AVIATION UPDATE E MAG - JANUARY 2019 by Aviation Update

SpiceJet inducts Bhopal as its 50th domestic destination

Airbus delivers the 400th A320 Family aircraft assembled in Final Assembly Line Asia

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Issue 4

JANUARY 2019

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Indian Aviation 2018- Retrospect AL I C E SP RVIEW SCOTT NEAL, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, INTE WORLDWIDE SALES, GULFSTREAM

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31 SCHIEBEL CAMCOPTER® S-100 SUCCESSFULLY DEMONSTRATES NEW COMINT AND IMAGING PAYLOADS TO AUSTRALIAN ARMY CUSTOMER 07 11

Kazakhstan’s Air Astana Receives Its First E190-E2 jet Boeing Delivers the 787th 787 Dreamliner

Flydubai

06 announces direct flights to Kozhikode in India Bombardier

Avolon firms up order for 100 A320neo Family aircraft

Delta TechOps partners with Rolls-Royce to provide worldwide On-Wing Care Services

India marks double-digit trade growth in Q3 2018, says Maersk’s trade report Elbit, Adani Inaugurate UAV Complex in India

AVIATION UPDATE

08 Celebrates Entry-intoService of the Industry Flagship Global 7500 Business Jet Helga Bollman

15 Leknes appointed Chief Commercial Officer in Norwegian Lufthansa Cargo

26 further expands digital offering

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2019

EDITORIAL BOARD

“There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind”

AVIATION UPDATE India’s premier aviation monthly magazine

Vol : 05

Issue : 4

January - 2019

Editor-in-Chief : B. Kartikeya

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Editiorial & Advertising Offices Aviation Update 16-11-741/6/E/50, S.B.H COLONY, DILSUKHNAGAR, HYDERABAD-500 060, India. Tel: 09444499221, 040-42215553. Subscription/ Circulation Annual Subscription: 1200 INR – 12 Issues E-mail: subscribe@aviationupdatemagazine.com Letter to editor editor@aviationupdatemagazine.com For Advertising details contact advertise@aviationupdatemagazine.com All information in Aviation Update nformation is derived from sources, which we consider reliable and a sincere effort is made to report accurate information. It is passed on to our readers without any responsibility on our part. The publisher regrets that he cannot accept liability for errors and omissions contained in this publication, however caused. Similarly, opinions/ views expressed by third parties in abstract and/or in interviews are not necessarily shared by Aviation Update. However, we wish to advice our readers that one or more recognized authorities may hold different views than those reported. Material used in this publication is intended for information purpose only. Readers are advised to seek specific advice before acting on information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances.

Greetings and Salutations

Dear Readers,

The Aviation Update team wishes all the readers, subscribers, and well wishers a very prosperous and happy new year. As we embark on this new journey and turn over to a new chapter in our lives, we reflect on the learning and success handed over to us by 2018. The year starts on a promising note as reflect on all the accomplishments of the Indian aviation industry in 2018 in our cover story. The Indian skies are now opening up to opportunities that will propel the Indian aviation industry towards a bright future. Another major highlight of this issue is my interview with Mr Scott Neal, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Gulfstream. In this up-close exclusive interview for Aviation Update Magazine, he gave insights into Gulfstream’s growth plan for near future. With the very first issue of the year 2019, we have made a resolution to keep you well updated and provide you sharp insights on the aviation industry all throughout 2019. We appreciate the support & admiration you gave to Aviation Update in 2018 and we anticipate the same level of trust and enthusiasm toward our magazine in 2019. We hope we are able to raise the bar and reach new heights in 2019. Looking forward to your continued support

Contents of this publication are copyright. No part of Aviation Update or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publication in writing. The same rule applies when there is a copyright or the article is taken from another publication. An exemption is hereby granted for the extracts used for the purpose of fair review, provided two copies of the same publication are sent to us for our records. Publications reproducing material either in part or in whole, without permission could face legal action. The publisher assumes no responsibility for returning any material solicited or unsolicited nor is he responsible for material lost or damaged. This publication is not meant to be an endorsement of any specific product or services offered. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw, amend or otherwise deal with all advertisements without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the Indian and International Advertisements Code. The publisher will not be liable for any damage or loss caused by delayed publication.

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2019

Thanks B. Kartikeya Editor

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RICHARD BRANSON WELCOMES ASTRONAUTS HOME FROM VIRGIN GALACTIC’S HISTORIC FIRST SPACEFLIGHT

istory has been made and a longanticipated dream realised in Mojave, CA, as Virgin Galactic’s Spaceship Two, VSS Unity, landed from her maiden spaceflight to cheers from Richard Branson and the teams from Virgin Galactic and The Spaceship Company. Not only is this the first human spaceflight to be launched from American soil since the final Space Shuttle mission in 2011, but the very first time that a crewed vehicle built for commercial, passenger service, has reached space. As VSS Unity coasted upwards through the black sky and into space, Virgin Galactic Mission Control confirmed the news and congratulated the two astronaut pilots: “ Unity, Welcome to Space”. After a Mach 2.5 supersonic re-entry into the atmosphere, which utilised Unity’s unique “feathering” configuration, Forger and CJ guided the spaceship down to a smooth runway landing and an emotional homecoming welcome. Commenting from the flight line Richard Branson said: “Many of you will know how important the dream of space travel is to me personally. Ever since I watched the moon landings as a child I have looked up to the skies with wonder. We started Virgin nearly 50 years ago dreaming big and loving a challenge. Today, as I stood among a truly remarkable group of people with our eyes on the stars, we saw our biggest dream and our toughest challenge to date fulfilled. It was an indescribable feeling: joy, relief, exhilaration and anticipation for what is yet to come. “Today, for the first time in history, a crewed spaceship, built to carry private

AVIATION UPDATE

passengers, reached space. Today we completed our first revenue generating flight and our pilots earned their Commercial Astronaut Wings. Today, we have shown that Virgin Galactic really can open space to change the world for good. We will now push on with the remaining portion of our flight test program, which will see the rocket motor burn for longer and VSS Unity fly still faster and higher towards giving thousands of private astronauts an experience which provides a new, planetary perspective to our relationship with the Earth and the cosmos. This is a momentous day and I could not be more proud of our teams who together have opened a new chapter of space exploration.” George Whitesides, CEO of Virgin Galactic and The Spaceship Company, said: “What we witnessed today is more compelling evidence that commercial space is set to become one of the twenty-first century’s defining industries. Reusable vehicles built and operated by private companies are about to transform our business and personal lives in ways which are as yet hard to imagine. New enterprises are being created which will become hugely valuable, while enabling humanity to better manage some of its greatest future challenges. Today was a remarkable achievement brought about by the skill, dedication and support of our shareholders, staff, customers, partners and many other stakeholders. We extend our congratulations and thanks to each and every one of them.”

AVIANCA BRASIL FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY

vianca Brasil, the country’s fourthlargest airline, filed for bankruptcy protection Monday after three lessors—BOC Aviation (Ireland), Infinity Transportation, and Aircastle subsidiary Constitution Aircraft Leasing—sued the carrier for return of close to 30 percent of its all-Airbus fleet of about 50 aircraft, just at the start of the holiday and southern hemisphere summer high season. Avianca Brasil operates independently of Colombia’s Avianca Holding, though Synergy Group and the Efromovich family own both. Avianca blames rising fuel cost, currency fluctuations, and the depressed Brazilian economy for its financial difficulties. Operationally, Star Alliance member Avianca

has increased its market share from around 3 percent in 2009 to almost 14 percent in the first months of 2018, and the market is now recovering along with the Brazilian economy. Avianca offers hot meals, screens on every seatback, and a more generous seat pitch than its competitors, and in mid-2017 it began operations to Miami, Santiago, and then New York. The bankruptcy case remains under judicial seal, which makes for conflicting reports of Avianca’s debts and even the number of aircraft and details of the repossession petitions. According to local newspaper O Estado de S. Paulo, the first to report the Chapter 11 filing, Avianca’s debts to public and private airports alone total about R$100 million ($26 million), though fuel suppliers have received their payments. Other reported creditors include hotels that host crew. Regulatory filings indicate the airline’s bank debt grew at least 50 percent in 2018. Avianca Brasil had decided in August to reduce its fleet by eight aircraft and began negotiations to return airplanes to lessors. Missed payments followed. Avianca said in a statement that “due to its aircraft lessors’ resistance to reaching a friendly agreement,” it filed the petition to protect its clients and passengers. Several years ago, when Brazilian airline workers’ unions routinely struck for higher pay, they always picked mid-December as threatening maximum disruption while still offering time for agreement. With a new president set to take power on New Year’s day, the threat of chaos appears well timed to unlock government concessions. Avianca Brasil has long taken creative approaches in a difficult market. It began as a charter firm, when the Efromovich family accepted two aircraft as settlement of a debt by a client of their shipyards, and then in 2002 became a discount airline under the name Ocean Air. When accidents gave a bad name to the Fokker 100, the backbone of Ocean Air’s fleet, Germán Efromovich rebaptized his airplanes as the MK-28. But the shipyards had as a major client Petrobras— the focus of the ongoing “Car Wash” corruption scandal—and like all Petrobras suppliers they have suffered.

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BAHAMAS AIR SIGNS THREE YEAR GLOBAL MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT WITH ATR

aribbean airline Bahamas air has become the latest airline to select ATR’s Global Maintenance Agreement (GMA) contract. The GMA covers the full Bahamas air fleet, which is composed of three ATR 42-600s and two ATR 72-600s. The contract covers Standard Exchanges, Line Replacement Unit (LRU) repairs and Propeller repairs. Bahamas air becomes the fourth airline in the Caribbean to choose the GMA and this reflects the quality and comprehensiveness of ATR’s maintenance service in the region. Bahamas air CEO, Tracy Cooper, declared: “Every airline needs its aircraft to be flying as much as possible so maintenance is naturally vital. ATR’s GMA responds specifically to our needs and their expertise will reduce the amount of time our aircraft spend on the ground. Our ATRs provide essential domestic connections within the Bahamas and also allow a more flexible international schedule. Our passengers depend on a reliable service and ATR’s GMA is a valuable tool to help us deliver this.” Tom Anderson, Senior Vice-President Programs and Customer Services of ATR said: “Bahamas air’s decision to choose our GMA proves the quality of ATR’s global services footprint that we are able to offer airlines. The value of our policy of offering solutions as close to our operators as possible is reflected by the comprehensive GMA coverage in the Caribbean. Nobody knows our aircraft better than we do and we will continue to strengthen our maintenance offer, ensuring our operators will always get the most value possible from our bespoke GMA.”

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MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION & AIRPORTS AUTHORITY OF INDIA LAUNCHES MOBILE APPLICATION FOR GLOBAL AVIATION SUMMIT 2019

hri Jayant Sinha, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Government of India, launched the official mobile application “GAS 2019”, for the Global Aviation Summit 2019, taking place on January 15-16, 2019 at the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai. The application was launched in the presence of Shri Rajiv Nayan Choubey, Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, Dr.Guruprasad Mohapatra, Chairman of the Airports Authority of India, Dr.Shefali Juneja, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of Indiaand other officials of the AAI. The GAS 2019 application is available on play store and iOS. It provides a holistic glimpse of the Summit and can be used to access latest updates about the mega event. The application enables users to interact with the co-delegates and speakers. It would be an excellent platform for networking through personal and group chats.

Gittens, Director-General, the Airports Council International (ACI); Mr. Jeff Poole, Director-General, the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO), Mr. Emmanuel Menanteau, CO-CEO, Kansai Airport, Mr. Florian Reuter, CEO, Volocopter GmbH, Mr. RafalMilczarski, CEO & President of the Management Board, Polish Airlines, Mr. Marc Pissens, President Global Aviation Division, MR Don Thoma, CEO, Aireon, Mr. Stephen Beatty, Global Head – Aviation, KPMG and others will be attending the Summit to share their vision and expertise. The future of Aviation – drones and seaplanes, airport privatization, digital travel and holistic development of global aviation ecosystem are the key areas where we intent to push the envelope both on regulations and on industry structure. This platform will enable the industry leaders to prepare a policy roadmap that will certainly provide a strong impetus to all players in the aviation ecosystem. The Summit will entails various B2G, B2B and G2G meetings. The immersive event will also be an opportunity for the aviation fraternity to get together and work on a series of important issues not just for India but for the entire world. This is a place where the dignitaries can come and meet the people they wanted to meet and have the conversations they wanted to have about the aviation sector.

