2026

2026

FLY91 adds Tirupati as its 13th Destination

Panaji, 24th August 2026 : The regional airline FLY91 has added Tirupati as the 13th destination on its growing regional network further strengthening its presence and connecting four cities in the twin states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The airline will now serve four destinations across the two states. Through the regional airline’s network, Tirupati will be connected with Rajahmundry, Vijayawada and Hyderabad, improving connectivity across southern India while making pilgrimage, leisure and business travel more convenient. According to Manoj Chacko, MD and CEO, FLY91, “The addition of Tirupati marks another important milestone in the steady expansion of our regional network and reinforces our commitment to Andhra Pradesh, where we now serve three destinations. By connecting Tirupati to 3 important cities, we are making travel across an important religious, educational and cultural corridor more convenient while improving connectivity between key regional centres. As a regional airline focused on ‘Connecting Bharat’ through safe and reliable air services, we remain committed to enhancing access between India’s growing regional markets.” The airline will operate daily flights between Tirupati and Hyderabad. Flights will operate between Titupati and Vijayawada on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays while service will operate between Tirupati and Rajmundry on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The addition of Tirupati further strengthens FLY91’s growing regional network across India, with the airline now serving Goa (Manohar International Airport, Mopa), Sindhudurg, Jalgaon, Solapur, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Agatti in the Lakshadweep Islands, Kochi, Hubballi, Rajahmundry and Vijayawada.

2026, Events

India’s SAF mandate gains momentum; global industry to gather at 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026

SAF Association announces India’s largest Sustainable Aviation Fuel forum as the country prepares for the next phase of SAF implementation New Delhi, 19th August 2026: Following the Government of India’s recent indication that the country’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate is moving towards implementation, the SAF Association (SAFA)—India’s leading not-for-profit industry body dedicated exclusively to advancing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel ecosystem—today announced the 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026, to be held on 28–29 September 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Coming at a defining moment for India’s aviation sector, the Conclave will serve as the country’s premier platform to bring together the complete SAF value chain and accelerate policy implementation, investment, technology deployment, capacity building and global collaboration, reinforcing India’s ambition to emerge as a leading global Sustainable Aviation Fuel hub. Positioned as India’s largest Sustainable Aviation Fuel forum, the Conclave is expected to welcome more than 1,000 delegates, over 100 global speakers and 50+ international partners, including policymakers, ministries, airlines, airports, oil & gas companies, refiners, fuel producers, feedstock suppliers, EPC companies, OEMs, technology developers, investors, financial institutions, research organisations and international agencies. As India’s leading industry platform for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, the SAF Association is bringing together every critical stakeholder to strengthen policy dialogue, foster strategic partnerships, mobilise investment, promote technology collaboration and create a globally competitive SAF ecosystem for India. Event Details: 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026 Theme:  Powering the SAF Transition Together Date: 28–29 September 2026 Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi Media Partner: Aviation World The two-day programme will feature ministerial sessions, international technical conferences, knowledge-based workshops, implementation-focused masterclasses, closed-door leadership roundtables, strategic matchmaking, B2B and B2G meetings, an International Buyers & Investors Forum, technology showcase, exhibition, knowledge report launches, strategic MoU signings and the India SAF Awards 2026. Designed as an implementation-focused platform rather than a conventional conference, the Conclave offers stakeholders an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, forge strategic partnerships, connect with investors and project developers, showcase innovative technologies, participate in specialised workshops and closed-door roundtables, exchange global best practices and unlock new business opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing Sustainable Aviation Fuel markets. Rohit Kumar, Secretary General, SAF Association, said: “India stands at a defining moment in its Sustainable Aviation Fuel journey. As the country moves towards implementation of its SAF roadmap, collaboration across government, industry, technology providers, investors and global partners will be critical to accelerate commercial deployment. The 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026 has been created as India’s premier global platform to drive partnerships, investment, innovation and knowledge exchange while positioning India as one of the world’s leading destinations for Sustainable Aviation Fuel production, technology and investment. Together, we can power the SAF transition and shape India’s leadership in the global sustainable aviation ecosystem.” The SAF Association (SAFA) is India’s leading not-for-profit industry body dedicated exclusively to advancing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel ecosystem through policy advocacy, industry collaboration, international partnerships, technology development, market development and capacity building, supporting India’s transition towards a globally competitive and low-carbon aviation sector. ——————————————————————————————————————- For more details, contact : SAF Association E: secretary@safassociation.com www.safassociation.com  

