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    FLY91 orders record 40 ATR 72-600 aircraft,largest by a regional airline

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    New Delhi, September 04, 2026:  In a landmark development for India’s regional aviation sector, FLY91 has signed a firm order for 40 ATR 72-600 aircraft, marking the largest ATR order globally by any regional airline. This sets the stage for one of the most significant fleet expansions by a regional carrier in India. The landmark deal, valued at approximately $1 billion, marks a defining milestone in India’s regional aviation journey and is set to be a game-changer for regional aviation in the country. In just two and a half years since commencing operations, Goa based FLY91 has built a strong operating foundation, having operated more than 15,000 flights and close to 280 weekly flights to 12 cities, with its 13th destination set to commence later this month. From its current fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft, FLY91 is now poised for exponential expansion to more than 60 aircraft over the coming years. The landmark order for 40 aircraft will provide the scale to build a much larger regional network and connect more unserved and under served cities across the country. The order marks a defining step in FLY91’s ambition to build a dedicated regional aviation network for Connecting Bharat. This comes at a time when the Government of India is giving fresh impetus to regional connectivity through the newly announced UDAN 2.0 framework. The signing ceremony took place at Udaan Bhawan, Ministry of Civil Aviation, in New Delhi, in the presence of Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Union Minister for Civil Aviation; Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ATR, Alexis Vidal, Chief Commercial Officer, ATR, Manoj Chacko, Founder, Managing Director and CEO, FLY91 and Harsha Raghavan, Chairman, FLY91 and Managing Partner Convergent Finance, along with ministry officials and other dignitaries. The order further strengthens ATR’s presence in India, one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. With its strong fuel efficiency, lower emissions and ability to operate effectively from shorter runways, the ATR 72-600 is the perfect aircraft for regional flying in India. The Minister for Civil Aviation, said, “Regional connectivity is a fundamental pillar of India’s aviation growth story, and bridging smaller cities with major economic hubs remains a national priority. The Government’s Rs.28,840 crore investment under the UDAN 2.0 framework reflects our strong commitment to expanding regional air connectivity and bringing more tier 2 and tier 3 cities into the national economic mainstream. FLY91’s track record and its landmark fleet commitment reflects the confidence that India’s aviation sector continues to inspire, and investments of this scale in regional capacity will play a vital role in translating this vision into reality.” Manoj Chacko, Founder, Managing Director and CEO, FLY91, said, “FLY91 was built on a singular conviction that India needs a dedicated regional airline focused on connecting emerging cities directly and efficiently. We have grown steadily and consistently since our launch, and this 40-aircraft order becomes the foundation for our next chapter. Having operated more than 15,000 flights in just two and a half years, we have built the operating experience and foundation to now scale significantly. Together with ATR, we are building the regional aviation network that Bharat deserves, one that unlocks opportunity, strengthens local economies, and truly keeps Bharat Unbound.” Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer, ATR, said, “We are incredibly proud that FLY91 has chosen ATR to support this new phase of its development. This expansion aligns closely with the Indian Government’s ambition to strengthen regional connectivity through UDAN, bringing affordable and reliable air transport to underserved communities. The ATR 72-600 combines unmatched economics, efficiency and reliability, enabling airlines to offer affordable fares while connecting millions of passengers to opportunities across India.” Harsha Raghavan, Chairman, FLY91 and Managing Partner, Convergent Finance, said: “As a founding partner of FLY91 and its lead investor, we have believed from the outset in the convergence of two powerful opportunities: India’s growth story and the potential of regional aviation. This 40-aircraft order is a defining milestone for FLY91 and provides the platform to scale our vision over the coming years. We believe regional connectivity will be a critical enabler of India’s next phase of growth, linking emerging economic centres, businesses and communities across the country.” Since commencing commercial operations, FLY91 has pursued steady and measured growth as a pure-play regional carrier. In just two and a half years, the airline has operated more than 15,000 flights and currently operates close to 280 weekly flights across 12 destinations. Its 13th destination is scheduled to commence later this month. The airline currently operates a fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft across its regional network.

