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Dubai, 15 September 2026: flydubai has announced the next phase of its growth strategy, expanding its fleet beyond 100 aircraft and launching a new cabin retrofit programme in September.The airline will take delivery of 11 additional aircraft in 2026, including seven Boeing 737-9 MAX and four Boeing 737-8 MAX, marking a significant step in its ongoing expansion. The planned deliveries are part of flydubai’s long-term fleet modernisation plan, replacing older aircraft while offering the airline greater flexibility to expand its network, add capacity on high-demand routes and unlock future growth opportunities. The introduction of newer-generation aircraft will also reinforce flydubai’s commitment to operating a younger, more fuel-efficient fleet, while offering customers a more consistent and refined onboard experience. Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “Growing our fleet beyond 100 aircraft is a significant milestone for flydubai and shows how far we have come. These deliveries are central to our long-term fleet strategy, providing the capacity and flexibility to support our growing operations while operating one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the skies. Our investment does not stop with the new aircraft. We remain focused on enhancing our existing fleet, ensuring our customers enjoy a seamless and elevated experience when they travel with us. Our new retrofit programme marks another significant investment in our product offering and reflects our commitment to continuously enhancing the flydubai onboard experience.” flydubai’s Boeing 737-9 MAX aircraft feature 16 Business Class and 156 Economy Class seats, compared with 10 Business Class seats on some Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft.This added premium capacity allows the airline to meet strong demand for Business Class on key international routes, capture more high-yield traffic and deploy capacity more efficiently across existing flight frequencies. In addition to expanding its fleet, flydubai will roll out the next phase of its cabin retrofit programme from September, further enhancing the onboard experience across its Boeing 737 MAX fleet. Over the next 12 months, a total of 21 aircraft currently fitted with recliner Business Class seats will be retrofitted with flydubai’s signature lie-flat seats, offering passengers greater comfort throughout their flight. The programme will also see existing overhead bins replaced with Boeing’s larger Space Bins, expanding cabin baggage capacity and ensuring a smoother boarding experience for passengers. The upgraded bins can accommodate up to six standard-sized bags, compared with four in a standard overhead bin. The new programme builds on flydubai’s previous multimillion-dollar retrofit investment, which delivered a full cabin refresh across the airline’s Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 fleet, including the introduction of lie-flat Business Class seats, new Economy Class seats and inflight entertainment. Together, these enhancements represent a major step towards greater product consistency across the carrier’s growing fleet. As new aircraft join the fleet and existing aircraft are upgraded, flydubai customers will enjoy a more comfortable and convenient journey both in the air and on the ground, underscoring the airline’s commitment to elevating the customer experience as it continues to expand its fleet and network. The fleet expansion and retrofit programme are part of flydubai’s wider investment in strengthening its future capabilities, including its onboard product, technology, training and engineering infrastructure, positioning the carrier for its next phase of growth and advancing Dubai’s development as a leading global hub for aviation, trade and tourism.  

New Delhi, 9th September 2026: SriLankan Airlines has appointed Vipul Misra as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of  the airlines with effect from 9th September 2026 onwards. He brings over two decades of aircraft engineering and aviation leadership experience. His background spans across significantly large commercial carriers including Air India, Vistara, Indigo, SpiceJet, Kingfisher Airlines, and Air Deccan. His comprehensive expertise across legacy, full-service, and low-cost carriers is expected to provide strong technical and operational direction during this interim period, as the national carrier of Sri Lanka works towards enhancing its performance and long-term sustainability.  

