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Reaching for the skies together At Wings India 2024, we are proud to showcase our commitment to Indian aviation and support for becoming Aatmanirbhar in aerospace and defence.

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Boeing’s new widebody 777-9 jet will touch down in India for the first time, for display at Wings India 2024 in Hyderabad, making it a spectacular show. Based on the most successful twin-aisle airplane ever, the 777-9 will be the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet.

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VOL 27 ISSUE 1 • 2024 CIVIL • INDIA’S AVIATION RESURGENCE • AIR INDIA: GROWING EAST AND WEST

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A WORD FROM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SP Guide Publications takes flight in 2024, marking 60 years of shaping the aviation landscape! We are eternally grateful to all who have been our companions on this remarkable journey.

Our gaze now, remains firmly fixed on the future. With unwavering passion, unrelenting vigour, and unwavering integrity, we pledge to continue serving the aviation sector with excellence, innovation, and a commitment to pushing boundaries.

As India’s economy experiences a surge, the civil aviation sector emerges as a pivotal force driving this growth.

This projected momentum is intrinsically tied to the industry’s anticipated growth from $10.89 billion in 2023 to $12.55 billion by 2028, reflecting a CAGR of 2.87 per cent over the forecast period. Amid, this exciting trajectory in the air passenger and cargo growth, India’s civil aviation show, Wings India is back.

The convergence of Government and Private Sector investments in infrastructure development becomes pivotal in sustaining this growth, propelled by rising household incomes, the emergence of low-cost carriers, increased FDI, and an expanding GDP. However, in the promising landscape, challenges arise demanding a strategic approach to navigate an array of obstacles. This issue looks back at the previous year for India’s commercial aviation and what to expect ahead in a report by Ayushee Chaudhary.

Air India’s developments have been among the most significant ones in shaping the landscape of the industry. Byron Bohlman looks at Air India’s transformation under TATA Group ownership. In addition to new aircraft orders, new facilities, cabin refurbishments, old aircraft replaced with B777-200s and -300s which now link Indian cities with a handful of American markets, the airline is expanding its intercontinental network, both eastward and westward. These new USA nonstops are just one part of Air India’s ambitious vision to build a truly global carrier and establish mega hubs at Delhi and/or Mumbai that link eastern and western hemispheres.

Ahead of Wings India, Salil Gupte, President, Boeing India talks to SP’s Aviation on Boeing’s role in the future of Indian Aviation. He shares some strategies, outlook, and contributions towards Make in India, and highlights Boeing’s upcoming Aerospace Park and more. Ryan Weir, Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for India, Boeing Commercial Airplanes also talks about building Atmanirbharta in MRO sector in India and shares how Boeing is working with suppliers, industry, and leading MROs to help establish India as a regional hub for MRO.

Air Marshal Anil Chopra talks about addressing the imminent pilot shortage that poses a significant challenge for the aviation sector, necessitating innovative and proactive solutions for Pilot training and Pilot retention. Forecasts now project that demand for pilots will outstrip supply in most regions globally in 2024, and India has a great scope to become a very efficient flying training centre, he adds. In a related report, Rohit Goel shifts focus and highlights some key features of the Top Full Flight Simulators (FFS) for commercial and business aircraft available today from leading manufacturers across the globe.

The landscape of business aviation has also witnessed a significant global evolution, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic. Over the last decade, the industry in India has undergone substantial metamorphosis, finally garnering the critical recognition it deserves. Despite noteworthy shifts in perspectives, policies, and infrastructure; grappling with persistent financial challenges poses a significant impediment for the business aviation industry to realise its full potential. Ayushee Chaudhary analyses the potential of the Business Aviation industry in the country.

All this and more in this issue of SP’s Aviation. Welcome aboard and we wish you many happy landings!

Meet us at Hall C, Stall No. 30 at the Wings India 2024, show in Hyderabad.

Owned, published and printed by Jayant Baranwal, printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt Ltd and published at A-133, Arjun Nagar (Opposite Defence Colony), New Delhi 110003, India. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, recording, electronic, or otherwise without prior written permission of the Publishers.

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INDUSTRY ANALYSIS

PROJECTIONS BY THE INTERNATIONAL AIR TRANSPORT ASSOCIATION (IATA) POSIT INDIA TO SECURE THE THIRD SPOT IN THE WORLD’S AIR PASSENGER MARKET BY 2030

INDIA’S AVIATION RESURGENCE The saga of Aviation in India is truly unfolding as the sector recovers from the challenges of the pandemic and takes flight towards prosperity by the end of this decade

PHOTOGRAPH: PIBCHENNAI / X

By AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY India’s civil aviation sector stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s rapid economic growth, experiencing robust recovery and unprecedented expansion after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This projected momentum is intrinsically tied to the industry’s anticipated growth from $10.89 billion in 2023 to $12.55 billion by 2028, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.87 per cent over the forecast period.

The Boeing Commercial Market Outlook 2023 further solidifies India’s aviation ascendancy, earmarking 90 per cent of the projected 2,700 new airplanes for South Asia in the next two decades for India. Forecasts from Boeing align with the aspirations for India’s commercial aviation market to ascend into the top three globally by 2041, trailing only China and the United

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States. The optimism is also substantiated by the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), which points to a fully recovered air traffic movement of 327.28 million in FY23, an impressive surge from 188.89 million in FY22. Projections by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) posit India to secure the third spot in the world’s air passenger market by 2030.

FACTORS FACILITATING INDIA’S AVIATION GROWTH The industry’s resilience is evident in the rebound of domestic passenger air traffic, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and showcasing the pent-up demand for travel. The convergence of government and private sector investments in infrastructure development becomes pivotal in sustaining this growth, propelled by rising household incomes, the emergence of low-cost carriers,

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INDUSTRY ANALYSIS

PHOTOGRAPH: PIB

PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI AT THE INAUGURATION OF NEW INTEGRATED TERMINAL BUILDING OF CHENNAI AIRPORT

Domestic Air Traffic Anticipates a Surge: India’s domestic increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and an expanding GDP. The burgeoning middle class, characterised by increas- air traffic is poised for a robust 15 per cent increase, reflecting disposable incomes, propels the demand for air travel both ing the industry’s resilience despite ongoing challenges. Condomestically and internationally. This surge benefits aircraft currently, the international air traffic aligns with CAPA’s promanufacturers, Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) pro- jections, aiming for approximately 70 million passengers by viders, and related service industries. Furthermore, the bur- year-end. Despite hurdles faced by the aviation sector, overall geoning e-commerce sector fuels the demand for narrow-body profitability is anticipated to converge with CAPA’s initial esticonversions, while the expansion of India’s electronics manufac- mate, indicating a projected $1.648 billion loss.

Profitability Dynamics: Full-service carriers are envisaged turing industry, especially in higher-value segments, amplifies cargo demand. The Government’s regional connectivity schemes to contribute significantly to this loss, with estimates ranging significantly broaden air travel access, making it more inclusive. from $1.4-1.5 billion, while low-cost carriers are positioned to India, recognised as a global manufacturing hub, emerges as incur losses within the $200-300 million range.

IndiGo’s Record Profit: A notable revision in the outlook a prime market for aircraft manufacturers, with airlines placing substantial orders to meet the surging demand for air travel. This for low-cost carriers’ losses is attributed to IndiGo’s exceptional profitability in the first quarter. enthusiastic response from the aviation IndiGo is on track to achieve a record industry aligns with India’s soon-to-be profit of $500 million, demonstrating largest population status, positioning it resilience even amid operational chalas an underserved yet burgeoning marIndia’s airline system, lenges stemming from Pratt & Whitket. Aviation advisory and research firm anchored by industry ney engine issues in FY2024. IndiGo CAPA India’s recent report anticipates also placed the largest-ever single resilient air traffic, reaching 155 million leaders like IndiGo order with Airbus, ordering 500 A320 passengers in the fiscal year 2023-24. and the Air India family aircraft, with deliveries from Despite unexpected challenges such as 2030 to 2035. the grounding of Go First and the lingergroup, has achieved Air India Group’s Expansion ing impacts of supply chain disruptions, stability, and a Endeavors: The Air India Group is the report underscores the industry’s duopoly of the two making substantial strides in expanrobustness. As the aviation sector steers sion, with plans to augment its fleet by through dynamic shifts and challenges, is expected to drive over 60 aircraft by the fiscal year-end.

India emerges as a beacon of growth, the Indian aviation This strategic growth encompasses Air beckoning stakeholders to navigate this India, Air India Express, and Vistara, burgeoning landscape with strategic market collectively propelling the total fleet size foresight and resilience.

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INDUSTRY ANALYSIS

PHOTOGRAPH: AIESL_MRO / X

toward the 300 aircraft mark. Air India also secured the largest aircraft contract, signing for up to 290 Boeing and 250 Airbus planes, including 10 777Xs, 20 787s, and additional options.

Ticket Prices and Fleet Grounding: A gradual normalisation of domestic and international ticket prices from post-pandemic highs has arrived, despite ongoing challenges related to the aircraft shortage. Over 150 aircraft belonging to Indian airlines are currently grounded, a number expected to potentially rise to 200 by March 2024, as highlighted by consultancy CAPA India in its mid-year outlook. The grounding situation, including the impact of Go First’s bankruptcy and supply chain disruptions, underscores the industry’s remarkable adaptability.

Stable Airline System and Competitive Dynamics: Amid these challenges, India’s airline system, anchored by industry leaders like IndiGo and the Air India group, has achieved stability, and a duopoly of the two is expected to drive the Indian aviation market. This stability is also set to catalyse heightened competitive dynamics between these two major airline groups, ushering in a new era in the Indian aviation market from 2024, according to insights from CAPA India. Additionally, the anticipated growth of Akasa Air and the potential revival of SpiceJet are poised to further contribute to the evolving competitive landscape in the domestic market.

­ otentially curtailing margins, prompting route exits, and instip gating fare hikes, thereby impeding sectoral growth. A potential remedy could involve bringing ATF under the GST regime at an optimised rate. In the short term, reductions in excise duty and Value-Added Tax (VAT) on ATF by central and state governments could provide immediate relief to airlines.

Financing, Infrastructure & Policies: As India prepares for an influx of over 2,700 new airplanes, the imperative for robust infrastructure and policies to sustain growth becomes evident. With lessors playing an increasingly pivotal role in India’s aviation landscape, the establishment of resilient

CHALLENGES IN INDIA’S AVIATION GROWTH In the promising landscape of India’s civil aviation sector, challenges arise THE FIRST MRO IN THE INDIAN SUBCONTINENT TO PERFORM HEAVY CHECKS ON BOEING 737 MAX amid rapid growth, demanding a strategic approach to navigate a complex financing mechanisms is crucial. One of the main infrastrucarray of obstacles.

Operational Constraints and Mitigation Strategies: ture challenges faced by the aviation industry in India is the Despite these ambitious growth plans, there are severe opera- need for adequate airport facilities. Another challenge is the tional constraints faced by India’s carriers. Out of a projected need for more runway capacity. As the number of flights and 789 aircraft, only 588 are expected to be operational by year- passengers continues to grow, there is a need for more runways to accommodate the increased end. Airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet traffic. Key challenges in this regulaare addressing these capacity shorttory framework include the need for falls by inducting aircraft on wet lease greater clarity and consistency in poliarrangements, with projections indicatcies, a slow pace of regulatory reform, ing up to 30 wet-leased aircraft operand a requirement for enhanced transating in India by March 2024. SpiceJet parency and accountability in the reguis facing serious financial woes, despite latory process. A more streamlined, which it was bidding for the grounded clearer, and efficient regulatory frameGo First (founded as GoAir). work is necessary for the industry’s Aviation Fuel Taxation Conungrowth and development. drum: A multifaceted challenge conBolstering MRO Capabilities: fronts India’s domestic airline industry Amid India’s burgeoning aviation fleet, in the form of high taxes on Aviation the necessity for robust MRO capaTurbine Fuel (ATF). ATF, constituting bilities becomes paramount. Ensuring a substantial portion of airline operataircraft safety and reliability demands ing costs—sometimes soaring to 40-45 substantial investments in MRO infraper cent—poses a stark contrast to structure and expertise, fostering not global counterparts where fuel costs only safety but also job creation and range between 20-30 per cent. These technological advancement in the elevated taxes strain financial viability,

The Boeing Commercial Market Outlook 2023 further solidifies India’s aviation ascendancy, earmarking 90 per cent of the projected 2,700 new airplanes for South Asia in the next two decades for India

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CIVIL

INDUSTRY ANALYSIS

across the country. Out of these, 12 Greenfield airports have been operationalised, three in 2023.

