Civil Aviation

Civil Aviation

Riyadh Air to inaugurate London Flights from October 26th onwards

Riyadh,October 8, 2025: Riyadh Air has announced its 2025 debut with the commencement of its first daily flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) on October 26th. Riyadh Air has also unveiled its loyalty offering, which will provide exclusive benefits to its early Founding Members through “The Founders” and showcase the future direction for dynamic loyalty programs. Operational Excellence: Beginning October 26th, Riyadh Air will commence daily launch flights from Riyadh to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) aboard its designated Boeing 787-9 technical spare aircraft, “Jamila”. These carefully sequenced flights, initially on sale to select groups and Riyadh Air employees, are a critical phase in ensuring unparalleled operational readiness ahead of receiving the first aircraft deliveries from Boeing, while utilizing Riyadh Air’s recently awarded slot at London Heathrow (LHR). Flights will depart Riyadh at 0315 (RX401) with an early morning arrival time into London Heathrow at 0730, the return flights depart London at 0930 (RX402), arriving back to Riyadh at 1915 (all times local). This important phase of Pathway to Perfect will see flights to Dubai added soon after, transparently demonstrating Riyadh Air’s rigorous commitment to operational excellence. Through a thorough assessment program of these initial launch flights on Jamila, the airline is building operational strength for a smooth, reliable, and world-class premium travel experience, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s dedication to the highest standards of quality. Further exciting new routes are set to be announced in the coming weeks for winter 2025 and summer 2026. “This isn’t just a launch; it’s a tangible realization of a vision to connect Saudi Arabia to the world, a core pillar of Saudi Vision 2030,” stated Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. “Our commitment to begin operations in 2025 is being fulfilled. This rigorous flight program on Jamila allows us to fine-tune every detail, ensuring a seamless, reliable, and world-class experience. This carefully sequenced approach is our pathway to perfect, and we are now incredibly close to full operations with further destinations to be announced in the coming weeks as our new aircraft are delivered.” Sfeer: The Future of Loyalty, Designed for a Generation in Motion Sfeer, meaning “Ambassador” in Arabic and blended with the English word “sphere”, embodies the vibrant, generous spirit of Saudi Arabia. As it rolls out, Sfeer is set to become one of the world’s most unique and exciting loyalty programs, seamlessly combining community engagement with gamified experiences, all while unlocking the very best of Saudi. Uniquely, Sfeer members will be able to share level points within their community, plus many other membership benefits that will enhance the experience of their friends and family.

Civil Aviation

TezJet appoints Aeroprime Group as its GSA in India

New Delhi, 6th October 2025: TezJet Airlines, based out of Kyrgyzstan, has appointed Aeroprime Group as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in India for both passenger and cargo services. With this strategic collaboration, TezJet is set to establish its presence in the Indian market and strengthen connectivity between India and Kyrgyzstan. TezJet will be launching direct flights from Delhi to Bishkek starting December 2025,offering passengers enhanced travel convenience and businesses efficient cargo solutions.The new direct flights are set to strengthen the connectivity between India and Kyrgyzstan, two countries that share deep cultural, historical, and economic linkages. Arun Kumar, President & CEO of TezJet, said,” India is one of the most dynamic and growing markets in Asia, and we are delighted to partner with Aeroprime Group to represent us here. With their strong expertise in aviation sales and marketing, we are confident in building a successful presence in India.” Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director & CEO of Aeroprime Group, added,”We are proud to be appointed as the GSA for TezJet in India. This collaboration will open up new travel opportunities for Indian passengers and provide businesses with seamless cargo connectivity to Kyrgyzstan and beyond.”

