Top Stories

Top Stories

FLY91’s starts Navi Mumbai ticket sales; to operate 350+ weekly flights in winter schedule

Panaji, 12th October 2026: Indian regional airline FLY91 has opened bookings for its new Navi Mumbai services, with the sector becoming its 14th destination and fifth in Maharashtra. The new services will connect Mumbai with Sindhudurg and Jalgaon in Maharashtra, Mopa in Goa and Agatti in the Lakshadweep island. Meanwhile, FLY91’s Winter Schedule 2026-27, will witness an increase in weekly flights from from 280 to 350+. Passengers travelling from Navi Mumbai will also have access to Agatti in Lakshadweep, creating a new travel connection between the Mumbai region and the island destination. Passengers will also be able to travel from Navi Mumbai to Jalgaon via Goa, extending the reach of FLY91’s regional network. The Winter Schedule represents a significant expansion of FLY91’s network, with higher frequencies across its network supporting improved connectivity and aircraft utilisation. The expansion comes as the airline continues to build a regional network connecting emerging cities with important economic, tourism and pilgrimage centres across India. “Navi Mumbai is an important addition to FLY91’s network. It is our 14th destination and fifth in Maharashtra. We will be connecting the financial capital to emerging markets in western India. FLY91 will operate flights from Navi Mumbai to Sindhudurg, Jalgaon, Goa and Agatti. Our focus continues to remain on building a practical regional network that makes air travel more accessible and truly connects Bharat.” said Manoj Chacko, Founder, Managing Director and CEO, FLY91. With Navi Mumbai, FLY91’s network now spans 14 destinations: Goa (Manohar International Airport, Mopa), Navi Mumbai, Sindhudurg, Jalgaon, Solapur, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Agatti, Kochi, Hubballi, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada and Tirupati. The expansion follows FLY91’s recent firm order for 40 ATR 72-600 aircraft, valued at approximately $1 billion, the largest ATR firm order globally by a regional airline. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2032 and will support the airline’s planned fleet expansion and continued network growth

Top Stories

SOMON AIR to introduce inflight entertainment with MOMENT

Paris, 12th October 2026 :  Somon Air, the national carrier of Tajikistan, has selected Moment to introduce inflight entertainment for the first time, as part of its fleet modernisation with Boeing. The agreement covers eight new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. Somon Air currently operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet, and none of its aircraft have offered inflight entertainment until now. The airline is renewing its commercial fleet with new 737 MAX 8 aircraft, as part of a wider modernisation programme announced with Boeing in November 2025. The first 737 MAX 8 was delivered in August 2026. Moment’s platform is scheduled to enter service on these aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2026. The agreement comes as Central Asia records the fastest airline capacity growth of any region in the world: seat capacity across the region has risen by nearly 500% over the past two decades, an average annual growth rate of 7.7%, according to OAG. Somon Air becomes Moment’s second airline customer in Central Asia after SCAT Airlines in Kazakhstan, and its third across the wider Caucasus and Central Asia region, after AZAL, where Moment’s entertainment platform has been on board since 2019. Somon Air’s network has historically been anchored on flights to Russia, connecting Tajik communities there, alongside services to the Gulf, the Middle East, South Asia and a growing number of European points. Somon Air also operates domestic flights within Tajikistan. No aircraft modification, no downtime Moment will equip the aircraft with its Flymingo Box, a portable IFE server that runs on its own battery rather than the aircraft’s power system. Because it requires no Supplemental Type Certificate or structural change, each unit is fitted directly onto the aircraft without an additional certification step, which means Somon Air can bring entertainment onto its new 737 MAX 8 aircraft without adding to its delivery and entry-into-service programme. Each Flymingo Box runs for up to 14 hours between charges and supports up to 100 streaming connected devices, so passengers stream directly to their own smartphones, tablets or laptops. A modular platform Somon Air chose Moment’s Mood platform for its modular structure: airlines select individual modules rather than a fixed bundle. For this agreement, Somon Air has selected the entertainment module, covering video, games and podcasts, the travel information module, which includes a moving map, and the Ads module, which gives Somon Air’s own teams an advertising server to manage onboard campaigns in full autonomy. As content service provider, Moment will supply Somon Air with an international entertainment catalogue, including films, series, games and podcasts, available in Tajik, Russian and English. “Our fleet renewal is about more than new aircraft, it changes what we can offer passengers from the first flight,” said Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air. “Introducing entertainment at the same time as the 737 MAX 8 enters service means we start this new chapter with a modern cabin experience.“ “Central Asia’s airline capacity has grown by nearly 500% in twenty years, the fastest rate of any region in the world,” said Tanguy Morel, CEO and co-founder of Moment. “Somon Air is introducing entertainment at the same time as it renews its fleet with the 737 MAX 8, so the onboard experience is built in from day one rather than added later. It’s the same pattern we’ve seen with AZAL and SCAT Airlines, and it’s becoming the norm across the region.”

