Emirates crew trained to be future fit and A350-ready: In advance of its much-awaited Airbus A350s joining the fleet, Emirates has invested around US$48 million in full suites of cutting-edge equipment and systems to support both pilot and cabin crew training. The suites include three full flight simulators integrated with innovative pilot support systems (PSS), a fixed base training device, a cabin emergency evacuation trainer and a door trainer. This investment reflects the airline’s commitment to achieve the ultimate standards and excellence in crew training. The PSS is an industry first and was fully conceptualised inhouse by Emirates with a view to optimising the training experience. During the briefing phase, it allows trainees to carry out an interactive flight deck set-up, including building a flight plan, in a fully immersive environment. The set-up is recalled once the trainees move inside the simulator to resume their training. The PSS’ debrief mode allows the instructor to playback the recorded session to review crew performance. The airline’s first A350 full flight simulator received a level D qualification, the highest for this type of simulators, from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The initial qualification was achieved with zero findings, another remarkable feat in the simulation industry. The advanced technology not only enhances training efficiency, but also empowers pilots to confidently master the skills required for smooth operations. Emirates has ordered three full flight simulators for its A350 fleet. The second A350 simulator is currently in its onsite acceptance stage and is scheduled to receive EASA approval in November.
Noble Wings Academy invests in AL250 simulator: ALSIM announced that Noble Wings Academy, based in Poland, has selected ALSIM by purchasing an AL250 simulator. Noble Wings has been established on the Polish market for a decade and the acquisition of the AL250 fits perfectly into their development and expansion plan. The AL250 simulator addresses initial phase of training needs (PPL, CPL, IR/ME) and is SEP/MEP re–configurable simulator certified as an EASA FNPT II. In addition, it offers both classic and glass cockpit for each flight model at the simple flick of a switch. This device has been extremely well received since its creation and more than 100 of these have already been installed and are in successful operation worldwide. Michał Skowroński, CEO of Noble Wings Academy, states: “After few months of research we have decided that the ALSIM AL250 will be the best choice to cover all needs of Noble Wings Academy students. We believe that signing a purchase agreement exactly on the 10th anniversary of our ATO will be a milestone and a great foundation for our future development. We desired to be considered as the best market choice for our students, so that is why we choose the best TRAINING devices for them.”
Qatar Airways Cargo and Qatar Post sign cooperation deal: Qatar Airways Cargo and Qatar Postal Services Company (Qatar Post) signed a cooperation agreement, demonstrating a shared commitment towards enhancing their strategic partnership in postal activities and mail transportation to and from Doha. The agreement aims to efficiently meet customer needs in accordance with international postal union standards, and reflects the ongoing efforts of both parties to enhance logistical infrastructure, ensuring smooth and effective coordination in the transportation and delivery of postal shipments. It also covers competitive rates specifically designed for postal shipments transported by Qatar Airways Cargo to Qatar Post, the national provider of postal services in Qatar. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “As the world’s leading air cargo carrier, our robust fleet and expansive network enable us to meet customer needs efficiently, in-line with international standards. This strategic cooperation agreement reflects our commitment to improving logistical infrastructure, and ensuring smooth and effective coordination in delivery to and from Doha.” The collaboration with Qatar Airways Cargo is part of Qatar Post’s efforts to enhance postal and logistical services, and achieve the highest levels of customer satisfaction, particularly in the area of shipping and delivery operations. With a daily handling capacity of up to 500 tonnes, Qatar Airways Cargo ensures efficient and secure mail transportation across its extensive global network.
Challenge Group completes 767 conversion programme: Challenge Group announced the successful completion of its 767 conversion programme with the deployment of two newly converted B767-300 freighters. The newly added freighters, registered as 9H-CAD and 9H-CAH under the Maltese AOC, bring the total number of B767-300BDSF aircraft in the Group’s fleet to four. Each aircraft boasts a cargo capacity of approximately 52 tons and 400 cubic meters, with advanced features designed for air cargo operations. These enhancements include reinforced floors, wide cargo doors for large shipments, and optimized fuel efficiency, making them ideal for both short- and medium-haul routes. This additional capacity enabled the successful launch of a new service to Delhi in early October in addition to the three existing weekly frequencies to Mumbai, taking to five the weekly flights catering to India’s growing industries, including pharmaceuticals, automotive, textiles, electronics and high tech. The launch of these freighters also frees up capacity on the 747 aircraft, allowing for increased long-haul destinations and enhanced connectivity between Europe, the Far East and the US. “The introduction of these two B767-300 freighters is a significant step forward in Challenge Group’s strategic expansion,” said Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer. “Their versatility and fuel efficiency empower us to increase flight frequencies, enhance flexibility for charter operations, and explore new market opportunities. These aircraft will help meet the rising demand for complex verticals and e-commerce, reinforcing Challenge Group’s leadership in the air cargo industry.”
