Bartolini Air adds Tecnam aircraft to fleet: Tecnam and Bartolini Air announced the purchase of six additional Tecnam P2008JC and two P2006T NG twin-engine aircraft for Bartolini Air’s fleet expansion programme. The aircraft will be used from PPL – Private Pilot Licence – to advanced commercial pilot training such as CPL(A), IR(A) and MEP(L) as well as for integrated ab-initio commercial pilot training. Today the Polish ATO operates of 22 aircraft and with the new eight acquired, it will be a total of 30 aircraft, of which 26 are Tecnam. Bartolini Air has more than 200 cadets every year and is one of only six official Ryanair partners within the Ryanair Future Flyer Academy. Bartolini Air, which was the launch customer for the P2006T, chose Tecnam as its main aircraft supplier and partner because Tecnam today offers the most modern and efficient fleet solution, from single engine two-seaters for ab-initio to twin engine aircraft for multi-engine piston and complex ratings, covering all the needs of a modern flight school. The P2006T NG, Next Generation is the latest version of the P2006T, one of the smartest twin engine aircraft on the market today, offering unbeatable value and innovative design with a modern Garmin avionics suite, integrating all primary flight, navigation, communication and terrain data on two high-definition LCDs.
VINCI Airports signs contract for works at Lisbon Humberto Delgado airport: VINCI Airports said it has signed a contract for works at Lisbon Humberto Delgado airport. The deal involves a €233 million investment to improve the airport’s quality of service, operations, customer experience and carbon footprint. This is the largest capex contract since VINCI Airports invested in ANA. The works are expected to be completed by 2027. This investment plan involves: The expansion of Terminal 1 with a new 33,000 sq. metre South Pier, designed with high-environmental-performance objectives; The construction of 10 boarding bridges and 12 aircraft parking stands; The remodelling of the existing Central Pier and the connection to the future South Pier; The redesign of the entire South bus gates. The Terminal 1 upgrade will: Enhance passenger comfort by enlarging the terminal and boarding in direct contact with the terminal and providing direct access to aircrafts; Improve airport operational performance; Reduce the airport’s carbon footprint with high-energy-performance infrastructure and less vehicle traffic on the apron. This investment is part of VINCI Airports’ drive to expand connections in Portugal while upgrading the quality of service it provides for passengers. ANA has invested €120 million in the country’s airports so far in 2024.
VistaJet commits to East and South Africa: VistaJet has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to connecting the international investor community with markets in East and South Africa. This commitment was highlighted during its VistaJet East and South Africa Static Display Roadshow. Given their status as leading centres for economic development and innovation, Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Nairobi were selected as the host cities for the end-of-year Static Display Roadshow in the region. After a successful inaugural roadshow in West Africa during the second quarter of 2024, VistaJet continued to expand the company’s offering focused on Africa. VistaJet has significantly enhanced its offerings in Africa, achieving a remarkable 103% increase in New Program Hours Sold and a 29% rise in total hours flown across the continent in the first half of 2024. Commenting on VistaJet’s commitment to business in Africa, Phillippe Scalabrini, VistaJet’s President of Europe and Africa, said: “Building on VistaJet’s substantial growth in the region, the East and South Africa Roadshow is a vital part of our strategy to serve as a logistics and aviation partner that supports the success of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. VistaJet is dedicated to playing a crucial role in connecting global funding to these regions’ economic and entrepreneurial opportunities, as Africa offers significant growth potential for international ventures. We showcased our Global 7500 aircraft to link these regions with the rest of the world and facilitate unlocking this growth potential, to support the region’s economic development further.”