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.

MRO, Top Stories

ST Engineering Opens New Airframe MRO Facility in Singapore

Singapore, 9 October 2026 : ST Engineering officially opened its new Commercial Aerospace airframe maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility at Changi Creek, located within Singapore’s Changi Airport, today. As ST Engineering’s fourth airframe MRO site in Singapore, the new facility expands the Group’s MRO capacity in one of the world’s leading aviation hubs and strengthens its Commercial Aerospace business’ global airframe MRO network to support growing aircraft maintenance demand. Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Trade), Gan Kim Yong, graced the opening ceremony. The 84,000 sqm facility features four widebody aircraft bays which when fully operational, will add 40 percent additional capacity to ST Engineering’s widebody airframe MRO network in Singapore. This potentially translates to some 100 additional widebody aircraft serviced in Singapore per year, giving customers greater flexibility and assured access to maintenance slots as airline fleets expand and aircraft remain in service longer. Smarter Maintenance Through Digital Technologies and AI The facility is designed for a new generation of airframe maintenance, integrating digitisation, automation and AI to improve efficiency, visibility and maintenance outcomes. Advanced digital planning systems, automated storage and retrieval solutions, robotics and electronic documentation rooms provide end-to-end visibility across the maintenance lifecycle, enabling more streamlined and data-driven operations. Drones will perform general visual inspections with greater speed and precision, while Autonomous Mobile Robots will deliver aircraft parts directly from storage areas to maintenance bays, improving workflow efficiency and reducing manual handling. Real-time maintenance dashboards will provide instant operational insights, enabling faster and better-informed decision-making. Together with AI-enabled aircraft inspection and defect identification capabilities, these technologies will enhance maintenance quality, improve aircraft turnaround time and strengthen operational safety, reliability and customer service. This facility also incorporates sustainability features, including on-site solar generation and rainwater harvesting. Building a Future-Ready Workforce When fully ramped up, the facility is expected to employ over 500 people. To support increasingly digital and automated maintenance operations, ST Engineering will provide training and upskilling programmes in digital technologies and AI-enabled work processes, equipping employees with the skills needed to complement their technical expertise and work effectively alongside advanced technologies. “As airline fleets expand and aircraft stay in service longer, airlines need assured capacity, dependable reliability and consistently high quality. Our latest airframe facility aims to meet these customer expectations,” said Kevin Chow, President of Commercial Aerospace at ST Engineering. “This being Singapore’s latest aerospace facility designed for more technology-enabled MRO operations, it also reinforces the country’s strengths as a leading global aviation hub while supporting the development of advanced aerospace capabilities and skilled jobs here.” “ST Engineering’s new facility is a significant expansion of its MRO capacity and capabilities. The facility will feature advanced robotics, digital and AI capabilities that enable connected, automated and sustainable maintenance operations. These capabilities would provide opportunities for Singaporeans to upskill, work with exciting technologies and pursue rewarding careers in aerospace. We look forward to partnering companies like ST Engineering to further Singapore’s standing as a premier global aerospace and aviation hub,” said Cindy Koh, Executive Vice President at Singapore Economic Development Board. Outside Singapore, ST Engineering’s airframe MRO network in Asia Pacific includes facilities in Guangzhou and Ezhou, China. A second hangar at Ezhou is expected to become operational in the second half of 2027, while two new hangars in Pensacola, U.S., will become operational progressively from early 2027, further expanding the Group’s global capacity.

