Recent News

Recent News

Akasa Air Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer Praveen Iyer resigns

Mumbai,12th February, 2026: Akasa Air Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer Praveen Iyer has announced his exist from the airlines citing reasons to begin the next chapter of his life. Praveen will partner closely with the leadership team to ensure a smooth and structured transition through April 30, 2026. Commenting on the transition, Vinay Dube, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Akasa Air, said “Praveen has been instrumental in shaping not just Akasa’s commercial vision but the airline itself and translating that ambition into sustained growth. He has built a strong and resilient commercial organisation, nurtured future leaders, and established partnerships and frameworks that continue to support our network expansion and revenue strategy. We are grateful for his leadership, clarity of thought, and long-term perspective during the formative years of the airline. I am deeply grateful to Praveen for his counsel and invaluable contribution in building Akasa and I wish him and his family the very best.” Akasa Air announced that Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer Anand Srinivasan will take on the role of Chief Commercial Officer.Anand has over 25 years of experience in India and international markets across commercial and aviation technology. Speaking on his new role, Anand Srinivasan said “Akasa has been built with a clear purpose, strong fundamentals, and an exceptional team. I look forward to building on the solid commercial foundation already in place, working closely with our teams and partners to deliver sustained growth, stronger customer value, and long term competitiveness as we scale. I am proud of the industry first tech solutions we have built since our inception, and I am excited for what lays ahead.” Reflecting on his journey, Praveen Iyer said, “Building Akasa Air has been a defining journey and a deeply fulfilling experience. It has been a privilege to be part of an exceptional team, and I am proud of the achievements we have made in such a short span of time. I am confident the airline is well-positioned for its next phase of growth and wish the leadership and employees continued success.” As Anand takes over his new role, the IT function will report to Akasa Air’s Chief Financial Officer, Ankur Goel.

Recent News

Alton Aviation Consultancy registers another year of record growth in 2025

New York, 12th February, 2026: Alton Aviation Consultancy, global aviation advisory firm, reported another year of growth in 2025 as demand for premium aviation advisory services remained strong.Continued growth in Alton’s advisory work increased across virtually all segments of the aviation value chain to include aircraft leasing and financing advisory, airline due diligence, restructuring, and fleet campaigns, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) advisory, in addition to supporting airports and business and general aviation (BGA) sectors. Across all sectors, merger and acquisition (M&A) transaction advisory activity remained robust. In 2025, the firm successfully completed more than 200 engagements for over 100 organizations, with approximately two-thirds coming from repeat clients. This further underscores the value delivered through Alton’s deep domain expertise, and the firm’s high degree of client responsiveness and commitment to excellence. Alton extended its global footprint with the addition of its London office, strengthening its ability to support clients in the UK and Europe with regional insight across major aviation markets. The new entity builds on Alton’s established global platform which includes New York, Dublin, Dubai, Hong Kong, Beijing, Singapore, and Tokyo. The firm also had a strong year for talent development, with 16 employee promotions across its global team. In addition, Alton continued to support global and local communities through its commitment to the Pledge 1% movement for corporate impact, electing to donate 1% of annual revenue to charity and dedicating 1% of employee time to volunteer work. In 2025, Alton’s lifetime charitable contributions exceeded the $1 million mark. John Mowry, Managing Director, Alton Aviation Consultancy, says: “Our strong performance in 2025 was underpinned by the experience of our team and demonstrates the value of combining deep aviation expertise with practical, execution-focused advice. As market dynamics shift, investing in our people remains central to how we deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes for clients.” Adam Cowburn, Managing Director, Alton Aviation Consultancy, adds: “In 2026, we expect continued opportunities for M&A transactions, supported by improving market fundamentals, although supply chain challenges and broader macroeconomic factors will remain important considerations for industry stakeholders. Alton is well positioned to support clients as they evaluate complex opportunities and navigate an evolving market.”

