2026

New Delhi, 30th April 2026: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh will hold bilateral talks with the Minister of Defence of Italy Guido Crosetto in New Delhi on April 30, 2026. During the meeting, the Ministers will discuss a range of issues covering defence cooperation between the two countries. They are also expected to share their views on regional and global issues in view of the evolving security landscape. Defence cooperation between India and Italy gained further momentum after Raksha Mantri visited Rome in October 2023. Defence Minister Crosetto’s maiden visit to India underlines the desire of both nations to further expand existing cooperation and explore new areas of collaboration particularly under the industrial partnership domain. The signing of India-EU Defence & Strategic Partnership in January 2026 signals increasing strategic convergence and has provided further impetus to defence industrial cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

PANAMA CITY, 29th April 2026: At a ceremony with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, Copa Airlines and CFM International* (“CFM”) finalized an agreement for CFM LEAP-1B engines to power 40 firm and 20 option Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Pedro Heilbron, Chief Executive Officer of Copa Airlines, said, “For Copa Airlines, the signing of this agreement represents a significant step toward continuing to strengthen our operations and the connectivity we provide from Panama. Through the Hub of the Americas®, we have consolidated our position as the leading connection center in the region, offering more flights and destinations, along with the best on-time performance in the Americas. Incorporating new aircraft will be key to further expanding our operations and destination network, as well as continuing to contribute to the economic development of Panama and the region by generating new jobs and driving growth in the tourism sector.” Lawrence Culp, Jr., Chairman and CEO of GE Aerospace said, “CFM is proud to have a decades-long relationship with Copa Airlines. The LEAP-powered 737 MAX will further strengthen Copa’s position as one of the leading carriers in Latin America as it expands its network and modernizes its fleet across the Americas.” Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International said, “We’re honored that Copa Airlines has again chosen to place its confidence in CFM. The LEAP-powered 737 MAX will be a powerful asset for Copa with the lower fuel consumption, longer range, and the high reliability that airlines value.” Copa Airlines has more than a quarter century of history with CFM and continues to modernize its fleet with the latest-generation LEAP-powered aircraft. Copa Airlines became a CFM customer in 1999 with an order for eight Boeing 737 aircraft with CFM56-7B engines. The airline currently operates more than 100 CFM-powered aircraft, with more than 30 additional LEAP-1B powered aircraft on order. With more than 4,600 aircraft delivered to date, CFM LEAP engines have experienced the fastest ramp in commercial aviation history. Advanced technologies like composite fan blades and ceramic matrix composites deliver an engine for customers that is 15% more fuel efficient, with 15% lower carbon emissions than prior-generation CFM56 engines. Backed by advanced health monitoring systems and an open Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul ecosystem, CFM LEAP engines offer mature reliability and enable high asset utilization for narrowbody aircraft. *CFM is a 50/50 joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.

Kuala Lumpur,29th April 2026: Preliminary March 2026 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed robust growth in international passenger traffic, reflecting healthy travel appetite. Asian carriers also benefited from an upsurge in demand on Asia-Europe routes, as travellers shifted to alternative routings following airspace closures and operational disruptions at Middle East hubs. For the month, a combined total of 33.9 million passengers flew on the region’s carriers, representing an 8.5% year-on-year increase. Demand, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), rose by a solid 11.3%, reflecting strength on longer-haul routes. This increase in demand significantly outpaced the 1.9% year-on-year expansion in available seat capacity. As a result, the average international passenger load factor rose markedly, by 7.4 percentage points to a record high of 87.6% in March. Supply chains were also disrupted by the war, resulting in cargo flight cancellations and the subsequent rerouting of Asia – Europe cargo flows away from key Middle East hubs. Against this backdrop, international air cargo demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), rose by 2.5% year-on-year in March, supported by an increased demand for timely shipments. Offered freight capacity rose by 3.8%, resulting in a 0.7 percentage point decline in the average international freight load factor to 62.3%. Commenting on the results, Mr. Wong Hong, AAPA Director General, said, “The aviation industry faced multiple challenges in March, as military conflict in the Middle East led to flight cancellations and a sharp increase in jet fuel prices. Asia Pacific airlines responded swiftly by making network adjustments, including adding flights on key Asia – Europe routes, and trimming unprofitable routes in the face of higher fuel and operating costs. This supported both passenger and cargo demand during the month, bringing first quarter growth to 6.2%, with 102 million international passengers carried, and a 5.7% increase in air cargo demand.” Wong Hong added, “However, the impact of the Middle East conflict has begun to weigh on what had been an encouraging start to the year. Already grappling with high operating costs due to persistent supply chain issues, airlines are now facing additional strain, with jet fuel prices up by 80% year-on-year to an average of US$156 per barrel in March, compared to US$87 per barrel a year earlier. Fuel remains the single largest cost item for Asia Pacific carriers, accounting for around 30% of total operating expenses.” Looking ahead, Mr. Wong Hong concluded, “The duration of the Middle East conflict is going to add uncertainty to the global economic outlook and air travel demand. Against this backdrop, Asia Pacific airlines continue to maintain vigilance over cost controls while maintaining international connectivity. The region’s airlines remain committed to the highest safety standards, and to working closely with governments and industry stakeholders to ensuring safe, efficient and sustainable operations.”