• Presently, 66 airports across the country are running with 100 per cent Green Energy.

• The country was facing an acute shortage of Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCOs). The Ministry, with the concurrence of DPE, approved the creation of 456 more posts of ATCOs in April 2023.

• DGCA has processed 23,908 flight crew licensing issues and renewal applications to date through the single window digital platform of eGCA during 2023.

• On November 19, 2023, airlines in India flew 4,56,910 domestic passengers. This was the highest single-day air traffic since the pandemic hit, marking a remarkable 7.4 per cent surge above pre-COVID averages-a clear sign of recovery and resilience in the skies.

• MoU between DGCA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) was signed in Brussels for technical cooperation in Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Innovative Air Mobility.

• In FY 2022-23, around `29.43 crores were disbursed under the PLI Scheme for Drones. The Drone (Amendment) Rules, 2023 now allow alternative proofs of identity for issuing Remote Pilot Certificates. There are 76 DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisations, and 8,680 RPCs have been issued till December 18, 2023, via the Digital Sky Platform.

• As per the National Civil Aviation Policy, 2016, Open Sky Arrangement AIR INDIA GROUP IS EXPANDING WITH NEW AIRCRAFT JOINING THE FLEET AND HOPE TO REACH allows unlimited flights over and above A FLEET SIZE OF 300 QUITE SHORTLY the existing bilateral rights directly to/ from six Indian Metro Airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru). In According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), 2023 2022, India entered into open sky arrangements with Malhas been an eventful year for them given the following dives and Canada, and with New Zealand in 2023. As of achievements: October 2023, India has open sky arrangements with 24 • 60 New RCS (Regional Connectivity Scheme) routes comcountries. menced in 2023; 154 New RCS Routes awarded under UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik); 12 new RCS routes com- • 137 Aviation Assets including 18 aircraft, 63 aircraft engines, and 56 ground support equipment have been leased by airmenced in North East craft leasing entities registered from GIFT IFSC as of Octo• More than 91 lakh passengers availed of the facility of Digi ber 31, 2023.

Yatra, and over 35 lakh users downloaded the app • To promote ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and enhance avia• 3 more Greenfield airports operationalised tion safety, the Aircraft (First Amendment) Rules, 2023 • 456 more posts of Air Traffic Controllers Created were officially notified on October 10, • 34 Directorate General of Civil Avia2023. Among the changes, the validtion (DGCA)-approved Flying Trainity of licenses for Airline Transport ing Organisations (FTOs) operating Pilot License (ATPL) and Commercial at 55 bases till November 2023 CAPA India is Pilot License (CPL) holders has been • DGCA issued an all-time high, of foreseeing a notable extended from five to ten years. Various 1,562 Commercial Pilot Licenses amendments have been introduced to • About nine thousand remote pilot 15 per cent surge in facilitate ease of doing business. certificates were issued through the air traffic for 2023With optimism throughout the year, Digital Sky Platform despite some turbulences, the Indian • India’s domestic air passenger traf2024, translating aviation industry is almost set for a fic touched record high to an estimated 155 smooth flight in 2024 and accelerate • The Government of India has so far million passengers its journey toward becoming one of the accorded ‘in-principle’ approval for largest aviation markets. SP setting up 21 Greenfield Airports

ILLUSTRATION: SP’s TEAM

aviation sector. Currently, MRO is decentralised, with critical segments contractually governed by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). While India handles line and hangar maintenance (constituting less than 20 per cent of total MRO expenditure), over 80 per cent is outsourced abroad, primarily for component and engine maintenance. The challenge lies predominantly in component and engine MRO, where significant spending occurs. Efforts to fortify India’s MRO capabilities, especially in components and engines, are imperative to support the burgeoning aviation sector, generate employment, and enhance technological prowess.

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CIVIL

AIRLINES

AIR INDIA IS UNDERGOING A COMPLETE MAKEOVER WITH A NEW BRAND IDENTITY AND NEW CREW UNIFORMS DESIGNED BY MANISH MALHOTRA IN ADDITION TO EXPANDING ITS FLEET WITH NEW AIRCRAFT

GROWING EAST AND WEST Air India Eyes Intercontinental Expansion

PHOTOGRAPHS: AIR INDIA

By BYRON BOHLMAN Air India’s transformation under TATA Group­ York JFK via London. It wasn’t until 1993 that the airline flew ownership continues at breakneck speed. In addition to new nonstop between JFK and Delhi when longer range B747-400s aircraft orders, training partnerships, new facilities, cabin refur- were added to the fleet. Those aircraft have since been retired bishments, and flight crew recruiting, the airline is expanding and replaced with B777-200s and -300s which now link Indian cities with a handful of American markets its intercontinental network, both eastward and westward.

The big three US airlines - United, American, Delta - have To the east, three weekly Melbourne-Mumbai nonstops commenced last month, the first direct service to link the two had mixed success in the Indian market. Their well-developed cities in 23 years. Those flights complement Air India’s current domestic networks tap into a diaspora of nearly five million daily Delhi-Sydney and Delhi-Melbourne nonstops for a total of Indians living in the USA. That huge market can travel on a handful of US flag carrier nonstopsor make one-stop connec32 Australian market frequencies per week.

To the west, the carrier also hinted that it is setting its sights tions to Delhi or Mumbai. Yet US airline frequencies pale in on new flights to the USA now that the first of 20 ultra-long comparison to the schedule, price, service, and convenience of range Airbus A350 AWBs has joined the fleet. The A350-900’s their foreign competitors.

18,000 km (9,700 nm) range makes it a likely choice to fly new nonstops rumoured to be under consideration between Delhi A STRATEGIC MOVE FOR A BIGGER SLICE OF AMERICAN PIE and Dallas, Los Angeles, and Seattle.

Competition from US carriers may not be the main driver behind Air India’s new USA routes. All three American airlines reduced frequencies or suspended flights during the pandemic.

WHAT’S BEHIND A PUSH TO THE WEST? Delta Air Lines has yet to resume flying the JFK-Mumbai Air India started serving the USA nearly 64 years ago with a B707 that flew three weekly flights between Mumbai and New route. American Airlines appears to have scuttled its plan to

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AIRLINES

Airlines flying India to US East Coast

India via DXB

India via DOH

India Nonstop

India Nonstop

India via AUH

India Nonstop

Boston New York/ Newark Washington Miami Orlando

Boston New York/ Newark Washington Miami Philadelphia

New York/Newark Washington

New York/Newark

Boston New York Washington

New York

Midwest

Chicago

Chicago

Chicago

Chicago

Chicago

–

Central

Dallas Houston

Dallas Houston

–

–

–

–

West Coast

Seattle San Francisco Los Angeles

Seattle San Francisco Los Angeles

San Francisco

San Francisco

–

–

Source: Airline Websites

launch Seattle-Bengaluru nonstops, even retrenching some international service from the Pacific Northwest city. Only United Airlines appears to be reinstating some flights, San FranciscoDelhi and Chicago-Delhi (starting late March) to supplement its current Newark-Mumbai and Newark-Delhi nonstops.

Air India, like the US airlines, faces more formidable competition from two Middle East carriers, both of whom fly to every major North American city.

NONSTOPS VS. EXCELLENT ONE-STOP CONNECTIONS Take a look at the route maps and schedules of Emirates, Qatar Airways and, to a lesser extent, Etihad, and you see daily nonstops from their hubs to the key business and leisure cities across the USA. Qatar and Emirates each serve 12 West Coast, Midwest, Central, and East Coast cities while Air India’s presence is limited to only three points – the New York/Washington corridor, Chicago, and San Francisco. Their frequencies and seat capacity means that, for example, Qatar Airways can offer a fast, 70-minute, seamless, online Doha connection between Dallas and Kolkata.

The origin to destination 20h 20m total elapsed travel time is impressive.

Although United and American can connect customers via their hubs to their Delhi and Mumbai flights, the Middle East carriers can route passengers on their intercontinental nonstops and then onward to 10 cities in India. Moreover, their multiple frequencies, value incentives such as free transit stopovers, quality in-flight products, frequent flyer programmes and partnerships, and service to secondary Indian cities from their hubs make them more attractive than connections with European carriers who may have strong US presence yet often only serve Delhi and Mumbai.

NEW ROUTE VIABILITY Air India’s rumoured expansion into the Central and West Coast markets, fills a hole in the carrier’s nationwide presence. It also gives the airline greater access to the country’s hightech regions where corporate travellers often pay higher airfares. That higher mix of premium revenue is essential to make the new route economics work. The airline’s investment in cabin upgrades is consistent with an objective to sell higher-yield tickets.

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Carriers like Singapore Airlines, Qantas, and United configure aircraft used on ultra-long routes with a high ratio of premium cabin seats. Air India’s 318-seat A350-900s will have 28 Business Class suites, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 264 Economy seats. Combined, the two forward cabins represent about 17 per cent of total aircraft seat capacity.

The A350s are pivotal to the success of any new USA routes.

The manufacturer claims its A350-900 cash operating costs average 13 per cent lower per seat than a similar-capacity B787-10 and 40 per cent lower than a B777-200 on a 6,000 nm flight. The per-seat cost for the larger A350-1000 is 25 per cent lower than a B777-300 on a 4,000 nm leg, according to Airbus. That cost advantage is essential since low-yield VFR fares are characteristic of the Indian market. Getting the right mix of fares should make for a viable operation.

THE TIME IS RIGHT TO GROW The stars seeming to be aligning in Air India’s favour.

US carriers don’t appear to be a major threat since they’re handicapped by their inability to use Russian airspace. On the Newark to Delhi sector, for example, United’s more circuitous routing adds 75 minutes to its nonstop travel time compared to Air India’s more direct track. That disparity can reach up to 90 minutes for some markets.

If the new nonstops to Dallas, Los Angeles, and Seattle are launched, they may help muffle the huge sucking sound from Air India’s Middle East competitors flowing Indian traffic over their hubs.

Air India’s Star Alliance membership expands its presence through partner codesharing in select markets. That additional feed helps fill both international and, equally important, domestic flights as the airline ramps up its network across India with new routes, new A320s and B737s, and more frequencies.

Any new USA nonstops are just one part of Air India’s ambitious vision to build a truly global carrier and establish mega hubs at Delhi and/or Mumbai that link eastern and western hemispheres. One day, the size of that hub could easily match that of Dubai or Doha with one significant difference - the UAE and Qatar don’t have a domestic market of 1.4 billion potential travellers. SP

Air India is eyeing new flights to the USA and considering nonstop routes, showcasing a strategic move for a larger share of the American market

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AIRLINES

IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL Air India’s new twin jets have the range to go almost anywhere, nonstop The range and payload capability of commercial ­aircraft have come a long way since Boeing introduced its B747SP (Special Performance) in 1975. Nearly 50 years ago, the quad jet’s 6,650 nautical mile range was considered ground-breaking. Today’s Airbus and Boeing twin jets can fly nearly 25 per cent farther. Thirteen to 15-hour flights are becoming routine. But Singapore Airlines’ daily SQ21 Newark to Singapore A350-900 nonstop clocks in at nearly 19 hours, a remarkable flight made possible by fuel efficiency, a slimmeddown, lighter-weight all-premium cabin configuration, favourable meteorological conditions, and the ability for everyone to be cocooned in a tube for nearly a full day.

