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    Technology

    Diamond Aircraft and FlySight integrate OPENSIGHT mission console for Eurosatory 2026

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    Paris, June 18, 2026: Diamond Aircraft and FlySight announced the integration of FlySight’s OPENSIGHT Mission Console onboard Diamond Aircraft platforms, now fully operational and flying on board the aircraft that will be showcased at Eurosatory 2026.As part of this integration, the aircraft OE-FHQ equipped with the OPENSIGHT Mission Console is already flying over Paris, where it is currently on display this week as part of Diamond Aircraft’s presence at Eurosatory. The Diamond Aircraft platform will take to the skies with the fully integrated OPENSIGHT turnkey Mission Console solution onboard, delivering real-time mission visualization, sensor integration, and advanced geospatial intelligence during flight operations. For this occasion, the aircraft OE-FHQ has also been equipped with dedicated OPENSIGHT branding, further emphasizing the close technical cooperation between the two companies and the operational relevance of the integration (photo attached).  The joint demonstration at Eurosatory 2026 represents an important milestone in the development of next-generation airborne mission solutions, combining advanced aircraft platforms with scalable mission software to support modern defense and security operations worldwide.  “Seeing OPENSIGHT flying onboard this aircraft on its way to Eurosatory is much more than a technical milestone for us. It represents years of vision, persistence, and hard work — a journey that started with an idea and grew into a mission system now trusted in real operational environments. For us, this is not just about technology; it is about seeing our own story, our people, and our commitment taking flight.” said Andrea Masini, CEO of FlySight. Statement from Diamond Aircraft: Diamond Aircraft is committed to delivering highly capable and adaptable airborne platforms that meet the evolving requirements of defence, security, and special mission operators worldwide. The successful integration of FlySight’s OPENSIGHT Mission Console demonstrates the flexibility of our aircraft and our ability to collaborate with leading technology partners to provide complete mission-ready solutions. We are pleased to showcase this integrated capability at our Demo next to the exhibition Eurosatory 2026, highlighting how advanced mission systems and reliable airborne platforms can work together to enhance situational awareness and operational effectiveness.

    Civil Aviation

    Flyadeal ranks as the most On-Time Airline in the Middle East in May 2026

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    Jeddah,18th June 2026:  flyadeal, the Saudia Group’s LCC has been ranked the most on-time airline in the Middle East for May 2026 and the second most on-time airline across the Middle East & Africa region. This is according to the latest On-Time Performance (OTP) Report published by Cirium, a aviation analytics company.As per the report, flyadeal achieved 93.37% on-time arrival rate and a 95.61% on-time departure rate during May. The results are based on 5,449 flights operated by flyadeal during May 2026 and reflect the airline’s continued commitment to delivering a dependable travel experience for its growing number of passengers. Capt. Abdulaziz Bahri, Chief Operating Officer, flyadeal commented: Being recognised by Cirium as the most on time airline in the Middle East is a tremendous achievement for flyadeal and a testament to the dedication of our people. Punctuality is the result of continuously coordinated decisions made every day across our operations. From flight planning and operational control to aircraft maintenance, airport handling and crew scheduling, every team plays a critical role in ensuring our flights depart and arrive on time. Achieving these results during one of the busiest operational periods of the year, coinciding with the 1447H Hajj season, the arrival of pilgrims from several countries, and the operation of additional flights during the Eid Al-Adha holiday, reflects flyadeal’s operational efficiency and its ability to maintain on-time performance while continuing to offer competitive fares to passengers. The airline’s investments in technology, operational planning, and performance management continue to strengthen flyadeal’s ability to maintain high levels of reliability as the airline expands domestically and internationally.