FLYDUBAI ANNOUNCES DIRECT FLIGHTS TO KOZHIKODE IN INDIA

With the who’s who of the global aviation fraternity set to grace the event. The Summit is a promising platform for constructive discussions, collaborations and meeting of minds to explore the future of global aviation. The esteemed guest-list for the Summit includes Transport & Civil Aviation ministers from Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh, Nepal and Jamaica, Civil Aviation Authorities and Directorate Generals of Civil Aviation (DGCAs) from 22 countries. Besides, Mr. Olumuyiwa BenardAliu, President, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO); Mr. Alexandre de Juniac, Director-General, the International Air Transport Association (IATA); Ms. Angela

ubai-based flydubai has announced the launch of direct flights to Kozhikode in Kerala, India. The three times weekly service from Dubai International (DXB) to Kozhikode Calicut International Airport (CCJ) will start from 01 February 2019 making flydubai the only Dubai-based carrier to operate this route.

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Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer, flydubai commenting on the new announcement: “we have always been proud of the strong ties between India and the UAE. We have seen a stronger flow of trade and tourism between the two countries over the past few years. In 2017, India became the first source market to top 2 million annual visitors representing an impressive 15 per cent year-on-year increase in total number of visitors to Dubai.We are grateful for the support we have received from the Indian authorities and we remain committed to serving the market. We look forward to more opportunities to strengthen the airlinks between the two countries in the future,” added Al Ghaith. Commenting on the announcement, Sudhir Sreedharan, Senior Vice President, Commercial (UAE, GCC, Subcontinent and Africa) at flydubai, said: “we are pleased to add Kozhikode to our network of eight destinations in India, offering greater connectivity and an unrivalled travel experience to our passengers in India. The new route will provide more passengers from India with access to Dubai and beyond via its aviation hub together with the new codeshare agreement.”

THE ANDHRA PRADESH GOVERNMENT PARTNERS WITH INDIGO TO INTRODUCE INTERNATIONAL SERVICES FROM VIJAYAWADA

of Vijayawada International Airport on December 04, 2018. Mr. Ajay Jain, IAS Principal Secretary Energy, I&I said, “We feel excited to engage IndiGo, being the most preferred airline, to connect state capital Vijayawada to Singapore. This will fulfil the dreams of Telugu Diaspora in Singapore and great convenience for our investors and business community”. Mr Virender Singh, CEO- APADCL said “this is just a beginning to add more such flights to many more destinations”. Mr. William Boulter, Chief Commercial Officer, IndiGo said, “We feel absolutely privileged to be the first domestic airline to launch international services from Vijayawada in association with the Government of Andhra Pradesh. These twice weekly nonstop flight services between Vijayawada and Singapore will further augment our regional connectivity that we provide across domestically and internationally. At IndiGo, we will continue to provide an ontime, courteous and hassle-free service, and affordable fares to our customers, as always.”

SPICEJET ANNOUNCES EIGHT NEW DIRECT FLIGHTS CONNECTING HYDERABAD TO THREE CITIES

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n a collaborative endeavour to provide air connectivity between Vijayawada and Singapore, IndiGo is all set to operate the first international flight from Vijayawada jointly with the Andhra Pradesh government. As part of the strategic partnership between the two, the low-cost airline will operate two weekly non-stop services between Vijayawada and Singapore effective December, 2018. The first flight will fly out

AVIATION UPDATE

piceJet announced the launch of eight new direct flights to and from the city of Hyderabad. All the new flights are effective from 1st January, 2019. With the additions, the airline will operate 41 direct flights from the city starting 1 Jan. The daily direct flights introduced by the airline, will operate on the HyderabadKolkata Hyderabad-Pune and HyderabadCoimbatore routes. In a move which will tremendously benefit the business travelers, SpiceJet has added two new flights on the Hyderabad – Kolkata sectors thereby giving options for a same day return journey. SpiceJet is celebrating the launch by announcing an introductory promotional

fare starting at INR 2699 on HyderabadKolkata, INR 3199 on Kolkata - Hyderabad, INR 2429 on Hyderabad-Pune, INR 2209 on Pune–Hyderabad, INR 2809 on HyderabadCoimbatore and INR 2309 on Coimbatore – Hyderabad routes. To cater to the surge due to seasonal demand, SpiceJet is all set to launch six new direct flights on the Kochi-Bengaluru-Kochi and Bengaluru-Port Blair-Bengaluru routes including an additional frequency between Bengaluru-Bagdogra-Bengaluru. While the flights between Kochi-Bengaluru will operate daily, the flights between Bengaluru-Port Blair and Bengaluru-Bagdogra will fly on all days of the week except Tuesdays. The airline will operate these seasonal flights from January 5 to February 28, 2019. The airline will deploy its Boeing 737 – 800 aircraft on all these routes. Shilpa Bhatia, Chief Sales & Revenue Officer - SpiceJet, said, “Hyderabad is an important market for us and we are delighted to connect the city even better. The city, famous for its delectable cuisine and tourism, is also an IT hub. Our two new flights from the city to Kolkata offers same day travel option which will benefit thousands of flyers who frequent the city for business thereby boosting the state’s growth prospects.” With the new flights, passengers from Pune and Coimbatore can now easily travel to a host of other cities both on SpiceJet’s domestic as well as international network via multiple onward connections from Hyderabad.

KAZAKHSTAN’S AIR ASTANA RECEIVES ITS FIRST E190-E2 JET

ir Astana, the flag carrier of Kazakhstan, presented its first E190-E2 jet in a ceremony held in Astana. The airline will receive four additional E190-E2s next year,

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QUICK UPDATE with the last of the five aircraft, leased by AerCap, being delivered in the final quarter of 2019. The Kazakhstan airline will start flying the new aircraft on domestic and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) routes later this month. “All of us at Air Astana are pleased to receive our first E190-E2, and we look forward to a smooth entry into service and a simple transition for our pilots. We know Embraer’s E-Jets well, and have high expectations for their new generation aircraft in terms of economics, environmental impact, and levels of comfort and convenience for our customers,” said Peter Foster, President of Air Astana. Air Astana’s first E190-E2 features a “snow leopard” livery, designed and hand painted by Embraer in the ‘Profit Hunter’ style. Air Astana’s snow leopard joins the now famous Eagle, Tiger, and Shark E2s with the distinctive ‘Profit Hunter’ nose art. For Air Astana however, the paint scheme is designed to draw global attention to the threat of extinction faced by the wild cat. The snow leopard is an official symbol of Kazakhstan and is native to the country’s southern mountain ranges. Foster continued. “Our passengers, staff, and in fact the whole of Kazakhstan will appreciate the amazing depiction of the snow leopard on our new jet. The snow leopard embodies the resilience and ambition of our nation, and we all strive to save these magnificent creatures from extinction and for posterity”. “We are honored to deliver our most advanced commercial aircraft to our good friends at Air Astana”, said John Slattery, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “For a manufacturer, there is no better reward than to see a customer’s business continuously growing with our products. Air Astana’s decision to embrace the E2 program is a further measure of trust in Embraer and in the E-Jets family of commercial aircraft.”

“FLY HIGHER”: VISTARA’S NEW BRAND CAMPAIGN INSPIRES FLYERS TO NOT SETTLE FOR LESS THAN THE BEST 8

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iming to inspire air travelers to not settle for second best, Vistara, India’s finest full-service carrier, announced its new highdecibel multimedia brand campaign dubbed ‘Fly Higher’. The Fly Higher campaign builds on Vistara’s brand promise, which is to make people look forward to flying again, and to expect the same level of class, quality, and attention to detail in the air as they expect in their other career, lifestyle, and travel choices. Conceptualized by Vistara’s creative agency FCB India, the creative concept of the brand campaign is based on wide-ranging customer insights suggesting that discerning customers today are not willing to settle for less than the best. Successful Indians of all ages today live a life of a certain standard – they choose offbeat and challenging careers, create their own success stories, dine at fine restaurants, wear the best brands, pick uncommon holiday destinations, stay in the most stylish hotels, and expect the best quality and service in everything they select, but when it comes to flying, there is generally a compromise to select basis simply the fare, in the absence of compelling reasons to select basis additional attributes. Vistara challenges this by giving flyers a reason to select their airline too with the same discerning eye to quality and customer experience: Why settle for second best when you can fly the best? ‘Fly Higher’ is an extension of Vistara’s tagline ‘Fly the new Feeling’. Vistara offers travellers a flying experience like no other, thereby taking flying to the next level. As stated in the text that accompanies the inaugural campaign ad: The new integrated campaign is scheduled to go on-air on 14th December 2018 and will run for approximately 75 days from the launch. The campaign will be deployed across multiple platforms including digital, TV, cinema print and outdoor, aiming to target the diverse range of travelers. Commenting on the new brand campaign, Sanjiv Kapoor, Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer, Vistara said, “At Vistara, we deliver a flying experience like no other airline in India. Our frequent flyers know this and tell us we have really made flying something they can look forward to again. We want to bring this message to a larger audience through this new campaign. You have a choice of airlines when it comes to

flying – why not choose the one that aims higher, treats you better, and continues to find new ways to delight customers? Good enough is not good enough for the corporate high flyers and successful millennials of today, why not choose an airline that thinks like you do, that understands you and respects your needs? Why not Fly Higher?”

BOMBARDIER CELEBRATES ENTRY-INTO-SERVICE OF THE INDUSTRY FLAGSHIP GLOBAL 7500 BUSINESS JET

ombardier celebrated the entry-intoservice of its award-winning Global 7500 business jet, during a special event held at its recently renamed Laurent Beaudoin Completion Centre, in presence of selected customers, suppliers and representatives from the industry. “Pride and excitement are profound understatements when it comes to the entry-into-service of our flagship Global 7500 aircraft,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “This revolutionary aircraft is the gateway to a transformed business aviation landscape and a very bright future. No other aircraft can compare and this achievement demonstrates Bombardier’s commitment to deliver revolutionary and high-performing aircraft and provide customers with the best business jet experience in the world.” Throughout the entire flight testing program, the Global 7500 aircraft demonstrated its ability to push the boundaries of business travel by exceeding its initial performance commitments. In addition to its unsurpassed range of 7,700 nautical miles, the Global 7500 aircraft exceeded its original takeoff and landing performance commitments, leading to a new published takeoff distance of 5,800 feet - almost 500 feet shorter than the closest –

AVIATION UPDATE

QUICK UPDATE and smaller – competitor aircraft. The aircraft also reached Mach 0.995 only five months after the start of the flight test program – another unprecedented achievement in a flight test program. “Today’s celebration is a testament to the rigour and excellence of our Global 7500 aircraft program, from the drawing board to entry-into-service,” said Michel Ouellette, Senior Vice President, Program Management and Engineering, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “It is a historic moment for Bombardier and the thousands of dedicated employees who have proudly brought a no-compromise attitude to the table each and every day. Today, the world-class, highly-skilled team at the Laurent Beaudoin Completion Centre continues to carry on the tradition of delivering game-changing large-cabin aircraft in Montréal, much like the original Global Express 20 years ago.”

FIRST ANA A380 ROLLS OUT OF AIRBUS PAINTSHOP WITH UNIQUE LIVERY

he first A380 for All Nippon Airways (ANA) has rolled out of the Airbus Paintshop in Hamburg, Germany, bearing the airlines distinctive and unique Hawaiian green sea turtle livery. ANA has firm orders for three A380s, becoming the first customer for the superjumbo in Japan. The airline will take delivery of the first A380 at the end of the first quarter of 2019 and will operate the aircraft on the popular leisure NaritaHonolulu route. The three ANA A380s will be painted in a special livery depicting sea turtles which are native to Hawaii. The first aircraft is blue, the second will be green and the third orange. The ANA A380 livery is one of the most elaborate ever painted by Airbus. It took 21 days for the Airbus team to paint a surface of 3,600m2 using 16 different shades of color.

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The aircraft will now have completion of its cabin and enter a final phase of ground and flight tests in Hamburg, during which all cabin systems will be thoroughly tested, including air flow and air conditioning, lighting, galleys, lavatories, seats and inflight entertainment. In parallel, Airbus will also undertake advanced aircraft performance tests before it flies back to Toulouse for preparation of its delivery and ferry flight. As one of the world’s most prestigious airlines, ANA will be able to benefit from the A380’s proven operating economics and unrivalled passenger appeal. Offering more personal space than any other aircraft, the A380 is the most efficient solution to meeting growth on the world’s most heavily travelled routes, carrying more passengers with fewer flights at lower cost and emissions. At the end of November, Airbus has delivered 232 A380s, with the aircraft now in service with 14 airlines worldwide.

LLP and Indonesian law firm Mochtar, Karuwin & Komar. Commenting at a convention for aviation finance in London. Anne- Bart Tieleman, CEO – TrueNoord, said “These are the first brand-new ATRs for TrueNoord and it has been an exciting experience for us over the past five months. These aircraft sow the seeds of our ultimate vision and long-term plan to build up a strong portfolio of young regional aircraft types with a good global spread and leased to experienced, market leading operators. Wings Air currently flies 270 routes across Indonesia mostly consisting of short-haul flights of less than one hour. Its fleet is exclusively comprised of propeller-based aircraft, allowing the airline to serve difficult routes and airstrips that only turboprop aircraft can service.”