Recent News

Akasa Air adds 33rd aircraft, marking second fleet addition since January 2026

Delhi,4th February 2026: Akasa Air received its 33rd aircraft, marking its second aircraft induction since January 2026, and reinforcing the airline’s consistent growth trajectory. Operated by an all-women pilot crew, Captain Svetlana Pereira and First Officer Karen Noronha, the first leg of the delivery flight commenced from Seattle, USA, to Keflavik, Iceland, and concluded with the final leg from Larnaca, Cyprus to Bengaluru, India. Bearing registration number VT-YBM, the Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 aircraft arrived at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru on 4th February 2026. Built to Akasa Air’s purpose-built specifications and equipped with Safran Z200 seats, the newly inducted aircraft reflects the airline’s continued focus on uniformity, passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and sustainability across its growing fleet. The next-generation seating brings enhanced comfort through improved recline, ergonomic back support, plush cushioning, and integrated USB-C and USB-A charging ports, offering a more relaxed and connected flying experience for modern travellers.

Recent News

Tigerair Taiwan orders four Airbus A321neo

Singapore,9th February 2026: Tigerair Taiwan has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for four A321neo aircraft, marking the airline’s first order for this type. The new aircraft will support the airline’s network expansion while delivering improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to previous generation aircraft. The low-cost carrier which currently operates a fleet of 17 A320 Family aircraft, including nine A320ceo and eight A320neo, will benefit from greater commonality across the A320 Family, reducing training, maintenance and operating costs. “The purchase of A321neo aircraft is a cornerstone of our ‘third-generation’ fleet expansion, designed to maximise operational efficiency as we scale for regional dominance,” said Chairperson Joyce Huang of Tigerair Taiwan. “Configured with 232 seats, the A321neo allows us to increase capacity on our high-demand ‘golden routes’ and accelerate network expansion. By serving more passengers across more destinations with a lower cost per seat, this investment reinforces our position as Taiwan’s leading LCC. Furthermore, it advances our journey toward a younger, more fuel-efficient fleet that meets both our commercial and ESG targets.” “We are pleased to see Tigerair Taiwan reaffirm its confidence in Airbus as it takes another step in its fleet growth. The addition of the A321neo will complement its existing A320 fleet,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of Commercial Aircraft business. “The A321neo is the ideal platform for Tigerair Taiwan to capture growing demand while maintaining its commitment to cost-effective operations.”

Recent News

Redbird Flight Training Academy training aircraft makes forced landing near Belgavi Airport

Belgavi, 9th February 2026: In an incident, Redbird Flight Training Academy having Cessna 172 aircraft, VT-EUC while operating a cross country flight on sector “Kalaburagi to Belagavi” was involved in forced landing in an open field near Vijayapura today due to suspected fuel starvation experienced by the aircraft. The site of forced landing is 50 to 70 km. from Belagavi Airport. There were 02 persons on board i.e., a Flight Instructor and a trainee pilot. Both the occupants of the aircraft are safe. Due to impact aircraft is damaged. 1. Organisation Information: M/s Redbird Flight Training Academy is a DGCA approved Flying Training Organization (FTO), Approval No.01/2020, Initial FTO approval was issued on 23/07/2020 The FTO was last renewed on 23/07/2025 and is valid till 22/07/2030 No of aircraft in the fleet: 48 aircraft. 2. Aircraft detail as on 08/02/2026: Year of manufacture: 1975 C of R issued on : 23/05/2023 (With Red Bird FTO). C of A- issued on : 20/09/2023 ARC issued on : 01/08/2025 valid up to 03/08/2026 Time Since New (TSN) : 17512:40 3. Engine Details Engine Type: LYCOMING O320-E2D Engine hrs: 802:10 HRS 4. Crew Information PIC (Flight Instructor) : CPL holder Last Medical done on : 18.03.2025 (Valid till 19.03.2026) Hours Flown : 734 hours Last IR/Proficiency check : 25.07.2025 DGCA/AAIB will further investigate the incident.