Air France-KLM Group and Saudia to reinforce cooperation: The Air France-KLM Group and Saudia, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) that lays the foundation for a strengthened cooperation in the fields of passenger transport and aircraft maintenance. Already partners within the SkyTeam alliance, Air France-KLM and Saudia aim to foster stronger ties in order to: Improve connectivity between their home markets of France, the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia. Under this agreement, Air France-KLM and Saudia will significantly expand their existing codeshare and interline commercial agreements, thereby providing customers with more travel options between and beyond their respective hubs. The agreement also includes initiatives to optimise operations and improve customer experience, notably through terminal co-location at key airports. Enhanced MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) cooperation, with Air France Industries KLM Engineering and Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) being awarded a firm minimum of 50% of the maintenance work on Saudia’s GE90 engines (used on Boeing 777 aircraft), including the localization of the process of module assembly and disassembly for these engines. Saudia will also consider AFI KLM E&M for all future key MRO sourcing processes.
Norwegian Air Shuttle extends deal with Lufthansa Technik: Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA has extended its collaboration with Lufthansa Technik for an additional five years. This agreement covers the overhaul of Norwegian’s fleet of over 80 Boeing 737NG and 737MAX aircraft. The services will be delivered under a Base Maintenance Services contract at Lufthansa Technik’s Budapest facility. The renewed contract will commence on August 1, 2025, and includes a total of 120 scheduled maintenance checks. Through this agreement, Norwegian will benefit from guaranteed slot availability for maintenance layovers and a tailored commercial performance package designed to meet the airline’s specific operational needs. Lufthansa Technik Budapest, one of five Lufthansa Technik overhaul locations in Europe, will provide the services. In addition, Norwegian will have access to Lufthansa Technik’s entire overhaul network for any unscheduled or additional maintenance needs. Lufthansa Technik and Norwegian have enjoyed a successful business relationship for 17 years. The cooperation began with a contract for component services and later expanded to include the maintenance of wheels and brakes, as well as engine overhauls for CFM56-7B engines. Since 2012, Lufthansa Technik has been overhauling Norwegian’s Boeing 737NG aircraft.
IATA Expands Presence in United Arab Emirates: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has opened an expanded office in Abu Dhabi featuring a new training centre. This demonstrates IATA’s commitment to supporting the Middle East’s growing aviation sector and fostering the next generation of industry professionals. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) General Civil Aviation Authority, officially opened the facility, joined by the first cohort of trainees and IATA representatives. “The expansion of IATA’s presence in the UAE with a new training centre reinforces the country’s position as a global aviation hub. Having a key international organization like IATA expand its footprint here also demonstrates the attractiveness of Abu Dhabi and its value proposition as a preferred destination for global organisations,” said H.E. Al Suwaidi. Taking advantage of the UAE’s strategic location and excellent connectivity, IATA’s Abu Dhabi office will provide services to airlines, trainees, strategic partners and governments in the Middle East and beyond. “We are proud to expand our presence in the UAE, with our office in Abu Dhabi. Over the past 18 Months our team in Abu Dhabi has grown by 140%. By expanding our physical presence in this global aviation hub, we will be able to support our airline members, trainees from across the aviation value chain and the industry’s many stakeholders more efficiently. Our aim is to facilitate the further successful growth of the region’s aviation sector, which is a strategic contributor to the region’s social and economic development,” said Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East.
Heart Aerospace to conduct first fully electric flight: Heart Aerospace, the Swedish hybrid -electric airplane maker, plans to conduct the first fully electric experimental flight of its demonstrator airplane, Heart Experimental 1 (Heart X1), at upstate New York’s Plattsburgh International Airport in 2025. The first experimental flight of Heart X1, which is set to become the largest fully electric aircraft ever to fly, marks a critical milestone in Heart Aerospace’s development of its 30-seat hybrid-electric regional passenger aircraft, the ES-30. With an all-electric, zero-emissions range of 200 kilometres and an extended hybrid range of 400 kilometres, the ES-30 promises unmatched sustainability and efficiency on short-haul routes. The initial experimental flight of the Heart X1 demonstrator is designed to validate the capabilities of Heart’s innovative electric propulsion technology. Plattsburgh International Airport was chosen for its location in the Champlain Valley, an emerging hub for next-generation transportation. With expansive airfield infrastructure, low air traffic density, and strong community support for transportation technology initiatives, the airport offers an ideal environment for Heart Aerospace’s experimental flight.