The era of ultra-long haul flying is here. Qantas followed Singapore’s lead with its own Perth-London and AucklandNew York JFK nonstops, each with an elapsed flying time of some 18 hours. Air New Zealand also flies nonstop between its hub and JFK. Qantas likely still has its eye on operating Sydney-New York (8,646 nm) and Sydney-London (9,188 nm) nonstops one day, the Holy Grail of technical and marketing achievements for both the carrier and the aircraft manufacturer.

THE ECONOMICS OF CONFIGURATION. Not all carriers have the unique all-business and premium seat layout of Singapore’s uniquely-configured A350900ULRs dedicated to its New York routes. Notwithstanding the business profile of the New York market, the revenue generated from selling only high-yield fares is no doubt essential in offsetting the trade-off between reduced payload and greater range.

Yet most airlines have a typical mix of business and economy class seats on their ultra-long flights. Those t­raditional

layouts allow carriers to use their aircraft anywhere in their networks thereby maximising asset utilisation.

AIR INDIA GOES ULTRA LONG-HAUL How does India’s Flag Carrier Rank Among Ultra Long-haul Flights?

The country is almost geographically east-west equidistant to North America. While US carriers are currently restricted from overflying Russian airspace, Indian carriers have fewer limitations.

Air India currently flies 3 ultra long-haul USA routes – Bengaluru-San Francisco (nearly 18 hours,) Delhi-San Francisco (16 hours), and Mumbai-San Francisco 17.5 hours.)

The new generation of Boeing B787s and Airbus A350 AWBs brings more nonstops into range. Air India’s order for 40 Airbus A350-900/1000s and 30 Boeing B787s and B77Xs, which have range capabilities up to 9,700 nm, suggests more long-haul intercontinental nonstops may be in the cards.

Should Air India launch new rumoured flights to the US west coast and Midwest, these aircraft can easily ply those routes.

Delhi – Dallas 7,113 nm Delhi – Los Angeles 6,963 nm Delhi – Seattle 6,136 nm How does Air India Rank Today in Ultra Long-haul Flying?

As of December 2023, the airline’s Bengaluru-San Francisco B777 service ranks ninth among the world’s top ten longest commercial flights by distance. The carrier’s San FranciscoMumbai (7,305 nm) and San Francisco-Delhi (6,697 nm) sectorsplace further down the list.

Elapsed times, which include taxi in and out, can vary by time of year due to winds. SP —By Byron Bohlman

WORLD’S TOP 10 LONGEST COMMERCIAL FLIGHTS BY DISTANCE Rank

Carrier

1

Routing

Aircraft Type

Cabin Configuration

Nautical Miles

Elapsed Time Outbound

Inbound

SQ

Singapore to New York JFK

A350-900ULR

161 • C67 PY94

8,287

18H 05M

18H 35M 18H 50M

2

SQ

Singapore to Newark EWR

A350-900ULR

161 • C67 PY94

8,285

17H 50M

3

QR

Doha to Auckland

A350-1000

327 • C46 Y281

7,848

16H 15M

17H 25M

4

QF

Perth to London LHR

B787-9

236 • C42 PY28 Y166

7,829

17H 45M

16H 35M

5

QF

Melbourne to Dallas

B787-9

236 • C42 PY28 Y166

7,814

15H 45M

17H 50M

6

QF, NZ

Auckland to New York JFK, Auckland to New York JFK

B787-9, B787-9

236 • C42 PY28 Y166, 275 • C27 PY33 Y215

7,671

17H 50M

17H 25M

7

EK

Dubai to Auckland

A380-800

484 • P14 C76 PY56 Y338

7,668

16H 00M

17H 10M

8

SQ

Singapore to Los Angeles

A350-900ULR

253 • C42 PY24 Y187

7,621

15H 10M

17H 40M

9

AI

Bengaluru to San Francisco

B777-200

288 • C28 PY48 Y212

7,561

15H 55M

17H 50M

10

UA

Houston to Sydney

B787-9

257 • C48 PY21 Y188

7,470

17H 35M

15H 35M

Source: December 20, 2023 – Upgraded Points.com, ExpertFlyer.com, airline websites, gcmap.com

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 1 • 2024

11

INTERVIEW

BOEING

EXCLUSIVE

BUILDING SKIES, BUILDING DREAMS

PHOTOGRAPHS: BOEING

Salil Gupte, President, Boeing India talks to Jayant Baranwal, Editor-in-Chief, SP’s Aviation on Boeing’s role in the future of Indian Aviation

SALIL GUPTE PRESIDENT, BOEING INDIA

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ISSUE 1 • 2024

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INTERVIEW

BOEING

THE INDIAN NAVY CURRENTLY OPERATES A FLEET OF TWELVE P-8I AIRCRAFT. THE EXPANSION OF THE P-8I FLEET TO 18 AIRCRAFT ALONE IS EXPECTED TO INJECT APPROXIMATELY $1.5 BILLION INTO THE INDIAN ECONOMY.

Jayant Baranwal (Baranwal): What is Boeing’s strategy to capitalise the growth in the civil aviation market in India?

Salil Gupte (Gupte): Over a span of more than 80 years, Boeing has emerged as a reliable partner in India’s aerospace sector, playing a pivotal role in the country’s burgeoning commercial aviation industry while also contributing to the modernisation and mission readiness of the nation’s defence forces. Boeing’s business strategy is in sync with India’s vision of “Make in India” and “Skill India,” as demonstrated by its investments over time across manufacturing, co-production, co-development, skill development, and innovation. These strategic investments play a pivotal role in strengthening Boeing’s position as the largest foreign Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) sourcing from India and establishing it as the largest site for Boeing operations outside of the United States, both in terms of manufacturing capacity, engineering, and workforce.

Baranwal: What is the current outlook of India’s aviation market, and what are the projected plane requirements across all commercial types based on your forecast?

Gupte: As the world’s third-largest civil aviation market, India’s fleet is set to nearly quadruple in size by 2041 compared to 2019. The country is also projected to receive over 90 per cent of South Asia’s airplane deliveries, requiring over 2,400 new aircraft, while its cargo market is set to expand significantly, with the fleet growing from 15 to 80 airplanes by 2042, driving a $135 billion demand for commercial services. Boeing’s 2023 Pilot and Technician Outlook anticipates substantial demand in South Asia for 37,000 pilots and 38,000 maintenance technicians over the next two decades, primarily fuelled by India’s burgeoning aviation sector.

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Baranwal: How are you contributing to the Government’s MakeIn-India vision?

Gupte: Boeing leads among foreign OEMs, annually sourcing over $1 billion from 300+ supplier partners in India. Notably, over 25 per cent of these are Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) integral to our global supply chain, exporting critical components worldwide. Our strong network of Indian suppliers, particularly in the aerospace sector, has made us a leader in exports and underscores our commitment to fostering growth and leadership in Indian aerospace and defence through partnerships, including with start-ups. Some highlights are: • Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL): manufactures complex floor beams for the 787-8, 9 and 10 Dreamliners.

Boeing has awarded a follow-on contract to TASL, which has already delivered more than 33,000 beams to date.

• Mahindra Aerostructures Pvt Ltd (MASPL): awarded a contract for manufacturing and supply of the Boeing 737 inlet outer barrel components and subassemblies at the state-of-the-art MASPL facility in Narsapura.

• Wipro Infrastructure Engineering: manufactured and delivered strut assemblies for 737 MAX and Next-Generation 737 airplane programmes.

• Bharat Forge: manufactures a range of titanium-forged parts such as flap-track forgings for the Next-Generation 737 and forgings for the 737 MAX and the 777X. • Hyderabad-based Cyient: Supports critical design-engineering projects for Boeing airplanes, including 787 design and stress support.

• Motherson Sumi Systems Limited (MSSL): awarded a contract to manufacture and supply aftermarket moulded polymer parts for commercial airplane interiors.

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INTERVIEW

BOEING

SASMOS HET Technologies: has signed a contract to manufacture panels, shelf assemblies and electrical wiring systems for Boeing 767 and 767-2C airplanes.

Our joint venture with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) in Hyderabad, is a state-of-the-art facility that showcases our commitment to Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

TBAL manufactures aero-structures for Boeing’s AH-64 Apache helicopter, including fuselages, secondary structures, and vertical spar boxes for customers worldwide, including the US Army and for the six on order with the Indian Army. Additionally, last year TBAL began shipping began shipping the vertical fin structures for the Boeing 737 airplane.

PHOTOGRAPHS: BOEING_IN / X, BOEING INDIA

•

Baranwal: As India expects over 2,000 new aircraft, do you see the nation’s MRO infrastructure keeping pace?

What improvements do you think are necessary to bridge any existing gaps, and how would you evaluate India’s current MRO sector?

Gupte: To meet the burgeoning demand in the Indian civil aviation sector, India requires top-tier maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, as a significant portion of MRO expenditures currently flow overseas. The primary challenge lies in component and engine MRO, where the bulk of spending is concentrated. However, the arrival of new aircraft models that support local repair facilities is still a decade away.

Therefore, it is imperative to strengthen India’s MRO capabilities, particularly in (TOP) TATA BOEING AEROSPACE LIMITED (TBAL) MANUFACTURES AERO-STRUCTURES FOR BOEING’S components and engines, to support AH-64 APACHE HELICOPTER, INCLUDING FUSELAGES; the burgeoning aviation sector, foster (ABOVE) BOEING INDIA ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY CENTRE (BIETC) PROVIDES ESSENTIAL job creation, and advance technological ENGINEERING EXPERTISE TO BOEING’S DEFENCE, SPACE, AND COMMERCIAL SECTORS. expertise. India can leverage its skilled workforce, including experienced ex-servicemen, and robust instrumental in executing high-quality, advanced aerospace industry capabilities to provide cost-effective solutions while projects. They provide essential engineering expertise to Boemeeting rigorous customer standards. This effort aligns with ing’s defence, space, and commercial sectors, encompassing India’s aspiration to establish itself as an MRO hub for the re- everything from designing structures and systems to aiding gion, reinforcing the nation’s aerospace and defence landscape. in manufacturing processes, creating systems for aircraft testing, and delivering digital solutions to our airline customers.

Baranwal: Can you share details about Boeing’s upcoming Aero- In addition to this vital work, BIETC plays a pivotal role in space Park near Kempegowda International Airport in Deva- co-development initiatives for the Indian defence forces. Our nahalli? What key highlights can readers expect from this sig- teams engage in cutting-edge R&D across traditional and nificant facility, which is set to become one of Boeing’s largest emerging domains, including next-generation airplane health management, environmentally sustainable coatings, advanced globally?

Gupte: Boeing is investing $200M in a new 43-acre state-of- network solutions, and secure communications. These enthe-art wholly-owned engineering and technology campus deavours leverage state-of-the-art technologies such as Artifiin Bengaluru. This will be Boeing’s largest facility of its kind cial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Internet-of-Things, Cloud, outside the US. Our 5,500+ diverse engineers and technolo- Model-Based Engineering, and Additive Manufacturing to engists, from our overall strength of over 6,000 employees, at hance quality, safety, and productivity while advancing our cothe Boeing India Engineering & Technology Centre (BIETC) are development commitments. SP

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ISSUE 1 • 2024

www.sps-aviation.com

TRAINING

PILOTS

TO MAKE FLYING TRAINING MORE EFFICIENT, THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND OTHER TECHNOLOGIES IS BEING EXPLORED

STEERING A NEW COURSE Addressing the imminent Pilot shortage poses a significant challenge for the Aviation sector, necessitating innovative and proactive solutions

By AIR MARSHAL ANIL CHOPRA (RETD)

PHOTOGRAPH: LOFT DYNAMICS

Oliver Wyman forecasted in early 2021 that an impending pilot shortage was on the horizon. Then COVID-19 came and sent the airline industry into a downward spiral with disappointing forecasts. But the air travel demand recovered fairly quickly and now nearly 1.3 million fresh civil aviation professionals will be needed by 2032. However, there has been shortage of pilots for some years and forecasts now project that demand for pilots will outstrip supply in most regions globally in 2024, and continue to worsen over the next decade.

