Recent News

Farnborough, United Kingdom, July 23, 2024: De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (De Havilland Canada) and Pegasus Air Services finalized the purchase of a new DHC-6 Series 400 Twin Otter aircraft to add to Pegasus’ growing fleet and to support their strategic growth plans. Currently operating with three DHC 6-400 aircraft, Pegasus Air Services offers chartering services, private aviation, aircraft management services, aviation consultancy, and fixed base operations to a diverse customer base. “We are excited to add another DHC-6 Twin Otter to support our expanding business,” said Dinul Ichsan Avis, Director – PT Pegasus Air Services. “The Twin Otter is an exceptional aircraft, and the customer service from De Havilland Canada has been top-notch. It’s a perfect purchase and partnership for our growing company.” The new addition to their fleet will be stationed at the Aceh Province in Sumatra Islands and will be utilized for air access between Banda Aceh, Lhok Sukon and Medan, North Sumatra. “We continue to see great interest in the Twin Otter in the Asia Pacific region,” said Ryan DeBrusk, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing for De Havilland Canada. “It’s a market leader as the most reliable and versatile aircraft in its class, and we are pleased to see this order further grow the Twin Otter fleet in Indonesia with Pegasus Air Services.” The versatile DHC-6 Twin Otters carry passengers, move cargo, conduct medivac operations, and perform special missions in the world’s most challenging environments. De Havilland Canada introduced the new DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G in 2023, the latest generation of the Twin Otter aircraft, joining the current Series 400 aircraft. The DHC-6 family of aircraft allows for access to communities typically not accessible by other means, thanks to its short take-off and landing capabilities (STOL) coupled with multiple landing gear options.

Farnborough,July 23, 2024: GE Aerospace has announced that American Airlines has finalized an order for 180 CF34-8E engines plus spares to power its fleet of 90 new Embraer 175 regional jets. “The CF34 engine has a long track record of success with American Airlines and we’re grateful the American team is putting its trust in us again,” said Russell Stokes, President and CEO, Commercial Engines and Services, GE Aerospace. “This order, along with the CFM deals announced this spring with American, highlight our continued success at providing our customers industry-leading products and services.” More than 7,500 CF34 engines are in service with more than 900 Regional and Business Jet operators globally. The CF34-8E has accumulated more than 40 million flight hours and 29 million cycles since entering service on the Embraer E170/175 in 2004. Today, the CF34 engine line, which includes -3, -8, and -10 models, powers more than 2,500 regional commercial aircraft. “The reliability and performance of the CF34 engine has been critical to our success for many years,” said American’s CFO Devon May. “We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with GE Aerospace as we invest in modernizing and strengthening our domestic and regional fleet.” GE Aerospace has delivered nearly 11,000 CF34 engines and the line has a track record for outstanding reliability and durability, with a dispatch reliability rate of 99.97% (12-month rolling). All CF34 engines (like all GE Aerospace engines) can operate on approved SAF fuel blends today.

Farnborough, United Kingdom, July 23, 2024: At Farnborough Airshow,De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (De Havilland Canada) announced a purchase agreement for a Twin Otter Guardian 400 aircraft with an undisclosed European country for surveillance operations. The Twin Otter Guardian, renowned for its performance and adaptability, will enable this country’s air support unit to operate with greater precision and effectiveness, reinforcing their commitment to safeguarding their region. The aircraft is scheduled for delivery in mid-2025. The Twin Otter Guardian 400 aircraft is designed to meet the unique operational requirements of this police force and is equipped with a certified Airborne Technologies’ mission system. Key aircraft features include versatility, allowing for easy adaptation to a wide range of operational requirements; durability, with capabilities to operate in challenging weather conditions; and reliability, with a strong record of dependable performance. “We are proud to provide this country with the most reliable and versatile aircraft in its class, the Twin Otter Guardian 400. Discussions with the end user emphasized the vital role their air support unit will play in ensuring the safety and security of their citizens,” said Jean-Philippe Côté, Vice-President Programs and Business Improvement at De Havilland Canada. “They expressed confidence that the acquisition of the Twin Otter Guardian will demonstrate their commitment to equipping their law enforcement teams with the best tools available. The combination of the aircraft’s unique adaptability and De Havilland Canada’s global customer support network will ensure its long-term operation in their fleet.”

