Technology

2026, Technology

Air Astana launches high-speed satellite Wi-Fi at its Airbus A321LR aircraft

Astana, 29th October 2026: Air Astana has begun equipping its Airbus A321LR aircraft with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi. The project has been launched in partnership with SES, a global satellite communications provider, with the equipment being installed at the airline’s own technical facility. The first Airbus A321LR equipped with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi operated its first flight with internet access on board on the Almaty–Tashkent route today. The project has been implemented with the support of the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan. “Over the past year, significant work has been undertaken to establish the regulatory framework for introducing satellite internet connectivity on aircraft. Together with international partners, satellite operators and relevant organisations, we have addressed the requirements for using non-geostationary satellite systems in aviation. This has paved the way for the practical implementation of the technology. The first Air Astana aircraft equipped with satellite connectivity is a tangible result of this work. We will continue to expand access to high-quality internet so that people can stay connected while travelling, including by train and by air,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan. “High-speed Wi-Fi will make flights more comfortable, allowing our passengers to stay connected and use the internet in the air. At the same time, having the equipment installed by our own technical specialists enhances further development of Air Astana’s in-house engineering expertise. We thank the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development and the Ministry of Transport for their support in introducing satellite internet in aviation,” said Ibrahim Canliel, CEO of Air Astana. All passengers will have free access to the internet during the introductory period till 31 January 2027. From 1 February 2027, complimentary Wi-Fi access will be available to Business Class passengers and Nomad Club members with Gold and Diamond status. Nomad Club members of all tiers will be able to use onboard messaging services free of charge, while other passengers will be able to purchase internet packages. The rollout of high-speed Wi-Fi across the Airbus A321LR fleet will continue in phases throughout 2027.

Technology

IATA Partners with OneVasco to streamline visa applications

Geneva, 22nd October 2026: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and OneVasco announced that OneVasco’s visa concierge service will be integrated into IATA’s Timatic Solutions. This will simplify international air travel by connecting visa information and application services, enabling travelers to move directly from checking entry requirements through Timatic to applying for a visa, in a seamless digital experience. “Understanding what travel documents and visas are required for a journey is complicated. Joining forces with OneVasco will help passengers navigate travel requirements that can be time consuming and onerous. Together, we will help travelers understand the requirements and how to fulfil them,” said Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Products & Services. The 2025 IATA Global Passenger Survey highlighted that for 33% of passengers, complexity around visa and immigration requirements had deterred them from travel, a jump of 3 percentage points from 2024, with passengers from Africa and the Middle East the most discouraged. Process complexity was the primary cause of discouragement, cited by 53% of travelers who said they were dissuaded from travel by onerous visa or document requirements. “Bringing Timatic and OneVasco together on a single platform will simplify visa journeys and enhance the passenger experience for IATA partners. Through this partnership, travelers will have access to OneVasco’s visa concierge services, including support for both e-visas and sticker visas, with eligibility checks, document verification, application assistance, secure payments, and status tracking. This builds on the trusted service we deliver to travelers globally,” said Mahesh Anchan, COO of OneVasco. The visa service will be offered to airlines as a supplementary option to IATA’s Timatic Solutions, including integration with Timatic Web and Timatic Widget. Similarly, travel information from Timatic will be incorporated into OneVasco’s visa platform.

Technology

Singapore Airlines enhances in-flight entertainment

Singapore, 22nd October 2026: Singapore Airlines (SIA) is enhancing its in-flight entertainment experience with next-generation KrisWorld and high-speed connectivity, giving customers more choice, control, and flexibility throughout their journeys. The new KrisWorld brings together 4K high-resolution touchscreen displays, including OLED screens on selected aircraft and cabin classes, with spatial audio, active noise-cancellation headphones, Bluetooth pairing for personal headphones, a redesigned user interface, a new wellness planner, personalisation features, and more than 2,500 entertainment options. Together, these features bring movies, television shows, music, and other content to life through sharper visuals and richer, more dimensional sound with greater depth and clarity, while giving customers more control over how they enjoy their time on board. Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Singapore Airlines, said: “Our customers told us that they wanted more choice and flexibility in how they spend their time on board, as well as entertainment and connectivity that fit more naturally into their journey. This guided the development of SIA’s next-generation KrisWorld and connectivity offering, which make it easier to discover and enjoy content, stay in touch with loved ones, and move seamlessly between entertainment and other activities during the flight.” SIA’s next-generation KrisWorld will be introduced on its 41 retrofitted Airbus A350-900 long-haul and A350-900 ultra-long-range (ULR) aircraft, which will enter service progressively from 2027, as well as on its upcoming Boeing 777-9 aircraft. Specific features vary by aircraft and cabin class, as detailed in Annexe A. High-speed connectivity will complement the KrisWorld experience on Starlink-enabled aircraft, allowing customers to stream content, stay in touch with their loved ones, and continue activities such as social media, gaming, and work. Starlink will be introduced progressively from early 2027 on SIA’s Airbus A380, A350-900 long-haul, and A350-900ULR aircraft. The enhanced KrisWorld and high-speed connectivity form part of SIA’s elevated end-to-end travel experience, alongside the Airline’s next-generation long-haul cabin products, refreshed dining options, new amenities across all cabin classes, and enhanced on-ground services. The new travel experience will be unveiled in Singapore in November 2026.