AIR TANZANIA BECOMES FIRST AFRICAN-BASED A220 OPERATOR

WINGS AIR LEASES FOURTH ATR 72-600 FROM TRUENOORD

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T Wings Abadi, operating as Wings Air and a subsidiary of Lion Air Group, has taken delivery of its fourth new ATR 72-600 aircraft leased from TrueNoord, the specialist regional aircraft lessor. This is the culmination of a deal that has already seen TrueNoord integrate three aircraft into the Wings Air fleet in August, October and November this year, respectively. The aircraft are all provided on longterm operating leases in association with Transportation Partners and ATR. Financing is provided under TrueNoord’s recent term loan warehouse facility supported by Morgan Stanley, NORD/LB Norddeutsche Landesbank and Barclays. Legal services were provided by the London and Singapore offices of Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy

ir Tanzania has become the first African carrier to take delivery of the Airbus A220 aircraft, the newest addition to the Airbus family of commercial aircraft. Air Tanzania (The Wings of the Kilimanjaro) also becomes the latest member of Airbus aircraft operators. Representatives from the airline – as well as officials from the United Republic of Tanzania government, alongside executives from the A220 programme – celebrated the aircraft’s handover at the A220 Mirabel assembly line. “The A220’s unrivalled passenger comfort, combined with its remarkable performance and economics, will be an excellent asset to further develop Air Tanzania’s network,” said Tito Kasambala, Acting CEO, Tanzanian Government Flight Agency (TGFA). The A220 will allow Air Tanzania to

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further develop its domestic and regional market as well as open new routes to India and the Middle East from its home base at Dar es Salaam. “With the addition of the A220 in our fleet, we are confident that we will expand our footprint in the growing African markets and beyond, as we unlock additional routes and regain our position as a key player in the African air transport market,” added Ladislaus Matindi, Managing Director & CEO, Air Tanzania Company Limited. Air Tanzania becomes the fifth airline globally with an A220 family aircraft. “After Europe, Asia and America, we are proud to see the A220 fly now also on the African continent and in Air Tanzania’s livery. With over 240 Airbus aircraft flying in Africa and a large network of flight service offices in the region, we are ready to contribute to the airline’s success,” said Philippe Balducchi, CEO of the A220 partnership.

SWISS AIR-RESCUE REGA COMPLETES NEW AIR AMBULANCE FLEET WITH DELIVERY OF 3RD CHALLENGER 650 BUSINESS JET

650 aircraft to our partners at Rega,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Confidence because we know these aircraft have the reliability that is so important when lives are on the line, and pride to see the Challenger platform configured into the world’s most advanced air ambulance.” Bombardier has a varied portfolio of business jets that can be readily modified for special missions. In this case the three Challenger 650 aircraft, with their widest-inclass cabins, were specially outfitted with two state-of-the-art intensive care units including two patient beds. Bombardier’s signature smooth ride provides a comfortable environment during any special mission. Swiss Air-Rescue Rega is a non-profit foundation and one of the world’s pioneers in aeromedical evacuation. In addition to repatriating patients from abroad with three ambulance jets, Rega carries out air-rescue operations in Switzerland with a fleet of 17 helicopters. Rega acquired its first Challenger aircraft from Bombardier in 1982 and has operated Challenger aircraft ever since.

SPICEJET INDUCTS BHOPAL AS ITS 50TH DOMESTIC DESTINATION

slew of new direct flights and frequencies to connect the pilgrim city of Shirdi even better. SpiceJet has introduced 10 new direct flights on the routes of Shirdi-Bengaluru, ShirdiJaipur, Shirdi-Bhopal and Shirdi-Ahmedabad including and additional frequency on the Shirdi-Hyderabad route. SpiceJet was the first and only airline to start operations on the Shirdi-Delhi route and has also connected the city to Mumbai and Hyderabad. The new flights on the Bhopal-Jaipur, Hyderabad-Bhopal, and Shirdi-Jaipur routes have been specifically designed for business travelers, facilitating a same day return journey. Deploying its Bombardier Q400 aircraft on these routes, SpiceJet aims to further strengthen its network between metros and small towns. Shilpa Bhatia, Chief Sales & Revenue Officer - SpiceJet, said, “SpiceJet is delighted to on-board Bhopal on to its pan-India network. Being centrally located and capital to one of the country’s largest states, Bhopal has a huge latent potential. Our daily direct flights connecting Bhopal to Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Shirdi will offer added options and convenience to business and tourist flyers alike. The flights will serve in unlocking the value potential on these routes.” With the new flights, passengers from the towns like Bhopal and Shirdi can now easily travel to a host of other cities both on SpiceJet’s domestic as well as international network via multiple onward connections from Ahmedabad, Jaipur Hyderabad and Bengaluru.

“It is with the utmost confidence and pride that we deliver a third Challenger

SpiceJet has introduced 10 direct flight services on the routes of Bhopal-Jaipur, Bhopal-Ahmedabad, Bhopal-Hyderabad, and Bhopal-Shirdi thus connecting the capital city of Madhya Pradesh like never before. The airline has also introduced a

ombardier has proudly delivered a third Challenger 650 aircraft to Swiss AirRescue Rega, completing a next-generation fleet of air ambulances tasked with rescuing and repatriating Swiss citizens around the world. Rega, a long-standing Bombardier customer, took possession of two other Challenger 650 aircraft earlier in 2018. This trio of aircraft replaces Rega’s Challenger 604 fleet, and demonstrates the non-profit foundation’s commitment to the renowned Bombardier Challenger platform.

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piceJet announced the on-boarding of Bhopal as its 50th domestic destination with the introduction of five new direct flights from the capital city. The airline has also announced five new direct flights from the temple town of Shirdi. All the 18 new direct domestic flights are effective from 6 January 2019.

GULFSTREAM G650ER CONNECTS NEW YORK WITH DUBAI IN RECORD TIME

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ulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced that the ultra long-range Gulfstream G650ER has completed a record-breaking flight en route to the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) Show in Dubai. The aircraft bested the previous world speed record by one hour and 48 minutes. The G650ER flew from Teterboro, New Jersey, to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, a distance of 6,142 nautical miles/11,375 kilometers, in just 11 hours and two minutes. The flight was completed at an average speed of Mach 0.90. “Time and again, the G650ER has demonstrated its performance agility,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “And this is another one of those times. No other aircraft offers the high-speed range utility that the G650ER does out of high-demand airports like Teterboro. This proves yet again that the G650ER remains in a class by itself.” More than 325 G650 and G650ER aircraft operate around the world, including more than 30 in the Middle East alone. Pending approval by the National Aeronautic Association, this record will be the G650 family’s 79th.

AIRBUS READY TO ROLLOUT PILOT CADET TRAINING CO-DEVELOPED WITH ENAC

The Airbus Pilot Cadet Training Programme aims to equip cadets with the skills and mind-set required to become an “operationally-ready pilot” focusing on the all-important development of key pilot technical and behavioural competencies. The programme reflects, not only Airbus’ commitment to supporting the safe operation of all its aircraft, but also supports airline customers in contributing to the longterm availability of qualified pilots, helping to meet the growing demand forecast for more than 500,000 pilots over the next 20 years. The programme will be open to young people over 18 years old who have graduated from high school. Candidates will undergo online and on-site screening tests before being eligible for training, which will include 750 hours of ground school, plus 200 hours of flight training. Airbus has been offering training courses since its creation some 50 years ago and has always taken a comprehensive and innovative approach via its unique cockpit commonality concept and the regular introduction of the latest technologies or learning concepts.

BOEING DELIVERS THE 787TH 787 DREAMLINER

B irbus and the French Civil Aviation University, ENAC, have obtained EASA certification for a co-developed ab initio Pilot Cadet Training Programme that will be used by a worldwide network of partner flight schools, starting with the first customer Escuela de Aviacion Mexico (EAM) in Mexico city early 2019.

oeing delivered the 787th 787 Dreamliner to come off the production line, marking a special milestone for the super-efficient airplane family and the fastest-selling twin-aisle jet in history. Since its first delivery in September, 2011, the 787 family has flown nearly 300 million passengers on more than 1.5 million flights around the world, including more than 210 new nonstop routes made possible by the airplane’s superior fuel efficiency and range.

Pilot Cadets worldwide will now be able to benefit from a complete and fully integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence programme built upon Airbus’ high safety and reliability standards and extensive experience in pilot training.

“Reaching this milestone delivery is a testament to our amazing Boeing team who build the world’s most capable and reliable airplanes,” said Kevin McAllister, president & chief executive officer for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “This delivery

AVIATION UPDATE

also reflects the special capabilities of the 787 Dreamliner. The growing fleet continues to deliver unmatched efficiency, open new routes, and provide an exceptional passenger experience.” The airplane was delivered to AerCap, the world’s largest lessor and 787 customer. Sporting a special logo commemorating the production milestone, the airplane will be leased and operated by China Southern, which continues to expand its long-haul fleet of 787 Dreamliners, including 10 787-8s and eight 787-9s. “As one of the 787 launch customers and the first Chinese airline to operate the 787, we are honored to celebrate this important milestone with China Southern Airlines,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. “We also thank AerCap for their large commitment to the Dreamliner. They continue to be a valued partner and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones with them in the coming years.” China Southern Airlines first ordered 10 787-8 Dreamliners in 2005 and further increased its capability on long-haul routes when they placed an order for 787-9s in 2016.The 787s have enabled the airline to launch a number of non-stop global routes connecting Guangzhou to London and Rome in Europe; Vancouver, British Columbia, in North America; and Perth, Auckland, and Christchurch in the Oceania region.

REPUBLIC AIRWAYS FIRM UP ORDER FOR 100 E175S

epublic Airways, the world’s largest E-Jet operator, have signed a contract for a firm order of 100 E175 jets. This agreement was announced as a Letter of Intent (LoI) at the Farnborough Airshow, in July. The firm order has a value of USD 4.69 billion, based on current list prices, and will be included in Embraer’s 2018 fourthquarter backlog. Deliveries will start in 2020. The contract also includes purchase

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rights for an additional 100 E175s, with conversion rights to the E175-E2, bringing the total potential order up to 200 E-Jets. With all purchase rights being exercised, the deal has a list price of USD 9.38 billion. “What a great way to finish this very hectic year for us at Embraer,” said John Slattery, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “As we promised in Farnborough, we are now closing a very important contract with Republic for these additional E175’s, continuously growing our long-standing partnership.” “This order represents another significant advance in our long-standing partnership with Embraer, and it positions Republic to compete for the more than 300 regional aircraft we anticipate being up for bid during the next five years as existing flying agreements expire with our global codeshare partners”, said Bryan Bedford, Republic’s President and CEO. Republic Airways and Embraer established their partnership in 1999 when one of its former subsidiaries, Chautauqua Airlines, took delivery of its first ERJ 145 in the livery of US Airways Express. Today, Republic Airline operates a fleet of nearly 190 Embraer 170/175 aircraft and provides fixed-fee flights operated under its major airline partner brands of American Eagle, Delta Connection and United Express.

EMBRAER AND BOEING APPROVED THE TERMS OF STRATEGIC AEROSPACE PARTNERSHIP, SEEK BRAZILIAN GOVERNMENT APPROVAL

mbraer and Boeing have approved to the terms of a strategic partnership that would position both companies to accelerate growth in global aerospace markets. The approved terms define the joint venture comprising the commercial aircraft and services operations of Embraer, in which Boeing will hold an 80 percent ownership stake and Embraer will hold the remaining 20 percent. The transaction remains subject to approval by the Government of Brazil, after which Embraer and Boeing intend to

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execute definitive transaction documents. The closing of the transaction will then be subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Under the terms of the proposed partnership, Boeing will acquire an 80 percent ownership stake in the joint venture for $4.2 billion. The partnership is expected to be neutral to Boeing’s earnings per share in 2020 and accretive thereafter. Estimated annual pre-tax cost synergies of approximately $150 million are anticipated by the third year of operations. Once the transaction has closed, the commercial aviation joint venture will be led by Brazil-based management, including a president and chief executive officer. Boeing will have operational and management control of the new company, which will report directly to Dennis Muilenburg, Boeing chairman, president and chief executive officer. Embraer will retain consent rights for certain strategic decisions, such as transfer of operations from Brazil. “Boeing and Embraer know each other well through more than two decades of collaboration, and the respect we have for each other and the value we see in this partnership has only increased since we announced our joint efforts earlier this year,” said Dennis Muilenburg, Boeing chairman, president and chief executive officer. “We are confident that this partnership will deliver great value to Brazil and the Brazilian aerospace industry as a whole. This alliance will strengthen both companies in the global market and is aligned with our long-term sustainable growth strategy,” said Paulo Cesar de Souza e Silva, Embraer president and chief executive officer. The companies have also agreed to the terms of another joint venture to promote and develop new markets for the multimission medium airlift KC-390. Under the terms of this proposed partnership, Embraer will own a 51 percent stake in the joint venture, with Boeing owning the remaining 49 percent. The transaction is subject to approval by the Government of Brazil, ratification by the Embraer Board of Directors and its further authorization to execute the definitive transaction documents. Once the parties have executed the definitive transaction agreements, the strategic partnership

will then be subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, as well as other customary closing conditions. Assuming the approvals are received in a timely manner, the transaction is intended to close by the end of 2019.