2026

BKJ Airports launches GroundSafe digital platform for real-time hazard reporting

Delhi,19th Aug, 2026: BKJ Airports, the airport ground handling company has launched GroundSafe, a BKJ Airports’ proprietary digital hazard and ground incident reporting platform.Through a simple QR code-based interface, employees can instantly report hazards, unsafe conditions, and ground incidents, enabling faster corrective action while promoting a transparent, proactive, and non-punitive safety culture across the organisation. New manuals strengthen safety and compliance BKJ Airports also introduced a comprehensive operational framework by launching three organisation-wide manuals—the Safety & Quality Management System manual, Ground Handling Service Provider manual, and Ground Service Equipment manual. The manuals establish standardised operating procedures, quality benchmarks and compliance frameworks across every BKJ Airports station, reinforcing the company’s commitment to global safety and operational excellence. Digital transformation and AI initiatives As part of its digital transformation roadmap, the company also showcased the implementation of SAP S/4HANA ERP, Darwinbox HRMS, digital boarding and baggage initiatives, while unveiling future technology platforms including AI-powered workforce rostering, IoT-enabled equipment monitoring, airline self-service dashboards and predictive operational intelligence. Expansion plans and new headquarters BKJ Airports, a part of JK Jajoo Ventures, currently operates across 17 airports nationwide. The company provides integrated ground handling and aviation support services. It has set a vision of expanding to over 50 airports by 2030 and 100 airport contracts by 2035.    

2026

Garuda Aerospace signs MoU with Australia’s Timed Automation Solutions to advance autonomous drone capabilities

Chennai,19th August 2026 : Garuda Aerospace has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Timed Automation Solutions (TAS), Australia, a provider of enterprise autonomous drone platforms. The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration between the two organisations to advance technical cooperation, facilitate knowledge sharing, and explore growth opportunities in the autonomous drone sector. The collaboration brings together Garuda Aerospace’s expertise in drone manufacturing and drone-based solutions with Timed Automation Solutions’ strengths in autonomous aerial operations and enterprise drone platforms, including drone-in-a-box orchestration, fleet and site control, AI-assisted image review, and enterprise integrations. Under the MoU, both companies will evaluate non-exclusive opportunities in product distribution, joint development of drone technologies, and participation in domestic and international projects. By leveraging their complementary capabilities, the collaboration aims to support innovation across applications such as agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and remote operations. Speaking on the collaboration, Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO, Garuda Aerospace Limited, said: “As autonomous technologies continue to redefine industries worldwide, building strong international relationships is essential to shaping the future of the drone ecosystem. Our association with Timed Automation Solutions reflects our commitment to expanding Garuda Aerospace’s global reach while developing solutions that address evolving industry requirements. We remain focused on driving technological excellence and delivering long-term value through strategic collaborations.” “This collaboration with Garuda Aerospace reflects TAS’s vision to build a scalable, software driven UAV ecosystem in Australia. By combining Garuda’s manufacturing capabilities with our SkyStream platform, we aim to deliver flexible, cost effective, and scalable solutions for industries transitioning towards autonomous operations.” Shakil Mansoor, Founder and Director from Timed Automation Solutions added. The collaboration will also explore pilot deployments across Australia and New Zealand, supporting the evaluation of real-world use cases and operational workflows. This MoU marks another step in Garuda Aerospace’s broader strategy of driving innovation through strategic collaborations. Building on its existing partnerships across the aerospace, defence, and technology ecosystem, the company continues to expand its capabilities while creating new opportunities in autonomous drone technologies and global markets. In 2025, Garuda Aerospace also secured export licence approvals, supporting potential expansion into the Australian market.

2026

CSMIA Marks 80 Years of India’s Independence

India’s 80th Independence Day was celebrated at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), bringing the airport community together in the spirit of national pride and unity. From energetic performances by the Mumbai Airport Operations team, airline partners and airport stakeholders to a spirited showcase by CISF, the celebrations reflected the strength, unity and diversity that define our nation.