NAVBLUE launches Mission+ DOC Manager: NAVBLUE announced the launch of Mission+ DOC Manager, its new cloud-based solution to manage and customise Airbus and/or company manuals, bringing more efficiency in the documentation management process. Mission+ DOC Manager is the NAVBLUE Documentation Management Tool that offers major benefits for airlines. Mission+ DOC Manager launch customers include Qatar Airways, China Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Tibet Airlines, Japan Airlines and Aer Lingus. Marc Lemeilleur, CEO of NAVBLUE, says: “At NAVBLUE, we are committed to bringing the best of data technology to our customers, continuously enhancing our range of solutions to provide them with more operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. With Mission+ DOC Manager, we aim to streamline the documentation management process, to help airlines gain time and improve their efficiency. We are grateful to the airlines who have already trusted us with this new solution and are excited to move forward with them.” According to Samuel Lai, Flight Operations Division at China Airlines: “The user-friendly interface of Mission+ DOC Manager is intuitive and responsive, and the document processing is clear, quick and reliable. The transition was smooth, thanks to NAVBLUE’s excellent team and support. They ensured our data was migrated seamlessly and provided great training. Mission+ DOC Manager has made our work so much easier.”
Fokker Services Group welcomes Red Sea Airlines: Fokker Services Group and Red Sea Airlines announced the signing of a component support program for Red Sea Airlines’ fleet of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Through this agreement, FSG will ensure the continuous operation of Red Sea’s fleet while supporting the airline’s rapid expansion, which is already well underway. Within the scope of this program, FSG will service a wide range of components, including IDGs, engine accessories, hydraulic actuators, valves, cockpit controls, instruments, and more. Hazem Soltan, Technical Services and Contract Manager at Red Sea Airlines, commented: “FSG has proven to be the reliable and flexible partner we needed to ensure component availability for our high-utilisation business model. We’re positive FSG’s support will be central to our expansion plans in the coming years”. “With the continued development of this program, we remain fully committed to driving excellence in the B737NG aftermarket, leveraging our expertise in design, production, and maintenance. We are honored to have been chosen by Red Sea Airlines as our first Egyptian partner for this platform,” said Leon Kouters, Vice President Sales & Marketing, FSG. Fokker Services Group and Airmaster also announced they have signed a component support program for Airmaster’s Boeing 737-800F aircraft. Through this agreement, FSG will ensure the continuous operation of Airmaster’s fleet while supporting the newly established airline’s rapid expansion. Within the scope of this program, FSG will service a wide range of components, including IDGs, engine accessories, hydraulic actuators, valves, cockpit controls, instruments, and more.
Ontic to expand MRO shops: Ontic is expanding into Florida with the opening of its eighth global site scheduled for early 2025. Located in Miramar, FL, this expansion comes as part of the strategic decision to create a global network of Ontic MRO Centers of Excellence focused on supporting customers of Ontic manufactured parts and systems. This network of dedicated MRO facilities will allow Ontic to meet the needs of their customers more effectively. By investing in MRO talent and focused resources, they plan to improve their existing operations while creating new capacity and setting the business up for future growth and success – across both their original equipment and MRO operations. In opening the Miramar site, Ontic will be moving its North Carolina (NC) MRO operations to Florida, allowing for focus and further expansion while providing the wider NC business with more space to grow. Thanks to growth in all areas of the business, Ontic has no planned job losses as a result of this move, with MRO teams in the US having the opportunity to relocate to Miramar or move into new manufacturing roles on their current site.