AIRBUS DELIVERS THE 400TH A320 FAMILY AIRCRAFT ASSEMBLED IN FINAL ASSEMBLY LINE ASIA

irbus has delivered the 400th A320 Family aircraft from its Final Assembly Line Asia (FALA) in Tianjin, China. The A320neo was delivered to national flag carrier Air China, based in Beijing. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF latest generation engines, the aircraft features a comfortable two-class cabin layout with 158 seats: 8 businesses and 150 economy. The milestone is a tribute to the excellent industrial cooperation and partnership between Airbus and the Chinese aviation industry. The Airbus A320 Family Final Assembly Line Asia (FALA) is a joint venture between Airbus and a Chinese consortium comprising Tianjin Airport Economic Area Zone & Tianjin Port Free Trade Administrative Committee and China Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC). Airbus and the Chinese consortium hold 51% and 49% of the shares of the joint venture respectively. Airbus has four A320 Family production facilities around the world: Toulouse, France; Hamburg, Germany; Tianjin, China; and Mobile, United States.

JET AIRWAYS ANNOUNCES CODESHARE WITH FLYNAS

et Airways and ‘flynas’, Saudi Arabia’s first budget airline, have entered into an extensive codeshare partnership to enhance connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia.

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As part of the agreement, Jet Airways will place its marketing code ‘9W’ on flynas flights between the gateway cities of Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh, thus providing its guests travelling from India the ability to travel in to Saudi Arabia via one point and depart from another. Jet Airways will also be placing its code via Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh to the Saudi Arabian cities of Medina which is the holiest city in Islam, as well as port city of Gizan, the agriculturally rich city of Gassim, the unofficial summer capital city of Taif and the popular tourist destination Abha, thus extending our reach into Saudi Arabia. In turn, flynas will be able to offer its guests access in to India by placing its marketing code ‘XY’ on Jet Airways’ international flights connecting Jeddah to Mumbai, Riyadh to Mumbai and Delhi as well as Dammam to Mumbai and Delhi. In addition to these international routes, flynas will also place its marketing code on certain destinations on the Jet Airways domestic network, via Mumbai to Delhi, Kochi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Lucknow as well as via Delhi to Bengaluru, Lucknow, Chennai, and Kochi. Mr. Marnix Fruitema, Executive Vice President – Commercial, Jet Airways, said: “Saudi Arabia is the second largest international travel market to/from India with almost 6 million passengers travelling between both countries annually for religious tourism, business as well as leisure. Our codeshare agreement with flynas reflects our continuing commitment to offer our guests the best possible connections to more and more destinations around the world and we are delighted to partner with flynas to offer guests of both the airlines wider network access and a seamless travel experience across the networks of both carriers. flynas’ CEO, Mr. Bander Al-Mohanna stated: “This partnership is an important step in-line with flynas’ expansion and development strategy. Through such agreements we aim to offer a continually improved service to our passengers by adding more travel routes and expanding our reach regionally and internationally, in particular to key markets such as India. We are certain this partnership will support our efforts and enable us to upscale the quality and convenience required to meet and even surpass our passengers’ demands and expectations.”

AVIATION UPDATE

ATR RECEIVES THE HIGHEST DISTINCTION AT THE ECOMOBILITY AWARDS

TR, the European turboprop manufacturer, won the Gold award at the Ecomobility Trophies ceremony. The awards ceremony took place Wednesday, 12 December at the SMART CITY Forum in the Salle des Illustres in Toulouse’s Capitole complex. The Ecomobility Trophies event, organised by Tisséo Collectivités, in partnership with Toulouse Métropole and La Tribune. These awards aim to highlight companies that have put in place transport plans considered exemplary in terms of sustainable development. There were over 170 candidate companies for this seventh event. Following this award, Frédéric Torrea, ATR Corporate Secretary, stated “We are very happy to receive this award, which recognises the efforts made by ATR. The improvement of intercompany transportation involves a coordinated approach from our departments, and these positive results have been made possible by virtue of the commitment and involvement of all ATR employees.” He also added, “ATR aircraft are the most fuel-efficient aircraft in their class, with 5,000 metric tons of CO2 saved per year per aircraft, compared to regional jets. We are continuously working to improve the environmental performance of our aircraft. This is part of ATR’s DNA, and it is for this reason that we invest in our environmental approach beyond our aircraft, to include our daily activities and forms of transportation. ”

A319NEO WITH CFM LEAP1A ENGINES WINS JOINT TYPE CERTIFICATION FROM FAA AND EASA

he A319neo powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines has achieved joint Type Certification from both the US FAA and European EASA airworthiness authorities. This means that now all three aircraft models – the A319neo, A320neo and A321neo – are certified by the international authorities to operate with the CFM LEAP-1A engine option. This latest achievement follows an intensive certification flight-test programme since the A319neo’s first flight in March last year, with this variant having now accumulated over 500 flight hours. The A319neo with LEAP-1A engines is the fifth* airframe/engine variant of the NEO family certified over the last three years. Its certification also paves the way for the ACJ319neo (Airbus Corporate Jet) variant to enter service with VIP operators during the first half of 2019. The A319neo is the shortened-fuselage member of Airbus’ game-changing A320neo product line. This airliner can seat 140 passengers in two classes or as many as 160 in a high-density layout with a range of up to 3,750 nautical miles, while its impressive takeoff performance enables it to operate from even the most challenging and remote airports. Meanwhile, the ACJ319neo’s ability to fly eight VIP passengers 6,750nm or 15 hours will bring much of the world within nonstop range.

GREEN AFRICA AIRWAYS ANNOUNCE LANDMARK COMMITMENT FOR UP TO 100 737 MAX AIRCRAFT

oeing and Lagos-based Green Africa Airways announced a commitment for up to 100 737 MAX 8 aircraft, evenly split into 50 firm aircraft and 50 options, as the airline gears up to begin commercial operations. The total deal carries a list-price of $11.7 billion, the largest aircraft agreement from Africa, and will be reflected on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website once finalized. “Today is a historic day for the Nigerian and African aviation industry,” said Babawande Afolabi, Founder & CEO, Green Africa Airways. “This landmark deal takes us much closer to our long-held dream of

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building a world-class airline that will unlock a new realm of positive possibilities for millions of customers. Broadly speaking, this deal is a bold symbol of the dynamism, resilience and soaring entrepreneurial drive of the next generation of Nigerians and Africans.” Green Africa Airways, a value airline based in Lagos, Nigeria aims to offer safe, quality and affordable air travel and be a significant contributor to the economic development of Nigeria and the African continent. The new airline has received its Air Transport License from the Nigerian government and is anchored by a group of senior industry leaders led by Tom Horton, former Chairman and CEO of American Airlines, William Shaw, Founder and former CEO of VivaColombia and Virasb Vahidi, former CCO of American Airlines. “Nigeria is uniquely positioned to be the home of the next major value airline. The strategic partnership with Boeing positions Green Africa Airways to expand and improve air travel for customers in Nigeria, and further strengthens the relationship between the United States, Nigeria and Africa,” Vahidi said. The airline initially plans to develop the Nigerian market and then build a strong Pan African network. According to Boeing’s 20year Commercial Market Outlook, airlines in Africa will require 1,190 new airplanes as the continent boosts both intra-continental and intercontinental connectivity over the next couple of decades. “The growth potential for air travel across Nigeria and Africa is extraordinary with the airplane fleet expected to more than double over the next 20 years. We are delighted that Green Africa Airways has selected the 737 MAX to serve this expanding market,” said Ihssane Mounir, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales & Marketing, The Boeing Company. “We look forward to Green Africa Airways building their fleet with the MAX and taking advantage of the jet’s efficiency and dependability to open new options across Nigeria and the African continent. Boeing will be a trusted partner to Green Africa Airways as the MAX is introduced into their operations and through their long-term success.”

FLYADEAL SIGN COMMITMENT FOR UP TO 50 737 MAX JETS 14

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oeing and flyadeal announced the Middle East carrier is growing its fleet with the 737 MAX to take advantage of the airplane’s fuel efficiency, range and passenger comforts. The airline committed to ordering 30 airplanes with options for 20 more in a deal that would be valued at up to $5.9 billion at list price. The deal is subject to both sides concluding final terms and conditions and a purchase agreement. It will appear on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website once all contingencies are cleared. flyadeal, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Airlines, offers affordable flights within Saudi Arabia. Over the past year, the airline has conducted an evaluation process for 50 narrowbody airplanes to support domestic growth and potential international expansion. While flyadeal has been operating new Airbus A320s, the airline says it has selected the 737 MAX for the future. Director General of Saudi Arabian Airlines, His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser said, “The demand for air transport services in the domestic market of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has grown exponentially. A new brand, with a fresh identity focused on low-fares, flyadeal has brought to the market a new choice – which has been received very positively.” Al-Jasser added: “The low-fares airline will continue to expand rapidly, and the addition to the fleet aligns well with flyadeal’s target to grow its presence in the domestic market and cover new markets outside of Saudi Arabia.” Flyadeal selected the 737 MAX 8 which has capacity for 189 passengers in a oneclass configuration. Compared to flyadeal’s current fleet of A320s, the MAX 8 carries 12 more passengers and provides 8 percent lower operating costs per seat. “flyadeal has opened up more affordable flights to millions of travelers and we are honored that the airline has chosen the 737 MAX to power its exciting expansion,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. “We have supplied commercial airplanes to Saudi Arabia for more than 70 years and we look forward to finalizing this agreement and delivering advanced jetliners to flyadeal in the years ahead.”

AVOLON FIRMS UP ORDER FOR 100 A320NEO FAMILY AIRCRAFT

ublin, Ireland-headquartered aircraft lessor Avolon has firmed up an order for 75 A320neos and 25 A321neos. The agreement is the single largest order for Airbus aircraft ever placed by Avolon. The agreement takes Avolon’s cumulative orders with Airbus to 284 aircraft (240 single-aisles and 44 widebody aircraft) including the A321neo, the A330neo and the A350 XWB. Dómhnal Slattery, Avolon CEO, commented: “Our order for 100 A320neo family aircraft builds on our leading industry position and reflects our ambition to become the global leader in the sector. We continue to see robust demand from our customers for the A320neo family globally. This is consistent with our own market research and global fleet forecast. This order affirms our belief in the medium-term market outlook and the strong growth prospects for our business.” “This order underscores the market appetite for the efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal of our A320neo Family,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer. “The A320 Family of aircraft is a future-proof asset for investors and airlines alike. Avolon’s recent success is a testimony to its leadership’s dedication to our industry. Its commitment to Airbus reflects its profound market insights. I personally look forward to further extending this relationship as we go forward.” The new order for 100 aircraft, together with the 22 single-aisles and four widebodies already delivered, increases Avolon’s Airbus backlog to 258, the largest of any lessor. Featuring the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the efficient A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver more than 15 percent fuel and CO2 savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020 as well as 50 percent noise reduction. With more than 6,200 orders received from over 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent of the market.

AVIATION UPDATE

APPOINTMENTS

HELGA BOLLMAN LEKNES APPOINTED CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER IN NORWEGIAN

s. Helga Bollmann Leknes has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) in Norwegian.

“I am very pleased to announce that Helga Bollmann Leknes has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer of Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA. She will remain in her current role as Managing Director of Norwegian Air Resources (NAR), which she has led since March 2018,” says Norwegian’s CEO Bjørn Kjos. Ms. Bollmann Leknes joined Norwegian in October 2017 as Chief HR Officer and has also been responsible for commercial management since September 2018. “Helga has done a great job within a short amount of time. From now on, she will be responsible for the whole commercial value chain, a unique position for managing the synergies between vital parts of our operations,” Kjos continues.