Hyderabad, 8th September 2026: Centrum Air of Uzbekistan has officially launched the direct flight between Hyderabad and Tashkent at an event in Hyderabad. It has the presence of senior representatives from Embassy of Uzbekistan, Centrum Air, Uzbekistan Tourism Committee, Aeroprime Group, leading travel agents, OTAs and other industry stakeholders. The new service is set to provide travellers from Hyderabad and the wider Telangana and South India market with enhanced access to Tashkent and onward travel opportunities across Uzbekistan and beyond, while creating greater opportunities for tourism, business and trade between the two markets. Speaking at the occasion, Adil Mirza, Head of Agents Division, Centrum Air, said: “The launch of our Hyderabad–Tashkent service marks an important milestone in Centrum Air’s international expansion and our commitment to the Indian market. Hyderabad is a dynamic and strategically important market with strong potential for both business and leisure travel. We are delighted to connect Hyderabad directly with Tashkent and offer travellers greater access to Uzbekistan and onward destinations. We look forward to building strong relationships with the travel trade and our partners in India as we continue to expand our presence in the country” Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director & CEO, Aeroprime Group, said: “The launch of direct Hyderabad–Tashkent connectivity marks another significant milestone in Centrum Air’s India growth story. With the launch of Hyderabad, Centrum Air will now operate seven weekly flights from India — five from Delhi and two from Hyderabad — achieved in less than a year of entering the Indian market. This rapid expansion reflects the airline’s strong confidence in the Indian market and the growing demand for connectivity between India and Central Asia. We are extremely proud to have contributed to this journey and to see Centrum Air reach this important milestone in such a short span.” The launch also highlighted the broader importance of India–Uzbekistan connectivity. H.E. the Ambassador of Uzbekistan addressed the gathering on the growing ties between India and Uzbekistan and the role of direct air connectivity in fostering tourism and trade between the two countries.    

New Delhi, September 04, 2026:  In a landmark development for India’s regional aviation sector, FLY91 has signed a firm order for 40 ATR 72-600 aircraft, marking the largest ATR order globally by any regional airline. This sets the stage for one of the most significant fleet expansions by a regional carrier in India. The landmark deal, valued at approximately $1 billion, marks a defining milestone in India’s regional aviation journey and is set to be a game-changer for regional aviation in the country. In just two and a half years since commencing operations, Goa based FLY91 has built a strong operating foundation, having operated more than 15,000 flights and close to 280 weekly flights to 12 cities, with its 13th destination set to commence later this month. From its current fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft, FLY91 is now poised for exponential expansion to more than 60 aircraft over the coming years. The landmark order for 40 aircraft will provide the scale to build a much larger regional network and connect more unserved and under served cities across the country. The order marks a defining step in FLY91’s ambition to build a dedicated regional aviation network for Connecting Bharat. This comes at a time when the Government of India is giving fresh impetus to regional connectivity through the newly announced UDAN 2.0 framework. The signing ceremony took place at Udaan Bhawan, Ministry of Civil Aviation, in New Delhi, in the presence of Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Union Minister for Civil Aviation; Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ATR, Alexis Vidal, Chief Commercial Officer, ATR, Manoj Chacko, Founder, Managing Director and CEO, FLY91 and Harsha Raghavan, Chairman, FLY91 and Managing Partner Convergent Finance, along with ministry officials and other dignitaries. The order further strengthens ATR’s presence in India, one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. With its strong fuel efficiency, lower emissions and ability to operate effectively from shorter runways, the ATR 72-600 is the perfect aircraft for regional flying in India. The Minister for Civil Aviation, said, “Regional connectivity is a fundamental pillar of India’s aviation growth story, and bridging smaller cities with major economic hubs remains a national priority. The Government’s Rs.28,840 crore investment under the UDAN 2.0 framework reflects our strong commitment to expanding regional air connectivity and bringing more tier 2 and tier 3 cities into the national economic mainstream. FLY91’s track record and its landmark fleet commitment reflects the confidence that India’s aviation sector continues to inspire, and investments of this scale in regional capacity will play a vital role in translating this vision into reality.” Manoj Chacko, Founder, Managing Director and CEO, FLY91, said, “FLY91 was built on a singular conviction that India needs a dedicated regional airline focused on connecting emerging cities directly and efficiently. We have grown steadily and consistently since our launch, and this 40-aircraft order becomes the foundation for our next chapter. Having operated more than 15,000 flights in just two and a half years, we have built the operating experience and foundation to now scale significantly. Together with ATR, we are building the regional aviation network that Bharat deserves, one that unlocks opportunity, strengthens local economies, and truly keeps Bharat Unbound.” Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer, ATR, said, “We are incredibly proud that FLY91 has chosen ATR to support this new phase of its development. This expansion aligns closely with the Indian Government’s ambition to strengthen regional connectivity through UDAN, bringing affordable and reliable air transport to underserved communities. The ATR 72-600 combines unmatched economics, efficiency and reliability, enabling airlines to offer affordable fares while connecting millions of passengers to opportunities across India.” Harsha Raghavan, Chairman, FLY91 and Managing Partner, Convergent Finance, said: “As a founding partner of FLY91 and its lead investor, we have believed from the outset in the convergence of two powerful opportunities: India’s growth story and the potential of regional aviation. This 40-aircraft order is a defining milestone for FLY91 and provides the platform to scale our vision over the coming years. We believe regional connectivity will be a critical enabler of India’s next phase of growth, linking emerging economic centres, businesses and communities across the country.” Since commencing commercial operations, FLY91 has pursued steady and measured growth as a pure-play regional carrier. In just two and a half years, the airline has operated more than 15,000 flights and currently operates close to 280 weekly flights across 12 destinations. Its 13th destination is scheduled to commence later this month. The airline currently operates a fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft across its regional network.

