Author name: Aviation World

Top Stories

Noida International Airport starts operations as IndiGo flight touch down from Lucknow

Jewar, Greater Noida, 16th June 2026: The Noida International Airport at Jewar, Greater Noida finally becomes a reality with first aircraft operated by IndiGo touched down from Lucknow in the early morning of 15th June 2026. The aircraft had onboard some special passengers as the citizens who handed over their land to airport officials for developing India’s most awaited and talked about airport. Onboard as the exited first timers both the male and female citizens of Jewar Village seemed happy while giving media bytes sharing their excitement and pride in becoming the privileged first passengers. The airport launch carrier IndiGo has started operations from DXN to many major airports across India. In its earlier press note, the airlines had mentioned that once operational, they will connect over 16 cities across the country through direct flights. These include major metro cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, along with important destinations such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Jaipur, Lucknow, Navi Mumbai, Pantnagar and Srinagar. Noida International Airport has plans to be developed in three phases. In March 2026, when it received DGCA clearance to start flight operations, it completed first phase of development where it will serve 12 million passengers annually and will have one runway along with departure and arrival buildings. While addressing the media, Christoph Schnellmann, Vice Chairman, Noida International Airport, said, “We are delighted to welcome our first passengers and flight operations. From the outset, our focus has been on creating an airport that combines operational excellence with an outstanding customer experience. We’re excited that IndiGo has launched operations at the airport today, and we look forward to providing passengers with a smooth, hassle-free experience in an airport that reflects the hospitality, culture and character of this region.” The other carrier Akasa Air has also shown interest in operating from NIA soon and its completing its operational readiness to commence services . However, Air India Express which has shown its interest earlier has temporarily halted its program citing reason due to heavy loss incurred by the TATA group airline in the last FY. ( Image Courtesy: IndiGo/ LinkedIn Page) 

2026

AAIB Interim Statement on the Progress of Investigation into the Accident Involving Air India Flight AI-171

Today marks one year since the tragic accident involving Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 aircraft operating from Ahmedabad to London, which occurred shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, on 12 June 2025. On this solemn occasion, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) expresses its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of all those who lost their lives in the accident. We also acknowledge the enduring pain and loss suffered by all those affected. The AAIB is conducting the investigation in accordance with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017, as amended, and the standards and recommended practices contained in ICAO Annex 13. A Preliminary Report containing factual information was released on 12 July 2025. Over the past year, the investigation team has undertaken an extensive and rigorous examination of all relevant technical, operational, organisational and human factors associated with the accident. This effort has been supported by accredited representatives, technical advisers and subject matter experts from relevant organisations. Significant progress has been made in the examination and analysis of aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine-related components, maintenance and operational records, and other evidence relevant to the investigation. The evidence gathered and the results of various examinations are currently being analysed in a comprehensive and integrated manner. Additional technical evaluations and specialist examinations, wherever considered necessary, will continue to be undertaken to ensure that all findings and conclusions are supported by verified evidence and sound scientific analysis. The AAIB remains firmly committed to conducting a thorough, independent, objective and evidence-based investigation. The Final Report will be released upon completion of all investigative activities and the requisite international review and consultation processes prescribed under ICAO Annex 13. The sole purpose of an accident investigation is to enhance aviation safety through the identification of lessons and safety recommendations, and not to apportion blame or liability. Accordingly, AAIB urges all stakeholders, including the media and the public, to refrain from speculation or premature conclusions while the investigation remains in progress. The AAIB reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, transparency and investigative rigour. Every aspect of the accident will be examined with the utmost care and diligence so that the findings and safety recommendations command the confidence of all stakeholders and contribute meaningfully to the continued safety of civil aviation. Disclaimer: This report is published unedited on as shared basis by PIB

