Author name: Aviation World

Airports

SFO Summer Music Series Launches with Stern Grove Festival Performers

“Terminal Sessions” brings iconic music festival to the Airport  SAN FRANCISCO : The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) announced the launch of their annual summer music series, SFO Celebrates: Summer Music in San Francisco with free concerts from artists slated to appear at the Stern Grove Festival, the oldest free music festival in the United States. SFO’s “Terminal Sessions” program will feature internationally renowned bands for in-terminal performances. The schedule is as follows: Saturday, June 13th at 2:00 pm Indian alternative rock band Peter Cat Recording Co. Saturday, June 20th at 2:00 pm Columbian electro tropical band Bomba Estereo “We are truly excited to welcome these highly anticipated international artists for a free, live performance at SFO,” said Airport Director Mike Nakornkhet. Our SFO Celebrates program delivers the energy and excitement of San Francisco events to our global audience to enjoy, and this new Terminal Sessions activation brings iconic San Francisco music festivals to travelers at our Airport.” Terminal Sessions will be held post-security at Gate B4 in Harvey Milk Terminal 1. Admission is free, but capacity is limited and all guests will need to be a ticketed passenger or obtain entry via the SFO Gate Explorer guest pass program. SFO Celebrates: Summer Music in San Francisco will continue on July 7th and run through August 28th with live performances every Wednesday and Thursday from 10:30am – 2:00pm. www.flysfo.com/sfo-celebrates.

Training

IIT Ropar signs MoU with Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University

To Launch Joint PG Diploma in UAV Operations and Drone Technology Punjab, 10th June 2026: The Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU) to jointly offer a one-year Post Graduate Diploma programme in UAV Operations and Drone Technology. The MoU was signed by Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, and Prof. Bhrigu Nath Singh, Vice Chancellor, RGNAU, in the presence of faculty and officials from both institutions. Under the joint programme, students enrolled in the first semester will study at RGNAU, and will move to IIT Ropar for the second semester. The curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical grounding in UAV technology and hands-on exposure to drone operations and its applications, combining the strengths of both institutions. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Ahuja said the collaboration would open new avenues for research and skill development in drone technology. Both sides pledged to work together to advance technical education, capacity building, and research in this fast-growing domain. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to producing skilled professionals equipped to meet the growing demands of India’s expanding drone and aviation sector.

2026

FlyBy Aviation Academy and WeMakeScholars signs strategic partnership in India

A landmark agreement that makes one of Europe’s leading flight academies more accessible to aspiring Indian pilots through dedicated education loan and scholarship support Burgos, & Hyderabad,10th June 2026:  FlyBy Aviation Academy, one of the largest and most international EASA-approved flight training organisations, has announced the signing of a strategic partnership with WeMakeScholars, India’s leading platform for education financing and scholarships. This protocol marks an important milestone in FlyBy’s long-term commitment to the Indian market — a strategic territory for the Academy, which already operates a dedicated training pathway for Indian cadets through its Indian DGCA programme. This programme is designed to deliver an Indian DGCA-compliant Commercial Pilot Licence supported by world-class European training standards and an EASA license, allowing graduates to hold both EASA and DGCA pilot licenses. Through this partnership, Indian students enrolling at FlyBy Aviation Academy will gain privileged access to WeMakeScholars’ full suite of education finance services, removing one of the most significant barriers faced by aspiring pilots: funding their training. Key Benefits for Indian Students at FlyBy Free, dedicated education loan assistance from WeMakeScholars’ specialist team, with priority handling for FlyBy applicants. Access to competitive loan offers from public sector banks (such as SBI, Bank of Baroda and others), leading private banks and NBFCs, with options for both collateral and non-collateral loans. Comprehensive funding coverage including tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, travel and equipment costs associated with flight training in Portugal. Guidance on available scholarships, government schemes and tax benefits (including Section 80E education-loan interest deduction) to optimise the total cost of training. Single point of contact for both academic and financial onboarding, simplifying the journey from enrolment to first flight. Direct pathway into FlyBy’s ATPL Integrated DGCA programme, specifically designed for cadets who plan to operate with Indian airlines. A Strategic Commitment to India India is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, with Indian carriers projected to require thousands of new pilots over the coming decade. FlyBy Aviation Academy has invested significantly in this market through the creation of a dedicated DGCA-aligned curriculum, Indian student support services and now, with WeMakeScholars, a robust financing pathway that brings world-class flight training within reach of a broader pool of Indian talent. “India is, and will continue to be, a strategic market for FlyBy. Our DGCA Compliant programme already attracts some of the most talented young aviators in the country, and this partnership with WeMakeScholars ensures that talent — not financial constraint — is the only thing that determines who gets to fly.” – Fernando Aguardo, Accountable Manager. ( News based on press release and published unedited, with slight changes in the headline)