RAJ SUBRAMANIAM TO TAKE CHARGE AS FEDEX EXPRESS PRESIDENT AND CEO

edEx has announced that Raj Subramaniam, currently executive VP, chief marketing and communications officer of FedEx Corporation, will succeed David L Cunningham as the president and CEO of FedEx Express. Cunningham will retire effective December 31, 2018. Cunningham began his FedEx career in 1982 in operations at the FedEx Express World Hub in Memphis, Tenn. Over his more than 36-year career, he held numerous leadership positions across the FedEx Express operating company in multiple regions, including CEO and president – international, FedEx Express Asia Pacific CFO, and regional president of the Asia Pacific region. Most

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recently as president and CEO of FedEx Express, David has been responsible for the leadership and direction of the FedEx Express group, which includes FedEx Express and TNT. Meanwhile, Subramaniam has been with FedEx for more than 27 years and has held various executive level positions. He began his career in Memphis and subsequently moved to Hong Kong, where he oversaw marketing and customer service for the Asia Pacific region. Subramaniam then took over as president of FedEx Express in Canada before moving back to the US as senior vice president of international marketing. He was then promoted to executive vice

president of marketing in 2013 at FedEx Services, prior to being named executive vice president and chief marketing and communications officer at FedEx Corporation in 2017. “Throughout David’s distinguished 36-year-career at FedEx, he has contributed to the growth of our company around the globe, and we wish him the best in his retirement,” said David J Bronczek, president and chief operating officer, FedEx Corporation. “Raj’s global vision and broad experience make him uniquely qualified to lead our largest operating company. We look forward to the continued growth of FedEx Express within our global portfolio as Raj takes on this critical role.” Brie Carere, a more than 17-year FedEx veteran, will succeed Subramaniam as executive vice president, chief marketing and communications officer of FedEx Corporation.

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APPOINTMENTS

WESTJET WELCOMES ARVED VON ZUR MUEHLEN AS CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER

estJet announced the appointment of Arved von zur Muehlen to the position of Chief Commercial Officer. Arved joins WestJet on January 2, 2019, subject to Canadian Immigration approval.

BOMBARDIER APPOINTS SANDRA BUCKLER AS SENIOR DIRECTOR, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

"Arved is an accomplished and successful commercial leader with deep expertise in aviation," said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. "We welcome Arved at this important moment in time for WestJet as we position ourselves as a premium global carrier. His experience leading the transformation of global aviation brands will be vital and we are thrilled to welcome Arved to our team." Reporting to President and CEO, Ed Sims, Arved will lead WestJet's commercial team with responsibility for all aspects of the commercial function including sales, marketing, product, network planning, revenue management, corporate development, airline partnerships and WestJet Vacations. Arved brings more than 20 years of commercial aviation experience to WestJet and will be joining the airline from Malaysia Airlines, where he served as Chief Commercial Officer responsible for the sales, revenue management, network planning, marketing and branding, product development, digital and customer experience. Prior to his role at Malaysia Airlines, he served as the Senior Vice-President of Commercial Network Operations at Qatar Airlines and the VicePresident of Sales and Marketing Intercontinental Markets at Swiss International Airlines. Arved also spent over 15 years with Lufthansa German Airlines where he took on various leadership roles.

ombardier Inc. announced the appointment of Sandra Buckler, Senior Director, External Affairs and Public Relations. Based in Toronto, Ms. Buckler will be responsible for developing and supporting the company’s external communications activities, focusing on providing strategic communications across Bombardier businesses, media relations, as well as community and stakeholder engagement in Ontario. An accomplished public affairs professional, Ms. Buckler garnered experience at senior levels in the private sector in Canada and in the United States, as well as in the Federal Government of Canada. Ms. Buckler recently completed a contract at the Toronto Police Service as a Strategic Communications Advisor providing advice on how to communicate the organization’s modernized service delivery model. Prior to this, Ms. Buckler applied her skills in reputation management, advocacy issues and crisis communications, government relations and employee communications for various companies and clients, including transportation companies, such as Bombardier, and a large Canadian retailer. “Sandra is the ideal person to represent our company and its 6,000 employees in Ontario. We look forward to her strategic communications and advocacy work on Bombardier activities in the Greater Toronto area, Kingston and Thunder Bay,” said Mike Nadolski, Vice President, Communications and Public Affairs, Bombardier Inc.

MARTIN FRIIS-PETERSEN TO TAKE OVER FROM LEO KOPPERS AS MTU MAINTENANCE’S FACE TO THE CUSTOMER

n 1st January 2019, Martin Friis-Petersen (45) will take on the role of Senior Vice President MRO Programs at MTU Aero Engines, heading up the sales and marketing organization for MTU Maintenance. He takes over from Leo Koppers (60), who is retiring after 16 years with MTU. “We are extremely grateful to Leo Koppers for his great skill and personal dedication. In the time he has been with MTU, he has been the go-to expert for MRO, well-known and respected among

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key industry players and highly regarded by customers and colleagues alike,” says Michael Schreyögg, Chief Program Officer, MTU Aero Engines. During Koppers tenure, MTU Maintenance’s yearly sales volume has tripled and many key campaigns have been won. “Leo has been a remarkable leader and, as a talented salesman bringing in around 25 billion in deals, a tremendous asset to the company. Together with his team he set major cornerstones for the future growth of our MRO business. We wish Leo the very best for his retirement years.”

Koppers successor, Martin Friis-Petersen, has been the Managing Director of MTU Maintenance Lease Services B.V. since 2014. Friis-Petersen joined MTU in 1999 and has held various leadership roles throughout the company, including as Chief Financial Officer of MTU Maintenance Zhuhai and SVP MRO Operations at MTU Maintenance Hannover. “We are delighted that Martin Friis-Petersen will be following in the footsteps of Leo as SVP MRO Programs. He has demonstrated a strong ability to build and grow business, create innovative solutions in anticipation of market needs, and put customers in the center of all he does. Through this experience and a total of over 20 years in the aviation industry, we are confident he will help MTU’s MRO division realize the next stage of growth,” Schreyögg adds.

AVIATION UPDATE

APPOINTMENTS

ANNE RIGAIL APPOINTED CEO OF AIR FRANCE

ubsequent to the proposal of Benjamin Smith, CEO Air France-KLM, and the approval of the Air France-KLM Board of Directors, the Air France Board of Directors has appointed Anne Rigail as CEO of Air France, following their meeting on December 12, 2018. Previously EVP Customer at Air France, Anne Rigail will assume her new role as CEO Air France on December 17, 2018, and will replace Benjamin Smith, who was appointed acting CEO of Air France through the end of 2018. “I would like to thank Benjamin Smith for the outstanding work he has accomplished during his time as acting CEO Air France,” said Anne-Marie Couderc, Chairwoman of the Air France-KLM Board of Directors. “Under his leadership, our airline has rapidly taken decisive steps, renewing constructive social dialogue, and proposing a new executive governance structure as seen with the arrival of Anne Rigail. I wish Anne every success in her new position, for the benefit of both Air France and the Air France-KLM Group. I am very pleased that she has accepted this very exciting new challenge." “I am delighted that Anne Rigail is to become the new CEO of Air France,” said Benjamin Smith. “Anne is a strong professional in the airline industry. Throughout her career, she has always paid particular attention to employees while implementing the many projects and transformations she has led, and placed the customer at the heart of everything she does. With the support and commitment of every single employee, I am confident we can rise to the challenges for Air France today, ensuring service excellence to all our customers. I have complete faith that Anne will succeed in transforming Air France. Together with Pieter Elbers, President and CEO of KLM, the Air France-KLM Group is taking an important step in its reorganisation to reconquer its market position."

AIRBUS APPOINTS PHILIPPE MHUN CHIEF PROGRAMMES & SERVICES OFFICER

service fleet of more than 10,500 Airbus planes worldwide. We are deeply grateful to Didier for his contribution to Airbus and we wish him an enjoyable next programme of rest and recreation.”

Evrard has been responsible for all of Airbus’ commercial aircraft programmes since 2015 and prior to this he led the A350 XWB programme from 2007. He started his career in 1977 as a test engineer for Matra. In 1998, he became Matra BAe Dynamics (MBD) Stand-Off Programme Director where he led the Storm Shadow/SCALP Programme. In 2003, he became Head of MBDA France and led the integration of MBD France and Aérospatiale Matra Missiles and later took over responsibility for all MBDA missile programmes.

irbus SE has appointed Philippe Mhun, 56, as Chief Programmes and Services Officer for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, effective 01 January 2019. Mhun, currently Head of Customer Services at Airbus, will succeed EVP Head of Programmes Didier Evrard, 65, who retires around the turn of the year after 41 years associated with Airbus, 20 of those in top management positions. “Supporting our customers with the most compelling product family while offering tailored services for their fleet - this is at the heart of Airbus and Philippe Mhun,” said Guillaume Faury, President Airbus Commercial Aircraft. ”With Philippe we are pleased to see those winning competences so nicely combined. His outstanding airline experience and customer mindset, his

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significant industrial and services expertise will surely provide a strong foundation for his future leadership.” “Didier Evrard is the programme manager “par excellence”,” said Tom Enders, Airbus Chief Executive Officer. “It is largely thanks to his meticulous programme management skills and dogged determination that the A350 XWB, affectionately known as “mission impossible” in its early stages of development, has today become the widebody of choice for 45 of the world’s leading airlines, entering service in 2015 at an unmatched level of maturity in our industry. Didier went on to become Airbus’ Head of Programmes, leading the teams who have brought so many incremental developments to our customers and who support an in-

Philippe Mhun will report to Guillaume Faury, who is due to succeed Tom Enders as Airbus CEO following the Airbus Annual General Meeting on 10 April 2019. Mhun will also become a Member of the Airbus Executive Committee.

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special interview

SCOTT NEAL, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT,

WORLDWIDE SALES, GULFSTREAM WAS INTERVIEWED BY KARTIKEYA EDITOR OF AVIATION UPDATE MAGAZINE POST MEBAA 2018. 18

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AVIATION UPDATE

special interview

Our research and development teams are always looking products and services that would enhance the customer experience Gulfstream recently announced the Speed Record of G650 ER- that’s an amazing milestone, Congratulations! Future, Are there any more in the offing? Thank you. The G650ER is the bestperforming aircraft in the business-jet industry. This aircraft, unlike any competitor (certified or planned), provides 1,000 nautical miles more high-speed range utility. It also provides 500 nm more range at Mach 0.85 and 1,500 nm more range at Mach 0.90 out of high-demand, weight-restricted airports, such as Teterboro, out of which the G650ER made its speed record on the way to MEBAA 2018. The G650ER continued to break records after MEBAA as well and now has 83 to its name. Our research and development teams are always looking products and services that would enhance the customer experience. Right now, we are focused on serial deliveries of the G500, certifying the G600 and continuing to deliver the G650, G650ER, G550 and G280.

What potential do you see in MENA Region and the Asia Pacific region for your company? Gulfstream has a strong presence in the Middle East and the market has been consistent over the years. The G650 is very

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popular in the region, and we have seen a lot of enthusiasm for the G500 and G600 as well. Asia Pacific is Gulfstream’s largest international market. Deliveries in the region continue with our fleet in Asia Pacific growing by nearly 6 percent in 2017.

What is the feedback you got for G500? How Many orders so far you got for G500? We have seen a lot of enthusiasm for the G500. Customers around the world are responding well to the technology in the flight deck, the cabin comfort, the performance capabilities and the efficiency of the aircraft. We have had more than 50 orders for the G500 and have been consistently delivering the aircraft since September.

When can we expect the Gulfstream G600 Certification & its Entry? We have not announced any changes to the G600 certification schedule. Entry into service is set for 2019.

What are the major markets for Gulfstream worldwide? Order activity is strongest in the U.S., Canada, Europe and the Far East. The Middle East continues to be a consistent market.

What are the major challenges Gulfstream faces in the MENA Region and the Asia Pacific region market? Infrastructure challenges and airport accessibility present some challenges for operators in the Middle East and North Africa and in the Asia-Pacific region. More dedicated business-aviation airports are needed as well as more indoor hangar space, especially in the Middle East and North Africa, where the climate can be harsh during specific times of the year.

What are the key differences you notice in the MENA market vis-à-vis other countries in the Asia-Pacific region? We really do not see drastic differences in what our customers want around the world. They want high-performing, reliable and comfortable aircraft that will help them expand their businesses, and that is what Gulfstream provides.

What’s your wish list for the year 2019? In 2019, I look forward to continuing to deliver Gulfstream aircraft to our customers around the world, including the flagship G650ER and all-new G500 and G600.

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2019

cover story

Indian Aviation 2018- Retrospect The Indian civil aviation industry has emerged as one of the fastest growing industries in the country in the past three years. India is currently positioned as the third largest domestic civil aviation market in the world and it is expected to become the world’s largest domestic civil aviation market in the next 10 to 15 years.

Promising Statistics Market Size India’s passenger traffic grew at 16.52 per cent year on year (YoY) to reach 308.75

million. Domestic passenger traffic grew YoY by 18.28 per cent to reach 243 million in FY18 wherein International passenger grew YoY by 10.43 per cent to reach 65.48 million in FY18. In FY18, domestic freight traffic stood at 1,213.06 million tonnes,

while international freight traffic was at 2,143.97 million tonnes. India’s domestic and international aircraft movements grew 14.40 per cent YoY and 9.40 per cent YoY to 1,886.63 thousand and 437.93 thousand during 2017-18, respectively. As of May 2018, there are nearly 558 commercial aircraft in operation in India.

