Business Aviation

Business Aviation

FAI grows its charter fleet with the addition of its sixth Global Express

London, 20th January 2026: FAI rent‑a‑jet, Germany’s leading provider of mission‑critical aviation services, has bolstered its fleet with the addition of a Bombardier Global 6000 (MSN 9546). This latest acquisition marks FAI’s sixth Global Express and brings its total business jet fleet to 17. The aircraft will be available for corporate charter from mid‑February 2026. Originally configured for Malta‑based business aviation operator Vistajet, the Global 6000 was subsequently delivered to a corporate owner. It retains the signature Vistajet metallic-painted exterior livery and tasteful interior, with handmade cabinetry and hand-stitched cream leather seats. Featuring a large galley and spacious, three zone cabin, the aircraft can accommodate up to 14 passengers. With a non-stop range of 6,000 nautical miles, the Global 6000 is ideally suited for intercontinental travel. Its exceptionally low hours, only two corporate owners since new, and the fact that the aircraft has never been used for charter operations make it a particularly appealing choice for clients. FAI has operated Global Express aircraft since 2010. Its first Global, MSN 9102, carried the registration D‑AXTM – a registration that the newly acquired Global 6000 will assume following the sale of MSN 9102 in 2023. “We are thrilled to add this exceptional Global 6000 to our fleet which we believe will be popular with our charter clients. The acquisition was completed in just six weeks from contract signing, including an extensive Pre-Purchase Inspection at BAS in Singapore over the Christmas and New Year period. This further reinforces FAI’s reputation as a fast‑acting cash buyer,” said Siegfried Axtmann, FAI’s founder and chairman. In related news, in 2025 FAI’s five-strong Bombardier BD-700 Global Express fleet recorded more than 5,500 hours of airtime, achieving an impressive occupancy rate of 85%.

Business Aviation

Edése Doret Industrial to design interiors for three RoyalJet Airbus ACJ 320neo Aircraft

Abu Dhabi, 22 December 2025: EdéseDoret Industrial Design has announced that it has been awarded the design contract by RoyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-based global private jet operator, for the interiors of three (3) Airbus Corporate Jet ACJ320neo aircraft.This marks the third project collaboration between EDID and RoyalJet, underscoring a trusted partnership built on innovation, craftsmanship, and a shared commitment to excellence in private aviation. “We are honoured to continue our relationship with RoyalJet, one of the world’s premier luxury operator,” said EdéseDoret, Founder and President of EdéseDoret Industrial Design, Inc. “Our vision for these new ACJ320neo aircraft is to deliver an unparalleled elevated passenger experience that reflects the essence of Emirati identity of timeless, elegant, sophisticated modernity which is perfectly tailored to RoyalJet’s elite clientele.” “Our partnership with EdéseDoret Industrial Design reflects our shared values and commitment to delivering the highest standards of luxury, cultural nuance, and operational excellence,” said Husham Osman, Vice President Technical Services at RoyalJet. “These new A320neo aircraft will offer a bespoke interior experience that complements our fleet’s reputation for sophistication and performance.” “The ACJ320neo will enable Royal Jet Group to expand their product offering, surpassing the already sophisticated and discerning service experienced by our customers during their private aviation journey,” said Paul de Salis, Chief Executive of RoyalJet. “Our partnership with EdéseDoret Industrial Design fits perfectly with our core brand values of elevated sophistication and timeless elegance that we reflect across our fleet.” Royal Jet, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, operates one of the world’s most prestigious fleet of premium configured aircraft. The addition of three new ACJ320neo aircraft will expand its offerings and reinforce its reputation for providing world-class private aviation experiences.