2026

Air India and Air India Express honour India’s armed forces with a special Independence Day offer

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, Air India and Air India Express are honouring the men and women who safeguard the nation, with a special travel offer for members of the Indian Armed Forces, veterans, gallantry award recipients and their eligible dependents. Air India group has long shared a special bond with the country’s defence community. This Independence Day, Air India and Air India Express are extending a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to the nation’s servicemen and women, whose courage, sacrifice, and dedication continue to protect India’s sovereignty and security. Under this special Independence Day initiative, eligible personnel and their dependents can avail a flat 25% discount on base fares across all domestic flights operated by Air India and Air India Express, for both one-way and round-trip bookings. The special offer is valid for bookings made from 0001 Hrs on 15 August until 2359 Hrs on 17 August 2026. Applicable taxes, fees and surcharges are payable separately. Eligibility The special offer is available for: Active and retired personnel of the military and paramilitary forces and their dependents (spouse / children between 2 and 26 years of age, parents) Indian Army Indian Navy Indian Air Force Indian Coast Guard Border Security Force (BSF) Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) National Security Guard (NSG) Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) Assam Rifles Intelligence Bureau Railway Protection Force Military recruit Military Charter Passenger Military Reserve on active duty War veterans and their dependents War widows of military personnel Personnel of General Reserve Engineering Force Recipients of the higher bravery awards Level I, Level II and Level III from the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force Additional discounts on Air India Air India travellers can also avail an additional discount of up to INR 3,000, using promo code FLYAI, subject to applicable terms and conditions. Travellers booking on the Air India website or mobile app will enjoy an additional flat 50% discount on the convenience fee, if they are logged in. Simple verification for eligible customers Air India and Air Indi Express will verify the identity of the Armed Forces personnel and their dependents booking under the offer. Active and retired personnel can present their official identity cards, while eligible dependents can present their dependent ID cards. Bookings under the sale are open and can be made through official website, mobile app and contact centre. The seats available under the offer are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

2026, Events

APASS 2027: Asia Pacific aviation safety leaders to gather in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur,11th August 2026: Organised by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) and hosted by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), APASS 2027 will bring together aviation leaders, safety professionals, regulators, aircraft and engine manufacturers, maintenance organisations, air navigation service providers, training organisations and technology partners from across the Asia Pacific region and beyond. The preparations are well underway for the Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar 2027 (APASS 2027), which will take place from 7–9 September 2027 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Recognised as the Asia Pacific region’s flagship aviation safety forum, APASS is led by airlines, providing a unique platform for the exchange of operational experience, collaborative problem-solving and the sharing of practical safety initiatives. Under the theme Shaping the Future of Safe Aviation, APASS 2027 will explore how the aviation community can collectively shape the future of safe aviation by embracing emerging technologies, strengthening operational resilience, advancing human performance and fostering collaboration across the global aviation community. The three-day programme will feature keynote addresses, plenary discussions, specialist technical streams and interactive workshops covering a broad range of contemporary operational issues, including: ·      Flight Operations ·      Engineering and Maintenance ·      Cabin Safety and Aviation Security ·      Human Factors and Organisational Resilience ·      Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation and Predictive Risk Management ·      Emerging Technologies, Sustainability and Regional Collaboration Commenting on APASS 2027, Wong Hong, Director General of AAPA, said:” The Asia Pacific region continues to lead global aviation growth, bringing with it both tremendous opportunities and increasingly complex operational challenges. APASS 2027 reflects our collective commitment to shaping the future of safe aviation through innovation, strong leadership, operational resilience and trusted collaboration across the aviation community.” MAG welcomes the opportunity to host APASS in Kuala Lumpur and to strengthen regional partnerships in advancing aviation safety. Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of MAG, said: “As the aviation industry continues to evolve, maintaining the highest standards of safety requires a shared commitment to continuous learning and collaboration. At MAG, these principles guide the way we operate every day, and we look forward to engaging with industry partners to exchange operational experience, share best practices and strengthen aviation safety across the region.” The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has also expressed its support for APASS 2027, recognising the importance of regional collaboration in the implementation of international aviation safety standards. Building on more than two decades of success, APASS 2027 will continue to provide practical operational insights and collaborative solutions that help shape the future of safe aviation.

