2026

2026, Tourism

Centrum Air Commences Direct Connectivity Between Hyderabad and Tashkent

New Delhi, 30th September 2026: Centrum Air has commenced a new twice-weekly direct passenger service between Hyderabad and Tashkent, marking a significant step forward in strengthening air connectivity between India and Uzbekistan. The inaugural service took place on 28 September 2026, with a launch ceremony held at Hyderabad International Airport Ltd in association with GMR, customs authorities, senior airport officials and key travel trade stakeholders. The new route establishes Hyderabad as Centrum Air’s second gateway in India, following its Delhi–Tashkent operations. Operating twice weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays, the new Hyderabad–Tashkent service provides passengers from Hyderabad and the wider South Indian region with direct access to Uzbekistan. The new connection is expected to create greater opportunities for tourism, business, trade and cultural exchange between India and Uzbekistan. The service also offers passengers a comfortable onboard experience, with hot meals available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. With Tashkent serving as a key hub for Centrum Air, passengers can also access the airline’s wider network across Central Asia and other international markets. Adil Mirza, Head of Agents Division, Centrum Air, said, “The launch of the Hyderabad–Tashkent route marks an important milestone in Centrum Air’s expansion in India. Hyderabad and the wider South Indian region represent an important market, and this direct service will provide travellers with convenient access to Uzbekistan while supporting greater tourism, trade and business opportunities between the two countries. We look forward to developing this market further with our partners. ” Aeroprime Group, Centrum Air’s Exclusive General Sales Agent (GSA) in India, is supporting the airline’s market development and trade engagement in the country. At the launch, Aeroprime highlighted its commitment to supporting Centrum Air’s India expansion through strong local market knowledge, trade relationships and on-ground sales and marketing support. Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director & CEO, Aeroprime Group, said, “We are delighted to support Centrum Air with the launch of its direct Hyderabad–Tashkent service. This new connection brings Uzbekistan closer to travellers across Hyderabad and South India while opening up new opportunities for tourism, trade and business. As Centrum Air’s Exclusive GSA in India, Aeroprime Group remains committed to supporting the airline’s growth and strengthening its presence in the Indian market. Within one year of starting two weekly flights from Delhi, Centrum Air has now expanded to 7 weekly flights connecting New Delhi and Hyderabad with Tashkent, demonstrating huge potential and growing customer demand for Uzbekistan.”

2026

DGCA Introduces Training Framework for Gyroplane Pilots

New Delhi, 30th September 2026: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has promulgated a new Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR), Section 7, Series B, Part XXI, titled “Ground and Flying Training Syllabus for Issue of Pilot Licence for Gyroplanes.” The CAR prescribes the ground and flying training syllabus for candidates seeking a DGCA pilot licence in the gyroplane category. Gyroplanes are a unique category of aircraft that use a freely rotating rotor system to generate lift, while forward thrust is provided by a propeller. Their operational capabilities make them suitable for joyrides, air experience flights and aerial work activities such as agricultural spraying, banner towing, surveillance and survey operations. The promulgation of this CAR is an initial step towards facilitating the introduction and operationalisation of gyroplanes in India. Further measures, including the establishment of training organisations and development of manufacturing and assembly capabilities, will support the growth of this emerging segment of civil aviation. (Courtesy: PIB)

2026

Singapore Airlines enhances in-Flight dining experience

Singapore, 29th September 2026: Singapore Airlines (SIA) is enhancing its in-flight dining experience with new and refreshed menus, refined beverage offerings, custom-designed serviceware, and distinctive presentation and service touches for selected dishes in Suites and First Class. This is one pillar of SIA’s broader investment in its end-to-end travel experience, alongside next-generation cabin products and KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system, new amenities, high-speed connectivity, and on-ground services. This elevated travel experience will be unveiled in Singapore in November 2026. Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Singapore Airlines, said: “At Singapore Airlines, in-flight dining is about much more than the meal itself. Guided by customer feedback, evolving preferences and emerging dining trends, we have reviewed every aspect of the experience – from menu design, seasonal ingredients, and cooking techniques to beverage selection, presentation, and cabin crew service. The result is a combination of thoughtfully crafted dishes, carefully curated beverages, elegant serviceware, and thoughtful touches that make dining on board more memorable for our customers.” The enhanced experience includes more than 100 new and refreshed appetisers, main courses, and desserts that are being introduced across all cabin classes under SIA Chefs’ Selection. This is a new in-flight menu category developed by the Airline’s in-house and guest chefs, in collaboration with its catering partners, and it brings together comforting and familiar flavours, regional favourites, reimagined classics, and new culinary creations. SIA is also introducing new wine labels for Suites, First Class, and Business Class, and new spirits options across all cabin classes, giving customers greater choice. In Suites, First Class, and Business Class, meals will be served on new custom-designed serviceware, created in collaboration with Christofle, the French luxury tableware maison. The serviceware incorporates a subtle interpretation of SIA’s signature batik motif. The Airline has begun to progressively roll out the new dishes, while the remaining dining enhancements, including new beverages, serviceware, and onboard service touches, will be introduced from November 2026.

