Business Aviation

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.

Paris Airshow, Le Bourget: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced that the Gulfstream G700 has set two new city-pair speed records en route to the International Paris Air Show at Paris-Le Bourget airport. The G700 flew the record flights on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and will receive Sustainable Wings accreditation from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) for each flight. The aircraft flew from Teterboro, New Jersey, to San Francisco, traveling 2,272 nautical miles/4,208 kilometers in 4 hours and 57 minutes at an average speed of Mach 0.91. It then flew from San Francisco to Paris, traveling 4,947 nm/9,162 km in 9 hours and 26 minutes at an average speed of Mach 0.91. “Recognition from our partners at the NAA and these latest record-breaking flights further demonstrate Gulfstream’s industry-leading commitment to sustainability,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We are excited for the G700 and our award-winning Gulfstream G600 to return to the International Paris Air Show this year and look forward to showcasing the compelling combination of advanced technology, performance and comfort as increased demand for our next-generation aircraft continues in Europe.” The G700 features the most spacious cabin in the industry and the Gulfstream Cabin Experience with 100% fresh air, natural light from 20 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows and the industry’s lowest cabin altitude. With a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935 and a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90, the ultralong-range G700 has more than 80 city-pair speed records to date. The performance capabilities of the G700 can be attributed to the combination of Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, Gulfstream-designed advanced aerodynamic wing and high-speed winglet introduced on the aircraft. The G700 is also outfitted with the award-winning Predictive Landing Performance System and dual head-up display featuring Gulfstream’s new Combined Vision System (CVS) that unites Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) and Synthetic Vision System (SVS) in a single image, increasing pilot situational awareness and access to more airports.

Paris Airshow: At the Paris Airshow 2025, AURA AERO signed an agreement with Megatron Aerospace Pvt Ltd, which becomes the manufacturer’s exclusive dealer in India for its INTEGRAL family of aircraft. Headquartered in New Delhi, Megatron Aerospace has sold over 100 aircraft across the country and has also introduced a wide range of aircraft to the Indian market — from reliable training aircraft to cutting-edge twin-engine jets. “MAPL is a renowned aviation market player boasting vast experience selling and supporting aircraft. Having them in our network will significantly strengthen our position and expand our reach in India. We will be able to access a wide range of new sales and service opportunities, while strengthening our order book for the INTEGRAL family, the future of sustainable aviation!” said Jérémy Caussade, Co-founder and CEO of AURA AERO. Drew McEwen, Chief Commercial Officer at AURA AERO, added: “We are thrilled to be partnering with MAPL, a respected aviation partner in India, to benefit from their extensive experience and their wide network to develop the sales of our INTEGRAL family of aircraft. This new partnership will considerably help develop our customer base and we are very excited about that”. INTEGRAL is a new-generation two-seater side-by-side training aircraft with aerobatic capabilities, suited for civil and military use and available in thermal or fully electric versions: ● INTEGRAL R: aerobatics, tailwheel, thermal engine (Lycoming), EASA certified, pending FAA certification in 2025, deliveries ongoing since April 2025; ● INTEGRAL S: training and leisure, nosewheel, thermal engine (Lycoming), pending EASA certification; ● INTEGRAL E: available in R or S version, electric motor (Safran ENGINeUS), ongoing flight test campaign since December 2024, EASA certification and first deliveries expected in Q4 2026. Sudeep Narula, Chairman and Managing Director of MAPL,said, “Driven by a passionate team of aviation enthusiasts, we pride ourselves on turning our clients’ aviation dreams into reality. At Megatron Aerospace, we don’t just fly — we elevate possibilities, and we think that AURA AERO’s aircraft are just the right planes for that”. He adds: “As a next-generation aviation company, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of technology, safety, and service. Our mission is to lead with innovation and integrity, pioneering sustainable flight solutions that shape the future of aviation.”