2026

SaveSage partners with IndiGo to reward customers on everyday bill payments

Delhi, August 11, 2026: SaveSage has  announced a first-of-its-kind partnership with IndiGo BluChip, enabling users to earn IndiGo BluChips on credit card and utility bill payments made through the SaveSage app. Under the partnership, members will earn 1 IndiGo BluChip for every Rs 1,000 of credit card and utility bill payments, with the opportunity to earn up to 1,000 IndiGo BluChips every month. The earned IndiGo BluChips can be redeemed for eligible flights and other applicable benefits within the IndiGo BluChips programme. The feature will be available immediately to all SaveSage users. The launch comes at a time when India’s credit card ecosystem continues to expand, with more than 120 million active cards and over 1 million new cards issued every month. Yet card penetration remains below 6% of the population compared with over 40% in China and more than 70% in the United States, highlighting significant room for growth. As consumers increasingly manage multiple cards and seek greater value from recurring expenses, credit card bill payments have remained one of the few large monthly transactions that generate no rewards. The partnership addresses this gap by enabling customers to earn IndiGo BluChips on everyday bill payments. Commenting on the launch, Ashish Lath, Founder & CEO, SaveSage, said, “Credit card bills are among the largest monthly transactions for millions of Indians, yet until now they have generated practically no rewards. Through this partnership with IndiGo, we’re changing that by helping users turn payments they already make every month into meaningful free flights. As consumers become more focused on maximising value from every transaction, we’re excited to introduce a proposition that makes travel rewards a part of daily financial life.”  The partnership reflects a broader shift towards integrating financial services with travel rewards, opening new ways for consumers to extract value from everyday spending while giving loyalty programmes a way to engage members beyond traditional travel.

2026

New Delhi to host one of India’s largest air cargo summits as supply chains undergo global reset

New Delhi, 11th August 2026: At a time when geopolitical uncertainties, shifting manufacturing bases, expanding e-commerce and rapid digital transformation are redefining global trade, India is preparing to host one of the country’s largest gatherings of the air cargo and logistics industry. Beginning tomorrow, Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) will convene the 7th ACFI World Conclave 2026 on 12–13 August at Taj Palace, New Delhi, bringing together more than 700 delegates from across the global aviation, logistics, and supply chain ecosystem. With Logistics Shakti as the Strategic Partner, Cathay Cargo as the Title Partner, SkyDrive as the Powered by Partner, and Freightos, Menzies Aviation, WFS and BLR Cargo as Gold Partners, the conclave will bring together policymakers, regulators, airlines, airports, cargo terminal operators, freight forwarders, logistics companies and technology leaders to deliberate on the theme, “Reimagining Global Trade: India at the Forefront of Developing Resilient Supply Chains.” Discussions will focus on strengthening India’s position as a global logistics hub through digital innovation, infrastructure expansion and policy reforms to build resilient, future-ready supply chains. The two-day conclave will feature discussions on AI-enabled logistics, automation, digital air waybills, multimodal connectivity, sustainability and next-generation supply chain technologies, while fostering industry collaboration to accelerate the growth of India’s air cargo ecosystem. The conclave will be graced by Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, as the Chief Guest, alongside senior government officials, regulators and industry leaders. Sanjiv Edward, President, Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) and CEO, Cargo & Logistics, GMR Group, said, “Global trade is entering a defining phase where resilience, digital integration and trusted partnerships are becoming the new drivers of competitiveness. As supply chains evolve, India has an unprecedented opportunity to emerge as a strategic gateway connecting global markets. The ACFI World Conclave 2026 is designed to bring together policymakers and industry leaders to exchange ideas, forge partnerships and identify practical pathways that can strengthen India’s air cargo ecosystem while supporting the country’s long-term trade and economic ambitions.” Ramesh Mamidala, Vice President, Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) and Head of Cargo, Air India Limited, said,”Air cargo today sits at the intersection of global commerce, manufacturing, e-commerce and technology. The sector is witnessing rapid transformation driven by digitalisation, automation, changing trade routes and increasing customer expectations. This conclave will provide an important platform to deliberate on policy reforms, operational excellence, technology adoption and multimodal integration that will enhance efficiency, improve resilience and position India among the world’s leading logistics economies.” Karanjit Singh Wadhwa, Chairman, Event Management, Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI), said, “The objective of the World Conclave is to create meaningful outcomes that extend well beyond the conference hall. By bringing together global decision makers, regulators, airlines, airports, logistics companies, technology providers and investors on one platform, we aim to facilitate knowledge exchange, business partnerships and collaborative solutions that will accelerate innovation and strengthen India’s role in shaping the future of global supply chains.” India’s air cargo sector continues to grow despite global disruptions, with cargo volumes rising 6.2 percent in FY26 to 39.63 lakh tonnes. International shipments accounted for nearly 64 percent of total freight, while Delhi remained the country’s largest cargo hub and Chennai recorded 11.7 percent growth, driven by electronics and engineering exports. Pharmaceuticals, perishables, automotive components and cross-border e-commerce continue to fuel cargo growth. The sector is also witnessing rapid adoption of AI-driven logistics, automation, digital documentation and paperless cargo processes, supported by initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. Against this backdrop, the 7th ACFI World Conclave 2026 aims to bring together key stakeholders to advance policy dialogue, innovation and collaboration, strengthening India’s position as a leading global air cargo and logistics hub.