2026, Technology

Honeywell Aerospace launches next-generation inflight connectivity platform for business jet operators

PHOENIX, October 21, 2026 : Honeywell Aerospace has announced JetWave X, the company’s next-generation inflight connectivity platform for business aviation, has entered into service and is now available to order directly and through authorized channel partners. “Business jet owners, operators, flight crews and passengers all benefit from JetWave X’s uninterrupted global connectivity,” said Adam Sheppard, general manager, Services and Connectivity at Honeywell Aerospace. “As the need for high-speed data increases, JetWave X enables aircraft operators to deliver an internet experience that more closely resembles what users expect at home or in the office.” JetWave X seamlessly connects to Viasat’s Ka-band network, including the ViaSat-3 and Global Xpress satellites, offering greater global capacity than ever before. The system’s open architecture is also designed to take advantage of the network’s continued growth as future satellites enter service. “The partnership between Honeywell Aerospace and Viasat is raising the bar for consistent, reliable, high-performance connectivity in business aviation,” said Claudio D’Amico, vice president of OEMs, partners and fleets, business aviation at Viasat. “JetWave X is the first terminal able to use our full network: the fully operational ViaSat-3 constellation, which has tripled the bandwidth available across Viasat’s network, together with the proven global coverage of our GX satellites. For customers, that means even more capacity, uncapped speeds and increased network prioritization for an enhanced connectivity experience wherever they fly.” The platform includes Advanced Data Control (ADC), a smart connectivity management system that combines multiple satellite and air-to-ground links at different orbital altitudes — geostationary orbit (GEO), medium earth orbit (MEO), highly elliptical orbit (HEO) and future low earth orbit (LEO) — into one optimized onboard network. ADC automatically prioritizes traffic by application type, ensures uninterrupted service through intelligent network switching and tailors bandwidth for different user groups like VIPs, crew and guests. It reacts in real time to outages or coverage gaps, delivering the best available connection for every activity — whether streaming, video calls or mission-critical tasks. Upgrading aircraft to JetWave X is fast and affordable because in most cases it uses existing Ka-band radomes and wiring. Current JetWave customers also benefit from a simple upgrade path with a trade-in program when moving to JetWave X.  

Technology, Top Stories

Embraer delivers first E175 featuring new RECARO seats to American Airlines

São José dos Campos, October 19, 2026: Embraer has announced the delivery of the first E175 equipped with new-generation RECARO passenger seats to American Airlines, marking another milestone in the continued evolution and modernization of one of the world’s most successful regional aircraft. The delivery introduces a new cabin experience designed to further enhance passenger comfort while reinforcing the E175’s position as the preferred regional jet in North America. The new generation seating represents the latest cabin enhancement available for the E175 platform, combining contemporary aesthetics with durable, human-centric ergonomics. “The E175 has built an unmatched reputation by continuously evolving to meet the needs of airlines and passengers,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “The introduction of our new RECARO seats demonstrates our commitment to investing in the platform and delivering enhancements that improve passenger experience while creating additional value for operators. The new RECARO seats feature a contemporary, slimline profile designed to maximize personal space and knee room without compromising cushion comfort. The upgrade is part of American’s ongoing cabin modernization journey and further elevates the onboard experience on the carrier’s regional fleet. The seating upgrade forms part of Embraer’s ongoing investment in the evolution and modernization of the E175, bringing its main cabin environment and passenger experience closer to the E2 family. Together, these enhancements deliver a more mainline-like experience while further strengthening the E175’s position as the benchmark regional jet. “As the ​first U.S. ​airline ​to ​introduce RECARO ​seats ​on ​Embraer E175 ​aircraft, ​we’re ​continuing to ​raise ​the ​bar for regional ​travel,” said Rhonda ​Crawford, Senior ​Vice ​President ​of Customer Experience ​Design and Strategy of American Airlines. “Our ​goal is ​to deliver the elevated experience ​customers want, while ​creating ​greater ​consistency across the American travel experience.” Embraer continues to invest in improvements across the E175 platform. In addition to the latest cabin enhancements, advanced technologies such as enhanced data connectivity and next-generation weather radar are designed to improve operational capability, situational awareness and efficiency throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle. With more than two decades of proven service and a strong track record with airlines worldwide, the E175 continues to set the benchmark for regional aviation, combining operational reliability, economic performance, and passenger comfort.