    2026

    Smiths Detection achieves TSA Level 2AB certification for checkpoint screening

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    The certification, with Smiths Detection Computed Tomography (CT) systems, enables advanced threat detection and more efficient checkpoint operations. London,28 August 2026: Smiths Detection, a global provider of threat detection and security screening technologies, announced that it has achieved Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Level 2AB certification for prohibited item (PI) detection software to be used at airport checkpoints. Level 2AB certification confirms that Smiths Detection’s software meets TSA’s most rigorous explosive detection standard for checkpoint screening at US airports. This certification supports TSA’s goals of strengthening security, improving efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience. When deployed with Smiths Detection computed tomography (CT) systems, the certified software uses machine learning to assess carry-on baggage images and identify those requiring operator attention. Philip Tackett, Ph.D., VP of Technology at Smiths Detection Inc, said,“Achieving TSA Level 2AB certification is an important milestone for checkpoint security and reflects the strength of our automated detection capabilities. We are proud to support TSA’s continued modernization of the passenger checkpoint.” The certification builds on Smiths Detection’s existing CT deployments across US airports and demonstrates how advanced detection software can enhance checkpoint operations.

    2026

    Swedavia appoints Anders Ornulf as new CFO

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    Swedan, 27th August 2026: Swedavia has appointed Anders Ornulf to its new CFO as well as a new member of Swedavia’s Group management team. Anders Ornulf will assume the position by October 19. Anders Örnulf brings extensive experience from senior finance leadership roles and most recently held the position of CFO at Hemnet. “I am delighted to welcome Anders Örnulf to Swedavia. We are on an important journey to place the customer at the center of everything we do while continuing to strengthen our profitability. With his expertise and experience from companies such as Hemnet and SkiStar, I am confident that Anders will make a significant contribution to this work,” says Mats Johannesson, president and CEO of Swedavia. “Swedavia’s airports play a vital role in Sweden’s connectivity and competitiveness. I am truly looking forward to becoming part of the team and contributing to the continued development,” says Anders Örnulf. The Swedavia Group owns, operates and is developing 10 airports throughout Sweden.

    Civil Aviation

    SriLankan Airlines Expands Passenger Connectivity Across Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka

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    New Delhi, 27 August 2026:  SriLankan Airlines has resumed its full flight operation in the Middle East with six weekly flights to Kuwait from 8 August 2026, completing the restoration of its network across the region. It’s Middle East network spans Riyadh, Dammam, Dubai, Doha and Kuwait offering passengers seamless connections via Colombo between the Middle East and southern Indian cities, including Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Thiruvananthapuram, Madurai and Cochin, in under 90 minutes. Dimuthu Tennakoon, Head of Commercial at SriLankan Airlines, stated, “As an airline that has been connecting passengers to the Middle East for over 40 years, including our loyal passengers in South India who have relied on our services throughout that time, we are delighted to announce our full return to the region. This milestone marks not only the restoration of convenient connectivity, but also the return of the dependable service and warm Sri Lankan hospitality that have made us a preferred carrier for travellers across South Asia.” Fawzan Fareid, Regional Manager India, Bangladesh and Nepal at SriLankan Airlines, added, “Our Middle East network has long been a vital part of our service to customers in South India. While the past few months presented significant challenges for our Middle East operations, we remained resilient by strengthening other markets and staying committed to serving our customers across India. As we restore our full Middle East network, we are excited to build on this momentum with renewed confidence and continue delivering the seamless connectivity, dependable service and warm SriLankan hospitality that our passengers value.” With 90 weekly flights between India and Colombo, SriLankan counts India as its largest market.