Wichita, Kan. Aug. 31, 2026: Today, Brian Rohloff assumes the role of president & CEO at Textron Aviation, bringing with him 29 years of experience across the company. Rohloff most recently served as the leader of the company’s broad Global Customer Support organization, with additional roles that span Manufacturing, Parts, Sales and Finance, giving him a broad perspective on the people, products and customer relationships that define Textron Aviation. His experience across the business has shaped his understanding of how decisions made throughout the company affect the employees who build and support its products and the customers who depend on them. As he leads the company into its next chapter, that perspective provides continuity while reinforcing a continued focus on employees, customers and operational excellence. Rohloff’s connection to the company’s aviation heritage began long before his career. Growing up just east of Textron Aviation’s east campus in Wichita, he remembers waking to the sound of Beechcraft aircraft engine run-ups from the nearby campus. He later joined Cessna Aircraft Company and went on to work alongside teams responsible for building, delivering and supporting aircraft around the world. Rohloff’s career has taken him from Finance and Manufacturing leadership to Sales and Global Customer Support, giving him experience across the lifecycle of the company’s products and customer relationships. Among his formative assignments was helping start the Citation CJ4 production line in 2009, a role that deepened his appreciation for the expertise required to bring an aircraft from the production line to the customer. That broad perspective will inform how he listens, asks questions and works across the business as Textron Aviation continues building on its strong foundation. “As a leader, I strive to be connected, curious and accountable,” Rohloff said. “Accountability starts with me and making sure I deliver what I say I am going to deliver. When we understand the mission and what is expected of us, we can deliver greater value to our customers.” As he begins his tenure, Rohloff’s immediate focus is staying connected to the people closest to the work and the customers who rely on Textron Aviation and its Cessna and Beechcraft brands. Through time in manufacturing facilities, service centers and conversations with customers around the world, he intends to listen, learn and remain close to the experiences shaping the business. “I want people to know they can expect me to be accessible, engaged and committed to listening,” Rohloff said. “Our success has always started with great people, strong customer relationships and a dedication to doing things the right way. Those principles will continue to guide me as we build on the company’s strong foundation together.”