2026, Technology

PlaneSense to equip entire fleet of PC-12 turboprops and PC-24 Jets with Gogo Galileo connectivity

Broomfield, Colo.,16 October 2026 : PlaneSense, Inc., U.S. based fractional aircraft ownership company, announced its plans to equip its entire fleet of Pilatus PC-12 turboprops and PC-24 jets with Gogo Galileo satellite Wi-Fi, providing clients with faster, more reliable internet connectivity in flight. Following extensive research and evaluation, PlaneSense selected Gogo’s low Earth orbit (LEO) technology to enhance the onboard experience and help clients stay connected throughout their travels. “For more than 30 years, we have built the PlaneSense program around our clients’ needs, pairing a modern fleet with a thoughtful approach to technology and service,” says George Antoniadis, President and CEO, PlaneSense. “With Gogo Galileo, we are bringing reliable, high-performance bandwidth to our entire fleet. Our clients will be able to stay connected consistently from takeoff to landing, making their time onboard more productive and enjoyable.” PlaneSense operates the largest U.S. fleet of Pilatus PC-12 turboprops and PC-24 jets and will equip all 71 aircraft in its current fleet, as well as future deliveries, with Gogo Galileo’s compact, lightweight HDX antenna. The first Galileo-equipped PC-24 is scheduled for delivery in late October 2026. Installation on the existing jet fleet will begin at the same time, and all subsequent new PC-24s will arrive with Galileo factory-installed. Installation on the fleet’s PC-12s will begin in November 2026. PlaneSense plans to complete installation across its entire fleet by the end of 2027. Gogo Galileo is powered by the Eutelsat OneWeb LEO network, which delivers reliable high-speed, low-latency broadband globally. The HDX electronically steered antenna (ESA) offers a compact, lightweight, aerodynamic, and low-power solution and the system is “future-proof” for several reasons, including the fact that software updates can be deployed remotely. Rigorous testing gave PlaneSense confidence that Gogo Galileo can support multiple passengers as they stream video, participate in video meetings, and use other connected services simultaneously. “Our selection of Gogo Galileo builds on a relationship between PlaneSense and Gogo that dates back to the early 2000s,” explains Antoniadis. “We have long appreciated Gogo’s product quality and customer service, and I’m certain that together, we will meet the high expectations of our customers.” “We’re thrilled to be partnering with a premier fractional operator like PlaneSense,” says Chris Moore, CEO of Gogo. “Like all Gogo customers, PlaneSense fractional owners will also have access to our comprehensive suite of value-added services including advanced cybersecurity protections and training and industry-leading 24/7/365 global customer support. PlaneSense customers can rest easy knowing that Gogo minimizes data retention and protects customers’ sensitive information as we are committed to customer privacy.”

Technology, Top Stories

PayU and Malaysia Airlines signs MoU to enhance digital payments and booking experience