Civil Aviation

Centrum Air’s launches direct flight between Delhi–Tashkent

New Delhi,3rd October 2025: Centrum Air, Uzbekistan’s largest private airline, today commenced its direct passenger flights between Delhi (DEL) and Tashkent (TAS), further strengthening connectivity and opening new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Uzbekistan. The service will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Fridays, offering travelers affordable fares, convenient schedules, and a comfortable journey onboard Centrum Air’s modern fleet. The inaugural flight ceremony was held at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DIAL) in association with GMR, customs authorities, and senior airport officials. Adil Mirza, Centrum Air, said,“Today marks a proud moment for Centrum Air as we see our Delhi–Tashkent service take flight. India has always been a priority market for us. With this launch, we are not just adding a route — we are building a bridge that connects cultures, businesses, and people. We are confident that this direct link will inspire more travelers from India to experience Uzbekistan’s hospitality and heritage.” Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director & CEO of Aeroprime Group, added,”The inaugural Delhi–Tashkent flight reflects the strength of our partnership with Centrum Air. As Centrum Air’s Exclusive GSA in India, we are proud to support this service and ensure its success. This is more than a new route — it’s an opportunity to strengthen ties and bring the people of India and Uzbekistan closer together.” Centrum was officially launched in Jan 2023 and has 13 aircraft till date operating into 35 destinations, with plans to expand its fleet size up to 22 aircraft by end of 2026. The current fleet of Centrum includes Airbus A320 & A321 neo,with further plans to upgrade with A330 & A320 neo aircraft types. The GSA for Centrum Air is Aeroprime Group.

Civil Aviation

Maldivian Appoints AVIAREPS as GSA for South India

New Delhi,October 1st, 2025: Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has appointed AVIAREPS India as its official General Sales Agent (GSA) for South India, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian market and strengthening trade partnerships in a region that serves as a major gateway to the Maldives. Until August 2025, the Maldives welcomed 85,306 Indian visitors, a 4.7% increase year-on-year. India now ranks 6th among source markets with a 5.7% share of total arrivals, reaffirming its strategic significance. With projections indicating a further 20% growth in 2025, Maldivian is poised to capture a larger share of the outbound segment, particularly from South India where proximity and connectivity make the Maldives one of the most convenient international getaways. According to the airline’s 2025 schedule, Maldivian has been operating: • Kochi–Malé (COK–MLE): 4 weekly services on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. • Trivandrum–Malé (TRV–MLE): 4 weekly services on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays With this schedule, Maldivian ensures convenient departures and arrivals for Indian travellers, while also offering seamless domestic inter-island connections—the largest in the Maldives—allowing visitors to access luxury resorts, adventure hubs, cultural experiences, and wellness retreats across the archipelago. “We are greatly encouraged by the growing interest from the Indian market, and the event in South India further reaffirmed the importance of this region for us,” said Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Maldivian. “With the support of AVIAREPS, we look forward to building stronger trade partnerships and welcoming even more Indian travellers to experience the Maldives and its diverse offerings.” Marcelo Kaiser, COO Aviation at AVIAREPS: “We are proud to partner with Maldivian as their General Sales Agent in South India, one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets in the region. India is not only a key source market for the Maldives but also one with immense potential for sustained growth. With our strong local expertise and deep trade relationships, AVIAREPS will ensure Maldivian strengthens its visibility, expands its reach, and provides Indian travelers with seamless access to the Maldives.”

Civil Aviation

Air India inaugurates non-stop flight to the Philippines

Gurugram, 01 OCTOBER 2025: Air India inaugurated India’s first non-stop flight to the Philippines. The inaugural flight to Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, departed from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport per schedule. H.E. Josel F. Ignacio, Ambassador of the Philippines to India, and Maria Cynthia P. Pelayo, Minister and Consul General, Embassy of the Philippines in India, joined P. Balaji, Group Head – Government, Risk, Compliance & Corporate Affairs, Air India, and other senior officials from the Embassy and Air India at Delhi airport for the inauguration of Air India’s new services to Manila. With the launch of services to Manila, Air India further strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia, now operating to eight destinations across seven countries in the region. In addition to providing non-stop connectivity to an increasing number of travellers between India and the Philippines, the new flights also open new connections for Filipino travellers to access Air India’s robust network across Europe and North America via Delhi. Air India’s flights between Delhi and Manila are operated by the airline’s Airbus A321LR aircraft, featuring a three-class cabin configuration to offer a choice of Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class to travellers. Air India is one of the few airlines in Southeast Asia to offer fully flat beds in Business Class in the single-aisle A321 aircraft. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said: “The launch of non-stop flights to Manila unlocks the immense potential for tourism to the Philippines, as Indian travellers, with their growing appetite for leisure travel and increasing spending power, seek new and exciting destinations. These new services will help showcase the Philippines’ vibrant culture and stunning landscapes to many Indian travellers, while also fostering greater trade and cultural exchange, strengthening the bonds between the two nations.”