Investment According to data released by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), FDI inflows in India’s air transport sector (including air freight) reached US$ 1,658.23 million between April 2000 and June 2018. The government has 100 per cent FDI under automatic route in scheduled air transport service, regional air transport service and domestic scheduled passenger airline. However, FDI over 49 per cent would require government approval.  In June 2018, India has signed an open sky agreement with Australia allowing airlines on either side to offer unlimited seats to six Indian metro cities and various Australian cities.  The AAI plans to develop Guwahati as an inter-regional hub and Agartala, Imphal and Dibrugarh as intra-regional hubs.  Indian aircraft Manufacture, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) service providers are exempted completely from customs and countervailing duties

Major Initiatives in 2018 Some major initiatives undertaken by the government are: • Allocation to Civil Aviation Ministry has been tripled to Rs 6,602.86 crore (US$ 1,019.9 million) under Union Budget 2018-19. • The Government of Andhra Pradesh is to develop Greenfield airports in six cities-Nizamabad, Nellore, Kurnool, Ramagundam, Tadepalligudem and Kothagudem under the PPP model. • Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) has been launched under the policy

Milestones achieved in 2018: Kerala becomes the first state with 4 international airports:

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cover story

Kerala has become the first state in the country to have four international airports with the inauguration of the Kannur airport in Dec, 2018 and Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode being the other three. Speaking at the inaugural function, Prabhu said the commissioning of the Greenfield airport was expected to pave way for the state's overall development and prosperity, especially the northern region.

IndiGo becomes the first Indian carrier to have 200 aircraft in its fleet: With the addition of VT-IZI, IndiGo has become the first Indian airline to have 200 aircrafts in its fleet. Four new aircraft have joined the fleet, including two Airbus A320 ceo (VT-IKA and VT-IKB) and two A320 neo (VT IZK AND VT-IZI), taking the fleet count to 200 and number of deliveries to 226, IndiGo said in an internal communication.

AVIATION UPDATE

Air connectivity reaches Sikkim with Pakyong Airport The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi inaugurated the Pakyong Airport in Sikkim in Septâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;18 and it would greatly ease connectivity to Sikkim. This is the first airport in the Himalayan State, and the 100th airport in the country. On this occasion addressing a large public gathering the Prime Minister described the day as a historic one for Sikkim, and an important one for India. He said that with Pakyong Airport, the country has hit a century of airports.

Indian aviation market witnesses highest growth in May in Asia Pacific region India led the Asia Pacific region in posting the highest growth in air passenger traffic in May at 13.3 per cent. The growth in China in comparison stood at 8.3 per cent and South Korea at 8.1 per cent, said the Airports

Council International in its latest study released in August. It said the impressive growth showed by the Asian giants has led a situation of "disparity" in the region if compared with passenger traffic growth of Japan and Australia. The Asia-Pacific market as a whole posted a growth rate of 6.3 per cent, slightly higher than Europe at 6.2 per cent. North America, on the other hand, saw the traffic growth by 5.6 per cent.

Mumbai's T1 first terminal to offer automated check-in facility All the airlines operating out of T1 of the Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport (CSIA) are now on SBD facility, making T1 the only terminal in the country to have a fully-automated check-in system, Mumbai International Airport (MIAL) said in the release. According to MIAL, passengers can now use extended check-in facility at some of the hotels here. This facility is presently

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2019

cover story

introduced at hotels such as Sahara Star, Hyatt Regency, Taj Santacruz, ITC Maratha, Hilton Mumbai International Airport and The Lalit. This will help passengers save a lot of time and a hassle-free boarding. The integration of new technology allows the processing of a significant number of passengers to be decentralised from the airport and allows for better use of resources.

Boeing, HAL, Mahindra tie up to build Super Hornet fighter jet in India Adding a new dimension to the heated global contest to manufacture fighter aircraft in India, The Boeing Company announced a partnership with public sector Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and private sector Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS) to make the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in India. The partnership would come into effect if India were to select the Super Hornet in any one of two ongoing fighter procurements: 1> 57 “multi-role carrier borne fighters” (MRCBF) for the navy, 2> 110 multi-role fighters for the Indian Air Force (IAF). “Boeing is excited to team up with India’s only company that manufactures combat fighters, HAL, and India’s only company that manufactures small commercial airplanes, Mahindra”, said Pratyush Kumar, Boeing India chief, at the signing ceremony. The partners say they are still deciding where manufacture would take place, and are evaluating HAL’s Bengaluru’s facilities as one option.

the fastest growing airports in the world for passenger traffic. The ranking is based on the preliminary passenger traffic results for the most-travelled airports in 2017. "Delhi, the country's busiest airport for passenger traffic, grew by 14.1 per cent year-over-year at 63.45 million, pushing it up from 22nd to the 16th busiest airport in the world," the ACI said in the release. Even with this rapid growth in throughput, Delhi was also ranked first in Airport Service Quality for airports above 40 million passengers per annum along with the Mumbai airport. Besides, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai were also ranked among the fastest growing airports in the world with a year-over-year growth of 26.9 per cent, 19.6 per cent, 12.9 per cent and 10.5 per cent respectively during 2017, the ACI said in the release. Growing rapidly in relatively short period of time, India is poised to be one of the largest aviation markets in the world in the years to come, the

Jet Airways finalises deal for 75 Boeing 737 Max planes worth US$ 8.7 billion

Jet Airways has finalised an $8.7-billion deal to acquire 75 Boeing 737 MAX planes as the airline plans to launch routes and grow its market share. The Mumbai-headquartered airline and Boeing signed a purchase contract in April’18 and with this deal Jet Airways will have 150 737 MAX planes on order. Jet Airways has a fleet of 120 planes, which include a mix of narrow-body Boeing 737s, turbo-prop ATRs and wide-body Airbus A330s and Boeing 777s. The airline has 83 Boeing 737s, which it uses on domestic and short-haul overseas routes. Over the last few years, the airline's capacity induction had been modest in comparison to its peers, resulting in a decline in its market share. New orders will enable Jet Airways to strengthen its position. The airline's chief executive officer Vinay Dube had told reporters that in 2018-19, Jet Airways will be making a net addition of eight 737 planes and all of those will be the MAX variant.

Delhi and Mumbai airports ranked among best in world According to the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) ranking by Airports Council International, an association of the world’s airports, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) won the best award for the year 2017, for passenger service under the category of those handling over 40 million passengers per annum. and Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport scored the highest for customer experience in the same category.

Indira Gandhi International Airport enters into the league of world's top 20 busiest airports New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport has jumped six notches to break into the league of the top 20 busiest airports in the world for 2017 in terms of traffic volumes. The GMR-group-run New Delhi airport jumped from 22nd rank in 2016 to 16th rank, solidifying its status as one of

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AVIATION UPDATE

cover story

“In 2007, when we had taken over the complete operations, the ASQ score was 3.53. In 10 years, we have got it to hover around 4.99, out of a maximum 5,” said G VK Reddy, chairman, GVK group. In 2017, Delhi airport handled 63.5 million passengers. This makes it seventh busiest in Asia and among the top 20 busiest airports in the world.

Preview of the future of Indian aviation: India’s aviation industry is largely untapped with huge growth opportunities, considering that air transport is still expensive for majority of the country’s population, of which nearly 40 per cent is the upwardly mobile middle class. The industry stakeholders should engage and collaborate with policy makers to implement efficient and rational decisions that would boost India’s civil aviation industry. With the right policies and relentless focus on quality, cost and passenger interest, India would be well placed to achieve its vision of becoming the third-largest aviation market by 2025. The domestic carrier put together is expected to add about 1,100 aircraft in the Indian skies in the next 10 years. At present, they are

AVIATION UPDATE

operating about 600 aircrafts. India is also expected to displace the UK to become the third largest air passenger market by 2025. India’s aviation industry is expected to witness Rs 1 lakh crore (US$ 15.52 billion) worth of investments in the next five years. The Indian government is planning to invest US$ 1.83 billion for development of airport infrastructure along with aviation navigation services by 2026. AAI is going to invest Rs 15,000 crore (US$ 2.32 billion) in 201819 for expanding existing terminals and constructing 15 new ones. India will become the world's third largest aviation market around 2025 surpassing the UK, global airlines' body as per IATA as it projected total air passenger numbers to touch 8.2 billion in 2037. Releasing the latest update to IATA's 20year Air Passenger Forecast, the grouping also cautioned that growth prospects for air transport and the economic benefits driven by aviation could be curtailed if protectionist measures are implemented by governments. The Asia-Pacific region is projected to drive the biggest growth with more than half the total number of new passengers over the

next 20 years coming from these markets. The growth is being driven by a combination of continued robust economic growth, improvements in household incomes and favourable population and demographic profiles, it noted. "India will take 3rd place after the US, surpassing the UK around 2025. IATA Director General and CEO Alexandre de Juniac said a doubling of air passengers in the next 20 years could support 100 million jobs globally, adding that it is seeing a geographical reshuffling of world air traffic to the East. India plans to construct 100 new airports with an investment of close to USD 60 billion (about Rs 4.2 lakh crore) in the next 10-15 years, Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said Tuesday. Amid the country's domestic aviation sector recording double-digit growth for more than three years on the back of rising demand, the government is working on ways to bolster the infrastructure for the sector. "We have plans for 100 new airports to be built in India in the next 10 to 15 years with investments of almost close to USD 60 billion," the minister said at a conference.

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2019

MRO & ENGINES

Ramco Systems

continues to strengthen foothold in the U.S.

Defense space

lose on the heels of bagging an order from a leading Defense Contractor, global enterprise cloud software specialist Ramco Systems announced that it has secured yet another deal from a leading adversary air (ADAIR) services provider to the U.S. Defense Forces, to manage its fleet of fighter aircraft used for highly complex training fleet and Defense contract requirements. Ramco will implement its full suite Ramco Aviation Suite V5.8, covering modules for Engineering and Maintenance, Supply Chain Management, Safety & Quality, Flight Operations, integrated with Finance. Bundled with the latest features for Mobility, Hubs and Dashboards, Ramco’s next-gen Aviation suite will enable paperless operations across remote locations, thereby aiding clients’ rapid expansion plans. Interestingly, Ramco was positioned in 2018 Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Asset Management, which released recently. Ramco’s one stop solution will cover all functional areas in a single software, enabling the client adhere to defense regulatory needs. Ramco’s Offline Mobile capability will help the client manage remote operations with zero connectivity, thereby ensuring quick turnaround for aircraft induction and high availability of aircraft for critical missions. Commenting on the expansion, Virender Aggarwal, CEO, Ramco Systems, said, “After successfully addressing the Heli, Airline and MRO segment, we have entered the growing Defence industry with our comprehensive suite of offerings. There has been a quest for technological superiority in the Defense segment and Ramco with its Aviation and Maintenance domain expertise will aid organizations leverage disruptive technology to maintain dominance. We look forward to adding more such Defense leaders and strengthen our foothold in the segment.”

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2019

FL Technics opens a new warehouse in Singapore

L Technics, a global provider of integrated aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul services, has announced further expansion to Asia region by opening a new warehouse in Singapore. The operations started at the beginning of November 2018. “The decision to add a warehouse location in Asia enables the company to scale up with customers who are facing increasing time pressure for parts and material delivery fueled by the booming aviation industry and fierce competition in the region,” said Zilvinas Lapinskas, CEO FL Technics. Just recently, FL Technics together with CALC (China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited) and ARI (Aircraft Recycling International Limited) has launched a Joint Venture with focus on aircraft base maintenance in Harbin, China, to provide MRO services for aircraft targeting Asia and Europe regions. Earlier this year, FL Technics Indonesia, based in Jakarta, has received the FAA Repair station 145 certificate, which allows providing MRO services to aircraft registered in the United States.

Delta TechOps partners with Rolls-Royce to provide

worldwide On-Wing Care Services

elta TechOps has recently partnered with Rolls-Royce to provide worldwide On-Wing Care Services for various RollsRoyce Trent engines. "This collaboration with RollsRoyce expands our existing relationship and provides customers with round-theworld support from our expert field teams," said Jack Arehart, V.P. — MRO Services. Under this agreement Delta TechOps will provide engine line maintenance support services at remote sites for Trent 700, Trent 800, Trent XWB, Trent 1000 and Trent 7000 operators. The services range from entire engine removal and install, to video borescoping, fan blade changes and main gearbox replacement. "Delta TechOps intimately understands our goal of maximized aircraft availability, and we look forward to deploying their significant capability to support the on-wing needs of our growing Trent fleet around the globe," said Lewis Prebble, Rolls-Royce's S.V.P. — Customers. The Rolls-Royce On-Wing care network ensures the highest-level of service in locations that are convenient to its customers. On-Wing Care rapid response services maximize aircraft engine operational availability thereby minimizing potential impact to customer fleet schedules. In October 2015, Delta and RollsRoyce signed a formal agreement for Delta TechOps to become an Authorized Maintenance Center for Rolls-Royce engines. Under the agreement, the airline provides engine services for the latest generation Trent XWB, Trent 1000 and Trent 7000, in addition to the BR715, which had already been added to engine capabilities.