Paris Air Show, Le Bourget: Daher Aircraft’s turboprop-powered TBM airplane family marked a new milestone with the delivery of the 600th aircraft in the TBM 900-series, which was provided to its customer at the Paris Air Show. To date, more than 1,260 TBMs have been produced overall in six variants since the airplane’s 1990 service entry, beginning with the TBM 700 and TBM 850; and followed by the five versions in the TBM 900-series: the TBM 900, TBM 910, TBM 930, TBM 940 and TBM 960. The global TBM fleet has logged more than 2.6 million flight hours in service around the world. Daher’s milestone TBM 900-series aircraft is a TBM 960 version received by Jim Baum, a U.S.- based businessman who has been an operations executive in various technology firms for the past 30 years, and also manages the Minus 7 air-to-air visual communications company for aviation video and photography. As with more than half of the TBM customer base, Baum is a repeat buyer, having owned a TBM 940 and a TBM 930. Nicholas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher Aircraft’s division, said the TBM’s continued market demand reflects the aircraft’s combination of efficiency, sustainability and speed – backed by the global Daher Care support Network. “Attributes for the TBM’s success include its combination of jet-like speeds with turboprop performance, opening access to shorter runways, lowering fuel consumption and providing operational efficiency,” Chabbert stated. “We remain committed to the TBM product line’s competitiveness with an emphasis on listening to the customer and applying proven technology for further enhancements in sustainability, maintainability, flight safety and operability.” Daher’s introduction of the first TBM 900-series aircraft was in 2014 with the TBM 900 version, featuring such aerodynamic improvements as the addition of winglets, the use of new engine cowlings, and the integration of Hartzell’s five-blade scimitar propeller. In 2016, the TBM 900-series family was augmented by the TBM 930, equipped with Garmin’s touchscreen-controlled G3000 integrated flight deck. This variant incorporated the initial elements of TBM e-copilot® functionality, which lowers pilot workload and provides better situational awareness. Daher Aircraft further evolved the TBM 900 series in 2018 with the mid-category TBM 910, featuring Garmin’s G1000 NXi avionics. In 2019, production of the TBM 930 was succeeded by the TBM 940, which integrated the autothrottle function in its G3000 avionics suite. In 2020, the TBM 940 became one of the first aircraft equipped with the revolutionary HomeSafe™ emergency autoland system. The TBM 960 is the latest TBM 900-series version, unveiled by Daher Aircraft in 2022 and integrating the new PT6E-66XT turboprop engine – purpose-built by Pratt & Whitney Canada for this aircraft, as well as Hartzell Propeller’s five-blade composite propeller with the Raptor™ lightweight hub. Both the engine and propeller system are linked to the TBM 960’s dual- channel digital Engine and Propeller Electronic Control System (EPECS). The EPECS optimizes powerplant performance from the engine’s startup to landing, while reducing pilot workload by integrating all functions and protecting the engine’s life. It also enables the aircraft to be flown with more precise settings: at Daher’s recommended cruise setting of 308 kts., the fuel consumption is only 57 U.S. gallons per hour – a 10 percent fuel economy for more sustainability when compared to the maximum cruise setting. The TBM 960 benefits from a full range of TBM e-copilot® functions: an icing protection system; flight envelope monitoring through the Electronic Stability and Protection (ESP) and the Under- speed Protection (USP) systems; the Emergency Descent Mode (EDM) function; as well as the HomeSafe™ emergency autoland system. Daher’s use of digital power for the TBM 960 extends into the aircraft’s Prestige cabin, featuring an all-new environmental control system. Other enhancements include improved cabin style and comfort with ergonomically-enhanced seats, LED ambience strip lighting in the overhead ceiling panel, and electronically-dimmable windows – all controlled by a Passenger Comfort Display (PCD). Along with the TBM aircraft family’s continued popularity among individual owners and business operators, it continues to prove itself in multi-mission applications. Building on the TBM’s application in military command/VIP transportation, flight test support and the airlift of time-sensitive cargo, it has now entered service as a “birddog” aircraft in support of wildfire air attack missions.

Paris Airshow, Le Bourget: Fargo Jet Center has announced the acquisition of two Beechcraft King Air 360 aircraft from Textron Aviation. The purchase was finalized at the Paris Air Show, with the agreement taking place at the Textron Aviation Special Missions booth. This milestone marks Fargo Jet Center’s first time exhibiting at the Paris Air Show, underscoring the company’s expanding global presence in the special missions aviation sector. The acquisition was a result of a collaborative agreement between key representatives from both organizations. “We are thrilled to secure these two King Air 360 aircraft, which are renowned for their reliability, versatility, and advanced avionics,” said Darren Hall, Vice President of Business Development, Fargo Jet Center. “These aircraft will enable us to provide mission-ready platforms to meet the needs of our global special missions customers.” The King Air 360 is celebrated for its enhanced cabin comfort, next-generation Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion avionics, and proven performance in demanding missions. Fargo Jet Center’s investment in these aircraft demonstrates its commitment to delivering industry-leading solutions and unparalleled customer support.

