Business Aviation

Business Aviation

Special Missions Cessna SkyCourier to appear at Farnborough International Airshow

WICHITA, Kan.,23 June, 2026: Textron Aviation will showcase Cessna SkyCourier at the static display of the upcoming Farnborough International Airshow, giving global customers and media an up‑close look at the aircraft’s expanding role in special missions, military and government operations. Why It Matters The Farnborough International Airshow provides an opportunity to highlight growing international interest in the Cessna SkyCourier as it enters new global defense markets. “A fleet of five Cessna SkyCourier aircraft, similar to the one on display, was recently selected by Belgium to support its special operations forces,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense. “This first announced military purchase shows strong interest in the SkyCourier and proves it is ready for high‑stakes missions.” More than 1,700 Cessna and Beechcraft turbine aircraft manufactured by Textron Aviation operate across Europe today, including more than 850 Cessna Citation business jets, 450 Beechcraft King Air turboprops and 175 Cessna Caravan turboprops. About the Special Missions Cessna SkyCourier  The twin‑engine, high‑wing Cessna SkyCourier turboprop is designed for flexible missions, low operating costs and operations from rough or remote airfields. The aircraft offers flexible cabin layouts, strong payload and proven performance from rough or remote airfields. Optional special mission capabilities include: Two underwing stations per side (up to 625 pounds inboard and 465 pounds outboard) for mission equipment, external fuel or cargo. Extended‑fuel system adding 79 gallons of overwing fuel to increase endurance by approximately 50 minutes. Powered patient‑loading system to support aeromedical and humanitarian missions. In-flight Operable Door supporting airborne mission flexibility. Equipment for static-line jumps, with anchor points, jump lights and a dedicated control panel.

Business Aviation

Nomad Technics completes BBJ maintenance, refurbishment and satcom upgrade

Basel, 22 June, 2026 : Nomad Technics has recently redelivered a Boeing BBJ after extensive  maintenance and various upgrades. The aircraft, owned and operated by Action Aviation, came to Basel for a 12 year inspection and landing gear overhaul. To make optimal use of the ground time, Action Aviation selected a  number of upgrades for the aircraft and its interior. Nomad Technics installed the Gogo Galileo FDX satcom system, one of the first such installations on a BBJ world-wide. Aero Visto re-upholstered all seats and divans in a bespoke design by Aero Visto and Simrick supplier a new carpe, to give the cabin a completely fresh appearance. The monitors of  the in-flight entertainment system were replaced with larger, higher resolution monitors and the system was upgraded with the addition of an app-based video on demand streaming system, designed specifically for the client. The cabin lighting system in the aircraft was changed to multicolor LED mood lights which be controlled with an app. Nomad Technics also installed a completely new app based moving map system to be displayed on the cabin monitors as well as personal devices. “The project was interesting and challenging to put together, but I think that’s something that made us win because the client saw how quickly and efficiently we can do things. Our responsiveness, honesty and transparency built trust with the customer and we carried that on throughout the  project. They were involved in all the parts even in the quotation phrase. It was a collaborative effort.”, says Brigita Vildžiūnienė, Director of Sales of Nomad Technics. ” We are grateful to Action Aviation and our partners that have entrusted us with such a large scale project. To allow us to work on this airplane. It has been a wonderful experience.”, adds Thomas Gierlich, CEO of Nomad Technics.

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)

Business Aviation

RoyalJet appoints Ashok Kumar as VP for Resources and Transformation

UAE,8th June 2026:  RoyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-based global private jet operator, has announced the appointment of Ashok Kumar as Vice-President for Resources and Transformation. He is a seasoned C-suite executive and aviation industry specialist with over 30 years of experience spanning financial leadership, corporate services, and operational excellence. A member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and a Chartered Financial Analyst, he brings a rare combination of deep financial expertise and sector-specific knowledge that has made him a trusted leader across some of the region’s most prominent aviation organizations. Having previously served as Vice President of Finance and Corporate Services at RoyalJet, Ashok has spent nearly two decades with RoyalJet. During his tenure, he oversaw a portfolio generating approximately AED 1 billion in annual revenue and led a team of over 400 employees, driving robust financial management, cost optimization, and enterprise-wide risk strategy. Prior to RoyalJet, Ashok served as Financial Business Support Manager at Gulf Air, one of the Middle East’s legacy carriers. Before that, he spent nine years as Management Accountant at Presidential Flight — the UAE’s elite government aviation directorate, originally established under the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. There, he developed a deep expertise in high-security, mission-critical financial operations. He launched his career at Ernst & Young, where he built a strong foundation in accounting, risk management and financial controls.He is recognised for his ability to maximise profitability through rigorous financial discipline, drive enterprise-wide risk strategies, and lead diverse teams across all organisational levels “I am honoured to take on this expanded mandate at RoyalJet, an organisation I have had the privilege of serving for nearly two decades. As we enter this next chapter, my focus will be on digital transformation and fleet replacement, two strategic priorities that will position RoyalJetfor sustainable growth” said Ashok Kumar, Vice-President, Resources and Transformation, RoyalJet.  