Civil Aviation

Akasa Air commences flights connecting Bengaluru and Phuket

Bengaluru,01 October 2025: Akasa Air has commenced daily direct flights connecting Bengaluru and Phuket, strengthening its footprint in Thailand. The inaugural flight on 01st October 2025 departed Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru at 0625 hrs IST arriving at Phuket International Airport at 1240hrs ICT. The route complements Akasa Air’s daily Mumbai–Phuket service inaugurated in September 2025, underscoring the airline’s commitment to expanding its presence in high-demand international destinations. In an event held at Kempegowda International Airport to flag off the maiden flight, a ceremonial lamp was lit in the presence of Anand Srinivasan, Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer, Akasa Air. The event was also graced by the leadership of Kempegowda International Airport, and a special boarding pass was presented to the first passenger on the inaugural flight. The daily non-stop flights from Bengaluru are scheduled at convenient timings, making travel seamless and well-suited for both business and leisure travellers. With Thailand’s visa-free entry for Indian passport holders, passengers can enjoy a simplified, hassle-free travel experience that further enhances accessibility to this popular destination.

Civil Aviation

Akkodis and Deutsche Aircraft signs strategic agreement

Webling, 30 September, 2025: Akkodis and Deutsche Aircraft have signed a strategic agreement to significantly advance the development and production of innovative regional aircraft in Germany, with a focus on technological excellence and strengthening the local aerospace ecosystem. Under the agreement, Akkodis will become a first-tier supplier, playing a central role in Deutsche Aircraft’s supply chain. As a global digital engineering consulting company, Akkodis brings expertise in aircraft system development and specialised engineering to support Deutsche Aircraft in achieving its key programme milestones. The company will manage the entire development process – from defining requirements and integrating complex systems, and testing on the ground and in flight, right through to final certification of the new aircraft. In addition, its Aerospace & Defence division contributes capabilities in digital modelling and simulation, advanced materials and preparations for alternative propulsion systems such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and hydrogen. Over the years, Akkodis has proven to be a reliable partner through its technological competence, proactive solutions and ability to mobilise global resources. Akkodis will leverage digital development methods that enable faster, more efficient and lower-emission aircraft development. “This agreement reinforces our diversification strategy and strengthens our role in the aerospace industry,” says Dr. Peter Mehrle, CEO of Akkodis Germany. “Together with Deutsche Aircraft, we are demonstrating Europe’s industrial capability and innovative power. By combining their expertise with our digital engineering know-how, we are driving regional aircraft development that is made in Germany and positioning Europe as a leader in sustainable aviation.” “For us, this cooperation is about translating engineering expertise into real progress,” explains Reiner Oldewurtel, Vice President Akkodis Germany AS&D GmbH. “Through close collaboration with Deutsche Aircraft, we are contributing to faster system integration, more efficient testing and smoother certification – always guided by quality, passion and forward thinking.” “The partnership with Akkodis is a significant step in our mission to develop the next generation of regional aircraft. We are committed to digital excellence and emission-reducing technologies to actively shape the future of aviation from Germany, for Europe and beyond,” emphasises Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. Both companies view the partnership as a long-term commitment that goes beyond traditional project collaboration, driven by a shared ambition to make regional aircraft more efficient, lower-emission and future-ready from a European base.