Jet Aviation breaks ground on new FBO: Jet Aviation announced that it has broken ground at its new FBO and hangar facility at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport. The facility will feature two large, private use hangars, and on-site US Customs and Border Protection. The 27-acre facility will be situated on the west side of the airfield and feature a newly constructed 8,500 square-foot FBO that will be Silver LEED certified, a ramp totalling 540,000 square feet that is able to accommodate large-cabin business jets, and a 4,800 square-foot space for dedicated on-site US Customs and Border Protection. In addition, two 20,000 square-foot, private use hangars, each with hangar office support, will be constructed. The hangars have capacity for multiple large cabin and ultra-long range business jets and will benefit from handling through the Jet Aviation FBO. Construction is underway of the FBO ramp, taxiway connections, and fuel farm. The facility will also offer sustainable aviation fuel via Jet Aviation’s global Book & Claim program, with the intention to move to a physical supply once the site is operational. The first phase of operation is scheduled to commence in Q3 2025.
Sanad, Etihad sign strategic deal: Sanad announced the sale of 16 aircraft engines to Etihad Airways (EY), the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, a landmark agreement valued at approximately AED 1.5 billion. This transaction, between two of Abu Dhabi’s foremost aviation players, underscores the emirate’s position as a global aviation hub and supports the continued expansion of Etihad Airways and the strength of the Abu Dhabi aviation ecosystem. The sale includes a range of next-generation aircraft engines that power Etihad’s modern fleet of aircraft comprising nine GEnx engines for the Boeing 787 aircraft, five GP7200 engines for the Airbus A380, one Trent XWB engine for the Airbus A350, and one V2500 engine for the Airbus A320. This transaction underscores the strong synergy between Sanad and Etihad Airways, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s aviation landscape and advancing the emirate’s strategic ambitions as the sector plays an integral role in bolstering the non-oil trade whilst driving economic growth. Mansoor Janahi, Managing Director and group CEO of Sanad highlighted the significance of the deal: “This transaction reaffirms Sanad’s long-term commitment to proactive portfolio management and optimizing our assets while strategically investing in future growth initiatives. It highlights the strength of Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector and our dedication to driving its continued growth. Our collaboration with Etihad Airways reflects the remarkable growth the airline is experiencing, and we are proud to be supporting the airline’s ambitious 2030 journey. Together, we are strengthening the synergies within Abu Dhabi’s thriving aviation ecosystem.”
Lufthansa Technik partners with KM Malta Airlines: With KM Malta Airlines, the newly founded national airline of the Maltese Islands, Lufthansa Technik welcomes another customer for LEAP-1A services. Over the next 9.5 years, the MRO provider will perform the repair and overhaul of this engine type operated by the Maltese airline on its Airbus A320neo fleet. Lufthansa Technik is currently undertaking two quick turns for KM Malta Airlines. Since the LEAP-1A engines are still at the beginning of their life cycle and most do not yet require an overhaul, so-called quick turns are performed. These shop visits address specific technical reasons for early removals, for example by changing the stage 1 blades or shrouds of the high-pressure turbine. This allows the engine to be returned to the aircraft quickly, thereby maintaining its operation until the scheduled overhaul.
RH Aero Systems unveils landing gear solution: RH Aero Systems has officially unveiled new landing gear equipment. The MLGTMULTI-2 is an advanced solution specifically designed to enhance the removal and installation operation of main landing gears on common widebody aircrafts. It is designed for the Airbus and Boeing wide-body passenger and freighter fleets. The landing gear change equipment is designed for a safer, faster and more cost-effective operation. The system offers a range of advanced features designed for safety and efficiency, it enables quick and secure trunnion disconnection thanks to its manoeuvrability and flexible design. The ergonomic handheld control panel (HMI) ensures user-friendly operation, while the MLGTMULTI-2 electrically controlled, high-precision movement provides significant advantages and ease of use compared to the traditional processes. Ground-based operation eliminates the need for cranes or on-wing work, significantly increasing safety during the process. Additionally, the system is optimized for easy transport, enabling transport on standard pallets, without requiring special handling or exceptional transport measures.