London, 8th June 2025: Ascend Airways, UK-based ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) and charter airline, has taken delivery of its 5th aircraft – Boeing 737-8 MAX. Part of Avia Solutions Group, the airline has also secured its Canadian Foreign Air Operator Certificate (FAOC), marking another significant milestone in its rapid expansion. The aircraft, registered as G-ULIT, received its Certificate of Airworthiness on June 3, 2025 and will be immediately deployed onto a long-term wet lease contract. This addition represents the fourth Boeing 737-8 MAX in Ascend Airways’ fleet. “I want to thank the entire team at Ascend Airways for their hard work and dedication in adding three aircraft over the past two months,” says Alastair Willson, CEO of Ascend Airways. “Our growing fleet positions us perfectly to meet the growing demand for reliable ACMI services in the UK and other markets with the newest generation of aircraft.” This has been a year of significant growth for Ascend Airways, which started 2025 with just two aircraft and now operates five. The airline plans to add further Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft over the coming months, with the goal of operating a total of eight aircraft by year-end. The Boeing 737-8 MAX aligns with Ascend Airways’ strategy of offering the latest technology and most fuel-efficient aircraft to customers. The MAX 8 reduces CO2 emissions by 20% and has a 40% lower noise footprint compared to previous-generation aircraft, enabling customers to reduce their environmental impact when adding capacity. In addition to fleet expansion, Ascend Airways has received its Canadian FAOC, which allows the airline to commence ACMI operations in Canada. The approval comes in time for the peak season of travel in Canada during the IATA Winter season of which Ascend Airways currently has availability on B737-8 MAX aircraft. Ascend Airways is also in the final stages of gaining it’s FAA 129 approvals which will allow the Airline to operate ACMI and Charter flights to the US and also in the process of gaining it’s IOSA approvals.

Wessling, 28 May 2025: Deutsche Aircraft has unveiled the first D328eco test aircraft (TAC 1) at their headquarters in the Airtech Campus in Oberpfaffenhofen, a transformative moment for sustainable regional aviation. Following the announcement of the initial fuselage cut at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024, the programme has maintained steady momentum as it drives progress towards a more efficient and environmentally conscious future for regional air travel. Building upon the proven legacy of the Dornier 328, the D328eco is an advanced evolution, not a clean-sheet aircraft. It delivers enhanced performance, fuel efficiency, an elevated customer experience and lower emissions, while retaining the versatility and reliability that airlines, operators and passengers have trusted for over three decades. The roll out of the test aircraft underscores Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to innovation, decarbonisation and regional connectivity. Engineering the Future of Regional Flight “The roll out of our first test aircraft marks a significant achievement in the D328eco programme and an important step towards our physical flight test activities,” announced Nico Neumann, Co-CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “This milestone represents our transition from conceptual design to practical testing and industrialisation. At Deutsche Aircraft, we are proud to introduce an aircraft with the proven DNA of the Dornier 328, enhanced for better efficiency, reduced emissions and a superior customer experience, making it an optimal choice for regional operators worldwide.” “This milestone is a testament to our team’s dedication and technical expertise,” added Olaf Lawrenz, COO of Deutsche Aircraft. “Building upon the robust foundation of the Dornier 328, an aircraft ahead of its time, we have integrated modern technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability. The roll out reflects our commitment to delivering a next-generation regional aircraft that combines proven reliability with cutting-edge advancements to meet the evolving demands of regional aviation.” Marie-Christine von Hahn, Chief Executive Officer of the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI), emphasised the significance of the roll out for the entire industry. “Innovations in the air improve our lives on the ground. Deutsche Aircraft is sending a strong signal on behalf of the entire industry: German aviation is a global leader.” A Next-Generation Regional Aircraft The D328eco is designed to set new standards in regional aviation, offering: Unmatched fuel efficiency with modernised aerodynamics and state-of-the-art propulsion systems. Optimised operational performance, capable of handling challenging runways, remote locations and extreme weather conditions. A future-ready platform, integrating next-generation avionics and cutting-edge manufacturing processes. A Clear Path to the Physical Test Campaign and Certification Following the roll out of the first test aircraft, Deutsche Aircraft is poised to start the test campaign, marking a significant step towards type certification and the aircraft’s subsequent entry into service in Q4 2027. The development of the D328eco is propelled by close collaboration with regulatory authorities, strategic industry partners and a highly skilled global supply chain. These partnerships ensure that the aircraft will adhere to the highest standards of performance, safety and sustainability. Redefining Regional Air Travel The D328eco is more than just an aircraft; it is a symbol of the aviation industry’s progress towards climate-conscious, fuel-efficient regional air travel. As Deutsche Aircraft continues to push the boundaries of sustainable aviation, the roll out cements its position as a leader in the next generation of regional flight. Celebrating with Key Stakeholders The roll out event was attended by over 500 guests, including key stakeholders from the Bavarian and Federal Government, industry partners, suppliers and representatives from regional, national and international media outlets. This significant turnout highlights the considerable support and interest in Deutsche Aircraft’s innovative approach to sustainable aviation.