Business Aviation

Cessna SkyCourier enters service in the Philippines with first delivery to Leading Edge Air Services Corporation

Wichita,5th June, 2026: Designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, the Cessna SkyCourier has entered service in the Philippines with the first delivery to Leading Edge Air Services Corporation (LEASCOR), expanding passenger and cargo connectivity across the country’s island communities through a versatile, mission-ready turboprop. The aircraft delivered to LEASCOR, a wholly owned subsidiary of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, is a 19‑passenger variant equipped with the optional passenger‑to‑freighter conversion kit. The configuration allows operators to quickly transition between full passenger and full cargo missions, supporting a wide range of domestic transport, tourism and logistics operations.   “Being able to shift seamlessly between passenger and cargo missions is critical for operators serving remote and regional markets,” said Juan Escalante, vice president, SkyCourier Sales. “The Cessna SkyCourier provides a dependable, versatile platform that enables operators to respond quickly to changing transportation needs while maintaining efficiency.” Engineered for dependable performance in rugged environments, the twin‑engine, high‑wing turboprop combines generous payload capacity with excellent short takeoff and landing performance. Its large cargo door supports efficient loading while fixed landing gear and Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑65SC engines contribute to durability and operational confidence across a variety of mission profiles. LEASCOR was established in 2016 as the air chartering arm of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, which serves members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other uniformed personnel, including active service members, retirees, reservists and civilian employees. “The arrival of our first Cessna SkyCourier marks a defining milestone for Leading Edge Air Services Corporation,” said Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, Armed Forces of the Philippines (Ret). “It strengthens our ability to provide reliable air connectivity to communities that depend on consistent passenger and cargo service, particularly in remote areas.” “With the SkyCourier, we are strengthening our capability to open underserved routes, enhance logistics and support regional economies. It allows us to respond faster, serve farther and operate more efficiently, advancing our goal of helping build a resilient, future ready aviation network for the Philippines.” – Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, Armed Forces of the Philippines (Ret).   “What makes the SkyCourier invaluable is its purpose-built versatility, supported by twin-engine reliability, high payload capacity and the ability to operate on short and unpaved runways. These capabilities enable seamless passenger and cargo operations, even in remote areas.With the SkyCourier, we are strengthening our capability to open underserved routes, enhance logistics and support regional economies. It allows us to respond faster, serve farther and operate more efficiently, advancing our goal of helping build a resilient, future ready aviation network for the Philippines,” said Maj. Gen. Llanto.

Business Aviation

Avion Express Appoints Vytenis Suklys as Chief Executive Officer

Lithuania, 26th May 2026: Avion Express, global ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) operator has appointed Vytenis Suklys as Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1st of June.Vytenis Suklys brings a strong background in both airline business and financial management. He previously served as Chief Financial Officer of Avion Express, giving him deep familiarity with the company’s operations and strategy. Beyond aviation, he has accumulated broad experience within large logistics business group. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening operational performance and driving the company’s continued growth across global markets. Suklys succeeds Darius Kajokas who led the company for more than eight years, overseeing a period of exceptional growth, international expansion, and operational excellence.“I am proud to take on the CEO role and fully embrace the challenge ahead. Avion Express has an exceptional team and a strong business model that I know well. The company is in great shape following its recent transformation, and I am excited to build on this foundation. My focus will be on continuing to grow the business, deepening our customer relationships, and expanding our international footprint. I look forward to working with our talented people to take Avion Express to its next level,” said Vytenis Suklys, Chief Executive Officer of Avion Express. Jonas Janukenas, CEO of Avia Solutions Group, added: “I am delighted to welcome Vytenis and trust his leadership. I would also like to thank Darius for his dedication and the strong foundation he leaves behind. As we look to the future, Avion Express remains a pivotal cornerstone of Avia Solutions Group’s global growth strategy. Under Vytenis’s leadership, we are confident the company will continue to expand its international footprint, capitalise on new market opportunities, and deliver leading services to our customers globally.” The appointment marks a significant milestone for Avion Express as the company concludes an optimisation process and scales its international presence. Its ACMI operations in Brazil, launched last year, are progressing on track, with further fleet expansion planned for Avion Express Brasil in 2026. The company’s leadership transition is a planned and carefully considered step, designed to align with this new strategic chapter. “Over the past eight years, I am proud to have contributed to the successful development and growth of Avion Express. I would like to thank the team for their professionalism and dedication to the company. I believe these qualities will serve as the foundation for the company’s continued growth and strengthening of its market position in the years ahead,” says Darius Kajokas. Avion Express currently provides ACMI services to major carriers including Eurowings, Transavia, and Air Algérie, and operates charter flights for tour operator Novaturas. The company continues to grow its international customer base as demand for flexible ACMI capacity expands across multiple regions. As part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider, Avion Express plays a central role in delivering agile capacity solutions to airlines worldwide.