Delhi, 10th July 2024: Comfort meets sustainability in Business Class as SriLankan Airlines introduces new eco-friendly pillow covers and headrest covers (antimacassars) made from recycled PET plastic (rPET). This progressive move underscores the airline’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint as a sustainability-forward organization, while continuing to provide customers with the highest standards of quality. The new amenities are sourced from Procurall Solutions, a leader in designing and developing comfort and care solutions for the world’s top airlines. The pillow covers and antimacassars are made entirely from sustainable polyester, created from recycled PET plastic. This not only helps reduce plastic pollution but also conserves natural resources. Additionally, the production process of rPET is more energy-efficient, providing an added environmental benefit. Beyond the significant environmental benefits, the new pillow covers and antimacassars also feature a luxurious design, offering both style and comfort at 30,000 feet. Made from soft, durable and breathable fabric, they ensure maximum comfort and relaxation for passengers. The switch to rPET amenities demonstrates SriLankan Airlines’ enduring commitment to promoting sustainable operations for a greener future. These new items will complement the eco-friendly carpets introduced onboard a few months ago, as the airline takes gradual steps towards converting to fully sustainable cabins.

Hyderabad, 8th July 2024: Scandron Private Limited has received the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Type Certification for its advanced Agri-Drone model, SNDAG010QX8. The SNDAG010QX8 drone, certified under Type Certificate No. T0724000001Z, is a rotorcraft specifically designed for agricultural applications. Falling under the small category, this drone is set to significantly enhance the efficiency of spraying fertilizers and pesticides, crop surveillance, field monitoring, and livestock management. With this certification, Scandron Private Limited is poised to deliver innovative solutions that support sustainable farming practices and improve crop yields. Magellanic Cloud’s leadership in the Agri-Drone market is further solidified with this certification. By reducing dependency on foreign technology and components, Magellanic Cloud, through Scandron Private Limited, is committed to supporting the Government’s Make in India initiative. This move not only ensures a steady supply of high-quality drones tailored for Indian farmers but also fosters self-reliance in critical technology sectors. Joseph Sudheer Reddy Thumma, Director & Promotor, Magellanic Cloud said, “Receiving DGCA certification for our Agri-Drone through Scandron Private Limited is a testament to our commitment to innovation and quality in the agricultural technology sector. This milestone underscores our dedication to supporting Indian farmers with advanced, locally-manufactured drone solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability. We are proud to contribute to the Make in India initiative and look forward to further empowering the agricultural community through transformative technology” The DGCA certification reflects the supportive regulatory environment that is crucial for the growth of the Agri-Drone market in India.”

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) organised the first Asia Pacific Turboprop Safety Conference (APTSC) on 26-27 June 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Over a hundred delegates, including representatives from some twenty turboprop operators based in Australia, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Maldives, Nepal, Philippines, Taiwan, and Thailand attended the event. Themed ‘Empowering Resilient Growth’, the Conference aimed to enhance aviation safety in air transportation, particularly in turboprop operations. This is consistent with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) continuous safety outreach objectives. The event provided a valuable platform for stakeholders including regulators, turboprop operators, equipment manufacturers, aviation safety organisations and airport operators to exchange insights, best practices, and innovations in turboprop operations. Key topics ranging from safety culture, advancements in technology to regulatory frameworks were actively discussed, reinforcing best approaches to aviation safety. AAPA Director General, Mr. Subhas Menon, commented, “The Conference highlights the unique role that turboprop operators play in improving connectivity to regions where accessibility is limited. Turboprops play a crucial role in bridging the transportation gaps in access to goods, services, tourism, and ultimately better livelihoods for remote communities in far flung areas. The insights and collaboration fostered during this Conference will go a long way to support safe and reliable turboprop operations.” Ensuring the highest standards of safety is paramount in the aviation sector, and this conference underscored AAPA’s commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge-sharing. The AAPA extends its appreciation to all participants and supporting partners of the Conference, including ATR, Pratt & Whitney, L3 Harris, Gallagher Speciality, CAE.