Top Stories

Turkish Airlines carried 7.9 million passengers in May 2026

Istanbul, 12 June 2026: Turkish Airlines has announced its passenger and cargo traffic results for May with 2.5% higher passenger capacity in terms of available seat kilometers compared to that of 2025. In May, number of passengers reached 7.9 million and total load factor realized as 84.0%, marking the highest May record in its history. According to May 2026 Traffic Results: The number of carried passengers recorded as 7.9 million. International load factor was 84.0% while domestic load factor was 84.4%. Available seat kilometers (ASK), increased by 2.5% to 23.2 billion during the period of May 2026 from 22.6 billion for the same period of 2025. Cargo/Mail carried during the period of May 2026 increased by 8.6% from May 2025, totaling 203.1 thousand tons. According to the January-May 2026 Traffic Results: The total number of passengers increased by 7.3% to 36.4 million compared to the same period of 2025. Total load factor was recorded 83.6%. International load factor was 83.5% while domestic load factor was 84.3%. Available seat kilometers (ASK) increased by 6.5% to 112.1 billion from 105.3 billion for the same period of 2025. Cargo/Mail carried during this period increased by 13.5% to 954.6 thousand tons from 840.7thousand tons in the same period of 2025. By the end of May 2026, the number of aircraft in the fleet was 542. Traffic results are consolidated and include Turkish Airlines main brand and AJet data.

Top Stories

SriLankan Airlines expands passenger connectivity across Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka

New Delhi,12 June 2026: SriLankan Airlines has announced strategic partnerships with Saudia (SV) and Flynas (XY), further strengthening air travel links between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka. This collaboration significantly expands SriLankan Airlines’ network reach, enabling travellers to access a wider range of destinations through convenient domestic and international connections. Under this arrangement, Saudia provides access to seven international and thirteen domestic destinations, while Flynas contributes an additional eight international and six domestic destinations, offering passengers greater travel flexibility and improved accessibility across the Kingdom. Through Saudia’s network, passengers can connect from destinations including Amman, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Cairo, Dubai, Kuwait City and Los Angeles, together with key domestic points such as Jeddah, Abha, Madinah and Tabuk, among others across Saudi Arabia. Flynas further extends the network with international services from Addis Ababa, Karachi, Giza, Tashkent and Sohag, alongside domestic connectivity from cities including Jizan, Najran, Dammam and Jeddah. Passengers travelling from across Saudi Arabia can now connect seamlessly via Riyadh and Dammam onto SriLankan Airlines’ daily services to Colombo, with onward access to destinations throughout the airline’s international network. SriLankan Airlines currently operates daily flights from both Riyadh and Dammam to Colombo, catering to growing demand for business, leisure and visiting-friends-and-relatives (VFR) travel between the two countries. Dimuthu Tennakoon, Head of Commercial, said, “This partnership represents an important step in expanding SriLankan Airlines’ presence across Saudi Arabia while strengthening links to key destinations in the Middle East, Africa and North America. Working together with Saudia and Flynas enables us to offer customers smoother connections from multiple regional and international destinations into Sri Lanka and beyond.” Commenting on the partnership, Thusitha Wickramasinghe, Manager Saudi Arabia, stated,“We are delighted to partner with Saudia and Flynas to further strengthen air travel links between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka. This collaboration offers passengers greater convenience, expanded travel options and seamless journeys across our combined networks, while enhancing the overall travel experience through improved network integration.” SriLankan Airlines connects passengers to 131 destinations across 63 countries through its own services and codeshare partnerships, while operating direct services to 34 destinations worldwide. Its network spans Europe, Australia, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia and the Far East. The airline operates an all-Airbus fleet comprising state-of-the-art A330-200/300 and A320/321 aircraft.