PILOT SHORTAGE STATISTICS According to CAE, a leading supplier of flight training services, the global population of active commercial airline pilots was 3,51,000 in 2023, and predicted a new pilot demand growth of 4.1 per cent every year. In June 2023 CAE further forecasted new commercial pilots’ demand of 2,52,000 by 2032.

This includes 91,000 for Asia Pacific, 63,000 for North America, 22,000 for South America, 44,000 for Europe, 28,000 for the Middle East and 3,000 for Africa.

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Boeing forecasts demand for 6,49,000 new commercial airline pilots over the next 20 years (2023 to 2042). Airbus predicts requirement of 5,85,000 new pilots in the period 2022 to 2041.

Shortage is predicted to be nearly 80,000 pilots by 2032. New pilots are needed both for growth and for replacement. CAPA analysis of these forecasts suggests that the annual intake of new pilots needs to be around 7 per cent to 9 per cent of the existing active pilot population.

SHORTAGE OF PILOTS INDIA As per an analysis in March 2023, India’s airlines had placed orders for at least 1,115 planes to be delivered over the next decade, with a bulk of them inducting after 2025. Typically, a narrow-body commercial plane flying on domestic routes requires 14-16 pilots, and a wide-body aircraft needs 24-26 pilots, as per industry standards. As bulk of India’s planes are narrow-body, even a conservative estimate of 15-16 pilots per plane means 17,000-18,000 pilots will be required over the next decade. That means around 1,700-1,800 per year. The

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TRAINING

PILOTS

DEMAND FOR PILOTS WILL OUTSTRIP SUPPLY IN MOST REGIONS GLOBALLY IN 2024, AND CONTINUE TO WORSEN OVER THE NEXT DECADE

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) registers only 600750 commercial pilot licence (CPL) holders every year. CAPA India estimates that 150-175 of the new planes will arrive in 2024, and would require 1,800-2,000 more pilots to fly them.

PHOTOGRAPH: FSTC

AGEING PILOT POPULATION The pilot supply issue can already be seen in the United States, where several regional airlines are cutting service and parking airplanes due to a lack of qualified crew. Generally, the mandatory retirement age of commercial pilots is 65. Pilots go through stringent medical checks every six months. Many pilots have to retire earlier due medical reason. Commercial pilots in multipilot aircraft can fly a maximum of 10 hours of actual flight time per day. This can be extended to 12 hours under specific conditions. Many pilots were released during pandemic with severance packages and they chose alternative professions. Due to less than required inflow, the average age of pilots is going up, and for US airline pilots in 2023 the average age was 51 years.

Supply of pilots from military will dwindle further when militaries switch to more unmanned systems. The transition for pilots from military to civil aviation in some countries, including India remains procedurally complicated. Many countries, especially in Asia-Pacific region are forced to employ foreign pilots.

EFFORTS TO BOLSTER PILOT AVAILABILITY AND STRATEGY TO RETAIN Airline industry is now putting significant effort to bolster the supply of pilots. This means attracting young talent to the sector and imparting flying training and the Air Transport Pilot (ATP) certification. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) data shows that pilot hiring is on the rise, but demand outstrips.

Increasing pilot training capacities and quality of training will also increase inflow.

Increased compensation and benefits (bonus), faster career paths, work/life balance, and greater awareness normally helps attract and retain pilots. An annual cost-of-living pay increase,

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ISSUE 1 • 2024

holiday bonus and modest retirement-fund match are other means. Some companies are giving raise twice a year instead of annually, while others are offering retention-pay increases. Some companies are even offering one to five-year bonuses related to retention. There are others who help team members by providing tuition reimbursement as they earn associate, bachelor’s and graduate degrees, as well as when they obtain higher rating.

A big factor is quality of life. Some airlines say when you’re not working, you can turn off your phone or not answer it. It is important to provide a reasonable way for pilots to enjoy important events with their family, such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and kids’ school events. This would mean a little higher staffing then the minimal that are currently employed.

Some airlines are now employing three pilots for each two-crew member aircraft. Regularly scheduled days off, in addition to vacation, are also important.

Finally, the airline operators have to assess their competition.

Try and understand where employees find value. Clearly communicate your retention plans to your staff. Offer creative compensation packages. Create and support reasonable work-life balance.

Help individual grow his qualification, and communicate more often on advancement path. Some conduct ‘stay interviews’ with their top performers to understand their employment needs and what fulfils their desire for meaningful work. Remember, people are the most valuable part of the organisation. They are also crucial for flight and ground safety. Accidents are either caused by human error, or humans are the final defence to prevent an accident. Lastly it is important to have good HR managers.

TYPICAL PILOT TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION There are many Government approved flying clubs and academies which impart flying training. The civil pilots’ licences include Private Pilot License (PPL), the Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL) and Airline Transport Pilot’s Licence (ATPL).

The PPL programmes equip aspiring pilots with the necessary knowledge, skills and flight hours to successfully operate

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TRAINING

PILOTS

AS PER FORECASTS, NEARLY 6,00,000 NEW COMMERCIAL AIRLINE PILOTS WILL BE REQUIRED OVER THE NEXT 20 YEARS

PHOTOGRAPH: FSTC

s­ ingle-engine aircrafts non-commercially, for personal and recreational purposes.

A candidate requires 200 hours flying experience to apply for CPL and 1,500 hours for ATPL. The pilot has to be above 18 years age, should have passed Class 10+2 or an equivalent examination with physics and mathematics, from a recognised Board/University. He should be medically fit as per DGCA specified requirements. He has to pass a written examination in Air Regulations, Air Navigation, Meteorology and Aircraft and Engines and Signals (practical) examination as per DGCA syllabus. The details of breakdown and type of flying requirements are stipulated by the DGCA. The pilots flying skills for the instrument rating, and proficiency in Radio communications would be tested. The license would have a validity period, and can be renewed after meeting the prescribed conditions.

FLYING TRAINING IN INDIA In India, all civil aviation training is regulated by the DGCA which has currently (2023) given recognition to 35 Flying Training Organisations (FTO) for flight training and seven (including one in Singapore) Aircraft Type Training Organisations for type rating. These are spread across most states. These are either government run or private institutions. Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), at Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, is a Central Government owned autonomous institution under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Among the other top civil flying training establishments is the National Flying Training Institute (NFTI) established in at Gondia, Maharashtra. It is a joint venture between CAE and the Airport Authority of India (AAI). Madhya Pradesh Flying Club at Bhopal has been training for long. Ahmedabad Aviation & Aeronautics Ltd is functioning since 1994. Flytech Aviation Academy was established in the year 1995 at Hyderabad. Chimes Aviation Academy is operating at Sagar, Madhya Pradesh since 2008.

The Rajiv Gandhi Academy for Aviation Technology, Thiruvananthapuram is a state government controlled institution. The

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Orient Flight School, Mysuru, has been imparting flying training for 28 years. The Academy of Carver Aviation Pvt Ltd. Operates at Baramati, Maharashtra, since 1995.

These training institutions operate a variety of aircraft and train for PPL, CPL, and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME).

The commonly used aircraft are Cessna 152, Cessna Skyhawk (172), Diamond DA40, Piper, Cirrus, Technam and the likes.

Hatsoff Helicopter Training Pvt Ltd is a joint venture between Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and CAE Inc at Bengaluru. They train helicopter pilots on AS365 Dauphin, Bell 412, and HAL Dhruv.

SIMULATOR TRAINING IN INDIA For CPL, DGCA expects among other requirements, not less than fifty hours of instrument time of which up to twenty hours may be on an approved simulator. The flying test shall be carried out in accordance with the syllabus prescribed by the DGCA, however, DGCA may allow such tests or part thereof to be carried out on an approved simulator for the type of aircraft.

Technology has allowed modern simulators to give a very realistic feel and conditions of actual flying. One can practice all cockpit procedures, including crew resource management (CRM); get a realistic feel of controls; get a realistic external view including topography and depth perception; carry out navigation and airfield approach procedures, and finally practise landing in various visibility conditions. Each training session is performed with a briefing and a de-briefing session with a qualified instructor, which allows you to maximise your time of learning while on the simulator.

Most major flying training institutions have simulator flying training facilities. Flight Simulation Technique Centre (FSTC), is a state-of-the-art pilot training centre, headquartered at Gurugram. It is India’s 1st standalone Approved Training Organisation (ATO) by DGCA and EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency). FSTC has eight fully operational level D simulators, covering different types of aircraft, and with presence at Delhi/ NCR and Hyderabad, Telangana.

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17

TRAINING

PILOTS

PHOTOGRAPH: IGRUA

INDIRA GANDHI RASHTRIYA URAN AKADEMI, THE PREMIER INSTITUTE UNDER GOVERNMENT OF INDIA SPECIALLY CREATED TO IMPROVE TRAINING STANDARDS OF PILOT ASPIRANTS

Flight Sim Centre based in Mumbai is an Indian registered base Cockpit Procedure Trainers for TB-20 aircraft, a Glass MSME company started in 2016. They manufacture A320/ Cockpit Procedure Trainer that can simulate eight different airB737/Cessna 172 Flight Simulator training devices and simula- craft from light single engine to advanced jets. They also have a tor parts. They also provide pilot flight training on A320 and Touch Panel Trainer for Boeing 737 aircraft.

Boeing 737 fixed based simulators.

Launched in 2013, CAE Simulation Training Pvt Ltd (CSTPL) MAKE TRAINING CHEAPER AND MORE ACCESSIBLE is a joint venture between InterGlobe Enterprises (IGE) and CAE Typically flying training qualification costs over $1,00,000 Inc, at Greater Noida. They have thirteen cutting-edge full-flight which has to be funded by trainees themselves. Increasing simulators with an annual capacity of 72,000 hours. CAE has the scholarships, grants and airline cadetships could reduce the world’s largest civil aviation training network, with 250+ full-flight financial barriers. The use of artificial intelligence and other simulators in 50+ training locations in some of the world’s most technologies can make pilot training more efficient. desirable destinations. Every year, CAE trains more than 1,35,000 pilots and graduates 1,500+ new pilots across its global network. WAY AHEAD CAE’s state-of-the-art training centres have capacity to train up to One way to ease to the pilot shortage problem is to increase the 1,000 pilots every year from CAE’s Aviation Academies in India. diversity of the recruitment pool. Women airline pilot’s numbers Located five kilometres from the new international airport at are growing, but still small, at around 4 per cent to 6 per cent Bengaluru, Bengaluru facility provides training to airline pilots on of the world’s airline pilots. 15 per cent of Indian commercial the Airbus A320 platform, and offers helicopter aviation training pilots are women, the highest for any country. They make great on Airbus Helicopters and Bell platforms. pilots and numbers must go up further.

CAE is also at New Delhi and Gondia.