Recent News

Air India unveils first Maharaja Lounge at Delhi International Airport

New Delhi, 6th February 2026: Air India unveils its first flagship lounge ‘The Maharaja Lounge’, at Terminal 3 of IGI Airport in New Delhi. The Maharaja Lounge, made to the new branding and design philosophy of Air India, strikes a fine balance between heritage-inspired ambience and modern luxury. This lounge is the first among other such modern lounges that the airline plans to launch at airports around India and the world, as it elevates its customer experience. The lounge will be progressively opened to guests travelling in Business and First Class, Gold and Platinum Maharaja Club and eligible Star Alliance members starting 16 February 2026.The lounge is conceptualised by global design studio Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA). The key spaces in the lounge include: : The Aviator’s Bar : The Globetrotter’s Study : Serenity Area : Crystal Bar : Tarmac view : Sleep Suites

Recent News

Record-breaking trade attendance at Singapore Airshow 2026

Singapore,6th Feb 2026: Singapore Airshow 2026 concludes its trade days on 6 February 2026, having welcomed over 65,000 trade attendees from 130 countries during its landmark 10th edition. The record attendance reinforces Singapore’s position as the epicentre for aerospace and defence convergence in Asia-Pacific. Across the trade days, Singapore Airshow was the definitive platform for significant strategic transactions, including GE Aerospace’s announcement of a US$300 million investment and multiple memoranda of understanding signed between Singapore’s Economic Development Board and global aerospace leaders. Beyond transactions, the concentration of decision-makers at Singapore Airshow – from OEMs and defence primes to government officials and airline executives – indicates the platform’s evolution from regional showcase to where strategic partnerships are actually forged. With 65,000 trade attendees from more than 130 countries and regions, over 1,100 participating companies and approximately 1,300 delegate meetings conducted, the strong turnout underscores the Asia-Pacific region’s growing influence in shaping the future of aviation and defence, while celebrating two decades of Singapore Airshow’s role as a key platform for industry leaders, government officials and military delegations to convene, exchange ideas and forge strategic partnerships within the global aerospace ecosystem. Reflecting sustained confidence in the Singapore Airshow, close to 95 per cent of participating companies have also indicated their interest in returning for the 2028 edition. “Achieving record trade attendance at our 10th edition reflects the strength and resilience of the aerospace and defence sector,” said Mr Leck Chet Lam, Managing Director of Experia Events, organiser of Singapore Airshow. “This edition not only marks a major milestone for Singapore Airshow but also highlights the sector’s vitality, with our trade visitors engaging in dynamic discussions, sharing insights and exploring new collaborations across aviation and defence.” Where Innovation Meets Impact: Driving Real Business Outcomes Singapore Airshow 2026 delivered what sets it apart from other global aerospace events: a proven track record of translating connections into concrete commitments. Across four intensive trade days, the event didn’t just showcase breakthrough technologies, it catalysed millions in strategic investments and forged partnerships that will shape the sector’s trajectory for years to come. The numbers tell the story of Singapore Airshow’s unique position as Asia-Pacific’s deal-making powerhouse. GE Aerospace’s US$300 million commitment to expand engine repair capabilities in Singapore through 2029 exemplifies the scale of transactions facilitated at the event. Multiple memoranda of understanding signed between Singapore’s Economic Development Board and global aerospace leaders will expand MRO capabilities, establish technology centres of excellence and advance next-generation R&D initiatives, demonstrating how Singapore Airshow serves as the catalyst where Asia-Pacific’s strategic aerospace ambitions take tangible form. Beyond transactions, Singapore Airshow’s strength lies in its ability to convene the decision-makers who matter. Industry leaders leveraged the platform not merely to display solutions, but to announce market-shaping partnerships. ST Engineering’s unveiling of their advanced unmanned systems and ground vehicles, coupled with strategic alliances with Shield AI and Airbus Defence and Space, underscores why Asia-Pacific’s aerospace community views Singapore Airshow as the definitive venue where regional innovation meets global collaboration and where announcements carry weight that resonates across the industry. Industry Voices Shaping the Next Era of Aviation AeroForum, Singapore Airshow’s dedicated thought-leadership platform, delivered its strongest edition yet with three days of high-level dialogue that will shape industry priorities well beyond 2026. Featuring more than 50 speakers across 15 strategic sessions, the programme drew close to 1,000 delegates and set the stage for conversations that will shape industry priorities well beyond 2026. Organised in collaboration with Alton Aviation Consultancy, Aviation Week Network, Bloomberg, FlightGlobal and NexAvian, the programme deep dived into cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, sustainable aviation, advanced air mobility, outlook of the civil aviation market and regional and global defence trends. Singapore Airshow expanded AeroCampus to its largest scale yet, hosting 23 exhibitors across commercial, government and education sectors. This year marked a milestone with the first-time participation of overseas aviation training institutions and engaged 2,500 students with opportunities in aerospace and aviation. Two Decades of Aviation Through the Lens Celebrating this milestone, Singapore Airshow also unveiled AeroLens, a photography showcase highlighting the defining moments, memories and milestones of the past two decades. Featuring works from contributors including MAphotoSG and Plane’s Portrait Aviation Media, AeroLens presents a curated collection capturing the power, precision and emotion of flight – inviting visitors to reflect and immerse themselves in the sights that have been defining aviation over each enduring edition. Welcoming the Public: Weekend@Airshow Following the trade days, Singapore Airshow will open its doors to the public on 7 – 8 February 2026 for Weekend@Airshow offering aerial displays, static aircraft exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages. Visitors can meet mascots Captain Leo and Leonette, participate in aviation-themed activities and explore exhibits highlighting innovation across the aerospace sector. The crowd-favourite flying displays will return with two performances each day at 11:00am and 3:30pm There will be autograph signing sessions scheduled on 7 and 8 February with pilots flying in the aerial display program. Timings are subject to change; visitors are advised to check the Singapore Airshow website for updates. (News published unedited on the basis of PR)