Mumbai, 12th October 2026: PayU and Malaysia Airlines signed a MoU to enhance the digital payment and booking experience for customers in India. The collaboration will combine PayU’s extensive payment ecosystem with Malaysia Airlines’ international network to create more seamless and relevant travel experiences powered by innovative and flexible payment solutions. The MoU marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration between Malaysia Airlines and PayU, with both companies exploring initiatives to support customer growth and strengthen the digital travel experience in India. Malaysia Airlines and PayU will explore innovative and payment solutions, flexible payment options, exclusive offers and co-branded marketing initiatives to enhance customer engagement, drive incremental bookings, and support customer acquisition in India. The collaboration will also explore tailored propositions to address the distinct needs of leisure, premium, student, and corporate travelers. The MoU was signed by Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airline Business from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and Hemang Dattani, Chief Business Officer​ from PayU Payments Private Limited​. “Travel is a high-intent category where seamless payments, flexibility, and relevant offers can meaningfully influence the customer experience. Through this MoU, PayU and Malaysia Airlines will explore ways to make digital bookings and payments experience more convenient and seamless, while creating differentiated propositions for diverse traveler segments”, says Hemang Dattani, Chief Business Officer, PayU Payments. “India remains an important and strategic market for Malaysia Airlines, and we are committed to making every journey more seamless, convenient and rewarding for our customers. Our collaboration with PayU will enable us to explore more convenient and relevant payment and engagement solutions that respond to the evolving needs and preferences of Indian travelers,,” says Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airline Business from MAG.

Technology

Gogo announces new STC for Galileo HDX on the Gulfstream G650 and G650ER

Broomfield, Colo. / 1st July 2026: Gogo has announced that Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has received a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to install Gogo Galileo HDX on Gulfstream G650 and Gulfstream G650ER aircraft. HDX is an electronically steered antenna (ESA) that provides a compact, lightweight, low-power, high-performance connectivity solution for Gulfstream large cabin aircraft. Gogo Galileo is powered by Eutelsat’s OneWeb enterprise-grade low earth orbit (LEO) network offering crew and passengers high-speed, low-latency connectivity around the world including video conferencing, streaming, communications, and internet browsing, simultaneously from multiple devices. “The addition of Gogo Galileo HDX as an aftermarket option for the G650 and G650ER reflects the growing demand for high-speed connectivity and provides operators with the latest technology in business aviation,” said Chris Moore, CEO of Gogo. “Operators using this system will experience consistent, high-speed inflight internet performance, backed by Gogo’s cyber security protections and 24/7/365 customer support.” Gulfstream’s tail mounted Under The Radome (UTR) installation of the Galileo HDX minimizes down time, maximizes performance, and complements the design of the aircraft. It is backwards compatible with existing network equipment, fully integrated with the cabin, and approved for multiple radomes to maximize flexibility and value. In addition, operators will have access to Gogo’s comprehensive suite of value-added services, including advanced cyber security features and industry-leading global customer support. Customers can also rely on Gogo’s future-proof systems, purpose-built for business aviation and meant to be easy to upgrade with future technology requirements.

Technology

Diamond Aircraft and FlySight integrate OPENSIGHT mission console for Eurosatory 2026

Paris, June 18, 2026: Diamond Aircraft and FlySight announced the integration of FlySight’s OPENSIGHT Mission Console onboard Diamond Aircraft platforms, now fully operational and flying on board the aircraft that will be showcased at Eurosatory 2026.As part of this integration, the aircraft OE-FHQ equipped with the OPENSIGHT Mission Console is already flying over Paris, where it is currently on display this week as part of Diamond Aircraft’s presence at Eurosatory. The Diamond Aircraft platform will take to the skies with the fully integrated OPENSIGHT turnkey Mission Console solution onboard, delivering real-time mission visualization, sensor integration, and advanced geospatial intelligence during flight operations. For this occasion, the aircraft OE-FHQ has also been equipped with dedicated OPENSIGHT branding, further emphasizing the close technical cooperation between the two companies and the operational relevance of the integration (photo attached).  The joint demonstration at Eurosatory 2026 represents an important milestone in the development of next-generation airborne mission solutions, combining advanced aircraft platforms with scalable mission software to support modern defense and security operations worldwide.  “Seeing OPENSIGHT flying onboard this aircraft on its way to Eurosatory is much more than a technical milestone for us. It represents years of vision, persistence, and hard work — a journey that started with an idea and grew into a mission system now trusted in real operational environments. For us, this is not just about technology; it is about seeing our own story, our people, and our commitment taking flight.” said Andrea Masini, CEO of FlySight. Statement from Diamond Aircraft: Diamond Aircraft is committed to delivering highly capable and adaptable airborne platforms that meet the evolving requirements of defence, security, and special mission operators worldwide. The successful integration of FlySight’s OPENSIGHT Mission Console demonstrates the flexibility of our aircraft and our ability to collaborate with leading technology partners to provide complete mission-ready solutions. We are pleased to showcase this integrated capability at our Demo next to the exhibition Eurosatory 2026, highlighting how advanced mission systems and reliable airborne platforms can work together to enhance situational awareness and operational effectiveness.