Business Aviation

Empire Aviation Group appoints Paul van der Blom as Head of Aircraft Management

Dubai, 22nd May 2026: Empire Aviation Group, a Dubai-based global provider of integrated private aviation services, has appointed Paul van der Blom as Head of Aircraft Management, reinforcing the company’s leadership team as its managed business jet fleet continues to expand. He will oversee a fleet of more than 20 business jets under management, supporting aircraft owners with operational oversight, asset optimisation and charter revenue opportunities. Aircraft management remains a core pillar of Empire Aviation’s offering, with many managed aircraft also placed on charter to help offset ownership costs. Paul van der Blom brings more than 30 years of aviation industry experience across Europe and the Middle East, with senior leadership roles spanning aircraft sales, aircraft management, leasing, commercial strategy and client relations. His previous roles include positions with Airbus, DC Aviation, ExecuJet, Hawker Pacific, Luxaviation Group and TAG Aviation. He joined Empire Aviation from a Dubai-based operator, where he served in the Fleet Strategy division. In addition to his substantial professional experience, Paul holds a Master of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and attended various management programs at IMD Switzerland. Commenting on the appointment, Paras P. Dhamecha, Founder and Managing Director of Empire Aviation Group, said: “Paul van der Blom’s extensive international experience and deep understanding of aircraft ownership, operations and client requirements make him a valuable addition to our leadership team at a time of sustained growth and with a strong pipeline of new aircraft. It’s all about building trust with owners who want the reassurance of entrusting their multimillion-dollar assets to experienced managers.”

Business Aviation

Berjaya Air takes delivery of first ATR 72-600 featuring all business class cabin

Kuala Lumpur, 22 May 2026: The world’s first ATR 72-600 featuring the ATR HighLine “All-Business Class” configuration touched down in Kuala Lumpur, marking a major milestone for regional aviation. ATR’s new cabin concept received certification from both EASA and the Malaysian authorities earlier this month, confirming its readiness for commercial operations worldwide. The delivery represents a dual first for Berjaya Air; the airline’s inaugural ATR 72-600 and the launch platform for ATR’s new premium cabin collection. It also heralds a new era in regional travel, combining semi-private flying comfort with the proven efficiency of turboprop operations. The aircraft features a fully bespoke, all–business class cabin, accommodating 26 seats in a spacious and unique 1-by-1 layout, ensuring every guest benefits from direct aisle access and direct view to multiple windows. The handcrafted ETEREA seats by Geven – the widest ever installed on the ATR platform – offer generous living space and a refined personal side console with integrated stowage. One of the cabin’s most distinctive elements is the executive style ceiling, where overhead bins have been replaced by sleek valence panels. This design opens up the cabin, floods the interior with natural light, and creates a volume comparable to that of the world’s largest private aircraft – all on board the most fuel-efficient regional aircraft. Berjaya Air will begin operating the aircraft in the coming days, launching its first flight on a new route between Subang and Koh Samui. It will then roll out its “affordable luxury” experience on its newly expanded regional network, with direct connections throughout Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, and a focus on serving Berjaya Group’s portfolio of hotels and resorts. Travellers will benefit from a seamless experience that offer a high touch of hospitality to island destinations such as Redang and Langkawi. The new aircraft in ATR HighLine All-Business Class configuration will also be available for charter operations across the Asia-Pacific region. Syed Ali Shahul Hameed, Group CEO of Berjaya Property Berhald, said: “Taking delivery of the world’s first ATR 72-600 in ATR HighLine configuration marks an important step in Berjaya Air’s transformation journey. This new cabin experience enables us to offer guests a seamless and refined journey to some of the region’s most sought-after destinations, while maintaining our strong commitment to operational efficiency and service excellence. Whether serving resort destinations or charter operations across the region, the ATR HighLine cabin allows us to deliver an end-to-end premium travel experience that reflects Berjaya’s hospitality heritage and long-term vision.” ATR CEO Nathalie Tarnaud Laude added: “This milestone demonstrates how the ATR family continues to evolve to meet new market expectations. The ATR HighLine cabin collection opens new possibilities for operators seeking exceptional onboard comfort while leveraging all the efficiency and operational benefits of the aircraft. Together with Berjaya Air, we are demonstrating the inherent versatility of the ATR platform, capable of adapting to a wide range of operator needs without compromising its core strengths.” Berjaya Air will take delivery of a second factory-new ATR 72-600 in the same “All-Business Class” configuration in the third quarter of this year.