Airlines must make conditions attracBombay Flying Club, The ELITE tive to retain pilots, through promogives a pilot full VOR / DME / ADF / ILS tions, and give loyalty incentives. In the simulator capabilities. Government Avilonger run, technological advances may The Airline ation Training Institute Dwarka, Delhi, lead to single pilot cockpits, and later industry is now has the globally used ALSIM 250 French even pilot-less cockpits. made simulator. This simulator allows A renewed focus on pilot quality of putting significant interchangeable Single Engine and life, a faster career progression timeline, effort into increasing Multi Engine operation console; changeand more job security would make their pilot training able simplex/complex analogue “six jobs more attractive. As the Generation pack” instrumentation; full glass cockpit Z is showing less interest in the induscapacities and with EFIS MAP, Full functional instructry, means aviation needs to relook at the improving the quality tor panel with touchscreens; realistic work environment. Lastly India has all weather and airport database; and aerothe potential to become a global aviation of training to enhance dynamic derivatives of different aircraft. hub. India has a great scope to become a the overall inflow of IGRUA, Amethi, has two Simulators very efficient flying training centre that skilled pilots for DA-40 aircraft, one Simulator for can provide international class training DA-42 multi-engine aircraft, two fixed at a much lower cost. SP

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ISSUE 1 • 2024

www.sps-aviation.com

TRAINING

SIMULATORS

FLIGHTSAFETY BOEING 737 MAX SIMULATOR

MASTERING THE SKIES — TOP SIMULATORS Elevating Pilot training to new heights with precision, realism, and immersive experiences through the cutting-edge world of Full Flight Simulators

PHOTOGRAPH: FLIGHTSAFETY INTERNATIONAL

By ROHIT GOEL Full flight simulators (FFS) for commercial and business aircraft are incredibly sophisticated machines that ­ replicate the flying experience of a real airplane in almost every way. They are used to train pilots on a variety of procedures and emergency situations, as well as to keep their skills up-to-date.

Here are some of the key features of full flight simulators for commercial and business aircraft: • Motion Systems: These systems use hydraulic or electric actuators to move the simulator cockpit in six degrees of freedom (up/down, left/right, forward/backward, roll, pitch, and yaw). This creates a realistic sense of movement that is essential for pilot training.

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•

•

•

Visual Systems: These systems use high-resolution projectors to display a realistic view of the outside world from the cockpit windows. The visual systems can simulate a variety of weather conditions, terrain, and lighting scenarios.

Flight Control Systems: These systems replicate the controls of a real airplane, such as the yoke, rudder pedals, and throttle. They are typically very precise and provide the pilot with realistic feedback.

Avionics Systems: These systems simulate the instruments and displays that a pilot would use in a real airplane. This includes things like the attitude indicator, heading indicator, and airspeed indicator.

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TRAINING

SIMULATORS

Software: The software that runs a full flight simulator is incredibly complex. It is responsible for simulating the aerodynamics of the airplane, the behaviour of the engines, and the effects of weather and terrain.

Full flight simulators are an essential part of pilot training.

They allow pilots to practice procedures and emergency situations in a safe and controlled environment. This helps to improve their skills and make them safer pilots. The world of full flight simulator (FFS) manufacturing is dominated by a few major players, each with their own strengths and specialties. Here are some of the leading manufacturers and their top simulators:

medical services, law enforcement, high-altitude, corporate, and other operations. All CAE 3000 Series helicopter flight and mission simulators feature CAE Tropos-6000 visual system with high-definition commercial off-the-shelf projectors and up to a 220-degree horizontal by 80-degree vertical field-of-view direct projection dome with full chin window coverage, and high-resolution databases tailored to helicopter training operations.

•

CAE INC. (CANADA) Considered the global market leader, CAE boasts a vast portfolio of FFS models for commercial, business, and military aircraft.

They are renowned for their innovation and emphasis on training effectiveness.

FLIGHTSAFETY INTERNATIONAL (US) A well-established name with a long history in pilot training, FlightSafety offers a variety of FFS solutions for both commercial and business aircraft: • Boeing 737 MAX FFS: This Level D powerhouse faithfully replicates the popular 737 MAX, known for its fuel efficiency and advanced technology. Immerse yourself in a 6-axis motion platform that recreates every nuance of flight, from

(LEFT) CAE 7000XR FULL-FLIGHT SIMULATOR; (RIGHT) FLIGHTSAFETY INTERNATIONAL GULFSTREAM G650 AIRCRAFT SIMULATOR.

PHOTOGRAPHS: CAE, FLIGHTSAFETY INTERNATIONAL

•

•

•

20

CAE 7000XR (Boeing 787 Dreamliner): This Level D marvel boasts a 6-axis motion platform that mimics every bump and breeze, while its 240° wraparound visuals paint a breathtaking picture of the world below. Advanced avionics react to your touch, replicating every button and switch with pinpoint accuracy. Train for engine failures, in-flight turbulence, and critical emergency scenarios – all within the safe confines of the simulator. The 7000XR isn’t just training, it’s an immersive experience that refines your skills and builds confidence for real-world flights.

CAE Challenger 650: Business jets demand precision, and the Challenger 650 FFS delivers. This compact powerhouse packs Level D fidelity into a streamlined design, perfect for smaller training centres. Hone CRM skills with realistic crew interactions, practice emergency procedures in a simulated high-altitude environment, and master the intricacies of business jet operations. The Challenger 650 FFS is passport to the world of executive aviation, equipping you with the knowledge and expertise to soar above the competition.

CAE 3000 Series: The CAE 3000 Series helicopter flight and mission simulator offers unprecedented realism for helicopter-specific mission training, including offshore, emergency

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•

smooth take-offs to dynamic landings. High-fidelity visuals paint a realistic picture of the outside world, while advanced avionics respond to your every touch. Train for engine failures, complex emergencies, and even the unique challenges of short-haul flying. The 737 MAX FFS is your ticket to mastering one of the world’s most popular aircraft.

Airbus 350 FFS: The FS1000 simulator features FlightSafety’s new Motion Cueing System, Vital 1100 visual system, and robust modular design. It offers tightly integrated computer hardware and software across subsystems which allows for more accurate and higher fidelity, and includes the latest multi-core 64-bit architecture and supporting realtime tools. It also features FlightSafety’s all new multi-function Instructor Operating Station and offers close to twice the amount of interior space as compared to previous models.

Gulfstream G650 FFS: Ascend to the pinnacle of luxury aviation with this Level D masterpiece. Experience the spacious cabin and intuitive controls of the G650, the king of business jets. Train for demanding high-altitude operations, practice emergency procedures in a simulated pressurised environment, and hone your CRM skills with realistic crew interactions. The Gulfstream G650 FFS isn’t just about

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TRAINING

SIMULATORS

f­lying, it’s about mastering the art of executive travel and exceeding client expectations.

L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES (US) Another major player, L3Harris focuses on advanced FFS solutions and offer high-fidelity simulator for various aircraft types.

RealitySeven FFS. RealitySeven flight simulators are full flight simulators (FFS) which means that they are among the most sophisticated flight simulators and are fully motion capable. These state-of-the-art full-motion flight simulators can simulate up to six levels of motion as well as realistic cockpit sounds, preparing pilots for realistic flight situations. This is achieved by calibrating the full flight simulators (FFS) using accumulated flight data. This way we can guarantee that the aerodynamics, flight control and ground handling characteristics reflect reality.

The RealitySeven includes digital electrical control loading and an electric motion system, reducing power consumption

emergency scenarios. The Reality H helicopter full flight simulator offers pilots an immersive experience with extremely faithful reproduction of their operational missions. The system incorporates Airbus Helicopters’ avionics and software suite, features the latest simulation technologies and can generate a wide range of scenarios to train pilots in realistic flight conditions.

TRU SIMULATION + TRAINING INC (CANADA) Known for their cost-effective and high-quality FFS solutions: ATR 42/72 FFS. Master the art of regional flying with this Level D maestro. Experience the unique challenges of short runways and low-visibility conditions, all within the safety of the simulator. Train for engine failures, emergency landings, and specific procedures unique to turboprop operations. The ATR 42/72 FFS is your passport to connecting communities and serving remote regions, one smooth landing at a time.

(LEFT) L3HARRIS FIRST FULL FLIGHT SIMULATOR; (RIGHT) ATR 72-600 FLIGHT SIMULATOR.

PHOTOGRAPHS: L3HARRIS, ATR

and providing high trainer availability for airlines, ensuring minimal operational life costs. The RealitySeven is based on a modular design, with common core elements independent of the aircraft type. It allows for different aircraft modules to be effectively ‘swapped’ out, as fleet or training business requirements change, without the need to replace the entire simulator.

Features: • One platform, multiple aircraft types • Maximum commonality between all devices • All modules are non-aircraft specific except for the cockpit • Swap the cockpit as your needs change • No need to replace the entire simulator.

THALES SA (FRANCE) This French company excels in FFS and their “Reality H” series is known for its immersive visual experience and realistic helicopter simulation.

Reality H Series (Helicopter). This Level D marvel replicates the unique flight dynamics of helicopters with a specialised motion platform that mimics every tilt and turn. Train for challenging hover maneuvers, master autorotation procedures, and hone your decision-making skills in simulated

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ECA (FRANCE) This French company may not be as widely known as some of the other manufacturers, but they have a strong reputation for quality and innovation.

ECA CR172/182 FFS. This Level D simulator replicates the popular Cessna 172 and 182 single-engine aircraft, making it ideal for pilot training at the initial and advanced levels. It features a 6-axis motion platform, high-fidelity visuals, and realistic avionics simulation. This simulator is known for its affordability and ease of use, making it a popular choice for smaller flight schools and training centres.

These are just a few of the incredible full flight simulators available from leading manufacturers around the world.

Each one offers unique features and training opportunities, catering to different types of aircraft and pilot skill levels.

Full flight simulators are a complex and expensive piece of equipment, but they are an essential part of ensuring the safety of air travel. Choosing the right FFS manufacturer depends on your specific needs and priorities. Researching the strengths and capabilities of each company, along with factors like aircraft type and budget, will help you make an informed decision. SP

ISSUE 1 • 2024

21

BUSINESS AVIATION

ANALYSIS

INDIA’S BUSINESS AVIATION SECTOR HAS EMERGED STRONGER POST THE PANDEMIC

INDIA’S EVOLVING BUSINESS AVIATION LANDSCAPE The Business Aviation industry in India has had its share of kinks and hopes but the necessity for the efficient transportation of goods and executives will lead to an increased reliance on private aircraft

PHOTOGRAPH: DASSAULT AVIATION

By AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY The landscape of business aviation has witnessed a significant global evolution, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic, and the Indian Business Aviation sector has been no exception. Over the last decade, the industry in India has undergone substantial metamorphosis, finally garnering the critical recognition it deserves. Its role as a driver of productivity and contributor to economic development is now more apparent. Industry advocates underscore the imperative for a robust framework to propel growth and channelise economic and social benefits throughout India. Despite noteworthy shifts in perspectives, policies, and infrastructure, grappling with per-

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sistent financial challenges poses a significant impediment for the business aviation industry to fully realise its potential.