Civil Aviation

Air India group unveils its plans for Navi Mumbai International Airport

Delhi, 23rd Sept. 2025: The Air India group has announced its plans to commence commercial flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport(NMIA) starting from the airport’s first phase of operations.This airport is operated by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. In the initial phase,Air India Express, will operate 20 daily departures or 40 Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) from and to NMIA, connecting 15 Indian cities. The Air India group intends to scale up to 55 daily departures (110 ATMs) by mid-2026, including up to 5 daily international flights from NMIA. By Winter 2026, Air India group aims to further expand its operations to 60 daily departures (120 ATMs) from NMI, seamlessly connecting passengers to key domestic and international destinations. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said: “We look forward to commencing operations at Navi Mumbai International Airport, as Mumbai joins the league of world cities with more than one airport. We are happy to work with Adani Airports to build NMIA not only as a point that connects to the rest of India, but also as one of the country’s key global transit hubs for both – passengers and cargo – given its strategic geographical location. At the Air India group, we are proud to lead the charge in connecting the West to the East and beyond via India, and our expansion at NMIA will support India’s growth as a global aviation hub.” Arun Bansal, Chief Executive Officer, Adani Airport Holdings Ltd., said: “We are delighted to welcome Air India Group to Navi Mumbai International Airport as one of our valued airline partners. Their ambitious expansion plans and global vision are perfectly aligned with our aim of making NMIA a benchmark in global aviation. This partnership will redefine Mumbai’s connectivity landscape and strengthen India’s twin-airport strategy, NMIA’s adoption of technology for enhancing efficiency and best in class experience for passengers will play a pivotal role in delivering seamless and superior passenger journeys for decades to come.” Air India Express’ planned operations at NMIA will significantly boost connectivity to and from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) to destinations across and outside India, while fostering seamless international transits through NMIA. Navi Mumbai International Airport is being built in five phases, with the launch phase expected to accommodate 20 million passengers per annum (MPPA) and handle 0.5 million metric tons (MMT) of cargo. Upon full completion, NMIA will have the capacity to serve 90 MPPA and handle 3.2 MMT of cargo annually.

Civil Aviation

Air India Express gets IATA Membership

Delhi, 17th September 2025: Air India Express has announced its membership with International Air Transport Association (IATA).IATA represents some 350 airlines from more than 120 countries, accounting for over 80% of global air traffic. A condition for IATA membership is the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), which is the global industry standard for airline operational safety auditing. Airlines have to comply with over 900 standards in order toachieve their IOSA registration. ”We welcome Air India Express into the IATA family. Air India Express has been on the IOSA registry since 2017, and we are glad that they have taken the next step to become an IATA member. Having Air India Express as a member broadens the perspectives that we can bring to the global issues affecting our industry,” said SheldonHee, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific. Commenting on the membership, Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express, said: “Becoming a part of the IATA family is a proud moment for us. It highlights our commitment to enhance our global standing, assuring our guests of world-class standards, and facilitates access to global partnerships. As we continue to grow our footprint, IATA membership is an additional step taken by Air India Express to ensure that every journey is supported by the highest standards of reliability, safety, and convenience.”

Civil Aviation

FLY91 waives convenience fee for all bookings made in September

Panaji, 15th September 2025: Goa based Indian regional airline, FLY91 has announced the waiver of convenience fees on all bookings made through its official website during the month of September. The offer comes with no restrictions on travel dates, giving customers complete flexibility to plan their journeys while saving on additional charges. The initiative, valid until September 30, 2025, is part of FLY91’s effort to make air travel more accessible and affordable for customers across its growing network of tier two and tier three destinations as we move into the festive season. By removing the convenience fee, the airline is extending direct savings to its passengers, reaffirming its commitment to customer-friendly and transparent pricing. “By doing away with the convenience fee this month we are offering our customers genuine savings and a more transparent booking experience,” said Manoj Chacko, managing director and CEO of FLY91.

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

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