    2026

    ADE delivers record 2Q26 performance as revenue rises 29% YoY to RM284 million

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    Kuala Lumpur, 27 August 2026 : Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), the MRO subsidiary of Capital A Berhad delivered a record quarterly performance for the second quarter ended 30 June 2026, with revenue rising to RM284 million – a 29% YoY increase from the corresponding quarter in 2025. The strong momentum was fueled by higher-value base maintenance checks and a surge in workshop orders, driven by an increase in component repair and refurbishment, aligned with the induction of heavier base maintenance checks. ADE delivered a record quarterly performance, as revenue rose to RM284 million – a 29% YoY increase from the corresponding quarter in 2025. The strong momentum was fueled by higher-value base maintenance checks and a surge in workshop orders, driven by an increase in component repair and refurbishment, aligned with the induction of heavier base maintenance checks. EBITDA rose to RM69 million while maintaining a high 22% margin. Profitability remained strong with a 14% PAT margin, supported by strategic debt refinancing, successfully offsetting increased depreciation from new tools acquisition. On a cumulative basis, ADE achieved over half a billion revenue for the 1H2026, marking a 19% YoY increase. Operational efficiency drove significant growth, with EBITDA and NOP rising by 16% and 52% , respectively, to RM112 million and RM62 million. ADE’s strong first-half performance also contributed significantly to Capital A’s overall growth momentum. Alongside Teleport, ADE accounted for over 70% of total 1H26 Group revenue, highlighting the strength and scalability of Capital A’s core businesses following the successful disposal of its airline business and official exit from PN17.

    Defence

    Gripen F completes its first flight

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    The two-seat fighter, developed by Saab in partnership with Brazilian industry, accelerates training and enhances operational performance. Sweden,28th August 2026: Saab has successfully completed the first flight of Gripen F, the two-seat variant of Gripen E. The aircraft took off at 09:40 local time from Saab’s airfield in Linköping, Sweden, and remained airborne for 40 minutes. The flight was conducted at Saab’s airfield in Linköping by Saab chief test pilot Jakob Högberg and Brazilian Air Force test pilot Lieutenant Colonel Aviator Abdon de Rezende Vasconcelos. This inaugural sortie successfully verified the functionality of the aircraft core systems and its initial flight performance. “This first flight represents an important step forward for both Saab and the Brazilian Air Force. Seeing Gripen F take to the skies is particularly significant for all the Swedish and Brazilian teams whose years of engineering work have helped turn this aircraft into a reality. It is designed to accelerate pilot training while and enhancing operational performance in advanced combat missions,” says Lars Tossman, head of Saab business area Aeronautics. With this mission, Gripen F enters the airborne phase of its test campaign. Following the initial production acceptance flights, the programme will move into a progressive envelope expansion phase, in which the aircraft full performance limits — including speed, altitude, G-load and angle of attack — will be cleared step by step. In parallel, tactical capabilities and rear cockpit functions specific to the two-seat configuration will also be evaluated. Gripen F is the result of the strategic partnership between Brazil and Sweden, as well as the extensive technology transfer carried out under the Brazilian Gripen Programme. More than 350 Brazilian engineers, technicians and pilots have participated in training activities related to the development, production, flight testing and maintenance of the aircraft. As the launch customer, Brazil played an active role in the co-development of the two-seat variant, enabling direct industrial participation and long-term cooperation. The campaign will be conducted by Saab’s Flight Test Centre in Sweden. Once the planned activities and aircraft acceptance procedures have been completed, Gripen F will be prepared for delivery to the Brazilian Air Force.