In setting the tone for a comprehensive understanding of each stakeholder’s specific roles in Aviation, Group Captain Rajesh Bali, Managing Director of the Business Aviation Operators Association (BAOA), articulated during the seventh edition of the BizAvIndia conference held in Delhi earlier this year that a collaborative and balanced conversation is essential. He emphasised the need to comprehend each other’s roles effectively and foster more effective collaboration with regulators in the future. Group Captain Bali drew attention to a 2012 study

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BUSINESS AVIATION

ANALYSIS

which is hoping to see a rise. Business jets follow with the by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which second-highest share, succeeded by turboprops. predicted a year-on-year growth rate of 10 per cent for the first decade, followed by rates of seven per cent and an additional • The segmentation by region comprises North, South, East, and West. The western and northern regions lead in regfive per cent in the last five years, resulting in a total of approxiistered fleet numbers for business aircraft, with Delhi and mately 4,000 small aircraft. However, he noted that the number Mumbai witnessing the highest demand due to a concentraof operators has decreased from 137 to 103 since then, only tion of wealthy individuals, political activity, and reputable recently rebounding after a period of decline. hospitals. These regions serve as bases for numerous operaA report from Ken Research highlights challenges faced by tors and aircraft management companies, but the governthe business aviation sector, including high operational costs, ment’s regional connectivity programme is expected to alter complex tax structures, and business difficulties. Nevertheless, this situation in the coming years. recent positive growth is attributed to an increased number of High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) and fleet diversification. • When it comes to the competition scenario, the same report highlights that the market is fragmented with approxiContributing factors such as airport development, regulatory mately 100+ Non-scheduled Operators. Companies aim to changes, enhanced regional connectivity, industry leaders’ iniexpand fleet size, regional presence, and operational sertiatives, growth in the oil sector, and overall economic prospervices. In India’s business aviation market, multiple players ity have also played a pivotal role in driving demand. are engaged in fierce competition to secure their market The prevalence of private charters among HNIs, politicians, share. The sector features a diverse mix of both internabusiness executives, and their diverse applications, from oil tional and domestic companies providing services such as transportation to air ambulance services, has spurred a maraircraft parts manufacturing, aircraft management, charket revival. Major companies have responded by diversifying ter services, and fractional ownership. revenue streams, establishing internaFactors such as service quality, fleet tional affiliations, and upgrading their size, geographic coverage, and pricing aircraft, fueling market demand. Increstrategies are key drivers of competimental focus on infrastructure develoption. Amid steady market growth and ment, expanded company operations, The prevalence of increasing demand from high-netalbeit gradual regulatory liberalisaprivate charters worth individuals, corporations, and tions, and government acknowledgsectors like tourism and healthcare, ment have collectively contributed to a among HNIs, companies are strategically focusing gradual increase in market demand. politicians, business on improving customer experiences, Positive initiatives from the Indian executives, and expanding their fleets, and innovating government, aimed at attracting forbusiness models to gain a competitive eign investment across various sectors, their diverse advantage. have resulted in heightened demand applications, from oil for private air travel, particularly from foreign companies in manufacturing, NAVIGATING FINANCIAL CHALLENGES transportation to air information technology, and services.

IN INDIAN BUSINESS AVIATION ambulance services, Further market growth is driven by • Overcoming Financial Obstacles: has spurred a market business aviation companies expanding The expansion of the business aviation operations into Tier-II and Tier-III cities sector in India grapples with formidarevival across India. ble financial challenges, encompassing funding and regulatory intricacies.

Elevated acquisition costs, prolonged MARKET OVERVIEW break-even periods, and limited asset • According to the same report, India’s financing avenues act as deterrents to industry growth.

Business Aviation Market, categorised by revenue stream, Despite the potential inherent in the International Finanincludes Aircraft Charter Income, Maintenance, Repair and cial Services Centre (IFSC), regulatory constraints impede Operations (MRO) Services, Ground Handling, Aircraft Sales Indian banks from extending asset financing. Robust Commission, Hospitality Services (F&B), and Aviation Acadgovernment interventions, such as establishing funding emy. In the financial year 2022, Aircraft Charter Income pools or implementing comprehensive financing systems, dominated with the highest market share, as major players could provide a crucial impetus to the industry’s financial concentrated on charter operations and outsourced related resilience. services. MRO claimed the second-highest share, with Mumbai hosting over 80 per cent of the country’s MRO facilities. • Fractional Ownership Dynamics: The Indian business aviation landscape aspires to embrace fractional ownerGround handling, Aircraft Sales Commission, and Hospitalship for shared investment advantages. However, a lack of ity Services ranked as the third, fourth, and fifth highest revregulatory clarity currently obstructs the realisation of this enue streams in 2022. potential. The BAOA is actively advocating in this domain.

• Regarding fleet type, the market is segmented into HelicopDefinitive regulations would stimulate collaborative fundters, Turboprops, and Jets. Helicopters, covering almost half ing initiatives among companies. While leasing stands of the market share in fleet size for the financial year 2022, as a viable alternative, its feasibility hinges on untainted are highly sought after in India’s business aviation sector. funds and regulatory backing. The imposition of high Their flexibility makes them suitable for various purposes, taxes, exemplified by the 18 per cent Goods and Services including air ambulance, transportation, slung work, pilTax (GST) on aircraft leasing, contributes to a discernible grimage visits, and political use during elections. However, demand-supply gap. despite that this remains an under-tapped segment in India

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ISSUE 1 • 2024

23

BUSINESS AVIATION

ANALYSIS

INDIA’S EVOLVING BUSINESS AVIATION LANDSCAPE CONTINUES TO FACE CHALLENGES

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PHOTOGRAPH: EMBRAER

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Enhancing Maintenance Capabilities: A critical deficiency in the Indian business aviation sector lies in the shortage of MRO facilities, currently functioning at a suboptimal 15-20 per cent capacity. Although Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) present a promising avenue, their establishment grapples with formidable setup costs. Strategic connections between Delhi, Singapore, and Dubai could position Delhi as a global hub, optimising bilateral agreements and exploring innovative international routes. Leveraging Delhi’s augmented infrastructure becomes pivotal for fostering opportunities through innovation and collaboration.

Critical Policy Revisions: Initiating policy changes in pivotal areas such as GST, fractional ownership, finance, and MRO operations becomes imperative for driving industry expansion. A targeted emphasis on domestic development forms the cornerstone of a comprehensive strategy for holistic progress in the business aviation sector.

SOME ADVANCEMENTS GA/BA SECTOR • Acknowledging Industry Gaps: While industry stakeholders recognise existing gaps, there is widespread optimism about the substantial growth potential of the General Aviation/Business Aviation (GA/BA) sector in India. The government has proactively addressed critical aspects, including tax frameworks, management structures, and fragmented ownership concerns, aiming to alleviate costs and operational burdens for all stakeholders.

Dr Vandana Agarwal, former Senior Economic Adviser (Additional Secretary) at the Ministry of Civil

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­ viation (MoCA), emphasised key developments during the A 2023 BizAvIndia conference. Notably, the implementation of a revised MRO tax regime has been a pivotal focus, with a significant reduction from 18 per cent to five per cent.

• Infrastructure Expansion Initiatives: The BAOA has collaborated with the government to enhance infrastructure, particularly FBOs. A significant milestone in this direction was the inauguration of Delhi’s exclusive General Aviation terminal in 2020. Designed for Code-C type aircraft, the terminal spans 4.5 acres and includes four parking hangars, an apron, a fire-fighting system, operational offices, and restrooms. Plans involve covered parking, a mirrored second terminal, and additional hangars, presenting a substantial boost to India’s business jet operations.

• DIAL’s Vision for a Robust GA Hub: Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) is actively shaping the foundation of a robust GA hub. Key initiatives include streamlining the turnaround time for business planes, offering dedicated parking slots, implementing an online food booking system, providing premium passenger services, accommodating customised requests, and enhancing Promising support services for GA aircraft. These measures align to foster a conducive streamlined environment for GA operations. processes, including • Regulatory Progress and Engagement: The Directorate General of Civil single-window Aviation (DGCA) is intensifying colclearances and laboration with the industry to idenapprovals, GIFT City tify strategic initiatives. Progressive steps include reassessing thresholds for aims to facilitate smaller aircraft, Non-Scheduled Operafull currency tors (NSOP), and GA aircraft, demonstrating the regulator’s commitment to convertibility addressing industry needs.

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BUSINESS AVIATION

ANALYSIS

A POLICY FRAMEWORK FROM THE GOVERNMENT IS NEEDED FOR FRACTIONAL AIRCRAFT OWNERSHIP TO TAKES FLIGHT IN INDIA

mitment is expected to improve accessibility to smaller cities and remote areas, catering to the needs of business travelers seeking efficient transportation solutions. The thriving tourism and hospitality industry in India, serving both domestic and international travelers, positions business aviation as a critical facilitator for travel to tourist destinations and remote locations, fostering overall market growth.

• E-commerce and Logistics Dynamics: The burgeoning e-commerce and logistics sectors in India are pivotal contributors to the escalating demand for business aviation services. The necessity for the efficient transportation of goods and executives, especially for expanding operations in delivery and e-commerce companies, will lead to an increased reliance on private aircraft.

NAVIGATING THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS AVIATION IN INDIA • Anticipated Growth Avenues: The ongoing process of urban- • Future Growth Trajectory: As the number of air travelers continues to rise, there is an expected progression isation is set to propel the demand for business aviation, driven toward higher tiers of aviation. Business class passengers by the emergence of economic hubs requiring efficient and are expected to transition to private flying, further stimuflexible transportation solutions. The expected rise in High Net lating sectoral growth. The demand for smaller aircraft is Worth Individuals (HNWIs) in India, coupled with economic also poised to increase. The concurrent growth of airports, development, will significantly contribute to the increased utilicoupled with heightened global interest and activity in the sation of business aviation for travel requirements. Technologisector, positions business aviation for cal advancements in aviation, emphasustained development in the future. sising quieter and more fuel-efficient While India’s Business Aviation aircraft, will enhance sustainability industry navigates persistent financial and cost-effectiveness, appealing to The Indian challenges, the transformative underbusinesses and individuals opting for standing post-pandemic, bolstered private aviation. business aviation by government initiatives, increased • Government Initiatives: The Indian landscape aspires to demand from diverse sectors, and stragovernment’s dedicated efforts to embrace fractional tegic expansions, positions it for subenhance air connectivity, manistantial growth. Collaborative efforts, fested through the development ownership for regulatory clarity, and continued infraof regional airports and expanded shared investment structure development are essential regional air routes, are poised to elements for propelling the industry provide a substantial uplift to the advantages toward its envisioned potential. SP business aviation sector. This com-

PHOTOGRAPH: GULFSTREAM

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GIFT City as a Financial and Technological Hub: GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) emerges as a pivotal aspect, offering a global financial and technology hub.

Promising streamlined processes, including single-window clearances and approvals, GIFT City aims to facilitate full currency convertibility, with 18 trade entities registered for rupee trading. The presence of domestic and foreign banks, alternative investment funds, and major insurance companies, alongside a unified regulator named the IFSC Authority, underscores its significance. This initiative, with its unique features and regulatory support, is poised to shape India’s financial and technological landscape.

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ISSUE 1 • 2024

25

FALCON 6X

FACT FILE

DASSAULT 6X IS A GAME-CHANGER IN THE BUSINESS JET MARKET, OFFERING UNPRECEDENTED LEVELS OF COMFORT, RANGE, TECHNOLOGY, AND EFFICIENCY

A CLASS OF ITS OWN Passenger- and pilot-centric, the Falcon 6X reflects the next step in Dassault’s legendary aircraft heritage

PHOTOGRAPHS: DASSAULT AVIATION

By SP’S STAFF CORRESPONDENT The Falcon 6X integrates the best features from ­Dassault Aviation’s world-leading business and fighter aircraft expertise to create the longest-range jet in its class with unparalleled passenger comfort, maximum mission flexibility, and the most advanced cockpit technologies available.

The Falcon 6X is the most spacious, advanced, and versatile twinjet in the long-range business jet segment and sets a new standard for widebody comfort, with the tallest and widest cabin in business aviation. Measuring six feet, six inches

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in height and eight feet, six inches in width, the 6X is the first ultra-widebody purpose-built business jet in the industry.

CABIN SPACE & AMENITIES Dassault Aviation’s in-house Design Studio completely rethought and restyled the cabin interior. Their solution features flowing, uninterrupted lines that enhance the feeling of spaciousness. All that space translates to room for more personal productivity: for collaborating, for working and for

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FALCON 6X

FACT FILE

INTERCONTINENTAL RANGE: WITH A MAXIMUM RANGE OF 5,500 NAUTICAL MILES (10,186 KILOMETERS), THE 6X CAN FLY NONSTOP BETWEEN A WIDE RANGE OF CITY PAIRS, MAKING IT IDEAL FOR LONG-DISTANCE TRAVEL AND GLOBAL BUSINESS OPERATIONS

sleeping on long flights. There’s room enough to accommodate 12-16 passengers – with individual seating in three separate lounge areas. The extra width also means a 5-inch wider aisle compared to previous Falcons, for more elbow room and easier movement between cabin sections.