2026

Akasa Air launches Akasa SkyCadet pilot training programme

Delhi, June 11, 2026: Akasa Air has announced the launch of Akasa SkyCadet – a pilot training programme designed to develop future-ready commercial pilots through comprehensive aviation training aligned with DGCA regulations and the airline’s global operational standards. This initiative underscores the airline’s continued investment in talent development, operational excellence, and building a future-ready pipeline of commercial pilots in the fast-growing aviation industry. The programme has been developed in collaboration with approved Flight Training Organisations namely: Skynex Aero and Dunes Aviation Academy. The programme is designed to nurture aspiring pilots by combining comprehensive aviation education, flight training, and airline-aligned preparedness. Commenting on the launch, Belson Coutinho, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Akasa Air said, “India’s aviation industry is entering a phase of sustained long-term growth, and building a future-ready workforce will be critical to supporting this expansion responsibly. At Akasa Air, we have always believed that our people will be the cornerstone of our success. The Akasa SkyCadet Programme reflects our commitment to investing in talent from the grassroots level and creating structured pathways for aspiring pilots to build meaningful careers in aviation. Beyond technical capability, the programme is designed to instil a strong culture of safety, operational excellence, discipline, and service orientation – the values that define Akasa Air. As we continue to scale our operations, we are focused on nurturing skilled professionals who can grow with us and contribute to the future of Indian aviation.” The programme provides an integrated and progressive learning pathway through three distinct phases: Ground School: A comprehensive theoretical curriculum covering air regulations, navigation, meteorology, aircraft technical knowledge, and human performance to prepare cadets for DGCA examinations and subsequent flight training. Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Flight Training: Structured dual and solo flying training focused on building operational proficiency through navigation, instrument, and cross-country flying in accordance with DGCA and ICAO standards. Type Rating on Boeing 737 MAX: Advanced simulator and aircraft systems training designed to prepare cadets for commercial jet operations on the Boeing 737 MAX fleet.

MRO

Honeywell delivers first TPE331 12B engine For HAL HTT‑40 trainer aircraft

Bengaluru,June 11, 2026: Honeywell has delivered three TPE331‑12B engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) HTT‑40 basic trainer aircraft for the Indian Air Force.The delivery extends Honeywell’s decades-long collaboration with HAL and advances India’s efforts to expand in-country aerospace manufacturing and long-term support. The TPE331‑12B engine has long record of performance in global military training fleets, including extensive service with Britain’s Ministry of Defence on the Short Tucano. Its selection for the HTT‑40 brings a proven propulsion system to India’s newest trainer aircraft and supports the Air Force’s requirement for reliable, responsive performance in a demanding training environment. “The TPE331’s single-shaft design delivers immediate throttle response, which is critical for pilot training,” said Thandava Edara, Vice President of engineering and head of aerospace engineering, India, Honeywell Technology Solutions. “Our work with HAL and the Indian Air Force underscores our shared commitment to strengthening local manufacturing, assembly and long‑term support capabilities in India.” HAL and Honeywell have collaborated for decades on the TPE331 engine family, including Transfer of Technology (ToT) for manufacturing and repair of TPE331-5 engines used on the Do-228 aircraft, and the supply of key components across HAL programs.The HTT-40, HAL’s indigenously developed basic trainer aircraft, is now in production for the Indian Defence Forces and is powered by Honeywell’s TPE331-12B engines. “These deliveries mark a significant milestone for the HTT-40 program, and we are confident future engine deliveries will continue on schedule,” said Mr. Ravi K, chairman and managing director, HAL.“We look forward to deepening this partnership.” Honeywell will supply the first 16 engines for the fleet, after which HAL will begin local engine assembly and expand in-country repair and overhaul capabilities. Over the coming years, more than 80 engines are planned to support the HTT‑40 program, further building India’s expertise in engine sustainment. HAL’s experience with the TPE engine family will support long‑term operation and maintenance of the HTT‑40 aircraft. Developed for multiple applications within military, regional airline, agricultural and general aviation aircraft, TPE series engines now include 18 engine models and 106 configurations. To date, more than 13,000 engines have been delivered with more than 122 million hours of flight time, making the TPE331 one of the most reliable and proven turboprop engines in the world.

