Jets, Tech, And Green Goals

The key themes at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 revolved around innovation and sustainability. Sizeable aircraft orders, advancements in eVTOL technology, and a strong commitment to environmental goals underscore an industry that is not only rebounding from past challenges but also setting the stage for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future, reports ATUL CHANDRA.

FREIGHT IN FLIGHT

In 2023, Indian airports handled over 3.15 million metric tonnes of cargo, with international freight dominating. As the sector aims to meet the government's ambitious annual target of 10 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2030, this goal will require dedicated freighter aircraft, technological integration, infrastructure development, and regulatory improvements, among other things. By JAIDEEP MIRCHANDANI, Chairman, Sky One

ELEVATING PASSENGER EXPERIENCES

Panasonic Avionics Corporation is setting new standards in in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) with the launch of its state-of-the-art software design and development facility in Pune, highlights

CAUGHT IN PAPER JAM

Despite rapid digital advancements in passenger air travel with the airline market expected to surpass $35 billion by end of this decade, the air cargo industry remains bogged down by outdated legacy systems, impeding progress in efficiency and real-time tracking. A special report by

PITCHING FOR SUPPORT

India's air cargo industry is gearing up for a major transformation, aiming to nearly triple its capacity by 2030. Current infrastructure handles about 6.5 million tonnes, but meeting future goals will require significant investments to expand capacity, streamline operations, and adopt cutting-edge technologies. Industry leaders at a recent ACFI Annual Conclave emphasised the need for strong government support to overcome challenges, urging policymakers to address operational constraints and improve connectivity, reports

BATTLE FOR THE SKIES

As India's international air traffic experiences significant growth over the past few decades, the competition between Air India and IndiGo intensifies. Vistara's merger within Air India and the significant aircraft orders position the combined entity as a formidable player, while IndiGo's ambitious expansion plans and international focus set the stage for a competitive future, analyses

"We Aim to Bridge the Training Gap in Indian Aviation"

In a candid conversation with CRUISING HEIGHTS, KHUSHBEG JATTANA, General Manager India of Simaero, discusses the strategic timing of Simaero's entry into the Indian aviation market. He addresses the challenges posed by existing pilot training programmes from major airlines like Air India and IndiGo, and elaborates on Simaero's plans to complement these efforts with state-of-the-art training solutions. Jattana also sheds light on the potential growth in the South Asian region and the company's vision for the future.

POWERING UP

Urban Air Mobility providers are accelerating their eVTOL development programmes, reports

Transforming Air Traffic Control Training: CAE's Cutting-Edge Approach

In this interview, MARIE-CHRISTINE CLOUTIER, CAE's Vice-President of Performance, Strategy, and Marketing, discusses CAE's air traffic control training program. Highlighting strategic partnerships, advanced technologies, and global initiatives, the interview reveals how CAE addresses the growing demand for skilled air traffic controllers and flight service specialists. From their dedicated Montreal facility to expanding efforts across the globe, CAE is committed to providing tailored, state-of-the-art training solutions for the aviation industry's future.

POWERING A GREEN FUTURE

FIA 2024 witnessed a growing order book for aircraft engine manufacturers and provided important insights into the development of sustainable powerplants.

Vistara And Air India: The Merger Ahead

The merger of Vistara with Air India, is set for completion by March 2025. This merger within the Tata group aims to consolidate Indian aviation, bringing significant changes and challenges for customers and the industry. How will these changes unfold, AMEYA JOSHI analyses.

Skytrax Awards: Qatar Airways soars to top

In a stunning repeat performance, Qatar Airways once again soared to the top of the aviation industry, clinching its position in the competition for the title of World's Best Airline for an unprecedented eighth time.

A PARTNERSHIP FOR THE AGES

CFM International is entering its 50th year of operations and is now the dominant player in the Indian aeroengine market, as detailed in a report by ATUL CHANDRA.

A SHOW OF INTENT

The Farnborough International Airshow will be a showcase of the global recovery in air travel and the industry's sustainability focus, special report by MIKE RAJKUMAR

CHARTING THROUGH HEADWINDS

The emerging airports of Noida and Navi Mumbai are expected to redefine India's flight path, aligning with the nation's aspirations to connect, thrive, and soar in the skies. However, several critical challenges threaten the success of this multi-airport model, including inadequate forward planning, connectivity issues, and concerns over commercial viability. An in-depth report by VISHAL DUGGAL.

