “Strong India-Oman partnerships can help develop sustainable aviation solutions and strengthen the clean-energy ecosystem. International cooperation will be critical to accelerating SAF adoption and building a sustainable aviation future.” H.E. Benedikt Höskuldsson, Ambassador of Iceland to India, pointed to next-generation possibilities. “Green technologies and Power-to-X pathways can play an important role in shaping the next generation of sustainable aviation,” he said. “Innovation must be connected with investment, technology deployment and practical implementation. International platforms such as the India SAF Conclave can help accelerate collaboration and the global SAF transition.”The conclave has drawn over 500 delegates, 200 companies and 100 industry leaders from more than 25 countries.”SAFA is committed to bringing the entire SAF value chain together through industry-led collaboration and global partnerships,” said Rohit Kumar, Secretary General, SAF Association & CMAI. “Our focus is to connect policymakers, investors, technology providers, feedstock players and buyers to create practical opportunities. Through SAFA Matchmaking and structured dialogue, we aim to turn collaboration into projects, investment and commercial-scale SAF production.” Harvest beyond the harvest Conclave material estimates that feedstock opportunities could add around US$160-300 (₹15,000-₹29,000) per hectare to farmer income. SAFA estimates India could produce about 40 million tonnes of SAF a year by 2050, roughly 10% of global potential. Sugarcane ethanol supply of around 1.5 billion litres gives Alcohol-to-Jet production a head start, while annual edible oil consumption of 29-30 million tonnes could yield 1.8-2.6 million tonnes of used cooking oil, though only a small share reaches authorised collection channels. Dr. Alok Sharma, Vice President, SAF Association and former Director, R&D, IOCL, said scale depends on supply. “Scaling SAF will require reliable feedstocks, technology readiness, financing, certification, infrastructure and long-term offtake commitments.” Proving every tonne SAF can deliver up to 80% lifecycle CO₂ savings, and India’s emerging carbon economy will depend on proving them. The S&P Global Energy-SAFA report, India’s Strategy for SAF Leadership: From Policy to Implementation, stresses traceability, verification and certification.India already has four ISCC-CORSIA certified co-processing facilities with combined capacity of 106,500 tonnes. The next step is extending that rigour to the farm gate and the kitchen, so the carbon economy stays credible and suppliers are fairly rewarded. The road to 5% The indicative blending pathway for international flights is 1% in 2027, 2% in 2028 and 5% by 2030, with demand rising from about 46,000 tonnes to roughly 250,000 tonnes. Existing capacity should cover 2027 and 2028, but if HEFA and ATJ projects due between 2028 and 2030 do not come online, the 2030 target will be missed. Those projects need steady feedstock, putting farmers and collection networks at the heart of delivery. Blending mandates alone, the report notes, will not build a viable industry. Building the ecosystem: SAFA and CMAI SAFA, working with CMAI, has brought policymakers, investors, technology providers, feedstock players and airlines onto a common platform. Through SAFA Matchmaking, structured dialogue and global partnerships, it is turning conversations into projects and investment. Its joint report with S&P Global Energy offers a data-backed roadmap. SAF YouTube channel launched The conclave today also saw the launch of the SAF YouTube channel, Alongside the SAFA Knowledge Hub, the channel extends SAFA’s knowledge initiatives to a wider audience, bringing the SAF conversation to industry, policymakers and the public. Growing market S&P Global Energy estimates India’s jet fuel demand could rise from about 192,000 barrels per day in 2024 to 277,000 by 2031. The two-day conclave includes B2B and B2G meetings, MoU signings, technical workshops and CORSIA and SAF-Bioeconomy roundtables. The report concludes that the 2027 and 2028 milestones will lay the foundation for the 5% target in 2030.