Business Aviation

Gulfstream delivers 100th G700 and completes 100th G700 speed record

SAVANNAH, Ga., June 11, 2026 : Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced its 100th customer delivery and the 100th city-pair speed record for the Gulfstream G700, underscoring the exceptional performance and speed of the aircraft, backed by Gulfstream’s advanced manufacturing excellence and widespread customer demand. “The G700 has once again set a new benchmark, firmly establishing itself as the business aviation industry flagship,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “As deliveries have increased, so has customer demand. Thanks to the investments Gulfstream and our parent company, General Dynamics, have made in next‑generation manufacturing technology and facilities, the G700 quality and maturity are second to none. I am incredibly proud of the Gulfstream team, whose dedication and expertise continues to create and deliver the world’s finest aviation experience.” The 100th G700 city-pair speed record connected Savannah with San Jose, California, in 4 hours and 36 minutes at an average cruise speed of Mach 0.91. The aircraft then flew from San Jose to Teterboro, New Jersey, making that record-setting flight in 4 hours and 14 minutes, also at Mach 0.91. The G700 is produced at Gulfstream’s advanced manufacturing campus in Savannah, which enhances operational efficiency through high‑technology tooling, advanced robotics and precision assembly methods. As a result, customers benefit from aircraft that roll off the production line demonstrating exceptional performance from day one. With Gulfstream’s next‑generation Symmetry Flight Deck, the G700 features active control sidesticks and the industry’s most extensive use of touch-screen technology paired with Phase‑of‑Flight intelligence, which reduces pilot workload to help enhance safety. Additional safety features include Gulfstream’s Combined Vision System on dual head‑up display, merging Enhanced Flight Vision System and Synthetic Vision System into a single image to increase pilot situational awareness and open access to more airports. More than 700 pilots have been trained and type rated by FlightSafety International, a further testament to the widespread appeal of the Symmetry Flight Deck’s innovative technology and pilot-centric design. The G700 has earned certification in more than 20 countries and is in service with customers around the world. Featuring the most spacious cabin in the industry, the G700 can fly 7,750 nautical miles/14,353 kilometers at Mach 0.85 or 6,650 nm/12,316 km at Mach 0.90 and has a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935. The Gulfstream Cabin Experience with 100% fresh air, abundant natural light from 20 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows, and the industry’s lowest cabin altitudes at the highest elevations practically eliminates jet lag over the ultralong-range routes the G700 was designed to fly. ( News published unedited on the basis of PR)

Civil Aviation

Centrum Air adds more capacity on India route

New Delhi, India, 11th June 2026: Centrum Air, Uzbekistan based airline, has announced an increase in its flight frequencies between India and Uzbekistan, further strengthening connectivity between the two countries. The airline will now operate five weekly flights, offering greater flexibility, convenience, and travel options for passengers.The enhanced schedule reflects the growing demand for travel between India and Uzbekistan,driven by increasing tourism, business exchanges, medical travel, and cultural ties.The additional frequencies are expected to support both leisure and corporate travellers while contributing to the continued growth of bilateral tourism and trade. Since entering the Indian market, Centrum Air has witnessed encouraging passenger demand,particularly from travellers seeking seamless access to Uzbekistan’s historic cities, cultural attractions, and expanding business opportunities. The increase to five weekly services demonstrates the airline’s commitment to the Indian market and its long-term growth strategy in the region. Speaking on the development, Abdulaziz Abdurakhmanov, Founder and CEO of Centrum Holding, said, “India remains one of the most important international markets for Centrum Air. The increase in frequencies is a direct response to growing passenger demand and reflects our confidence in the market’s potential. We are committed to offering reliable, comfortable, and affordable travel options while strengthening connectivity between India and Uzbekistan.” The enhanced services will provide travellers with greater scheduling flexibility and improved connectivity across Centrum Air’s growing network. Passengers will also benefit from convenient onward access to key destinations within Uzbekistan and the wider Central Asian region. Abhishek Goyal, CEO & Executive Director, Aeroprime Group, the airline’s GSA partner in India, added, “The response to Centrum Air’s services from Indian travellers and the trade community has been extremely encouraging. Increasing operations to five weekly flights is a significant milestone that reflects the strength of the India-Uzbekistan travel corridor. We look forward to supporting Centrum Air’s continued expansion and making Uzbekistan more accessible than ever for Indian travellers.”