Top Stories

India SAF Conclave 2026 puts farmers, finance, technology and global partnerships at the heart of aviation’s cleaner future

India’s SAF industry could create new agricultural markets, attract global investment and develop up to 40 million tonnes of annual production potential by 2050 NEW DELHI, 29th September  2026:  India’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) ambitions are creating a new intersection between aviation, agriculture, energy, technology and global investment, as the country seeks to build a globally competitive SAF production ecosystem. More than 500 delegates from 25+ countries, representing 200 companies and 100 industry leaders, gathered at Bharat Mandapam on September 28–29 for the second India SAF Conclave & Awards, organised by the SAF Association (SAFA). The two-day international platform brought together airlines, refiners, investors, technology companies, feedstock producers, policymakers and sustainability organisations to examine how India can move from SAF policy and targets to investment, production and commercial-scale deployment. India’s indicative SAF blending pathway for international aviation calls for 1% in 2027, 2% in 2028 and 5% by 2030, creating growing demand for production capacity, feedstock, infrastructure, certification and long-term offtake. From Indian farms to global aviation The SAF opportunity extends beyond aviation. Agricultural residues, ethanol, used cooking oil and other feedstocks could create new markets across India’s rural economy. Estimates presented at the conclave indicate that SAF feedstock opportunities could potentially add around US$160–300 (₹15,000–₹29,000) per hectare to farmer income, depending on feedstock, yields, collection systems and market economics. Various studies estimate that India could develop the potential to produce around 40 million tonnes of SAF annually by 2050, representing approximately 8–10% of estimated global SAF potential. “SAFA is committed to bringing the entire SAF value chain together through industry-led collaboration and global partnerships,” said Rohit Kumar, Secretary General, SAF Association & CMAI. “Our focus is to power the SAF transition together by connecting policymakers, investors, technology providers, feedstock players and buyers to create practical opportunities and turn collaboration into projects, investment and commercial-scale SAF production.” Investment, technology and global partnerships The conclave featured discussions across HEFA, Alcohol-to-Jet, Power-to-Liquid, Gas-to-SAF, carbon capture, project finance and long-term offtake agreements. Through its SAFA Matchmaking programme, the association connected project developers with investors, technology providers, feedstock companies and prospective buyers, creating opportunities for commercial partnerships and investment. International cooperation was also a major theme H.E. Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Al Shibani, Ambassador of Oman to India, said: “India’s SAF transition presents significant opportunities for collaboration across energy, technology and investment. Strong India-Oman partnerships can help develop sustainable aviation solutions and strengthen the clean-energy ecosystem. International cooperation will be critical to accelerating SAF adoption and building a sustainable aviation future.” H.E. Benedikt Höskuldsson, Ambassador of Iceland to India, said: “Green technologies and Power-to-X pathways can play an important role in shaping the next generation of sustainable aviation. Innovation must be connected with investment, technology deployment and practical implementation.” Making SAF’s climate benefit measurable SAF can deliver up to 80–90% lifecycle CO₂ emissions savings, depending on the feedstock and production pathway. Demonstrating those reductions through robust measurement, reporting, verification and certification will be essential for building confidence among airlines, investors and international markets. The conclave also examined sustainability certification, traceability and Book and Claim systems as the global SAF market develops. “Scaling SAF will require reliable feedstocks, technology readiness, financing, certification, infrastructure and long-term offtake commitments,” said Dr. Alok Sharma, Vice President, SAF Association and former Director, R&D, IOCL. The 2030 test India’s indicative pathway could increase SAF demand from approximately 46,000 tonnes in 2027 to around 250,000 tonnes by 2030. Meeting that ambition will require new production capacity, including planned HEFA and Alcohol-to-Jet projects, alongside stronger feedstock collection and supply chains. The India SAF Awards recognised organisations contributing to SAF policy, technology, feedstocks, investment, research and adoption. The event also marked the launch of SAFTimes.com, a dedicated knowledge and news platform focused on sustainable aviation fuel. India’s global SAF platform The India SAF Conclave & Awards, organised by SAFA, is emerging as an international platform connecting policy, investment, technology, feedstocks and aviation around the development of India’s SAF industry. The next edition will take place on September 16–17, 2027, in New Delhi, under the theme: “From Transition to Take-off: Scaling India’s SAF Ecosystem.”