Delhi, 26th August 2026: Air India and Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines have announced new interline partnership to significantly enhance seamless travel convenience and strengthen network connectivity between India, Bhutan and beyond. The partnership enables passengers to benefit from a single-ticket itinerary combining Air India and Drukair flights, ensuring a seamless end-to-end travel experience. It offers coordinated baggage and passenger through transfer to the final destination, delivering a seamless travel experience via Air India’s hub at Delhi – Indira Gandhi International Airport. Passengers will also benefit from competitive interline fares, providing enhanced flexibility, improved connectivity, and greater overall value. The partnership enables Air India guests to seamlessly travel to Paro, via Delhi from across Air India’s expanding international network. It also provides convenient onward connections within Bhutan, from Paro to Bumthang, Gelephu, and Yonphula.With this partnership, Air India offers seamless connectivity to nearly all countries in the SAARC region through its own or partner network. Reciprocally, Drukair passengers gain direct access via Delhi, Guwahati, and Kolkata to Air India’s extensive domestic network, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Kochi, as well as a wide range of major international destinations such as Paris Charles de Gaulle, Colombo, Newark, Frankfurt, New York (JFK), London (Heathrow), Melbourne, San Francisco, Sydney, Toronto Pearson, and Vancouver. Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said, “Our partnership with Drukair reinforces our commitment to strengthening connectivity across the SAARC region, which we consider our extended home market. Bhutan is a valued part of this region, and we are happy to enable easy access to Bhutan for our guests and look forward to welcoming Drukair’s passengers onto Air India’s extensive domestic and global network. Tandi Wangchuk, Chief Executive Officer of Drukair, said, “This partnership marks a significant milestone for Drukair as we continue to strengthen our global connectivity and enhance the travel experience for our passengers. Through this interline partnership with Air India, our customers will benefit from seamless journeys, expanded access to key international markets, and improved connectivity across India and beyond.” This partnership is expected to further support tourism and business travel, while offering passengers greater accessibility, convenience, and value.

Tech & Taste Gala marks a new era in aviation digital transformation with launch of integrated software ecosystem and strategic JMB aircraft partnership in India  Gurugram, 25th  August 2026: The aviation industry witnessed a defining moment as AirFleet Managers and Aviatrics Global unveiled a powerful new vision for the future of aviation asset management, technical operations, records intelligence, and aircraft lifecycle management during the highly anticipated Tech & Taste Gala 2026. The event had the presence of top aviation leaders, lessors, operators, MROs, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders to witness what many described as a significant leap toward a fully connected aviation ecosystem. The event also marked the official launch of an integrated aviation software suite comprising WingsVault, AFM DARTS, TRACK, SmartAviaHub, and AirRack – a disruptive integrated software suite designed to transform how aviation organisations manage aircraft assets, technical records, compliance, maintenance activities, project execution, and operational intelligence. At the event, the group also announced its strategic partnership for Sales & Support for India with JMB Aircraft,further strengthening its commitment towards advancing aviation capabilities through technology, innovation, and global collaboration. From Fragmented Systems to a Connected Aviation Ecosystem For decades, aviation organizations have relied on disconnected software systems, spreadsheets, emails, physical records, and manual workflows to manage aircraft throughout their lifecycle. While aircraft technology has evolved dramatically, many back-office and technical management processes have remained fragmented.The newly launched software ecosystem aims to change that. Built by aviation professionals with extensive experience in asset management, lease transitions, aircraft records, CAMO operations, and technical consultancy, the platform creates a single digital environment where every stage of an aircraft’s lifecycle can be managed seamlessly. The launch represents AirFleet Managers’ continued commitment towards modernising aviation asset management through technology-driven solutions. The company has significantly established itself as a trusted partner for aircraft technical asset management, records digitisation, lease transitions, inspections, CAMO support, and engine management services across global aviation markets. The Software Suite Powering the Future WingsVault: Reimagining Aircraft Technical Records Aircraft records are often described as the “DNA of an aircraft.” Yet many organizations still struggle with millions of pages of technical documentation spread across multiple repositories. WingsVault introduces a new approach to aircraft records management by creating a secure digital environment where records become searchable, accessible, and actionable in real time. By combining advanced indexing, intelligent search capabilities, and centralised document management, WingsVault aims to significantly reduce the time required to locate critical technical information while improving compliance oversight and decision-making. For lessors, operators, and financiers, this translates into faster transactions, reduced risk, and improved asset visibility. DARTS: Bringing Real-Time Control to Complex Projects Aircraft deliveries, redeliveries, maintenance events, and lease transitions often involve thousands of action items across multiple stakeholders. AFM DARTS (Discrepancies and Rectification Tracking System) is being developed to bring structure, transparency, and accountability to these complex projects. The platform enables teams to track discrepancies, monitor rectification progress, assign responsibilities, and maintain real-time visibility across all project activities. By