2026

AAPA releases June 2026 traffic results for Asia Pacific Airlines

Kuala Lumpur, 5th August 2026: The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has released its preliminary June 2026 traffic figures which highlights softening in international passenger demand. In some regional markets, there is weaker traffic  reflected capacity reductions and higher airfares following the escalation in fuel prices, even as travel approached the peak mid-year season. Overall, Asia Pacific airlines carried an aggregate total of 30.5 million international passengers in June, representing a 1.1% decline compared to the same month last year. However, demand in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK) rose by 1.1% year-on-year, underscoring continued resilience in longer-haul travel. Growth in demand outpaced a marginal 0.3% expansion in available seat capacity, resulting in a 0.7 percentage point increase in the average international passenger load factor to 82.6% for the month. Meanwhile, international air cargo demand remained firm in June, supported in part by robust AI-related semiconductor and hardware shipments. For the month, demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), increased by 3.2% year-on-year, while offered freight capacity edged 0.2% higher, resulting in a 1.8 percentage point increase in the average international freight load factor to 62.6%. Commenting on the results, Mr. Wong Hong, Director General of AAPA, said, “Passenger traffic moderated in June as higher airfares and capacity adjustments in some regional markets weighed on demand. Even so, international travel has continued to hold up well, with Asia Pacific airlines carrying 192.5 million international passengers during the first half of 2026, 3.2% more than in the corresponding period last year.” “Meanwhile, international air cargo markets continued to perform well, with demand growing by 7.0% in the first half of the year, supported by continued demand for AI-related semiconductor shipments and other high-value, time-sensitive goods amid evolving trade dynamics.” Looking ahead, Mr. Wong Hong said, “Airlines continue to face challenging operating conditions, with persistent uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict contributing to fuel price volatility and continued pressure on operating costs. These headwinds, together with more moderate business confidence and heightened geopolitical and trade policy uncertainty, may temper growth in travel and air cargo markets in the coming months. Against this backdrop, carriers remain focused on maintaining network flexibility, exercising capacity discipline, and enhancing operational efficiency in response to evolving demand patterns.”

FOREWORD

Dear Readers,

 

Welcome to the latest edition of Aviation World. This is an incredibly significant issue for us, perfectly timed to align with several prominent aviation events unfolding across the globe.

 

Chief among them is the Farnborough International Airshow, taking place from July 20th to 24th, 2026, in Hampshire, United Kingdom. Ranked as one of the world’s premier events for aviation, aerospace, and defense, this year’s airshow arrives at a crucial moment. Against a backdrop of geopolitical turbulence, Farnborough provides an invaluable platform to engage with global leaders and gain firsthand perspectives on the future of the industry. Inside, you will find our comprehensive curtain-raiser report focusing on the show’s core themes, as well as the highly anticipated static and aerobatic aircraft displays.

 

On our front cover, we are proud to feature Capt. Vaibhav Goutham Suresh, Director of the School of Aviation, Logistics and Tourism Management (SALTM) at Galgotias University. In an exclusive interview, Capt. Suresh highlights how SALTM bridges the gap between academia and the runway, delivering a comprehensive curriculum that ensures graduates are industry-ready from day one. Complementing this, our special feature on SALTM dives deeper into how the institution maintains world-class academic standards and a cutting-edge learning environment.

 

We are also privileged to bring you exclusive insights from a stellar lineup of industry trailblazers in this edition, including:

  • Robin Glover-Faure, Chief Customer Officer of Acron Aviation
  • Karim Makhlouf, CCO of Royal Jordanian Airlines
  • Pallavi Joshi & Vimal Priya, the leadership powerhouse behind AirFleet Managers &Aviatrics Global
  • Wg. Cdr. Prem Kumar Garg (Retd.), CEO of IndiaOne Air

Each shares a detailed perspective on driving innovation, navigating current market dynamics, and establishing progressive frontiers within their respective sectors.

 

Beyond these highlights, this issue is packed with curated features and analytical pieces designed to keep you informed and inspired.

 

Finally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed advertisers and partners. Your unwavering support empowers us in our ongoing endeavor to make Aviation World a truly world-class publication with global reach and recognition.

 

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

Disclaimer

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