Top Stories

Air India opened bookings under hub-and-spoke model from Varanasi

Delhi, 9th June 2026: Air India today opened bookings for its first flights under the Government of India’s hub-and-spoke model, introducing these as ‘Easy Connect’ flights. This is intended to facilitate travellers from cities beyond major hubs to drop baggage and complete immigration at origin airport and travel seamlessly to destinations across the world. Air India’s new Easy Connect flights will commence from Varanasi from 25 June 2026 onwards. The airlines will drive a phased rollout of Easy Connect flights across multiple cities in the months ahead to operationalise seamless international connectivity from India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities at scale. What hub-and-spoke flights mean for travellers Under the hub-and-spoke model, ‘spoke’ cities such as Varanasi are connected to major ‘hub’ airports like Delhi, from where passengers can seamlessly access Air India’s extensive global network. This coordinated structure allows passengers from non-metro cities to connect efficiently to multiple international destinations through a single hub, with optimised schedules and a smooth transit experience. At the heart of the model, designed and implemented by Air India in close coordination with industry stakeholders, is a significantly simplified and more intuitive international travel experience: Through check-in to final destination: Travellers from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities such as Varanasi can check in at their home airport all the way through to their final international destination, with no need to collect or re-check baggage at the hub airport (e.g. Delhi). Immigration at origin: Travellers will complete international immigration formalities at their originating airport, avoiding queues and processing at the hub. Seamless international transit via ‘hub’ airport: Passengers will transit through hub airports like Delhi as international travellers, making connections faster and more efficient. Importantly, travellers also benefit from a familiar and comfortable transit environment within India, avoiding the complexity and unfamiliarity usually associated with transiting through foreign hub airports. Easy Connect flights from Varanasi to the world The designated Easy Connect flight from Varanasi to Delhi will operate daily as AI1111. Within four hours of arrival at Delhi, the flight is timed to provide seamless connections to 17 international destinations, including London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Milan, Rome, Zurich, Manila, Singapore, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Riyadh, and Dubai, among others. Subsequent Easy Connect flights with hub-and-spoke operations from other ‘spoke’ airports will be numbered in the ‘AI11XX’ series, creating a distinct network identity for these services. P. Balaji, Group Head – Governance, Risk, Compliance & Corporate Affairs, Air India, said: “The successful implementation of the hub-and-spoke model requires close coordination across airlines, airports, and multiple government agencies, and we are grateful for the strong collaboration that has enabled this rollout. Air India is committed to continuing to work closely with all stakeholders across the industry and the Government of India as we expand this model to more cities and phases. Together, we are building a more efficient, integrated, and globally competitive aviation ecosystem for India.” The rollout will expand to several additional cities in a phased manner over the coming months, as Air India continues to anchor and lead the implementation of this next-generation connectivity model.

Top Stories

Xiamen Airlines to Host 83rd IATA AGM in 2027

Rio de Janeiro ,9th June 2026: At the International Air Transport Association (IATA) held in Rio de Janeiro, it was announced that Xiamen Airlines will host the 83rd IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) in Xiamen, China, from 30 May to 1 June 2027. “We are excited to bring the 83rd IATA AGM to China, hosted by Xiamen Airlines. China is a major player in the aviation industry. China’s airlines are among the top airlines by passenger traffic in the world. And the country is at the forefront of how technology and digitalization can be deployed to improve efficiency. Hosting the AGM in China will allow the leaders of the global aviation industry to witness first-hand the impressive development of the China market,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “Xiamen Airlines is proud to host the IATA AGM and to welcome our industry colleagues to our home base of Xiamen. China is a vast and culturally diverse country, with many dynamic cities and regions beyond its best-known gateways. Located on China’s southeast coast, Xiamen is an historical port and interface for commerce between China and the rest of the world,” said Zhao Dong, Chairman of Xiamen Airlines. “The opening of Xiang’an International Airport later this year demonstrates how Xiamen is growing its importance as a transportation and business hub. AGM guests can look forward to discovering the rich culture, warm hospitality, coastal beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle that create the distinctive spirit and vitality of Xiamen,” said Xie Bing, CEO & President of Xiamen Airlines. The decision to host the 83rd IATA AGM in China was made at the 82nd IATA AGM in Rio de Janeiro. This is the third time China will host the global gathering of aviation’s top leaders, and the first time it will be held in Xiamen. The AGM was previously held in Shanghai (2002) and Beijing (2012).