Jeddah, April 23, 2026 Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has commenced its Hajj 2026 operations, marking the arrival of the first flight carrying pilgrims to the Kingdom. Flight SV5807 arrived at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah from Dhaka, carrying 376 pilgrims. His Excellency Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, and His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, welcomed the flight alongside senior officials from across the Hajj ecosystem, underscoring the Kingdom’s continued commitment to enhancing the pilgrimage experience. Saudia’s Hajj operational plan spans 75 days across both arrival and departure phases, facilitating the movement of pilgrims from around the world. The operation is supported by a comprehensive suite of integrated services, delivered in close coordination with relevant entities to ensure a seamless and efficient journey. For the 2026 season, Saudia has allocated more than one million seats across its domestic and international network, supported by a fleet of 160 aircraft dedicated to Hajj operations. The airline will serve pilgrims from 145 destinations worldwide, leveraging its full operational and technical capabilities. A dedicated workforce across all operational sectors is deployed around the clock to maintain smooth and efficient performance throughout the season. His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said: “Serving pilgrims is a national priority, and Saudia plays an integral role within a broader ecosystem dedicated to this mission. In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, and in partnership with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Pilgrim Experience Program, we continue to advance initiatives that enhance the Hajj journey. As we contribute to the Kingdom’s objective of facilitating travel for 30 million pilgrims and Umrah performers by 2030, we remain committed to delivering a high standard of service at every stage, supported by disciplined operations and strong on-time performance.” Saudia continues to offer a range of services tailored to pilgrims, including the issuance of boarding passes for both arrival and return flights at international departure points, as well as domestic segments, in addition to operating supplementary flights to Madinah. The airline expects to serve more than 179,000 pilgrims through the “Makkah Route” initiative, while the “Luggage First” service is set to handle approximately 330,000 bags and 230,000 bottles of Zamzam water. Onboard, services are designed to support pilgrims throughout their journey. These include Miqat announcements made 30 minutes prior to crossing, the broadcast of Talbiyah, and a dedicated inflight channel featuring educational content on Hajj and Umrah rituals, alongside catering options tailored to diverse preferences.

Dubai, 21st April 2026: Following the developments in the region earlier this year, and in close coordination with local authorities, we have taken the strategic decision to reschedule the Dubai International Summit for Aviation Training (ISAT) to 14-15 December 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This decision aligns ISAT with Dubai’s winter events season calendar, ensuring optimal conditions for business development, networking, and high-level industry engagement. It also responds directly to feedback and requests from several airlines and ATOs, many of whom have already confirmed their attendance. With 2,000+ attendees already registered, including 160+ airlines and 50+ ATOs, ISAT continues to build strong momentum and is positioning itself as a key platform for aviation training in high-growth markets across the Middle East, Africa, and India.

Muharraq, Bahrain, 9th April 2026: Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), confirms the gradual resumption of some flights. This follows a reopening of the Kingdom of Bahrain airspace as announced by its Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA) at the Ministry of Transportation & Telecommunications. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights.

Raigad-Alibag,09 April 2026: To evaluate the operational readiness of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) in tackling natural or technical calamities, a two-day ‘Multi-Agency Disaster Preparedness Exercise’ was recently concluded at the airport. Organized under the joint aegis of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the drill witnessed active participation from various Central and State Government agencies, showcasing a high level of emergency preparedness. The two-day program commenced with a comprehensive ‘Tabletop Exercise’ session, which involved detailed discussions on strategic planning and inter-departmental coordination during a crisis. This was followed by a demonstration of state-of-the-art rescue equipment and specialized vehicles essential for life-saving operations. The core of the exercise was a ‘Full-Scale Mock Drill’ designed to evaluate real-time responses, including the safe evacuation of people, search and rescue operations, hazard management, and the effective activation of Emergency Operation Centres (EOC). The simulation involved a highly complex ‘multi-hazard’ situation, encompassing challenges such as a cyclone, fire incidents, and the leakage of hazardous radioactive materials. Under these demanding conditions, the agencies underwent rigorous testing on various parameters, including hazard control, fire suppression, evacuation of citizens from multi-storey buildings, efficiency of communication systems, resource mobilization, and ensuring overall security at the site. The mock exercise was graced by the presence of Dr. Dinesh Kumar Aswal and Major General Ajay Verma from NDMA. It also saw active involvement from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Airport Authority of India (AAI), Armed Forces, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). Furthermore, local and technical bodies such as the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC), CIDCO, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Fire Brigade, Civil Defence, Aapda Mitras and the state health Department. To ensure immediate medical assistance during the drill, specialized teams from White Lotus Hospital (Kalamboli), Fortis Hospital (Vashi), and Apollo Hospital (CBD Belapur) were stationed on site.The exercise ensured effective inter-agency coordination and identified potential systemic gaps. The primary objective was to bolster the airport’s resilience in responding effectively to complex emergencies arising from extreme weather and sequential hazards.