    Cargo

    Hong Kong Air Cargo appoints Aeroprime Group as Cargo GSSA Agent for Delhi

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    New Delhi, 18th June 2026 : Hong Kong Air Cargo has appointed Aeroprime Group as its Cargo General Sales and Services Agent (GSSA) for Delhi, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to expanding its cargo presence in the Indian market and strengthening trade connectivity between India, Hong Kong, and key international destinations. Under the agreement, Aeroprime will be responsible for cargo sales, marketing, customer engagement, and business development activities for Hong Kong Air Cargo’s operations in Delhi. The partnership aims to capitalize on the growing demand for air cargo services between India and East Asia, while providing customers with enhanced access to Hong Kong Air Cargo’s extensive network and cargo capacity. As one of Asia’s leading aviation and logistics hubs, Hong Kong continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating global trade flows. The strategic appointment of Aeroprime Group is expected to further support Indian exporters and freight forwarders by offering efficient and reliable cargo solutions through Hong Kong, one of the world’s busiest international cargo gateways. Commenting on the appointment, Raymond Chen, Vice President, Commercial said: “India remains a strategically important market for Hong Kong Air Cargo. Delhi, in particular, serves as a major gateway for high-value and time-sensitive shipments. We are pleased to partner with Aeroprime, whose deep market understanding, strong industry relationships, and proven cargo expertise will help us strengthen our presence and better serve customers in the region.” Speaking on the partnership,  Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director & CEO, Aeroprime Group, said: “We are delighted to represent Hong Kong Air Cargo in Delhi. Hong Kong remains one of the most important air cargo hubs globally, offering seamless access to major manufacturing, trading, and consumption markets. This partnership reflects our continued commitment to delivering value-driven cargo solutions to the logistics community while supporting Hong Kong Air Cargo’s growth ambitions in India.” The collaboration comes at a time when trade between India and East Asia continues to witness robust growth.

    2026

    Defence production soars to a record Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025-26: Rajnath Singh

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    New Delhi, 18th June 2026: India’s annual defence production has surged to an all-time high of Rs 1.78 lakh crore in the Financial Year (FY) 2025-26. The milestone represents a 15.6% growth over the previous fiscal year’s output of Rs 1.54 lakh crore and a staggering 110% increase since FY 2020-21 when the figure was Rs 84,643 crore. The indigenous defence production has increased almost four times from Rs 43,746 crore in FY 2013-14. Defence Public Sector Undertakings and other PSUs accounted for approximately 76% of total production, while the private sector contributed 24%, which is a rise from 22% in FY 2024-25. The share of the private sector is at its all-time high of around Rs 42,000 crore in FY 2025-26, reflecting its expanding role in the defence ecosystem. The growth in defence production over the years has tremendously contributed in achieving the record defence exports of Rs 38,424 crore in FY 2025-26. The achievement reflects the growing momentum of the Government’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, spearheaded by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. In a post on X, Raksha Mantri  Rajnath Singh credited the inspiring leadership of Prime Minister  Narendra Modi for taking India’s defence production to newer heights, and lauded the collective efforts of the Department of Defence Production and public & private sectors for achieving the landmark. He highlighted that the upward trajectory is a clear indicator of the country’s expanding defence industrial base. With sustained policy support, several new initiatives, increased private sector participation, and growing export capabilities, the defence production sector is poised for continued acceleration in the years ahead, he added. (PIB/MoD)