Events, Top Stories

Airport-airline partnerships take centre stage at World Aviation Festival 2026

LISBON, Portugal, 2 October 2026 :  The World Aviation Festival (WAF) is introducing a dedicated Airport & Airline Collaboration Track at its 2026 event, taking place between 13-15 October in Lisbon. The programme will look at how airports and airlines can build joint operational resilience and enable seamless travel for passengers. It will also bring in perspectives from border management, ground handlers, and technology providers. Daniel Boyle, General Manager of Transport at WAF organiser Terrapinn, said: “Airlines and airports are facing many of the same pressures, but too often they are still trying to solve them in isolation. Meaningful collaboration between the two has never been more important.   “That’s why we’re creating an honest forum where leaders can cut through the usual talking points, confront the legacy systems and entrenched ways of working that continue to hold the industry back, and identify practical ways to move forward together. This isn’t collaboration for collaboration’s sake; it’s about delivering better operations, stronger commercial outcomes and, ultimately, a better passenger experience.” A panel on digital identity infrastructure will consider the role of standards including IATA One ID and ICAO Digital Travel Credentials, and whether passengers can expect to be able to travel end-to-end without a traditional passport by 2030. Panellists include Maurice Jenkins from Miami International Airport, Amin Lalani from Delta Air Lines, Vladimir Stojkovski from CLEAR, and Lisette Looren de Jong from the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security. Another session will explore how airports, airlines and ground handlers can move beyond parallel responses and build joint operational resilience. Attendees can hear from Istvan Szabo of Berlin Brandenburg Airport, Ryan Abram of dnata, Adam Schipper of Ericsson, Chamith Seneviratne of Air Canada, and Marc-Philippe Lumpé of Air Transat. Girish Nair, COO at Bangalore International Airport, will take part in a fireside chat on how airports and airlines can better align their operations and commercial outcomes.

Top Stories

KLM marks 70 years of Delhi flights, gets award for ‘Best Airline for SAF Adoption (Commercial)’