The Falcon 6X’s extra-large windows (30 of them) both brighten the cabin naturally and provide unprecedented views. Plus, it features an industry-first skylight that provides additional natural light in the galley area. Like the Falcon 8X, the 6X is the quietest cabin in the sky with interior sound levels below 50 dB. Cabin air is refreshed continuously and processed through hospital-grade HEPA filters. The 6X cabin comes with high-speed connectivity system solution ensuring seamless in-flight communications and high-speed access to Internet. The cabin also comes equipped with new in-flight entertainment and communications network technology designed to distribute crisp, high-definition audio and video content throughout the cabin.

SPEED, RANGE, FLEXIBILITY The Falcon 6X offers the longest range in its class and connects an impressive list of city pairs. Fly almost anywhere in the world and land at airports that are typically inaccessible to large business jets because of short runways or challenging approaches.

The 13,500 lb PW812D turbofan engine shares the proven, rigorously tested core technology used in Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower family of geared turbofan commercial engines, with improvements in fuel burn, environmental emissions, engine noise and operating costs for new generation, long-range business jets. The engine is SAF compatible up to 50 per cent and has routinely flown on SAF mixtures during the Falcon 6X flight test programme.

Dassault’s revolutionary FalconEye combined vision system is standard on the 6X, providing enhanced safety and situational awareness on approaches in darkness or poor weather.

The 6X is also the first Falcon equipped with the FalconScan advanced diagnostics system, which monitors and reports on 1,00,000 maintenance parameters. And as with all Falcons, it offers superior operating flexibility, thanks to its unparalleled performance on steep approaches to short runways.

Falcon models hold their value better than any other business jet. They retain up to 10 per cent more than their closest competitor aircraft over 10 years. Passengers not only travel in the most comfortable conditions they arrive at their destination refreshed and ready for the day. This aircraft, in

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SPECIFICATI0NS: FALCON 6X EXTERNAL DIMENSIONS Height Length Wing Span WEIGHTS Max. Takeoff Weight Max. Landing Weight Max Zero-Fuel Weight Max. Fuel Weight CABIN DIMENSIONS Cabin Height Cabin Width Cabin Length (excluding flight deck and baggage) Cabin Volume (excluding flight deck and baggage) Baggage Volume PERFORMANCE Range @ Mach .80 (8 pax, 3 crew, NBAA IFR reserves) MMO (Maximum Mach Operating) Max. Certified Altitude Takeoff Distance (MTOW, SL, ISA) Landing Distance (8 pax, 3 crew, NBAA IFR Reserves) Approach Speed (Vref) (8 pax, 3 crew, NBAA IFR Reserves) ENGINES & AVIONICS Type SL-ISA Thrust Cockpit

24 ft 6 in / 7.47 m 84 ft 3 in / 25.68 m 85 ft 1 in / 25.94 m 77,500 lb / 35,153 kg 66,200 lb / 30,028 kg 45,900 lb / 20,820 kg 33,800 lb / 15,331 kg 6 ft 6 in / 1.98 m 8 ft 6 in / 2.58 m 40 ft 4 in / 12.30 m 1,843 ft³ / 52.2 m³ 155 ft³ / 4.4 m³ 5,500 nm / 10,186 km Mach .90 51,000 ft / 15,545 m 5,115 ft / 1,560 m 2,440 ft / 744 m 110 kias / 204 km/hr

2 Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW812D 13,500 lb / 60 kN EASy IV

Source: www.dassault-aviation.com

­ ddition to outstanding flight safety and performance, proa vides double digit improvements in fuel efficiency and carbon emissions. EASA/FAA certifications for the same were received in August 2023. SP

ISSUE 1 • 2024

27

MRO

BOEING

BOEING SUPPLIER SPIRIT AEROSYSTEMS NAMES GMR AERO TECHNIC AS AFTERMARKET REPAIR PROVIDER IN INDIA

BUILDING ATMANIRBHARTA IN MRO SECTOR IN INDIA

By RYAN WEIR, VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMERCIAL SALES AND MARKETING FOR INDIA, BOEING COMMERCIAL AIRPLANES

PHOTOGRAPH: SPIRIT AEROSYSTEMS

Boeing is working with suppliers, industry, and leading MROs to help establish India as a regional hub for MRO India’s economy has shown remarkable growth in the last three decades, contributing 90 per cent of South Asia’s economic output and ranking among the top growth economies globally pre-pandemic. As the world’s third-largest civil aviation market, India’s fleet is set to nearly quadruple in size by 2041, compared to 2019. The country is also projected to receive over 90 per cent of South Asia’s airplane deliveries, requiring about 2,400 new aircraft, while its cargo market is set to expand significantly, with the fleet growing from 15 to 80 airplanes by 2042, driving a $135 billion demand for commercial services.

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Boeing’s 2023 Pilot and Technician Outlook forecasts demand in South Asia for 37,000 pilots and 38,000 maintenance technicians over the next 20 years to meet industry needs, driven primarily from growing demand in India.

To keep up with this growth, India needs top-notch MRO services, as a large chunk of MRO spending currently goes abroad. India benefits from a skilled workforce, including experienced ex-servicemen, and strong industry capabilities, allowing it to offer cost-effective solutions and meet high customer standards.

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MRO

BOEING

PHOTOGRAPH: BOEING

HOW BOEING IS HELPING KEEP MRO SPENDING IN INDIA Boeing India recognises the immense potential for MRO services in the aviation industry, both in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and worldwide. While there is a gap in component and engine maintenance in India’s MRO industry, Boeing is committed to addressing this need and supporting its customers in India. To expedite MRO growth, Boeing is taking several measures.

• For base maintenance, Boeing plans to leverage defence MRO and complex civil aircraft modification work to develop infrastructure and capabilities applicable to civil MRO as well. Aircraft original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Boeing do not actually control much of the repair intellectual property (IP) to perform MRO on components and engines — rather that lies with the Tier 1 suppliers themselves.

• Boeing is fostering collaboration between component and engine OEMs and Indian MROs. Boeing supplier Spirit announced a collaboration with GMR Group and Safran/ CFM, a Boeing engine supplier, to establish a full MRO facility in Hyderabad by 2025.

• For component and engine maintenance, Boeing aims for its suppliers to collaborate with local Indian MROs when component OEMs reach capacity at their foreign facilities.

• Furthermore, Boeing is introducing foreign MROs that already hold exclusive intellectual property rights to component repair – to Indian MROs, in the interest of furthering partnerships to execute such MRO in India.

This collaboration will facilitate the transfer of knowledge and enhance the overall MRO capabilities in India.

• Boeing’s engine partners have made progress toward developing engine MRO capabilities as well, with facilities coming up in the next couple of years.

•

AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) entered into a strategic agreement with Boeing for the MRO of Boeing 777 Air India One (IHoS) aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force and is also exploring collaboration in repair and overhaul of landing gear and other commercial common Next-Generation 737 equipment fitted on the Indian Navy’s P-8I fleet.

Additionally, Boeing built an MRO facility in Nagpur, which the company handed over to Air India in 2015.

BOEING AND THE FUTURE OF MRO IN INDIA Boeing has taken a leadership role in partnering with customers and local industry to set up MRO facilities in the region, while also providing engineering and parts services to directly support regional commercial airline customers. Today, Boeing has the highest number of MRO partners in India, working in both defence and civil aviation. Additionally: • Boeing is actively working to ensure maintenance training and certification for Indian MROs, partnering with regulators to enhance their capabilities and expertise.

MAJOR MRO PROJECT: BOEING INDIA REPAIR DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINMENT (BIRDS) Boeing recently spearheaded a large MRO initiaAI ENGINEERING SERVICES LIMITED (AIESL) ENTERED INTO A STRATEGIC AGREEMENT tive that is already bearing fruit. In 2021, Boeing WITH BOEING FOR THE MRO OF KEY PLATFORMS launched BIRDS, an in-country network and alliance of suppliers that envisions a competitive MRO ecosystem for engineering, maintenance, skilling, repair and sus- • Boeing is proud to be developing first-in-India MRO capabilities, collaborating with Air Works on Boeing 737 derivative tainment services of defence and commercial aircraft. aircraft and GMR Group on airplane cargo conversions.

This network aims to drive high industry benchmarks in India for maintenance and repair, platform availability, cus- • To support MRO operations in India, Boeing is investing $24 million in an India Distribution Centre to ensure timely tomer satisfaction, and to enhance quicker turnaround time. An availability of critical components for efficient MRO services. important aspect of the hub is training programs to increase skilled manpower by developing sub-tier suppliers and medium, • Boeing has invested in world-class MRO hangar infrastructure. For example, the C-17 MRO facility at Hindan Air Base small, and micro enterprises (MSMEs) to build high-quality is built to meet international standards. This infrastructure MRO capabilities in India. As part of the BIRDS hub: will not only support defence MRO but also has the potential • Boeing and Air Works collaborated to successfully complete for civil MRO operations in the future.

Phase 32 maintenance checks on eight P-8I aircraft operated by the Indian Navy (IN), showcasing a level of maturity • In a further effort to enhance MRO capabilities, Boeing is inviting leading foreign MROs to India to evaluate Indian MROs for and scale comparable to established global MRO hubs. component repair and to explore potential partnerships. This • Horizon Aerospace was awarded a Boeing contract for the exchange of expertise and knowledge should contribute to the MRO of key Boeing defence platforms in India, the P-8I growth and development of the MRO sector in India. operated by the IN, and the VIP 737 transport fleet operThese initiatives collectively reflect Boeing’s commitment ated by the Indian Air Force (IAF). It will enable value-creation for Indian defence customers locally through faster to supporting the MRO industry in India and fostering partturnaround, exceptional operational capability and readi- nerships to strengthen the overall aviation ecosystem in the country. SP ness on Boeing aircraft.

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ISSUE 1 • 2024

29

HALL OF FAME

RICHARD MCSPADDEN (1960–2023) McSpadden once wrote, “Flying has brought so much to my life – in many ways has been my life…. I feel a growing urge to give back, cast a wider net, and expose more people to this splendid experience that can change the trajectory of a life.

Every accident is lamentable. But when Richard McSpadden, the 63-year-old senior vice president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Air Safety Institute (ASI) of the USA died in a plane crash on October 1, 2023, it seemed particularly senseless. The ill-fated aircraft was a single-engine Cessna Cardinal 177RG owned by Lake Placid Flying Service.

McSpadden was in the right seat, which is usually not pilot in command in general aviation aircraft. And Russ Francis, former National Football League (NFL) player and long-time aviator, was in the left seat. The purpose of the flight that took off from the Lake Placid Airport was a formation flying photo mission for AOPA Pilot magazine. McSpadden, a former member of the United States Air Force (USAF) “Thunderbirds” team, had many years of experience as a formation pilot and would have taken over the controls for the photoshoot portion of the flight.

However the Cardinal, piloted by Francis, reportedly experienced a critical emergency shortly after take-off and turned back. Unfortunately, it failed to make the runway. Both pilots were conscious after the crash but died before they could be extricated from the wreckage. Later an observer on the ground reported that he had heard the engine shut down and then restart after about 10 seconds. How could McSpadden, a pilot so committed to flight safety, who had spent years spreading the message of general aviation safety, and whose incisive reports on air crashes had served to guide others on how to avert tragedy, have himself fallen victim to death by accident?