2026

Thakur Institute of Aviation: Shaping the Future of Aviation Professionals in Mumbai

The aviation industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, creating exciting career opportunities for young professionals who aspire to work in airlines, airports, customer service, and aviation operations. With the increasing demand for skilled aviation personnel, choosing the right training institute plays a crucial role in building a successful career. Among the leading aviation training institutes in Mumbai, Thakur Institute of Aviation has established itself as a trusted destination for students seeking industry-oriented aviation education and career opportunities. Located in Kandivali (East), Mumbai, Thakur Institute of Aviation (TIA) is committed to providing quality aviation training that combines theoretical knowledge with practical exposure. The institute is approved as a training partner by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and focuses on preparing students for careers in various segments of the aviation industry. Industry-Focused Aviation Courses Thakur Institute of Aviation offers specialized programs designed to meet the requirements of the modern aviation industry. The institute provides training in: Cabin Crew / Air Hostess Airport Ground Handling Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Private Pilot License (PPL) These courses are carefully structured to equip students with industry-relevant skills, communication abilities, customer service expertise, personality development, grooming standards, and operational knowledge required by airlines and airport organizations. The Cabin Crew and Air Hostess program is among the most sought-after courses at TIA. Students receive comprehensive training in passenger handling, inflight service procedures, aviation safety, emergency response, communication skills, and professional grooming. The course aims to prepare candidates for rewarding careers with domestic and international airlines. The Airport Ground Handling program focuses on airport operations, passenger services, baggage management, customer service, aviation security awareness, and airline coordination. This training enables students to pursue careers in airport operations and ground services. For aspiring pilots, TIA offers guidance and training pathways for Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and Private Pilot License (PPL) programs, helping students move closer to achieving their dream of becoming professional pilots. Practical Learning and Modern Training Infrastructure One of the key strengths of Thakur Institute of Aviation is its emphasis on practical learning. The institute believes that aviation education must go beyond classroom teaching and provide students with real-world exposure. Students benefit from hands-on practical training, industry-oriented workshops, first-aid training, grooming sessions conducted by experts, fire-fighting awareness programs, and exposure to aviation equipment and operational procedures. The institute also provides opportunities for industrial visits that help students understand the functioning of the aviation ecosystem. TIA is known for maintaining professional training standards and providing practical exposure that helps students gain confidence before entering the workforce. The focus on industry-relevant curriculum ensures that students are prepared for the expectations of recruiters and aviation employers. Experienced Faculty and Professional Development The success of any educational institution depends largely on the quality of its faculty, and Thakur Institute of Aviation takes pride in its experienced and certified trainers. Students are guided by professionals who understand the practical requirements of the aviation industry and help them develop both technical and soft skills. In addition to aviation-specific knowledge, students receive training in personality development, communication skills, interview preparation, customer service excellence, teamwork, and professional etiquette. These skills are essential for building successful careers in airlines, airports, hospitality, and customer-facing industries. Strong Placement Support and Career Assistance Placement assistance is one of the most important factors students consider while selecting an aviation institute. Thakur Institute of Aviation has established a dedicated Placement Assistance Cell that works closely with students and recruiters to facilitate employment opportunities after course completion. The institute conducts placement support activities, interview preparation sessions, and on-campus recruitment drives. Through its industry connections, TIA helps students connect with airlines, airport service providers, hospitality organizations, travel companies, and customer service employers. Over the years, students from TIA have secured opportunities with reputed aviation and airport organizations. The institute’s placement page highlights successful student placements with leading industry employers, reflecting its commitment to helping students launch their careers. The combination of practical training, industry exposure, and dedicated placement assistance provides students with a strong foundation for professional success. Many students have shared positive experiences about the confidence, skills, and career opportunities they gained through their training at TIA. Why Choose Thakur Institute of Aviation? Students choose Thakur Institute of Aviation for several reasons: NSDC-approved training partner Industry-relevant aviation curriculum Experienced and certified faculty Practical and hands-on learning approach Personality development and grooming programs Industrial visits and real-world exposure Dedicated placement assistance Strong industry network and career support Focus on global aviation opportunities Convenient location in Mumbai’s educational hub at Kandivali (East Conclusion As India’s aviation industry continues to expand, the demand for trained aviation professionals is expected to grow significantly. For students seeking a career in cabin crew services, airport operations, ground handling, or pilot training, Thakur Institute of Aviation offers a comprehensive platform to acquire industry-ready skills and professional confidence. With quality education, practical training, experienced faculty, and dedicated placement assistance, Thakur Institute of Aviation continues to play an important role in shaping the next generation of aviation professionals in Mumbai and beyond. For aspiring aviation professionals, TIA represents a pathway to exciting career opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.  