AVIATION UPDATE

MRO & ENGINES

Production Milestone for Pratt & Whitney GTF™ PW1200G Engine at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Aero Engines in Japan

ratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Aero Engines Ltd. recently achieved a significant production milestone on the Pratt & Whitney GTF PW1200G engine, powering the Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ), Japan's first jet aircraft developed by Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation (Mitsubishi Aircraft). The first PW1200G engine assembly was completed at MHIAEL facility in Komaki, Japan, and successfully passed Pratt & Whitney's production acceptance test. The first engine produced at the facility is designated to be used in the MRJ flight test program. These are important accomplishments on the road to PW1200G production readiness.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Aero Engines, Ltd. "We're gearing up intensely as we prepare for production by building the capacities and expertise we need to perform this critical work. Our facility is in the process of obtaining approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to produce these engines."

"Thanks to extensive and close cooperation with Pratt & Whitney, MHIAEL is developing a facility in Komaki to perform final assembly of the PW1200G engine powering the MRJ," says Katsuyuki Shimauchi, President & CEO,

"The assembly and test of the first PW1200G engine at MHIAEL in Komaki is a key milestone for the PW1200G program," said Graham Webb, Vice President, Pratt & Whitney commercial engine programs.

SR Technics and VAS

Aero Services expand materials supply program with the addition of airframe components

R Technics, a world leading MRO service provider, is pleased to announce an eight-year partnership with one of the aftermarket’s leading suppliers, VAS Aero Services. Under the agreement, VAS will provide aircraft components exchange and repair services for SR Technics involving multiple Airbus and Boeing fleets. The new partnership marks the first major material supply partnership with a non-OEM company for the SR Technics’ business unit Component Services. By covering service-level guaranteed exchange services, repair services, and leasing services, the collaboration will enable SR Technics to continue to provide cost-

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"We greatly appreciate our long-standing partnership and high level of collaboration with the MHI Group. Congratulations to the MHIAEL and Pratt & Whitney teams that ensured this achievement was successfully accomplished." The MRJ is Mitsubishi Aircraft's next generation regional jet, powered exclusively by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines. The MRJ aircraft is currently flight testing and Mitsubishi Aircraft anticipates the first delivery in mid-2020.

effective and reliable solutions to its airline customers. VAS has been supporting SR Technics in Engine Services for several years. The expansion of their collaboration into the Component Services business aims to leverage the strengths of both companies. “Our new partnership with VAS marks a transition in the way we provide services to our customers,” says Jean-Marc Lenz, Chief Operating Officer at SR Technics. “The signing of the agreement is just the first step down the path of streamlining our operations, retaining our competitive edge, and providing reliable and efficient component services to more airline customers in the future.” “VAS enjoys a very close and unique aftermarket material supply relationship with SR Technics, one that continues to grow and accrue benefits for both parties,” noted VAS Chief Executive Officer Tommy Hughes. “This logical next step – access to VAS’s comprehensive inventory of hundreds of thousands of airframe components and parts – means SR Technics can continue to provide industry-best levels of maintenance and repair services to their customers worldwide.”

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2019

CARGO

Lufthansa Cargo further expands digital offering

ufthansa Cargo is the world’s first cargo airline to make an application available for digital creation of the transport documents required for dangerous goods. The new DGD.online offering will strongly support shippers and can be used in equal measure for shipments sent via air, road and sea. The developers, using input from pilot customers, focused on achieving a very user-friendly application with validation and convenience features designed to add value. “With DGD.online, we are further expanding our digital offering and striving to make it as easy as possible for our customers and partners to use electronic services. In this way, we can

Agility to invest in Shipa digital platform

ogistics major Agility will invest $100 million over three years in Shipa.com, a digital logistics platform that lets businesses, entrepreneurs and consumers manage their freight, e-commerce, and urban deliveries online. “Shipa.com makes life easier through technology, whether you are a small business running your supply chain with a few clicks, or a consumer getting your shopping delivered with a few taps on your phone,” Agility Chairwoman Henadi Al-Saleh said. “Shipa.com makes logistics convenient, jargon-free, trackable, accountable and accessible.” Shipa.com’s service lines include Shipa Ecommerce, Shipa Delivery and Shipa Freight. Shipa Ecommerce gives online merchants access to some of the world’s fastest growing and most complex e-commerce markets. Shipa Ecommerce offers integrated freight, fulfilment, delivery and returns solutions across the Arabian Gulf with additional reach into the EU and Africa planned for the near future. Customers are cross-border

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2019

all leverage the potential that digitization has to offer and make air cargo handling even faster and more efficient in the future”, said Boris Hueske, Head of Digital Transformation at Lufthansa Cargo. Siemens Healthcare GmbH is one of the first users of DGD. online, having already accompanied all stages of the application’s development. “This new application fits seamlessly into our digitization strategy. DGD.online will have a lasting, positive effect on the productivity of our service delivery process”, said Markus Dess, logistics process planner at Siemens Healthineers. DGD.online can be used to, for example, generate electronically signed dangerous goods declarations and send them automatically, complete with attachments such as safety data sheets. Forwarders and other logistics providers can also be digitally integrated into the handling process, facilitating paperless cooperation. DGD.online is equipped for future use of eDGD. The integrated validation and convenience features can help accelerate processes and prevent costly errors.

retailers based in the US, EU and Asia, as well as regional merchants based in the Middle East. Shipa Ecommerce solutions are underpinned by easy-to-use digital integration: APIs and web interfaces such as checkout integration with customer portals, websites and apps. Shipa Delivery offers businesses and consumers on-demand same-day, next-day or cross-border delivery across the Arabian Gulf. The platform is accessible by mobile or directly integrated with its business customers’ systems, and provides solutions to optimise for speed, convenience, and affordability. Shipa Freight allows small businesses to get instant and transparent freight quotes, and to book, pay and track ocean and air shipments around the world on any digital or mobile device. Al-Saleh described Shipa.com as “Agility’s innovation arm,” accelerating the introduction of technology, development of new digital products, and the overall pace of change in both the parent company and the industry more broadly. “Shipa.com is the marriage of Agility’s logistics expertise and resources and the digital-first capabilities of the Shipa platform. It offers enormous value for our customers and brings new value to our company,” Al-Saleh said.

AVIATION UPDATE

CARGO

India marks double-digit trade growth in Q3 2018, says Maersk's trade report

ndia’s containerised trade with the world has grown 10 percent year-on-year, according to the Q3 trade report released by Maersk. Increasing competitiveness of Indian exports, coupled with improved demand in various destination countries, has propelled exports to grow at 10 percent year-on-year. The demand for India-made goods such as vehicles and mechanical appliances; as well as refrigerated cargo such as onions, meat, seafood and pharmaceuticals have driven exports. Simultaneously, imports have risen 9 percent year-on-year, largely dominated by a heavy inflow of paper, metal and white goods. Overall, the containerised market has displayed strength, with far less fluctuation compared to the previous year. Commenting on the healthy containerised growth, Steve Felder, managing director for Maersk Line – South Asia said, “The upward movement in global commodity prices, depreciation of the Indian

rupee and recent major shipping-logistics reforms such as liberalised cabotage policy and Direct Port Delivery are instrumental in supporting the export-import trade between India and global markets. With fast growing trade figures that are significantly higher than the estimated global containerised demand growth (which in fact slowed during Q3), coupled with strategic competitive pricing, India is emerging as a favourable trade destination for both advanced and emerging markets.” The United States, the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria have become significant export destinations for exporters from West India. While the exports from West India witnessed a contraction of 15 percent in Q3 2017, the exports increased by 10 percent* year-on-year in Q3 2018 on the back of high volume exports of India-made automobiles and machinery. On the opposite end of the country, rising demand for chemicals, metals, machinery and white goods have been driving import growth at 9 percent year-on-year for East India. Countries like the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and South Korea have been the leading import origins for this growing region. In terms of commodity trade, the high demand for pharmaceuticals, vehicles, metals and sea-food have driven the importexport trade in international markets.

Saudia Cargo extends its services to Calicut Airport

audi Airlines Cargo Company ( SACC ) has extended its services to its customers offering a cargo capacity of 60 tonnes a week to Calicut International Airport (CCJ) in Kerala, on the daily operation of Saudi Arabian Airlines passenger Airbus A330 flights- four flights from King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) and other three operating from King Khalid International Airport (KKIA). The move aims to meet the significant increase of demand for cargo services to the Indian Subcontinent, enhancing the company’s operations and logistics.

AVIATION UPDATE

The Indian pharma sector witnessed high export growth to North American nations in Q3 2018, doubling in volume. Strong demand from regions of Latin America, Africa and surrounding countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have pushed exports of India-made vehicles to grow 36 percent* year-on-year. Metal imports have increased 33 percent* year-on-year, on the back of metal scrap driving this growth into the North and West regions of India. With an eye on the upcoming year Felder said “Although the sector is looking at maintaining strong growth in the coming year, the logistics infrastructure - which is the backbone of the industry –needs to be strengthened simultaneously. The government is aligned to this objective, as we have witnessed a cluster of initiatives towards making India a global superpower, including – amongst others - the ‘Make in India’ campaign. The efforts to create a more pro-business, investor-friendly environment are clearly visible as the economy recently advanced 23 spots to rank 77th in the World Bank’s latest ‘Ease of Doing Business’ index. As the industry foresees and awaits the benefits of cabotage relaxation and streamlining of exporters' GST refunds, digitisation and blockchain technology in the supply chain infrastructure is set to transform the logistics industry in the coming years.”

Commenting on the new destination, Saudia Cargo CEO Omar Hariri stressed that the inauguration of the new route will support and bolster the firm’s presence in one of the most important sectors in Asia, moreover it will strengthen trade ties in line with the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030 as well as Saudia Cargo Strategy 2020. Hariri added that Saudia Cargo is doing its best to support the agricultural products and general cargo of Kerala region exploring every way possible to increase the export from the neighboring cities of Calicut. Saudia Cargo offers scheduled and charter services in a network covering Indian Subcontinent, Europe, Africa, Far East, and North America. It operates a fleet of different freighter aircraft (B747-8F, B747-400, and B777F) operating to many worldwide destinations in addition to ground handling and different logistical services.

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2019

CARGO

Transport Canada approves AEI CRJ200SF

he manufacturer has currently 45 firm orders and commitments for the CRJ200 SF Freighter. Back in 2016, AEI received the original FAA approval and in May 2018 the EASA approval. The approval in Canada now is yet another milestone for the airline.

Since the initial certification, AERI has delivered a total of 10 CRJ200 SF´s and plans to redeliver the 11th aircraft this month. The idea behind the freighter conversion is to extend aircraft life and therefore increase the overall value of aircraft assets. Robert T. Convey, AEI Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing said: “As a Canadian manufactured aircraft, there is of course great regional interest in the AEI converted CRJ200 SF freighter [...] There are many routes in Canada which make for a perfect fit for this freighter.” The AEI CRJ200 SF provides a payload of up to 6,611 kg (14,574 lbs.) to its customers. The specific payload however will always depend on the aircraft model. Over the course of the conversion, a 96” x 70” large Main Cargo Door will be installed to provide better efficiency. Moreover, an ANCRA Cargo Loading System will be able to carry eight 61.5” x 88” containers within the aircraft. This system proves that the aircraft is being utilized in the most efficient way. The CRJ200 SF is especially of interest for carriers that plan to fly regional cargo routes. The original CRJ200 in the passenger version was designed to serve in the regional aviation market as well.

IndiGo Selects Asia Airfreight Terminal to Handle Cargo

ndiGo has selected Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT) as its cargo handler in Hong Kong. IndiGo launched aseven times weekly A320 passenger flight between Bengaluru (formally known as Bangalore) and Hong Kong on 11 December 2018. Bengaluru is one of the fastest growing cities located in the southwest state of Karnataka in India. Known as the ‘Silicon Valley of India’, the city is the nation’s centre for information technology. The commencement of this air service further strengthens economic and trade ties, as well as provides a capacity boost for business and leisure visitors between India and Hong Kong. Mr. Kuah Boon Kiam, General Manager of AAT, says,“We warmly welcome IndiGo to Hong Kong and to AAT. Our companies have a lot in common with our mutual focus on reliability and value to the customer. Over the years, AAT has built up a strong reputation for handling airlines from India, and we will extend our fullest cooperation to IndiGo as they build up their cargo business in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region.”