replacing fragmented communication channels with a centralised digital workflow, DARTS empowers aviation teams to make faster decisions and improve project execution. TRACK: The Digital Backbone for Airworthiness Management Continuing Airworthiness Management requires precision, regulatory compliance, and complete operational visibility. AFM TRACK delivers a centralised environment for managing maintenance planning, aircraft status monitoring, compliance requirements, and operational oversight. The solution helps organizations streamline CAMO activities while maintaining confidence that critical maintenance and regulatory obligations are being effectively monitored and managed. SmartAviaHub: Turning Aviation Data into Intelligence Modern aviation generates enormous amounts of operational and technical data.The challenge has never been collecting information – it has been transforming information into meaningful insights. SmartAviaHub serves as the intelligence layer of the ecosystem, consolidating information from multiple sources and presenting it through powerful dashboards, analytics, and reporting tools. The result is faster decision-making, improved operational visibility, and enhanced strategic planning for aviation stakeholders. AirRack: Bringing Order to Aviation Records Warehousing Physical records continue to play an important role in aviation compliance and asset management. AirRack addresses a frequently overlooked challenge: the efficient storage, tracking, and retrieval of aviation records. Designed specifically for aviation warehouses and records facilities, AirRack enables organizations to manage inventory across multiple locations while maintaining complete traceability and accountability. By digitising warehouse operations and integrating them with the broader software ecosystem, AirRack bridges the gap between physical and digital records management. A Paradigm Shift for the Aviation Industry What makes this launch particularly significant is not the introduction of individual software products, but the creation of an interconnected ecosystem.Traditionally, aviation organizations have been forced to operate across multiple standalone platforms.The newly launched suite creates a unified environment where records, maintenance data, project activities, compliance requirements, and operational intelligence work together seamlessly. Industry experts attending the event noted that this integrated approach reflects the direction in which global aviation technology is rapidly evolving, with increasing emphasis on digitalisation, operational efficiency, and data-driven decision-making. Digital transformation initiatives across aviation continue to focus on reducing paperwork, improving compliance visibility, and enhancing operational efficiency through connected technologies. Strengthening Global Aviation Through Strategic Partnerships The evening’s momentum continued with the announcement of a strategic collaboration with JMB Aircraft, a partnership expected to unlock new opportunities across aircraft operations, technology adoption, and aviation business development.The collaboration reflects a shared vision of advancing aviation through innovation, operational excellence, and customer-focused solutions.As aviation enters a new era shaped by digital transformation, sustainability initiatives, and increasingly complex asset management requirements, strategic partnerships such as these are expected to play a critical role in accelerating industry progress. More Than a Product Launch The Tech & Taste Gala was more than an unveiling of software platforms. It was a statement of intent. A declaration that the future of aviation will be built on connected systems, intelligent data, streamlined processes, and collaborative innovation. For airlines, lessors, MROs, investors, financiers, and technical managers, the launch signals the arrival of a new generation of aviation technology – one designed not merely to digitize existing processes, but to fundamentally transform how aviation assets are managed,

Doha, 21st August 2026: Qatar Airways has become the first airline to operate Starlink-equipped Boeing 787-9 aircraft, globally. The carrier has also completed Starlink rollout across its Boeing 787-8 sub-fleet in seven months, bringing the total number of its Starlink-equipped widebody aircraft to 150. Qatar Airways remains on track to complete the Starlink rollout across its Boeing 787 fleet by the end of 2026. The latest achievement builds on Qatar Airways’ record-breaking completion of the Boeing 777 programme in nine months and the Airbus A350 programme in eight months. The airline now operates the world’s first and largest Starlink-equipped Boeing 777, Airbus A350, and Boeing 787 fleets. By building a Starlink-connected journey at a scale unmatched by any other widebody operator, Qatar Airways is bringing passengers closer to a future where travelling no longer means stepping away from the digital world. Every new Starlink-equipped aircraft extends that experience to more passengers, offering them greater freedom over how they spend their time onboard. Whether they want to work, stay connected with loved ones or simply relax, Starlink Wi-Fi speeds of up to 500 Mbps allows the cabin to become whatever passengers need it to be at 35,000 feet. Qatar Airways was the first airline to globally offer Starlink onboard long-haul and ultra-long-haul routes across six continents. With free of charge, gate-to-gate* Starlink Wi-Fi becoming available on more journeys across the airline’s global network, Qatar Airways is keeping passengers connected to what matters most while flying to the Americas and Australasia**, as well as key gateways across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Since launching Starlink connectivity onboard in October 2024, more than 23 million passengers have connected to the fastest Wi-Fi in the sky across over 86,000 Qatar Airways flights. As the fastest and most ambitious Starlink widebody installation programme in aviation history surpasses 83 per cent completion, Qatar Airways continues to lead in innovation and offer enhanced value to its passengers. With up to 323 Starlink-flights operating daily, the airline is making access to fast, seamless onboard connectivity an increasingly familiar part of its global passenger experience.  