Civil Aviation

Air India and THAI Airways signs MoU to deepen interline partnership

New Delhi, 8th June 2026: Air India and Thai Airways International (THAI), Thailand’s national carrier, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) building on their existing interline agreement, to explore a deeper partnership aimed at boosting connectivity between Thailand, India, and destinations beyond, leveraging each other’s global network strengths. The MoU was signed on 07 June 2026 on the sidelines of the ongoing IATA AGM in Rio de Jeneiro, Brazil. Air India and THAI intend to enter into a codeshare agreement in 2026, subject to the requisite regulatory approvals, designed to expand travel options for travellers between India and Thailand and deliver enhanced customer value across their respective networks. The two Star Alliance member carriers intend to place their respective designator codes (‘AI’ for Air India and ‘TG’ for THAI) on each other’s flights between India and Thailand as well as on select international routes from the two countries, providing their customers with convenient access to several destinations across Asia, North America, and Europe. The specific terms governing the proposed codeshare agreement will be announced in due course. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said: “India and Thailand are connected by longstanding cultural ties, growing economic engagement, and strong flows of tourism and business travel. As Asia reinforces its position at the centre of global growth, deeper collaboration between leading airlines will be key to enabling that growth by making travel more seamless and accessible. This MoU with Thai Airways brings together two carriers with complementary strengths and a shared commitment to service excellence. It also supports Air India’s broader ambition to strengthen India’s connectivity with the world, offering our customers more choice and greater value.” Chai Eamsiri, Chief Executive Officer, THAI, stated: “The MoU with Air India marks a meaningful milestone in our strategy to strengthen the regional connectivity and better serve to passengers traveling between Thailand, India and destination beyond. It also reflects the shared commitment of both airlines to supporting economic growth, promoting people-to-people exchanges, while contributing to broader cooperation between the two countries.”

People

Daher appoints Michel Denis as its Chief Executive Officer

Orly, France, June 8, 2026:  The Board of Directors of Daher, chaired by Thibault Scaramanga, has decided to establish a strengthened executive leadership structure, composed of a Chief Executive Officer and Aymeric Daher, the Executive Deputy CEO – reflecting a commitment to complementary leadership and continuity. The Board appointed Michel Denis as the Group’s Chief Executive Officer beginning July 1. He has  held several senior executive positions in demanding industrial and service-sector environments. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Manitou Group, a family-owned company. “Michel Denis brings top-tier industrial expertise to Daher, both in leading corporate transformations and in managing the stakeholders of a family-owned business,” said Thibault Scaramanga, Chairman of the Daher Board of Directors. “He also will bring a fresh perspective to our Executive Committee. Together with Aymeric Daher, whose knowledge of the aerospace ecosystem is unparalleled, they will form a complementary and ambitious leadership team dedicated to the Group’s development – today and for the future.” Michel Denis stated, “I would like to thank the Board of Directors for its confidence. It is with great pride and a deep sense of responsibility that I join the Daher Group. Its global stature, family roots, long-term and responsible vision, and leading market position are all remarkable strengths. Mindful of the value of this heritage, I will fully dedicate myself to ensuring its continued prosperity.” Thibault Scaramanga will continue to serve as the Daher Group’s Interim Chief Executive Officer in coordination with Aymeric Daher and the entire Executive Committee until Michel Denis assumes his duties on July 1.