Richard McSpadden was born on June 9, 1960, in Panama City, Florida. He began flying as a teenager, inspired by his father who was also a pilot. His childhood interest turned into a flying career of over 5,000 hours on both military and civilian aircraft. Richard taught his son to fly and instructed his daughter to fly solo in the family’s Piper Super Cub plane. He served in the USAF for 20 years. A highlight of this period was his role as the commander and flight leader of the elite USAF Thunderbirds squadron that specialises in a gripping combination of formation and solo aerobatics. Flying in the No. 1 position in a General Dynamics F-16C Fighting Falcon, he led 126 public flight demonstrations. After his retirement from the USAF, he became a commercial pilot and soon acquired the certified flight instructor, multi-engine land, single-engine seaplane, and multi-engine seaplane ratings. He also worked in the field of information technology.

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During his tenure as leader of the ASI, McSpadden modernised the AOPA’s safety education facility by harnessing the power of YouTube. He introduced a special video series that focused on expanding pilots’ knowledge and skills and improving the general aviation safety atmosphere. It quickly became popular across the US. The general aviation community also came to know McSpadden through his monthly column for AOPA Pilot magazine, where he related interesting stories from his personal and professional flying days to spread the message of safety. In general, he promoted five safety principles: Take knowledgeable pilots, train them well, keep them proficient, have them fly reliable modern aircraft, and surround them by a culture that promotes good decision making.

Another very useful initiative was the Early Analysis series where McSpadden would use the ASI YouTube channel to try and analyse aircraft crashes, sharing known information and proposing possible safety measures to help other pilots learn from the mishap. This was helpful because official accident investigations could continue for one to two years before a final report was released and the probable cause determined.

McSpadden’s tireless efforts were largely responsible for strengthening the culture of aviation safety, making the present era the safest ever for general aviation in America.

Naturally, the aviation community in the US were stunned at the tragic demise of Richard McSpadden. If a highly experienced pilot so dedicated to safety could lose his life in this way, did this not show how dangerous all forms of aviation could be? Should not other pilots think twice before being so foolhardy as to defy gravity? However, it was not what McSpadden either believed or advocated. In one of his popular columns he wrote, “Flying has brought so much to my life – in many ways has been my life…. I feel a growing urge to give back, cast a wider net, and expose more people to this splendid experience that can change the trajectory of a life.” He only urged pilots to be well informed about the principles of flight safety and stick to them. Every column he wrote ended with his trademark call: “Go fly.” As Captain Jack Savage remarked in the aviation themed movie, Fate is the Hunter, “When your number’s up, why fight it, right? And if it’s not, why worry about it?” SP — JOSEPH NORONHA

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NEWS

DIGEST

CIVIL CAE SIGNS AGREEMENT FOR THE INTEGRATION OF FLIGHT OPERATIONS SOLUTIONS

APPOINTMENTS

AIR VICE MARSHAL S. SIVAKUMAR IS SENIOR OFFICER-INCHARGE ADMINISTRATION, WAC

On January 1, 2024 Air Vice Marshal S. Sivakumar took over as Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration (SOA) of Headquarters Western Air Command, New Delhi. Air Vice Marshal Sivakumar was Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Air Force Works) at Air Headquarters prior to the current appointment at Headquarters Western Air Command, New Delhi.

RTX ANNOUNCES NEW CEO

CAE announced at the Dubai International Airshow that it has signed a multi-year contract to provide its advanced Crew Management and Operations Control solutions to the Air India Group airlines.

As part of this wide-ranging agreement, in addition to the continued use of CAE’s Flight Planning solutions at Air India, CAE’s Operations Control and Crew Management solutions will be integrated at all Air India Group airlines, part of Tata Group, India’s largest conglomerate, which reacquired Air India in 2022.

Under the new contract, the existing Flight Planning agreement with Air India will be expanded to include CAE’s Crew Manager, Crew Access, and Recovery Manager Ops & Recovery Manager Crew, providing proven and comprehensive support for both Air India and the Air India Group airlines. These advanced digital SaaS solutions are flexible, configurable and scalable, to enable superior, end-to-end flight operations management and represent a key driver of digital transformation.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES ORDERS 108 ADDITIONAL BOEING 737 MAX JETS

Boeing and Southwest Airlines announced that the carrier is increasing its commitment to the fuel-efficient 737 MAX family with an order for 108 7377s. The new deal supports Southwest’s modernisation strategy and provides flexibility to expand its fleet. The 737 family has long served Southwest by helping fuel the airline’s continued growth. Southwest has placed over 300 orders for the 737-7, growing its orderbook to more than 500 737 MAX jets.

Once certified, the 737-7 will join the carrier’s all-Boeing 737 fleet.

The 737-7 has the longest range in its class, capable of flying up to 3,800 nautical miles and carrying up to 172 passengers. The enhanced environmental performance of the 737 MAX allows carriers to reduce fuel use compared to the

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In a planned leadership transition, RTX announced that President and Chief Operating Officer Christopher T. Calio will succeed Gregory J. Hayes as Chief Executive Officer from May 2, 2024. This is a long-planned transition. Chris was elevated to COO and President in March 2022 and was tasked with realigning RTX into three focused business units – PW, Collins and Raytheon. He’s also been driving operational transformation across the company, focusing especially on strengthening the supply chain, businesses processes and production performance.

BOEING NAMES STEPHANIE POPE AS COO

Boeing announced Stephanie Pope as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Boeing Company. In this newly created position, effective January 1, 2024, Pope will report to Boeing President and Chief Executive Officer Dave Calhoun. As Boeing COO, Pope will oversee the performance of the company’s three business units with responsibility for driving supply chain, quality, manufacturing and engineering excellence across the company.

BOEING APPOINTS CHRIS RAYMOND AS PRESIDENT AND CEO, BOEING GLOBAL SERVICES

Boeing announced Chris Raymond as President and Chief Executive Officer of Boeing Global Services (BGS). As President and CEO of Boeing Global Services, Raymond will lead all aspects of the company’s aerospace services business supporting commercial, government and aviation industry customers worldwide. BGS had 2022 revenue of $17.6 billion.

previous generation of airplanes. The 737 MAX is also quieter, creating a smaller noise footprint than older jets it replaces.

LANDMARK ORDER FOR UP TO 67 BOEING JETS

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines announced the carrier has agreed to order 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX airplanes with an opportunity for 15 and 21 additional jets, respectively. The

agreement, signed by Ethiopia’s national carrier at the Dubai Airshow, represents the largest-ever purchase of Boeing airplanes in African history.

Ethiopian is ordering the 787-9 variant, part of a Dreamliner family that reduces fuel use and emissions by 25 per cent compared to the airplanes it replaces. The carrier is also adding the 737-8 model, which reduces fuel use and emissions by 20 per cent and creates a 50 per cent smaller noise footprint compared to the airplanes it replaces.

Both families bring better environmental performance and passenger comfort to their respective markets.

The new commitment positions Ethiopian Airlines to further strengthen and diversify its fleet, which currently includes more than 80 Boeing jets. ­Ethiopian

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operates Africa’s largest Dreamliner fleet with a mix of 787-8s and 787-9s. The new 737 MAX order, which will grow the airline’s backlog for the fuel-efficient jet to 50, will be posted on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website when finalised.

a total fleet of 71 Airbus A320ceo and A321 neo-LR aircraft.

PORTER AIRLINES ORDERS 25 EMBRAER E195-E2S

SUNEXPRESS TO BUY UP TO 90 BOEING 737 MAX

Boeing and SunExpress, a joint venture of Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, announced the airline has again selected the 737 MAX to continue its robust growth. With a commitment to purchase up to 90 fuel-efficient single-aisle Boeing jets, announced at the Dubai Airshow, Türkiye’s leading leisure carrier will more than double its fleet into the next decade.

The agreement includes 28 737-8 and 17 737-10 models, with the opportunity for up to 45 additional 737 MAX airplanes.

Over the next decade, the airline will more than double their fleet, reaching a 150-aircraft fleet by 2033. Also, the addition of the 737-10, the newest 737 MAX plane with up to 230 seats, to the fleet will allow the airline to strengthen their capacity further. This new commitment from SunExpress will build on the airline’s previous order for 42 737-8s, nine of which have been delivered.

AIR ARABIA ORDERS FOR 240 LEAP-1A ENGINES Air Arabia, the Middle East, and North Africa first and largest low-cost carrier operator, announced a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to enhancing its fleet and operations.

Following a signing ceremony attended by senior executives from CFM and Air Arabia during Dubai Airshow 2023, the airline has announced the order for 240 CFM LEAP-1A engines to power its existing order of 120 Airbus A320neo family aircraft, including brand new A321XLR. The agreement includes a multi-year services agreement and spare engines.

The deal will support Air Arabia’s fleet growth and future expansion. The state-of-the-art LEAP-1A engines are set to propel Air Arabia’s existing order of 120 Airbus A32-neo family aircraft, which is comprised of 73 A320neo, 27 A321neo and 20 A321XLR airplanes which are scheduled for delivery in 2025. The company currently operates

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Porter Airlines has exercised purchase rights to place a firm order for 25 Embraer E195-E2 passenger jets, adding to their 50 existing firm orders. Porter will use the new aircraft to extend its awardwinning service to destinations throughout North America. The deal, valued at $2.1 billion at list price, will be added to the Q4 backlog, and brings Porter’s orders with Embraer to 75 firm, with 25 purchase rights remaining. Porter, the North American launch customer for Embraer’s E195-E2, has already taken delivery of 24 E195-E2s, and recently announced new destinations including Las Vegas, Miami, San Francisco, and Los Angeles; with destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean also planned. The aircraft are currently deployed from Eastern Canada, with a focus on Toronto Pearson International Airport and Ottawa. Halifax and Montreal are also seeing new services with the E195-E2. Porter has chosen to configure the 146-seat aircraft in a comfortable 132-seat all-economy configuration, with a variety of seat pitches on offer for their guests: 36, 34, and 30 inches.

EVE AIR MOBILITY COLLABORATES WITH FLEXJET

Eve Air Mobility has achieved a key milestone in the progression of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) through a collaborative partnership with global private aviation leader Flexjet. Together, the companies have conducted an initial software simulation of Eve’s cutting-edge Urban Air Traffic Management (Urban ATM) solution. The initiative validated and refined the software through user

testing and feedback on its interface and industry value.

With London being one of the world’s foremost helicopter markets and a key focus for future eVTOL operations, the simulation took place over four days at Flexjet’s Tactical Control Centre at Farnborough Airport, UK, and saw Eve’s Urban ATM software shadowing live helicopter flights operated by Flexjet’s UK helicopter division, performing the kind of services that will be essential to enabling future UAM operations.

EVE AIR MOBILITY AND FLYNAS SIGN MOU

Eve Air Mobility and flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the Middle East, announced the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the future of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations in Saudi Arabia. The partners will explore the possibility of starting eVTOL operations in Riyadh and Jeddah in 2026. The agreement will contribute to Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry by building and supporting the future local ecosystem for electric flights. The partnership will also contribute to the Vision 2030 sustainability goals and the ambitious targets in the aviation sector.

CAAS CONVENES MEETING ON SAFETY RULES FOR AIR TAXIS AND DRONES

The first-ever Meeting of Asia-Pacific regulators on Advanced Aircraft Mobility (AAM) and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), and an accompanying engagement with industry, convened on November 9, 2023 in Singapore. The meeting, initiated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), sought to foster collaboration amongst regulators, and between regulators and industry, to pool expertise and resources and to identify and mitigate risks to leverage AAM and UAS safely and effectively. The inaugural meeting was attended by 17 Asia-Pacific civil aviation authorities (CAAs) and 24 AAM and UAS institutes and companies.

CAAS initiated the Meeting of AsiaPacific Regulators on AAM and UAS to: a) raise awareness of new technologies and regulatory approaches and practices; b) facilitate alignment on regulatory approaches and practices; and c) support adoption of policies and regulations.

The CAAs will develop a set of reference materials which regulators can consider, adapt, and use to facilitate the commercial operations of AAM and implementation of complex UAS operations which will be ready in 2025.l

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