Recent News

CAE introduces Asia-Pacific’s first Boeing 777X FFS at the Singapore-CAE Flight Training centre

Singapore, February 4, 2025: Global aviation training leader CAE announced the deployment of the first Boeing 777X 7000XR full-flight simulator (FFS) in the Asia-Pacific region at the Singapore-CAE Flight Training (SCFT) centre. This milestone reinforces CAE’s commitment to supporting operators across the region with advanced training capabilities. The new simulator is currently being installed at the training centre and will be ready for training later this Fall, following local authorities qualification. This addition strengthens CAE’s global training network and ensures that operators in the region have access to cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance safety and operational excellence. “The B777X is the latest widebody aircraft developed in the market and is central to many airlines’ long-haul strategies, particularly in Asia and the Middle East,” said Alexandre Prévost, President, Civil Aviation at CAE. “With this simulator in Singapore, we are providing the training infrastructure where it is needed most, at the crossroads of Asia-Pacific aviation. This will allow airlines to train their B777X pilots within their region.” With SCFT’s deployment, we are giving airlines access to advanced training capabilities and ensuring capacity as the fleet prepares for entry into service. “Being the first training provider of B777X in Asia Pacific is a landmark for SCFT and for Singapore as an aviation hub. This simulator gives airlines in the region a practical option to train their pilots closer to home, at a time when fleet renewal and growth are driving demand for widebody training. In addition, the B777X gives the Singapore-CAE Flight Training centre one of the most comprehensive Boeing training portfolios in the region,” added Prévost. The new B777X 7000XR FFS is equipped with CAE’s latest ultra-realistic 3D visual system using gaming technology, the CAE Prodigy Image Generator (IG). CAE Prodigy elevates training standards with photorealistic renderings in all weather conditions and enhanced moving models resulting in a more immersive environment. The technology, with high-quality graphics such as those found in video games, improves visual simulation fidelity, making training not only more realistic but also more effective.