EMERGING OPPORTUNITY

IndiGo is looking for more regional transport aircraft, will it continue with ATR or opt for jet powered alternatives. A special report by ATUL CHANDRA.

INDIA'S MRO SECTOR: FIXING THE FLAWS

As the Indian MRO industry gears up for rapid growth, bolstered by a booming aviation market, it is imperative to address several challenges as well to build a strong, self-reliant ecosystem.

FRESH FACES, NEW BEGINNINGS: ADDRESSING INDIA'S CIVIL AVIATION CHALLENGES

The recent reshuffle in India's Civil Aviation Ministry brings new, young leaders tasked with tackling long-standing and emerging challenges. Will this fresh leadership rejuvenate the ministry and drive growth in the aviation sector will be keenly watched. They face the critical task of improving infrastructure, addressing manpower shortages, reducing operational costs, and enhancing regional connectivity, explains AMEYA JOSHI

DELHI LAUNCHES FTI-TTP: BIOMETRIC KIOSKS TO SPEED IMMIGRATION

Delhi airport launches Trusted Traveller Programme it is transformative in nature and will completely overall the process of immigration and check-in at India's busiest and largest airport.

India's space economy set to soar

India's burgeoning space economy could see a substantial increase in its global share by 2040. At present, India's space sector contributes a modest $8 billion to the overall cake.

JettWings leads the way in UDAN 5.3

JettWings Airways has emerged as a frontrunner in the aviation industry, solidifying its position as a leading private operator under the UDAN RCS 5.3 scheme.

Sock drying to underwear adventures: Laundry tales at 30,000 feet

Picture this: you're settled into your first-class seat, ready for a smooth and luxurious flight with United Airlines. But as you glance around, you notice something that makes you do a double-take.

PLETHORA OF AIR TRAVEL ACTIVITY IN THE INDIAN SKIES

The Northern Summer schedule for 2024 took off on March 31, 2024, ushering in a rush of air travel activity. With DGCA's seal of approval on 24,275 weekly departures, the skies buzzed with an average of 3,467 flights daily. However, on the inaugural day, airlines only managed to execute 3,035 scheduled domestic flights, representing a modest 87.5 per cent of the approved schedule. Delving into the nuances of this aviation landscape, an exclusive analysis by aviation analytics company Cirium unveils fascinating insights into the longest and shortest flights crisscrossing the Indian skies.

Agnibaan SOrTeD rocket launch postponed again

Chennai-based space start-up Agnikul Cosmos called off the maiden launch of its 3D-printed, semi-cryogenic Agnibaan rocket about 129 seconds before lift-off citing communication in the onboard hardware.

Pushpak RLV-TD successfully lands autonomously

ISRO achieved another significant milestone in reusable launch vehicle (RLV) technology with the successful landing of Pushpak (RLV-TD), the winged vehicle, autonomously on the runway.

TIME FOR CREDIBLE ROTARY-WING CAPABILITIES

With tactical-level challenges looming in India’s neighbourhood, it is time for the Indian armed forces to rapidly brush up on rotorcraft capabilities. A Special Report

"PAKISTAN INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES: A TROUBLED LEGACY IN NEED OF REVIVAL"

Pakistan International Airlines PIA), once renowned for its slogan Great People to Fly With,’ has a storied history of contributions to the aviation industry. despite its illustrious past, PIA has faced challenges in recent decades, witnessing a decline from its former glory. This downward trajectory has prompted concerns about the airline's sustainability and competitiveness in the modern aviation landscape. The Pakistan government is now preparing to privatise the

Qatar explores major widebody order with Boeing, Airbus

Qatar Airways is reportedly in preliminary discussions with both Boeing and Airbus regarding a potential order of up to 150 widebody jets to modernise and expand its fleet as it needs to tackle the issue of an ageing fleet for long-distance.

"Embraer achieves ETOPS-120 certification for E2 Series

Embraer recently achieved a significant milestone with the acquisition of 120-minute ETOPS (Extended-Twin Engine Operations Performance Standards) approval for its E190-E2 and E195-E2 aircraft.

FLY91 set to soar

Regional carrier FLY91 launched its commercial operations in mid-March, aiming to establish a strong presence in the aviation sector. India’s youngest airline plans to break even within two years, the Goa-based airline anticipates employing approximately 350 staff members by the end of its inaugural year.