This winter, KLM will operate up to 27 weekly flights from India, including an increase in frequency on the Delhi route, offering up to 10 flights a week. New Delhi, Oct.1st 2026: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is scaling up its Indian operations to 27 weekly flights for the upcoming winter schedule, announced senior leadership during a media briefing in Delhi. The milestone coincides with the airline’s 70th anniversary of operations in the capital, celebrating seven decades of seamlessly linking New Delhi to Amsterdam and its extensive global network. Since its maiden flight from Delhi in 1955, KLM has stood as a vital bridge between India, the Netherlands, and the rest of Europe, maintaining one of the region’s most enduring aviation partnerships. India is a focus market for KLM as the airline today operates from four key Indian cities; Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, connecting customers to over 160 destinations worldwide through its hub at Amsterdam, Schiphol. Laure Daynie, Country Manager, Air France – KLM, India, said, “Seventy years is a truly special milestone, and we are proud to celebrate this remarkable journey with our customers, business partners and colleagues across India, said  KLM’s first direct service between India and Amsterdam operated on the Delhi – Amsterdam route, which remains one of our most important markets.” She added, ” For seven decades, this connection has brought generations of travellers, families and businesses closer together, linking India with The Netherlands and KLM’s global network. It is particularly meaningful that, in this milestone year, Delhi was chosen as the destination for KLM’s The Aviation Challenge flight and that our sustainability initiatives have been recognized here in India with our win at the SAF Awards 2026. We are proud to showcase in India how innovation, collaboration and a strong commitment to sustainability can help shape the future of aviation.” KLM “The Aviation Challenge” in Delhi The anniversary year has also placed Delhi at the heart of KLM’s sustainability agenda. On 28 September, KLM operated the flight from Amsterdam to Delhi as part of The Aviation Challenge, a SkyTeam initiative that brings airlines together to test sustainable solutions and share learnings across the industry. The flight to Delhi focused on raising awareness about SAF, an alternative to regular fuel for planes, helping customers understand its role in reducing aviation’s environmental impact and encouraging them to support the transition towards more sustainable air travel. KLM wins at India SAF Awards 2026 At the India SAF Awards 2026, organized by the SAF Association India, in Delhi, KLM’s sustainability initiatives were recognized as it was awarded ‘Best Airline for SAF Adoption (Commercial).’