Technology

FAA STC approval for Gogo Galileo HDX installation on the Pilatus PC-12

Broomfield, CO.,16 June 2026: SD Government, a Gogo company providing connectivity infrastructure solutions to global governments and military, in partnership with Pilatus and Pro Star Aviation, have received the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for the installation of the Gogo Galileo HDX on the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop. The approval covers multiple variants, including for special missions. The first PC-12 modified by Pilatus to include Gogo Galileo in accordance with the Pro Star STC is expected to return to service imminently. The aircraft is part of a previously announced SD Government federal contract for multi-orbit, multi-band airborne global satellite communications to a US government agency. Gogo Galileo harnesses the power of Eutelsat OneWeb’s low earth orbit (LEO) satellite network to deliver high-speed, low-latency connectivity globally. The Galileo HDX electronically steered antenna (ESA) offers a compact, lightweight, aerodynamic and low-power solution and is minimally invasive to install. This new Gogo Galileo HDX STC will bring formerly unprecedented global connectivity capabilities to government, defense and other special missions PC-12 operators, enabling the streaming of time-sensitive data, including HD video, imagery, secure chat, and even real-time medical information for MEDEVAC purposes. Private and business operators can also take advantage of this new FAA STC, enabling high-speed internet services for users in the cabin and cockpit. Pro Star Aviation, a US Pilatus Sales and Service Center, worked alongside Pilatus to develop and certify the FAA STC. Subsequent European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) approvals are expected as Gogo Galileo HDX becomes available as both a retrofit for in-service PC-12s and a line-fit option for newbuild aircraft. “This certification marks another important step in expanding the capabilities of the PC-12 for government, defense, and special missions operators worldwide. Reliable, high-speed connectivity has become an essential mission requirement, enabling crews and decision-makers to exchange critical information in real time. Through our collaboration with SD Government and Pro Star Aviation, we are pleased to offer a proven connectivity solution that further enhances the versatility, effectiveness, and operational value of the PC-12 platform for customers operating in even the most demanding environments,” says Möhl Oliver, CEO and President of Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd. “We are excited to bring Gogo Galileo HDX to government, defense and special missions PC-12 operators, enabling them to securely stream mission-critical data from the aircraft to connected users, anywhere in the world. The PC-12 is an incredibly popular special missions aircraft – aside from our US Government launch customer, we’re already experiencing high demand for this upgrade from a variety of global operators,” says Ben Massey, SVP of Government Sales for SD Government. “Working directly with Pilatus and Gogo during the preliminary planning phase allowed us all to develop an installation design that is flexible and compatible with the entire in-service fleet as well as new aircraft production,” adds Jeffrey Shaw, Director of Sales and Marketing at Pro Star Aviation.  

FOREWORD

Dear Readers,

The Asia-Pacific aviation sector is expanding rapidly, driving growth far beyond aircraft numbers into crucial verticals like MRO, training, logistics, and aerospace supply chains. In this edition of Aviation World, we bring you exclusive interviews and features from across these sectors, offering direct industry insights from top global leadership.

Our cover story highlights Shveta Gupta, CEO of Divyanshi Aviation. Under her dynamic leadership, the company has established itself as one of India’s premier aerospace supply chain providers, partnering with leading global manufacturers. Our corporate feature delves into Divyanshi Aviation’s core operations, paired with an exclusive interview where Ms. Gupta candidly shares her professional journey and vision for the company’s future.

This issue also features exclusive conversations with prominent industry leaders, including:

  • Ron Nye, President of Avionics, Acron Aviation
  • Bob Gibbs, Vice President, Defense & Special Missions Sales, Textron Aviation
  • Sudhir S. Rajeshirke, President – Aerospace, Jubilant Enpro
  • Emmanuel Simon, Program Manager and Aerospace Leader, PHINIA
  • Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer, Saudia Group
  • Simon Azar, Vice President, Civil Aviation, Asia Pacific, CAE

Each leader offers key perspectives on their organization’s strategic initiatives and their growing contributions to the Indian aviation and aerospace ecosystem. Additionally, you will find expert-authored analytical features offering deep dives into current sector trends.

Aviation World continues to expand its global footprint as an official media partner for major domestic and international aviation events. Our editorial team will be participating in several upcoming global forums, and we look forward to connecting with industry peers and exploring new collaborations.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our advertisers and partners whose continued support fuels our endeavor.

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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