    Defence

    India-Kuwait Joint Defence Committee meeting held in New Delhi

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    Delhi, 28th August 2026: The inaugural meeting of the India-Kuwait Joint Defence Committee (JDC) was held in New Delhi on August 28, 2026. Both countries agreed to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation across a wide range of areas, including training, military exercises, military medicine, staff talks, defence industry, and Research & Development (R&D). The first meeting of the JDC marked an important step towards operationalising the objectives outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation between India and Kuwait, signed during the visit of Prime Minister of India to Kuwait in December 2024. The meeting was co-chaired by Joint Secretary Shri Amitabh Prasad and Brigadier General Raed Alsakran of the five-member Kuwaiti delegation. The Indian delegation comprised representatives from the three Services, Department of Defence Production, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Armed Forces Medical Services and Ministry of External Affairs. Ahead of the JDC meeting, Brigadier General Raed Alsakran laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, New Delhi, and paid homage to the fallen heroes. The Kuwaiti delegation visited DPSU Bhawan, New Delhi, on the first day of their visit, where discussions were held with representatives of the Indian defence industry on potential areas of mutual cooperation. An industry interaction with the Kuwaiti delegation is also scheduled for the second day of the visit. India and Kuwait enjoy traditionally warm and friendly relations, rooted in historical ties that have stood the test of time. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1962. The relationship was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership during the visit of Prime Minister of India to Kuwait in December 2024. Geographic proximity, historical trade links, cultural affinities, and the presence of a large Indian community in Kuwait continue to sustain and nurture the longstanding and multifaceted relationship between the two countries. (Courtesy: PIB/MoD)  

    Cargo

    The Queen of the Skies arrives at Navi Mumbai International Airport

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    Navi Mumbai,26th August 2026: National Airlines’ iconic Boeing 747-400F freighter landed at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) and was welcomed with a water cannon salute. The arrival of the legendary wide-body aircraft on 26th August, carrying cargo, marks a notable moment in the airport’s expanding international cargo operations. The aircraft operated from Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (Germany) to Navi Mumbai(India). The arrival sets a record for NMIA’s rapidly expanding cargo operations, following recent freight launches by IndiGo, Afcom, and Hong Kong Air Cargo.

    2026

    SalamAir establishes Salalah’s first-ever airline base

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    Muscat,26th August 2026 : SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost carrier, has established Salalah’s first-ever airline base, marking a strategic milestone in the airline’s growth and significantly strengthening direct international connectivity from the Governorate of Dhofar. The Salalah-based operation will initially serve three direct international destinations: Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, Chattogram in Bangladesh, and Calicut in India. Bookings will open on 26 August 2026, with flights scheduled to commence from the end of October as part of SalamAir’s Winter 2026 schedule.  The establishment of the base builds on SalamAir’s strong support for travel to and from Salalah during the 2026 Khareef season and its contribution to the season’s success. In response to increased demand, the airline expanded capacity on the Muscat–Salalah route, operating up to 15 daily flights during the peak period and adding thousands of additional seats. SalamAir also supported affordable domestic travel through special fares for Omani nationals, with one-way fares starting from OMR 9.99, providing greater accessibility and travel options between Muscat and Salalah. These efforts supported the growing flow of visitors to Dhofar and reinforced SalamAir’s role in the tourism and travel ecosystem during one of the Sultanate’s most important tourism seasons. Building on this momentum, the new base will extend SalamAir’s contribution beyond the Khareef season, supporting the year-round travel needs of residents and expatriate communities in Dhofar while providing more convenient direct access to key regional and international destinations. The operation will be supported by SalamAir’s Airbus A320neo and A321neo fleet. The airline currently operates 18 aircraft, providing the capacity and operational flexibility to respond to growing demand across its markets. Commenting on the announcement, Adrian Hamilton-Manns, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, said, “We are proud to turn our long-standing commitment to Salalah and the people of Dhofar into action. Over successive Khareef seasons, SalamAir has continued to increase capacity and provide affordable travel options to meet growing demand. Building on this strong track record, establishing Salalah’s first-ever airline base marks an important milestone. By positioning an aircraft in Salalah, we will strengthen direct international connectivity, provide greater travel choices for the community, and support Salalah’s continued growth as a year-round tourism and economic destination for Oman.” During the winter season, SalamAir will also operate charter services connecting Salalah with Astana and Almaty in Kazakhstan, supporting inbound tourism from Central Asia and helping broaden Salalah’s appeal beyond its traditional peak season. The Salalah base forms part of SalamAir’s wider growth strategy to expand its network from key airports across the Sultanate, serve underserved markets and stimulate new travel demand. The initiative further supports the development of Oman’s aviation and tourism sectors while strengthening Dhofar’s links with international markets.    