New Delhi, 9th April 2026: The unprecedented situation arising out of the ongoing West Asia crisis has posed significant challenges to global aviation operations, including Indian carriers. However, the Indian domestic aviation sector continues to remain resilient and robust, supported by timely and calibrated interventions by the Government. The Ministry of Civil Aviation, while closely monitoring the evolving situation, has undertaken a series of measures to provide relief to domestic carriers. Earlier, the Government had announced the passing of only a partial ATF price hike, capping the increase for domestic airlines at 25% only for domestic operations. Whereas, globally the sharp spike in crude prices has led to a disproportionate rise in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices. This step was aimed at enabling carriers to manage operational costs while ensuring that the benefits of affordable air travel continue to reach passengers. Now, as part of a multi-layered response to these unprecedented challenges, the Ministry has taken another significant decision to reduce landing and parking charges for domestic carriers by 25% for a period of three months. Speaking about the announcement, Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, expressed, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the primary focus of the Government in the aviation sector has been to make flying a more affordable and convenient travel option for passengers. Even in the prevailing challenging situation, when global air operations are impacted, we have ensured that cancellations and rising fuel costs do not severely affect the operations of our domestic carriers. While ATF costs globally have risen by more than 100%, we have passed on only a moderated increase capped at 25%.” Talking further about the interventions, Minister said “Now, with the ultimate aim of supporting airlines and, in turn, passengers, airfare increases are being further contained by reducing landing and parking charges levied by airport operators. This step is part of the Ministry’s overall effort to keep the aviation sector stable during this volatile period and to ensure ease of flying for passengers. This is a significant intervention to provide relief to airlines grappling with increasing operational costs. We are in constant touch with all stakeholders, including airlines, airport operators, and the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA), in this regard.” The Ministry has issued directions to the AERA to reduce landing and parking charges by 25% from the prevailing tariff at all major airports under its purview. This reduction has been brought into immediate effect for all domestic flights and will remain applicable for a period of three months. The AERA has issued an order to this effect, stating that any under-recovery by individual airports shall be adjusted during tariff determination in the next control period of five years. Similarly, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has also been directed to reduce landing and parking charges at all its non-major airports by 25% of the approved rate. This reduction for all domestic flights will also remain applicable for a period of three months. These measures are expected to reduce landing and parking charges payable by airlines at major airports during the three-month period by approximately ₹400 crore. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation, and further necessary measures will be taken to ensure the viability of air operations, as well as safe and affordable air travel for passengers. Courtesy: PIB/MoCA

Muscat,6th April 2026: SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost Carrier, has announced its On-Time Performance (OTP) results for the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing its continued commitment to operational transparency, reliability, and customer trust. OTP is an internationally recognized measure of punctuality, calculated by the percentage of flights departing within 15 minutes of their scheduled departure time. During the first quarter of 2026, SalamAir operated 5520 flights and carried 778,410 passengers across its network, achieving an On-Time Performance of 65.6%. The quarter was impacted by several extraordinary challenges, including regional airspace restrictions, airport closures because of geopolitical developments and rerouting or diversion of aircraft. All these events led to schedule adjustments and disruptions across parts of the network which impacted OTP. SalamAir’s OTP for the fourth quarter of 2025 was 89% and the drop to 65% in Q1 2026 represents a 26% decrease in On Time Performance. Commenting on the results, Adrian Hamilton-Manns, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, said: “On-time performance is a core measure of our operational delivery and reliability. In the first quarter of 2026, we recorded an OTP of 65.6%. While we acknowledge it was a complex period with extraordinary factors impacting flight schedules and operational performance, we apologise to all our customers who did not reach their destination on time. We have previously been among the Top-5 airlines in the region for OTP so today’s results are below our target. We shall focus on strengthening operational resilience and improving schedule reliability to ensure we deliver a consistent and dependable experience for our passengers.” Since the third quarter of 2024, SalamAir has published its OTP results on a quarterly basis, reflecting the airline’s commitment to transparency and accountability. This approach enables passengers to make informed travel decisions while supporting best practices in operational reporting within the regional aviation sector.