Business Aviation

Kuala Lumpur, 30th October 2025: Ascend Airways Malaysia has officially received its AOC and ASP licenses and it will begin operations this November.The airline was first granted its Conditional Air Service Permit (CASP) in 2024. With this part of the process having been successfully completed, Ascend Airways Malaysia is able to start operations with its very first aircraft Boeing 737-800SF. The Kuala Lumpur-based ACMI and charter airline will be offering both passenger and cargo operations in Malaysia and across the broader Southeast Asia region. Subject to additional regulatory approvals, passenger flights are scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2026, alongside the further expansion of Ascend Airways Malaysia’s fleet. According to Germal Singh Khera, CEO of Ascend Airways Malaysia, the airline will provide flexible ACMI solutions to support Malaysia’s aviation expansion, with passenger traffic expected to grow between 8.4% and 15.6% year-on-year in 2025, reaching 105.8–112.9 million passengers. “Malaysia is in an essential strategic position as a logistics and aviation hub that connects Southeast Asia, China, and India. We are very grateful for the support we received from the Ministry of Transport, CAAM, MAVCOM, and other local authorities. This cooperation is helping the aviation industry in Malaysia to develop and realise its full potential,” he says. Germal Singh Khera also expressed his hope that ACMI will soon become a vital part of the Asia-Pacific logistics ecosystem, as this model enables airlines to optimize their revenue during peak season as well as scale their operations more efficiently and successfully navigate operational challenges.

Bangkok, 30th October 2025: Thai SmartLynx, an ACMI specialist airline has received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). This marks a major milestone for Thailand’s aviation industry as Thai SmartLynx becomes the first Thai-based ACMI operator, offering fleet capacity solutions to meet seasonal and operational needs across Thailand and the wider region. Thai SmartLynx is also the first airline in Thailand to obtain an AOC under CAAT’s new Thailand Civil Aviation Regulations on Air Operations (TCAR OPS) framework. Modelled after European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards, TCAR OPS governs key areas such as safety procedures, crew requirements, and operational manuals, designed to align Thailand’s aviation standards with international best practices. Thai SmartLynx will commence operations with an Airbus A320 from its new operations office at Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). The airline plans to progressively expand its fleet by adding 15 to 20 aircraft over the next three to four yearsto support both Thai and regional carriers. “Thai SmartLynx brings flexible capacity solutions to Thailand’s aviation sector” said Martynas Grigas, Chairman of Thai SmartLynx. “Our ACMI model offers airlines a fully operational capacity solution for our partners. This enables carriers to scale operations during peak demand periods or test new routes without major investment or long-term commitments.” Through ACMI partnerships, airlines can add temporary capacity or optimise their networks while minimising capital expenditure.The ACMI (wet lease) model enables airlines to increase overall profitability by 2-3% with the right strategy in place. The AOC certification comes ahead of the upcoming peak travel season, as travellers from Europe and across Asia look to the region for winter escapes and school holiday travel.

SAVANNAH, Ga., October 13, 2025: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced its fleet of corporate, demonstration and support aircraft has surpassed 3 million nautical miles flown on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blends. In addition, the Gulfstream G800, Gulfstream G700, Gulfstream G600 and Gulfstream G400 flew to this week’s 2025 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas using SAF blends. Those aircraft and a mock-up of the newly announced Gulfstream G300 will be on display during the exhibition. “Flying more than 3 million nautical miles on SAF blends is a testament to our commitment to sourcing and demonstrating the benefits of SAF,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We have long been at the forefront of sustainability innovations, and this latest milestone further showcases our leadership and efforts to advance business aviation’s overarching sustainability goals.” Gulfstream continues to maintain a strong supply of SAF at its Savannah headquarters and plans to increase its usage by nearly 50% this year compared to last year. Gulfstream has long been a sustainability leader in business aviation, achieving numerous accomplishments by partnering with fuel developers and engine manufacturers. The company was the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to fly on 100% neat SAF and was also the first OEM to receive National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Sustainable Flight Department Accreditations in all four available categories: flight, operations, ground support and infrastructure. In 2023, Gulfstream made the world’s first trans-Atlantic flight using 100% SAF comprised of 100% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (neat HEFA) in both engines, and in 2024, successfully completed ground emissions testing of 100% neat SAF containing zero sulfur.