    Top Stories

    Air India and Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines strengthen India-Bhutan connectivity with new interline agreement

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    Delhi, 26th August 2026: Air India and Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines have announced new interline partnership to significantly enhance seamless travel convenience and strengthen network connectivity between India, Bhutan and beyond. The partnership enables passengers to benefit from a single-ticket itinerary combining Air India and Drukair flights, ensuring a seamless end-to-end travel experience. It offers coordinated baggage and passenger through transfer to the final destination, delivering a seamless travel experience via Air India’s hub at Delhi – Indira Gandhi International Airport. Passengers will also benefit from competitive interline fares, providing enhanced flexibility, improved connectivity, and greater overall value. The partnership enables Air India guests to seamlessly travel to Paro, via Delhi from across Air India’s expanding international network. It also provides convenient onward connections within Bhutan, from Paro to Bumthang, Gelephu, and Yonphula.With this partnership, Air India offers seamless connectivity to nearly all countries in the SAARC region through its own or partner network. Reciprocally, Drukair passengers gain direct access via Delhi, Guwahati, and Kolkata to Air India’s extensive domestic network, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Kochi, as well as a wide range of major international destinations such as Paris Charles de Gaulle, Colombo, Newark, Frankfurt, New York (JFK), London (Heathrow), Melbourne, San Francisco, Sydney, Toronto Pearson, and Vancouver. Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said, “Our partnership with Drukair reinforces our commitment to strengthening connectivity across the SAARC region, which we consider our extended home market. Bhutan is a valued part of this region, and we are happy to enable easy access to Bhutan for our guests and look forward to welcoming Drukair’s passengers onto Air India’s extensive domestic and global network. Tandi Wangchuk, Chief Executive Officer of Drukair, said, “This partnership marks a significant milestone for Drukair as we continue to strengthen our global connectivity and enhance the travel experience for our passengers. Through this interline partnership with Air India, our customers will benefit from seamless journeys, expanded access to key international markets, and improved connectivity across India and beyond.” This partnership is expected to further support tourism and business travel, while offering passengers greater accessibility, convenience, and value.

    FOREWORD

    Dear Readers,

    The Asia-Pacific aviation sector is expanding rapidly, driving growth far beyond aircraft numbers into crucial verticals like MRO, training, logistics, and aerospace supply chains. In this edition of Aviation World, we bring you exclusive interviews and features from across these sectors, offering direct industry insights from top global leadership.

    Our cover story highlights Shveta Gupta, CEO of Divyanshi Aviation. Under her dynamic leadership, the company has established itself as one of India’s premier aerospace supply chain providers, partnering with leading global manufacturers. Our corporate feature delves into Divyanshi Aviation’s core operations, paired with an exclusive interview where Ms. Gupta candidly shares her professional journey and vision for the company’s future.

    This issue also features exclusive conversations with prominent industry leaders, including:

    • Ron Nye, President of Avionics, Acron Aviation
    • Bob Gibbs, Vice President, Defense & Special Missions Sales, Textron Aviation
    • Sudhir S. Rajeshirke, President – Aerospace, Jubilant Enpro
    • Emmanuel Simon, Program Manager and Aerospace Leader, PHINIA
    • Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer, Saudia Group
    • Simon Azar, Vice President, Civil Aviation, Asia Pacific, CAE

    Each leader offers key perspectives on their organization’s strategic initiatives and their growing contributions to the Indian aviation and aerospace ecosystem. Additionally, you will find expert-authored analytical features offering deep dives into current sector trends.

    Aviation World continues to expand its global footprint as an official media partner for major domestic and international aviation events. Our editorial team will be participating in several upcoming global forums, and we look forward to connecting with industry peers and exploring new collaborations.

    We extend our sincere gratitude to our advertisers and partners whose continued support fuels our endeavor.

    Happy Reading!

    The Editorial Team

    Aviation World

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    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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