Top Stories

Deutsche Aircraft opens D328eco final assembly line in Leipzig

The D328eco regional aircraft enters its industrialisation and production phase. €100M investment establishes Leipzig as the production home of the D328eco, with an annual capacity of up to 48 aircraft. 60,500m² footprint includes assembly line, flight readiness hangar, logistics centre and administrative headquarters. Creation of approximately 250 new direct jobs with the production ramp-up, strengthening Saxony’s aviation ecosystem. Leipzig, Germany, 29th September 2026 : Deutsche Aircraft has officially inaugurated its Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Leipzig/Halle Airport, attended by Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister for Transport, and Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection of the Free State of Saxony. The inauguration marks the transition of the D328eco programme from development to serial production, establishing Leipzig as the production home of Germany’s next-generation regional aircraft. The opening also represents the return of aircraft manufacturing to Saxony for the first time in more than 60 years, reinforcing the region’s position as a centre for aerospace and innovation. This new facility embodies the programme’s vision: “Made in Germany. Built in Saxony. Delivered to the World” — bringing together German engineering excellence, Saxony’s industrial expertise and Leipzig’s international connectivity in a single production hub. Beyond supporting the D328eco programme, the FAL strengthens Germany’s ability to design, certify, test, manufacture and support complete aircraft. Deutsche Aircraft’s integrated operations across Oberpfaffenhofen and Leipzig create an end-to-end aerospace capability in the country, spanning engineering, certification, flight testing, industrialisation, final assembly and customer delivery. The site reinforces Germany’s industrial resilience and competitiveness while ensuring that critical aircraft manufacturing know-how remains anchored domestically for future generations. The opening ceremony welcomed representatives from the German Federal Government, the Free State of Saxony, industry partners, suppliers, customers and members of the aviation community to celebrate the landmark occasion. Michael Kretschmer, Prime Minister and Head of Government of the Free State of Saxony, addressed guests via video message. Representing an investment of more than €100 million, the facility has been designed for an annual production capacity of up to 48 aircraft. Spanning 60,500 square metres — equivalent to approximately eight football fields — the site includes the Final Assembly Line, Flight Readiness Hangar, logistics centre and administration building. Designed as a modern, digital and sustainability-focused production environment, the FAL incorporates advanced manufacturing technologies, automated logistics systems and paperless production processes to increase efficiency, quality and transparency throughout aircraft assembly. Energy-efficient infrastructure, including photovoltaic systems and heat pump technology, reflect Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth. The Free State of Saxony is supporting the project with approximately €3.2 million through the Federal-State GRW programme (“Joint Task for the Improvement of Regional Economic Structures”), underlining its significance for regional economic development. Expected to create approximately 250 new direct jobs as production ramps up over the coming years, the Leipzig Final Assembly Line will support skilled employment throughout the aerospace supply chain. Beyond direct employment, the programme will create opportunities for apprentices, technicians, engineers and manufacturing specialists, nurturing the next generation of aerospace talent in Saxony. As one of the most significant aerospace investments in Germany in recent years, the Final Assembly Line represents an important contribution to the economic transformation of Central Germany. Beyond the direct creation of highly skilled jobs, the programme will generate long-term industrial value across the aerospace supply chain and strengthen Saxony’s position within Germany’s aerospace sector. Leadership Perspectives Nico Neumann, Chief Executive Officer, Deutsche Aircraft:  “Today is about much more than opening a factory. It marks the return of aircraft manufacturing to Saxony and a major milestone for the D328eco programme. Together, our sites in Oberpfaffenhofen and Leipzig create an end-to-end capability for developing, certifying, industrialising, manufacturing and supporting complete aircraft in Germany. For the first time in more than 60 years, every phase of the aircraft lifecycle will be integrated under a German aircraft programme. Carrying forward Dornier’s pioneering legacy, the FAL strengthens Germany’s resilience, competitiveness and sovereign aerospace capabilities while advancing a new generation of sustainable regional aviation. Today we celebrate an important milestone. Tomorrow, we continue building the future of regional aviation.” Michael Kretschmer, Prime Minister and Head of Government of the Free State of Saxony (video message):  “The inauguration of this Final Assembly Line highlights Saxony’s position as a competitive industrial and aerospace location with a promising future. Investments such as those undertaken by Deutsche Aircraft strengthen our aerospace sector, create highly qualified jobs and further increase Saxony’s appeal for international industrial projects.” Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister of Transport:  “The opening of Deutsche Aircraft’s Final Assembly Line in Leipzig sends a strong signal for Germany as an industrial and aviation hub. The D328eco programme demonstrates that innovation, advanced manufacturing and sustainable regional aviation can be developed in Germany and produced for the world. By combining engineering expertise, industrial excellence and forward-looking production capabilities, Deutsche Aircraft is helping to preserve critical aerospace know-how, strengthen regional value creation, and further enhance Germany’s competitiveness in a strategically important industry.” Dirk Panter, State Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour, Energy and Climate Protection:  “The opening of this Final Assembly Line is a significant milestone for Saxony as a centre for innovation and advanced manufacturing. This investment strengthens our industrial base, creates highly skilled jobs and demonstrates how economic growth and climate-conscious technologies can go hand in hand. The D328eco programme reinforces Saxony’s position as a leading aerospace location and highlights the region’s attractiveness for future-focused industries.” Marie-Christine von Hahn, Principal Managing Director, German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI):  “Germany can now develop and build a complete aircraft. Bavaria and Saxony have brought together their strengths to make this possible. With the opening of its Final Assembly Line in Leipzig, Deutsche Aircraft is sending a powerful message about the future of the German aerospace industry and Germany as a whole. The D328eco programme stands for technological innovation and long-term value creation that will benefit generations to come. This investment creates highly skilled jobs and strengthens Germany’s competitiveness on the global stage. It is a clear

Top Stories

SkyPulse-HAL signs MoU,to establish domestic helicopter leasing ecosystem through GIFT City