Savannah, GA, October 3, 2025: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. had announced the all-new, super-midsize Gulfstream G300 as the latest aircraft to join its next-generation fleet. The aircraft will replace the Gulfstream G280 and feature signature Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows as well as an all-new Harmony Flight Deck, which includes next-generation avionics to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Gulfstream announced the G300 at its exclusive Discover the Difference customer event in Savannah. During the event, Gulfstream President Mark Burns revealed a full-scale mock-up of the G300 and showed photos of the first aircraft in production. “Fueled by a decade of investment and our future-forward approach, the Gulfstream next-generation fleet offers our customers the most innovative family of aircraft,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We know how important the super-midsize cabin segment is to our customers, so building on the highly successful G280 program, the G300 will reenergize the category with its heightened technology and safety enhancements, alongside the legendary comfort and styling of a Gulfstream.” The G300 combines trans-Atlantic range with short-field agility, covering 3,600 nautical miles/6,667 kilometers at Mach 0.80 or 3,000 nm/5,556 km at Mach 0.84. The aircraft features a maximum cruise altitude of 45,000 feet/13,716 meters and the lowest cabin altitude in its class at 4,800 ft/1,463 m when flying at 41,000 ft/12,497 m. This comes alongside 100% fresh air, a plasma ionization air purification system and 10 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows. With the longest cabin in its class and two living areas, the G300 accommodates up to 10 passengers. The G300 Harmony Flight Deck includes six touch screens, paired with Phase-of-Flight intelligence, bringing intuitive technology to pilots. A Synthetic Vision-Primary Flight Display depicts runways and terrain in 3D imagery to boost pilot situational awareness, and Gulfstream’s award-winning Predictive Landing Performance System dynamically displays the runway stopping point in real time. With an ideal combination of size, advanced avionics and aerodynamic design, the G300 is primed for fast, efficient flight with its high-thrust Honeywell engines, coupled with the clean, swept Gulfstream wing to support fuel-efficiency. “The G300 program is making great progress and the vision for this aircraft is well on its way to becoming a reality for our customers as they look for an airplane that will exceed their expectations in the super- midsize class,” added Burns. Gulfstream has already accomplished nearly 22,000 hours of testing at its state-of-the-art lab facilities, which includes an Integration Test Facility (ITF) with Iron Bird capability. The facility completed its “first flight” last month. It has also completed nearly 2,000 ground test hours on the first aircraft as well as started manufacturing two additional test aircraft.

Jakarta, 15th Sept 2025: BBN Airlines Indonesia, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, has received the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Third-Country Operator (TCO) authorisation effective 5 September 2025. This approval enables the wet lease provider to operate in the European Union (EU) and expand its ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) service to airlines operating flights into the EU. All non-European operators seeking to fly to the EU are required to hold a TCO permit, which certifies compliance with EASA safety and operational standards. With this approval, operators may obtain commercial air operations permits across all EASA member states without requiring separate authorisation from individual EU countries. “Securing the EASA TCO marks an important milestone for BBN Airlines Indonesia,” said Martynas Grigas, Chairman of BBN Airlines Indonesia.“It reflects not only our unwavering commitment to global safety and compliance standards but also our readiness to support airlines with scalable ACMI solutions as they expand into and within the EU market.” BBN Airlines Indonesia currently operates a fleet of six Boeing 737 aircraft, with two additional aircraft scheduled to join by October 2025. Earlier this year, the airline also achieved its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, further demonstrating its dedication to the highest levels of safety and operational performance. The EASA TCO authorisation is a key step in BBN Airlines Indonesia’s growth strategy, strengthening its ability to deliver flexible, safe, and reliable ACMI capacity solutions to its partner airlines in Indonesia, the Asia-Pacific region, and now the EU.The TCO also enables BBN Airlines Indonesia to deploy its aircraft to Europe in summer when capacity is needed most, particularly in response to counter-cyclical seasonal demand patterns. This flexibility enhances the airline’s ability to support European carriers during peak periods while maintaining strong ACMI operations in its home markets.