Andhra Pradesh, 28th Sept 2026: Orient Flights Aviation Academy, a DGCA-approved Flight Training Organisation and a unit of Orient Flights Pvt. Ltd., today inaugurated its new flying training base at Kurnool Airport, marking a significant milestone with the establishment of Andhra Pradesh’s first Flying Training Organisation. The inauguration ceremony was held at the OFAA Hangar, Kurnool Airport, with Sri. Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. Sri. B. C. Janardhan Reddy, Minister for Roads & Buildings and Infrastructure & Investments, Government of Andhra Pradesh, and Sri. T. G. Bharath, Minister for Industries & Commerce and Food Processing, Government of Andhra Pradesh, attended as Guests of Honour. The event was also attended by Sri. Bastipati Nagaraju, Member of Parliament, Kurnool; Smt. Gowru Charitha Reddy, Member of Legislative Assembly, Panyam; Shri Vipin Kumar, IAS, Chairman AAI; Shri. Madhu Sudana Sankar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation; Sri. Kona Sasidhar, IAS, Secretary to Government (FAC), Infrastructure & Investment Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh; Sri. Praveen Adithya C.V., IAS, Collector & District Magistrate, Nandyal; Dr. A. Siri, IAS, Collector & District Magistrate, Kurnool; and Smt. Rajakumari Ganiya, IAS, Managing Director, APADCL as Special Guests and distinguished invitees. The inauguration was held in the presence of Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chairman; Dr. Elizabeth Verghese, Founder Chairperson; Dr. Ashok George Verghese, Director; Sri. Anoop Swamikannu, CEO, St. Joseph’s Group of Institutions; Mr. Enid Verghese Jacob, Associate Director; and Mr. Abel Mathew Prasad, Vice President, along with members of the Board of Directors, management officials, staff, cadet pilots and other distinguished guests. The establishment of the Kurnool FTO represents a significant expansion of professional pilot-training infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh. The new base will provide aspiring pilots from the state and neighbouring regions with greater access to structured, professional and safety-focused flight training. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chairman, Orient Flights Aviation Academy, said: “The inauguration of our Kurnool flying training base is an important milestone in the journey of Orient Flights Aviation Academy and in the development of aviation training infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh. Our endeavour is to provide aspiring pilots with a structured pathway to a professional aviation career, supported by quality training, modern infrastructure and an uncompromising commitment to safety. We are grateful to the Government of India and the Government of Andhra Pradesh, our distinguished guests and all our stakeholders for their support and encouragement as we begin this new chapter at Kurnool.” The inauguration ceremony featured the unveiling of the inauguration plaque, addresses by the dignitaries and the formal commencement of OFAA’s operations at Kurnool. The event also highlighted the academy’s continued commitment to aviation education and professional pilot training. A key highlight of the ceremony was the flag-off of the inaugural flight, formally marking the commencement of flying training operations from the Kurnool base. The Kurnool facility is designed to provide cadet pilots with a professional training environment supported by modern learning resources and aviation-oriented infrastructure. The new base will complement OFAA’s established flying training operations at Mysuru Airport, Karnataka. The facility is expected to support aviation skill development and contribute to the growth of professional pilot-training infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh. By bringing structured flight training closer to aspiring pilots in the region, OFAA aims to help develop confident, disciplined, safety-conscious and industry-ready aviation professionals. The inauguration of the Kurnool FTO marks a new chapter in OFAA’s journey, strengthening its presence in South India and reaffirming its commitment to expanding access to quality pilot training and contributing to the continued growth of India’s aviation sector. The Kurnool FTO marks a new chapter in OFAA’s journey, strengthening its presence in South India and reaffirming its commitment to developing the next generation of aviation professionals. Through the expansion from its established Mysuru Airport base to Kurnool Airport, OFAA aims to further strengthen access to professional pilot training and contribute to the continued growth of India’s aviation sector.