Recent News

Cebu Pacific and CAE announces training services agreement extension

Singapore, February 3, 2026: Cebu Pacific and CAE has announced at the Singapore Airshow that they have extended their longstanding Training Service Agreements (TSA) covering pilot training on the Airbus A320 and ATR 72-600 platforms. Training for A320 pilots has been extended until 2037, strengthening Cebu Pacific’s long‑term access to industry-leading pilot training. ATR 72‑600 pilot training has also been extended, ensuring continued support for the airline’s turboprop operations. “The renewal of these agreements reflects the strength of our partnership with Cebu Pacific,” said Alexandre Prévost, President, Civil Aviation at CAE. “We are proud to support Cebu Pacific’s expanding operations and to extend our partnership by delivering high‑fidelity training solutions that prepare their pilots for safe and successful careers.” “Extending our training services agreements with CAE underscores Cebu Pacific’s commitment to safety, operational excellence, and long-term growth,” said Javier Massot, Chief Operating Officer of Cebu Pacific. “As we continue to expand our fleet and network, it is critical that we invest in world-class pilot training to support a strong and sustainable pipeline of aviation professionals. Our longstanding partnership with CAE ensures our pilots are equipped with the highest standards of training as we scale our operations across the region.” According to the 2025 CAE Aviation Talent Forecast, the Asia-Pacific region will require approximately 98,000 new commercial pilots over the next decade to support fleet growth and replace retiring crew. As one of the region’s fastest-growing airlines, Cebu Pacific is preparing for this increased demand, and the renewal of these training services agreements ensures long-term access to high-quality training solutions that support its expanding pilot pipeline. Cebu Pacific and CAE have been partners in aviation training for more than a decade. Since establishing their joint training centre in Clark in 2011, the two organizations have worked together to deliver world‑class training, support fleet expansion and contribute to the development of aviation professionals in the Philippines and across the Asia‑Pacific region.

Events, Recent News

GOL Linhas Aéreas announced as official carrier for Routes Americas 2026

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 27th January 2026: GOL Linhas Aéreas, a member of Abra Group – the leading air transportation group across Latin America -, has been named the Official Carrier for Routes Americas, the leading air service development event for the region. Routes Americas unites airlines, airports and the destinations they serve to define future air connectivity across the continent and beyond. The 2026 edition of the event will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 3-5 March. With a simple and efficient business model, GOL connects people, businesses, and destinations with consistency, punctuality, and smart solutions throughout the journey. From Rio de Janeiro, the airline offers flights to 26 destinations across Brazil, including cities such as São Paulo, Brasília, Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza, and Porto Alegre. International services from Rio connect the airline to markets across South America, including 5 destinations across Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, reinforcing the city’s role as a key hub in GOL’s network and supporting its international expansion. GOL CEO Celso Ferrer will participate in a keynote interview at Routes Americas, outlining the airline’s post-restructuring strategy and outlook for Latin American aviation. He will address cost discipline, market saturation and a more measured approach to growth. The conference programme will also feature senior airline executives and industry leaders, including ACI LAC’s Industry Affairs Director, Francisco Medela Alonso, and ALTA’s CEO and IATA’s Regional Vice President, Peter Cerda. Brazil saw a historic high of 9.3 million foreign tourists in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 37%. According to a study conducted by the World Travel and Tourism Council, international visitor spend in Brazil is expected to exceed US$198 billion by 2035, cementing Travel & Tourism as one of the country’s most dynamic and high-potential economic sectors. Steven Small, Director of Routes, said: “As a long-standing supporter of Routes events, we are delighted that GOL will be the Official Carrier for the upcoming Routes Americas. GOL’s extensive network and their commitment to innovation in aviation makes them a perfect partner for this year’s event.” “Being named the Official Carrier of Routes Americas 2026 reinforces GOL’s role in strengthening air connectivity across Brazil and the Americas. Hosting this event in Rio de Janeiro highlights the city’s importance as one of GOL’s main hubs and a strategic gateway for our network, as well as providing an important platform to discuss sustainable, disciplined growth for aviation in the region.”, commented Celso Ferrer, CEO of GOL. “Hosting Routes Americas 2026 is a unique opportunity to showcase the destination Rio de Janeiro and Brazil to airline delegates and decision-makers from around the world. Rio de Janeiro International Airport is one of the country’s main gateways for international tourism and the event comes at a moment of accelerated growth with Brazil reaching a record 9.3 million international visitors in 2025 — a 37% increase year-on-year. The selection of GOL as the event’s official carrier reinforces the airline’s longstanding partnership with RIOgaleão. Together, we are committed to driving more visitors to Rio,” said Patrick Fehring, RIOgaleão’s Director of Aviation Business. Routes Americas 2026 will take place on 3-5 March at the ExpoRio CIDADE NOVA.

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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