    2026

    SolitAir appoints ATC as dangerous goods training partner

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    Dubai, June 18, 2026: SolitAir, the UAE’s next-generation dedicated B2B airport-to-airport cargo airline, has appointed Dubai-based Aviation Training Center (ATC) as its preferred training services provider for dangerous goods (DG). The appointment is designed to equip SolitAir’s growing team with the latest approaches, techniques and competencies in the handling and transport of dangerous goods (DG) – acategory of cargo that is both commercially significant and among the most tightly regulated in the industry. The collaboration marks an important step toward strengthening the UAE’s aviation ecosystem, supporting its position as a global hub for safe, efficient and innovative air cargo operations. The transport of dangerous goods by air is governed by a strict, IATA-enforced framework of compliance obligations, revised annually to reflect emerging risks and evolving cargo profiles. The 67th edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, mandatory from 1 January 2026, introduced significant updates across lithium battery shipment requirements, revised state variations and standardised operator variation wording. Hamdi Osman, Founder & CEO, SolitAir said: “The revised requirements enforced by IATA changes underline the need for rigorous, current-edition training across airline operations teams. Through this partnership, SolitAir will ensure our teams remain fully current with these evolving standards, further strengthening the safety, operational excellence and workforce capability already underpinning our DG operations (categories 1-9),which span lithium batteries, flammable liquids and other hazardous materials across our expanding network.” Commenting on the partnership Neeraj Arora, CEO ATC Dubai, said: “Our collaboration with SolitAir underscores our commitment to delivering world-class training solutions that support the evolving needs of the aviation industry. Together, we aim to reinforce safety standards and empower aviation professionals with the competencies required in today’s dynamic operating environment.”

    Top Stories

    Akasa Air launches operations from Noida International Airport

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    Delhi, 17 June 2026: Akasa Air has also commenced operations from Noida International Airport, (NIA) on 16th June after the official inauguration of the airport a day before. The airline’s inaugural flight departed Navi Mumbai International Airport at 0725 hrs and arrived at Noida International Airport at 0935 hrs. The inaugural flight from Noida International Airport, (NIA) departed at 1015hrs and arrived at Navi Mumbai International Airport at 1230 hrs. Anand Srinivasan, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air said,“The commencement of operations from Noida International Airport marks an important milestone in Akasa Air’s growth journey. As one of India’s newest aviation gateways, the airport offers significant opportunities to enhance connectivity for travellers across the National Capital Region and neighbouring states. Our early presence at Noida aligns with our long-term strategy of building a strong network across key growth markets while supporting the development of modern aviation infrastructure. We look forward to deepening our partnership with Noida International Airport and delivering seamless, dependable travel experience to our customers in the Akasa Way,” he added. Christoph Schnellmann, Vice Chairman, Noida International Airport said, “Akasa Air’s arrival at Noida International Airport is an important step in expanding connectivity for our passengers and the region we serve. As one of the first airlines operating from the airport, Akasa Air will help create new travel opportunities and greater choice for passengers. Together, we look forward to providing a seamless and convenient travel experience while creating new opportunities for connectivity, economic growth, and development across Uttar Pradesh and Northern India.”  

    2026

    Royal Jordanian Reinforces Jordan’s position as a reliable middle east gateway for Indian travellers

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    New Delhi, 16th June 2026: At a time when several airlines across the region temporarily suspended operations due to ongoing geopolitical developments, Royal Jordanian continued operating consistently over the past six weeks, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for travellers across the Middle East and beyond. The airline played a critical role not only in maintaining regular travel but also in supporting evacuation and essential movement during the period, reaffirming its commitment to reliability, passenger confidence, and regional connectivity. As global travel steadily regains momentum and traveller confidence begins to return, Royal Jordanian is strategically positioning Jordan as a preferred Middle East gateway for Indian travellers seeking safe, seamless, and culturally rich experiences. “During a period when uncertainty impacted travel sentiment across the region, Royal Jordanian remained operational and committed to serving passengers. Our continued operations reflect the resilience of both the airline and Jordan as a destination,” said a spokesperson from Royal Jordanian. In recent months, Indian outbound travel has been shaped by heightened caution, with travellers closely monitoring developments in the region. While Jordan remained stable and operational throughout, broader regional perceptions led many travellers to postpone plans temporarily. With the situation now easing, Royal Jordanian is witnessing renewed interest from Indian travellers looking for destinations that offer reassurance, accessibility, and meaningful experiences. At the forefront of this effort is the airline’s continued focus on ExploRJordan, a dedicated platform designed to showcase Jordan’s diverse cultural, wellness, adventure, and lifestyle offerings. The initiative aligns strongly with evolving Indian traveller preferences, which are increasingly shifting towards immersive and experience-led journeys. Royal Jordanian is also strengthening Amman’s position as a convenient and efficient hub, enabling Indian travellers to seamlessly connect onwards to the Levant and the wider Middle East through its extensive regional network. This reinforces Jordan’s role not only as a destination in itself but also as a strategic gateway to the region. Reaffirming its long-term commitment to the Indian market, the airline continues to focus on boosting inbound tourism to Jordan through enhanced connectivity, tailored offerings, and consistent engagement with Indian travellers and trade partners. Jordan itself presents a compelling proposition for travellers seeking authentic experiences with fewer crowds. From the timeless wonder of Petra to the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and the therapeutic shores of the Dead Sea, the destination offers a unique blend of heritage, adventure, and wellness. Royal Jordanian continues to support tourism to Jordan through reliable operations, onboard comfort, and seamless connectivity via Amman. As travel demand gradually rebounds, the airline is also introducing competitive fares and flexible travel options, making it an ideal time for Indian travellers to rediscover the region. Backed by operational continuity, stability, and renewed traveller confidence, Royal Jordanian remains committed to strengthening Jordan’s position as a key gateway to the Middle East while deepening its presence in the Indian market.