Singapore, 23 September 2026: Safran Landing Systems inaugurates today the extension of its Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul center in Singapore, in the presence of His Excellency Stephen Marchisio, ambassador of France to Singapore, Cindy Koh, Executive Vice President of the Singapore Economic Development Board, Olivier Thomas, MRO Executive Vice President of Safran Landing Systems as well as industry partners and customers. This US$22 million investment, supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board, underscores Safran Landing Systems’ commitment to strengthening Singapore’s role as a strategic hub for aircraft maintenance in the Asia-Pacific region. The new 7,500-square-meter extension features a state-of-the-art assembly line for landing gear overhauls, increasing capacity and flexibility to meet the evolving needs of major aircraft fleets while supporting airlines throughout Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Established in 1979 and a strategic partner of SIA Engineering Company since 2000, the Singapore site is Safran Landing Systems’ key facility in the region for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of commercial aircraft landing systems. It provides end-to-end MRO capabilities, including disassembly, inspection, machining, surface treatment, assembly, and final certification. This expertise covers a wide range of aircraft including the Airbus A320 family, A330, A350, A380, as well as Boeing 737, 787, and ATR regional aircraft. The site currently employs 360 people. The expansion is expected to create nearly 100 new jobs by 2030, alongside a strong commitment to continuous training and talent development. These investments will strengthen the site’s technical capabilities and enable the deployment of advanced repair technologies, further enhancing the range of repair capabilities in Singapore. Sustainability and employee well-being are also integral to the new facility. The new building is equipped with 2,800 square meters of solar panels, energy-efficient LED lighting, and advanced cooling solutions designed to improve energy efficiency while providing a more comfortable working environment. The solar installation is expected to generate renewable electricity, corresponding to approximately 60% of the site’s consumption and reducing carbon emissions, reinforcing Safran’s commitment to continuously improving its environmental performance. These investments reinforce Safran Landing Systems’ ambition to set new standards for responsible and sustainable MRO operations, supporting safer, more efficient, and more environmentally conscious aviation for the region and beyond. “Today’s inauguration marks a proud milestone, achieved thanks to the collective commitment of our teams, partners, and the local community, built over decades here in Singapore. This investment is a strong signal of Safran Landing Systems’ trust in the region’s potential and deepens our determination to support our airline customers, now and in the future, with ever higher standards of excellence and sustainability.” François Bastin, Safran Landing Systems CEO. “The latest expansion by Safran Landing Systems brings advanced repair technologies to Singapore and adds to our comprehensive suite of MRO offerings. We value Safran’s confidence in Singapore and look forward to working with them to develop the next generation aerospace technologies here, create good jobs and rewarding career pathways for Singaporeans.” Cindy Koh, Singapore Economic Development Board, Executive Vice President. As the world leader in landing and braking systems, Safran Landing Systems delivers highperformance MRO solutions to airlines and military fleets. Its global network of seven industrial facilities – including Singapore – ensures flexibility, responsiveness, and quality, making Safran Landing Systems a trusted partner to operators in pursuit of safer, more efficient, and more sustainable aviation.

Airline marks the Kingdom’s National Day with a cashback offer, extra Alfursan Miles and special activations, including a flypast at the National Day Airshow Saudi Arabia, 23 September 2026: flyadeal, Saudia Group’s fast-growing low-cost carrier in the GCC, has launched a multi-dimensional campaign to celebrate the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s National Day, bringing exclusive fare and loyalty offers to customers as it encourages travellers to discover more of the Kingdom’s destinations. This year’s celebrations carry added significance for the airline: flyadeal itself took to the skies for the first time on National Day, 23 September 2017, with its maiden flight from Jeddah to Riyadh. Nine years on, the carrier marks the occasion from a considerably larger domestic and international network. 96% cashback up to SAR 300 in partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority In partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority, flyadeal is offering passengers 96% cashback, up to SAR 300 per booking, on eligible domestic flights booked between 20 and 27 September 2026 for travel from 4 October to 20 December 2026 through its website or mobile app using the promotional code SNDAY. The promotion is available across all flyadeal bundles and applies to selected domestic destinations. The offer is limited to 16,500 vouchers. Cashback will be credited after travel, with vouchers valid until 31 December 2026. Through this collaboration, flyadeal and the Saudi Tourism Authority aim to encourage travellers to explore more destinations across the Kingdom, supporting domestic tourism and Saudi Vision 2030’s tourism ambitions. 96% extra Alfursan Miles on flyMax Alfursan members who book flyadeal’s flyMax bundle can earn 96% extra Alfursan Miles, on top of the 100% bonus already credited on Reward Miles on eligible domestic flights. The offer applies to miles earned on cash bookings only. Bookings must be made between 19 to 30 September 2026, for travel between 19 September to 31 December 2026. flyadeal takes part in the Saudi National Day Airshow flyadeal also took part in the Saudi National Day Airshow in Jeddah, flying an Airbus A320 aircraft in the display. A rehearsal flight took place on 19 September 2026, ahead of the official airshow on 20 September 2026. “Saudi National Day reminds us of the strength, ambition and hospitality that define the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. At flyadeal, we are proud to play our part by making it easier and more rewarding for people to travel, explore and experience the many destinations that make Saudi Arabia unique. Through these National Day offers, we want our customers to enjoy greater value, earn more rewards and create lasting memories as they travel across the country, while supporting the continued growth of domestic tourism and connectivity under Vision 2030.” Sanjiv Kapoor, Acting Chief Executive Officer, flyadeal and Executive Vice President Strategies at Saudia Group Through its expanding domestic and international network, flyadeal continues to connect travellers to destinations across the Kingdom and beyond, supporting greater choice and flexibility for passengers while contributing to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s aviation and tourism sectors.