Business Aviation

Gulfstream launches new super-midsize G300 aircraft

Savannah, 5th December 2025: Gulfstream Aerospace has announced the new Gulfstream G300 has made its first flight, demonstrating significant program maturity and officially launching its rigorous flight test program. Introduced on Sept. 30 in Savannah as the latest addition to Gulfstream’s visionary fleet, the G300 represents a new standard in its segment and is poised to redefine the super-midsize category. The first G300 took off from Ben Gurion International Airport at 8:05 a.m. local time and flew for 2 hours and 25 minutes at a speed of Mach 0.75 and an altitude of 30,000 feet/9,144 meters. “With its combination of safety, technology, performance and cabin comfort, the G300 is a game changer for the super-midsize category,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “This latest investment, designed to exceed our customers’ expectations for large-cabin features in a mid-cabin aircraft, brings another new category leader to our next-generation fleet. With the addition of the G300, Gulfstream truly offers an aircraft for every mission. Achieving first flight at this stage in the program is a remarkable achievement.” Prior to first flight, the G300 program completed more than 2,000 ground test hours and includes two additional test aircraft already in production.

Business Aviation

Daher strengthens its UAE presence for the defense and industrial services sectors

Dubai, 20th November 2025: At the 2025 Dubai Airshow, Daher announced the strengthening of the Group’s presence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with its creation of the Daher Middle East Aviation Consultancy – a subsidiary dedicated to industrial services. Based in Abu Dhabi, this subsidiary will deliver local support for programs across the UAE through on-site services, coordination with regional stakeholders, and alignment with operational requirements. The Daher Middle East Aviation Consultancy will deliver a range of industrial services focused on implementation – from on-site operational support and first-level technical assistance to industrial and logistical coordination. Its offering is modular and adaptable to the area’s requirements, with a focus on defense and civil aerospace programs which is aligned with the needs of operators in the UAE and the wider region. This entity serves as a designated in-region contact, leading to faster decision-making and guaranteeing greater visibility on a daily basis. Such proximity enhances Daher’s responsiveness, enabling milestones to be met and ensuring long-term support for programs. “With the new Daher Middle East Aviation Consultancy, we are establishing a local operational presence to support our programs in the United Arab Emirates,” stated Olivier Dhalenne, Daher’s Middle East General Manager. “Our priority is to offer reliable and responsive industrial services, directly supporting our partners.”

Business Aviation

Gogo announces Action Aviation as its first Gogo Galileo FDX customer in ME

Dubai, 17 November 2025: Gogo has announced at the Dubai Airshow that Action Aviation is equipping its Boeing Business Jet BBJ 737 with the Gogo Galileo FDX connectivity terminal. The deal, ratified at Dubai Airshow, confirms Action Aviation as the first Middle Eastern operator to sign for the larger of Gogo’s two fuselage-mount, electronically steered antenna (ESA) variants, and makes Action Aviation BBJ passengers the first in the region to experience the consistent, global connectivity powered by the Eutelsat OneWeb satellite constellation. The larger Gogo Galileo FDX is a full-duplex antenna with two arrays: one for data transmission and one for receiving, enabling high-speed, low-latency connectivity for the cabin. Optimized for large cabin aircraft the bandwidth seamlessly supports multiple passengers using multiple digital devices for extremely data-intensive operations. “We are extremely proud to confirm Action Aviation as our first FDX client in the region,” commented Dave Falberg, SVP Sales EMEA, APAC for Gogo. “We’re even more pleased that the long-time customer, formerly of Satcom Direct, and now as Gogo, has selected our Gogo Galileo ecosystem of product, software, and support services to deliver reliable connectivity to its passengers, wherever they fly.” Mark Butler, Chief Executive Officer of Action Aviation, commented, “When evaluating connectivity solutions, we wanted more than incremental improvement – we wanted a system that would redefine what global inflight connectivity can deliver. After extensive research and consultation, we selected Gogo Galileo FDX as the clear choice for achieving high-speed, reliable, and truly global broadband performance.” Gogo is exhibiting at Dubai Airshow 2025 for the first time since its acquisition of Satcom Direct, and from its booth 169, will showcase the full range of multi-orbit, multi-broadband satcom and ATG systems the merger of the two industry giants has created. (Top Pix : Gogo Galileo FDX terminal to be installed on Action Aviation BBJ 737)