Oman, 20th August 2026: The low cost carrier of Oman, SalamAir has announced the appointment of Eng. Yaqoob bin Saif bin Hamoud Al Kiyumi as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 October 2026. The appointment marks a new chapter in SalamAir’s journey as the airline continues to build on its achievements and advance its strategic priorities, with a focus on sustainable growth, operational excellence, enhanced customer experience, and strengthening its role within Oman’s aviation sector. On this occasion, the Board of Directors of SalamAir extended appreciation to Mr. Adrian Hamilton-Manns for his leadership, dedication, and valuable contributions during his tenure as Chief Executive Officer. The Board said: It warmly welcomes Eng. Yaqoob Al Kiyumi and looks forward to working with him as he leads SalamAir into its next phase of development. Building on the strong foundations and achievements of the airline, his leadership will support SalamAir’s continued growth and its commitment to providing affordable and accessible air travel, while strengthening connectivity between Oman and the world. SalamAir remains committed to its long-term vision and to contributing to the development of Oman’s aviation and tourism sectors in alignment with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. SalamAir operates a modern fleet of 18 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft, serving more than 40 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe, with over 90 daily flights. #salamair #omanvision2040 #lcc #newceo

OBERPFAFFENHOFEN, 18 August, 2026: In September 2026, General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS) will put a major focus on Africa. With two trade show appearances, the German aircraft manufacturer is highlighting the strategic importance of the African continent for the Do228 NXT. The company will exhibit at El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt (September 8-10, 2026) and the Africa Aerospace & Defence (AAD) Expo in South Africa (September 16-20, 2026). Strategic Focus on High-Potential Market By focusing on the second-largest continent, GA-ATS underscores the importance of Africa and the Middle East as a large and growing market for the new Do228 NXT turboprop aircraft. In Africa, the Do228 has a long and proven operational history with over 30 different operators in nearly 20 different countries. To this day, the Do228 serves as a vital platform for connecting remote areas, landing at unpaved airfields, STOL operations and conducting demanding operations under harsh conditions. With the new Do228 NXT, this success story continues. GA-ATS has developed a modern and reliable aircraft that is ideally suited to the operational requirements in Africa. The Do228 NXT is capable of performing passenger and cargo transport missions, border surveillance operations, search and rescue missions, medical evacuations and reconnaissance flights. This offers operators the key advantage of being able to carry out multiple missions with a single aircraft. First trade Show Appearances in Egypt and South Africa In September 2026, the German aircraft manufacturer will make its debut at trade shows in Africa – with two appearances within a month. First, the Do228 NXT Demonstrator aircraft will be on static display at the El Alamein International Airshow (September 8-10, 2026) at El Alamein International Airport in Egypt. This will mark the first time the aircraft appears on static display outside of Europe, after it had already generated significant interest among customers, delegations and industry professionals at ILA Berlin 2026 and Farnborough International Airshow. Just one week later, GA-ATS will have a large booth at the Africa Aerospace & Defence (AAD) Expo in South Africa (September 16-20, 2026). The company will be located in Hangar 1 at Booth 1CW6. The two appearances at international trade shows in Africa mark the beginning of a broader strategic focus on the continent, where the new Do228 NXT aircraft has significant market opportunities and enormous potential for deployment.