    Defence

    Garuda Aerospace’s US Subsidiary Partners with Extensee SAS for Airbus Flexrotor Deployments

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    Chennai, June 16, 2026: Garuda Technologies Inc., a US subsidiary of IPO Bound Drone Startup Garuda Aerospace, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Extensee SAS, a provider of drone manufacturing and operational services, at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, France. The partnership aims to expand the deployment of Airbus Flexrotor unmanned aerial systems through a Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) model, combining Garuda’s drone technology expertise with Extensee’s operational capabilities to serve civil, industrial, commercial, and governmental missions across global markets. Under the MoU, the two companies will deploy Airbus Flexrotor UAVs across international markets, leveraging Extensee’s end-to-end operational capabilities, including mission management, flight authorizations, qualified operators and pilots, maintenance support, airworthiness management, safety systems, spare parts management, and technical services to ensure safe and compliant operations. The collaboration will focus on enabling long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), mapping, infrastructure inspection, environmental monitoring, border security, and other commercial and government applications. Equipped with VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) capability, autonomous mission execution, and modular payload integration, the Flexrotor weighs approximately 25 kilograms, remains airborne for 12–14 hours and operates from a compact 3.7m x 3.7m launch area. The platform can autonomously take off and land on both land and ships without requiring a conventional flight deck. Its mission capabilities include infrastructure inspection, disaster response, powerline inspection, railway monitoring, pipeline surveillance, maritime operations, and coordinated surveillance missions. Earlier in March 2026, Garuda Aerospace also signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters to acquire 18 Flexrotor Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) as part of its strategy to expand its unmanned aerial systems leasing services portfolio.  Commenting on the partnership, Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and Director, Garuda Aerospace, said,“This collaboration with Extensee marks an important step in expanding the global reach and operational capabilities of the Airbus Flexrotor drones. By combining Garuda Aerospace’s expertise in advanced drone technology and manufacturing with Extensee’s proven operational excellence, we aim to unlock new opportunities for long-range autonomous missions across civil, industrial, and governmental sectors. Together, we look forward to exploring innovative Drone-as-a-Service solutions that address critical operational challenges and create value globally.”  Jean-Baptiste Olry, President of Extensee SAS, said: “Signing this MoU in Paris, at the heart of Europe’s defence and aerospace ecosystem, is a natural step for Extensee. We have spent years operating unmanned systems for the most demanding institutional and sovereign clients across Europe; from maritime surveillance to public safety missions;  and that operational track record is exactly what turns advanced platforms like the Airbus Flexrotor into a dependable, end-to-end service. Our Drone-as-a-Service model lets clients access long-endurance capabilities without bearing the complexity of ownership, airworthiness and mission management. With Garuda, we look forward to bringing that European operational expertise to new markets worldwide.” With this MoU both organizations will advance into the adoption of next-generation unmanned aerial systems through strategic collaboration and operational excellence.