2026

Air Astana opens booking between Almaty and Langkawi, Malaysia

Astana, 29th Sept 2026: Air Astana has opened bookings for a new seasonal service between Almaty and Langkawi, Malaysia. The service will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 25 December 2026 to 27 March 2027, operating an Airbus A321LR. Flight schedule (local times): KC8167 Almaty 21:35 – Langkawi 08:10+1 | Flight time: 7h35m KC8168 Langkawi 09:40 – Almaty 14:40 | Flight time: 8hrs Return fares start at US$740 in Economy class and US$2,oo6 in Business class, including taxes and charges. Tickets can be booked at airastana.com, via the Air Astana mobile app and through accredited travel agents. Kazakh citizens can enter Malaysia visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. Langkawi is one of Malaysia’s most popular island destinations, located in the Andaman Sea and known for its white-sand beaches, ancient mangrove forests and mountainous landscape. The archipelago is recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Its best-known attractions include Pantai Cenang beach, the Langkawi Cable Car and the Sky Bridge, which offers panoramic views over the island’s tropical rainforest.

2026

Air India launches integrated online duty-free experience in partnership with Adani airports

Mumbai, 28 September 2026: Air India, India’s leading global airline, and Adani Airport Holdings Limited, the country’s largest private airport operator, today announced the launch of an integrated online duty-free shopping platform for international travellers. Seamlessly integrated into Air India’s official website and mobile application, the new digital storefront lets passengers departing from or arriving at select Indian airports browse, pre-order, and securely pay for duty-free items before their journey. Customers can collect their packaged purchases at designated airport duty-free counters. More Savings and Convenience For passengers, the new platform offers instant savings and convenience with introductory discounts of up to 25% on standard retail shelf prices, with the added advantage of stacking bank offers and seasonal privileges. Travellers can choose from a wide digital catalogue covering premium cosmetics and fragrances, luxury chocolates and confectionery, consumer electronics, and world-class spirits — ensuring they secure the best deals before even stepping into the airport. Maharaja Club Points on duty free purchases In addition to introductory discounts of up to 25%, the partnership embeds loyalty rewards into the retail flow: members of Air India’s Maharaja Club loyalty program will automatically earn 3 Maharaja Points for every INR 100 spent on eligible duty-free transactions. Available for Travel to/from Select Airports The digital service is available for passengers travelling to and from major airports with duty-free hubs at Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram. Eligibility extends to customers on codeshare itineraries, including flights operated by Air India Express, with planned rollouts across additional domestic and international gateways in subsequent phases. The partnership brings together Air India’s growing digital customer ecosystem and Adani Airports’ retail expertise to reimagine duty-free shopping as an integrated part of the travel journey. From trip planning and pre-ordering to airport collection and loyalty rewards, the new offering delivers a seamless, end-to-end experience designed around the evolving needs of today’s travellers.