Business Aviation

FAI completes sale of newly retrofitted Bombardier Challenger 604

Dubai, 8th Nov 2025: German Special Mission Operator FAI rent-a-jet GmbH, a member of FAI Aviation Group, has completed the sale of its newly retrofitted Bombardier Challenger 604. The aircraft, originally showcased on the static display at AERO Friedrichshafen 2025 in April, has been sold to a Middle East-based customer. Malta-based FliteWatch will offer the aircraft for commercial charter on behalf of the new owner. The retrofit project, which was undertaken by FAI’s MRO Division, FAI Technik in Nuremberg, took nearly 10,000 manhours to complete, is valued at circa US$4m and includes major inspections at 48/96/192 months. The aircraft features a brand-new, 12 passenger VIP interior which includes a four-person conference group seat layout and a four-person divan with four additional individual seats ensuring both a luxurious and convenient travel experience. All new soft furnishings in tasteful shades of grey, carbon fibre wood surfaces, stylish white marble countertops and stone floors in the galley and vanity area make for stylish finish. The luxury interior is complemented by ultra-high-speed Ku-Band connectivity and Apple TV, further elevating the in-flight experience. The exterior designer paint features a stunning new finish in silver grey metallic with one black stripe. Siegfried Axtmann, Founder and Chairman, FAI Aviation Group, said: “We are pleased to complete the sale of our retrofitted Bombardier Challenger 604. It was a highly demanding, stand out project where we transformed the pre-owned heavy jet into a state-of-the-art asset for its new owner. We are proud of the end result which further reinforces FAI Technik’s capabilities in complete interior retrofits.” Learjet to the Gold Coast In other news, FAI has leased one of its Learjet 60 Air Ambulance aircraft, (D-CITA) to Brisbane, Australia-based, private jet charter operator, AVCAIR on a 2-year Dry Lease contract. Global 6000 joining the fleet soon FAI is finalizing the acquisition of a Bombardier Global 6000, boosting its Global Express fleet to a total of six. This follows the decision to place one of its Global Express aircraft into a long-term ACMI Contract with a regular client in August. FAI anticipates that its Global Express fleet utilization will reach close to 6,000 hours of flight time this year.

Business Aviation

Textron Aviation appoints Dipti Dadhich as its Regional Sales Director for India

New Delhi, 31st October 2025: Textron Aviation has announced the appointment of Dipti Dadhich as Regional Sales Director for Textron Aviation in India, effective 25 October 2025. Dipti brings over 16 years of experience in the Indian aviation sector, with a strong track record of success supporting customers in both business and general aviation. Her deep market knowledge and customer-centric approach make her ideally positioned to lead our commercial strategy in India. In this role, Dipti will be responsible for driving Textron Aviation’s continued market leadership, working closely with aircraft owners, operators, and channel partners to deliver tailored aircraft solutions and world-class support services. Her appointment reflects our commitment to investing in local leadership and accelerating growth in one of Asia-Pacific’s most dynamic aviation markets. India remains a strategic priority for Textron Aviation, and Dipti’s leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our presence and delivering greater value to customers across the region.

Business Aviation

Ascend Airways Malaysia obtains full AOC and Air Service Permit

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.

Business Aviation

Thai SmartLynx secures AOC, becomes Thailand’s first ACMI airline

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.

Business Aviation

Gulfstream fleet surpasses 3 mn nautical miles flown on SAF

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.

FOREWORD

Dear Readers,

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

Happy Reading!

 

The Editorial Team

 

Aviation World

NEWSLETTER

Aviation World Magazine is India’s premier aviation magazine and has been actively supporting the development of the Indian and global civil aviation sector. We started our journey in year 2015 and its been 12 years now and the response and acceptance is really encouraging. Thanks to all our associates and writers who remained with us in our progressive journey.

We have started 2026 on a very positive note and we look forward to increase our footprints to more locations and induct many more new companies in our campaign.. Do write to us at : editor@aviationworld.in

Disclaimer

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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