SAVANNAH, 3rd September, 2025: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced the successful completion of its 100th Starlink high-speed internet installation. The system was installed on a Gulfstream G650ER at the company’s Fort Worth Alliance Service Center in Texas. This milestone comes less than a year after Gulfstream received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supplemental type certification to install Starlink on the award-winning G650 and G650ER, providing customers with the added convenience of working directly with the company to upgrade connectivity for their aircraft. To date, Gulfstream has earned similar certifications from the FAA to install Starlink service on the G800, G700, G600, G500, G550 and GV models with plans to add more. Gulfstream customers also have the option of Starlink installations on in-production G800, G700, G600 and G500 aircraft. “No one knows Gulfstream aircraft better than we do, and by providing these additional certified installation capabilities within our facilities, customers can work directly with our experts,” said Lor Izzard, senior vice president, Gulfstream Customer Support. “We value customers’ trust in our team as we continue to deliver a seamless, safe and high-quality service experience.” Starlink gives passengers simultaneous access to a variety of in-flight services, including video calls, cloud-based offerings and data transfers through its high-speed in-flight connectivity, which delivers latency less than 90 milliseconds and download speeds of 100 – 250 Mbps. Gulfstream customers who are interested in having Starlink installed on their aircraft should reach out to their Gulfstream Customer Support sales representative.

Everett,CA & Oshkosh, 24th July , 2025: magniX, the company powering the electric aviation revolution, and Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson), the manufacturer of civil helicopters, have agreed to jointly develop a battery electric demonstrator based on the Robinson R66 platform. The two companies plan to have the first flight of this demonstrator take place in late 2026. magniX will provide its fully integrated electric powertrain for helicopters, including the first of its range of lightweight, high speed HeliStorm engines designed for rotorcraft applications. It will also share its Samson batteries, with the highest energy density in aerospace and unmatched cycle life. “We are excited to be working with Robinson to lead the transformation of the helicopter industry by creating the next generation of vertical lift propulsion systems,” said Reed Macdonald, CEO of magniX. “We have already flown two groundbreaking electric Robinson helicopters and I look forward to deploying our HeliStorm electric engines and Samson batteries under this program.” Bringing the Electric Helicopter Age to Life In 2022, magniX powered the first flight of a retrofitted electric Robinson R44 helicopter followed in March 2025 with the world’s first piloted flight by a hydrogen-electric helicopter, another retrofitted R44. In 2026, the electrification of the R66 – one of the world’s most ubiquitous helicopters with over 1,500 units in service and more than 100 new units sold every year – will revolutionize the vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) market with its single rotor simplicity and flight proven capabilities. “magniX’s proven experience in electric propulsion, and previous experience with the R44 makes them the right partner to collaborate on alternative powerplant solutions,” said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “This agreement allows us to develop market-leading, zero-emission solutions that meet the needs of many critical mission types.” “We have demonstrated the clear cost, noise and safety benefits of magniX’s fully-integrated electric powertrains,” said Riona Armesmith, CTO of magniX. “magniX technology is well suited to meeting the needs of the helicopter market and we’re proud to partner with Robinson as they seek to develop cost-effective electric helicopters with a clear path to certification.”