2026

Asia Pacific Airlines August 2026 Traffic Results

Passenger traffic remains soft, while cargo demand rises further Malaysia, 28th Sept 2026: Preliminary August 2026 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed that international passenger traffic remained soft, as some airlines further rationalised capacity amid persistently elevated jet fuel prices, and airspace restrictions associated with the Middle East conflict. Higher air fares also weighed on regional demand, while long-haul traffic remained relatively resilient, including on Asia – Europe routes. Overall, Asia Pacific airlines carried 33.5 million international passengers in August, 0.6% fewer than a year earlier. Passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK) rose by 1.8% year-on-year. Capacity, measured in available seat kilometres, increased by 1.5%, lifting the average international passenger load factor by 0.2 percentage points to 83.2%. Meanwhile, air cargo markets continued to benefit from rising export activity and brisk demand for AI-related goods, although e-commerce shipments to Europe showed some weakness following the introduction of charges on small parcels. International air cargo demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), grew by 1.1% year-on-year, while offered freight capacity expanded by 1.6%. As a result, the average international freight load factor fell by 0.3 percentage points to 59.3% for the month. Commenting on the results, Mr. Wong Hong, Director General of AAPA, said, “”Traffic growth has moderated in recent months, but the picture remains broadly positive. Asia Pacific airlines carried 259.3 million international passengers in the first eight months of the year, 2.1% more than in the same period last year. International air cargo demand rose by a strong 5.5% over the same period.” Mr. Wong Hong added, “Despite the year-to-date growth in traffic, the operating environment remains challenging. Elevated jet fuel prices, airspace restrictions and weaker Asian currencies are raising costs, while higher fares weigh on price-sensitive travellers. These factors continue to affect profitability, with outcomes varying across individual airlines.” Looking ahead, Mr. Wong Hong said, “Regional economic growth and trade activity should continue to support demand for air travel and cargo, although growth is likely to remain uneven across markets. Geopolitical developments and changes in trade policies add some uncertainty to the outlook for the remainder of the year.”

2026, Cargo

AISATS Multi Modal Cargo Hub Capacity to Double in the Winter Schedule

Delhi, 25th September 2026: Air India SATS Airport Services (AISATS) will double its operational capacity at the Multi Modal Cargo Hub (MMCH) at Noida International Airport during the upcoming winter schedule. The facility commenced domestic cargo operations in June 2026 and is currently handling shipments including electronics, auto parts, agricultural produce, perishables and e-commerce cargo. AISATS participated in the 4th edition of the UP International Trade Fair to highlight the potential of the MMCH as an integrated cargo and logistics gateway for Uttar Pradesh, supporting the growth and economic potential of the state. According to the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), Uttar Pradesh is the 5th largest exporter in India and the top exporter among landlocked states. Further, Gautam Buddha Nagar emerged as Uttar Pradesh’s leading exporting district in FY 2025-26, accounting for nearly half of the state’s total exports, with exports valued at approximately ₹97,703 crore. Spread across 87 acres, the AISATS MMCH comprises a 30-acre Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT) and a 57-acre Integrated Warehousing and Logistics Zone (IWLZ). The facility brings cargo handling, warehousing, trucking and digital cargo management capabilities together within a single ecosystem, enabling more streamlined movement of goods. It is among India’s most ambitious and future-ready logistics infrastructure projects and will support the country’s rapidly growing logistics and supply chain needs while strengthening trade connectivity across the country and with global markets. According to this year’s UP state economy survey report, Uttar Pradesh’s economy has more than doubled in eight years, surpassing Rs 30.25 lakh crore. Per capita income has also doubled. The state’s contribution to the national economy has grown to 9.1 per cent in 2024-25 in which agriculture and allied services contributed 25.8 per cent . The growing international participation at the trade fair highlighted the potential for new trade corridors from Uttar Pradesh, with Japan, Vietnam, Russia, Singapore and Austria participating as partner countries this year. The state has established export markets across the US, UK, UAE, Germany, and South and Southeast Asia. As international cargo operations commence from Noida International Airport, the MMCH is positioned to support stronger connections between the state’s production centres and global markets. The facility is expected to set new benchmarks and standards for the air cargo industry in India, empowering businesses to thrive and strengthen their presence in global trade. The MMCH cargo facility in Noida will support Uttar Pradesh’s industrial and manufacturing clusters by creating new opportunities and enabling more efficient access to domestic and international markets.