Business Aviation

Cessna SkyCourier to support expanded inter-island service for AIR Marshall Islands

Wichita, 18th May 2026: The Cessna SkyCourier has reached a new milestone with the recent delivery of the first aircraft into the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI). The 19‑passenger variant delivered to AIR Marshall Islands Inc. (AMI) is equipped with the optional passenger‑to‑freighter conversion kit, enabling the aircraft to transition between full passenger and full cargo configurations. The delivery marks a significant milestone in strengthening essential air service across the country. With communities comprised of widely dispersed islands, regional air service plays an important role in supporting commerce, travel and vital freight transport in the region. The SkyCourier’s flexible cabin configurations and strong runway performance will help AMI streamline inter-island services. “Built with customer needs and operational efficiency at the forefront, the Cessna SkyCourier provides a dependable platform to support consistent, day‑to‑day operations,” said Juan Escalante, vice president, SkyCourier sales. “The aircraft was designed for operators like AIR Marshall Islands who require adaptability and unparalleled performance across a wide variety of missions.” Based in the capital, Majuro, AIR Marshall Islands is a commercially operated airline owned by the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. With an additional SkyCourier expected to deliver this year, AMI selected the aircraft to enhance connectivity and expand services throughout the nation’s atolls and outer islands. “The SkyCourier’s high payload capability and versatile design will allow AMI to transport both passengers and cargo more efficiently, including essential goods such as food, medical supplies, mail and other critical freight.” -Captain Albon Jelke, general manager & CEO of AIR Marshall Islands, Inc. “The delivery of our Cessna SkyCourier represents a significant milestone for AIR Marshall Islands (AMI) and its mission to provide dependable air transportation across the Republic of the Marshall Islands,” said Captain Albon Jelke, general manager & CEO of AIR Marshall Islands, Inc. “The SkyCourier’s high payload capability and versatile design will allow AMI to transport both passengers and cargo more efficiently, including essential goods such as food, medical supplies, mail and other critical freight.” About the Cessna SkyCourier • The twin-engine, high-wing Cessna SkyCourier turboprop offers a combination of performance and lower operating costs for air freight, commuter and special mission operators • Available in freighter or 19-passenger variant • Optional passenger to freighter conversion capability • Optional Combi configuration, accommodating up to nine passengers while carrying freight • 19-passenger variant features large cabin windows for natural light and views • Both versions offer single-point pressure refueling to enable faster turnarounds • Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC turboprop engines • Equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics

Business Aviation

Ascend Airways to surrender UK Air Operator Certificate

London,29th April 2026: Ascend Airways has announced a strategic decision to surrender its UK Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) and return its fleet of six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to lessors. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have contributed to a sustained increase in jet fuel prices. This volatility has created a challenging outlook for the upcoming summer season, with many carriers already reducing capacity. For Ascend Airways, these external pressures have compounded the structural challenges of operating a UK AOC within the European ACMI market. A lack of reciprocal wet leasing rights for UK carriers, combined with a higher cost base, have made the UK certificate a more expensive and less agile option compared to EU AOCs. Ascend Airways operated a fleet consisting exclusively of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft powered by CFM LEAP 1B engines. Engine reliability issues associated with early-production engine configurations have impacted performance, resulting in increased maintenance requirements and reduced aircraft availability. Ascend Airways also informed that it has met all April payroll obligations in full ahead of the surrender of its AOC. All employees are receiving ongoing support regarding their rights and entitlements. The airline maintained full operational compliance throughout the winter season, meeting contractual obligations or, where necessary, exiting agreements in an orderly and agreed manner. By working closely with stakeholders, a managed wind-down of operations has been achieved to minimise disruption to customers, consumers and aircraft lessors.

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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