Stratos delivers two A320ceos to Turkish Airlines: Stratos, a leading aircraft investment specialist and asset manager, announced the delivery of two A320ceos on long-term operating lease to Turkish Airlines in support of the airline’s fleet expansion. Camille Pousseur, Marketing Director at Stratos mentioned: “The Stratos team is delighted to have placed this package of aircraft with Turkish Airlines to further support their fleet growth and we look forward to continuing our successful and highly collaborative relationship with this esteemed carrier.” Turkish Airlines SVP of Investment Management Murat Baş stated: “At Turkish Airlines, our focus on fleet expansion is integral to meeting the growing demands of our global network. We are pleased with our collaboration with Stratos through these new additions, enhancing our operational capabilities and reinforcing our commitment to providing our guests with a seamless and reliable travel experience.”
Dnata earns IATA environmental management certification: Dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, has become the first ground handler in Europe to receive the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) environmental management certification. The recognition highlights the company’s dedication to implementing robust sustainability initiatives. IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) is a certification programme developed to independently assess the commitment of aviation stakeholders such as airlines, airports, cargo handling facilities, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance. IATA’s comprehensive evaluation rigorously assessed dnata’s sustainability practices and efforts across its extensive operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). Jan van Anrooy, Managing Director, dnata Netherlands, said: “We are proud to be the first ground handler to earn the prestigious IEnvA certification in Europe. This accomplishment reflects our team’s dedication to environmental efficiency and our consistent efforts to contribute to dnata’s global decarbonisation journey. We will continue investing in infrastructure, equipment and process improvement to further reduce our environmental footprint.”
SITA, IDEMIA Public Security partner on computer vision: Following the recent announcement of their collaboration to enhance digital travel credentials and biometric solutions in border management, SITA and IDEMIA Public Security are expanding their partnership to tackle key challenges in baggage handling and airport operations. Leveraging IDEMIA’s expertise in computer vision, combined with SITA’s expertise in baggage processing, improves operational efficiency and provides a smoother experience for both travellers and airlines. With global air travel recovering strongly – passenger numbers soared to 5.2 billion in 2023, surpassing 2019 levels according to the SITA Baggage IT Insights 2024 report – the need for efficient baggage handling is more pressing than ever. Despite this surge, the industry has made remarkable progress. The baggage mishandling rate decreased from 7.6 to 6.9 per 1,000 passengers in 2023, showing a 9.2% year-on-year improvement, thanks to investments in technology as highlighted in the report. This collaboration between SITA and IDEMIA will drive further advancements by integrating computer vision into baggage processes, allowing for better tracking of luggage from check-in to final destination. This enhanced tracking reduces the risk of lost or delayed luggage, giving passengers better visibility and control over their baggage journey, a growing demand from travellers.
FAA and EASA certify CFM Leap HPT hardware: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency certified updated high-pressure turbine (HPT) hardware durability kit for the CFM LEAP-1A engines that power Airbus A320neo family aircraft. The durability kit was designed to increase time on wing, especially in hot and harsh environments, and includes the HPT stage 1 blade, stage 1 nozzle, and forward inner nozzle support. To ensure that the improvements would address durability challenges in harsh environments, CFM worked with a team of geologists to engineer dust that mimicked what engines experience in these environments around the world. Using a proprietary dust ingestion system, the company was able to replicate HPT blade wear that operators were seeing in the field. This then allowed CFM to design, test, and validate improvements to increase the durability and time on wing of these parts. The CFM LEAP engine family delivers 15 to 20 percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, as well as a significant improvement in noise, compared to previous generation engines. With more than 3,500 LEAP-powered aircraft in service, the engine has allowed CFM customers to avoid more than 40 million tons of CO2 emissions.