AFI KLM E&M Partners with LOT Polish Airlines: Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) announced a new partnership with LOT Polish Airlines for the support of its LEAP-1B engines. This collaboration was officially established at the MRO Europe 2024 in Barcelona and highlights AFI KLM E&M’s dedication to supporting the airline’s fleet renewal efforts. LOT operates one of the youngest fleets in Europe. It has ambitious growth plans and the number of new generation aircraft in its fleet is growing strongly. The LEAP Quick Turn support adds to a long list of services entrusted to AFI KLM E&M. Already for many years AFI KLM E&M provides component support for the Boeing 787 and 737 fleet of LOT. This LEAP-1B QT agreement is, therefore, a further expansion of a long-term partnership. AFI KLM E&M also announced the establishment of a comprehensive A320 Component Support Contract with Air Corsica, thereby strengthening an enduring partnership. This new agreement will provide extensive support for Air Corsica’s fleet of A320 aircraft, which includes A320Ceo and A320Neo models. The contract will remain in effect until December 31st, 2035, ensuring robust and reliable component support for the next decade. This new contract replaces an existing component agreement that was signed in 2013, marking another milestone in the enduring relationship between Air Corsica and AFI KLM E&M. The new contract encompasses a range of critical services designed to enhance fleet performance and operational efficiency. Component Pooling allows Air Corsica access to a shared inventory of components, ensuring availability and rapid deployment when needed. Component Repair services will maintain the highest standards of safety. The Main Base Kit Positioning in Ajaccio involves the strategic placement of essential components at Air Corsica’s main base, minimizing downtime and further enhancing operational efficiency.
Gama Aviation joins Embraer Executive Jets network: Embraer announced the expansion of its maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services network in a new partnership with Gama Aviation. The MRO located in Bournemouth, UK, will be part of the Embraer Authorized Service Center network. Gama Aviation will provide line maintenance support for customers of the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 series, as well as base maintenance for Legacy 600 and Legacy 650 aircraft located throughout Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The British company will provide scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, as well as a wide range of services like livery design, interiors, pre-purchase inspections, modifications, and avionics upgrades. “We are delighted to have been selected by as an Authorized Service Centre by Embraer who set an understandably high bar to become part of their global network. We look forward to working with customers to support their Phenom and Legacy aircraft via our base MRO capability at Bournemouth, our line stations at Farnborough and Luton, plus our country wide Mobile Support Team (MST) service,” says Paul Kinch, Managing Director, Gama Aviation MRO.
Universal Avionics enhances awareness beyond cockpit: Universal Avionics (UA) introduces a new and improved level of safety with augmented reality (AR), leveraging AI processing across product lines to enhance situational awareness and efficiency for flight operations. Universal’s newest Aperture solution intelligently fuses real-time video analysis from multiple cameras and AI-powered insights, integrated with ADS-B information, audio assistance, and other sensors, to provide a comprehensive image with visual instructions displayed directly to cockpit and head-up displays. This augmented reality experience, combined with object and speech recognition, enables new features including visual positioning, obstacle detection, taxi guidance, and traffic awareness, empowering operators to make proactive decisions with intuitive real-world information while improving pilot safety in the air and on the ground. In 2023, Universal explored new AI-powered capabilities through its internal Grand Challenge. The team developed an automatic speech recognition solution that uses an iPad or Aperture, as an embedded solution, to transform air traffic controller instructions into visual guidance displayed for pilots in the cockpit through ClearVision™ EFVS head-wearables, InSight™ flight displays, and UA FlightPartner. This results in an enhanced runway collision avoidance system that builds on ADS-B In for complete visual and voice assistance, simplifying aircraft operations and helping to prevent incursions.
CFM introduces premium MRO brand: CFM International has reaffirmed its commitment to an open maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) ecosystem for LEAP engines, ensuring that airline customers have access to a broad network of service providers. The comprehensive capabilities available from LEAP MRO providers licensed with a CFM-branded service agreement (CBSA) will now be known as “Premier MRO” providers for CFM LEAP engines. “Our commitment to an open MRO ecosystem is unwavering,” said Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International. “By introducing the Premier MRO brand, we’re giving operators a clear understanding of the extensive capabilities and technical expertise they can expect from these shops,” said Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International. Recent announcements validate the value of the open MRO ecosystem model. In the past few months, Avianca, Corendon Airlines, Guangxi Beibu Gulf Airlines and KM Malta Airlines have selected CFM Premier MRO providers to support LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B fleets. In addition, Akasa Air recently selected ST Engineering for performance restoration shop visits (PRSVs) for LEAP-1B engines.