Top Stories

Etihad and TAROM Open New Links Across Eastern Europe

Delhi, 8th June 2026: Etihad Airways and TAROM, the national airline of Romania, have signed a codeshare agreement that connects Etihad’s global guests with Romania and Eastern Europe, and links travellers from Romania to Abu Dhabi. The agreement was signed at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro. Under the partnership, Etihad guests can book a single ticket on TAROM flights from Bucharest to six cities across Romania: Baia Mare, Cluj-Napoca, Iasi, Oradea, Suceava, and Timisoara. The codeshare also extends to four Eastern European capitals: Belgrade, Budapest, Chisinau, and Sofia. Guests from Romania, in turn, can reach Abu Dhabi from Bucharest on Etihad’s new service. The codeshare supports the launch of Etihad’s new Abu Dhabi–Bucharest service on 17 December 2026. Once the new service begins, guests can travel on a single ticket between Bucharest and destinations across Etihad’s network, with bags checked through to the final stop. Arik De, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer, said: “TAROM gives Etihad real depth in Eastern Europe: a flag carrier shaped by more than seven decades of European aviation, and an established network reaching across the country and the wider region. Launching this codeshare ahead of our own Bucharest service means we enter a fast-growing market with genuine scale from day one.” Mircea Nicolae Cotoros, TAROM Chief Commercial Officer, said: “This codeshare with Etihad Airways extends TAROM’s international reach and gives passengers a new connection between Bucharest and Abu Dhabi. It strengthens the link between Romania and the Middle East, supports the continued growth of our network and fostering cultural and economic exchanges.” With the addition of TAROM, Etihad’s partner network now spans 47 codeshare and over 130 interline partners, the largest of any non-alliance airline, giving guests single-ticket and through-fare access to over 350 destinations worldwide.

Business Aviation

RoyalJet appoints Ashok Kumar as VP for Resources and Transformation

UAE,8th June 2026:  RoyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-based global private jet operator, has announced the appointment of Ashok Kumar as Vice-President for Resources and Transformation. He is a seasoned C-suite executive and aviation industry specialist with over 30 years of experience spanning financial leadership, corporate services, and operational excellence. A member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and a Chartered Financial Analyst, he brings a rare combination of deep financial expertise and sector-specific knowledge that has made him a trusted leader across some of the region’s most prominent aviation organizations. Having previously served as Vice President of Finance and Corporate Services at RoyalJet, Ashok has spent nearly two decades with RoyalJet. During his tenure, he oversaw a portfolio generating approximately AED 1 billion in annual revenue and led a team of over 400 employees, driving robust financial management, cost optimization, and enterprise-wide risk strategy. Prior to RoyalJet, Ashok served as Financial Business Support Manager at Gulf Air, one of the Middle East’s legacy carriers. Before that, he spent nine years as Management Accountant at Presidential Flight — the UAE’s elite government aviation directorate, originally established under the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. There, he developed a deep expertise in high-security, mission-critical financial operations. He launched his career at Ernst & Young, where he built a strong foundation in accounting, risk management and financial controls.He is recognised for his ability to maximise profitability through rigorous financial discipline, drive enterprise-wide risk strategies, and lead diverse teams across all organisational levels “I am honoured to take on this expanded mandate at RoyalJet, an organisation I have had the privilege of serving for nearly two decades. As we enter this next chapter, my focus will be on digital transformation and fleet replacement, two strategic priorities that will position RoyalJetfor sustainable growth” said Ashok Kumar, Vice-President, Resources and Transformation, RoyalJet.  

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

The contents published in this website are news covering Aviation, Aerospace and Defence sector. The objective is to provide news in informative form to keep our readers updated of the latest development. We also publish content featured in our print publication Aviation World.We try our best to avoid any factual errors or image displayed here but we ensure immediate corrections to any such thing brought to our notice that might have been published inadvertently. All images and contents are sourced from the relevant organisations media team.

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