Technology

Deutsche Aircraft and INERATEC demonstrate fuel-to-flight concept at ILA Berlin

Berlin, Germany, 11 June 2026 : Deutsche Aircraft and INERATEC are advancing their collaboration to demonstrate a fully integrated fuel-to-flight solution for sustainable and resilient aviation at ILA Berlin. At the centre of the showcase is the combination of the D328ecoand D328 Multi-Role (MR) aircraft platforms with INERATEC’s modular synthetic fuel production systems, enabling decentralised air operations in remote and infrastructure-limited environments. The concept is presented within the framework of the EASP AIR I-COP Mission Management system,which integrates surveillance, rescue and communication capabilities. A D328 Multi-Role Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) is on display, alongside a containerised fuel production unit, autonomous refuelling concepts and mission payload capabilities — demonstrating an autonomous operational ecosystem. INERATEC’s Power-to-Liquid technology produces synthetic aviation fuel from CO₂ and renewable hydrogen directly at the point of use, reducing logistics and increasing operational resilience. Currently, the fuel requires blending with conventional Jet A-1 (e.g. up to 50% SAF), enabling practical deployment today while supporting the transition to higher synthetic fuel shares. The D328eco platform, designed as a SAF-compatible next-generation aircraft, supports the increasing use of synthetic fuels and demonstrates a pathway towards lower-emission aviation and fully synthetic fuel capability. Synthetic aviation fuels offer additional operational advantages, including significantly reduced soot and sulphur emissions, contributing to improved climate impact and air quality. The D328 Multi-Role aircraft, configured for missions such as maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and disaster response, combines advanced sensors, deployable payloads and long-endurance performance — further strengthened by decentralized fuel availability. Together, Deutsche Aircraft and INERATEC are shaping a scalable, integrated aviation ecosystem, linking aircraft, energy production and operations to enable sustainable, flexible and autonomous mission capability worldwide. Wolfgang Kuhl, VP Programs and Innovation at Deutsche Aircraft, said,“At Deutsche Aircraft, we are redefining mission readiness by integrating advanced aircraft platforms with decentralised energy solutions. This collaboration demonstrates how sustainable aviation and operational resilience can go hand-in-hand — especially in remote and demanding environments.” Maximilian Backhaus, Chief Commercial Officer at INERATEC, added,“INERATEC offers a solution with off-grid-capable modular production systems and climate-neutral e-fuels. Locally produced energy sources are independent, flexible and sustainable, and make our supply resilient wherever it is needed most. Together with Deutsche Aircraft, we are demonstrating how local fuel production can directly power advanced aviation missions reliably and at scale.”

2026

flydubai announces new daily service to Pokhara, expanding connectivity to Nepal

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 11 June 2026:  flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, has announced the launch of a new daily service to Pokhara International Airport (PHH), marking its second destination in Nepal. The direct flights will commence on 23 September 2026, operating from Terminal 3 at Dubai International (DXB). With the start of daily flights to Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest city and tourism capital, flydubai becomes the first carrier to service this vital route directly from the United Arab Emirates. The announcement marks a significant expansion of flydubai’s presence in Nepal, where it has successfully operated since 2009 and carried approximately four million passengers to date. ​ Commenting on the launch of operations, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said, “Nepal has remained an exceptionally important market for flydubai since we first launched operations to Kathmandu in 2009, and introducing direct flights to Pokhara underscores our ongoing commitment to supporting free flows of trade and tourism between the UAE and Nepal. By providing a direct link to Nepal’s second largest city and another gateway to the market, we are proud to leverage Dubai’s position as a world-class aviation hub to open new avenues of accessibility for both business and leisure travellers.” Sudhir Sreedharan, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations at flydubai, said, “We are delighted to expand our footprint in Nepal with daily operations to Pokhara, offering our passengers more flexibility and choice across our network. This new route is strategically positioned to cater to strong demand from the UAE and the wider flydubai network, offering convenient, reliable connections for travellers coming from the GCC, the Middle East and Europe, as well as further afield through our codeshare partnership and interline partners. Passengers on this route can look forward to experiencing our high-quality service, whether they travel in Business Class with its added comfort and privacy, or in our elevated Economy Class experience.”

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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