Tecnam sells planes to Quality Fly: Tecnam announced that Quality Fly, Spain’s leading general aviation flight training organisation, has added four new Tecnam P2008JC MKII aircraft to its training fleet this year. The addition of the new Tecnam P2008 aircraft will standardize and modernize the fleet and increase operational efficiency, providing significant benefits to ATP Integrated students, including: Fleet Standardization: By transitioning to a unified fleet of Tecnam P2008 single engine piston (SEP) aircraft with glass cockpits, training times are reduced and the student learning curve is improved by over 30%. This standardisation simplifies training procedures and improves the overall flight training outcomes of Quality Fly’s ATP Integrated Program. It also makes the transition to MEP & IFR training on their Tecnam P2006 aircraft smoother. Alignment with the new ATP Integrated Program: The streamlined fleet facilitates the implementation of Quality Fly’s new innovative ATP Integrated program, which features a clear separation between theory and flight training. Increased Efficiency and Safety: A unified fleet means greater efficiency in flight operations, increasing flight safety, greater operational stability and a better training experience for Quality Fly students. All of the new Tecnam P2008 aircraft are equipped with FLARM technology, which provides real-time collision avoidance, contributing to a safer flight environment for students and instructors.
Satair, AvtechTyee form partnership: Satair and AvtechTyee, a leader in the creation of electronic systems for the aerospace industry, have signed a multi-year agreement for aftermarket spares for AvtechTyee’s Audio and Airborne Electronics product lines for aircraft. The agreement enhances Satair’s provision of aftermarket spares including Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), sub-assembly parts, and components. With Satair’s well-known reputation in the commercial aerospace aftermarket, Satair will ensure strong support for AvtechTyee’s Audio and Airborne Electronics product lines for the supply of aftermarket spares. The product lines offered through this agreement include AvtechTyee Audio products: Flight Deck Audio, Cabin Audio, SELCAL, and Airborne Electronics products: System Controllers, Panels and Indicators, Ballasts and Lighting, Flight Deck Controls.
KlasJet gets approval for 737 next-gen maintenance: KlasJet has received an extension of EASA Part 145 activity certification including Boeing 737NG (Next Generation) line maintenance. Oliver Wynam forecasts a 48,000 deficit of aircraft maintenance workers by 2027. The shortages are expected to lead to restrictions on capacity and more downtime for aircraft that cannot be maintained. Svirplys adds that by reducing dependency, the approval allowed KlasJet to handle maintenance problems quickly. “The approval will enhance the operational flexibility as we will be able to keep our fleet airworthy and address maintenance problems ourselves,” said Aivaras Svirplys, Technical Director of KlasJet. “Given the shortage of workers in the industry, the in-house capability eliminates our dependence on a limited timeline of short-staffed maintenance facilities.” KlasJet’s fleet includes aircraft modified to deliver its premium quality flight service. The fleet currently consists of eight 737-800 aircraft equipped with CFM56 engines that operate both VIP charter and ACMI operations. In addition to these next-generation aircraft, the exclusive flight experience provider also operates five 737 classics.
APOC Aviation secures multi-million flexible funding facility: APOC Aviation has secured a significant multi-faceted financing facility with Deutsche Bank AG via its transportation structured finance group. The funds will be used to expand APOC’s existing business portfolio whilst underpinning further vertical integration of future complementary solutions. The flexibility offered by Deutsche Bank enables APOC to grow exponentially in both the short and medium term. “APOC is pursuing a dynamic trajectory as the business capitalises on opportunities that have been identified for expansion. We are pursuing a strategy of controlled growth that will propel APOC into a different stratum for trading, stocking and leasing aircraft assets,” comments Gavin Simmonds, CEO. “We will be very active in the market globally, so capital backing from an international major bank with an impeccable pedigree and reputation validates our plans. At the outset, we were focused on securing a facility of appropriate size with diverse borrowing criteria across a broad portfolio and aligned to our ambitious growth strategies. We have found Deutsche Bank’s open approach to be closely aligned to APOC’s company ethos and aspirations.”
For Editorial Inquiries Contact:
Editor Matt Driskill at matt.driskill@asianaviation.com
For Advertising Inquiries Contact:
Head of Sales Kay Rolland at kay.rolland@asianaviation.com