Flyco implements integrated EBT and TMS systems at Air Explore: Air Explore has introduced an integrated training framework from Flyco Training Solutions, combining an Evidence-Based Training (EBT) system and a Training Management System (TMS). This initiative aims to support training oversight, pilot development, and administrative efficiency using digital tools. The EBT system incorporates a data-driven methodology to evaluate crew performance and identify skill gaps. It includes an advanced grading mechanism with customisable scales for assessing various e-forms, offering a structured way to address training needs and focus on key performance areas. The TMS complements the EBT system by providing tools for: Real-time Training Progress Tracking to monitor individual and team performance; Document Management for centralised access to training materials; Notifications and Reminders to manage deadlines and events; Scheduling Management for organising training activities; Reporting and Analytics to support decision-making with detailed performance insights.
Icelandair becomes Airbus operator with the A321LR: Icelandair, based in Keflavik, has taken delivery of its first Airbus aircraft. The A321LR marks the first step in the airline’s fleet renewal making it the newest Airbus operator. The aircraft is the first of four to be leased from SMBC Aviation Capital Limited. The airline will also take delivery of 13 A321XLRs. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, Icelandair’s A321LR comprises 187 seats in a two-class configuration (22 Business and 165 Economy Class seats). The aircraft’s Airspace cabin features XL bins, providing 60% more stowage space compared to previous generation aircraft for a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew alike. In addition, Icelandair passengers will benefit from advanced gate to gate connectivity, next generation inflight entertainment and the latest lighting system enhancing well-being and the overall passenger experience on board. The A321LR is ideally suited to transatlantic routes, providing extended range with an aircraft capable of flying routes up to 4,000 nautical miles. The A321LR’s cutting-edge technology and advanced fuel efficiency delivers at least 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft. In addition, as with all Airbus aircraft, the A321neo aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), increasing to up to 100% SAF capability by 2030. Icelandair’s A321LR aircraft will support the airline’s sustainability efforts, in regard to operational efficiency while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.
JAL and NEC test AI-powered baggage solution: Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL) and NEC Corporation (NEC) have jointly conducted a trial of the “NEC Baggage Counting Solution” that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically analyse the quantity and types of carry-on baggage at boarding gates. The solution enables measures to be taken for carry-on baggage, which is one of the causes of flight delays, aiming to improve on-time performance and ensure smooth boarding. Based on the results of this trial, JAL is exploring methods for implementing the solution in the future. Conducted from April to September 2024 at Boarding Gate 13 in Terminal 1 of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), the trial involved evaluating the solution’s analysis accuracy (detection and classification accuracy) and its alert timing for exceeding overhead storage limits to determine its effectiveness. The solution enabled the collection and analysis of data on baggage amounts and alert frequency. This data can be used to develop concrete measures to prevent departure delays due to baggage storage and the reloading of baggage in the cargo compartment. Going forward, JAL will continue utilising digital technology to ensure smoother boarding, improve punctuality, and optimize the overall customer experience.
Christchurch Airport expands reach in China: Christchurch Airport is ramping up its digital tourism presence in China through the relaunch of its “SOUTH” store on Fliggy, China’s premier online travel site. SOUTH has already generated close to $5 million for the South Island economy over the past year and is set to grow further with its new site launching on 12 December. The Launch is timed to take advantage of “Double 12,” one of China’s largest online shopping events, the relaunch also aims to drive sales in the lead-up to the peak Chinese New Year holiday period. The ‘SOUTH’ store, originally launched in 2017, has seen significant growth and is now part of a newly formed joint venture between Christchurch Airport and HeartlandNZ/Fitibo. Under the direction of Shanghai-based tourism marketing specialist Mishu Song, founder of HeartlandNZ/Fitibo, recent upgrades have expanded listings to over 200 Kiwi tourism operators and introduced a completely refreshed marketing approach.” Swallow Wang, Christchurch Airport’s China market specialist said, “With help from Mishu and her team, we revamped our marketing which resulted in a surge in Chinese visitor bookings in October 2023, which carried over well into last summer season. With this growth Fliggy’s management team were also keen to support our growth plan.” A fresh new look, exclusive offers, and targeted marketing across powerful social media platforms such as WeChat and Little Redbook will be central to driving traffic to the SOUTH store. “Our redesigned SOUTH site leverages compelling graphics and a constantly refreshed lineup of special offers,” says Mishu.
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