Gulfstream has delivered 200+ special missions aircraft to support governments and militaries in more than 40 countries. It’s also the leader in business jet segments having most advanced fleet meeting the requirements of its clients. In an exclusive interview, Mr. Mark Burns, President, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation. shares his thoughts with Vishal Kashyap, Managing Editor, Aviation World on special mission aircraft and its market size, the business jet segments, sustainability, thoughts for India and many more important issues. Excerpts of the interview: What are the portfolios that Gulfstream Special Mission Aircraft caters to? More than 200 Gulfstream special missions aircraft have been delivered to over 40 countries, including all branches of the U.S. military. A record number of deliveries and projects are currently underway in aeromedical transport, airborne research, command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and airborne early warning. What’s the market size for special mission aircraft and where does Gulfstream position itself? We see strong demand for Gulfstream’s special missions business, and opportunities for growth exist across our product line. Gulfstream aircraft are ideal for special missions for the following reasons: • Gulfstream-modified aircraft help create an aircraft architecture that can easily accommodate shifting technologies and integrate the latest communications systems and command and control systems • Gulfstream’s fleet offers compelling combinations of size and speed ideal for special missions • Our large-cabin aircraft can perform missions at higher altitudes, reach those altitudes more quickly and fly farther for longer durations. • Gulfstream performance advantages include lower fuel burn and lower maintenance Gulfstream also has the unique ability to manage aircraft modifications in-house with a dedicated team of engineers and professionals at our special missions facilities. Such modifications executed by Gulfstream include significant aircraft adaptations to support and accommodate specialized equipment necessary to address mission-critical needs. Who are the potential customers for special mission aircraft and which segment of its operation is the most preferred one? Governments, militaries and institutions around the world choose Gulfstream for their special missions aircraft needs, whether for medevac aircraft, head-of-state transport, atmospheric research or highly specialized military applications. Gulfstream’s new family of advanced technology aircraft provide a wide range of solutions for today’s special mission requirements. From the G280, to the G700 and G800, our fleet of aircraft offers unparalleled combinations of range, speed and cabin size to support a variety of requirements. What are the specifications of the business jet categories of G700 and G600 in terms of operational capability, SAF and advanced technology? Gulfstream’s next-generation family of aircraft, including the G400, G500, G600, G700 and G800 offer an aircraft for every mission, and they do so with industry leading flight deck technology, safety, cabin comfort and efficiency. This next-generation fleet features safety enhancements and technology that have transformed business aviation, including the Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck with the industry’s first active-control sidesticks and most extensive touch screen technology – it was purposefully designed to be simple and intuitive, reducing the crew’s workload and increasing time saved. Gulfstream’s research and development investments have also enabled us to create a cabin environment that is the most comfortable in the industry and supports passenger health and well-being. The Gulfstream Cabin Experience includes 100% fresh, never recirculated air, industry leading low cabin altitudes, and a plasma air ionization system, all complemented by Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows that allow an abundance of natural light to fill the cabin –these elements help ease passengers’ transitions through different time zones. We also lead the industry in sustainability with fuel-efficient, noise- and emissions-reducing aircraft and continued innovations with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Gulfstream completed the world’s first trans-Atlantic flight on 100% SAF – a significant step forward in the research and development of using 100% SAF – and was also the first in the business aviation industry to conduct ground emissions testing of 100% neat SAF containing zero sulfur, a significant step in further reducing the overall climate impact of business aviation. In addition, Gulfstream’s large-cabin aircraft were designed with advanced aerodynamics and feature engines with advanced technology, which, combined, reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency. All these developments also help our customers meet their own sustainability goals. What value proposition does Sustainable Wings accreditation from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) add? We were excited to set two new city-pair speed records on SAF with the G700 in June and earn the NAA’s Sustainable Wings certification for both flights – Gulfstream also earned the NAA’s first Sustainable Wings certification in 2021 on the G500.Demonstrating the use of SAF in setting speed records and earning the Sustainable Wings accreditation is important to us in our efforts to show the efficacy of SAF and promoting sustainability across the aviation industry as a whole. What’s your take on the Gulfstream’s presence as well as demand from India? The market in India is very important for Gulfstream, and we are seeing increased interest in the region. We are also seeing an increase in charter traffic in India, which can ultimately lead to new buyers after they experience first-hand the benefits of business aviation. What’s the order line that you have at present? Gulfstream is currently experiencing one of the biggest backlogs in company history, thanks to robust demand for our aircraft from around the world.