New Delhi, 26th Sept 2026: GIFT City–based aircraft leasing platform SkyPulse Solutions IFSC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to establish a domestic helicopter acquisition, leasing, and lifecycle-support ecosystem in India. Under the initial agreement, SkyPulse plans to procure up to 30 HAL-manufactured helicopters in phases. The fleet will comprise Next-Generation Dhruv (Dhruv-NG) twin-engine and single-engine platforms, designed for deployment across a wide range of commercial and government missions. Onshoring Aviation Finance via GIFT City A core element of the partnership is its financing structure, anchored in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). By utilizing the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) framework, SkyPulse aims to offer localized operating leases and asset management services tailored to domestic helicopter operators. Expanding Civil Aviation Capabilities The partnership aims to expand the footprint of domestically produced helicopters into high-demand civil and utility sectors, including: Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) and air ambulance operations. Search and rescue (SAR) and rapid disaster response missions. Infrastructure support, tourism, and last-mile regional air connectivity. Statement from Mr. Gagan Jacobs Director, SkyPulse Solutions IFSC Private Limited: This MoU marks a defining milestone for SkyPulse and for the evolution of India’s civil helicopter ecosystem. Our vision is not simply to acquire and lease helicopters; it is to build an integrated, commercially sustainable helicopter ecosystem that brings together indigenous manufacturing, innovative aviation finance, leasing, asset management, lifecycle support and mission-ready operations. By combining HAL’s world-class indigenous aerospace capabilities with SkyPulse’s platform at GIFT City, we aim to create a scalable model through which Indian-manufactured helicopters can be deployed where they are needed most — from HEMS and air ambulance services to disaster response, search and rescue, regional connectivity, infrastructure and other critical missions. The proposed 30-helicopter programme is an important first step in this journey. Our ambition is to develop a long-term platform that supports the growth of India’s helicopter industry, strengthens domestic capabilities and creates new opportunities for financing, leasing, MRO, training and mission support. For SkyPulse, this is about more than aircraft. It is about building the financial and operational infrastructure around Indian helicopters and creating a model that can scale across India and, over time, international markets. We are proud to partner with HAL in this endeavour and look forward to translating this framework into tangible programmes that contribute to Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India and the expansion of India’s civil aviation ecosystem.

Top Stories

Philippine Airlines to start direct flights to Delhi & Mumbai from Manila

Manila, 25th Sept. 2026: Philippine Airlines (PAL) plans to expand travel options from India with three weekly non-stop flights from Delhi to Manila and its first-ever Mumbai–Manila service with four weekly flights beginning December 2026, subject to Indian Government approval. The new routes will give Indian travelers direct access to the Philippines and convenient onward connections through PAL’s Manila hub to destinations across Southeast Asia,North America, Australia and North Asia. “We look forward to welcoming more Indian travelers aboard Philippine Airlines and introducing them to the Philippines through our signature Filipino hospitality,” said PAL President Richard Nuttall. “Through Manila, they will also gain access to PAL’s wider network of destinations across Asia, North America and Australia.” Flights from Delhi to Manila will operate as PR643 and will depart every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 8:15 AM and arrive at 5:00 PM. Meanwhile, the Manila–Delhi flight, PR642, will leave Manila every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:40 PM, reaching Delhi at 3:00 AM the following day. From Mumbai, PR647 will depart for Manila every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 7:15 AM and arrive at 5:00 PM. Manila–Mumbai flights will operate as PR646 every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, departing at 10:40 PM and arriving at 3:05 AM the following day. All times are local. PAL will operate both routes using its 168-seat Airbus A321neo aircraft, featuring 12 lieflat Business Class seats and 156 Economy Class seats. Through Manila, travelers arriving from Delhi and Mumbai can connect to Philippine destinations including Cebu, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo and Davao. They will also have onward options to international destinations including Los Angeles, Vancouver, Honolulu, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Tokyo Haneda and Hong Kong. Indian nationals traveling to the Philippines for tourism or business may enter the country visa-free for up to 14 days, subject to applicable entry requirements. The new Delhi and Mumbai services reinforce PAL’s role as the Philippine flag carrier— strengthening ties between India and the Philippines while connecting both countries to the world.

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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