    Technology

    FAA STC approval for Gogo Galileo HDX installation on the Pilatus PC-12

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    Broomfield, CO.,16 June 2026: SD Government, a Gogo company providing connectivity infrastructure solutions to global governments and military, in partnership with Pilatus and Pro Star Aviation, have received the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for the installation of the Gogo Galileo HDX on the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop. The approval covers multiple variants, including for special missions. The first PC-12 modified by Pilatus to include Gogo Galileo in accordance with the Pro Star STC is expected to return to service imminently. The aircraft is part of a previously announced SD Government federal contract for multi-orbit, multi-band airborne global satellite communications to a US government agency. Gogo Galileo harnesses the power of Eutelsat OneWeb’s low earth orbit (LEO) satellite network to deliver high-speed, low-latency connectivity globally. The Galileo HDX electronically steered antenna (ESA) offers a compact, lightweight, aerodynamic and low-power solution and is minimally invasive to install. This new Gogo Galileo HDX STC will bring formerly unprecedented global connectivity capabilities to government, defense and other special missions PC-12 operators, enabling the streaming of time-sensitive data, including HD video, imagery, secure chat, and even real-time medical information for MEDEVAC purposes. Private and business operators can also take advantage of this new FAA STC, enabling high-speed internet services for users in the cabin and cockpit. Pro Star Aviation, a US Pilatus Sales and Service Center, worked alongside Pilatus to develop and certify the FAA STC. Subsequent European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) approvals are expected as Gogo Galileo HDX becomes available as both a retrofit for in-service PC-12s and a line-fit option for newbuild aircraft. “This certification marks another important step in expanding the capabilities of the PC-12 for government, defense, and special missions operators worldwide. Reliable, high-speed connectivity has become an essential mission requirement, enabling crews and decision-makers to exchange critical information in real time. Through our collaboration with SD Government and Pro Star Aviation, we are pleased to offer a proven connectivity solution that further enhances the versatility, effectiveness, and operational value of the PC-12 platform for customers operating in even the most demanding environments,” says Möhl Oliver, CEO and President of Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd. “We are excited to bring Gogo Galileo HDX to government, defense and special missions PC-12 operators, enabling them to securely stream mission-critical data from the aircraft to connected users, anywhere in the world. The PC-12 is an incredibly popular special missions aircraft – aside from our US Government launch customer, we’re already experiencing high demand for this upgrade from a variety of global operators,” says Ben Massey, SVP of Government Sales for SD Government. “Working directly with Pilatus and Gogo during the preliminary planning phase allowed us all to develop an installation design that is flexible and compatible with the entire in-service fleet as well as new aircraft production,” adds Jeffrey Shaw, Director of Sales and Marketing at Pro Star Aviation.  

    2026

    Air India Express commences flights connecting Pune and Amritsar

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    New Delhi, 16 June-2026: Air India Express has commenced direct flights between Pune and Amritsar. The inaugural flight departed from Pune on June 15, marking the launch of the new service and providing travellers with convenient access to Amritsar. The direct connection offers convenient travel options for leisure travellers, pilgrims, students and business travellers. The new service operates daily, departing Pune at 01:20 hrs and arrives in Amritsar at 04:10 hrs. The return flight will depart Amritsar at 05:00 hrs and arriving in Pune at 07:50 hrs. With the launch of this service, Air India Express now operates about 105 weekly flights from Pune, connecting the city directly to 12 destinations including Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. From Amritsar, Air India Express operates 24 weekly flights, connecting the city to Delhi, Dubai, Pune, and Sharjah.

    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!

    USEFUL LINK

    NEWSLETTER

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    We have started 2026 on a very positive note and we look forward to increase our footprints to more locations and induct many more new companies in our campaign.. Do write to us at : editor@aviationworld.in

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