London, 11th July 2025: Titan Airways, European charter airline has purchased its first Embraer E190LR regional jet. The newly registered aircraft G-POWX, joined Titan’s 13-strong fleet of modern passenger and cargo aircraft on 27th June andis nowavailable for ad-hoc charter and lease bookings. The Embraer E190LR is a complementary addition to the airline’s mainstay Airbus family of A320, A321 and A321LR variants. Currently configured in dual-class layout with nine business class and 88 economy seats,the E190LR is better suited for domestic and regional operations. Alex Harrington, Titan Airways Commercial Director, commented: “We are delighted to introduce the Embraer 190LR into our fleet. This modern aircraft will allow us to offer our clients a more fuel-efficient option when serving the 70-seat + charter market. It has a spacious cabin and nicely fills the gap for smaller capacity charter and lease requests in the UK and Europe.”To optimise its charter appeal, Titan plans to offer varied cabin options, including a 100 seat all-economy layout, he noted. “Boasting an impressive range of 2,400nm and the capability to operate to restrictive airfields, such as London City, Florence, Berne, and San Sebastien, we are confident the Embraer 190LR will be a popular addition to our fleet. We are already seeing considerable interest and bookings from airline and charter customers,”he stated, adding the airline is already looking at other opportunities to add more EJet variants to the fleet. Titan Airways may be new to the E190LR, but its commercial fleet is supported by an Embraer Phenom 300 light jet, which is regularly used to position crews and engineers. The eight-seat executive jet is also available to charter via business aviation specialists, SaxonAir.

Copenhagen, July 1st, 2025: Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has entered into an agreement to acquire 45 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional 10 aircraft — the largest SAS jet order direct from a manufacturer since 1996. This milestone agreement supports SAS’ long-term fleet renewal strategy, which is focused on increasing efficiency, reducing emissions, and unlocking future growth opportunities from its global hub in Copenhagen as well as across its Scandinavian and international network. The first aircraft deliveries from Embraer are scheduled to begin in late 2027, with further deliveries extending over approximately four years. Excluding purchase rights, the value for the order is approximately US$4 billion. “This is a defining moment for SAS,” says Anko van der Werff, President & CEO, SAS. “The Embraer E195-E2 is a world-class aircraft, combining outstanding performance with excellent fuel efficiency and comfort. This aircraft is key to enabling future growth and improved connectivity across Scandinavia and beyond. We’ve taken the time to make the right decision — and this major investment reflects our confidence in the future and the strength of the agreement we’ve secured.” The E195-E2 will play a vital role in optimizing SAS’ operations and enhancing connectivity across Scandinavia and Europe. Its size and range are ideally suited to complement SAS’ existing fleet and route structure, allowing for more frequencies, better network flexibility, and lower trip costs. Built for the future of sustainable aviation “The E2 is central to our strategy to build a modern, efficient fleet with strong performance. It enables us to serve more routes with lower emissions, better economics, and a premium experience for our passengers,” adds Van der Werff. “Together with Embraer, we are setting the course for the next chapter of SAS.” The E2 family of aircraft has already been tested with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and is in the process of being fully certified to fly on 100% SAF in the foreseeable future. Today blends of up to 50% SAF are already achievable. Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: “We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with SAS through this landmark deal. The E2 is the quietest single aisle jet available today – 29% more fuel efficient and with a 62% reduction in noise footprint over the previous generation jet, the E195-E2 is a game-changer in terms of efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort. We are confident that these aircraft will play a crucial role in SAS’ fleet renewal and expansion strategy, supporting their ambitious growth plans and enhancing their operational capabilities.” Powered by Pratt & Whitney’s advanced PW1900G GTF engines, the E195-E2 delivers double-digit reductions in fuel burn, emissions, and noise compared to previous-generation aircraft. The new fleet will help lower SAS’ environmental footprint and reinforce its position as a driving force in reducing aviation’s climate impact. This order marks another step in SAS’ future-focused transformation, supporting a modernized fleet and improved travel experience. SAS continues to strengthen its overall network and international reach while enhancing connectivity between regional cities and global destinations through more seamless and sustainable operations.This order was facilitated by the support of Skyworks Holding.