JANUARY

2019

AVIATION UPDATE

DEFENSE & MILITARY

Elbit, Adani Inaugurate UAV Complex in India

dani Group and Elbit Systems formally opened a $15-million unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) complex in Hyderabad, India. The 50,000 sq. ft. UAV complex is the first

such manufacturing facility in India and the first outside Israel to manufacture the Hermes 900 medium altitude long endurance UAV. The facility would begin

operations by manufacturing complete carbon composite aerostructures for the Hermes 900 UAV of Elbit Systems used by customers in several countries. This would be followed by the manufacture of aerostructures for Hermes 450. The first aerostructure from the complex would roll out in March 2019. While the initial focus would be on exports, the objective of the 51:49 joint venture (JV) between Adani Defence and Aerospace and Elbit Systems is to become UAV supplier to the Indian armed forces. Thus, the JV intends to ramp up for the assembly and integration of complete UAVs at the complex, something Elbit’s executive vice-president Elad Aharonson estimated could entail an investment of $50 million. Bezhalel

(Butzi)

Machilis,

President and CEO, Elbit Systems, said, “This facility where the Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 – the most advanced UAV systems in the world – will be manufactured is in line with the Indian government’s strategic plan and enables us to share our extensive experience in defense systems and benefit from the dedicated Indian workforce.” Ashish Rajvanshi, head of Defence & Aerospace at Adani, said his company “aims to make India self-reliant in defense and aerospace systems and not depend on the US, Europe, Russia or any other nation. The first UAV could be rolled out next year. We anticipate to make four UAVs to start with, next year and will take this to 18 by 2020. We have already received a three-year supply order for UAVs.”

Indian Navy commissions fifth LCU

he Indian Navy has commissioned its fifth Mk-IV landing craft utility in a ceremony at Port Blair on December 19. The ship has been indigenously designed and built by M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

The LCU is an amphibious ship with its primary role being transportation and deployment of main battle tanks, armored vehicles, troops and equipment from ship to shore. These ships based at the Andaman and Nicobar Command, can be deployed for multirole activities like beaching operations, search and rescue, disaster relief operations, supply and replenishment and evacuation from distant islands. Commanded by Lt Cdr Abhishek Kumar, the LCU has a complement of five officers, 45 sailors and is capable of carrying 160 troops in addition. The ship, displacing 830 tons, is capable of transporting various kinds of combat equipment such as the main battle tank, T72 and other vehicles. The ship is fitted with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced systems like integrated bridge system (IBS) and integrated platform management system (IPMS). The remaining three ships of the same class are in advanced stages of construction at M/S GRSE, Kolkata and are scheduled to be inducted over the next year and a half.

AVIATION UPDATE

JANUARY

2019

DEFENSE & MILITARY

Successful Test Firing of LongRange Missile Agni V

gni V, a long-range surface-to-surface Nuclear Capable Ballistic missile, was successfully launched from a canister on a road mobile launcher at the Dr Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. The launch operations were carried out and monitored by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) in presence of Scientists from Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and other associated officials. All the mission objectives were successfully achieved. This launch comes after a series of successful launches of the missile. It further strengthens the country's deterrence capability, which has been developed indigenously by assiduous efforts of scientists.

Indian Navy accepts second JFD submarine rescue system

nder a £193m contract, JFD is providing two complete Third Generation fly-away submarine rescue systems to the Indian Navy, including Deep Search and Rescue Vehicles (DSRV), Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) equipment, Transfer Under Pressure (TUP) systems, and all logistics and support equipment required to operate the service. The contract also includes a 25-year all-encompassing maintenance support service. The equipment was designed, manufactured, integrated and tested by JFD prior to shipping to India, with the second system expected to arrive in country in January 2019. The system will be mobilised onto the rescue vessel in order to begin a full series of Sea Acceptance Trials (SATs), with JFD personnel remaining

JANUARY

2019

in country to work in close partnership with the Indian Navy to complete comprehensive training on the safe operation of the system. Giovanni Corbetta, JFD Managing Director, commented: “JFD is pleased to have successfully completed the delivery of the second advanced submarine rescue system to the Indian Navy. The Third Generation system represents a stepchange in real world submarine rescue capability, and has been specifically designed to provide a comprehensive and highly capable submarine rescue service whilst ensuring the system is as quick and simple to mobilise as possible to maximise the chances of a successful rescue. “Protecting the lives of submariners is the foundation

of our business, and our teams of experts have worked tirelessly to ensure the seamless delivery of all of the submarine rescue systems JFD operates across the globe, continually driving the highest standards in safety. We have invested significantly in the development of our Third Generation system, using our deep and unrivalled knowledge of submarine rescue to conduct an extensive research and development programme, developed against a set of well-considered and representative requirements. The active participation of the Indian Navy throughout the build, acceptance and ongoing trials of the two systems trials is key to conducting safe and efficient operations in support of submarine rescue to allow them the ability to respond

effectively to an emergency when a submarine is in distress.” Having completed comprehensive factory acceptance testing which was signed off by the Indian Navy, the second system has been delivered to the customer just eight months after the first system. All of the technologies utilised in JFD’s Third Generation system are proven in service, and whilst innovative in arrangement, the methodology is built on tried and tested approaches and therefore requires little shift in operating doctrine, existing procedures, training and crewing competencies. The Indian Navy formally inducted its first DSRV into service at a ceremony in Mumbai, India on the 12 December meaning that the Indian Navy has now joined a select league of nations with the capability to search, locate and provide rescue to distressed submarines. Chief of the Naval Staff for the Indian Navy, Admiral Sunil Lamba, commented: "The DSRV (induction) is a landmark event and it marks the culmination of years of focused efforts of the Navy in acquiring niche submarine rescue capability. With these capabilities, the Indian Navy has joined the select league of navies that operate such assets."

AVIATION UPDATE

DEFENSE & MILITARY

Schiebel CAMCOPTER® S-100 successfully demonstrates new COMINT and imaging payloads to Australian Army customer

chiebel, in cooperation with ELTA Systems and Overwatch Imaging, integrated two new payloads for an active army exercise. The Australian Army conducted a two-week activity with the CAMCOPTER® S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS) to gain further insights into future capabilities and payloads in support of Project Land 129-3. Specifically, they tested ELTA Systems' state-of-the-art ELK7065 Compact Airborne HF COMINT/DF 3D System during the first week, followed by Overwatch Imaging's gamechanging TK-5 Firewatch during the second week of the exercise. As the market leader in Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAS,

AVIATION UPDATE

the multi-payload capable S-100 offers a proven platform for military and civilian applications on land and at sea. It operates day and night, under adverse weather conditions and with a beyond line-of-sight capability of up to 200 km. The combination of the CAMCOPTER® S-100 and the ELK-7065 offers a remarkably flexible high-frequency (HF) communications intelligence (COMINT) capability that provides rapid spectrum exploration, analysis and detection of advanced HF communication signals in real time and with off-line analysis tools. Furthermore, it

is suitable to operate in harsh electromagnetic environments. "The ELK-7065, integrated on the CAMCOPTER® S-100 UAS, offers the essential capability of delivering time-critical intelligence in the most complex operational environments," noted Chris Day, Chief Technical Officer for Schiebel. "This is increasingly important for military, para-military and civilian applications." Overwatch Imaging's TK-5 Firewatch payload, which was tested during the second week of the exercise, bridges the gap between small drone mapping cameras and satellite mapping systems. The wide-

area multi-band land mapping with automatic small object detection enables regional-scale applications in real time with optimal resolution. It includes color, near infrared (NIR) and temperature-calibrated thermal longwave infrared (LWIR) sensors that operate at the same time, including simultaneous on-board image processing. Integrated on the CAMCOPTER® S-100, it becomes an extremely powerful asset for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Director General of Aviation for the Australian Army, Brigadier John Fenwick, commented that, "The lease of the CAMCOPTER® S-100 and its advanced payloads is an important activity supporting Army's understanding of UAS capabilities. We will continue to explore all options to keep the Australian Army at the forefront of new technologies."

JANUARY

2019

DEFENSE & MILITARY

Light Utility Helicopter Project Achieves Another Milestone

with other two Prototypes towards Certification. Based on the feedback from flight testing of PT1 and PT2, PT3 is built to the standard of deliverable configuration. Shri R Madhavan, CMD-HAL says, with this achievement, LUH is now close to production clearance and HAL is confident of meeting customer requirements of the Armed Forces. The successful completion of first flight of third prototype of LUH is a quantum leap and will soon replace the ageing fleet of Cheetah/Chetak, says Shri Arup Chatterjee, Director (Engg., R&D) HAL.

oon after flying at 6 KMs altitude recently, the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) project of HAL gathered momentum as the third prototype (PT3) made its maiden flight on December 14, 2018. The

chopper was flown by Test Pilots, Wg Cdr (Retd) Anil Bhambhani and Gp. Capt (Retd) M R Anand V M. The flight was flawless and this prototype would augment development flight testing in conjunction

GSLV-F11 successfully launches GSAT-7A

ndian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F11) successfully launched the communication satellite GSAT-7A from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. The GSLV-F11 lifted off from the Second Launch Pad at SDSC at 04:10 pm IST, carrying 2250 kg GSAT-7A and about 19 minutes later, injected GSAT-7A into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) of 170.8 km x 39127 km which is very close to the intended orbit. An ISRO team lead by Chairman Dr K Sivan, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) S Somanath, U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) Director P Kunhikrishnan, Space Applications Centre (SAC)

JANUARY

2019

Director D K Das, SDSC Director S Pandian, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) Dr V Narayanan and ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) Director T Mookiah witnessed the launch. Mission Director Mohan M and Satellite Director Killedar Pankaj Damodar oversaw the launch proceedings. Soon after the separation of the satellite, ISRO's Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in Karnataka took over the command and control of GSAT-7A.The satellite’s health parameters are normal. In the next few days, scientists at MCF will perform various orbit-raising manoeuvres, using GSAT-7A’s onboard propulsion system, to place the satellite in its final

The LUH is a 3-ton class new generation single engine helicopter indigenously designed and developed by Rotary Wing Research and Design Center (RWR&DC) of HAL. First flight of LUH PT-1 was carried on September 6, 2016 and the second Prototype flew on May 22, 2017. High altitude cold weather trials of LUH is planned in January 2019.

geostationary orbit. In his postlaunch televised address, Dr Sivan said the team has achieved another spectacular milestone by launching GSAT-7A. “In the last 35 days, ISRO has successfully launched three missions from SDSC starting with GSLV MkIII-D2 on November14, PSLV-C43 on November 29 and finally GSLV-F11 today. GSLV has successfully injected GSAT7A into a super synchronous transfer orbit,” Dr Sivan said. He said GSAT-7A is the heaviest satellite being launched by GSLV with an indigenously developed cryogenic stage. “The cryogenic stage of this vehicle has been modified to increase the thrust rate. GSAT-7A is an advanced communication satellite with a Gregorian Antenna and many other new technologies. The testing and realisation of this satellite has been carried out meticulously by

ISRO team. We have signed off year 2018 on a high and positive note,” Dr Sivan added. GSLV is ISRO’s fourth generation launch vehicle with three stages. The four liquid strap-ons and a solid rocket motor at the core form the first stage. The second stage is equipped with a high thrust engine using liquid fuel. The cryogenic upper stage forms the third and final stage of the vehicle. GSLV-F11 was the seventh flight carrying indigenously developed cryogenic upper stage. GSAT-7A is the 39th Indian communication satellite of ISRO to provide services to the users in Ku-band over the Indian region. Most of the functional requirements of the communication payloads and the other systems have been derived from ISRO’s earlier geostationary INSAT/GSAT satellites.

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AVIATION UPDATE

Gently close your eyes and relax. If needed, first do the Heartfulness Relaxation. Turn your attention inwards and take a moment to observe yourself. Then, gently make a supposition that the source of divine light already present within your heart is attracting you from within. Do this in a gentle and natural way. There is no need to concentrate. If you find your awareness drifting to other thoughts, gently come back to the idea of the light in your heart.

Meditation is often defined as thinking continuously about one thing. We often get stuck on this definition, however, and lose the real purpose of meditation. Meditation must reveal the true nature of that object upon which we are meditating.Such revelation comes not as thought but as feeling. Therefore, meditation is a process in which we shift from thinking to feeling. It is a journey from the complexity of mind to the simplicity of heart.

Meditation is beautiful when done before sunrise, because of the stillness at dawn. Start by doing it for as long as you can, increase the duration to 30 minutes and eventually up to an hour when you are ready to do so. Find a place where you can meditate without too many distractions, preferably at the same time and place every day. Turn off your phone and other devices, and prepare yourself by sitting comfortably in an upright relaxed posture.

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