2026, Cargo

TCI Organises Nationwide Blood Donation Drive in Memory of Founder

Gurugram, 24th September 2026: Transport Corporation of India, one of India’s leading integrated logistics and supply chain solutions providers, organised a nationwide blood donation drive in memory of its Founder, Shri Prabhu Dayal Agarwal Ji, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to community service and humanitarian values. The seven-day campaign, held from 14th to 20th September 2026, witnessed the participation of 1,734 employees and associates, including 1,641 male and 93 female participants, across 68+ locations in India. Blood donation camps were organised in cities including Kolkata, Gurugram, Rajkot, Delhi, Chandigarh, Pune, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Ludhiana, Noida, Hyderabad, Kanpur, Lucknow, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Prayagraj, Patna, Varanasi, Mumbai, Haridwar and Ahmedabad, among others. The initiative commemorates the enduring legacy of Shri PD Ji, fondly remembered as a pioneer of the Indian transport & logistics industry. Beyond transforming the logistics landscape, he made significant contributions to social welfare, healthcare, education and women’s empowerment. His association with initiatives in the healthcare sector, including the establishment of some of the country’s early private blood banks, reflects his belief in giving back to society and supporting communities in meaningful ways. Building on this legacy, TCI’s annual blood donation drive brings together employees and business associates across the country to contribute to a cause that directly supports patients and healthcare institutions. The initiative reflects TCI’s continued efforts to foster a culture of social responsibility and encourage its people to actively contribute to the communities in which it operates. Through initiatives such as the nationwide blood donation drive, TCI continues to honour the values and vision of its Founder while creating opportunities for its employees and associates to make a meaningful difference to society.

2026

China Airlines selects Safran for Airbus A350-900 Landing Gear Overhaul program

Singapore, 23 September 2026: Safran Landing Systems and China Airlines, a Taiwan-based carrier, announced today the signature of a new agreement covering the overhaul of the main landing gears for the carrier’s fleet of 18 Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The agreement, signed at Safran Landing Systems’ Singapore facility during MRO Asia-Pacific, covers China Airlines’ entire fleet of Airbus Airbus A350-900 aircraft and will support the airline’s landing gear maintenance requirements from 2026 through 2031. The agreement includes landing gear overhaul services and associated technical support, ensuring the long-term reliability, availability and performance of China Airlines’ Airbus A350-900 fleet. Maintenance activities will be performed at Safran Landing Systems’ MRO center in Singapore, leveraging the company’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) expertise and comprehensive maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities. This new contract marks another important milestone in the long-standing relationship between the two companies. China Airlines already relies on Safran Landing Systems for landing gear maintenance services for its Airbus A330 fleet, while other members of the CAL Group, including Tigerair Taiwan and Mandarin Airlines, also partner with Safran Landing Systems on their respective fleets. “We are proud to strengthen our relationship with China Airlines through this new Airbus A350-900 landing gear overhaul agreement,” said Olivier Thomas, EVP Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul at Safran Landing Systems. “This contract reflects the confidence China Airlines places in our teams, our technical expertise and our ability to support critical fleet operations over the long term. As airlines increasingly seek not only repair capabilities but also direct access to OEM expertise, we look forward to supporting China Airlines throughout this next chapter of its Airbus 350 journey.” The agreement further reinforces Safran Landing Systems’ commitment to supporting airlines across Asia-Pacific through a comprehensive network of landing gear maintenance services. It also highlights the strategic role of the company’s Singapore MRO facility, which serves operators throughout one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.  

2026

Etihad Introduces Corporate Care to Provide Priority Support for Business Travellers

India, September 18, 2026: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, announced the launch of Corporate Care, a new enhancement to its Etihad for Business programme designed to provide organisations and their travellers with priority support when it matters most. Business travel is about more than simply reaching a destination, for organisations, ensuring travellers are supported throughout their journey is essential to maintaining confidence, continuity and peace of mind. Corporate Care strengthens Etihad for Business’s support offering by giving eligible members access to enhanced assistance and closer coordination throughout their travel experience. Through Corporate Care, Etihad for Business members benefit from: Priority support during travel disruptions, including assistance with rebooking, protection of the flight in an unlikely case of aircraft downgrade and seat preference considerations in case of aircraft swap Dedicated account management teams, provide organisations with a closer point of contact for their business travel needs Close coordination with Travel Management Companies (TMCs) to help deliver a more connected and seamless support experience As the business travel landscape continues to evolve, Etihad remains committed to delivering a reliable, customer-first experience that helps organisations and their people travel with confidence. “When it matters most, your business deserves more than support. It deserves priority” said Javier Alija, Vice President Sales, Digital & Distribution at Etihad Airways, “Corporate Care is designed to give our Etihad for Business members an enhanced level of support and reassurance, particularly when unexpected disruption affects their travel plans. By combining priority assistance, dedicated account management and close collaboration with TMC partners, we are helping our customers navigate their journeys with greater confidence.” Corporate Care is part of Etihad’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the Etihad for Business proposition and supporting the evolving needs of corporate travellers and organisations. Organisations interested in learning more about Corporate Care can contact their Etihad account manager to discuss the feature and how it can support their business travel needs or visit the Etihad for Business website to learn more about the programme and sign up.

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

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

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