Delhi, 5th July 2024: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Mr Richard Marles on July 04, 2024. Through a post on X, the Raksha Mantri stated that a range of issues pertaining to bilateral defence cooperation were reviewed, with focus on closer collaboration between the two countries in the Indo-Pacific. “We place great value on India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” he said. Both Ministers noted the transformative progress in defence cooperation under the comprehensive strategic partnership, and appreciated the momentum achieved in the ties since the last India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, which the two Ministers attended in November 2023. Australia considers India as a top-tier security partner in their National Defence Strategy document which was released in 2024. Richard Marles congratulated Rajnath Singh for taking charge as the Raksha Mantri for a second consecutive term, and appreciated the functioning of the Indian democratic system wherein people voted in large numbers. He also congratulated the Raksha Mantri on Team India becoming the T20 world champions.

London,27 June 2024: oneworld® alliance airlines scooped 40 top awards at the 2024 World Airline Awards this week.The awards – known as the Oscars of the aviation industry – were announced at a ceremony near London’s Heathrow Airport before an audience of specially invited guests from airlines around the world. oneworld member, Qatar Airways, was named Airline of the Year, marking an unprecedented eighth time it has been awarded the top accolade in the 25-year history of the awards. In total Qatar Airways won an impressive 12 awards. Six oneworld member airlines – British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways and Fiji Airways who has recently been announced as oneworld’s new full member – were also among the top 20 airlines worldwide, representing more than a quarter of the most highly ranked. Nat Pieper, CEO of oneworld, said: “I am incredibly proud to see so many oneworld member airlines recognised at this year’s Skytrax awards. “These awards are a testament to our members’ relentless pursuit of excellence in customer service and innovation, their unwavering commitment to putting our customers at the heart of everything we do. “Tens of thousands of colleagues across our alliance have all played a vital role in securing these impressive victories, and we celebrate this success with great honour.” oneworld airline awards at the 2024 World Airline Awards include: British Airways • World’s Most Family Friendly Airline • Most Family Friendly Airline in Europe Cathay Pacific Airways • World’s Best Economy Class • Best Economy Class in Asia • World’s Cleanest Airline • Cleanest Airline in Asia • Best Economy Class Onboard Catering in Asia Finnair • Best Airline in Northern Europe • Cleanest Airline in Europe • Best Cabin Crew in Northern Europe Iberia • Best Airline Staff in Europe • Best Cabin Crew in Southern Europe Japan Airlines • World’s Best Premium Economy Class • Best Premium Economy Class Airline Seat • Best Premium Economy Class in Asia • Best Economy Class Airline Seat Qantas Airways • Best Business Class in Australia / Pacific • Best Premium Economy Class in Australia/Pacific • Cleanest Airline in Australia/Pacific • Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in Australia & Pacific • Best Economy Class Onboard Catering in Australia & Pacific Qatar Airways • Airline of the Year 2024 • Best Airline in the Middle East • World’s Best Business Class • World’s Best Business Class Seat • Best Business Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East • Best Business Class in the Middle East • Best Economy Class in the Middle East • Best Cabin Crew in the Middle East • Cleanest Airline in the Middle East Qatar Airways Group – Hamad International Airport • World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge • Best Business Class Lounge in the Middle East • Best First Class Airline Lounge in the Middle East Royal Air Maroc • Best Regional Airline in Africa Oman Air (future member) • Best Airline Staff in the Middle East Fiji Airways (oneworld connect partner, future member) • Best Airline in Australia / Pacific • Best Economy Class in Australia/Pacific • Best Airline Staff in Australia / Pacific • Best Cabin Crew in Australia / Pacific • Best Business Class Onboard Catering in Australia & Pacific